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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 29 Jul 2025 at 01:43 Created:
covid-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2), a virus closely related to the SARS virus. The disease was discovered and named during the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak. Those affected may develop a fever, dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A sore throat, runny nose or sneezing is less common. While the majority of cases result in mild symptoms, some can progress to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. The infection is spread from one person to others via respiratory droplets produced from the airways, often during coughing or sneezing. Time from exposure to onset of symptoms is generally between 2 and 14 days, with an average of 5 days. The standard method of diagnosis is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) from a nasopharyngeal swab or sputum sample, with results within a few hours to 2 days. Antibody assays can also be used, using a blood serum sample, with results within a few days. The infection can also be diagnosed from a combination of symptoms, risk factors and a chest CT scan showing features of pneumonia. Correct handwashing technique, maintaining distance from people who are coughing and not touching one's face with unwashed hands are measures recommended to prevent the disease. It is also recommended to cover one's nose and mouth with a tissue or a bent elbow when coughing. Those who suspect they carry the virus are recommended to wear a surgical face mask and seek medical advice by calling a doctor rather than visiting a clinic in person. Masks are also recommended for those who are taking care of someone with a suspected infection but not for the general public. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, with management involving treatment of symptoms, supportive care and experimental measures. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 3%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As of 29 February 2020, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the United States are areas having evidence of community transmission of the disease.
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Created with PubMed® Query: ( SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR (wuhan AND coronavirus) AND review[SB] ) NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion
Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)
RevDate: 2025-07-28
COVID-19 vaccines and neurological disorders: A narrative review of immune responses and adverse reactions.
AIMS neuroscience, 12(2):222-249 pii:neurosci-12-02-013.
COVID-19 vaccines have been effective in providing strong immunity within a relatively short time frame, significantly reducing both the severity of the disease and associated mortality. However, post-vaccination complications, particularly neurological disorders, have been reported. Among the more frequently documented neurological complications are acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), multiple sclerosis (MS), transverse myelitis (TM), optic neuritis (ON), Bell's palsy (BP), and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). The precise role of COVID-19 vaccines in triggering the onset or relapse of these conditions remains uncertain. Immunological processes involving cytokines, chemokines, antibodies, and immune cells are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of these neurological side effects. This review examines the immune responses triggered by COVID-19 vaccines and their potential role in the development of such complications. Despite reports of neurological side effects, these cases remain rare, and the overall benefits of vaccination in curbing the pandemic and preventing severe illness far exceed the risks. It is vital to sustain the progress of global vaccination efforts while continuously evaluating the risk-benefit ratio, particularly for individuals with underlying conditions. Ongoing research and surveillance are crucial for creating safer vaccines and identifying individuals who may be more susceptible to adverse reactions, ensuring broader protection against COVID-19.
Additional Links: PMID-40717731
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@article {pmid40717731,
year = {2025},
author = {Joodaki, M and Seif, F and Afzalnia, A and Emtiazi, N and Shirazi, MM and Ashtari, B and Hosseinian, SM and Hosseini, N},
title = {COVID-19 vaccines and neurological disorders: A narrative review of immune responses and adverse reactions.},
journal = {AIMS neuroscience},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {222-249},
doi = {10.3934/Neuroscience.2025013},
pmid = {40717731},
issn = {2373-7972},
abstract = {COVID-19 vaccines have been effective in providing strong immunity within a relatively short time frame, significantly reducing both the severity of the disease and associated mortality. However, post-vaccination complications, particularly neurological disorders, have been reported. Among the more frequently documented neurological complications are acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), multiple sclerosis (MS), transverse myelitis (TM), optic neuritis (ON), Bell's palsy (BP), and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). The precise role of COVID-19 vaccines in triggering the onset or relapse of these conditions remains uncertain. Immunological processes involving cytokines, chemokines, antibodies, and immune cells are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of these neurological side effects. This review examines the immune responses triggered by COVID-19 vaccines and their potential role in the development of such complications. Despite reports of neurological side effects, these cases remain rare, and the overall benefits of vaccination in curbing the pandemic and preventing severe illness far exceed the risks. It is vital to sustain the progress of global vaccination efforts while continuously evaluating the risk-benefit ratio, particularly for individuals with underlying conditions. Ongoing research and surveillance are crucial for creating safer vaccines and identifying individuals who may be more susceptible to adverse reactions, ensuring broader protection against COVID-19.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-28
Immunity's core reset: Synbiotics and gut microbiota in the COVID-19 era.
Innate immunity, 31:17534259251362023.
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in shaping immune responses, and its connection to immunity has never been more relevant than in the COVID-19 era. The interaction between gut microbes and the immune system, known as microbiome-immunity crosstalk, influences both how the body responds to infections and how well it recovers. COVID-19, whether in its acute phase or lingering as long COVID, has been linked to disturbances in the gut microbiome. During infection, many patients experience dysbiosis-an imbalance in gut bacteria-that can contribute to immune dysfunction and excessive inflammation. This imbalance may not only worsen the severity of the disease but also prolong recovery, leading to persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues. Long COVID, in particular, has been associated with ongoing immune dysregulation, where the body's defense system remains in a state of heightened activation, causing chronic inflammation. Given the strong link between gut health and immunity, there is growing interest in strategies to restore microbial balance. Synbiotics-combinations of probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (nutrients that support them)-are being explored as a potential therapeutic approach. By replenishing beneficial gut microbes, synbiotics may help regulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and support overall recovery from COVID-19. Emerging research suggests that improving gut health could enhance the body's ability to fight infections and recover more efficiently. As we continue to understand the long-term impact of COVID-19, focusing on the gut microbiome offers a promising path forward. Supporting a balanced and diverse microbiome through diet, lifestyle, and targeted interventions like synbiotics may provide a natural way to strengthen immunity and improve health outcomes in both acute and long COVID cases.
Additional Links: PMID-40717478
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@article {pmid40717478,
year = {2025},
author = {Bajić, D and Todorović, N and Popović, ML and Plazačić, M and Mihajlović, A},
title = {Immunity's core reset: Synbiotics and gut microbiota in the COVID-19 era.},
journal = {Innate immunity},
volume = {31},
number = {},
pages = {17534259251362023},
doi = {10.1177/17534259251362023},
pmid = {40717478},
issn = {1753-4267},
abstract = {The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in shaping immune responses, and its connection to immunity has never been more relevant than in the COVID-19 era. The interaction between gut microbes and the immune system, known as microbiome-immunity crosstalk, influences both how the body responds to infections and how well it recovers. COVID-19, whether in its acute phase or lingering as long COVID, has been linked to disturbances in the gut microbiome. During infection, many patients experience dysbiosis-an imbalance in gut bacteria-that can contribute to immune dysfunction and excessive inflammation. This imbalance may not only worsen the severity of the disease but also prolong recovery, leading to persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues. Long COVID, in particular, has been associated with ongoing immune dysregulation, where the body's defense system remains in a state of heightened activation, causing chronic inflammation. Given the strong link between gut health and immunity, there is growing interest in strategies to restore microbial balance. Synbiotics-combinations of probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (nutrients that support them)-are being explored as a potential therapeutic approach. By replenishing beneficial gut microbes, synbiotics may help regulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and support overall recovery from COVID-19. Emerging research suggests that improving gut health could enhance the body's ability to fight infections and recover more efficiently. As we continue to understand the long-term impact of COVID-19, focusing on the gut microbiome offers a promising path forward. Supporting a balanced and diverse microbiome through diet, lifestyle, and targeted interventions like synbiotics may provide a natural way to strengthen immunity and improve health outcomes in both acute and long COVID cases.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-27
The Role of Emerging/Re-Emerging RNA Viruses in Bone-Related Diseases With a Focus on DENV, CHIKV, and SARS-CoV-2.
Reviews in medical virology, 35(4):e70053.
Emerging and re-emerging RNA viruses represent a persistent and evolving global health threat. While primarily recognized for their acute systemic or respiratory illnesses, a growing body of evidence implicates several of these pathogens in the development or exacerbation of bone-related diseases. This review critically describes the multifaceted roles of selected major RNA viruses-Dengue Virus (DENV), Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV), and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)- in bone-related diseases. It discusses the current understanding of the clinical manifestations, ranging from arthralgia and arthritis to more severe outcomes such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, and bone erosions. The review describes the potential pathogenic mechanisms, including direct viral infection of bone cells (osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes), as well as virus-induced dysregulation of host immune responses that lead to pro-inflammatory cytokine storms and altered signalling pathways, collectively driving aberrant bone remodelling. By discussing current knowledge, this review aims to highlight the significant, yet often underappreciated, impact of these RNA viruses on bone health, identify existing knowledge gaps, and underscore the need for further mechanistic research to inform targeted therapeutic and preventive strategies that reduce bone morbidity in affected populations.
Additional Links: PMID-40714940
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@article {pmid40714940,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, J and Guo, J and Li, J and Gao, J and Liu, J and Shen, S and Zhu, J},
title = {The Role of Emerging/Re-Emerging RNA Viruses in Bone-Related Diseases With a Focus on DENV, CHIKV, and SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {e70053},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70053},
pmid = {40714940},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {20222A146//Zhejiang Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project/ ; LGF22H060032//Zhejiang Provincial Basic Public Welfare Research Program/ ; A20210086//Hangzhou Health and Family Planning Science and Technology Program/ ; },
abstract = {Emerging and re-emerging RNA viruses represent a persistent and evolving global health threat. While primarily recognized for their acute systemic or respiratory illnesses, a growing body of evidence implicates several of these pathogens in the development or exacerbation of bone-related diseases. This review critically describes the multifaceted roles of selected major RNA viruses-Dengue Virus (DENV), Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV), and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)- in bone-related diseases. It discusses the current understanding of the clinical manifestations, ranging from arthralgia and arthritis to more severe outcomes such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, and bone erosions. The review describes the potential pathogenic mechanisms, including direct viral infection of bone cells (osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes), as well as virus-induced dysregulation of host immune responses that lead to pro-inflammatory cytokine storms and altered signalling pathways, collectively driving aberrant bone remodelling. By discussing current knowledge, this review aims to highlight the significant, yet often underappreciated, impact of these RNA viruses on bone health, identify existing knowledge gaps, and underscore the need for further mechanistic research to inform targeted therapeutic and preventive strategies that reduce bone morbidity in affected populations.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-28
CmpDate: 2025-07-27
[THE RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR NONCOMMUNICABLE DISEASES].
Problemy sotsial'noi gigieny, zdravookhraneniia i istorii meditsiny, 33(3):445-447.
The article presents modern data on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors. The tendency of increasing mortality from NCDs due to increase in the number and aging of the population is noted. The data is presented testifying that, in addition to biological risk factors, influence of environmental factors is increasing, including atmospheric and household air pollution, the levels of which are high in a significant number of countries. It is emphasized that green spaces (e.g., trees, grass, forests and parks) and blue spaces (e.g., lakes, rivers, ponds, etc.) provide beneficial effect on human health, being in fact protective factors for NCDs. The NCD risk factors are found to interact closely with each other: air pollution, depression, tobacco smoking, high blood pressure and obesity have been linked to all NCDs. The evidence is provided that presence of behavioral risk factors for NCDs exacerbates severity of infectious pathology, particularly COVID-19 and other infectious diseases (influenza, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis, etc.). Given that NCD risk factors can occur in early childhood, promoting healthy lifestyles among expectant mothers and adolescents should be a priority to reduce NCD risks, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Additional Links: PMID-40714772
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@article {pmid40714772,
year = {2025},
author = {Amlaev, KR and Abdullah, A},
title = {[THE RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR NONCOMMUNICABLE DISEASES].},
journal = {Problemy sotsial'noi gigieny, zdravookhraneniia i istorii meditsiny},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {445-447},
doi = {10.32687/0869-866X-2025-33-3-445-447},
pmid = {40714772},
issn = {0869-866X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Risk Factors ; Protective Factors ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Air Pollution/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {The article presents modern data on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors. The tendency of increasing mortality from NCDs due to increase in the number and aging of the population is noted. The data is presented testifying that, in addition to biological risk factors, influence of environmental factors is increasing, including atmospheric and household air pollution, the levels of which are high in a significant number of countries. It is emphasized that green spaces (e.g., trees, grass, forests and parks) and blue spaces (e.g., lakes, rivers, ponds, etc.) provide beneficial effect on human health, being in fact protective factors for NCDs. The NCD risk factors are found to interact closely with each other: air pollution, depression, tobacco smoking, high blood pressure and obesity have been linked to all NCDs. The evidence is provided that presence of behavioral risk factors for NCDs exacerbates severity of infectious pathology, particularly COVID-19 and other infectious diseases (influenza, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis, etc.). Given that NCD risk factors can occur in early childhood, promoting healthy lifestyles among expectant mothers and adolescents should be a priority to reduce NCD risks, especially in low- and middle-income countries.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control
Risk Factors
Protective Factors
COVID-19/epidemiology
Air Pollution/adverse effects
RevDate: 2025-07-27
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) mathematical models and disease parameters: a systematic review.
The Lancet. Microbe pii:S2666-5247(25)00072-2 [Epub ahead of print].
SARS-CoV-1 was the first documented coronavirus to cause an acute epidemic in humans and remains a priority pathogen owing to the risk of re-emergence. Robust estimates of key epidemiological parameters are essential to guide outbreak responses and inform mathematical models. Existing systematic reviews have been limited in scope, warranting a comprehensive and up-to-date review. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42023393345) of studies of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) transmission models and parameters characterising the transmission, evolution, natural history, severity, risk factors, and seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-1. Information was extracted using a custom database and quality assessment tool. We extracted data on 519 parameters, 243 risk factors, and 112 models from 289 papers. We found that SARS is characterised by high lethality (case-fatality ratio, 10·9%), transmissibility (R0 range, 1·1-4·59), and superspreading events (approximately 91% of SARS-CoV-1 infections can be attributed to 20% of individuals who were most infectious). Infection risk was the highest among health-care workers and close contacts of infected individuals. Severe disease and death were associated with age and existing comorbidities. The natural history of SARS was poorly characterised, except for the incubation and mean onset-to-hospitalisation delays. The extracted data were compiled into our associated R package, epireview, which can be updated to incorporate novel findings, thus providing a key resource for informing response to future coronavirus outbreaks. By making data accessible through an updatable database, we support rapid, evidence-informed responses to potential re-emergence of SARS-CoV-1 or related coronaviruses.
Additional Links: PMID-40713974
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@article {pmid40713974,
year = {2025},
author = {Morgenstern, C and Rawson, T and Routledge, I and Kont, M and Imai-Eaton, N and Skarp, J and Doohan, P and McCain, K and Johnson, R and Unwin, HJT and Naidoo, T and Dee, DP and Parchani, K and Cracknell Daniels, BN and Vicco, A and Drake, KO and Christen, P and Sheppard, RJ and Leuba, SI and Hicks, JT and McCabe, R and Nash, RK and Santoni, CN and Cuomo-Dannenburg, G and van Elsland, S and Bhatia, S and Cori, A and , },
title = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) mathematical models and disease parameters: a systematic review.},
journal = {The Lancet. Microbe},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101144},
doi = {10.1016/j.lanmic.2025.101144},
pmid = {40713974},
issn = {2666-5247},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-1 was the first documented coronavirus to cause an acute epidemic in humans and remains a priority pathogen owing to the risk of re-emergence. Robust estimates of key epidemiological parameters are essential to guide outbreak responses and inform mathematical models. Existing systematic reviews have been limited in scope, warranting a comprehensive and up-to-date review. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42023393345) of studies of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) transmission models and parameters characterising the transmission, evolution, natural history, severity, risk factors, and seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-1. Information was extracted using a custom database and quality assessment tool. We extracted data on 519 parameters, 243 risk factors, and 112 models from 289 papers. We found that SARS is characterised by high lethality (case-fatality ratio, 10·9%), transmissibility (R0 range, 1·1-4·59), and superspreading events (approximately 91% of SARS-CoV-1 infections can be attributed to 20% of individuals who were most infectious). Infection risk was the highest among health-care workers and close contacts of infected individuals. Severe disease and death were associated with age and existing comorbidities. The natural history of SARS was poorly characterised, except for the incubation and mean onset-to-hospitalisation delays. The extracted data were compiled into our associated R package, epireview, which can be updated to incorporate novel findings, thus providing a key resource for informing response to future coronavirus outbreaks. By making data accessible through an updatable database, we support rapid, evidence-informed responses to potential re-emergence of SARS-CoV-1 or related coronaviruses.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Regional and type-specific variations in the global seasonality of human parainfluenza viruses and the influence of climatic factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
The Lancet. Global health, 13(8):e1425-e1435.
BACKGROUND: Human parainfluenza viruses (hPIVs) are common viral causes of acute respiratory infections, resulting in substantial global disease burden. Seasonal patterns of hPIV epidemics can vary by geographical region and viral type, although these patterns are not well understood at a global level. We aimed to characterise regional and type-specific variations in hPIV seasonality and assess the potential role of climatic factors in explaining these variations.
METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we collected monthly aggregated seasonal activity data for hPIV and its four types (hPIV-1, hPIV-2, hPIV-3, and hPIV-4) from various sources, including a systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, and Ovid Global Health, for literature published between Jan 1, 2000, and Dec 31, 2024; unpublished data contributed by an established collaborative network; and public viral surveillance datasets from online platforms. We included studies that continuously tested hPIVs throughout their study period and reported seasonal activity in defined geographical locations on a monthly basis (or if monthly data could be derived from reports). We excluded published studies if they had fewer than 20 cases, focused on specific medical conditions, or contained duplicate data from published literature or publicly available datasets. A prespecified collection template was used to collect data from members in the collaborative network. We extracted site-specific monthly case counts of combined hPIVs and each viral type and used the annual average percentage approach to assess relative circulating strength, epidemic onset and peak month, and epidemic duration by virus type and latitude. We identified type-specific transmission zones of countries with similar circulating patterns with the k-means method. A local regression model (selected by leave-one-out cross-validation) was used to explore climatic factors associated with variations in hPIV monthly circulating activity. The study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023370261.
FINDINGS: We included 115 records in total: 103 studies identified from the published literature, five studies contributed by collaborators, and data from seven public surveillance datasets. We included 306 719 cases from 141 sites in 64 countries. We found that hPIV-3 exhibited distinctive seasonal patterns compared with the other three hPIV types. In temperate regions, hPIV-3 seasons typically occurred in spring, summer, and winter, with a median onset in April (IQR April-May) in the northern temperate region and July (July-July) in the southern temperate region. hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 seasons typically occurred in autumn, winter, and summer, with median onsets between August and October in the northern temperate region and between April and May in the southern temperate region. Both epidemic onset and peak timing for hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 were less consistent in tropical and subtropical regions than in temperate regions, whereas the seasonality of hPIV-3 remained generally consistent across regions. Northern temperate and subtropical countries typically clustered in shared transmission zones for hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-3 with a few exceptions, as did countries in the southern hemisphere. Nevertheless, hPIV-1 and hPIV-4 peak timings were delayed as latitude increased in the northern hemisphere (Pearson's r=0·62 [p=0·0012] for hPIV-1 and r=0·53 [p=0·049] for hPIV-4). Type-specific climate models yielded better fits (with greater area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values) than models for combined hPIVs. In temperate regions, higher hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 activity correlated with declining temperature and increasing relative humidity (all p values <0·0001), whereas higher hPIV-3 activity was correlated with rising temperature (rs=0·61; p<0·0001). In subtropical and tropical regions, the climate models showed suboptimal performance. Exploratory analyses showed differential timing shifts in hPIV epidemics across six included countries following the lifting of COVID-19 non-pharmacological interventions.
INTERPRETATION: Our results characterise both between-type and regional variations in hPIV seasonality and the differential effects of monthly temperature variability and relative humidity on the global seasonality of different hPIV types. These findings have important implications for development of global hPIV surveillance and epidemic prediction in diverse locations. Substantial gaps in hPIV type-specific seasonality data remain in many countries, highlighting the need to expand surveillance to improve characterisation and prediction of hPIV epidemics.
FUNDING: National Natural Science Foundation of China.
Additional Links: PMID-40712614
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40712614,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, J and Deng, S and Xu, X and Chen, S and Abo, YN and Bassat, Q and Deng, J and Komissarov, AB and Liu, E and Muñoz-Almagro, C and Ren, L and Stolyarov, K and Tomlinson, J and Cai, Z and Qiao, M and Li, Y and Wang, X and , },
title = {Regional and type-specific variations in the global seasonality of human parainfluenza viruses and the influence of climatic factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {The Lancet. Global health},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {e1425-e1435},
doi = {10.1016/S2214-109X(25)00188-3},
pmid = {40712614},
issn = {2214-109X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Seasons ; *Climate ; *Global Health ; *Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Human parainfluenza viruses (hPIVs) are common viral causes of acute respiratory infections, resulting in substantial global disease burden. Seasonal patterns of hPIV epidemics can vary by geographical region and viral type, although these patterns are not well understood at a global level. We aimed to characterise regional and type-specific variations in hPIV seasonality and assess the potential role of climatic factors in explaining these variations.
METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we collected monthly aggregated seasonal activity data for hPIV and its four types (hPIV-1, hPIV-2, hPIV-3, and hPIV-4) from various sources, including a systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, and Ovid Global Health, for literature published between Jan 1, 2000, and Dec 31, 2024; unpublished data contributed by an established collaborative network; and public viral surveillance datasets from online platforms. We included studies that continuously tested hPIVs throughout their study period and reported seasonal activity in defined geographical locations on a monthly basis (or if monthly data could be derived from reports). We excluded published studies if they had fewer than 20 cases, focused on specific medical conditions, or contained duplicate data from published literature or publicly available datasets. A prespecified collection template was used to collect data from members in the collaborative network. We extracted site-specific monthly case counts of combined hPIVs and each viral type and used the annual average percentage approach to assess relative circulating strength, epidemic onset and peak month, and epidemic duration by virus type and latitude. We identified type-specific transmission zones of countries with similar circulating patterns with the k-means method. A local regression model (selected by leave-one-out cross-validation) was used to explore climatic factors associated with variations in hPIV monthly circulating activity. The study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023370261.
FINDINGS: We included 115 records in total: 103 studies identified from the published literature, five studies contributed by collaborators, and data from seven public surveillance datasets. We included 306 719 cases from 141 sites in 64 countries. We found that hPIV-3 exhibited distinctive seasonal patterns compared with the other three hPIV types. In temperate regions, hPIV-3 seasons typically occurred in spring, summer, and winter, with a median onset in April (IQR April-May) in the northern temperate region and July (July-July) in the southern temperate region. hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 seasons typically occurred in autumn, winter, and summer, with median onsets between August and October in the northern temperate region and between April and May in the southern temperate region. Both epidemic onset and peak timing for hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 were less consistent in tropical and subtropical regions than in temperate regions, whereas the seasonality of hPIV-3 remained generally consistent across regions. Northern temperate and subtropical countries typically clustered in shared transmission zones for hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-3 with a few exceptions, as did countries in the southern hemisphere. Nevertheless, hPIV-1 and hPIV-4 peak timings were delayed as latitude increased in the northern hemisphere (Pearson's r=0·62 [p=0·0012] for hPIV-1 and r=0·53 [p=0·049] for hPIV-4). Type-specific climate models yielded better fits (with greater area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values) than models for combined hPIVs. In temperate regions, higher hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 activity correlated with declining temperature and increasing relative humidity (all p values <0·0001), whereas higher hPIV-3 activity was correlated with rising temperature (rs=0·61; p<0·0001). In subtropical and tropical regions, the climate models showed suboptimal performance. Exploratory analyses showed differential timing shifts in hPIV epidemics across six included countries following the lifting of COVID-19 non-pharmacological interventions.
INTERPRETATION: Our results characterise both between-type and regional variations in hPIV seasonality and the differential effects of monthly temperature variability and relative humidity on the global seasonality of different hPIV types. These findings have important implications for development of global hPIV surveillance and epidemic prediction in diverse locations. Substantial gaps in hPIV type-specific seasonality data remain in many countries, highlighting the need to expand surveillance to improve characterisation and prediction of hPIV epidemics.
FUNDING: National Natural Science Foundation of China.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Seasons
*Climate
*Global Health
*Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology
RevDate: 2025-07-25
Infectious complications in CLL/SLL patients receiving Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors - systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Annals of hematology [Epub ahead of print].
The development of Bruton Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors (BTKis) has revolutionized the management of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL). However, increased infection rates have been reported in patients receiving BTKis in multiple clinical trials. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of infections associated with BTKis compared to other therapeutic regimens in CLL/SLL patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. We included trials comparing BTKi-containing regimens (e.g., BTKi alone or combined with anti-CD20 or venetoclax) to other therapeutic regimens, as well as studies comparing different BTKis or BTKi combinations. Primary outcomes were the risk of any infection and grade 3-4 infections. Secondary outcomes included pneumonia, sepsis, septic shock, COVID-19, fungal infections, fatal infections, bacteremia, and febrile neutropenia. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using fixed or random effects models based on heterogeneity. Eighteen trials encompassing 8,324 patients were included. BTKi-containing regimens, either as monotherapy or combined with anti-CD20 or venetoclax, were not associated with a significantly increased risk of any infection compared to other regimens [BTKi + anti-CD20 or venetoclax: RR 0.93 (95% CI: 0.79-1.09, I[2] = 46%), 3 trials; BTKi monotherapy: RR 1.12 (95% CI: 0.94-1.34, I[2] = 73%), 3 trials]. Similarly, BTKi monotherapy was not associated with an increased risk of grade 3-4 infections [RR 1.05 (95% CI: 0.76-1.44, I[2] = 61%), 5 trials]. The risk of sepsis was not significantly increased with BTKi regimens [BTKi + anti-CD20: RR 0.48 (95% CI: 0.12-1.84, I[2] = 69%), 4 trials; BTKi monotherapy: RR 0.50 (95% CI: 0.25-1.01, I[2] = 0%), 5 trials]. However, pneumonia risk was increased in the BTKi + anti-CD20 vs other regimens, [RR 2.18; 95% CI 1.29-3.70; I[2] = 3%, 4 trials]. The risk of febrile neutropenia was reduced in trials comparing BTKi-containing regimens to other therapies. BTKi-containing regimens were not associated with an increased risk of overall infections or grade 3-4 infections compared to other regimens. However, an elevated risk of pneumonia was observed with BTKi combinations, highlighting the need for careful consideration when selecting treatment regimens for CLL/SLL patients.
Additional Links: PMID-40711525
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40711525,
year = {2025},
author = {Buchrits, S and Trieman, G and Giladi, O and Hofstetter, L and Gurion, R and Granot, G and Shacham-Abulafia, A and Raanani, P and Gafter-Gvili, A},
title = {Infectious complications in CLL/SLL patients receiving Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors - systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Annals of hematology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40711525},
issn = {1432-0584},
abstract = {The development of Bruton Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors (BTKis) has revolutionized the management of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL). However, increased infection rates have been reported in patients receiving BTKis in multiple clinical trials. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of infections associated with BTKis compared to other therapeutic regimens in CLL/SLL patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. We included trials comparing BTKi-containing regimens (e.g., BTKi alone or combined with anti-CD20 or venetoclax) to other therapeutic regimens, as well as studies comparing different BTKis or BTKi combinations. Primary outcomes were the risk of any infection and grade 3-4 infections. Secondary outcomes included pneumonia, sepsis, septic shock, COVID-19, fungal infections, fatal infections, bacteremia, and febrile neutropenia. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using fixed or random effects models based on heterogeneity. Eighteen trials encompassing 8,324 patients were included. BTKi-containing regimens, either as monotherapy or combined with anti-CD20 or venetoclax, were not associated with a significantly increased risk of any infection compared to other regimens [BTKi + anti-CD20 or venetoclax: RR 0.93 (95% CI: 0.79-1.09, I[2] = 46%), 3 trials; BTKi monotherapy: RR 1.12 (95% CI: 0.94-1.34, I[2] = 73%), 3 trials]. Similarly, BTKi monotherapy was not associated with an increased risk of grade 3-4 infections [RR 1.05 (95% CI: 0.76-1.44, I[2] = 61%), 5 trials]. The risk of sepsis was not significantly increased with BTKi regimens [BTKi + anti-CD20: RR 0.48 (95% CI: 0.12-1.84, I[2] = 69%), 4 trials; BTKi monotherapy: RR 0.50 (95% CI: 0.25-1.01, I[2] = 0%), 5 trials]. However, pneumonia risk was increased in the BTKi + anti-CD20 vs other regimens, [RR 2.18; 95% CI 1.29-3.70; I[2] = 3%, 4 trials]. The risk of febrile neutropenia was reduced in trials comparing BTKi-containing regimens to other therapies. BTKi-containing regimens were not associated with an increased risk of overall infections or grade 3-4 infections compared to other regimens. However, an elevated risk of pneumonia was observed with BTKi combinations, highlighting the need for careful consideration when selecting treatment regimens for CLL/SLL patients.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
From Challenge to Cure: A Look at Feline Infectious Peritonitis and Emerging Treatment Strategies and Breakthroughs.
Veterinary sciences, 12(7):.
BACKGROUND: Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a complex and devastating viral disease in cats caused by feline coronavirus (FCoV). While FCoV is commonly encountered and typically innocuous, the emergence of a mutated variant can lead to the development of FIP, a severe and often fatal condition.
METHOD AND RESULTS: This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the etiological factors, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and challenges associated with FIP. Additionally, it underscores the critical need for further research to enhance diagnostic capabilities and develop effective therapeutic interventions.
CONCLUSION: By shedding light on the intricate dynamics of FIP, this review paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the disease via fostering therapeutic advancements that can improve outcomes for afflicted felines.
Additional Links: PMID-40711310
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40711310,
year = {2025},
author = {Mir, S and Peters, M and Penny, G and Agsaoa, A and Mir, M},
title = {From Challenge to Cure: A Look at Feline Infectious Peritonitis and Emerging Treatment Strategies and Breakthroughs.},
journal = {Veterinary sciences},
volume = {12},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40711310},
issn = {2306-7381},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a complex and devastating viral disease in cats caused by feline coronavirus (FCoV). While FCoV is commonly encountered and typically innocuous, the emergence of a mutated variant can lead to the development of FIP, a severe and often fatal condition.
METHOD AND RESULTS: This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the etiological factors, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and challenges associated with FIP. Additionally, it underscores the critical need for further research to enhance diagnostic capabilities and develop effective therapeutic interventions.
CONCLUSION: By shedding light on the intricate dynamics of FIP, this review paper aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the disease via fostering therapeutic advancements that can improve outcomes for afflicted felines.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
Police Fitness: An International Perspective on Current and Future Challenges.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland), 13(7):.
Poor officer fitness can lead to decreased occupational task performance, injuries, increased absenteeism, and a variety of negative health sequalae further adding to the challenges of staffing law enforcement agencies. Optimizing the physical fitness for both serving officers and new recruits is critical as their loss is, and will increasingly be, difficult to replace. However, maintaining and recruiting a physically fit workforce faces several challenges. For serving officers, shiftwork is known to decrease motivation to exercise and negatively impact sleep and diet. Additional factors impacting their fitness includes age-related declines in fitness, increasing obesity, long periods of sedentarism, and negative COVID-19 effects. Concurrently, recruiting physically fit recruits is challenged by declining levels of fitness, reduced physical activity, and increasing obesity in community youth. Ability-based training (ABT), individualizing physical conditioning training based on the existing fitness levels of individuals within a group, offers a potential solution for delivering physical conditioning to groups of applicants, recruits, and officers with a range of physical fitness capabilities. Law enforcement agencies should consider implementing ABT during academy training and ongoing fitness maintenance to minimize injury risk and optimize task performance.
Additional Links: PMID-40711104
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40711104,
year = {2025},
author = {Orr, R and Canetti, EFD and Gough, S and Macdonald, K and Dulla, J and Lockie, RG and Dawes, JJ and Blacker, SD and Milligan, GS and Schram, B},
title = {Police Fitness: An International Perspective on Current and Future Challenges.},
journal = {Sports (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40711104},
issn = {2075-4663},
abstract = {Poor officer fitness can lead to decreased occupational task performance, injuries, increased absenteeism, and a variety of negative health sequalae further adding to the challenges of staffing law enforcement agencies. Optimizing the physical fitness for both serving officers and new recruits is critical as their loss is, and will increasingly be, difficult to replace. However, maintaining and recruiting a physically fit workforce faces several challenges. For serving officers, shiftwork is known to decrease motivation to exercise and negatively impact sleep and diet. Additional factors impacting their fitness includes age-related declines in fitness, increasing obesity, long periods of sedentarism, and negative COVID-19 effects. Concurrently, recruiting physically fit recruits is challenged by declining levels of fitness, reduced physical activity, and increasing obesity in community youth. Ability-based training (ABT), individualizing physical conditioning training based on the existing fitness levels of individuals within a group, offers a potential solution for delivering physical conditioning to groups of applicants, recruits, and officers with a range of physical fitness capabilities. Law enforcement agencies should consider implementing ABT during academy training and ongoing fitness maintenance to minimize injury risk and optimize task performance.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
Is Ghana Prepared for Another Arboviral Outbreak? Evaluating the 2024 Dengue Fever Outbreak in the Context of Past Yellow Fever, Influenza, and COVID-19 Outbreaks.
Tropical medicine and infectious disease, 10(7):.
Arboviruses are a growing concern in many nations. Several reports of arboviral outbreaks have been recorded globally in the past decade alone. Repeated arboviral outbreaks in developing countries have consistently highlighted vulnerabilities in disease surveillance and response systems, exposing critical gaps in early detection, contact tracing, and resource allocation. The 2024 Dengue fever outbreak in Ghana, which recorded 205 confirmed cases out of 1410 suspected cases, underscored the urgent need to evaluate the country's preparedness for arboviral outbreaks, given the detection of competent vectors in the country. A retrospective analysis of Ghana's 2009-2013 pandemic influenza response plan revealed significant deficiencies in emergency preparedness, raising concerns about the country's ability to manage emerging arboviral threats. This review assessed Ghana's current arboviral outbreak response and preparedness by examining (a) the effectiveness of vector control measures, (b) the role of early warning systems in mitigating outbreaks, (c) laboratory support and diagnostic capabilities, and (d) community engagement strategies. It highlights the successes made in previous outbreaks and sheds light on several gaps in Ghana's outbreak response efforts. This review also provides recommendations that can be implemented in many countries across Africa as they brace themselves for any arboviral outbreak.
Additional Links: PMID-40711073
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40711073,
year = {2025},
author = {Appiah, GA and Babason, JJ and Dziworshie, AY and Abankwa, A and Bonney, JHK},
title = {Is Ghana Prepared for Another Arboviral Outbreak? Evaluating the 2024 Dengue Fever Outbreak in the Context of Past Yellow Fever, Influenza, and COVID-19 Outbreaks.},
journal = {Tropical medicine and infectious disease},
volume = {10},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40711073},
issn = {2414-6366},
abstract = {Arboviruses are a growing concern in many nations. Several reports of arboviral outbreaks have been recorded globally in the past decade alone. Repeated arboviral outbreaks in developing countries have consistently highlighted vulnerabilities in disease surveillance and response systems, exposing critical gaps in early detection, contact tracing, and resource allocation. The 2024 Dengue fever outbreak in Ghana, which recorded 205 confirmed cases out of 1410 suspected cases, underscored the urgent need to evaluate the country's preparedness for arboviral outbreaks, given the detection of competent vectors in the country. A retrospective analysis of Ghana's 2009-2013 pandemic influenza response plan revealed significant deficiencies in emergency preparedness, raising concerns about the country's ability to manage emerging arboviral threats. This review assessed Ghana's current arboviral outbreak response and preparedness by examining (a) the effectiveness of vector control measures, (b) the role of early warning systems in mitigating outbreaks, (c) laboratory support and diagnostic capabilities, and (d) community engagement strategies. It highlights the successes made in previous outbreaks and sheds light on several gaps in Ghana's outbreak response efforts. This review also provides recommendations that can be implemented in many countries across Africa as they brace themselves for any arboviral outbreak.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Pathogenesis of Autoimmunity/Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
Cells, 14(14):.
SLE is characterized by the generation of a variety of autoantibodies including anti-dsDNA autoantibodies, causing damage in various organs. If autoimmunity is defined by the generation of a variety of autoantibodies against the self, SLE is the only disease to qualify. Identification of the SLE-causing factor must fulfill the following criteria: (i) the factor induces SLE, (ii) the factor is operating in active SLE and (iii) SLE heals after removal of the factor. All candidate factors are reviewed from this viewpoint in this review. As to the cause of SLE, high levels of interferon α can induce SLE; however, interferon α in most patients did not reach this high level. BAFF (B cell activating factor of the TNF family) is increased in SLE. BAFF itself induced some manifestation of SLE, whereas removal of interferon α or BAFF by an antibody (Ab) did not heal SLE. BXSB male mice with a duplicated TLR7 gene develop SLE; however, the gene Sle1 is also required for the development of SLE. In addition, sanroque mice develop a variety of autoantibodies and SLE; the sanroque mutation, which disrupts one of the repressors of ICOS, results in increased CCR7[lo] CXCR5[+]Tfh cells, IL-21 and SLE. ICOS[+]T follicular helper (Tfh) cells increase in SLE and SLE-model (NZBxNZW)F1 mice, and the blockade of Tfh development ameliorated SLE, indicating the importance of Tfh cells in the pathogenesis of SLE. Self-organized criticality theory shows that SLE is caused by repeated infection, wherein SLE-inducing pathogens can vary individually depending on one's HLA; however, the pathogen presented on HLA stimulates the T cell receptor (TCR) strongly beyond self-organized criticality. This stimulation generates TCR-revised, autoreactive DOCK8[+]Tfh cells, which induced a variety of autoantibodies and SLE. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is an example pathogen because SLE occurs after SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination. DOCK8[+]Tfh cells and SLE decreased after conventional or anti-DOCK Ab therapies. Thus, DOCK8[+]Tfh cells newly generated after repeated infection fulfill the criteria (i), (ii) and (iii) as the cause of SLE.
Additional Links: PMID-40710333
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40710333,
year = {2025},
author = {Shiozawa, S},
title = {Pathogenesis of Autoimmunity/Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {14},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40710333},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {Grant-in-aid 25515003, 17659301, 13204059, 11557026, 12204074 and 0003 of Center of Excellence (CEO)//Institute for Rheumatic Diseases, Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan, and Japan Science and Technology Agency/ ; },
mesh = {*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology/pathology/etiology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Autoimmunity/immunology ; B-Cell Activating Factor/metabolism ; Autoantibodies/immunology ; Mice ; },
abstract = {SLE is characterized by the generation of a variety of autoantibodies including anti-dsDNA autoantibodies, causing damage in various organs. If autoimmunity is defined by the generation of a variety of autoantibodies against the self, SLE is the only disease to qualify. Identification of the SLE-causing factor must fulfill the following criteria: (i) the factor induces SLE, (ii) the factor is operating in active SLE and (iii) SLE heals after removal of the factor. All candidate factors are reviewed from this viewpoint in this review. As to the cause of SLE, high levels of interferon α can induce SLE; however, interferon α in most patients did not reach this high level. BAFF (B cell activating factor of the TNF family) is increased in SLE. BAFF itself induced some manifestation of SLE, whereas removal of interferon α or BAFF by an antibody (Ab) did not heal SLE. BXSB male mice with a duplicated TLR7 gene develop SLE; however, the gene Sle1 is also required for the development of SLE. In addition, sanroque mice develop a variety of autoantibodies and SLE; the sanroque mutation, which disrupts one of the repressors of ICOS, results in increased CCR7[lo] CXCR5[+]Tfh cells, IL-21 and SLE. ICOS[+]T follicular helper (Tfh) cells increase in SLE and SLE-model (NZBxNZW)F1 mice, and the blockade of Tfh development ameliorated SLE, indicating the importance of Tfh cells in the pathogenesis of SLE. Self-organized criticality theory shows that SLE is caused by repeated infection, wherein SLE-inducing pathogens can vary individually depending on one's HLA; however, the pathogen presented on HLA stimulates the T cell receptor (TCR) strongly beyond self-organized criticality. This stimulation generates TCR-revised, autoreactive DOCK8[+]Tfh cells, which induced a variety of autoantibodies and SLE. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is an example pathogen because SLE occurs after SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination. DOCK8[+]Tfh cells and SLE decreased after conventional or anti-DOCK Ab therapies. Thus, DOCK8[+]Tfh cells newly generated after repeated infection fulfill the criteria (i), (ii) and (iii) as the cause of SLE.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic/immunology/pathology/etiology
Humans
Animals
*Autoimmunity/immunology
B-Cell Activating Factor/metabolism
Autoantibodies/immunology
Mice
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Democratization of Point-of-Care Viral Biosensors: Bridging the Gap from Academia to the Clinic.
Biosensors, 15(7):.
The COVID-19 pandemic and recent viral outbreaks have highlighted the need for viral diagnostics that balance accuracy with accessibility. While traditional laboratory methods remain essential, point-of-care solutions are critical for decentralized testing at the population level. However, a gap persists between academic proof-of-concept studies and clinically viable tools, with novel technologies remaining inaccessible to clinics due to cost, complexity, training, and logistical constraints. Recent advances in surface functionalization, assay simplification, multiplexing, and performance in complex media have improved the feasibility of both optical and non-optical sensing techniques. These innovations, coupled with scalable manufacturing methods such as 3D printing and streamlined hardware production, pave the way for practical deployment in real-world settings. Additionally, software-assisted data interpretation, through simplified readouts, smartphone integration, and machine learning, enables the broader use of diagnostics once limited to experts. This review explores improvements in viral diagnostic approaches, including colorimetric, optical, and electrochemical assays, showcasing their potential for democratization efforts targeting the clinic. We also examine trends such as open-source hardware, modular assay design, and standardized reporting, which collectively reduce barriers to clinical adoption and the public dissemination of information. By analyzing these interdisciplinary advances, we demonstrate how emerging technologies can mature into accessible, low-cost diagnostic tools for widespread testing.
Additional Links: PMID-40710086
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40710086,
year = {2025},
author = {Van Zant, W and Ray, P},
title = {Democratization of Point-of-Care Viral Biosensors: Bridging the Gap from Academia to the Clinic.},
journal = {Biosensors},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {40710086},
issn = {2079-6374},
mesh = {*Biosensing Techniques/methods ; Humans ; *Point-of-Care Systems ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Academia ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic and recent viral outbreaks have highlighted the need for viral diagnostics that balance accuracy with accessibility. While traditional laboratory methods remain essential, point-of-care solutions are critical for decentralized testing at the population level. However, a gap persists between academic proof-of-concept studies and clinically viable tools, with novel technologies remaining inaccessible to clinics due to cost, complexity, training, and logistical constraints. Recent advances in surface functionalization, assay simplification, multiplexing, and performance in complex media have improved the feasibility of both optical and non-optical sensing techniques. These innovations, coupled with scalable manufacturing methods such as 3D printing and streamlined hardware production, pave the way for practical deployment in real-world settings. Additionally, software-assisted data interpretation, through simplified readouts, smartphone integration, and machine learning, enables the broader use of diagnostics once limited to experts. This review explores improvements in viral diagnostic approaches, including colorimetric, optical, and electrochemical assays, showcasing their potential for democratization efforts targeting the clinic. We also examine trends such as open-source hardware, modular assay design, and standardized reporting, which collectively reduce barriers to clinical adoption and the public dissemination of information. By analyzing these interdisciplinary advances, we demonstrate how emerging technologies can mature into accessible, low-cost diagnostic tools for widespread testing.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Biosensing Techniques/methods
Humans
*Point-of-Care Systems
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Academia
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Digital Health Experiences of Primary Care Nurses: A Qualitative Meta-synthesis.
International nursing review, 72(3):e70069.
AIM: To analyze primary care nurses' experiences of integrating and using digital health in their daily practice.
BACKGROUND: The integration of digital health in primary care, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has transformed nursing practices with a view to provide better support and services to patients.
INTRODUCTION: The World Health Organization defines "digital health" as the use of electronic technologies to improve health. Its 2020-2025 strategy seeks to integrate these technologies into health systems to facilitate communication between professionals, patients, and authorities. Tools such as telehealth, electronic records, artificial intelligence, and big data are transforming the role of nurses, who must become familiar with them for their performance.
METHODS: Qualitative studies on digital health in primary care nursing were reviewed following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines and using the Joanna Briggs Institute for Qualitative Research (JBI-QARI) criteria.
RESULTS: Eleven articles were analyzed using thematic coding according to Thomas and Harden's approach, identifying three main themes: adaptation to digital health, nurses' perspective on digital health, and nurse-patient digital interaction.
DISCUSSION: The integration of digital health has required nurses to adapt quickly. They have expressed both benefits and challenges, highlighting the importance of adequate training, personalization in the use of digital tools, information security, and optimization of technological infrastructure.
It is essential to assess the current competencies of nurses in digital health in order to meet their needs. Health systems should incorporate new technologies into clinical practice guidelines and health programs to improve and update the continuity and quality of care in primary care. Health policies should support the continuing education of nurses and the effective integration of technology.
Additional Links: PMID-40709747
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40709747,
year = {2025},
author = {Robles-Aguilar, P and Ruiz-Fernández, MD and Bermudo-Fuenmayor, S},
title = {Digital Health Experiences of Primary Care Nurses: A Qualitative Meta-synthesis.},
journal = {International nursing review},
volume = {72},
number = {3},
pages = {e70069},
doi = {10.1111/inr.70069},
pmid = {40709747},
issn = {1466-7657},
mesh = {Humans ; Qualitative Research ; *COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology ; *Primary Care Nursing ; *Telemedicine ; Primary Health Care ; Attitude of Health Personnel ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {AIM: To analyze primary care nurses' experiences of integrating and using digital health in their daily practice.
BACKGROUND: The integration of digital health in primary care, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has transformed nursing practices with a view to provide better support and services to patients.
INTRODUCTION: The World Health Organization defines "digital health" as the use of electronic technologies to improve health. Its 2020-2025 strategy seeks to integrate these technologies into health systems to facilitate communication between professionals, patients, and authorities. Tools such as telehealth, electronic records, artificial intelligence, and big data are transforming the role of nurses, who must become familiar with them for their performance.
METHODS: Qualitative studies on digital health in primary care nursing were reviewed following the Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines and using the Joanna Briggs Institute for Qualitative Research (JBI-QARI) criteria.
RESULTS: Eleven articles were analyzed using thematic coding according to Thomas and Harden's approach, identifying three main themes: adaptation to digital health, nurses' perspective on digital health, and nurse-patient digital interaction.
DISCUSSION: The integration of digital health has required nurses to adapt quickly. They have expressed both benefits and challenges, highlighting the importance of adequate training, personalization in the use of digital tools, information security, and optimization of technological infrastructure.
It is essential to assess the current competencies of nurses in digital health in order to meet their needs. Health systems should incorporate new technologies into clinical practice guidelines and health programs to improve and update the continuity and quality of care in primary care. Health policies should support the continuing education of nurses and the effective integration of technology.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Qualitative Research
*COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology
*Primary Care Nursing
*Telemedicine
Primary Health Care
Attitude of Health Personnel
Digital Health
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Artificial intelligence for tuberculosis control: a scoping review of applications in public health.
Journal of global health, 15:04192.
BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an important tool in global health, improving disease diagnosis and management. Despite advancements, tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where diagnostic methods are limited. In this scoping review, we aim to examine the potential role of AI in TB control.
METHODS: We conducted a search on 25 August 2024 for the past five years, in the PubMed database using keywords related to AI and TB. We included laboratory-based and observational studies focussing on AI applications in TB, excluding non-original research.
RESULTS: There were 34 eligible studies, identifying eight overarching aspects associated with TB control, including active case finding (ACF), triage, pleural effusion diagnosis, multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB, differential diagnosis distinguishing active TB from TB infection and other pulmonary communicable diseases, TB and other pulmonary communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), treatment outcome prediction, pleural effusion, and predictions of regional and national trends. AI may transform TB control through enhanced ACF methods and triage, improving detection rates in high-burden regions. With high accuracy, AI may diagnose pleural diagnosis, differentiate TB active and TB infection, TB and non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung disease, COVID-19, and pulmonary NCDs. AI applications may facilitate the prediction of treatment success and adverse effects. Furthermore, AI-driven hotspot mapping may identify undiagnosed TB cases at rates surpassing traditional notification methods. Lastly, predictive modelling and clinical decision support systems may improve the management of MDR-TB.
CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review highlights the potential of AI-driven predictions in national TB programmes to enhance diagnostics, track trends, and strengthen public health surveillance. While promising for reducing transmission and supporting TB care in low-resource settings, these models require large-scale validation to ensure real-world applicability, especially for high-risk groups.
Additional Links: PMID-40709592
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40709592,
year = {2025},
author = {Menon, S and Koura, KG},
title = {Artificial intelligence for tuberculosis control: a scoping review of applications in public health.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {04192},
doi = {10.7189/jogh.15.04192},
pmid = {40709592},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Public Health ; *Tuberculosis/prevention & control/diagnosis ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an important tool in global health, improving disease diagnosis and management. Despite advancements, tuberculosis (TB) remains a public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where diagnostic methods are limited. In this scoping review, we aim to examine the potential role of AI in TB control.
METHODS: We conducted a search on 25 August 2024 for the past five years, in the PubMed database using keywords related to AI and TB. We included laboratory-based and observational studies focussing on AI applications in TB, excluding non-original research.
RESULTS: There were 34 eligible studies, identifying eight overarching aspects associated with TB control, including active case finding (ACF), triage, pleural effusion diagnosis, multidrug-resistant (MDR) TB and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB, differential diagnosis distinguishing active TB from TB infection and other pulmonary communicable diseases, TB and other pulmonary communicable and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), treatment outcome prediction, pleural effusion, and predictions of regional and national trends. AI may transform TB control through enhanced ACF methods and triage, improving detection rates in high-burden regions. With high accuracy, AI may diagnose pleural diagnosis, differentiate TB active and TB infection, TB and non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung disease, COVID-19, and pulmonary NCDs. AI applications may facilitate the prediction of treatment success and adverse effects. Furthermore, AI-driven hotspot mapping may identify undiagnosed TB cases at rates surpassing traditional notification methods. Lastly, predictive modelling and clinical decision support systems may improve the management of MDR-TB.
CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review highlights the potential of AI-driven predictions in national TB programmes to enhance diagnostics, track trends, and strengthen public health surveillance. While promising for reducing transmission and supporting TB care in low-resource settings, these models require large-scale validation to ensure real-world applicability, especially for high-risk groups.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Public Health
*Tuberculosis/prevention & control/diagnosis
Global Health
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Global geographic and socioeconomic disparities in COVID-associated acute kidney injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of global health, 15:04166.
BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and severe complication of COVID-19, which significantly increases the risk of mortality. There has been a wide range of AKI prevalence reported throughout the pandemic, reflecting differences in geographic location, patient characteristics, and health care resources. We aimed to provide a global overview of the COVID-19 AKI prevalence reported in published studies to uncover geographic and socioeconomic disparities.
METHODS: We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis, searching PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for full-text articles published in English reporting the prevalence of AKI from January 2020 to November 2023. All studies defined AKI according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria. Clinical characteristics were extracted and examined from 334 studies that met the inclusion criteria. With significant study heterogeneity, random-effect models were estimated. We reported pooled AKI prevalence by country, region, and income level. Meta-regression further examined the relationship between COVID-associated AKI and geographic location.
RESULTS: After removing studies that utilised the same data, 345 796 patients from 246 studies were included, covering 49 countries. Of 246 studies, 137 came from high-income countries, whereas only three were conducted in low-income countries. Among non-intensive care unit (ICU) patients, low-income countries had the lowest COVID-19 AKI prevalence (14.1%; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 11.4-17.2). Among ICU patients, lower-middle-income countries had the lowest COVID-19 AKI prevalence (27.9%;95% CI = 19.4-38.4).
CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows significant geographic and socioeconomic disparities in the prevalence of COVID-associated AKI, with a higher prevalence in high-income countries and a lower prevalence in low- and lower-middle-income countries. This study is the most comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis highlighting global disparities in COVID-associated AKI prevalence. Further studies are needed to explain the reasons behind these differences.
Additional Links: PMID-40709582
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@article {pmid40709582,
year = {2025},
author = {Dai, D and Gois, PF and Simpson, D and Hedfi, S and Shrapnel, S and Pole, JD},
title = {Global geographic and socioeconomic disparities in COVID-associated acute kidney injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {04166},
doi = {10.7189/jogh.15.04166},
pmid = {40709582},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; *Acute Kidney Injury/epidemiology/etiology ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Prevalence ; *Health Status Disparities ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Socioeconomic Disparities in Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and severe complication of COVID-19, which significantly increases the risk of mortality. There has been a wide range of AKI prevalence reported throughout the pandemic, reflecting differences in geographic location, patient characteristics, and health care resources. We aimed to provide a global overview of the COVID-19 AKI prevalence reported in published studies to uncover geographic and socioeconomic disparities.
METHODS: We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis, searching PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for full-text articles published in English reporting the prevalence of AKI from January 2020 to November 2023. All studies defined AKI according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes criteria. Clinical characteristics were extracted and examined from 334 studies that met the inclusion criteria. With significant study heterogeneity, random-effect models were estimated. We reported pooled AKI prevalence by country, region, and income level. Meta-regression further examined the relationship between COVID-associated AKI and geographic location.
RESULTS: After removing studies that utilised the same data, 345 796 patients from 246 studies were included, covering 49 countries. Of 246 studies, 137 came from high-income countries, whereas only three were conducted in low-income countries. Among non-intensive care unit (ICU) patients, low-income countries had the lowest COVID-19 AKI prevalence (14.1%; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 11.4-17.2). Among ICU patients, lower-middle-income countries had the lowest COVID-19 AKI prevalence (27.9%;95% CI = 19.4-38.4).
CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows significant geographic and socioeconomic disparities in the prevalence of COVID-associated AKI, with a higher prevalence in high-income countries and a lower prevalence in low- and lower-middle-income countries. This study is the most comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis highlighting global disparities in COVID-associated AKI prevalence. Further studies are needed to explain the reasons behind these differences.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Acute Kidney Injury/epidemiology/etiology
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Global Health/statistics & numerical data
Socioeconomic Factors
Prevalence
*Health Status Disparities
SARS-CoV-2
Socioeconomic Disparities in Health
RevDate: 2025-07-25
Remdesivir Versus Sotrovimab in Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Health science reports, 8(7):e71118.
BACKGROUND AND AIM: Remdesivir and Sotrovimab have emerged as potential treatment options for patients diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and safety of these two drugs in the context of COVID-19 management.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, medRxiv, and Google Scholar up to July 2024. The effectiveness outcomes examined included mortality rate, hospitalization rate, emergency department visits, ICU admission, and adverse events. The risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions was evaluated using a standardized tool, and data from the identified studies were meticulously analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software.
RESULTS: The analysis incorporated a total of 9 studies involving 7841 patients. The meta-analysis findings indicated no significant disparity between the Remdesivir and Sotrovimab groups concerning mortality rate (odds ratio [OR] = 3.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50-24.11, p = 0.20), hospitalization rate (OR = 2.11, 95% CI: 0.85-5.22, p = 0.10), emergency department visit (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.11-5.62, p = 0.82), and intensive care unit (2.37, 95% CI: 0.18-29.90, p = 0.50). Moreover, comparable rates of adverse events were observed across both groups (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.39-2.47, p = 0.97). The certainty of evidence for these findings was rated as low or moderate.
CONCLUSION: The study findings suggest that there is no significant difference in effectiveness between Remdesivir and Sotrovimab in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. Further research is needed to provide a more comprehensive comparison of these interventions for COVID-19.
Additional Links: PMID-40709071
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40709071,
year = {2025},
author = {Khorramnia, S and Navidi, Z and Sarkoohi, A and Iravani, MM and Orandi, A and Orandi, A and Ghazi, SF and Fallah, E and Malekabad, ES and Moghadam, SHP},
title = {Remdesivir Versus Sotrovimab in Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {8},
number = {7},
pages = {e71118},
pmid = {40709071},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIM: Remdesivir and Sotrovimab have emerged as potential treatment options for patients diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to evaluate and compare the effectiveness and safety of these two drugs in the context of COVID-19 management.
METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, medRxiv, and Google Scholar up to July 2024. The effectiveness outcomes examined included mortality rate, hospitalization rate, emergency department visits, ICU admission, and adverse events. The risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions was evaluated using a standardized tool, and data from the identified studies were meticulously analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software.
RESULTS: The analysis incorporated a total of 9 studies involving 7841 patients. The meta-analysis findings indicated no significant disparity between the Remdesivir and Sotrovimab groups concerning mortality rate (odds ratio [OR] = 3.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50-24.11, p = 0.20), hospitalization rate (OR = 2.11, 95% CI: 0.85-5.22, p = 0.10), emergency department visit (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.11-5.62, p = 0.82), and intensive care unit (2.37, 95% CI: 0.18-29.90, p = 0.50). Moreover, comparable rates of adverse events were observed across both groups (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.39-2.47, p = 0.97). The certainty of evidence for these findings was rated as low or moderate.
CONCLUSION: The study findings suggest that there is no significant difference in effectiveness between Remdesivir and Sotrovimab in the treatment of COVID-19 patients. Further research is needed to provide a more comprehensive comparison of these interventions for COVID-19.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Overview of the Japanese mental health services through legislation, policies and recent initiatives: a narrative review.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England), 37(3-4):397-408.
In Japan, mental health legislation and policies have evolved, and mental health services have progressively developed in the post-World War II era. This review introduces two essential laws: the Act on Mental Health and Welfare for Persons with Mental Disorders or Disabilities and the Act on Providing Comprehensive Support for the Daily Life and Life in Society of Persons with Disabilities. It also outlines the changes in mental health policy over the past decades, beginning with the Vision for the Reform of Mental Health and Medical Welfare of 2004, which advocated for a 'transition from hospital-centered care to community-centered care'. The article further presents current practices in mental health-related areas under the community-based integrated care system that also addresses mental disorders-the latest approach to the care of individuals with mental disorders. The changes in the past few decades aimed at promoting community-based care. As a result, while outpatient and home-based services have flourished, the number of psychiatric beds remains high, which is a persisting challenge. Finally, the article discusses the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and mental health services, a policy shift and the necessity of considering mental health in related policies raised by the pandemic in Japan.
Additional Links: PMID-40708428
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40708428,
year = {2025},
author = {Aoki, A and Sugiura, K and Akiyama, T},
title = {Overview of the Japanese mental health services through legislation, policies and recent initiatives: a narrative review.},
journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)},
volume = {37},
number = {3-4},
pages = {397-408},
doi = {10.1080/09540261.2025.2462318},
pmid = {40708428},
issn = {1369-1627},
mesh = {Humans ; Japan ; *Health Policy/legislation & jurisprudence ; *Mental Health Services/legislation & jurisprudence/organization & administration ; *COVID-19 ; *Mental Disorders/therapy ; *Community Mental Health Services/legislation & jurisprudence ; East Asian People ; },
abstract = {In Japan, mental health legislation and policies have evolved, and mental health services have progressively developed in the post-World War II era. This review introduces two essential laws: the Act on Mental Health and Welfare for Persons with Mental Disorders or Disabilities and the Act on Providing Comprehensive Support for the Daily Life and Life in Society of Persons with Disabilities. It also outlines the changes in mental health policy over the past decades, beginning with the Vision for the Reform of Mental Health and Medical Welfare of 2004, which advocated for a 'transition from hospital-centered care to community-centered care'. The article further presents current practices in mental health-related areas under the community-based integrated care system that also addresses mental disorders-the latest approach to the care of individuals with mental disorders. The changes in the past few decades aimed at promoting community-based care. As a result, while outpatient and home-based services have flourished, the number of psychiatric beds remains high, which is a persisting challenge. Finally, the article discusses the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and mental health services, a policy shift and the necessity of considering mental health in related policies raised by the pandemic in Japan.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Japan
*Health Policy/legislation & jurisprudence
*Mental Health Services/legislation & jurisprudence/organization & administration
*COVID-19
*Mental Disorders/therapy
*Community Mental Health Services/legislation & jurisprudence
East Asian People
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Mental health services in Egypt, the Middle East, and North Africa.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England), 37(3-4):306-314.
This review provides insight into the contemporary challenges and initiatives in mental health care across Egypt, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA) region. It examines the structural barriers, including fragmented public health systems and inadequate resource allocation, which hinder access to mental health services. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, prompting innovative approaches like telepsychiatry and the establishment of specialized psychiatric hospitals. Despite advancements in psychiatric education and research, disparities persist, particularly in rural mental health care. Limited funding, workforce shortages, and barriers to accessing medications and post-hospitalization support further compound the issue. International and local efforts aim to address these challenges, with a focus on enhancing child and adolescent mental health services and supporting populations affected by the refugee crisis. Policy reforms, increased financial allocation, and workforce development are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring equitable access to quality mental health care throughout the MENA region. This review underscores the urgent need for collaborative action to improve mental health outcomes and reduce disparities in the region.
Additional Links: PMID-40708426
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40708426,
year = {2025},
author = {Okasha, T and Shaker, NM and El-Gabry, DA},
title = {Mental health services in Egypt, the Middle East, and North Africa.},
journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)},
volume = {37},
number = {3-4},
pages = {306-314},
doi = {10.1080/09540261.2024.2400143},
pmid = {40708426},
issn = {1369-1627},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; Egypt ; Africa, Northern ; Middle East ; *COVID-19 ; *Health Services Accessibility ; Child ; Refugees ; Adolescent ; *Healthcare Disparities ; },
abstract = {This review provides insight into the contemporary challenges and initiatives in mental health care across Egypt, the Middle East, and North Africa (MENA) region. It examines the structural barriers, including fragmented public health systems and inadequate resource allocation, which hinder access to mental health services. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, prompting innovative approaches like telepsychiatry and the establishment of specialized psychiatric hospitals. Despite advancements in psychiatric education and research, disparities persist, particularly in rural mental health care. Limited funding, workforce shortages, and barriers to accessing medications and post-hospitalization support further compound the issue. International and local efforts aim to address these challenges, with a focus on enhancing child and adolescent mental health services and supporting populations affected by the refugee crisis. Policy reforms, increased financial allocation, and workforce development are essential for overcoming these obstacles and ensuring equitable access to quality mental health care throughout the MENA region. This review underscores the urgent need for collaborative action to improve mental health outcomes and reduce disparities in the region.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
Egypt
Africa, Northern
Middle East
*COVID-19
*Health Services Accessibility
Child
Refugees
Adolescent
*Healthcare Disparities
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Mental health services in Croatia-current perspectives and future challenges.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England), 37(3-4):221-228.
We examine the current state and challenges of mental health services in the Republic of Croatia, a Central European country with a population of 3.87 million. Croatia's healthcare system delivers mental health services across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, largely supported by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund, which administers the country's universal healthcare system, ensuring wide accessibility. Key policy frameworks include the Strategic Framework for the Development of Mental Health until 2030 and the Action Plan in Addictions. However, challenges persist, including a lack of community-based approaches, underfunding, and workforce shortages, particularly in child and adolescent psychiatry. The paper also highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and Croatia's 2020 earthquake on mental health services, emphasizing a transition toward telepsychiatry and mobile psychiatric teams. Additionally, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is underscored as a significant public health issue in Croatia.
Additional Links: PMID-40708415
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40708415,
year = {2025},
author = {Rojnic Kuzman, M and Medved, S},
title = {Mental health services in Croatia-current perspectives and future challenges.},
journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)},
volume = {37},
number = {3-4},
pages = {221-228},
doi = {10.1080/09540261.2024.2434576},
pmid = {40708415},
issn = {1369-1627},
mesh = {Croatia ; Humans ; *Mental Health Services/trends/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Telemedicine ; Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/therapy ; Health Services Accessibility ; },
abstract = {We examine the current state and challenges of mental health services in the Republic of Croatia, a Central European country with a population of 3.87 million. Croatia's healthcare system delivers mental health services across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, largely supported by the Croatian Health Insurance Fund, which administers the country's universal healthcare system, ensuring wide accessibility. Key policy frameworks include the Strategic Framework for the Development of Mental Health until 2030 and the Action Plan in Addictions. However, challenges persist, including a lack of community-based approaches, underfunding, and workforce shortages, particularly in child and adolescent psychiatry. The paper also highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and Croatia's 2020 earthquake on mental health services, emphasizing a transition toward telepsychiatry and mobile psychiatric teams. Additionally, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is underscored as a significant public health issue in Croatia.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Croatia
Humans
*Mental Health Services/trends/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Telemedicine
Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/therapy
Health Services Accessibility
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Mental health care services in Switzerland - the post-pandemic state.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England), 37(3-4):315-321.
Mental health care in Switzerland is at a relatively high level worldwide. Nevertheless, as in many other countries, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the entire healthcare system and psychiatry in particular. In addition, the care of people with mental disorders in Switzerland is characterised by numerous special features that distinguish the country from most Western systems. The article provides an overview of the following aspects of mental health care: Epidemiology, pandemic-related developments, health policy and funding, as well as the structure and specific aspects of outpatient, intermediate and inpatient care. Finally, it analyses numerous challenges facing mental health care in Switzerland.
Additional Links: PMID-40708413
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40708413,
year = {2025},
author = {Richter, D and Hepp, U and Jäger, M and Adorjan, K},
title = {Mental health care services in Switzerland - the post-pandemic state.},
journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)},
volume = {37},
number = {3-4},
pages = {315-321},
doi = {10.1080/09540261.2025.2479596},
pmid = {40708413},
issn = {1369-1627},
mesh = {Humans ; Switzerland/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology ; *Health Policy ; },
abstract = {Mental health care in Switzerland is at a relatively high level worldwide. Nevertheless, as in many other countries, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the entire healthcare system and psychiatry in particular. In addition, the care of people with mental disorders in Switzerland is characterised by numerous special features that distinguish the country from most Western systems. The article provides an overview of the following aspects of mental health care: Epidemiology, pandemic-related developments, health policy and funding, as well as the structure and specific aspects of outpatient, intermediate and inpatient care. Finally, it analyses numerous challenges facing mental health care in Switzerland.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Switzerland/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
*Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology
*Health Policy
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Mental health services in Germany - Structures, outcomes and future challenges.
International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England), 37(3-4):253-270.
This narrative review provides an overview of the structure, financing models, and challenges facing the German mental healthcare system for adults. The German mental healthcare system is divided into distinct sectors, including inpatient, outpatient, rehabilitation, and regional complementary services, each with its own financing mechanisms. Statutory health insurance, covering about 88% of the population, funds the majority of the system. Germany allocates 13% of its GDP to healthcare-one of the highest proportions globally-with over 10% of this directed toward mental health. Key challenges include an overemphasis on inpatient services, poor coordination between inpatient and outpatient sectors, insufficient severity-based treatment allocation, limited adherence to clinical guidelines, and a lack of digitalization and routine outcome evaluations. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary reduction in service use and intensified issues with inter-sector collaboration. In the long-term, a healthcare workforce shortage further complicates care delivery. Proposed solutions include regional budgets for integrated care, outcome-based quality assurance, stepped-care models to optimize treatment allocation, and digital infrastructure improvements for better data sharing and transparency. These reforms aim to enhance patient-centered care, improve outcomes, and make more efficient use of resources.
Additional Links: PMID-40708412
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40708412,
year = {2025},
author = {Wiegand, HF and Hölzel, L and Tüscher, O and Lieb, K and Falkai, P and Adorjan, K},
title = {Mental health services in Germany - Structures, outcomes and future challenges.},
journal = {International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England)},
volume = {37},
number = {3-4},
pages = {253-270},
doi = {10.1080/09540261.2025.2479601},
pmid = {40708412},
issn = {1369-1627},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration/economics ; Germany ; *COVID-19 ; *Mental Disorders/therapy ; },
abstract = {This narrative review provides an overview of the structure, financing models, and challenges facing the German mental healthcare system for adults. The German mental healthcare system is divided into distinct sectors, including inpatient, outpatient, rehabilitation, and regional complementary services, each with its own financing mechanisms. Statutory health insurance, covering about 88% of the population, funds the majority of the system. Germany allocates 13% of its GDP to healthcare-one of the highest proportions globally-with over 10% of this directed toward mental health. Key challenges include an overemphasis on inpatient services, poor coordination between inpatient and outpatient sectors, insufficient severity-based treatment allocation, limited adherence to clinical guidelines, and a lack of digitalization and routine outcome evaluations. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a temporary reduction in service use and intensified issues with inter-sector collaboration. In the long-term, a healthcare workforce shortage further complicates care delivery. Proposed solutions include regional budgets for integrated care, outcome-based quality assurance, stepped-care models to optimize treatment allocation, and digital infrastructure improvements for better data sharing and transparency. These reforms aim to enhance patient-centered care, improve outcomes, and make more efficient use of resources.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration/economics
Germany
*COVID-19
*Mental Disorders/therapy
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Molecular profiling of exhaled breath condensate in respiratory diseases.
Annals of medicine, 57(1):2537910.
BACKGROUND: Respiratory disorders, , continue to pose a major global health burden. Their complexity and heterogeneity challenge accurate diagnosis, effective monitoring, and therapeutic decision-making. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) provides a reliable, non-invasive means of sampling the molecular environment of the airways.
AIM: This review presents the state-of-the-art in EBC-based omics approaches-particularly metabolomics and proteomics-to characterize molecular signatures associated with chronic respiratory (e.g. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and rhinitis) and infectious diseases (e.g. COVID-19).
RESULTS: We critically examine findings from studies applying nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS), and sensor-based technologies to analyze EBC across various respiratory conditions. NMR, valued for its reproducibility and minimal sample preparation, consistently discriminates among disease phenotypes, identifies distinct metabotypes, and monitors treatment response over time. MS-based approaches afford enhanced sensitivity and specificity, enabling detailed profiling of inflammatory mediators, such as lipid-derived eicosanoids and amino acid derivatives. Proteomic studies reveal protein-level alterations associated with inflammation and tissue remodeling. In COVID-19 and long COVID, metabolomic and volatile compound profiling distinguishes affected individuals from healthy controls suggesting clinical potential. However, inconsistent sample processing and lack of analytical standardization remain limiting factors.
CONCLUSIONS: EBC profiling shows clear promise for improving diagnosis, monitoring, and stratification in respiratory medicine. Yet, translation into clinical practice is hindered by limited standardization and validation. Broader, longitudinal studies will be essential to establish robust molecular signatures across disease states. This review underscores the timely need to implement breathomics investigations to gain mechanistic insight into the underlying biology of respiratory diseases.
Additional Links: PMID-40708204
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@article {pmid40708204,
year = {2025},
author = {Malerba, M and Purghè, B and Ragnoli, B and Manfredi, M and Baldanzi, G},
title = {Molecular profiling of exhaled breath condensate in respiratory diseases.},
journal = {Annals of medicine},
volume = {57},
number = {1},
pages = {2537910},
doi = {10.1080/07853890.2025.2537910},
pmid = {40708204},
issn = {1365-2060},
mesh = {Humans ; Breath Tests/methods ; *COVID-19/metabolism/diagnosis ; Metabolomics/methods ; Proteomics/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Exhalation ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/diagnosis/metabolism ; Asthma/diagnosis/metabolism ; Mass Spectrometry/methods ; Biomarkers/analysis ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/metabolism ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Respiratory disorders, , continue to pose a major global health burden. Their complexity and heterogeneity challenge accurate diagnosis, effective monitoring, and therapeutic decision-making. Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) provides a reliable, non-invasive means of sampling the molecular environment of the airways.
AIM: This review presents the state-of-the-art in EBC-based omics approaches-particularly metabolomics and proteomics-to characterize molecular signatures associated with chronic respiratory (e.g. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and rhinitis) and infectious diseases (e.g. COVID-19).
RESULTS: We critically examine findings from studies applying nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), mass spectrometry (MS), and sensor-based technologies to analyze EBC across various respiratory conditions. NMR, valued for its reproducibility and minimal sample preparation, consistently discriminates among disease phenotypes, identifies distinct metabotypes, and monitors treatment response over time. MS-based approaches afford enhanced sensitivity and specificity, enabling detailed profiling of inflammatory mediators, such as lipid-derived eicosanoids and amino acid derivatives. Proteomic studies reveal protein-level alterations associated with inflammation and tissue remodeling. In COVID-19 and long COVID, metabolomic and volatile compound profiling distinguishes affected individuals from healthy controls suggesting clinical potential. However, inconsistent sample processing and lack of analytical standardization remain limiting factors.
CONCLUSIONS: EBC profiling shows clear promise for improving diagnosis, monitoring, and stratification in respiratory medicine. Yet, translation into clinical practice is hindered by limited standardization and validation. Broader, longitudinal studies will be essential to establish robust molecular signatures across disease states. This review underscores the timely need to implement breathomics investigations to gain mechanistic insight into the underlying biology of respiratory diseases.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Breath Tests/methods
*COVID-19/metabolism/diagnosis
Metabolomics/methods
Proteomics/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Exhalation
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/diagnosis/metabolism
Asthma/diagnosis/metabolism
Mass Spectrometry/methods
Biomarkers/analysis
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/metabolism
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Tuberculosis infection prevention and control.
The Indian journal of tuberculosis, 72(3):394-400.
Tuberculosis (TB) is the second leading infectious cause of death worldwide, only surpassed by corona virus infection (COVID-19). It is mainly transmitted by the airborne route via droplet nuclei of 1-5 μm in diameter. The four key pillars of TB elimination are "Detect-Treat-Prevent-Build." There are enough evidences of healthcare-associated transmission of TB. Prevention of TB transmission in the healthcare settings is thus an important strategy. The goal of TB infection prevention and control (IPC) is to reduce the likelihood that populations may contract M.tuberculosis by using variety of strategies. The strategies include three levels hierarchy of controls. These include administrative controls, environmental controls, and respiratory protection. This review will discuss the various strategies for TB infection prevention and controls.
Additional Links: PMID-40707095
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40707095,
year = {2025},
author = {Sarkar, M},
title = {Tuberculosis infection prevention and control.},
journal = {The Indian journal of tuberculosis},
volume = {72},
number = {3},
pages = {394-400},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijtb.2024.08.011},
pmid = {40707095},
issn = {0019-5707},
mesh = {Humans ; *Tuberculosis/prevention & control/transmission ; *Infection Control/methods ; *Cross Infection/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB) is the second leading infectious cause of death worldwide, only surpassed by corona virus infection (COVID-19). It is mainly transmitted by the airborne route via droplet nuclei of 1-5 μm in diameter. The four key pillars of TB elimination are "Detect-Treat-Prevent-Build." There are enough evidences of healthcare-associated transmission of TB. Prevention of TB transmission in the healthcare settings is thus an important strategy. The goal of TB infection prevention and control (IPC) is to reduce the likelihood that populations may contract M.tuberculosis by using variety of strategies. The strategies include three levels hierarchy of controls. These include administrative controls, environmental controls, and respiratory protection. This review will discuss the various strategies for TB infection prevention and controls.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Tuberculosis/prevention & control/transmission
*Infection Control/methods
*Cross Infection/prevention & control
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Long Covid in Year 5: Some Progress, Still Many Questions.
Journal of insurance medicine (New York, N.Y.), 52(2):61-65.
Long Covid was first described in 2020. Five years later, progress in disease characterization has been considerable, and definitions continue to evolve. Several disease mechanisms are under study, and evidence for multiple endotypes is accumulating. No clinical biomarker has been identified, nor has an effective therapy been developed. Overlap with other post-infectious syndromes, particularly myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, is now more evident. For most individuals, symptoms of long Covid progressively disappear over time. Recurrent Covid-19 infections are now an important contributor to the pool of affected individuals. While symptoms limit activity in as many as 20%, inability to work is less common. The anticipated surge of disability claims from insured individuals has not materialized.
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@article {pmid40707035,
year = {2025},
author = {Meagher, T},
title = {Long Covid in Year 5: Some Progress, Still Many Questions.},
journal = {Journal of insurance medicine (New York, N.Y.)},
volume = {52},
number = {2},
pages = {61-65},
doi = {10.17849/insm-52-2-1-5.2},
pmid = {40707035},
issn = {0743-6661},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/physiopathology ; Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Long Covid was first described in 2020. Five years later, progress in disease characterization has been considerable, and definitions continue to evolve. Several disease mechanisms are under study, and evidence for multiple endotypes is accumulating. No clinical biomarker has been identified, nor has an effective therapy been developed. Overlap with other post-infectious syndromes, particularly myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, is now more evident. For most individuals, symptoms of long Covid progressively disappear over time. Recurrent Covid-19 infections are now an important contributor to the pool of affected individuals. While symptoms limit activity in as many as 20%, inability to work is less common. The anticipated surge of disability claims from insured individuals has not materialized.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/physiopathology
Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-24
Validated eating disorder screening tools for paediatric populations: A systematic review.
Psychiatry research, 351:116631 pii:S0165-1781(25)00279-3 [Epub ahead of print].
IMPORTANCE: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in paediatric eating disorder (ED) cases, highlighting the need for validated screening tools, particularly for pre-adolescent children, to enable early detection.
OBJECTIVE: This review aims to systematically evaluate the validation and psychometric properties of screening tools for assessing EDs in the paediatric population, with a focus on pre-adolescents (under 12 years).
EVIDENCE REVIEW: A systematic search of Medline (OVID) and PsycInfo (OVID) databases was conducted following Cochrane Rapid Review Guidelines, registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023465366). Studies were selected based on seven criteria, including ED diagnoses (anorexia nervosa, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) in children under 12. A random 20% sample was cross-checked for errors. Data extraction followed a pre-defined template with additional independent checks. The primary outcome was the predictive validity of the screening tools.
RESULTS: Of 3,911 citations screened, 28 studies (N=25,444) were included, with six focusing on children under 12 (N=1,430). The methods varied, with 18 studies using clinical interviews and 10 using validated questionnaires. Most tools achieved a Level 3 rating on The Rational Clinical Examination Levels of Evidence, indicating methodological limitations. The child version of the Eating Attitudes Test (ChEAT) had the most evidence, though it has not been validated for DSM-5 criteria.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: There is a significant gap in validated ED screening tools for children under 12. Future research should focus on developing tools for this population to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-40706277
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@article {pmid40706277,
year = {2025},
author = {Jabs, M and Pennesi, JL and Baillie, S and Hay, P and Mitchison, D and Norton, L and Prnjak, K and Wade, TD and Hart, L},
title = {Validated eating disorder screening tools for paediatric populations: A systematic review.},
journal = {Psychiatry research},
volume = {351},
number = {},
pages = {116631},
doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2025.116631},
pmid = {40706277},
issn = {1872-7123},
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a rise in paediatric eating disorder (ED) cases, highlighting the need for validated screening tools, particularly for pre-adolescent children, to enable early detection.
OBJECTIVE: This review aims to systematically evaluate the validation and psychometric properties of screening tools for assessing EDs in the paediatric population, with a focus on pre-adolescents (under 12 years).
EVIDENCE REVIEW: A systematic search of Medline (OVID) and PsycInfo (OVID) databases was conducted following Cochrane Rapid Review Guidelines, registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023465366). Studies were selected based on seven criteria, including ED diagnoses (anorexia nervosa, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder) in children under 12. A random 20% sample was cross-checked for errors. Data extraction followed a pre-defined template with additional independent checks. The primary outcome was the predictive validity of the screening tools.
RESULTS: Of 3,911 citations screened, 28 studies (N=25,444) were included, with six focusing on children under 12 (N=1,430). The methods varied, with 18 studies using clinical interviews and 10 using validated questionnaires. Most tools achieved a Level 3 rating on The Rational Clinical Examination Levels of Evidence, indicating methodological limitations. The child version of the Eating Attitudes Test (ChEAT) had the most evidence, though it has not been validated for DSM-5 criteria.
CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: There is a significant gap in validated ED screening tools for children under 12. Future research should focus on developing tools for this population to improve early detection and treatment outcomes.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Surveillance of Viral Respiratory Infections within Maximum-Security Prison, Australia.
Emerging infectious diseases, 31(8):1527-1536.
Limited surveillance data have hindered understanding of SARS-CoV-2 transmission within prisons. We integrated routine surveillance data with viral sequencing to investigate transmission dynamics and associated factors during a Delta variant outbreak in a maximum-security prison in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Infection incidence and associated factors were determined by using person-time and Cox regression. We generated transmission chains by integrating epidemiologic and viral sequencing data. Of 1,562 patients, SARS-CoV-2 infection was diagnosed in 169 (11%), predominantly acquired in prison and asymptomatic. Prisonwide testing identified substantial unrecognized transmission, and 4 subvariants indicated multiple viral introductions. Infection was associated with housing location, having a cellmate (regardless of infection status), and vaccination status. Our findings underscore the inadequacy of symptom-based testing and the efficacy of entry-quarantine, strategic housing, extensive testing, and vaccination in reducing transmission. This integrated approach to surveillance and genomic sequencing offers a valuable model for enhancing infectious disease surveillance in correctional settings.
Additional Links: PMID-40705014
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@article {pmid40705014,
year = {2025},
author = {Legrand, NM and Bull, RA and Hajarizadeh, B and Lloyd, AR and Johnston, K and Issa, K and Harvey, C and Arnott, A and Dwyer, DE and Sintchenko, V and Grant, L and Dore, GJ and Kaldor, J and Martinello, M},
title = {Surveillance of Viral Respiratory Infections within Maximum-Security Prison, Australia.},
journal = {Emerging infectious diseases},
volume = {31},
number = {8},
pages = {1527-1536},
doi = {10.3201/eid3108.240571},
pmid = {40705014},
issn = {1080-6059},
mesh = {Humans ; *Prisons ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/virology/diagnosis ; Male ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification ; Adult ; Female ; Middle Aged ; New South Wales/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Young Adult ; Prisoners ; Australia/epidemiology ; Aged ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology ; Disease Outbreaks ; Adolescent ; },
abstract = {Limited surveillance data have hindered understanding of SARS-CoV-2 transmission within prisons. We integrated routine surveillance data with viral sequencing to investigate transmission dynamics and associated factors during a Delta variant outbreak in a maximum-security prison in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Infection incidence and associated factors were determined by using person-time and Cox regression. We generated transmission chains by integrating epidemiologic and viral sequencing data. Of 1,562 patients, SARS-CoV-2 infection was diagnosed in 169 (11%), predominantly acquired in prison and asymptomatic. Prisonwide testing identified substantial unrecognized transmission, and 4 subvariants indicated multiple viral introductions. Infection was associated with housing location, having a cellmate (regardless of infection status), and vaccination status. Our findings underscore the inadequacy of symptom-based testing and the efficacy of entry-quarantine, strategic housing, extensive testing, and vaccination in reducing transmission. This integrated approach to surveillance and genomic sequencing offers a valuable model for enhancing infectious disease surveillance in correctional settings.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Prisons
*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/virology/diagnosis
Male
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification
Adult
Female
Middle Aged
New South Wales/epidemiology
Incidence
Young Adult
Prisoners
Australia/epidemiology
Aged
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology
Disease Outbreaks
Adolescent
RevDate: 2025-07-24
The long reach of influenza and other respiratory viruses: from acute epithelial injury to post-viral lung disease.
Clinical microbiology reviews [Epub ahead of print].
SUMMARYRespiratory viral infections cause extensive cell death in the lung epithelium, resulting from both direct viral action and exuberant immune responses. Recovery following viral infection requires rapid and coordinated repair programs, ensuring the replacement of the damaged tissue through proliferation, migration, and differentiation of respiratory epithelial progenitor cells. Viral infection and the resulting inflammatory milieu alter host gene expression. Notably, growing evidence indicates that these infections can induce long-term changes in epithelial progenitor cells, which persist even after the infection has resolved. These alterations may play a key role in the development of post-viral lung disease (PVLD). In this review, we discuss current knowledge regarding respiratory viral infections and how these may alter the gene expression and function of epithelial progeny cells arising from the surviving progenitors. We do so by exploring the influenza virus as an example and comparing it with what is known about other important respiratory viruses, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus (HRV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2). We highlight the impact of respiratory viral infection and ensuing inflammation on lung epithelial memory, considering the importance of viral strains, and discuss potential new therapeutic strategies that could maximize long-term lung health.
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@article {pmid40704759,
year = {2025},
author = {Janas, PP and Rozario, C and Lucas, CD and Hiemstra, PS and Schwarze, J and Chauché, C},
title = {The long reach of influenza and other respiratory viruses: from acute epithelial injury to post-viral lung disease.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0024324},
doi = {10.1128/cmr.00243-24},
pmid = {40704759},
issn = {1098-6618},
abstract = {SUMMARYRespiratory viral infections cause extensive cell death in the lung epithelium, resulting from both direct viral action and exuberant immune responses. Recovery following viral infection requires rapid and coordinated repair programs, ensuring the replacement of the damaged tissue through proliferation, migration, and differentiation of respiratory epithelial progenitor cells. Viral infection and the resulting inflammatory milieu alter host gene expression. Notably, growing evidence indicates that these infections can induce long-term changes in epithelial progenitor cells, which persist even after the infection has resolved. These alterations may play a key role in the development of post-viral lung disease (PVLD). In this review, we discuss current knowledge regarding respiratory viral infections and how these may alter the gene expression and function of epithelial progeny cells arising from the surviving progenitors. We do so by exploring the influenza virus as an example and comparing it with what is known about other important respiratory viruses, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), rhinovirus (HRV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2). We highlight the impact of respiratory viral infection and ensuing inflammation on lung epithelial memory, considering the importance of viral strains, and discuss potential new therapeutic strategies that could maximize long-term lung health.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Real-time telerehabilitation for chronic respiratory disease and post-COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Journal of telemedicine and telecare, 31(7):991-1004.
IntroductionTelerehabilitation may facilitate access and adherence to pulmonary rehabilitation. Given the heterogeneity in existing telerehabilitation studies, it is still necessary to identify the most effective, safe, and cost-efficient strategy for clinical implementation, as well as the necessary level of supervision during telerehabilitation. The aim of this review was to determine the effectiveness and safety of real-time telerehabilitation for chronic respiratory diseases and post-COVID-19 compared to no-rehabilitation, center-based rehabilitation or asynchronous telerehabilitation.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted in six databases until 30 April 2023. Clinical trials of real-time telerehabilitation supervised via videoconference in adults with diagnosis of any chronic respiratory disease or post-COVID-19 were included.ResultsTwelve studies with 1540 participants were included. Very-low to moderate certainty evidence showed no difference between real-time telerehabilitation and center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. Studies included in this review reported high adherence rates to real-time telerehabilitation and completion rate, with no difference compared to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. When compared to no-rehabilitation, the results of this review provide low-certainty evidence that real-time telerehabilitation may have a potential effect on exercise capacity at the end of the intervention, with no better results in others outcomes. No studies comparing real-time telerehabilitation with asynchronous telerehabilitation were found.ConclusionReal-time telerehabilitation is safe and it seems to promote similar effects to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. However, the certainty of this evidence ranged from very-low to moderate. Therefore, real-time telerehabilitation offers an alternative to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation models. This review provides a clear definition of real-time telerehabilitation, facilitating results interpretation and clinical applicability.
Additional Links: PMID-38594927
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@article {pmid38594927,
year = {2025},
author = {Timoteo, EF and Silva, DF and Oliveira, TM and José, A and Malaguti, C},
title = {Real-time telerehabilitation for chronic respiratory disease and post-COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of telemedicine and telecare},
volume = {31},
number = {7},
pages = {991-1004},
doi = {10.1177/1357633X241241572},
pmid = {38594927},
issn = {1758-1109},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation/epidemiology ; *Telerehabilitation ; Chronic Disease ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {IntroductionTelerehabilitation may facilitate access and adherence to pulmonary rehabilitation. Given the heterogeneity in existing telerehabilitation studies, it is still necessary to identify the most effective, safe, and cost-efficient strategy for clinical implementation, as well as the necessary level of supervision during telerehabilitation. The aim of this review was to determine the effectiveness and safety of real-time telerehabilitation for chronic respiratory diseases and post-COVID-19 compared to no-rehabilitation, center-based rehabilitation or asynchronous telerehabilitation.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted in six databases until 30 April 2023. Clinical trials of real-time telerehabilitation supervised via videoconference in adults with diagnosis of any chronic respiratory disease or post-COVID-19 were included.ResultsTwelve studies with 1540 participants were included. Very-low to moderate certainty evidence showed no difference between real-time telerehabilitation and center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. Studies included in this review reported high adherence rates to real-time telerehabilitation and completion rate, with no difference compared to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. When compared to no-rehabilitation, the results of this review provide low-certainty evidence that real-time telerehabilitation may have a potential effect on exercise capacity at the end of the intervention, with no better results in others outcomes. No studies comparing real-time telerehabilitation with asynchronous telerehabilitation were found.ConclusionReal-time telerehabilitation is safe and it seems to promote similar effects to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation. However, the certainty of this evidence ranged from very-low to moderate. Therefore, real-time telerehabilitation offers an alternative to center-based pulmonary rehabilitation models. This review provides a clear definition of real-time telerehabilitation, facilitating results interpretation and clinical applicability.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/rehabilitation/epidemiology
*Telerehabilitation
Chronic Disease
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-25
CmpDate: 2025-07-25
Clinical Application of MRI in Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Bibliometric Analysis.
Current medical imaging, 20:e15734056274864.
BACKGROUND: Currently, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to remain in the pandemic stage, leading to severe challenges in the global public healthcare system. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods have played an important role in the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the structural evaluation of the affected organs. Reviewing and summarizing the application of MRI has significant clinical implications for COVID-19.
OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to analyze literature related to the application of MRI in COVID-19 using bibliometric tools, to explore the research status, hotspots, and developmental trends in this field, and to provide a reference for the application of MRI in the clinical diagnosis and evaluation of COVID-19.
METHODS: We used the Web of Science Core Collection database to search and collect relevant literature on the use of MRI in COVID-19. The authors, institutes, countries, journals, and keyword modules of the bibliometric analysis software CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to analyze and plot the network map.
RESULTS: A total of 1506 relevant articles were shortlisted through the search; the earliest study was published in 2019, showing an overall upward trend every year. The research was mainly presented as published articles. Clinical neurology was found to be the primary discipline. The United States had the highest publication volume and influence in this field. Countries around the world cooperated more closely. The Cureus Journal of Medical Science was the main periodical to publish articles. Institutes, such as Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic, and Massachusetts General Hospital, have published a large number of papers. Some of the high-frequency keywords were "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "magnetic resonance", "myocarditis", and "cardiac magnetic resonance imaging". The keyword clustering study showed that the current research mainly focuses on five "hot" directions.
CONCLUSION: There is a need to strengthen cross-teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration in the future to completely explore the positive role of MRI in COVID-19 and to discover breakthroughs for the challenges in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19.
Additional Links: PMID-38415462
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@article {pmid38415462,
year = {2024},
author = {Hu, J and Xiong, J and Jiang, J and Wei, Y and Ling, F and Luo, S and Chen, J and Su, C and Wang, X and Qi, W and Liang, F},
title = {Clinical Application of MRI in Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Current medical imaging},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {e15734056274864},
doi = {10.2174/0115734056274864231227071026},
pmid = {38415462},
issn = {1573-4056},
mesh = {*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging ; *Bibliometrics ; Humans ; *Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Currently, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to remain in the pandemic stage, leading to severe challenges in the global public healthcare system. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods have played an important role in the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the structural evaluation of the affected organs. Reviewing and summarizing the application of MRI has significant clinical implications for COVID-19.
OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to analyze literature related to the application of MRI in COVID-19 using bibliometric tools, to explore the research status, hotspots, and developmental trends in this field, and to provide a reference for the application of MRI in the clinical diagnosis and evaluation of COVID-19.
METHODS: We used the Web of Science Core Collection database to search and collect relevant literature on the use of MRI in COVID-19. The authors, institutes, countries, journals, and keyword modules of the bibliometric analysis software CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to analyze and plot the network map.
RESULTS: A total of 1506 relevant articles were shortlisted through the search; the earliest study was published in 2019, showing an overall upward trend every year. The research was mainly presented as published articles. Clinical neurology was found to be the primary discipline. The United States had the highest publication volume and influence in this field. Countries around the world cooperated more closely. The Cureus Journal of Medical Science was the main periodical to publish articles. Institutes, such as Harvard Medical School, Mayo Clinic, and Massachusetts General Hospital, have published a large number of papers. Some of the high-frequency keywords were "COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "magnetic resonance", "myocarditis", and "cardiac magnetic resonance imaging". The keyword clustering study showed that the current research mainly focuses on five "hot" directions.
CONCLUSION: There is a need to strengthen cross-teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration in the future to completely explore the positive role of MRI in COVID-19 and to discover breakthroughs for the challenges in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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hide MeSH Terms
*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging
*Bibliometrics
Humans
*Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Progress in the Application of Stellate Ganglion Block in Non-Analgesic Fields.
Zhongguo yi xue ke xue yuan xue bao. Acta Academiae Medicinae Sinicae, 47(3):462-469.
Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a specific type of peripheral nerve block in which local anesthetics and/or steroids are injected around the stellate ganglia.In the past,SGB was mainly used to alleviate pain-related syndromes.With the development of ultrasound technology,SGB has been widely used in non-analgesic fields,demonstrating significant therapeutic effects on arrhythmias,hot flashes,psychiatric disorders,cerebrovascular diseases,insomnia,and post coronavirus disease-2019 conditions in recent years.This study reviews the progress in the application of SGB in the non-analgesic fields.
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@article {pmid40704480,
year = {2025},
author = {Ye, PC and Ren, Y and Su, WL and Kong, H},
title = {Progress in the Application of Stellate Ganglion Block in Non-Analgesic Fields.},
journal = {Zhongguo yi xue ke xue yuan xue bao. Acta Academiae Medicinae Sinicae},
volume = {47},
number = {3},
pages = {462-469},
doi = {10.3881/j.issn.1000-503X.16247},
pmid = {40704480},
issn = {1000-503X},
mesh = {*Stellate Ganglion ; Humans ; *Autonomic Nerve Block/methods ; Anesthetics, Local/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a specific type of peripheral nerve block in which local anesthetics and/or steroids are injected around the stellate ganglia.In the past,SGB was mainly used to alleviate pain-related syndromes.With the development of ultrasound technology,SGB has been widely used in non-analgesic fields,demonstrating significant therapeutic effects on arrhythmias,hot flashes,psychiatric disorders,cerebrovascular diseases,insomnia,and post coronavirus disease-2019 conditions in recent years.This study reviews the progress in the application of SGB in the non-analgesic fields.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Stellate Ganglion
Humans
*Autonomic Nerve Block/methods
Anesthetics, Local/administration & dosage
COVID-19
RevDate: 2025-07-24
Update on sexually transmitted infections in Korea: a narrative review.
Ewha medical journal, 47(4):e52.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to pose significant public health challenges in Korea, with syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, Mycoplasma genitalium, and herpes simplex virus (HSV) being the most prevalent. This review provides an updated overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of these significant STIs in Korea, highlighting recent trends and concerns. Syphilis incidence rates have fluctuated due to changes in surveillance systems. Starting in 2024, syphilis will be reclassified as a nationally notifiable infectious disease (category 2). Gonorrhea remains a concern due to increasing antibiotic resistance, including the emergence of extensively drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains, underscoring the need for vigilant antimicrobial stewardship. Chlamydia continues to be the most commonly reported STI, although its incidence has declined during the COVID-19 pandemic. M. genitalium has gained attention as a significant STI with rising antibiotic resistance issues, necessitating updated treatment guidelines and consideration of resistance testing. HSV-2 remains a common cause of genital herpes, with steady incidence rates reported. Updated diagnostic methods, including nucleic acid amplification tests, and revised treatment guidelines are presented to effectively address these infections. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on other STIs within Korea remains unclear, necessitating further research. Changes in treatment guidelines, such as the recommendation of doxycycline as first-line therapy for chlamydia, reflect evolving evidence and resistance patterns. The importance of updated diagnostic tools, including resistance testing for M. genitalium, is emphasized to improve treatment outcomes. Continued efforts in education, prevention, and research are essential to manage and mitigate the impact of STIs on public health in Korea.
Additional Links: PMID-40703998
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@article {pmid40703998,
year = {2024},
author = {Kim, CJ},
title = {Update on sexually transmitted infections in Korea: a narrative review.},
journal = {Ewha medical journal},
volume = {47},
number = {4},
pages = {e52},
pmid = {40703998},
issn = {2234-2591},
abstract = {Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to pose significant public health challenges in Korea, with syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, Mycoplasma genitalium, and herpes simplex virus (HSV) being the most prevalent. This review provides an updated overview of the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of these significant STIs in Korea, highlighting recent trends and concerns. Syphilis incidence rates have fluctuated due to changes in surveillance systems. Starting in 2024, syphilis will be reclassified as a nationally notifiable infectious disease (category 2). Gonorrhea remains a concern due to increasing antibiotic resistance, including the emergence of extensively drug-resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae strains, underscoring the need for vigilant antimicrobial stewardship. Chlamydia continues to be the most commonly reported STI, although its incidence has declined during the COVID-19 pandemic. M. genitalium has gained attention as a significant STI with rising antibiotic resistance issues, necessitating updated treatment guidelines and consideration of resistance testing. HSV-2 remains a common cause of genital herpes, with steady incidence rates reported. Updated diagnostic methods, including nucleic acid amplification tests, and revised treatment guidelines are presented to effectively address these infections. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on other STIs within Korea remains unclear, necessitating further research. Changes in treatment guidelines, such as the recommendation of doxycycline as first-line therapy for chlamydia, reflect evolving evidence and resistance patterns. The importance of updated diagnostic tools, including resistance testing for M. genitalium, is emphasized to improve treatment outcomes. Continued efforts in education, prevention, and research are essential to manage and mitigate the impact of STIs on public health in Korea.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
Exploring the impact of online education on student engagement in higher education in post-COVID-19: what students want to get?.
Frontiers in psychology, 16:1574886.
The sudden outbreak of COVID-19 has led to an unprecedented impact on traditional higher education classrooms. To ensure that students can continue receiving quality education, online learning has become a mainstream mode of instruction. Therefore, increasing student engagement become a key priority for teachers in online teaching contexts. Few reviews examine student engagement in education in the post-COVID-19 era. To address this gap, the present study aims to explore the key factors that influence student engagement in classroom settings in this context. We identified 30 papers related to our research focus from 498 articles retrieved from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, following the 2020 PRISMA framework. After reviewing related studies, this study examined the characteristics of student engagement about cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions. We also analyzed the impact of online education on student engagement. Our findings suggest that emotional, cognitive, and behavioral engagement are interconnected and influence one another. In addition, teachers' support for students' cognitive and emotional needs plays a vital role in fostering their behavioral engagement. This article can help educators better understand the definition of engagement and the factors that influence student engagement in the classroom.
Additional Links: PMID-40703719
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40703719,
year = {2025},
author = {Deng, Z and Yang, Z},
title = {Exploring the impact of online education on student engagement in higher education in post-COVID-19: what students want to get?.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1574886},
pmid = {40703719},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {The sudden outbreak of COVID-19 has led to an unprecedented impact on traditional higher education classrooms. To ensure that students can continue receiving quality education, online learning has become a mainstream mode of instruction. Therefore, increasing student engagement become a key priority for teachers in online teaching contexts. Few reviews examine student engagement in education in the post-COVID-19 era. To address this gap, the present study aims to explore the key factors that influence student engagement in classroom settings in this context. We identified 30 papers related to our research focus from 498 articles retrieved from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, following the 2020 PRISMA framework. After reviewing related studies, this study examined the characteristics of student engagement about cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions. We also analyzed the impact of online education on student engagement. Our findings suggest that emotional, cognitive, and behavioral engagement are interconnected and influence one another. In addition, teachers' support for students' cognitive and emotional needs plays a vital role in fostering their behavioral engagement. This article can help educators better understand the definition of engagement and the factors that influence student engagement in the classroom.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
Broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccines: integrated strategies to combat viral diversity.
Expert review of vaccines [Epub ahead of print].
INTRODUCTION: The early 21st century witnessed three consecutive public health emergencies caused by Betacoronavirus infections, drawing considerable global attention on the hazards posed by Betacoronaviruses. Vaccines proved instrumental in mitigating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, yet the persistent emergence of novel variants underscores the necessity for continuous development of updated vaccines tailored to circulating strains. In addition, new coronavirus outbreaks or the reemerging of previously prevalent coronaviruses may occur in the future.
AREAS COVERED: Broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccines, especially pan-coronavirus vaccines, can serve as powerful weapons against known and unknown coronavirus risks. This article presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccine development, identifies persistent challenges, and outlines strategic directions for vaccine development. It aims to provide essential references and strategic considerations for broad-spectrum or universal coronavirus vaccines.
EXPERT OPINION: Prioritizing Betacoronavirus-focused vaccines may provide practical near-term solutions, while long-term success hinges on integrating AI and structural biology for precision engineering. Future efforts must emphasize durable immunity, mucosal strategies, and adaptability to viral diversity. Collaboration across computational, immunological, and virological fields will be essential to achieve universal coronavirus protection.
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@article {pmid40702967,
year = {2025},
author = {He, Q and Zhang, Y and Fu, Z and Ma, X and Liang, Z},
title = {Broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccines: integrated strategies to combat viral diversity.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2025.2538561},
pmid = {40702967},
issn = {1744-8395},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The early 21st century witnessed three consecutive public health emergencies caused by Betacoronavirus infections, drawing considerable global attention on the hazards posed by Betacoronaviruses. Vaccines proved instrumental in mitigating the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, yet the persistent emergence of novel variants underscores the necessity for continuous development of updated vaccines tailored to circulating strains. In addition, new coronavirus outbreaks or the reemerging of previously prevalent coronaviruses may occur in the future.
AREAS COVERED: Broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccines, especially pan-coronavirus vaccines, can serve as powerful weapons against known and unknown coronavirus risks. This article presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in broad-spectrum coronavirus vaccine development, identifies persistent challenges, and outlines strategic directions for vaccine development. It aims to provide essential references and strategic considerations for broad-spectrum or universal coronavirus vaccines.
EXPERT OPINION: Prioritizing Betacoronavirus-focused vaccines may provide practical near-term solutions, while long-term success hinges on integrating AI and structural biology for precision engineering. Future efforts must emphasize durable immunity, mucosal strategies, and adaptability to viral diversity. Collaboration across computational, immunological, and virological fields will be essential to achieve universal coronavirus protection.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Extracellular DNA, hyaluronic acid, HIF pathways, and LncRNAs as predictive biomarkers of severe COVID-19.
Virology journal, 22(1):252.
The clinical course of COVID-19 ranges from mild symptoms to severe complications, and common laboratory markers such as D-dimer, ferritin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) often do not accurately predict which patients will develop severe disease. In this study, we reviewed current literature and analyzed additional data to assess emerging biomarkers that may help identify high-risk cases earlier. These include circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) produced during neutrophil extracellular trap formation (NETosis), hyaluronic acid (HA), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) isoforms, and related long non-coding RNAs such as HAS2-AS1 and HIF1-AS1. Increased levels of cfDNA/NETs, HA, and elevated expression of HIF isoforms and their lncRNAs are closely associated with key features of severe COVID-19, including immune-related blood clotting, low oxygen levels, vascular damage, and chronic inflammation. These biomarkers show promise for use in risk assessment tools that could support earlier clinical decisions and improve outcomes in patients with COVID-19.
Additional Links: PMID-40702494
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@article {pmid40702494,
year = {2025},
author = {Dubrovskyi, E and Drevytska, T and Portnychenko, A and Dosenko, V and Halabitska, I and Petakh, P and Kainov, DE and Kamyshnyi, O},
title = {Extracellular DNA, hyaluronic acid, HIF pathways, and LncRNAs as predictive biomarkers of severe COVID-19.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {252},
pmid = {40702494},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/blood/metabolism ; *Hyaluronic Acid/blood ; Biomarkers/blood ; *RNA, Long Noncoding/blood ; *Cell-Free Nucleic Acids/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Extracellular Traps/metabolism ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The clinical course of COVID-19 ranges from mild symptoms to severe complications, and common laboratory markers such as D-dimer, ferritin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) often do not accurately predict which patients will develop severe disease. In this study, we reviewed current literature and analyzed additional data to assess emerging biomarkers that may help identify high-risk cases earlier. These include circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) produced during neutrophil extracellular trap formation (NETosis), hyaluronic acid (HA), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) isoforms, and related long non-coding RNAs such as HAS2-AS1 and HIF1-AS1. Increased levels of cfDNA/NETs, HA, and elevated expression of HIF isoforms and their lncRNAs are closely associated with key features of severe COVID-19, including immune-related blood clotting, low oxygen levels, vascular damage, and chronic inflammation. These biomarkers show promise for use in risk assessment tools that could support earlier clinical decisions and improve outcomes in patients with COVID-19.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/blood/metabolism
*Hyaluronic Acid/blood
Biomarkers/blood
*RNA, Long Noncoding/blood
*Cell-Free Nucleic Acids/blood
SARS-CoV-2
Extracellular Traps/metabolism
Severity of Illness Index
*Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1/metabolism
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
The significance of studying high-consequence pathogens in their natural reservoirs.
Advances in virus research, 122:99-112.
Concern over spillover events caused by high-consequence pathogens has grown in recent years due to the increased occurrence of such events, and because the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how severe the consequences of spillover events can be. As such, there is escalading interest in uncovering the factors that make spillover events more likely, specifically for high-consequence pathogens. An important aspect of this work involves researching how high-consequence pathogens interact with their reservoir hosts. Thus, this chapter discusses the importance of studying high-consequence pathogens in their reservoir hosts, specifically in experimental laboratory settings, with a special emphasis on Sin Nombre virus and Lassa virus, and their respective rodent reservoir hosts, Peromyscus maniculatus and Mastomys natalensis. Value gained from this research, as well as the current limitations faced when conducting this work are also discussed. Overall, this work helps to shed light on various aspects of these pathogens such as their transmission patterns, pathogenesis (and lack thereof), and mechanisms of persistence in their reservoir hosts. Limitations include a need for highly developed laboratory infrastructure, demanding funding requirements, and a lack of compatible reagents for the exotic species that are often the subject of these studies. Continued interest and research is needed to expand this work to include host reservoirs of other high consequence pathogens so that the risks of future spillover events can be mitigated as best as possible.
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@article {pmid40701750,
year = {2025},
author = {Klassen, L and Prévost, J and Safronetz, D},
title = {The significance of studying high-consequence pathogens in their natural reservoirs.},
journal = {Advances in virus research},
volume = {122},
number = {},
pages = {99-112},
doi = {10.1016/bs.aivir.2025.03.001},
pmid = {40701750},
issn = {1557-8399},
mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Reservoirs/virology ; *COVID-19/transmission/virology/epidemiology ; *Peromyscus/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Humans ; *Lassa virus/pathogenicity ; Lassa Fever/transmission/virology ; },
abstract = {Concern over spillover events caused by high-consequence pathogens has grown in recent years due to the increased occurrence of such events, and because the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how severe the consequences of spillover events can be. As such, there is escalading interest in uncovering the factors that make spillover events more likely, specifically for high-consequence pathogens. An important aspect of this work involves researching how high-consequence pathogens interact with their reservoir hosts. Thus, this chapter discusses the importance of studying high-consequence pathogens in their reservoir hosts, specifically in experimental laboratory settings, with a special emphasis on Sin Nombre virus and Lassa virus, and their respective rodent reservoir hosts, Peromyscus maniculatus and Mastomys natalensis. Value gained from this research, as well as the current limitations faced when conducting this work are also discussed. Overall, this work helps to shed light on various aspects of these pathogens such as their transmission patterns, pathogenesis (and lack thereof), and mechanisms of persistence in their reservoir hosts. Limitations include a need for highly developed laboratory infrastructure, demanding funding requirements, and a lack of compatible reagents for the exotic species that are often the subject of these studies. Continued interest and research is needed to expand this work to include host reservoirs of other high consequence pathogens so that the risks of future spillover events can be mitigated as best as possible.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Animals
*Disease Reservoirs/virology
*COVID-19/transmission/virology/epidemiology
*Peromyscus/virology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Humans
*Lassa virus/pathogenicity
Lassa Fever/transmission/virology
RevDate: 2025-07-23
Mycobacterium tuberculosis methyltransferases as alternative strategies to combat drug resistant tuberculosis.
International journal of biological macromolecules pii:S0141-8130(25)06755-8 [Epub ahead of print].
Tuberculosis (TB) is a health concern resulting in 10.8 million cases every year. In 2024, TB had the highest fatalities second only to COVID-19. Global TB management has become difficult due to rise of multi-drug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB. Therefore, novel approaches must be developed to fight with M.tb infection. Studies on many strategies like pathogen-centric, host-directed therapeutics, antimicrobial peptides, nano-based drug delivery, and more are still being explored to develop novel therapeutics. One such important target i.e., pathogen associated Methyltransferases (Mtases) used along above-mentioned strategies can be advantageous as targeting Mtases are involved in various cellular processes like mycolic acid synthesis, lipid metabolism, immune evasion, and DNA repair. Mtases are a class of enzymes that transfer the methyl group to their substrate. There are 121 Mtases that are encoded by the genome of M.tb are essential for both the occurrence of drug-resistant tuberculosis and bacterial survival. This review has covered various approaches in treating drug-resistant tuberculosis, with a particular emphasis on Mtases for the creation of innovative treatments for drug development. Thus, Targeting Mtases could give more effective treatments against MDR and XDR-TB.
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@article {pmid40701476,
year = {2025},
author = {Choudhary, K and Tanweer, S and Choudhary, MZ and Grover, S},
title = {Mycobacterium tuberculosis methyltransferases as alternative strategies to combat drug resistant tuberculosis.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {146198},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.146198},
pmid = {40701476},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB) is a health concern resulting in 10.8 million cases every year. In 2024, TB had the highest fatalities second only to COVID-19. Global TB management has become difficult due to rise of multi-drug resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) TB. Therefore, novel approaches must be developed to fight with M.tb infection. Studies on many strategies like pathogen-centric, host-directed therapeutics, antimicrobial peptides, nano-based drug delivery, and more are still being explored to develop novel therapeutics. One such important target i.e., pathogen associated Methyltransferases (Mtases) used along above-mentioned strategies can be advantageous as targeting Mtases are involved in various cellular processes like mycolic acid synthesis, lipid metabolism, immune evasion, and DNA repair. Mtases are a class of enzymes that transfer the methyl group to their substrate. There are 121 Mtases that are encoded by the genome of M.tb are essential for both the occurrence of drug-resistant tuberculosis and bacterial survival. This review has covered various approaches in treating drug-resistant tuberculosis, with a particular emphasis on Mtases for the creation of innovative treatments for drug development. Thus, Targeting Mtases could give more effective treatments against MDR and XDR-TB.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
mRNA vaccines: Emerging opportunities for herpesvirus prevention and therapeutic intervention.
International journal of biological macromolecules, 321(Pt 1):146204 pii:S0141-8130(25)06761-3 [Epub ahead of print].
Herpesviruses infect over 90 % of the global population, imposing a significant disease burden worldwide. The complex lifecycle of herpesviruses, characterized by both lytic infection and latency, poses substantial challenges to vaccine development. To date, among the nine known human herpesviruses, only varicella-zoster virus (VZV) has a licensed commercial vaccine, leaving an urgent need for novel and broadly protective vaccine strategies against the remaining members of this viral family. mRNA vaccine platforms, which allow in situ expression of high levels of antigenic proteins without the risk of genomic integration, offer promising advantages in safety and immunogenicity. Their success during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted their potential for rapid and effective vaccine development. In this review, we first summarize the infection and latency mechanisms of the nine human herpesviruses. We then comprehensively examine recent advances in mRNA vaccine research targeting these viruses, including antigen design, structural optimization, immune protection profiles, and safety assessments. Finally, we discuss current limitations and bottlenecks in herpesvirus vaccine development, with the goal of informing future efforts toward the design of broad-spectrum, safe, and effective herpesvirus vaccines.
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@article {pmid40701471,
year = {2025},
author = {Cai, W and Cai, M and Wu, M and Gao, X},
title = {mRNA vaccines: Emerging opportunities for herpesvirus prevention and therapeutic intervention.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {321},
number = {Pt 1},
pages = {146204},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.146204},
pmid = {40701471},
issn = {1879-0003},
abstract = {Herpesviruses infect over 90 % of the global population, imposing a significant disease burden worldwide. The complex lifecycle of herpesviruses, characterized by both lytic infection and latency, poses substantial challenges to vaccine development. To date, among the nine known human herpesviruses, only varicella-zoster virus (VZV) has a licensed commercial vaccine, leaving an urgent need for novel and broadly protective vaccine strategies against the remaining members of this viral family. mRNA vaccine platforms, which allow in situ expression of high levels of antigenic proteins without the risk of genomic integration, offer promising advantages in safety and immunogenicity. Their success during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted their potential for rapid and effective vaccine development. In this review, we first summarize the infection and latency mechanisms of the nine human herpesviruses. We then comprehensively examine recent advances in mRNA vaccine research targeting these viruses, including antigen design, structural optimization, immune protection profiles, and safety assessments. Finally, we discuss current limitations and bottlenecks in herpesvirus vaccine development, with the goal of informing future efforts toward the design of broad-spectrum, safe, and effective herpesvirus vaccines.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
Bioactive compounds, health benefits, and practical applications of edible mushroom Schizophyllum commune Fr.: A decade-long critical review.
Food chemistry, 492(Pt 3):145583 pii:S0308-8146(25)02834-1 [Epub ahead of print].
Schizophyllum commune, also known as split-gill mushroom, is an edible fungus with significant medicinal and culinary value. This review explores the bioactive compounds, health benefits, and applications based on research from the last decade. Mushrooms like S. commune are rich in polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins, and ergosterol, contributing to their antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. These compounds suggest potential in preventing and managing chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions. S. commune shows strong antioxidant activity, protecting cells from oxidative stress and DNA damage. It also demonstrates genoprotective and organoprotective effects, particularly against environmental toxins like Bisphenol A. Apart from medicinal use, S. commune acts have applications in pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and nutraceuticals, with notable antibacterial and anticancer effects. It is safe for consumption with no toxicity at high doses and it also offers potential in liver protection, metabolic disorders, and immune health.
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40701086,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, Y and Xu, B},
title = {Bioactive compounds, health benefits, and practical applications of edible mushroom Schizophyllum commune Fr.: A decade-long critical review.},
journal = {Food chemistry},
volume = {492},
number = {Pt 3},
pages = {145583},
doi = {10.1016/j.foodchem.2025.145583},
pmid = {40701086},
issn = {1873-7072},
abstract = {Schizophyllum commune, also known as split-gill mushroom, is an edible fungus with significant medicinal and culinary value. This review explores the bioactive compounds, health benefits, and applications based on research from the last decade. Mushrooms like S. commune are rich in polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins, and ergosterol, contributing to their antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. These compounds suggest potential in preventing and managing chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and neurodegenerative conditions. S. commune shows strong antioxidant activity, protecting cells from oxidative stress and DNA damage. It also demonstrates genoprotective and organoprotective effects, particularly against environmental toxins like Bisphenol A. Apart from medicinal use, S. commune acts have applications in pharmaceuticals, functional foods, and nutraceuticals, with notable antibacterial and anticancer effects. It is safe for consumption with no toxicity at high doses and it also offers potential in liver protection, metabolic disorders, and immune health.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
From Structure to Function: Isatin Derivatives as a Promising Class of Antiviral Agents.
Current drug targets, 26(7):470-488.
A range of heterocyclic compounds, including Isatin (oneH-indole-2, 3-dione) and its by-products, have been shown to represent potential unit blocks in the synthesis of potential medicinal agents. Numerous studies have been carried out on isatin, its synthesis, biological uses, and its chemical composition since when it was discovered. Functionally, these isatin-containing heterocycles have demonstrated antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiviral, antitubercular, and anticancer properties, among many others. In vitro and In vivo efficaciousness of several Isatin moieties has been assessed in recent years based on their antimicrobial qualities. Isatin has shown great promise as a flexible heterocycle in the realm of drug development in recent years. Many viruses have caused extensive epidemics during the last 50 years, which have had detrimental effects on social, economic, and health conditions. The current unprecedented SARS-CoV-2 epidemic necessitates intensive research into the development of potent antiviral medications. It has been shown that Isatin, a flexible heterocycle, has a great deal of potential for drug development. Appropriately functionalized Isatin compounds have shown noteworthy and extensive antiviral activities throughout the last fifty years. The goal of this study is to gather all known data on Isatin derivatives' antiviral activity, emphasizing their structure-activity correlations as well as research on mechanistic and molecular modelling. We think that the scientific community will find this review to be a useful tool in the development of more efficient and powerful antiviral treatments based on Isatin scaffolds.
Additional Links: PMID-39878104
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid39878104,
year = {2025},
author = {Jamwal, A and Sharma, S and Kapoor, VK and Chauhan, R and Dua, K and Dalwal, V and Kumar, A and Prasher, P and Negi, P},
title = {From Structure to Function: Isatin Derivatives as a Promising Class of Antiviral Agents.},
journal = {Current drug targets},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {470-488},
pmid = {39878104},
issn = {1873-5592},
mesh = {*Isatin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Animals ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; COVID-19/virology ; },
abstract = {A range of heterocyclic compounds, including Isatin (oneH-indole-2, 3-dione) and its by-products, have been shown to represent potential unit blocks in the synthesis of potential medicinal agents. Numerous studies have been carried out on isatin, its synthesis, biological uses, and its chemical composition since when it was discovered. Functionally, these isatin-containing heterocycles have demonstrated antibacterial, antidiabetic, antiviral, antitubercular, and anticancer properties, among many others. In vitro and In vivo efficaciousness of several Isatin moieties has been assessed in recent years based on their antimicrobial qualities. Isatin has shown great promise as a flexible heterocycle in the realm of drug development in recent years. Many viruses have caused extensive epidemics during the last 50 years, which have had detrimental effects on social, economic, and health conditions. The current unprecedented SARS-CoV-2 epidemic necessitates intensive research into the development of potent antiviral medications. It has been shown that Isatin, a flexible heterocycle, has a great deal of potential for drug development. Appropriately functionalized Isatin compounds have shown noteworthy and extensive antiviral activities throughout the last fifty years. The goal of this study is to gather all known data on Isatin derivatives' antiviral activity, emphasizing their structure-activity correlations as well as research on mechanistic and molecular modelling. We think that the scientific community will find this review to be a useful tool in the development of more efficient and powerful antiviral treatments based on Isatin scaffolds.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Isatin/pharmacology/analogs & derivatives/chemistry/therapeutic use
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Animals
Structure-Activity Relationship
COVID-19/virology
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Advancements in Structural Basis of Covalent Inhibitors Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Essential Proteins.
Current medicinal chemistry, 32(19):3790-3824.
Covalent inhibitors play a pivotal role in the development of pharmaceutical therapies, as they form stable, irreversible bonds with target biomolecules, leading to prolonged therapeutic effects and enhanced efficacy. Since covalent inhibitors first appeared in the late 1800s, the field has become innovative rapidly, and covalent inhibitors now account for around 30% of all marketed therapeutics. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 needs to be cured with a medicine that is beneficial and with the least side effects. It is necessary to formulate drug candidates to treat this pathogen. The predominance of covalent medications will be briefly discussed in this review, followed by an introduction to their methods of action, as well as more thorough discussions of the safe and effective covalent enzyme inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2. Our main concern is to study covalent inhibitors which are mainly involved in blocking the viral entry of the virus SARS-CoV-2 into the host cell along with its replication and translation process. In the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 medicines researchers can use those reported drugs as prospective candidates.
Additional Links: PMID-39773044
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@article {pmid39773044,
year = {2025},
author = {Fatima, I and Alshabrmi, FM and Aba Alkhayl, FF and Qasim, M and Shafqat, A and Batool, S and Jawad, M and Qamar, MTU and Rehman, A},
title = {Advancements in Structural Basis of Covalent Inhibitors Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Essential Proteins.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {32},
number = {19},
pages = {3790-3824},
pmid = {39773044},
issn = {1875-533X},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; Virus Internalization/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Covalent inhibitors play a pivotal role in the development of pharmaceutical therapies, as they form stable, irreversible bonds with target biomolecules, leading to prolonged therapeutic effects and enhanced efficacy. Since covalent inhibitors first appeared in the late 1800s, the field has become innovative rapidly, and covalent inhibitors now account for around 30% of all marketed therapeutics. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). SARS-CoV-2 needs to be cured with a medicine that is beneficial and with the least side effects. It is necessary to formulate drug candidates to treat this pathogen. The predominance of covalent medications will be briefly discussed in this review, followed by an introduction to their methods of action, as well as more thorough discussions of the safe and effective covalent enzyme inhibitors against SARS-CoV-2. Our main concern is to study covalent inhibitors which are mainly involved in blocking the viral entry of the virus SARS-CoV-2 into the host cell along with its replication and translation process. In the development of anti-SARS-CoV-2 medicines researchers can use those reported drugs as prospective candidates.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
Virus Internalization/drug effects
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Optimizing the Antimicrobial Effects by using Natural Compounds in COVID-19 Management.
Current medicinal chemistry, 32(17):3329-3346.
COVID-19 has emerged as the most significant global health issue of our time. The causative agent, SARS-CoV-2, causes extensive damage to the lower respiratory tract in susceptible populations, leading to lung damage and death. COVID-19-infected patients are also prone to respiratory pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. In some cases, these respiratory pathogens are multidrug-resistant and cause life-threatening infections in patients. Since the existing antibiotics are ineffective against these antibiotic-resistant bacteria, urgent attention is required to develop new and effective therapeutic agents to combat antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Alternatively, novel therapeutic strategies can be explored to enhance the antimicrobial effects of the existing antimicrobial agents, such as antibiotics. Adding natural compounds with existing antimicrobial agents to increase their antimicrobial activity is one of the most suitable and promising options to combat the rising threat of both COVID-19 and antimicrobial resistance. Natural compounds are generally considered safe and may even reduce the side effects of drugs and medicines. In light of such advantages, the current review summarized some of the studies that have combined natural compounds with antibiotics and antiviral to increase the antimicrobial potential of these drugs. This study can help researchers compare and understand already existing data to design new studies to develop antimicrobial agents against COVID-19.
Additional Links: PMID-38797911
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Citation:
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@article {pmid38797911,
year = {2025},
author = {Gasmi, A and Benahmed, AG and Dadar, M and Mujawdiya, P and Bjorklund, G},
title = {Optimizing the Antimicrobial Effects by using Natural Compounds in COVID-19 Management.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {32},
number = {17},
pages = {3329-3346},
pmid = {38797911},
issn = {1875-533X},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *Biological Products/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Anti-Infective Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; Pandemics ; Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 has emerged as the most significant global health issue of our time. The causative agent, SARS-CoV-2, causes extensive damage to the lower respiratory tract in susceptible populations, leading to lung damage and death. COVID-19-infected patients are also prone to respiratory pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli. In some cases, these respiratory pathogens are multidrug-resistant and cause life-threatening infections in patients. Since the existing antibiotics are ineffective against these antibiotic-resistant bacteria, urgent attention is required to develop new and effective therapeutic agents to combat antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Alternatively, novel therapeutic strategies can be explored to enhance the antimicrobial effects of the existing antimicrobial agents, such as antibiotics. Adding natural compounds with existing antimicrobial agents to increase their antimicrobial activity is one of the most suitable and promising options to combat the rising threat of both COVID-19 and antimicrobial resistance. Natural compounds are generally considered safe and may even reduce the side effects of drugs and medicines. In light of such advantages, the current review summarized some of the studies that have combined natural compounds with antibiotics and antiviral to increase the antimicrobial potential of these drugs. This study can help researchers compare and understand already existing data to design new studies to develop antimicrobial agents against COVID-19.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
COVID-19
*Biological Products/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Anti-Infective Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
Pandemics
Betacoronavirus/drug effects
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
RevDate: 2025-07-24
Coronavirus in Recent Years: Characteristics, Outbreaks, and Treatments.
Tanaffos, 23(3):220-237.
BACKGROUND: Coronaviruses cause acute respiratory syndromes, e.g., SARS, MERS, and COVID-19, whose treatment depends on several factors, specifically the age of patients, adopted treatments, time of hospitalization, and timely diagnosis. The present study was conducted to investigate the interaction between the mentioned factors and treatment.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Relevant full-text publications were indicated by searching in the five online databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, WOS, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library using MeSH terms during 2010-2024. Only original case reports (n=55) that worked on signs and treatments were selected and analysed according to age, gender, medical history, diagnostic methods, treatments, kind of respiratory syndrome, and transmission ways. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were evaluated by each of the reviewers independently, and non-agreements were solved by consulting with a fourth reviewer.
RESULTS: According to the results, the severe respiratory syndromes occurred more in the elderly than younger people and in males than females (58% and 42%, respectively). Medical history of diabetes and heart disease showed the maximum effect on the person to get involved with the severe respiratory syndrome. Clinical methods were used more for the diagnosis of the diseases because of easy access and less time consumption. Combination therapy was better than single therapy. The most common route of transmission was human to human and nosocomial.
CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that these types of fatal respiratory illnesses can be controlled if the health care workers become familiar with the type of illness and apply the early and effective treatments.
Additional Links: PMID-40704343
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@article {pmid40704343,
year = {2024},
author = {Eslaminejad, T and Shojaeepour, S and Torabizadeh, SA and Mirzaie, V},
title = {Coronavirus in Recent Years: Characteristics, Outbreaks, and Treatments.},
journal = {Tanaffos},
volume = {23},
number = {3},
pages = {220-237},
pmid = {40704343},
issn = {1735-0344},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronaviruses cause acute respiratory syndromes, e.g., SARS, MERS, and COVID-19, whose treatment depends on several factors, specifically the age of patients, adopted treatments, time of hospitalization, and timely diagnosis. The present study was conducted to investigate the interaction between the mentioned factors and treatment.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Relevant full-text publications were indicated by searching in the five online databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, WOS, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library using MeSH terms during 2010-2024. Only original case reports (n=55) that worked on signs and treatments were selected and analysed according to age, gender, medical history, diagnostic methods, treatments, kind of respiratory syndrome, and transmission ways. Articles that met the inclusion criteria were evaluated by each of the reviewers independently, and non-agreements were solved by consulting with a fourth reviewer.
RESULTS: According to the results, the severe respiratory syndromes occurred more in the elderly than younger people and in males than females (58% and 42%, respectively). Medical history of diabetes and heart disease showed the maximum effect on the person to get involved with the severe respiratory syndrome. Clinical methods were used more for the diagnosis of the diseases because of easy access and less time consumption. Combination therapy was better than single therapy. The most common route of transmission was human to human and nosocomial.
CONCLUSION: It can be concluded that these types of fatal respiratory illnesses can be controlled if the health care workers become familiar with the type of illness and apply the early and effective treatments.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Treatment Patterns and Outcomes of Colorectal Cancer.
Ewha medical journal, 46(Suppl 1):e28.
Over the past 3 years, the COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to the healthcare system, leading to delays in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases due to the need for social distancing measures. Colorectal cancer has not been immune to these disruptions, and research in various countries has explored the impact of COVID-19 on the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer. One notable consequence has been the postponement of colorectal cancer screenings, potentially resulting in disease progression, which can adversely affect surgical and oncological outcomes. Furthermore, the treatment approach for colorectal cancer may vary depending on the extent of disease progression and the healthcare policies implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this systematic review, we examine treatment strategies, surgical outcomes, and oncological variables across multiple studies focusing on colorectal cancer treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this analysis was to assess how medical policies enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced the outcomes of colorectal cancer treatment. We hope that this review will provide valuable insights and serve as a foundational resource for developing guidelines to address potential medical crises in the future.
Additional Links: PMID-40703211
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@article {pmid40703211,
year = {2023},
author = {Park, IJ},
title = {Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Treatment Patterns and Outcomes of Colorectal Cancer.},
journal = {Ewha medical journal},
volume = {46},
number = {Suppl 1},
pages = {e28},
pmid = {40703211},
issn = {2234-2591},
abstract = {Over the past 3 years, the COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to the healthcare system, leading to delays in the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases due to the need for social distancing measures. Colorectal cancer has not been immune to these disruptions, and research in various countries has explored the impact of COVID-19 on the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer. One notable consequence has been the postponement of colorectal cancer screenings, potentially resulting in disease progression, which can adversely affect surgical and oncological outcomes. Furthermore, the treatment approach for colorectal cancer may vary depending on the extent of disease progression and the healthcare policies implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this systematic review, we examine treatment strategies, surgical outcomes, and oncological variables across multiple studies focusing on colorectal cancer treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this analysis was to assess how medical policies enacted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have influenced the outcomes of colorectal cancer treatment. We hope that this review will provide valuable insights and serve as a foundational resource for developing guidelines to address potential medical crises in the future.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-24
CmpDate: 2025-07-24
Molecular Mechanisms of the Toll-Like Receptor, STING, MAVS, Inflammasome, and Interferon Pathways.
mSystems, 6(3):101128msystems0033621.
Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) form the front line of defense against pathogens. Many of the molecular mechanisms that facilitate PRR signaling have been characterized in detail, which is critical for the development of accurate PRR pathway models at the molecular interaction level. These models could support the development of therapeutics for numerous diseases, including sepsis and COVID-19. This review describes the molecular mechanisms of the principal signaling interactions of the Toll-like receptor, STING, MAVS, and inflammasome pathways. A detailed molecular mechanism network is included as Data Set S1 in the supplemental material.
Additional Links: PMID-34184910
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@article {pmid34184910,
year = {2021},
author = {Manes, NP and Nita-Lazar, A},
title = {Molecular Mechanisms of the Toll-Like Receptor, STING, MAVS, Inflammasome, and Interferon Pathways.},
journal = {mSystems},
volume = {6},
number = {3},
pages = {101128msystems0033621},
pmid = {34184910},
issn = {2379-5077},
support = {//Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (DIR, NIAID)/ ; },
abstract = {Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) form the front line of defense against pathogens. Many of the molecular mechanisms that facilitate PRR signaling have been characterized in detail, which is critical for the development of accurate PRR pathway models at the molecular interaction level. These models could support the development of therapeutics for numerous diseases, including sepsis and COVID-19. This review describes the molecular mechanisms of the principal signaling interactions of the Toll-like receptor, STING, MAVS, and inflammasome pathways. A detailed molecular mechanism network is included as Data Set S1 in the supplemental material.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
Human organoid models to study coronavirus infections of the respiratory tract.
Current opinion in virology, 72:101476 pii:S1879-6257(25)00026-4 [Epub ahead of print].
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emphasized the need to study coronaviruses more thoroughly. Next to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), humans can be infected by SARS-CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and various seasonal coronaviruses. It is likely that all human coronaviruses have a zoonotic origin and circulated in animal reservoirs before crossing the species barrier into humans. Historically, these viruses have been investigated in vitro and in vivo, mainly utilizing immortalized cell lines and animal models, respectively. Recently, more advanced physiological model systems have been developed to study coronavirus host interactions, with human organoids serving as innovative in vitro tissue culture system that closely mimics human physiology. Organoids provide a promising platform for investigating coronavirus infections, exploring viral tropism, studying host immune responses, and evaluating potential therapeutic interventions. This review explores the origins and use of airway organoids in studying coronaviruses. Additionally, it outlines prospects for leveraging airway organoids for examination of both innate and adaptive immune responses, evaluation of antiviral drugs, and creating intricate co-culture models for enhanced insight into coronavirus infections of the respiratory tract.
Additional Links: PMID-40700883
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@article {pmid40700883,
year = {2025},
author = {Te Marvelde, MR and van Dijk, L and Power, MA and Rissmann, M and de Vries, RD and Haagmans, BL},
title = {Human organoid models to study coronavirus infections of the respiratory tract.},
journal = {Current opinion in virology},
volume = {72},
number = {},
pages = {101476},
doi = {10.1016/j.coviro.2025.101476},
pmid = {40700883},
issn = {1879-6265},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emphasized the need to study coronaviruses more thoroughly. Next to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), humans can be infected by SARS-CoV, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and various seasonal coronaviruses. It is likely that all human coronaviruses have a zoonotic origin and circulated in animal reservoirs before crossing the species barrier into humans. Historically, these viruses have been investigated in vitro and in vivo, mainly utilizing immortalized cell lines and animal models, respectively. Recently, more advanced physiological model systems have been developed to study coronavirus host interactions, with human organoids serving as innovative in vitro tissue culture system that closely mimics human physiology. Organoids provide a promising platform for investigating coronavirus infections, exploring viral tropism, studying host immune responses, and evaluating potential therapeutic interventions. This review explores the origins and use of airway organoids in studying coronaviruses. Additionally, it outlines prospects for leveraging airway organoids for examination of both innate and adaptive immune responses, evaluation of antiviral drugs, and creating intricate co-culture models for enhanced insight into coronavirus infections of the respiratory tract.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
Essential surgery in crisis: A global scoping review of surgical prioritization during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Surgery, 186:109578 pii:S0039-6060(25)00430-1 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: A systematic analysis of how essential surgery developed worldwide throughout the COVID-19 pandemic remains absent. This scoping review aims to define essential surgery by comparing definitions between high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries during COVID-19.
METHODS: We conducted a scoping review of Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for articles published January 2020 to December 2022 that defined essential surgery during COVID-19. Articles referencing pediatric populations or exclusively elective surgery were excluded. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024495318). Articles were categorized by country income status, surgical specialty, and methodology. Procedures were classified into 8 surgical systems (neurosurgery, breast/gynecology, etc) and deemed to have strong (≥75%), moderate (50-74%), or limited (<50%) consensus as essential on the basis of how many articles mentioned the procedure.
RESULTS: We analyzed 85 articles (61 high-income countries, 24 low- and middle-income countries) from 4,247 screened. Essential surgery comprises procedures needed within 30 days that prevent mortality, are time-sensitive, preserve function, prevent altered prognosis, or have no medical alternatives. Neurosurgery was most represented, with strong consensus for immediate life-threatening conditions needing intervention within 24 hours. Although high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries agreed on procedures addressing immediate threats to life, significant disparities existed in urology, gynecology, and colorectal surgery.
CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the need for resource-stratified, specialty-specific guidelines that can be adapted to different health care contexts, while maintaining the core principles of surgical prioritization. Future frameworks should incorporate timeframes for safe surgical delay, risk of disease progression, resource requirements, and expected outcomes to guide ethical surgical triage.
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@article {pmid40700874,
year = {2025},
author = {VanDerWal, JA and Wilson, DJ and Keener, K and Jaraczewski, T and Prom, JL and Seadler, M and Turner, H and Murphy, P and Dodgion, C and Iverson, KR},
title = {Essential surgery in crisis: A global scoping review of surgical prioritization during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Surgery},
volume = {186},
number = {},
pages = {109578},
doi = {10.1016/j.surg.2025.109578},
pmid = {40700874},
issn = {1532-7361},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: A systematic analysis of how essential surgery developed worldwide throughout the COVID-19 pandemic remains absent. This scoping review aims to define essential surgery by comparing definitions between high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries during COVID-19.
METHODS: We conducted a scoping review of Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for articles published January 2020 to December 2022 that defined essential surgery during COVID-19. Articles referencing pediatric populations or exclusively elective surgery were excluded. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024495318). Articles were categorized by country income status, surgical specialty, and methodology. Procedures were classified into 8 surgical systems (neurosurgery, breast/gynecology, etc) and deemed to have strong (≥75%), moderate (50-74%), or limited (<50%) consensus as essential on the basis of how many articles mentioned the procedure.
RESULTS: We analyzed 85 articles (61 high-income countries, 24 low- and middle-income countries) from 4,247 screened. Essential surgery comprises procedures needed within 30 days that prevent mortality, are time-sensitive, preserve function, prevent altered prognosis, or have no medical alternatives. Neurosurgery was most represented, with strong consensus for immediate life-threatening conditions needing intervention within 24 hours. Although high-income countries and low- and middle-income countries agreed on procedures addressing immediate threats to life, significant disparities existed in urology, gynecology, and colorectal surgery.
CONCLUSION: Our findings highlight the need for resource-stratified, specialty-specific guidelines that can be adapted to different health care contexts, while maintaining the core principles of surgical prioritization. Future frameworks should incorporate timeframes for safe surgical delay, risk of disease progression, resource requirements, and expected outcomes to guide ethical surgical triage.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
The Role of Type I Interferons in Tuberculosis and in Tuberculosis-Risk-Associated Comorbidities.
Infectious disease reports, 17(4): pii:idr17040081.
The identification of a type I interferon-induced transcriptomic signature in active tuberculosis suggests a potential role for these interferons in the pathogenesis of tuberculosis. Comorbidities such as human immunodeficiency virus, diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, end-stage renal disease, and coronavirus disease are epidemiologically linked to an increased risk for reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection. Notably, type I interferons are also implicated in the pathogenesis of these conditions, with a recognizable type I interferon transcriptomic signature. The mechanisms by which type I interferons in tuberculosis-risk-associated comorbidities may drive the progression of tuberculosis or maintenance of latent infection however remain largely unknown. This review summarizes the existing literature on the increased association between type I interferons, focusing on interferon-α and -β, and the heightened risk of tuberculosis reactivation. It also underscores the similarities in the immunopathogenesis of these comorbidities. A better understanding of these mechanisms is essential to guide the development of host-directed interferon therapies and improving diagnostic biomarkers in M. tuberculosis infection.
Additional Links: PMID-40700327
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@article {pmid40700327,
year = {2025},
author = {Mutua, F and Su, RC and Ball, TB and Kiazyk, S},
title = {The Role of Type I Interferons in Tuberculosis and in Tuberculosis-Risk-Associated Comorbidities.},
journal = {Infectious disease reports},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/idr17040081},
pmid = {40700327},
issn = {2036-7430},
abstract = {The identification of a type I interferon-induced transcriptomic signature in active tuberculosis suggests a potential role for these interferons in the pathogenesis of tuberculosis. Comorbidities such as human immunodeficiency virus, diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, end-stage renal disease, and coronavirus disease are epidemiologically linked to an increased risk for reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection. Notably, type I interferons are also implicated in the pathogenesis of these conditions, with a recognizable type I interferon transcriptomic signature. The mechanisms by which type I interferons in tuberculosis-risk-associated comorbidities may drive the progression of tuberculosis or maintenance of latent infection however remain largely unknown. This review summarizes the existing literature on the increased association between type I interferons, focusing on interferon-α and -β, and the heightened risk of tuberculosis reactivation. It also underscores the similarities in the immunopathogenesis of these comorbidities. A better understanding of these mechanisms is essential to guide the development of host-directed interferon therapies and improving diagnostic biomarkers in M. tuberculosis infection.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Impact of Invasive Mechanical Ventilation on the Lung Microbiome.
Advances in respiratory medicine, 93(4): pii:arm93040023.
The lung microbiota is integral to maintaining microenvironmental homeostasis, influencing immune regulation, host defense against pathogens, and overall respiratory health. The dynamic interplay among the lung microbiota emphasizes their significance in shaping the respiratory milieu and potential impact on diverse pulmonary affections. This investigation aimed to identify the effects of invasive mechanical ventilation on the lung microbiome. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted with registration number CRD42023461618, based on a search of PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases, in line with the PRISMA guidelines. To achieve this, "(mechanical ventilation) AND (microbiota)" was used as the search term, replicable across all databases. The closing date of the search was 12 March 2025, and the evidence was scored using the MINORS scale. Results: A total of 16 studies were included, with patients aged 13.6 months to 76 years, predominantly male (64.2%). Common ICU admission diagnoses requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) included pneumonia, acute respiratory failure, and COVID-19. IMV was associated with reduced lung microbiota diversity and an increased prevalence of pathogenic bacteria, including Prevotella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. The most frequently used antibiotics were cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and penicillins. IMV-induced pulmonary dysbiosis correlated with higher infection risk and mortality, particularly in pneumonia and COVID-19 cases. Factors such as antimicrobial therapy, enteral nutrition, and systemic inflammation contributed to these alterations. Conclusions: Invasive mechanical ventilation has been associated with the development of alterations in the respiratory microbiome, resulting in reduced diversity of lung microorganisms.
Additional Links: PMID-40700054
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@article {pmid40700054,
year = {2025},
author = {Estela-Zape, JL and Sanclemente-Cardoza, V and Espinosa-Cifuentes, MA and Ordoñez-Mora, LT},
title = {Impact of Invasive Mechanical Ventilation on the Lung Microbiome.},
journal = {Advances in respiratory medicine},
volume = {93},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/arm93040023},
pmid = {40700054},
issn = {2543-6031},
support = {01-2025//Universidad Santiago de Cali/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiration, Artificial/adverse effects/methods ; *Microbiota ; *Lung/microbiology ; COVID-19/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The lung microbiota is integral to maintaining microenvironmental homeostasis, influencing immune regulation, host defense against pathogens, and overall respiratory health. The dynamic interplay among the lung microbiota emphasizes their significance in shaping the respiratory milieu and potential impact on diverse pulmonary affections. This investigation aimed to identify the effects of invasive mechanical ventilation on the lung microbiome. Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted with registration number CRD42023461618, based on a search of PubMed, SCOPUS, and Web of Science databases, in line with the PRISMA guidelines. To achieve this, "(mechanical ventilation) AND (microbiota)" was used as the search term, replicable across all databases. The closing date of the search was 12 March 2025, and the evidence was scored using the MINORS scale. Results: A total of 16 studies were included, with patients aged 13.6 months to 76 years, predominantly male (64.2%). Common ICU admission diagnoses requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) included pneumonia, acute respiratory failure, and COVID-19. IMV was associated with reduced lung microbiota diversity and an increased prevalence of pathogenic bacteria, including Prevotella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. The most frequently used antibiotics were cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and penicillins. IMV-induced pulmonary dysbiosis correlated with higher infection risk and mortality, particularly in pneumonia and COVID-19 cases. Factors such as antimicrobial therapy, enteral nutrition, and systemic inflammation contributed to these alterations. Conclusions: Invasive mechanical ventilation has been associated with the development of alterations in the respiratory microbiome, resulting in reduced diversity of lung microorganisms.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
*Respiration, Artificial/adverse effects/methods
*Microbiota
*Lung/microbiology
COVID-19/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Stress-induced translocation of the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone GRP78/BiP and its impact on human disease and therapy.
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 122(30):e2412246122.
Since their discoveries in the 1960s as a family of proteins produced by cells in response to stress, molecular chaperones are increasingly recognized as major regulators of cellular homeostasis in health and disease. Among the heat shock protein 70 family, the 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), also referred to as BiP and encoded by the HSPA5 gene, contains a signal peptide targeting it into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Through its interaction with the transmembrane ER stress sensors, GRP78 acts as a master regulator of the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) which allows cells to adapt to stress observed in many human diseases. The discovery that ER stress not only upregulates GRP78 to cope with ER protein quality control but also actively promotes its relocation to other cellular compartments where they vastly expand its functional repertoire beyond the ER represents a paradigm shift. This Perspective describes the origin and linkage of GRP78 to the UPR and the mechanisms whereby ER stress actively promotes export of GRP78 from the ER, as exemplified by its translocation to the cell surface where it acts as a multifaceted receptor and a conduit for drug and viral entry, as well as its translocation into the nucleus, where it assumes the surprising role of a transcriptional regulator whereby reprogramming the cell's transcriptome. Furthermore, this Perspective addresses how these and other atypical localizations of GRP78 impact human disease, with emphasis on cancer and COVID-19, and the exciting prospect that drugs targeting GRP78 could dually suppress tumorigenesis and viral infections.
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@article {pmid40699920,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, AS},
title = {Stress-induced translocation of the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone GRP78/BiP and its impact on human disease and therapy.},
journal = {Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America},
volume = {122},
number = {30},
pages = {e2412246122},
doi = {10.1073/pnas.2412246122},
pmid = {40699920},
issn = {1091-6490},
support = {CA027607//HHS | NIH (NIH)/ ; CA238029//HHS | NIH (NIH)/ ; HL114959//HHS | NIH (NIH)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Endoplasmic Reticulum Chaperone BiP ; *Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress/physiology ; *Endoplasmic Reticulum/metabolism ; Unfolded Protein Response ; *Heat-Shock Proteins/metabolism ; Protein Transport ; COVID-19/metabolism ; Animals ; Neoplasms/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Since their discoveries in the 1960s as a family of proteins produced by cells in response to stress, molecular chaperones are increasingly recognized as major regulators of cellular homeostasis in health and disease. Among the heat shock protein 70 family, the 78-kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), also referred to as BiP and encoded by the HSPA5 gene, contains a signal peptide targeting it into the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Through its interaction with the transmembrane ER stress sensors, GRP78 acts as a master regulator of the Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) which allows cells to adapt to stress observed in many human diseases. The discovery that ER stress not only upregulates GRP78 to cope with ER protein quality control but also actively promotes its relocation to other cellular compartments where they vastly expand its functional repertoire beyond the ER represents a paradigm shift. This Perspective describes the origin and linkage of GRP78 to the UPR and the mechanisms whereby ER stress actively promotes export of GRP78 from the ER, as exemplified by its translocation to the cell surface where it acts as a multifaceted receptor and a conduit for drug and viral entry, as well as its translocation into the nucleus, where it assumes the surprising role of a transcriptional regulator whereby reprogramming the cell's transcriptome. Furthermore, this Perspective addresses how these and other atypical localizations of GRP78 impact human disease, with emphasis on cancer and COVID-19, and the exciting prospect that drugs targeting GRP78 could dually suppress tumorigenesis and viral infections.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Humans
Endoplasmic Reticulum Chaperone BiP
*Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress/physiology
*Endoplasmic Reticulum/metabolism
Unfolded Protein Response
*Heat-Shock Proteins/metabolism
Protein Transport
COVID-19/metabolism
Animals
Neoplasms/metabolism
RevDate: 2025-07-23
Albumin: A Review of Market Trends, Purification Methods, and Biomedical Innovations.
Current issues in molecular biology, 47(5): pii:cimb47050303.
Albumin is the most abundant plasma protein, accounting for approximately 50% of total serum protein in healthy individuals. In recent years, albumin has attracted significant attention due to its biocompatibility, non-toxicity (metabolizing in vivo into harmless degradation products), non-immunogenic properties, ease of purification, and water solubility. These characteristics render it an ideal candidate for a wide range of biomedical applications. Its uses include drug delivery systems, wound healing, antioxidant therapies, infusion treatments, COVID-19 therapeutics, tissue engineering, and other critical care domains. Consequently, the global demand for albumin has been steadily increasing. The international albumin market was valued at USD 5394.9 million in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 9192 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1%. Given its diverse applications and rising demand, substantial efforts have been made to ensure a sustainable supply of albumin. This review provides an overview of albumin, along with its novel applications, purification methods, and market trends.
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@article {pmid40699702,
year = {2025},
author = {Ashraf, MA and Shen, B and Raza, MA and Yang, Z and Amjad, MN and Din, GU and Yue, L and Kousar, A and Kanwal, Q and Hu, Y},
title = {Albumin: A Review of Market Trends, Purification Methods, and Biomedical Innovations.},
journal = {Current issues in molecular biology},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cimb47050303},
pmid = {40699702},
issn = {1467-3045},
support = {NVRC-PY-01//This research was funded by the Technical Support Talent Project from Chinese Academy of Sciences and Open foundation of National Virus Resource Center, grant number NVRC-PY-01./ ; },
abstract = {Albumin is the most abundant plasma protein, accounting for approximately 50% of total serum protein in healthy individuals. In recent years, albumin has attracted significant attention due to its biocompatibility, non-toxicity (metabolizing in vivo into harmless degradation products), non-immunogenic properties, ease of purification, and water solubility. These characteristics render it an ideal candidate for a wide range of biomedical applications. Its uses include drug delivery systems, wound healing, antioxidant therapies, infusion treatments, COVID-19 therapeutics, tissue engineering, and other critical care domains. Consequently, the global demand for albumin has been steadily increasing. The international albumin market was valued at USD 5394.9 million in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 9192 million by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1%. Given its diverse applications and rising demand, substantial efforts have been made to ensure a sustainable supply of albumin. This review provides an overview of albumin, along with its novel applications, purification methods, and market trends.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on measles vaccination coverage.
Cadernos de saude publica, 41(6):e00183924 pii:S0102-311X2025000601100.
We conducted a systematic review to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on measles vaccination coverage. We searched for articles published between January 2021 and December 2023 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish in the Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and LILACS databases. The final sample consisted of 32 studies, which demonstrated that most countries had a 1% to 10% decrease on measles vaccination coverage during the pandemic. However, the influence of the pandemic varied worldwide, ranging from 1% to 60% based on the region. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a relatively modest impact on measles immunization, with a complex intersection of several factors associated with the decrease in measles vaccination coverage.
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@article {pmid40699034,
year = {2025},
author = {Santos, GA and Luna, EJA},
title = {The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on measles vaccination coverage.},
journal = {Cadernos de saude publica},
volume = {41},
number = {6},
pages = {e00183924},
doi = {10.1590/0102-311XEN183924},
pmid = {40699034},
issn = {1678-4464},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Vaccination Coverage/statistics & numerical data ; *Measles Vaccine/administration & dosage ; *Measles/prevention & control ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {We conducted a systematic review to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on measles vaccination coverage. We searched for articles published between January 2021 and December 2023 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish in the Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and LILACS databases. The final sample consisted of 32 studies, which demonstrated that most countries had a 1% to 10% decrease on measles vaccination coverage during the pandemic. However, the influence of the pandemic varied worldwide, ranging from 1% to 60% based on the region. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a relatively modest impact on measles immunization, with a complex intersection of several factors associated with the decrease in measles vaccination coverage.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
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Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Vaccination Coverage/statistics & numerical data
*Measles Vaccine/administration & dosage
*Measles/prevention & control
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Interventions to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health status of healthcare workers: a systematic review.
JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association.., 75(6):943-959.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in addressing the impact of coronavirus disease-2019 on the mental health status of healthcare workers.
METHODS: The systematic review was conducted from January to August 2023 in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses guidelines, and comprised search on Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Excerpta Medica database, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases for relevant randomised clinical trials published till January 25, 2022, focussing on assessing the effectiveness of interventions addressing the impact of coronavirus disease-2019 on healthcare workers. The risk of bias of the studies was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised clinical trials RoB 2.0.
RESULTS: There were 17 randomised clinical trials with 4,511 participants. Overall findings showed that mindfulness-based interventions, yoga/music, music therapy/meditation, psychological interventions, creative arts therapy, and acupuncture could be effective in improving mental health outcomes for healthcare workers dealing with coronavirus disease-2019 patients. Pharmacological interventions and transcendental meditation may not be as effective.
CONCLUSIONS: Implementing non-pharmacological interventions to support the mental health of healthcare workers during times of crisis could be a positive approach.
Additional Links: PMID-40698473
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@article {pmid40698473,
year = {2025},
author = {Zahid, M and Hussain, U and Noreen, S and Kabir, S and Rehman, K},
title = {Interventions to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health status of healthcare workers: a systematic review.},
journal = {JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association..},
volume = {75},
number = {6},
pages = {943-959},
doi = {10.47391/JPMA.21037},
pmid = {40698473},
issn = {0030-9982},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Mental Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in addressing the impact of coronavirus disease-2019 on the mental health status of healthcare workers.
METHODS: The systematic review was conducted from January to August 2023 in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses guidelines, and comprised search on Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Excerpta Medica database, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases for relevant randomised clinical trials published till January 25, 2022, focussing on assessing the effectiveness of interventions addressing the impact of coronavirus disease-2019 on healthcare workers. The risk of bias of the studies was assessed using the revised Cochrane risk of bias tool for randomised clinical trials RoB 2.0.
RESULTS: There were 17 randomised clinical trials with 4,511 participants. Overall findings showed that mindfulness-based interventions, yoga/music, music therapy/meditation, psychological interventions, creative arts therapy, and acupuncture could be effective in improving mental health outcomes for healthcare workers dealing with coronavirus disease-2019 patients. Pharmacological interventions and transcendental meditation may not be as effective.
CONCLUSIONS: Implementing non-pharmacological interventions to support the mental health of healthcare workers during times of crisis could be a positive approach.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Mental Health
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Prevalence and correlates of depression, anxiety, and burnout among physicians and postgraduate medical trainees: a scoping review of recent literature.
Frontiers in public health, 13:1537108.
BACKGROUND: The mental well-being of physicians is increasingly recognized as vital, both for their personal health and the quality of care they provide to patients. Physicians face a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and burnout, which have become prevalent issues globally. These mental health concerns are like those found in the general population but are particularly significant in the demanding healthcare setting.
OBJECTIVE: This review aims to explore the prevalence and correlates of depression, anxiety, and burnout among physicians and residents in training.
METHODS: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, searching databases such as Medline, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. The review focused on studies published from 2021 to 2024 that addressed the prevalence of these mental health conditions in physicians and residents. The findings, in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, were summarized in detailed tables.
RESULTS: Following titles and abstracts screening, 196 publications were selected for full-text review, with 92 articles ultimately included in the analysis. The results revealed significant variability in the prevalence of burnout, depression, and anxiety. Burnout rates among physicians ranged from 4.7 to 90.1% and from 18.3 to 94% among residents. Depression prevalence ranged from 4.8 to 66.5% in physicians and from 7.7 to 93% in residents. Anxiety rates were between 8 and 78.9% in physicians and 10 to 63.9% in residents. Notably, women reported higher rates of all three conditions compared to men. Key factors influencing these mental health conditions included demographics (age, gender, education, financial status, family situation, occupation), psychological conditions, social factors (stigma, family life), work organization (workload, work conditions), and COVID-19-related issues (caring for COVID-19 patients, fear of infection, working in high-risk areas, concerns about personal protective equipment (PPE), and testing positive).
CONCLUSION: This review indicates a high prevalence of burnout, depression, and anxiety among physicians and residents, with female participants consistently showing higher rates than males. These findings can guide policymakers and healthcare administrators in designing targeted programs and interventions to help reduce these mental health issues in these groups.
Additional Links: PMID-40697832
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40697832,
year = {2025},
author = {Obeng Nkrumah, S and Adu, MK and Agyapong, B and da Luz Dias, R and Agyapong, VIO},
title = {Prevalence and correlates of depression, anxiety, and burnout among physicians and postgraduate medical trainees: a scoping review of recent literature.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1537108},
pmid = {40697832},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Depression/epidemiology ; *Physicians/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Anxiety/epidemiology ; *Internship and Residency/statistics & numerical data ; Female ; Male ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The mental well-being of physicians is increasingly recognized as vital, both for their personal health and the quality of care they provide to patients. Physicians face a variety of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and burnout, which have become prevalent issues globally. These mental health concerns are like those found in the general population but are particularly significant in the demanding healthcare setting.
OBJECTIVE: This review aims to explore the prevalence and correlates of depression, anxiety, and burnout among physicians and residents in training.
METHODS: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, searching databases such as Medline, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and PsycINFO. The review focused on studies published from 2021 to 2024 that addressed the prevalence of these mental health conditions in physicians and residents. The findings, in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, were summarized in detailed tables.
RESULTS: Following titles and abstracts screening, 196 publications were selected for full-text review, with 92 articles ultimately included in the analysis. The results revealed significant variability in the prevalence of burnout, depression, and anxiety. Burnout rates among physicians ranged from 4.7 to 90.1% and from 18.3 to 94% among residents. Depression prevalence ranged from 4.8 to 66.5% in physicians and from 7.7 to 93% in residents. Anxiety rates were between 8 and 78.9% in physicians and 10 to 63.9% in residents. Notably, women reported higher rates of all three conditions compared to men. Key factors influencing these mental health conditions included demographics (age, gender, education, financial status, family situation, occupation), psychological conditions, social factors (stigma, family life), work organization (workload, work conditions), and COVID-19-related issues (caring for COVID-19 patients, fear of infection, working in high-risk areas, concerns about personal protective equipment (PPE), and testing positive).
CONCLUSION: This review indicates a high prevalence of burnout, depression, and anxiety among physicians and residents, with female participants consistently showing higher rates than males. These findings can guide policymakers and healthcare administrators in designing targeted programs and interventions to help reduce these mental health issues in these groups.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Burnout, Professional/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Depression/epidemiology
*Physicians/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Anxiety/epidemiology
*Internship and Residency/statistics & numerical data
Female
Male
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Lived Experiences of New-Onset Long Covid Pain and Its Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life. A Scoping Review of Current Evidence.
Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy, 28(4):e70352.
INTRODUCTION: Long Covid (LC) is a multisystem condition that can cause persistent symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, cognitive problems and pain, with major effects on individuals and healthcare systems. Globally, nearly 400 million people have been affected. New-onset pain is among the most commonly reported symptoms and may develop into chronic pain, contributing to reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and highlighting the need for appropriate care. Given its global prevalence, exploring how people experience new-onset LC pain and how it impacts their lives can help improve pain management and support services.
METHODS: A mixed-methods scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The review mapped and synthesised evidence from eligible primary research articles (quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods) published in English between December 2019 and June 2024. Seven studies using cross-sectional, case-control and observational designs (n = 30 to 2507 participants) were included, with data collected from Europe and Asia.
RESULTS: While qualitative data on lived experience were limited, 69.5% of LC patients reported new-onset pain, most commonly musculoskeletal (MSK) pain (73.2%). Psychological symptoms such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were also reported (38%). Pain medications were widely used. Findings suggest that new-onset LC pain affects physical, psychological and social well-being. No studies involving children or adolescents were identified, indicating a gap in the evidence on paediatric experiences of new-onset LC pain.
CONCLUSION: This review highlights major gaps in the literature, especially the lack of qualitative research on how people experience new-onset LC pain. Future research should explore these experiences in depth, with involvement from patients and the public, to inform the development of appropriate treatment and support strategies.
During the review process, opportunities to involve PPI were not fully explored due to limited awareness of how to support meaningful involvement in a scoping review, alongside time and resource constraints. Such involvement could have helped shape the review question, refine the search terms and interpret the findings in ways that better reflect lived experience. This is acknowledged as both a limitation and a learning point. PPI will be actively embedded in the next phases of the research.
Additional Links: PMID-40696830
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40696830,
year = {2025},
author = {Paulose, M and Adams, NN and Martin, KR and Grant, A},
title = {Lived Experiences of New-Onset Long Covid Pain and Its Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life. A Scoping Review of Current Evidence.},
journal = {Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy},
volume = {28},
number = {4},
pages = {e70352},
doi = {10.1111/hex.70352},
pmid = {40696830},
issn = {1369-7625},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Quality of Life/psychology ; *COVID-19/complications/psychology ; *Chronic Pain/psychology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Long Covid (LC) is a multisystem condition that can cause persistent symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, cognitive problems and pain, with major effects on individuals and healthcare systems. Globally, nearly 400 million people have been affected. New-onset pain is among the most commonly reported symptoms and may develop into chronic pain, contributing to reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and highlighting the need for appropriate care. Given its global prevalence, exploring how people experience new-onset LC pain and how it impacts their lives can help improve pain management and support services.
METHODS: A mixed-methods scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The review mapped and synthesised evidence from eligible primary research articles (quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods) published in English between December 2019 and June 2024. Seven studies using cross-sectional, case-control and observational designs (n = 30 to 2507 participants) were included, with data collected from Europe and Asia.
RESULTS: While qualitative data on lived experience were limited, 69.5% of LC patients reported new-onset pain, most commonly musculoskeletal (MSK) pain (73.2%). Psychological symptoms such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were also reported (38%). Pain medications were widely used. Findings suggest that new-onset LC pain affects physical, psychological and social well-being. No studies involving children or adolescents were identified, indicating a gap in the evidence on paediatric experiences of new-onset LC pain.
CONCLUSION: This review highlights major gaps in the literature, especially the lack of qualitative research on how people experience new-onset LC pain. Future research should explore these experiences in depth, with involvement from patients and the public, to inform the development of appropriate treatment and support strategies.
During the review process, opportunities to involve PPI were not fully explored due to limited awareness of how to support meaningful involvement in a scoping review, alongside time and resource constraints. Such involvement could have helped shape the review question, refine the search terms and interpret the findings in ways that better reflect lived experience. This is acknowledged as both a limitation and a learning point. PPI will be actively embedded in the next phases of the research.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Quality of Life/psychology
*COVID-19/complications/psychology
*Chronic Pain/psychology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Exercise and Immune System: A Comprehensive Review in the Era of Coronavirus.
Iranian journal of allergy, asthma, and immunology, 24(4):428-440.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential role of a strong immune system in fighting infectious diseases. Understanding the relationship between exercise, physical activity, and immune function is crucial for recognizing how lifestyle factors can improve immune resilience. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the effects of exercise on the immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, it presents recommendations, guidelines, and considerations for engaging in physical activity during this period. Based on the literature review, there is some controversy regarding the effects of high-intensity exercise on individuals' immune systems, whereas moderate exercise is generally beneficial in almost all cases. Also, individuals experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms or other acute illnesses should abstain from physical activity until recovery.
Additional Links: PMID-40696729
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40696729,
year = {2025},
author = {Rahimi, S and Sayevand, Z and Rezaie Kahkhaie, L and Ahmadi, T and Alifarsangi, A},
title = {Exercise and Immune System: A Comprehensive Review in the Era of Coronavirus.},
journal = {Iranian journal of allergy, asthma, and immunology},
volume = {24},
number = {4},
pages = {428-440},
pmid = {40696729},
issn = {1735-5249},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Exercise/physiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immune System/physiology/immunology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the essential role of a strong immune system in fighting infectious diseases. Understanding the relationship between exercise, physical activity, and immune function is crucial for recognizing how lifestyle factors can improve immune resilience. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the effects of exercise on the immune system during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, it presents recommendations, guidelines, and considerations for engaging in physical activity during this period. Based on the literature review, there is some controversy regarding the effects of high-intensity exercise on individuals' immune systems, whereas moderate exercise is generally beneficial in almost all cases. Also, individuals experiencing severe COVID-19 symptoms or other acute illnesses should abstain from physical activity until recovery.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*Exercise/physiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immune System/physiology/immunology
Pandemics
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
Exploring the emerging trends and hot topics of 5G technology application in wireless medicine: A bibliometric and visualization analysis.
Medicine, 104(29):e43310.
BACKGROUND: The online diagnosis and treatment model based on 5th generation mobile communication (5G) technology is one of the important ways to solve the imbalance between supply and demand of medical services.
OBJECTIVE: We systematically summarized Chinese and English literature on the application of 5G technology in the field of wireless medical and conducted a literature feature analysis.
METHODS: We used bibliometrics to quantitatively analyze the research trends and hot topics and comparatively analyzed the differences between research in China and other countries.
RESULTS: This study analyzed 1344 articles and found that China provided the most funding (531 [75.32%]) and far outnumbered other countries in this field (1014 vs 330), but the quality of articles and effective collaboration between authors need to be improved. The hot topics in this field have gradually shifted from the construction of 5G internet hospitals during the COVID-19 to the construction of smart hospitals based on the Internet of Medical Things, and the research focus has gradually shifted from the data transmission layer such as wearable devices to the application layer of smart medical services.
CONCLUSION: Researchers can further refine the specific application of 5G technology in the field of wireless medical from the 3 major areas of the smart hospital system.
Additional Links: PMID-40696687
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40696687,
year = {2025},
author = {He, Y and Xie, J and Weng, Z and Yang, F and Wei, Y and Liang, J and Lei, J},
title = {Exploring the emerging trends and hot topics of 5G technology application in wireless medicine: A bibliometric and visualization analysis.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {29},
pages = {e43310},
doi = {10.1097/MD.0000000000043310},
pmid = {40696687},
issn = {1536-5964},
support = {81871455//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; LY22H180001//Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {*Bibliometrics ; Humans ; *Wireless Technology/trends ; *Telemedicine/trends ; COVID-19 ; China ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The online diagnosis and treatment model based on 5th generation mobile communication (5G) technology is one of the important ways to solve the imbalance between supply and demand of medical services.
OBJECTIVE: We systematically summarized Chinese and English literature on the application of 5G technology in the field of wireless medical and conducted a literature feature analysis.
METHODS: We used bibliometrics to quantitatively analyze the research trends and hot topics and comparatively analyzed the differences between research in China and other countries.
RESULTS: This study analyzed 1344 articles and found that China provided the most funding (531 [75.32%]) and far outnumbered other countries in this field (1014 vs 330), but the quality of articles and effective collaboration between authors need to be improved. The hot topics in this field have gradually shifted from the construction of 5G internet hospitals during the COVID-19 to the construction of smart hospitals based on the Internet of Medical Things, and the research focus has gradually shifted from the data transmission layer such as wearable devices to the application layer of smart medical services.
CONCLUSION: Researchers can further refine the specific application of 5G technology in the field of wireless medical from the 3 major areas of the smart hospital system.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Bibliometrics
Humans
*Wireless Technology/trends
*Telemedicine/trends
COVID-19
China
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-22
CmpDate: 2025-07-22
COVID-19-Related Collapsing Glomerulopathy and Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Case Report and Literature Review.
Nephrology (Carlton, Vic.), 30(7):e70096.
We present a case of collapsing glomerulopathy (CG) and thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) associated with COVID-19 in an Asian kidney transplant recipient who does not have the APOL1 gene variant, and we conduct a literature review. The patient presented with progressive renal function decline following a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test, accompanied by TMA manifestations such as thrombocytopenia and peripheral blood schistocytes. The renal biopsy conducted after plasma exchange revealed collapsing focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, along with acute tubulointerstitial nephritis and minor microangiopathic changes. The patient underwent cyclic eculizumab therapy and ultimately died of acute pulmonary embolism. Our findings indicate that kidney transplant recipients still may experience severe renal impairment even after testing negative for COVID-19 nucleic acid. COVID-19 can not only directly damage transplanted kidneys, but also indirectly harm transplanted kidneys by causing the release of cytokines and inflammation. COVID-19-related TMA and CG may be a continuous pathological process, and prolonged TMA may lead to the development of CG with a worse prognosis. It is also possible that CG and TMA coexist when patients present with acute kidney injury (AKI). Therefore, even a mild COVID-19 infection can have serious consequences for kidney transplant recipients. Vigilance for TMA and CG should be maintained in the presence of AKI of unknown cause.
Additional Links: PMID-40695486
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40695486,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, X and Xu, X and Zhang, X and Wang, S and Han, W and Shen, C and Lin, J},
title = {COVID-19-Related Collapsing Glomerulopathy and Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Case Report and Literature Review.},
journal = {Nephrology (Carlton, Vic.)},
volume = {30},
number = {7},
pages = {e70096},
doi = {10.1111/nep.70096},
pmid = {40695486},
issn = {1440-1797},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; *Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects ; *Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology/diagnosis/therapy/virology ; Male ; *Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/therapy/etiology/diagnosis/virology/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Fatal Outcome ; Middle Aged ; Nephritis, Interstitial ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized ; },
abstract = {We present a case of collapsing glomerulopathy (CG) and thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) associated with COVID-19 in an Asian kidney transplant recipient who does not have the APOL1 gene variant, and we conduct a literature review. The patient presented with progressive renal function decline following a negative COVID-19 nucleic acid test, accompanied by TMA manifestations such as thrombocytopenia and peripheral blood schistocytes. The renal biopsy conducted after plasma exchange revealed collapsing focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, along with acute tubulointerstitial nephritis and minor microangiopathic changes. The patient underwent cyclic eculizumab therapy and ultimately died of acute pulmonary embolism. Our findings indicate that kidney transplant recipients still may experience severe renal impairment even after testing negative for COVID-19 nucleic acid. COVID-19 can not only directly damage transplanted kidneys, but also indirectly harm transplanted kidneys by causing the release of cytokines and inflammation. COVID-19-related TMA and CG may be a continuous pathological process, and prolonged TMA may lead to the development of CG with a worse prognosis. It is also possible that CG and TMA coexist when patients present with acute kidney injury (AKI). Therefore, even a mild COVID-19 infection can have serious consequences for kidney transplant recipients. Vigilance for TMA and CG should be maintained in the presence of AKI of unknown cause.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
*Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects
*Thrombotic Microangiopathies/etiology/diagnosis/therapy/virology
Male
*Glomerulosclerosis, Focal Segmental/therapy/etiology/diagnosis/virology/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
Fatal Outcome
Middle Aged
Nephritis, Interstitial
Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized
RevDate: 2025-07-22
CmpDate: 2025-07-22
The Use of Technology in Clerkship Education: A Rapid Review.
The clinical teacher, 22(5):e70152.
BACKGROUND: There is growing interest in integrating technology into clinical clerkship education, particularly in response to disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, limited synthesis exists on how educational technologies are being used in clerkship settings, what instructional purposes they serve and what outcomes they produce.
METHODS: A rapid review was conducted to identify empirical studies published between January 2020 and January 2023 that examined educational technology use in undergraduate medical clerkships. We searched Medline, Embase and Web of Science for English-language studies focused on technology use with medical students in clinical learning environments. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively, with studies categorized by technology type, instructional purpose, reported benefits and challenges.
FINDINGS: From 1717 screened citations, 35 studies met inclusion criteria. The main technologies used included virtual reality, learning platforms, video conferencing tools and simulation-based systems. These technologies were primarily used for content delivery, interactive instruction and assessment. Reported advantages included enhanced learner engagement, realism, timely feedback and increased accessibility. Common challenges involved limited access to hardware, lack of robust outcome evaluation and concerns about transferability to real-world clinical performance. Most studies reported short-term outcomes, such as satisfaction and knowledge gain, rather than long-term skill development.
CONCLUSION: Technology integration in clerkship education has accelerated, but implementation remains uneven, and evaluations are often limited in scope. Educators should align technology use with instructional goals and assess its impact beyond immediate learner reactions. Future research should examine long-term outcomes, particularly in under-resourced or distributed clinical training environments.
Additional Links: PMID-40695455
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40695455,
year = {2025},
author = {Jung, E and Kavanagh, M and King, E and Samuel, A},
title = {The Use of Technology in Clerkship Education: A Rapid Review.},
journal = {The clinical teacher},
volume = {22},
number = {5},
pages = {e70152},
doi = {10.1111/tct.70152},
pmid = {40695455},
issn = {1743-498X},
mesh = {*Clinical Clerkship/methods/organization & administration ; Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Educational Technology ; Virtual Reality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is growing interest in integrating technology into clinical clerkship education, particularly in response to disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, limited synthesis exists on how educational technologies are being used in clerkship settings, what instructional purposes they serve and what outcomes they produce.
METHODS: A rapid review was conducted to identify empirical studies published between January 2020 and January 2023 that examined educational technology use in undergraduate medical clerkships. We searched Medline, Embase and Web of Science for English-language studies focused on technology use with medical students in clinical learning environments. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively, with studies categorized by technology type, instructional purpose, reported benefits and challenges.
FINDINGS: From 1717 screened citations, 35 studies met inclusion criteria. The main technologies used included virtual reality, learning platforms, video conferencing tools and simulation-based systems. These technologies were primarily used for content delivery, interactive instruction and assessment. Reported advantages included enhanced learner engagement, realism, timely feedback and increased accessibility. Common challenges involved limited access to hardware, lack of robust outcome evaluation and concerns about transferability to real-world clinical performance. Most studies reported short-term outcomes, such as satisfaction and knowledge gain, rather than long-term skill development.
CONCLUSION: Technology integration in clerkship education has accelerated, but implementation remains uneven, and evaluations are often limited in scope. Educators should align technology use with instructional goals and assess its impact beyond immediate learner reactions. Future research should examine long-term outcomes, particularly in under-resourced or distributed clinical training environments.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
*Clinical Clerkship/methods/organization & administration
Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Educational Technology
Virtual Reality
SARS-CoV-2
RevDate: 2025-07-22
Global PTSD prevalence among active first responders and trends over recent years: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Clinical psychology review, 120:102622 pii:S0272-7358(25)00089-3 [Epub ahead of print].
First responders in emergency services are inherently exposed to potentially psychologically traumatic events, increasing their risk for PTSD, burnout, and work incapacity. The current meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively compare PTSD prevalence within varied first responders in the context of both routine exposures and large-scale disasters, assess trends over recent years and differences between economic contexts. In January 2025, five databases were searched for peer-reviewed observational studies on employed or volunteering samples. Publication date was limited to post-2008, given meta-analyses addressing similar questions captured literature until this point. Random effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions explored trends over time and the impacts of exposure category, occupation, economic context, volunteer status, sex, and PTSD measurement. Analyses included 138 studies (173 independent samples). General samples with routine exposures possessed greater prevalence (14.3 %) than samples exposed to large-scale disasters (8.3 %). For the first time, there was some evidence of increasing prevalence over time within routine exposure samples. Low/middle-income countries and non-volunteers exhibited greater PTSD prevalence than high-income countries and volunteers. Prevalence varied based on PTSD outcome measurement, although no differences emerged between occupational and sex subgroups. Increasing PTSD prevalence over time appears to have been largely driven by increases observed since the COVID-19 pandemic, yet important questions remain regarding why prevalence has not decreased in relation to increasing efforts to support this population's mental health. All first responder occupations appear equally prone to PTSD, and thus equally in need of intervention. Workers in low/middle-income countries are particularly vulnerable to PTSD, potentially due to more limited resourcing.
Additional Links: PMID-40695158
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40695158,
year = {2025},
author = {Arena, AF and Gregory, M and Collins, DAJ and Vilus, B and Bryant, R and Harvey, SB and Deady, M},
title = {Global PTSD prevalence among active first responders and trends over recent years: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Clinical psychology review},
volume = {120},
number = {},
pages = {102622},
doi = {10.1016/j.cpr.2025.102622},
pmid = {40695158},
issn = {1873-7811},
abstract = {First responders in emergency services are inherently exposed to potentially psychologically traumatic events, increasing their risk for PTSD, burnout, and work incapacity. The current meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively compare PTSD prevalence within varied first responders in the context of both routine exposures and large-scale disasters, assess trends over recent years and differences between economic contexts. In January 2025, five databases were searched for peer-reviewed observational studies on employed or volunteering samples. Publication date was limited to post-2008, given meta-analyses addressing similar questions captured literature until this point. Random effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions explored trends over time and the impacts of exposure category, occupation, economic context, volunteer status, sex, and PTSD measurement. Analyses included 138 studies (173 independent samples). General samples with routine exposures possessed greater prevalence (14.3 %) than samples exposed to large-scale disasters (8.3 %). For the first time, there was some evidence of increasing prevalence over time within routine exposure samples. Low/middle-income countries and non-volunteers exhibited greater PTSD prevalence than high-income countries and volunteers. Prevalence varied based on PTSD outcome measurement, although no differences emerged between occupational and sex subgroups. Increasing PTSD prevalence over time appears to have been largely driven by increases observed since the COVID-19 pandemic, yet important questions remain regarding why prevalence has not decreased in relation to increasing efforts to support this population's mental health. All first responder occupations appear equally prone to PTSD, and thus equally in need of intervention. Workers in low/middle-income countries are particularly vulnerable to PTSD, potentially due to more limited resourcing.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-22
CmpDate: 2025-07-22
Best Practice: International Multisociety Consensus Statement for Post-COVID-19 Residual Abnormalities on Chest CT Scans.
Radiology, 316(1):e243374.
Residual lung abnormalities on CT scans after COVID-19 respiratory infection may be associated with persistent or progressive respiratory symptoms and frequently correlate with abnormal pulmonary function testing results. These abnormalities have been described using varying terms in numerous publications. Chest CT lung abnormalities after COVID-19 infection tend to stabilize or regress over time, indicating that they are nonprogressive and postinfectious in nature. This multisociety consensus statement, developed by 21 thoracic radiologists from the European Society of Thoracic Imaging, the Society of Thoracic Radiology, and the Asian Society of Thoracic Radiology with a two-round survey process, aims to standardize the indication, acquisition, and reporting of post-COVID-19 residual lung abnormalities on CT scans. Key recommendations include performing chest CT in patients with persistent or progressive respiratory symptoms 3 months after infection, using low-dose CT protocols (range, 1-3 mSv) for follow-up chest CT examinations, using Fleischner Society glossary of terms for radiologic descriptors, and avoiding the term interstitial lung abnormality to describe post-COVID-19 abnormalities. Instead, to prevent misinterpreting post-COVID-19 abnormalities as an early manifestation of interstitial lung disease, use the term post-COVID-19 residual lung abnormality. This consensus statement will help harmonize radiology practice and research for the substantial number of affected patients.
Additional Links: PMID-40693930
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40693930,
year = {2025},
author = {Yoon, SH and Kanne, JP and Ashizawa, K and Biederer, J and Castañer, E and Fan, L and Frauenfelder, T and Ghaye, B and Henry, TS and Huang, YS and Jeong, YJ and Kay, FU and Kligerman, S and Ko, JP and Parkar, AP and Piyavisetpat, N and Prosch, H and Raptis, CA and Simpson, S and Tanaka, N and Brown, KK and Inoue, Y and Sandbo, N and Richeldi, L and Larici, AR},
title = {Best Practice: International Multisociety Consensus Statement for Post-COVID-19 Residual Abnormalities on Chest CT Scans.},
journal = {Radiology},
volume = {316},
number = {1},
pages = {e243374},
doi = {10.1148/radiol.243374},
pmid = {40693930},
issn = {1527-1315},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/complications ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods/standards ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Consensus ; *Lung/diagnostic imaging ; *Radiography, Thoracic/methods ; Societies, Medical ; },
abstract = {Residual lung abnormalities on CT scans after COVID-19 respiratory infection may be associated with persistent or progressive respiratory symptoms and frequently correlate with abnormal pulmonary function testing results. These abnormalities have been described using varying terms in numerous publications. Chest CT lung abnormalities after COVID-19 infection tend to stabilize or regress over time, indicating that they are nonprogressive and postinfectious in nature. This multisociety consensus statement, developed by 21 thoracic radiologists from the European Society of Thoracic Imaging, the Society of Thoracic Radiology, and the Asian Society of Thoracic Radiology with a two-round survey process, aims to standardize the indication, acquisition, and reporting of post-COVID-19 residual lung abnormalities on CT scans. Key recommendations include performing chest CT in patients with persistent or progressive respiratory symptoms 3 months after infection, using low-dose CT protocols (range, 1-3 mSv) for follow-up chest CT examinations, using Fleischner Society glossary of terms for radiologic descriptors, and avoiding the term interstitial lung abnormality to describe post-COVID-19 abnormalities. Instead, to prevent misinterpreting post-COVID-19 abnormalities as an early manifestation of interstitial lung disease, use the term post-COVID-19 residual lung abnormality. This consensus statement will help harmonize radiology practice and research for the substantial number of affected patients.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/complications
*Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods/standards
SARS-CoV-2
Consensus
*Lung/diagnostic imaging
*Radiography, Thoracic/methods
Societies, Medical
RevDate: 2025-07-22
Endocan, a Potential Biomarker of Endothelial Dysfunction: A Brief Overview.
Angiology [Epub ahead of print].
Endocan (endothelial cell-specific molecule 1, ESM-1), is a proteoglycan produced by the vascular endothelium that modulates cellular functions such as adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Elevated serum endocan levels are associated with autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, acting as a marker of endothelial activation and dysfunction. This brief overview considers endocan's role in HTN, cirrhosis, diabetes, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), erectile dysfunction (ED), and psoriasis vulgaris. Data were gathered from research reporting endocan levels, illness markers, and clinical outcomes. Elevated endocan levels are associated with endothelial dysfunction, which contributes to diabetes complications and associated with vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) activation. In HTN, endocan promotes inflammatory signaling and lymphocyte infiltration. In liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, elevated levels correlate with hepatic fibrosis and poor prognosis. PAD patients show raised endocan correlating with disease severity. COVID-19 studies suggest coronavirus induces endotheliitis. In ED, higher endocan levels are linked with endothelial dysfunction and impaired vascular reactivity, serving as a potential biomarker for vascular-related ED. In psoriasis vulgaris, endocan levels correlate with disease severity and cardiovascular risk. The present brief overview supports that monitoring endocan levels may improve treatment and prognosis. Further research is required to define its clinical potential.
Additional Links: PMID-40693746
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40693746,
year = {2025},
author = {Bidlan, M and Kumar, M and Bhargava, A and Goel, V and Kumar, V},
title = {Endocan, a Potential Biomarker of Endothelial Dysfunction: A Brief Overview.},
journal = {Angiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {33197251356576},
doi = {10.1177/00033197251356576},
pmid = {40693746},
issn = {1940-1574},
abstract = {Endocan (endothelial cell-specific molecule 1, ESM-1), is a proteoglycan produced by the vascular endothelium that modulates cellular functions such as adhesion, migration, and proliferation. Elevated serum endocan levels are associated with autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, acting as a marker of endothelial activation and dysfunction. This brief overview considers endocan's role in HTN, cirrhosis, diabetes, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), erectile dysfunction (ED), and psoriasis vulgaris. Data were gathered from research reporting endocan levels, illness markers, and clinical outcomes. Elevated endocan levels are associated with endothelial dysfunction, which contributes to diabetes complications and associated with vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) activation. In HTN, endocan promotes inflammatory signaling and lymphocyte infiltration. In liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, elevated levels correlate with hepatic fibrosis and poor prognosis. PAD patients show raised endocan correlating with disease severity. COVID-19 studies suggest coronavirus induces endotheliitis. In ED, higher endocan levels are linked with endothelial dysfunction and impaired vascular reactivity, serving as a potential biomarker for vascular-related ED. In psoriasis vulgaris, endocan levels correlate with disease severity and cardiovascular risk. The present brief overview supports that monitoring endocan levels may improve treatment and prognosis. Further research is required to define its clinical potential.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-22
Microbial Dysbiosis as an Emerging Pathology of Suicidal Behaviour? A Critical Review, Passing Through Depression to Chronic Pain.
Annals of neurosciences [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Suicidal behaviour (SB) is one of the most complex neuropsychiatric conditions, with an etiopathogenesis that remains elusive despite a myriad of studies revealing its multifaceted nature, influenced by various biological, psychological, socioeconomic and cultural factors, usually with complex reciprocal and synergistic interactions. Emerging evidence has recently suggested a potential involvement of pathogens and host-tissue derived microbial species in contributing to SB. This review aims to provide a concise synthesis of clinical evidence focusing on the presence of microbial alterations in subjects with SB and in those exhibiting risk factors for SB, thereby exploring a possible new perspective in suicidology.
SUMMARY: We conducted a surveillance of the literature in the PUBMED database, from its inception to 10 May 2025, to identify associations between infection/microbial alterations with SB and some of its risk factors (by focusing on two pathologic examples of psychiatric and somatic origins, respectively: depression and chronic pain, two often closely related conditions). Major clinical findings were selected and synthesised into a hypothetical framework to support the presence of a microbe-related origin of SB. We found that SB was associated with selected infections, such as Toxoplasma gondii and Cytomegalovirus. Dysbiosis, including changes in diversity and/or abundance of selected microbial species, in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and other mucosal tissues, was observed in subjects with SB and individuals with psychiatric (depression) and somatic (chronic pain) risk factors of SB.
KEY MESSAGE: Microbial dysbiosis might contribute to SB etiopathogenesis. Further studies in this emerging field of research are expected to provide additional mechanistic insights for an improved understanding, prevention, and therapeutic management of this neuropsychiatric condition.
Additional Links: PMID-40693247
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40693247,
year = {2025},
author = {Costanza, A and Alexander, J and Amerio, A and Aguglia, A and Magnani, L and Parise, A and Saverino, D and Serafini, G and Amore, M and Nguyen, KD},
title = {Microbial Dysbiosis as an Emerging Pathology of Suicidal Behaviour? A Critical Review, Passing Through Depression to Chronic Pain.},
journal = {Annals of neurosciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {09727531251349024},
pmid = {40693247},
issn = {0972-7531},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Suicidal behaviour (SB) is one of the most complex neuropsychiatric conditions, with an etiopathogenesis that remains elusive despite a myriad of studies revealing its multifaceted nature, influenced by various biological, psychological, socioeconomic and cultural factors, usually with complex reciprocal and synergistic interactions. Emerging evidence has recently suggested a potential involvement of pathogens and host-tissue derived microbial species in contributing to SB. This review aims to provide a concise synthesis of clinical evidence focusing on the presence of microbial alterations in subjects with SB and in those exhibiting risk factors for SB, thereby exploring a possible new perspective in suicidology.
SUMMARY: We conducted a surveillance of the literature in the PUBMED database, from its inception to 10 May 2025, to identify associations between infection/microbial alterations with SB and some of its risk factors (by focusing on two pathologic examples of psychiatric and somatic origins, respectively: depression and chronic pain, two often closely related conditions). Major clinical findings were selected and synthesised into a hypothetical framework to support the presence of a microbe-related origin of SB. We found that SB was associated with selected infections, such as Toxoplasma gondii and Cytomegalovirus. Dysbiosis, including changes in diversity and/or abundance of selected microbial species, in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and other mucosal tissues, was observed in subjects with SB and individuals with psychiatric (depression) and somatic (chronic pain) risk factors of SB.
KEY MESSAGE: Microbial dysbiosis might contribute to SB etiopathogenesis. Further studies in this emerging field of research are expected to provide additional mechanistic insights for an improved understanding, prevention, and therapeutic management of this neuropsychiatric condition.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-22
Patient-centered group psychotherapy for depression and negative emotions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Frontiers in psychiatry, 16:1530615.
OBJECTIVE: Depressive disorders and negative emotions are a major global health challenge, affecting over 280 million people and worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditional treatments have limitations such as high relapse rates and accessibility issues. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of patient-centered group psychotherapy (PCGP) on depressive symptoms and functional outcomes, identify moderators, and provide recommendations.
METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, CNKI, and other databases through October 2024, including 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one Clinical study (total N = 1,989). Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Random-effects meta-analyses via RevMan 5.4 calculated risk ratios (RRs) and standardized mean differences (SMDs), with heterogeneity evaluated via I² statistics.
RESULTS: Eligible participants comprised adults (≥18 years) with a principal diagnosis of major depressive disorder (DSM-5/ICD-10 criteria) or clinically significant negative emotional symptoms (e.g., PHQ-9≥15), excluding those with primary non-depressive psychiatric comorbidities. Studies involving mixed populations were included only if subgroup data for depressed participants were extractable. PCGP showed significant positive effects on overall effectiveness (RR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.01-1.19, p = 0.03), symptom reduction (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores, SMD = -1.96, 95% CI: -2.31 to -1.61, p < 0.001), and functional outcomes (Personal and Social Performance (PSP) scores, SMD = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.41-2.51, p < 0.001). It also improved negative mood (SMD = -4.28, 95% CI: -8.03 to -0.52, p = 0.03) but with high heterogeneity (I² = 99.0%). A positive trend was noted for medication adherence (RR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.89-1.38, p = 0.35).
CONCLUSION: PCGP is an effective first-line adjunct therapy for depression, particularly in resource-limited settings. It addresses both symptom reduction and functional recovery by combining personalized goal-setting with group dynamics.
Additional Links: PMID-40692648
PubMed:
Citation:
show bibtex listing
hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid40692648,
year = {2025},
author = {Yin, YY and Wan, ZZ and Wang, B},
title = {Patient-centered group psychotherapy for depression and negative emotions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1530615},
pmid = {40692648},
issn = {1664-0640},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Depressive disorders and negative emotions are a major global health challenge, affecting over 280 million people and worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Traditional treatments have limitations such as high relapse rates and accessibility issues. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of patient-centered group psychotherapy (PCGP) on depressive symptoms and functional outcomes, identify moderators, and provide recommendations.
METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, CNKI, and other databases through October 2024, including 7 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and one Clinical study (total N = 1,989). Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Random-effects meta-analyses via RevMan 5.4 calculated risk ratios (RRs) and standardized mean differences (SMDs), with heterogeneity evaluated via I² statistics.
RESULTS: Eligible participants comprised adults (≥18 years) with a principal diagnosis of major depressive disorder (DSM-5/ICD-10 criteria) or clinically significant negative emotional symptoms (e.g., PHQ-9≥15), excluding those with primary non-depressive psychiatric comorbidities. Studies involving mixed populations were included only if subgroup data for depressed participants were extractable. PCGP showed significant positive effects on overall effectiveness (RR = 1.10, 95% CI: 1.01-1.19, p = 0.03), symptom reduction (Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores, SMD = -1.96, 95% CI: -2.31 to -1.61, p < 0.001), and functional outcomes (Personal and Social Performance (PSP) scores, SMD = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.41-2.51, p < 0.001). It also improved negative mood (SMD = -4.28, 95% CI: -8.03 to -0.52, p = 0.03) but with high heterogeneity (I² = 99.0%). A positive trend was noted for medication adherence (RR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.89-1.38, p = 0.35).
CONCLUSION: PCGP is an effective first-line adjunct therapy for depression, particularly in resource-limited settings. It addresses both symptom reduction and functional recovery by combining personalized goal-setting with group dynamics.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
CmpDate: 2025-07-21
The Perinatal Committee report: Review of the progress of obstetric healthcare in Japan.
The journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research, 51(7):e16354.
BACKGROUND: Japan's maternal mortality rate and perinatal mortality rate have shown one of the world's most significant declines, positioning Japan at the global forefront of the lowest levels. The nearly logarithmic annual decline in maternal and perinatal mortality rates suggests that, in addition to advances in medicine and healthcare, various types of care for mothers and newborns have played a crucial role in this achievement.
METHOD: From the period of World War II to the postwar era, up to around 1980, and then every decade thereafter, the events and movements surrounding perinatal healthcare in each era were examined from the perspectives of epidemiology, medical/healthcare advancements, and institutional/policy trends.
RESULTS: The major events in each era are outlined as follows: Until around 1980: After World War II, in 1948, several laws were enacted to protect mothers and fetuses, including the Maternal and Child Health Handbook, in 1966. The number of births experienced a baby boom for about 10 years following 1945, peaking in 1973. Birthplaces shifted from home deliveries to medical facilities, with doctors becoming the primary birth attendants. Academically, the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (JAOG) for Maternal Protection and the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) were established in 1949. In the medical field, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) were introduced and neonatal transport systems became well-established by the 1970s. In 1976, the limit of viability was revised from under 28 weeks of gestation to under 24 weeks. The late 1970s saw the fetal heart rate monitoring, the heartbeat detection using Doppler ultrasound and the ultrasound imaging techniques. 1980s: The perinatal medicine became well established, leading to hold The Japan Society of Perinatal Medicine. For fetal management, the fields of fetal diagnosis and fetal treatment entered their early stages with the widespread use of fetal heart rate monitoring and ultrasound imaging. In neonatal care, neonatal transport systems to NICU facilities were enhanced. A major breakthrough in this field was the discovery and widespread use of pulmonary surfactant. Two key concepts that emerged and advanced during this period were maternal transport systems and the Perinatal Maternal and Child Center initiative. In 1987, cases of hepatitis caused by non-heat-treated coagulation products became a major issue. As a result, informed consent affecting mothers and fetuses became a significant point of discussion. The Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist system was introduced, along with the regular publication of Training Notes for Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Glossary of Obstetrics and Gynecology Terms. As a result of these efforts, both the perinatal mortality rate and the maternal mortality rate were reduced by approximately half over the course of 10 years. 1990s: In 1991, the limit of viability was revised to 22 weeks of gestation. In terms of maternal care, nutritional management guidelines for general pregnant women were introduced. In fetal medicine, major topics included the administration of steroids to the mother to promote fetal lung maturation, as well as direct fetal treatments such as shunt procedures and needle aspirations. In neonatal care, inhaled nitric oxide therapy and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation treatment became more widely adopted. Following the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, in 1995, led to the development of the Disaster Medical Assistance Team and the establishment of Perinatal Maternal and Child Medical Center. In 1996, the Maternal Protection Law was enacted, and the Japan Council for Quality Health Care (JCQHC) was founded to standardize medical care. Asia & Oceania Federation of Obstetrics & Gynecology Journal and Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research were launched as English-language academic journals. 2000s: Japan's perinatal mortality rate became the lowest in the world, but the maternal mortality rate was still struggling. Obstetric care changed significantly after an obstetrician was arrested for causing a maternal death during a cesarean section. The JSOG and the JAOG developed practice guidelines describing standard obstetric diagnosis and treatments, and the JCQHC established the Japan Obstetric Compensation System for Cerebral Palsy. In addition, a project to report on maternal deaths by JAOG was also launched, and the combination of these measures led to form a framework of professional autonomy for obstetricians. During this period, brain hypothermic therapy for brain injury was developed. 2010s: The Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 led to major changes in disaster medical planning. This included the introduction of training programs for disaster medical coordinators and the development of disaster-time pediatric and perinatal liaisons. To enhance medical safety, JAOG launched an incidental case reporting system in 2004. Additionally, in 2010, a maternal mortality reporting system was introduced, followed by the maternal severe complications reporting system in 2021. The Japan Council for Implementation of Maternal Emergency Life-Saving System was established, along with the Japan Association for Labor Analgesia, a collaborative council for academic societies and organizations related to painless delivery. Suicide as a significant cause of maternal death led to the establishment of the "Mother and Child Mental Forum" academic conference, which later evolved into the Mental Health Care for Mother & Child training program. In the field of prenatal testing, non-invasive prenatal testing was introduced as a clinical research initiative. From 2020 onward: The year 2020 began with the global outbreak of COVID-19. Until 2023, numerous issues arose due to repeated pandemics, including delivery methods and locations for COVID-positive pregnant women, standard precautions during labor, mother-infant separation after birth, vaccination, so on. JSOG and JAOG worked together to address these challenges. The most pressing issue in the perinatal field is the declining birth rate. Alongside an aging workforce of physicians and a shortage of successors, the decrease in new obstetric clinic openings has become a major concern. By 2024, the decrease in the number of full-time obstetricians and the overtime work limits in Medical Care Act are making it necessary to reconsider the structure of obstetric medical services. Japan's perinatal care system, which has maintained the highest global standards, now stands at a major crossroads.
CONCLUSION: Researchers (clinicians), academic societies, and professional organizations, centered on the mother and child, have collaborated with support from the government, making progress and building the current safe pregnancy and childbirth management system. However, significant issues remain that need urgent attention, including regulations on overtime work, securing obstetrician numbers, the rapid decline in childbirth facilities, and the functional collapse of perinatal maternal-child healthcare centers. These are critical challenges that must be addressed promptly.
Additional Links: PMID-40690975
PubMed:
Citation:
show bibtex listing
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@article {pmid40690975,
year = {2025},
author = {Satoh, S and Itakura, A and Ikeda, T and Kurasawa, K and Nakai, A},
title = {The Perinatal Committee report: Review of the progress of obstetric healthcare in Japan.},
journal = {The journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research},
volume = {51},
number = {7},
pages = {e16354},
pmid = {40690975},
issn = {1447-0756},
mesh = {Humans ; Japan ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Obstetrics/history/trends ; History, 20th Century ; Infant, Newborn ; *Perinatal Care/history/trends ; Maternal Mortality/trends ; History, 21st Century ; Societies, Medical/history ; Perinatal Mortality/trends ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Japan's maternal mortality rate and perinatal mortality rate have shown one of the world's most significant declines, positioning Japan at the global forefront of the lowest levels. The nearly logarithmic annual decline in maternal and perinatal mortality rates suggests that, in addition to advances in medicine and healthcare, various types of care for mothers and newborns have played a crucial role in this achievement.
METHOD: From the period of World War II to the postwar era, up to around 1980, and then every decade thereafter, the events and movements surrounding perinatal healthcare in each era were examined from the perspectives of epidemiology, medical/healthcare advancements, and institutional/policy trends.
RESULTS: The major events in each era are outlined as follows: Until around 1980: After World War II, in 1948, several laws were enacted to protect mothers and fetuses, including the Maternal and Child Health Handbook, in 1966. The number of births experienced a baby boom for about 10 years following 1945, peaking in 1973. Birthplaces shifted from home deliveries to medical facilities, with doctors becoming the primary birth attendants. Academically, the Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (JAOG) for Maternal Protection and the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) were established in 1949. In the medical field, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) were introduced and neonatal transport systems became well-established by the 1970s. In 1976, the limit of viability was revised from under 28 weeks of gestation to under 24 weeks. The late 1970s saw the fetal heart rate monitoring, the heartbeat detection using Doppler ultrasound and the ultrasound imaging techniques. 1980s: The perinatal medicine became well established, leading to hold The Japan Society of Perinatal Medicine. For fetal management, the fields of fetal diagnosis and fetal treatment entered their early stages with the widespread use of fetal heart rate monitoring and ultrasound imaging. In neonatal care, neonatal transport systems to NICU facilities were enhanced. A major breakthrough in this field was the discovery and widespread use of pulmonary surfactant. Two key concepts that emerged and advanced during this period were maternal transport systems and the Perinatal Maternal and Child Center initiative. In 1987, cases of hepatitis caused by non-heat-treated coagulation products became a major issue. As a result, informed consent affecting mothers and fetuses became a significant point of discussion. The Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist system was introduced, along with the regular publication of Training Notes for Obstetricians and Gynecologists and Glossary of Obstetrics and Gynecology Terms. As a result of these efforts, both the perinatal mortality rate and the maternal mortality rate were reduced by approximately half over the course of 10 years. 1990s: In 1991, the limit of viability was revised to 22 weeks of gestation. In terms of maternal care, nutritional management guidelines for general pregnant women were introduced. In fetal medicine, major topics included the administration of steroids to the mother to promote fetal lung maturation, as well as direct fetal treatments such as shunt procedures and needle aspirations. In neonatal care, inhaled nitric oxide therapy and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation treatment became more widely adopted. Following the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, in 1995, led to the development of the Disaster Medical Assistance Team and the establishment of Perinatal Maternal and Child Medical Center. In 1996, the Maternal Protection Law was enacted, and the Japan Council for Quality Health Care (JCQHC) was founded to standardize medical care. Asia & Oceania Federation of Obstetrics & Gynecology Journal and Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research were launched as English-language academic journals. 2000s: Japan's perinatal mortality rate became the lowest in the world, but the maternal mortality rate was still struggling. Obstetric care changed significantly after an obstetrician was arrested for causing a maternal death during a cesarean section. The JSOG and the JAOG developed practice guidelines describing standard obstetric diagnosis and treatments, and the JCQHC established the Japan Obstetric Compensation System for Cerebral Palsy. In addition, a project to report on maternal deaths by JAOG was also launched, and the combination of these measures led to form a framework of professional autonomy for obstetricians. During this period, brain hypothermic therapy for brain injury was developed. 2010s: The Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011 led to major changes in disaster medical planning. This included the introduction of training programs for disaster medical coordinators and the development of disaster-time pediatric and perinatal liaisons. To enhance medical safety, JAOG launched an incidental case reporting system in 2004. Additionally, in 2010, a maternal mortality reporting system was introduced, followed by the maternal severe complications reporting system in 2021. The Japan Council for Implementation of Maternal Emergency Life-Saving System was established, along with the Japan Association for Labor Analgesia, a collaborative council for academic societies and organizations related to painless delivery. Suicide as a significant cause of maternal death led to the establishment of the "Mother and Child Mental Forum" academic conference, which later evolved into the Mental Health Care for Mother & Child training program. In the field of prenatal testing, non-invasive prenatal testing was introduced as a clinical research initiative. From 2020 onward: The year 2020 began with the global outbreak of COVID-19. Until 2023, numerous issues arose due to repeated pandemics, including delivery methods and locations for COVID-positive pregnant women, standard precautions during labor, mother-infant separation after birth, vaccination, so on. JSOG and JAOG worked together to address these challenges. The most pressing issue in the perinatal field is the declining birth rate. Alongside an aging workforce of physicians and a shortage of successors, the decrease in new obstetric clinic openings has become a major concern. By 2024, the decrease in the number of full-time obstetricians and the overtime work limits in Medical Care Act are making it necessary to reconsider the structure of obstetric medical services. Japan's perinatal care system, which has maintained the highest global standards, now stands at a major crossroads.
CONCLUSION: Researchers (clinicians), academic societies, and professional organizations, centered on the mother and child, have collaborated with support from the government, making progress and building the current safe pregnancy and childbirth management system. However, significant issues remain that need urgent attention, including regulations on overtime work, securing obstetrician numbers, the rapid decline in childbirth facilities, and the functional collapse of perinatal maternal-child healthcare centers. These are critical challenges that must be addressed promptly.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Japan
Female
Pregnancy
*Obstetrics/history/trends
History, 20th Century
Infant, Newborn
*Perinatal Care/history/trends
Maternal Mortality/trends
History, 21st Century
Societies, Medical/history
Perinatal Mortality/trends
RevDate: 2025-07-21
CmpDate: 2025-07-21
Optimizing the breadth of SARS-CoV-2-neutralizing antibodies in vivo and in silico.
Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 21(1):2526873.
Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the ongoing arms race between mutating viruses and human antibodies has revealed several novel strategies by which antibodies adapt to viral escape. While SARS-CoV-2 viruses exhibit high variability in epitopes targeted by neutralizing antibodies, certain epitopes remain conserved owing to their essential roles on viral fitness. Antibodies can acquire broadly neutralizing activity by targeting these vulnerable sites through affinity-based somatic evolution of immunoglobulin genes. Notably, the specificity encoded in antibody germline genes also plays a fundamental role in acquiring the breadth. In-depth genetic and structural analyses of the antibody repertoires have uncovered multiple strategies for adapting to evolving targets. The integration of large-scale antibody datasets with computational approaches increases the feasibility and efficiency of designing broadly neutralizing antibody therapeutics from ancestral antibody clones with limited initial efficacy. In this review, we discuss strategies to optimize antibody breadth for the development of broadly neutralizing antibody therapeutics and vaccine antigens.
Additional Links: PMID-40690731
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid40690731,
year = {2025},
author = {Kuroda, D and Moriyama, S and Sasaki, H and Takahashi, Y},
title = {Optimizing the breadth of SARS-CoV-2-neutralizing antibodies in vivo and in silico.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {2526873},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2025.2526873},
pmid = {40690731},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; Epitopes/immunology ; Computer Simulation ; *Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies/immunology ; Animals ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the ongoing arms race between mutating viruses and human antibodies has revealed several novel strategies by which antibodies adapt to viral escape. While SARS-CoV-2 viruses exhibit high variability in epitopes targeted by neutralizing antibodies, certain epitopes remain conserved owing to their essential roles on viral fitness. Antibodies can acquire broadly neutralizing activity by targeting these vulnerable sites through affinity-based somatic evolution of immunoglobulin genes. Notably, the specificity encoded in antibody germline genes also plays a fundamental role in acquiring the breadth. In-depth genetic and structural analyses of the antibody repertoires have uncovered multiple strategies for adapting to evolving targets. The integration of large-scale antibody datasets with computational approaches increases the feasibility and efficiency of designing broadly neutralizing antibody therapeutics from ancestral antibody clones with limited initial efficacy. In this review, we discuss strategies to optimize antibody breadth for the development of broadly neutralizing antibody therapeutics and vaccine antigens.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
Epitopes/immunology
Computer Simulation
*Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies/immunology
Animals
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-21
A review of telehospice use during the COVID-19 pandemic.
International journal of palliative nursing, 31(7):337-347.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional hospice care, prompting the use of telehospice to deliver end-of-life services remotely while maintaining quality and continuity of care.
AIM: This integrative review examines the feasibility, effectiveness and challenges of telehospice during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on patient outcomes and caregiver experiences.
METHOD: An integrative review approach was used to analyse 12 peer-reviewed studies published between January 2020 and June 2023.
FINDINGS: Telehospice enhanced access to care in rural and underserved areas, enabled timely symptom management and strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration. Families reported improved communication, emotional support and involvement in decision-making. However, challenges to telehospice care such as limited internet access, digital literacy gaps and difficulties replicating the intimacy of in-person care were frequently noted.
CONCLUSION: Telehospice is a feasible and acceptable model for end-of-life care. Ongoing investment in infrastructure, training and equitable access is essential for long-term integration.
Additional Links: PMID-40690407
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40690407,
year = {2025},
author = {Abordo, J and Casabona, A and Resonable, G and Narvaez, RA},
title = {A review of telehospice use during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {International journal of palliative nursing},
volume = {31},
number = {7},
pages = {337-347},
doi = {10.12968/ijpn.2025.0022},
pmid = {40690407},
issn = {2052-286X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Hospice Care ; Pandemics ; *Telemedicine ; *Terminal Care ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional hospice care, prompting the use of telehospice to deliver end-of-life services remotely while maintaining quality and continuity of care.
AIM: This integrative review examines the feasibility, effectiveness and challenges of telehospice during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on patient outcomes and caregiver experiences.
METHOD: An integrative review approach was used to analyse 12 peer-reviewed studies published between January 2020 and June 2023.
FINDINGS: Telehospice enhanced access to care in rural and underserved areas, enabled timely symptom management and strengthened interdisciplinary collaboration. Families reported improved communication, emotional support and involvement in decision-making. However, challenges to telehospice care such as limited internet access, digital literacy gaps and difficulties replicating the intimacy of in-person care were frequently noted.
CONCLUSION: Telehospice is a feasible and acceptable model for end-of-life care. Ongoing investment in infrastructure, training and equitable access is essential for long-term integration.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Hospice Care
Pandemics
*Telemedicine
*Terminal Care
RevDate: 2025-07-23
CmpDate: 2025-07-23
The association of COVID-19 lockdowns with adverse birth and pregnancy outcomes in 28 high-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Nature human behaviour, 9(7):1420-1430.
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to review the association of lockdowns with adverse birth and pregnancy outcomes (ABPOs) and related inequalities, in high-income countries (HICs). Databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed and Web of Science) were searched from 1 January 2019 to 22 June 2023 for original observational studies based in HICs that compared the rates of ABPOs, before and during lockdowns. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa tool for cohort studies. We ran random-effects meta-analyses and subgroup analyses per region, lockdown period, ethnicity group and deprivation level and adjusted for underlying temporal trends. A total of 132 studies were meta-analysed from 28 HICs. Reduced rates of preterm birth (reported by 26 studies) were associated with the first lockdown (relative risk 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.93-0.99), 11 studies adjusted for long-term trends and the association remained (0.97, 0.95-0.99), and subgroup analysis found that this association varied by continental region. Ten studies reported positive screening rates for possible depression antenatally, and lockdown was associated with increases in positive screening rates (1.37, 1.06-1.78). No other ABPOs were associated with lockdowns. Investigation of inequalities was limited due to data availability and heterogeneity; further research is warranted on the effect of lockdowns on health inequalities. This study was funded by the National Institute of Health Research, School of Primary Care Research and registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022327448).
Additional Links: PMID-40307433
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40307433,
year = {2025},
author = {Hindes, I and Sarwar, HN and Gravesteijn, BY and Jardine, J and Burgos-Ochoa, L and Been, JV and Zenner, D and Iliodromiti, S},
title = {The association of COVID-19 lockdowns with adverse birth and pregnancy outcomes in 28 high-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Nature human behaviour},
volume = {9},
number = {7},
pages = {1420-1430},
pmid = {40307433},
issn = {2397-3374},
support = {C007//DH | National Institute for Health Research (NIHR)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Female ; *Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology ; *Premature Birth/epidemiology ; *Developed Countries/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Quarantine ; },
abstract = {We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to review the association of lockdowns with adverse birth and pregnancy outcomes (ABPOs) and related inequalities, in high-income countries (HICs). Databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE/PubMed and Web of Science) were searched from 1 January 2019 to 22 June 2023 for original observational studies based in HICs that compared the rates of ABPOs, before and during lockdowns. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa tool for cohort studies. We ran random-effects meta-analyses and subgroup analyses per region, lockdown period, ethnicity group and deprivation level and adjusted for underlying temporal trends. A total of 132 studies were meta-analysed from 28 HICs. Reduced rates of preterm birth (reported by 26 studies) were associated with the first lockdown (relative risk 0.96, 95% confidence interval 0.93-0.99), 11 studies adjusted for long-term trends and the association remained (0.97, 0.95-0.99), and subgroup analysis found that this association varied by continental region. Ten studies reported positive screening rates for possible depression antenatally, and lockdown was associated with increases in positive screening rates (1.37, 1.06-1.78). No other ABPOs were associated with lockdowns. Investigation of inequalities was limited due to data availability and heterogeneity; further research is warranted on the effect of lockdowns on health inequalities. This study was funded by the National Institute of Health Research, School of Primary Care Research and registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022327448).},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Pregnancy
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Female
*Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology
*Premature Birth/epidemiology
*Developed Countries/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
*Quarantine
RevDate: 2025-07-21
The roles of macrophages and monocytes in COVID-19 Severe Respiratory Syndrome.
Cell insight, 4(4):100250.
The global COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the pivotal role of the immune system in the development of severe respiratory symptoms, termed COVID-19 Severe Respiratory Syndrome (COVID-19-SR). This review aims to dissect the involvement of lung macrophages and monocytes in orchestrating immune responses to SARS-CoV-2, influencing disease severity and outcomes. Initially, we provide an overview of SARS-CoV-2's invasion process and the body's primary immune defense mechanisms, including the antibody complement system and cytokine production. We then delve into the roles of the monocyte-macrophage system in mediating hyperinflammation and cytokine storms, discussing how abnormal cytokine and chemokine levels contribute to disease progression. Subsequent sections examine the perturbations and overactivation of the monocyte-macrophage compartment during infection, linking these changes to the observed immune dysregulation in COVID-19 patients. In light of these insights, we explore therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages, such as dexamethasone, antisense lipid nanoparticles(ALN), and inhaled recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rh-GM-CSF), which aim to modulate inflammation, suppress viral replication, and enhance viral clearance. Additional potential treatments include GSDMD inhibitors and GPR183 antagonists, which warrant further investigation. This review synthesizes current understanding of the immunopathology underlying COVID-19-SR, proposing macrophage- and monocyte-centered therapeutic avenues and outlining future research priorities essential for advancing clinical management and improving patient outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-40689082
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40689082,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Shan, R and Miller, H and Filatov, A and Byazrova, MG and Yang, L and Liu, C},
title = {The roles of macrophages and monocytes in COVID-19 Severe Respiratory Syndrome.},
journal = {Cell insight},
volume = {4},
number = {4},
pages = {100250},
pmid = {40689082},
issn = {2772-8927},
abstract = {The global COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the pivotal role of the immune system in the development of severe respiratory symptoms, termed COVID-19 Severe Respiratory Syndrome (COVID-19-SR). This review aims to dissect the involvement of lung macrophages and monocytes in orchestrating immune responses to SARS-CoV-2, influencing disease severity and outcomes. Initially, we provide an overview of SARS-CoV-2's invasion process and the body's primary immune defense mechanisms, including the antibody complement system and cytokine production. We then delve into the roles of the monocyte-macrophage system in mediating hyperinflammation and cytokine storms, discussing how abnormal cytokine and chemokine levels contribute to disease progression. Subsequent sections examine the perturbations and overactivation of the monocyte-macrophage compartment during infection, linking these changes to the observed immune dysregulation in COVID-19 patients. In light of these insights, we explore therapeutic strategies targeting macrophages, such as dexamethasone, antisense lipid nanoparticles(ALN), and inhaled recombinant human granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (rh-GM-CSF), which aim to modulate inflammation, suppress viral replication, and enhance viral clearance. Additional potential treatments include GSDMD inhibitors and GPR183 antagonists, which warrant further investigation. This review synthesizes current understanding of the immunopathology underlying COVID-19-SR, proposing macrophage- and monocyte-centered therapeutic avenues and outlining future research priorities essential for advancing clinical management and improving patient outcomes.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
A systematic review of the pivotal role of environmental toxicant exposure on infectious diseases in low- and middle-income countries.
Public health in practice (Oxford, England), 10:100631.
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review is to identify which environmental toxicants are linked to infectious diseases in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by synthesizing available evidence. It aims to summarize key findings, identify research gaps and provide policy recommendations based on the associations between specific toxicants and disease outcomes.
STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review.
METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (core collection), and CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library) to identify studies on bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogenic activity.
RESULT: This search yielded 11,468 studies, of which 55 met inclusion criteria after screening following the standard methods. A consistent association is found between particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) exposure and increased respiratory infection risk, with PM2.5 particularly linked to increased incidence and mortality in diseases like COVID-19 and tuberculosis. Heavy metals, including lead, cadmium, and mercury worsen chronic infections such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis by increasing body burden and inflammation. The review highlights air pollutants' substantial impact on infectious disease spread and severity while noting a research gap on other pollutants including persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Bias assessment indicates around half the studies show low risk of bias; however, potential biases were noted in confounding variables and blinding of outcome assessment.
CONCLUSION: The systematic review emphasizes the need for research on biological mechanisms underlying these associations and the impacts of other pollutants. Findings advocate for reducing environmental pollution exposure in LMICs to mitigate infectious disease risk.
Additional Links: PMID-40688748
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40688748,
year = {2025},
author = {Haque, R and Islam, MS and Hanson, M and Rahaman, MZ and Afrin, S and Shome, S and Rahman, M and Rahman, SM and Saif-Ur-Rahman, KM and Raqib, R},
title = {A systematic review of the pivotal role of environmental toxicant exposure on infectious diseases in low- and middle-income countries.},
journal = {Public health in practice (Oxford, England)},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100631},
pmid = {40688748},
issn = {2666-5352},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review is to identify which environmental toxicants are linked to infectious diseases in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by synthesizing available evidence. It aims to summarize key findings, identify research gaps and provide policy recommendations based on the associations between specific toxicants and disease outcomes.
STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review.
METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (core collection), and CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library) to identify studies on bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogenic activity.
RESULT: This search yielded 11,468 studies, of which 55 met inclusion criteria after screening following the standard methods. A consistent association is found between particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) exposure and increased respiratory infection risk, with PM2.5 particularly linked to increased incidence and mortality in diseases like COVID-19 and tuberculosis. Heavy metals, including lead, cadmium, and mercury worsen chronic infections such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis by increasing body burden and inflammation. The review highlights air pollutants' substantial impact on infectious disease spread and severity while noting a research gap on other pollutants including persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Bias assessment indicates around half the studies show low risk of bias; however, potential biases were noted in confounding variables and blinding of outcome assessment.
CONCLUSION: The systematic review emphasizes the need for research on biological mechanisms underlying these associations and the impacts of other pollutants. Findings advocate for reducing environmental pollution exposure in LMICs to mitigate infectious disease risk.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
Missed opportunities: The unknown impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early childhood development in the WHO European region.
Public health in practice (Oxford, England), 10:100636.
BACKGROUND: Early childhood experiences can promote or adversely affect children's development and wellbeing with lifelong impact. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted children's and families' lives worldwide. It is important to understand the effect on early childhood development. We aimed to examine what is known about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the related public health measures, on young children's development.
STUDY DESIGN: We carried out a mixed-method study which included a scoping review of review-level evidence about early childhood development over the course of the pandemic compared to beforehand and a web-based survey of early childhood development data published in the WHO European Region.
METHODS: A systematic search of three databases was used to identify studies, published in English, up to November 2024. Findings were synthesised narratively by developmental domain. A web-based search was used to identify, routinely collected, national surveillance child development data in the WHO European Region. To illustrate the potential role of routine surveillance in the timely identification of developmental concerns, trend data from Scotland was examined.
RESULTS: Seven reviews met the inclusion criteria. Most studies examined young children's mental health, while others assessed language development, mother-child bonding, and broader developmental outcomes. Findings were inconsistent, with some studies reporting adverse effects, with others finding no significant changes. There were significant gaps in the availability of national surveillance child development data in WHO European Region countries. Scottish surveillance data identified increases in developmental concerns, which affected disadvantaged groups more.
CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence about the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, and related public health measures, on early childhood development is limited and inconclusive. Strengthening data collection and reporting across the WHO European Region is essential for timely and accurate assessment of developmental outcomes and to guide policy development.
Additional Links: PMID-40688746
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40688746,
year = {2025},
author = {White, JM and Goodfellow, CL and Adeleke, AO and Awde, FP and Chua, YW and Jovic, A and Scott, E},
title = {Missed opportunities: The unknown impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on early childhood development in the WHO European region.},
journal = {Public health in practice (Oxford, England)},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {100636},
pmid = {40688746},
issn = {2666-5352},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Early childhood experiences can promote or adversely affect children's development and wellbeing with lifelong impact. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted children's and families' lives worldwide. It is important to understand the effect on early childhood development. We aimed to examine what is known about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the related public health measures, on young children's development.
STUDY DESIGN: We carried out a mixed-method study which included a scoping review of review-level evidence about early childhood development over the course of the pandemic compared to beforehand and a web-based survey of early childhood development data published in the WHO European Region.
METHODS: A systematic search of three databases was used to identify studies, published in English, up to November 2024. Findings were synthesised narratively by developmental domain. A web-based search was used to identify, routinely collected, national surveillance child development data in the WHO European Region. To illustrate the potential role of routine surveillance in the timely identification of developmental concerns, trend data from Scotland was examined.
RESULTS: Seven reviews met the inclusion criteria. Most studies examined young children's mental health, while others assessed language development, mother-child bonding, and broader developmental outcomes. Findings were inconsistent, with some studies reporting adverse effects, with others finding no significant changes. There were significant gaps in the availability of national surveillance child development data in WHO European Region countries. Scottish surveillance data identified increases in developmental concerns, which affected disadvantaged groups more.
CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence about the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic, and related public health measures, on early childhood development is limited and inconclusive. Strengthening data collection and reporting across the WHO European Region is essential for timely and accurate assessment of developmental outcomes and to guide policy development.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
When normality collapses from one moment to the next. A sociological theory of singular crisis.
Frontiers in sociology, 10:1596427.
Since the emergence of sociology, it has been part of the discipline's self-image to diagnose crises in modern societies. Sociology, however, has no theory that differentiates between normal and extranormal or singular crises. In this article, we want to develop a crisis typology that distinguishes between these two types. While a normal crisis is characterised by cyclical and structural patterns, which usually build up gradually and lead to incremental change, a singular crisis is characterised by eruptive ruptures in relation to the pre-crisis state. Such ruptures can challenge the traditional social order, both institutionally and narratively. Unlike normal crises, a singular crisis is marked by exogenous shocks like wars, natural disasters, or pandemics. This shock marks the beginning of a process of crisis intervention, which we examine to reconstruct the sociological peculiarities of a singular crisis. By using the Covid-19-crisis as an empirical slide, we analyse a singular crisis and list various dimensions and criteria-namely involvement and impact, temporality, principle of order, social change, isomorphism, path dependency, collective morality, mode of legitimation and spatial order-that can be used to differentiate between singular and normal crises.
Additional Links: PMID-40687982
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40687982,
year = {2025},
author = {Kraemer, K and Steg, J},
title = {When normality collapses from one moment to the next. A sociological theory of singular crisis.},
journal = {Frontiers in sociology},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {1596427},
pmid = {40687982},
issn = {2297-7775},
abstract = {Since the emergence of sociology, it has been part of the discipline's self-image to diagnose crises in modern societies. Sociology, however, has no theory that differentiates between normal and extranormal or singular crises. In this article, we want to develop a crisis typology that distinguishes between these two types. While a normal crisis is characterised by cyclical and structural patterns, which usually build up gradually and lead to incremental change, a singular crisis is characterised by eruptive ruptures in relation to the pre-crisis state. Such ruptures can challenge the traditional social order, both institutionally and narratively. Unlike normal crises, a singular crisis is marked by exogenous shocks like wars, natural disasters, or pandemics. This shock marks the beginning of a process of crisis intervention, which we examine to reconstruct the sociological peculiarities of a singular crisis. By using the Covid-19-crisis as an empirical slide, we analyse a singular crisis and list various dimensions and criteria-namely involvement and impact, temporality, principle of order, social change, isomorphism, path dependency, collective morality, mode of legitimation and spatial order-that can be used to differentiate between singular and normal crises.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
Adaptive Response: A Scoping Review of Its Implications in Medicine, Space Exploration, and Beyond.
Dose-response : a publication of International Hormesis Society, 23(3):15593258251360051.
OBJECTIVES: Radiation Adaptive Response (AR) is a biological phenomenon in which exposure to low-dose radiation (LDR) enhances an organism's ability to withstand subsequent higher doses. This scoping review explores AR across multiple disciplines, summarizing evidence, identifying research gaps, and evaluating potential applications in cancer therapy, neurodegenerative disease management, space medicine, and pandemic response.
METHODS: A comprehensive review of experimental/clinical studies on AR was conducted, focusing on molecular mechanisms, biological implications, biophysical modeling, and translational applications.
RESULTS: In oncology, AR has shown promise in selectively protecting normal tissues during radiotherapy while sensitizing tumor cells, yet its effects remain cell-type dependent. LDR may manage neurodegenerative diseases by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation. In space medicine, AR-based astronaut selection has been proposed as a novel strategy to mitigate radiation risks during long-term space missions, although empirical validation is lacking. LDR therapy for managing COVID-19 pneumonia has been explored, but ethical concerns and long-term safety risks require further investigation.
CONCLUSION: Despite AR's potential, its clinical and spaceflight implementation requires mechanistic elucidation, standardized protocols, and rigorous studies. The risks of tumorigenesis, individual variability in AR, and potential immunomodulatory effects must be evaluated before widespread application. Moreover, inconsistent AR appearance complicates its study and clinical use.
Additional Links: PMID-40686626
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40686626,
year = {2025},
author = {Kanani, A and Krasowska, J and Fornalski, KW and Bevelacqua, JJ and Welsh, J and Mortazavi, S},
title = {Adaptive Response: A Scoping Review of Its Implications in Medicine, Space Exploration, and Beyond.},
journal = {Dose-response : a publication of International Hormesis Society},
volume = {23},
number = {3},
pages = {15593258251360051},
pmid = {40686626},
issn = {1559-3258},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Radiation Adaptive Response (AR) is a biological phenomenon in which exposure to low-dose radiation (LDR) enhances an organism's ability to withstand subsequent higher doses. This scoping review explores AR across multiple disciplines, summarizing evidence, identifying research gaps, and evaluating potential applications in cancer therapy, neurodegenerative disease management, space medicine, and pandemic response.
METHODS: A comprehensive review of experimental/clinical studies on AR was conducted, focusing on molecular mechanisms, biological implications, biophysical modeling, and translational applications.
RESULTS: In oncology, AR has shown promise in selectively protecting normal tissues during radiotherapy while sensitizing tumor cells, yet its effects remain cell-type dependent. LDR may manage neurodegenerative diseases by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation. In space medicine, AR-based astronaut selection has been proposed as a novel strategy to mitigate radiation risks during long-term space missions, although empirical validation is lacking. LDR therapy for managing COVID-19 pneumonia has been explored, but ethical concerns and long-term safety risks require further investigation.
CONCLUSION: Despite AR's potential, its clinical and spaceflight implementation requires mechanistic elucidation, standardized protocols, and rigorous studies. The risks of tumorigenesis, individual variability in AR, and potential immunomodulatory effects must be evaluated before widespread application. Moreover, inconsistent AR appearance complicates its study and clinical use.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
Distinguishing Collaboration From Other Group Work to Help Public Health and Other Sectors Solve Wicked Problems to Improve Health and Well-Being for All.
Public health reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974) [Epub ahead of print].
Public health devotes significant resources to address "wicked" challenges, a term coined nearly 50 years ago to distinguish complex problems from tame problems. Tame problems (eg, building a hospital) may be difficult, but known experts and agreed-upon processes exist to address them. Wicked problems (eg, the obesity epidemic) seem intractable, with no agreed-upon solution or cause. Broad agreement exists that wicked problems require collaboration, especially in periods of hyperuncertainty, marked by the rapid onset of multiple wicked problems and uncertainty. One example of a recent hyperuncertain period occurred in 2020, beginning with major political shifts, followed rapidly by COVID-19, widespread social unrest, and multiple crises from extreme weather events (eg, hurricanes). With collaboration increasing, collaboration scholars lament the lack of broad consensus on what distinguishes collaboration from other group work (eg, coordination). Without a common understanding of and roadmap to build collaboration, public health is limited to address wicked problems. To support effective collaboration, we synthesized 4 decades of scholarship to identify where scholars across 3 related areas of collaboration literature are coalescing on the unique elements required for collaboration. From our synthesis, we created a new definition to distinguish collaboration from other group work, including its requisite key elements that public health can use as guideposts to collaborate effectively. We found no explicit focus on these key elements in the public health collaboration articles reviewed, a gap this article seeks to fill. Longer term, public health agencies and schools can use this work to bolster transdisciplinary collaborative problem-solving capacity.
Additional Links: PMID-40686451
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40686451,
year = {2025},
author = {Alderman, L and Beck, E},
title = {Distinguishing Collaboration From Other Group Work to Help Public Health and Other Sectors Solve Wicked Problems to Improve Health and Well-Being for All.},
journal = {Public health reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {333549251349417},
doi = {10.1177/00333549251349417},
pmid = {40686451},
issn = {1468-2877},
abstract = {Public health devotes significant resources to address "wicked" challenges, a term coined nearly 50 years ago to distinguish complex problems from tame problems. Tame problems (eg, building a hospital) may be difficult, but known experts and agreed-upon processes exist to address them. Wicked problems (eg, the obesity epidemic) seem intractable, with no agreed-upon solution or cause. Broad agreement exists that wicked problems require collaboration, especially in periods of hyperuncertainty, marked by the rapid onset of multiple wicked problems and uncertainty. One example of a recent hyperuncertain period occurred in 2020, beginning with major political shifts, followed rapidly by COVID-19, widespread social unrest, and multiple crises from extreme weather events (eg, hurricanes). With collaboration increasing, collaboration scholars lament the lack of broad consensus on what distinguishes collaboration from other group work (eg, coordination). Without a common understanding of and roadmap to build collaboration, public health is limited to address wicked problems. To support effective collaboration, we synthesized 4 decades of scholarship to identify where scholars across 3 related areas of collaboration literature are coalescing on the unique elements required for collaboration. From our synthesis, we created a new definition to distinguish collaboration from other group work, including its requisite key elements that public health can use as guideposts to collaborate effectively. We found no explicit focus on these key elements in the public health collaboration articles reviewed, a gap this article seeks to fill. Longer term, public health agencies and schools can use this work to bolster transdisciplinary collaborative problem-solving capacity.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-21
Australasian Bronchiolitis Guideline: 2025 Update.
Journal of paediatrics and child health [Epub ahead of print].
AIM: To provide updated evidence-based clinical guidance in the management of infants with bronchiolitis presenting to emergency departments (EDs), general paediatric, or intensive care units (ICUs) in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) following the first publication in 2016.
METHOD: The Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT) network guideline working group appraised, summarised, and updated evidence from 1 January 2000 to 24 January 2024 addressing 41 questions (30 from the 2016 guideline and 11 new questions for 2025). Recommendations were developed using GRADE methodology and revised after a period of external consultation.
RESULTS: The literature search identified 26 467 citations with 431 included in 41 recommendations providing 11 new and 7 key updates. The key changes included: (i) refinement of the clinical features of bronchiolitis, (ii) addition of new risk factors for severity of illness, (iii) advice on the role of biomarkers for unexpected deterioration or admission to ICU, (iv) guidance on glucocorticoids in SARS-CoV-2 co-infection, (v) guidance on combined glucocorticoids/inhaled epinephrine in severe bronchiolitis requiring ICU level care, (vi) refinement of oxygen saturation targets, (vii) guidance on humidified high flow therapy and continuous positive airway pressure, (viii) recommendation on use of RSV prevention therapies/immunisations for babies and mothers.
CONCLUSION: The updated Australasian Bronchiolitis Guideline provides clinicians across Australasian settings with the latest evidence-based guidance on the management of the commonest condition in infancy requiring hospital admission.
Additional Links: PMID-40685806
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40685806,
year = {2025},
author = {Borland, ML and Loveys, K and Babl, FE and Cotterell, E and Haskell, L and O'Brien, S and Oakley, E and Wilson, CL and Alsweiler, J and Armstrong, D and Craig, SS and Crawford, NW and Crellin, D and Crone, S and Duke, T and George, S and Jeffries-Stokes, C and Krishnan, N and Lithgow, A and Peacock, K and Ratoni, T and Richmond, P and Smith, A and Starkie, R and Thomas, D and Wallace, A and Zhang, M and Tavender, E and Dalziel, SR and , },
title = {Australasian Bronchiolitis Guideline: 2025 Update.},
journal = {Journal of paediatrics and child health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jpc.70144},
pmid = {40685806},
issn = {1440-1754},
support = {//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; //State Government of Victoria/ ; //Cure Kids/ ; //Royal Children's Hospital Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {AIM: To provide updated evidence-based clinical guidance in the management of infants with bronchiolitis presenting to emergency departments (EDs), general paediatric, or intensive care units (ICUs) in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) following the first publication in 2016.
METHOD: The Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT) network guideline working group appraised, summarised, and updated evidence from 1 January 2000 to 24 January 2024 addressing 41 questions (30 from the 2016 guideline and 11 new questions for 2025). Recommendations were developed using GRADE methodology and revised after a period of external consultation.
RESULTS: The literature search identified 26 467 citations with 431 included in 41 recommendations providing 11 new and 7 key updates. The key changes included: (i) refinement of the clinical features of bronchiolitis, (ii) addition of new risk factors for severity of illness, (iii) advice on the role of biomarkers for unexpected deterioration or admission to ICU, (iv) guidance on glucocorticoids in SARS-CoV-2 co-infection, (v) guidance on combined glucocorticoids/inhaled epinephrine in severe bronchiolitis requiring ICU level care, (vi) refinement of oxygen saturation targets, (vii) guidance on humidified high flow therapy and continuous positive airway pressure, (viii) recommendation on use of RSV prevention therapies/immunisations for babies and mothers.
CONCLUSION: The updated Australasian Bronchiolitis Guideline provides clinicians across Australasian settings with the latest evidence-based guidance on the management of the commonest condition in infancy requiring hospital admission.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-20
CmpDate: 2025-07-20
Oncolytic virotherapy and tumor microenvironment modulation.
Clinical and experimental medicine, 25(1):256.
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have emerged as a transformative approach in cancer therapy, offering tumor-specific lysis while sparing normal tissues. In addition to their direct cytolytic effects, OVs actively reshape the tumor microenvironment (TME) by enhancing immune infiltration, disrupting immunosuppressive signals, and promoting tumor antigen presentation. However, the complexity of the TME poses challenges, often necessitating combination therapies to improve OV efficacy and overcome tumor resistance. This review explores the evolution of oncolytic virotherapy, from the early use of naturally occurring viruses to the development of genetically engineered OVs. Among the most significant advancements, T-VEC, an FDA-approved herpesvirus, has been modified to express GM-CSF, enhancing immune activation in metastatic melanoma. Similarly, JX-594, a vaccinia virus, has been engineered for selective replication in tumor cells, demonstrating the potential of OVs to combine direct oncolysis with immune modulation. Other HSV-based OVs, such as HF10 and HSV1716, further highlight the ability of OVs to enhance immune cell infiltration and increase antigen presentation within the TME. Recent advances in tumor microenvironment remodeling have expanded OV therapeutic strategies. By converting immunologically "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors, OVs can overcome immune evasion through mechanisms such as enhanced antigen release, immune checkpoint inhibition, and metabolic reprogramming. To maximize therapeutic potential, researchers are developing genetically engineered OVs carrying immune-stimulatory transgenes, exploring synergistic combination therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors, and utilizing nanoparticle-based delivery systems for improved precision. Additionally, novel OVs-including measles virus, Newcastle virus, Zika virus, and SARS-CoV-2-are being investigated for their unique ability to disrupt the TME and enhance anti-tumor immunity. Looking ahead, OV therapy will depend on optimizing TME-targeted strategies, improving viral delivery mechanisms, and identifying predictive biomarkers to personalize patient responses. Advances in viral engineering and immunomodulation hold the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment, offering more precise and effective therapeutic options. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of current progress in oncolytic virotherapy, emphasizing its potential to remodel the TME and improve clinical outcomes.
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@article {pmid40685482,
year = {2025},
author = {Rivera-Orellana, S and Bautista, J and Palacios-Zavala, D and Ojeda-Mosquera, S and Altamirano-Colina, A and Alcocer-Veintimilla, M and Parrales-Rosales, G and Izquierdo-Condoy, JS and Vásconez-González, J and Ortiz-Prado, E and Muslin, C and López-Cortés, A},
title = {Oncolytic virotherapy and tumor microenvironment modulation.},
journal = {Clinical and experimental medicine},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {256},
pmid = {40685482},
issn = {1591-9528},
mesh = {*Oncolytic Virotherapy/methods ; Humans ; *Tumor Microenvironment/immunology ; *Oncolytic Viruses/genetics ; *Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Oncolytic viruses (OVs) have emerged as a transformative approach in cancer therapy, offering tumor-specific lysis while sparing normal tissues. In addition to their direct cytolytic effects, OVs actively reshape the tumor microenvironment (TME) by enhancing immune infiltration, disrupting immunosuppressive signals, and promoting tumor antigen presentation. However, the complexity of the TME poses challenges, often necessitating combination therapies to improve OV efficacy and overcome tumor resistance. This review explores the evolution of oncolytic virotherapy, from the early use of naturally occurring viruses to the development of genetically engineered OVs. Among the most significant advancements, T-VEC, an FDA-approved herpesvirus, has been modified to express GM-CSF, enhancing immune activation in metastatic melanoma. Similarly, JX-594, a vaccinia virus, has been engineered for selective replication in tumor cells, demonstrating the potential of OVs to combine direct oncolysis with immune modulation. Other HSV-based OVs, such as HF10 and HSV1716, further highlight the ability of OVs to enhance immune cell infiltration and increase antigen presentation within the TME. Recent advances in tumor microenvironment remodeling have expanded OV therapeutic strategies. By converting immunologically "cold" tumors into "hot" tumors, OVs can overcome immune evasion through mechanisms such as enhanced antigen release, immune checkpoint inhibition, and metabolic reprogramming. To maximize therapeutic potential, researchers are developing genetically engineered OVs carrying immune-stimulatory transgenes, exploring synergistic combination therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors, and utilizing nanoparticle-based delivery systems for improved precision. Additionally, novel OVs-including measles virus, Newcastle virus, Zika virus, and SARS-CoV-2-are being investigated for their unique ability to disrupt the TME and enhance anti-tumor immunity. Looking ahead, OV therapy will depend on optimizing TME-targeted strategies, improving viral delivery mechanisms, and identifying predictive biomarkers to personalize patient responses. Advances in viral engineering and immunomodulation hold the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment, offering more precise and effective therapeutic options. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of current progress in oncolytic virotherapy, emphasizing its potential to remodel the TME and improve clinical outcomes.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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*Oncolytic Virotherapy/methods
Humans
*Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
*Oncolytic Viruses/genetics
*Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
Animals
RevDate: 2025-07-20
CRISPR Technology in Disease Management: An Updated Review of Clinical Translation and Therapeutic Potential.
Cell proliferation [Epub ahead of print].
CRISPR-Cas9 technology has rapidly advanced as a transformative genome-editing platform, facilitating precise genetic modifications and expanding therapeutic opportunities across various diseases. This review explores recent developments and clinical translations of CRISPR applications in oncology, genetic and neurological disorders, infectious diseases, immunotherapy, diagnostics, and epigenome editing. CRISPR has notably progressed in oncology, where it enables the identification of novel cancer drivers, elucidation of resistance mechanisms, and improvement of immunotherapies through engineered T cells, including PD-1 knockout CAR-T cells. Clinical trials employing CRISPR-edited cells are demonstrating promising results in hematologic malignancies and solid tumours. In genetic disorders, such as hemoglobinopathies and muscular dystrophies, CRISPR-Cas9 alongside advanced editors like base and prime editors show significant potential for correcting pathogenic mutations. This potential was affirmed with the FDA's first approval of a CRISPR-based therapy, Casgevy, for sickle cell disease in 2023. Neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's, ALS, and Huntington's disease, are increasingly targeted by CRISPR approaches for disease modelling and potential therapeutic intervention. In infectious diseases, CRISPR-based diagnostics such as SHERLOCK and DETECTR provide rapid, sensitive nucleic acid detection, particularly valuable in pathogen outbreaks like SARS-CoV-2. Therapeutically, CRISPR systems target viral and bacterial genomes, offering novel treatment modalities. Additionally, CRISPR-mediated epigenome editing enables precise regulation of gene expression, expanding therapeutic possibilities. Despite these advances, significant challenges remain, including off-target effects, delivery methodologies, immune responses, and long-term genomic safety concerns. Future improvements in editor precision, innovative delivery platforms, and enhanced safety assessments will be essential to fully integrate CRISPR-based interventions into standard clinical practice, significantly advancing personalised medicine.
Additional Links: PMID-40685330
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@article {pmid40685330,
year = {2025},
author = {Far, BF and Akbari, M and Habibi, MA and Katavand, M and Nasseri, S},
title = {CRISPR Technology in Disease Management: An Updated Review of Clinical Translation and Therapeutic Potential.},
journal = {Cell proliferation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70099},
doi = {10.1111/cpr.70099},
pmid = {40685330},
issn = {1365-2184},
abstract = {CRISPR-Cas9 technology has rapidly advanced as a transformative genome-editing platform, facilitating precise genetic modifications and expanding therapeutic opportunities across various diseases. This review explores recent developments and clinical translations of CRISPR applications in oncology, genetic and neurological disorders, infectious diseases, immunotherapy, diagnostics, and epigenome editing. CRISPR has notably progressed in oncology, where it enables the identification of novel cancer drivers, elucidation of resistance mechanisms, and improvement of immunotherapies through engineered T cells, including PD-1 knockout CAR-T cells. Clinical trials employing CRISPR-edited cells are demonstrating promising results in hematologic malignancies and solid tumours. In genetic disorders, such as hemoglobinopathies and muscular dystrophies, CRISPR-Cas9 alongside advanced editors like base and prime editors show significant potential for correcting pathogenic mutations. This potential was affirmed with the FDA's first approval of a CRISPR-based therapy, Casgevy, for sickle cell disease in 2023. Neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's, ALS, and Huntington's disease, are increasingly targeted by CRISPR approaches for disease modelling and potential therapeutic intervention. In infectious diseases, CRISPR-based diagnostics such as SHERLOCK and DETECTR provide rapid, sensitive nucleic acid detection, particularly valuable in pathogen outbreaks like SARS-CoV-2. Therapeutically, CRISPR systems target viral and bacterial genomes, offering novel treatment modalities. Additionally, CRISPR-mediated epigenome editing enables precise regulation of gene expression, expanding therapeutic possibilities. Despite these advances, significant challenges remain, including off-target effects, delivery methodologies, immune responses, and long-term genomic safety concerns. Future improvements in editor precision, innovative delivery platforms, and enhanced safety assessments will be essential to fully integrate CRISPR-based interventions into standard clinical practice, significantly advancing personalised medicine.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-20
Diagnosing Respiratory Long COVID: a Practical Approach.
Chest pii:S0012-3692(25)00811-6 [Epub ahead of print].
Long COVID or post-COVID Condition, defined as the persistence of symptoms at least three months post-acute COVID-19 infection, is a novel condition where a definitive diagnostic marker and treatment has yet to be found. This condition, which has been estimated to impact more than 65 million individuals worldwide, manifests with multisystem involvement, most commonly presenting with fatigue, brain fog, dyspnea and/or cough. The burden of these symptoms can range from mild to severe with many patients reporting an inability to return to usual activities. Here, we present several hypothetical but clinically representative cases to allow discussion around how we approach the diagnosis of respiratory symptoms of Long COVID in those with and without chronic lung disease.
Additional Links: PMID-40684905
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@article {pmid40684905,
year = {2025},
author = {Gershon, AS and Fung, D and Lam, GY},
title = {Diagnosing Respiratory Long COVID: a Practical Approach.},
journal = {Chest},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.chest.2025.06.028},
pmid = {40684905},
issn = {1931-3543},
abstract = {Long COVID or post-COVID Condition, defined as the persistence of symptoms at least three months post-acute COVID-19 infection, is a novel condition where a definitive diagnostic marker and treatment has yet to be found. This condition, which has been estimated to impact more than 65 million individuals worldwide, manifests with multisystem involvement, most commonly presenting with fatigue, brain fog, dyspnea and/or cough. The burden of these symptoms can range from mild to severe with many patients reporting an inability to return to usual activities. Here, we present several hypothetical but clinically representative cases to allow discussion around how we approach the diagnosis of respiratory symptoms of Long COVID in those with and without chronic lung disease.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-20
The impact of viral evolution on vaccine development for SARS-CoV-2.
Current opinion in immunology, 96:102612 pii:S0952-7915(25)00088-3 [Epub ahead of print].
In order to stay circulating in the human population over many years, viruses need to adapt to the environment, mainly to the host's immune response, allowing for reinfection despite preexisting immunity. These different viral strategies are clearly important for guiding vaccine design. SARS-CoV-2 is no exception, using three main strategies to avoid protective and long-lived antibody responses: one very common and two rather unique tactics, consisting of 1) random mutation to partially escape existing antibody responses, 2) increasing affinity of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein to it's receptor Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE 2), and 3) diluting out neutralizing epitopes on the viral surface to avoid strong and enduring antibody responses. As the correlate of protection from SARS-CoV-2 is neutralizing antibody response, this review focuses on B cells, the major player in protecting against COVID-19.
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@article {pmid40684673,
year = {2025},
author = {Bachmann, MF and Mohsen, MO and Speiser, DE},
title = {The impact of viral evolution on vaccine development for SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {96},
number = {},
pages = {102612},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2025.102612},
pmid = {40684673},
issn = {1879-0372},
abstract = {In order to stay circulating in the human population over many years, viruses need to adapt to the environment, mainly to the host's immune response, allowing for reinfection despite preexisting immunity. These different viral strategies are clearly important for guiding vaccine design. SARS-CoV-2 is no exception, using three main strategies to avoid protective and long-lived antibody responses: one very common and two rather unique tactics, consisting of 1) random mutation to partially escape existing antibody responses, 2) increasing affinity of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein to it's receptor Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE 2), and 3) diluting out neutralizing epitopes on the viral surface to avoid strong and enduring antibody responses. As the correlate of protection from SARS-CoV-2 is neutralizing antibody response, this review focuses on B cells, the major player in protecting against COVID-19.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
Strategies for the Prevention and Management of Respiratory Infections in Patients at High Risk in the UAE: A Cross-Disciplinary Position Paper.
Pulmonary therapy [Epub ahead of print].
Respiratory infections are a major cause of mortality among young children and adults, particularly the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions. Many respiratory infections, including influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), have available vaccines and antiviral agents. However, vaccine coverage rates remain low. Experts representing a broad spectrum of medical specialties from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made evidence-based recommendations on treating patients considered high risk for respiratory infections, highlighting gaps in current practices and suggesting strategies for improved communication between healthcare professionals and patients. To effectively manage respiratory infections, the experts emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines, considering all vaccines and antiviral treatments, and strictly following vaccination schedules. Early testing upon recognition of symptoms was also encouraged. Improving vaccine uptake was considered crucial and could be achieved by educating patients about disease prevention through vaccines and the role of antiviral treatments for COVID-19. Addressing knowledge gaps and combating vaccine hesitancy among both patients and healthcare professionals were also essential steps. Recommendations for future initiatives include healthcare professionals educating the public on precautionary measures to reduce the spread of respiratory infections. Additionally, the experts agreed that clinical management guidelines for chronic diseases should be updated to include preventative strategies such as vaccines, prophylaxis, and counselling. Monitoring the performance of healthcare facilities using key performance indicators is also recommended to ensure effective management and continuous improvement of vaccination programs. Patient populations in the UAE who are considered at high risk of serious disease from respiratory infections have diverse medical needs and may access healthcare across a wide range of settings and specialisms. Therefore, it is vital that all healthcare professionals across specialisms who may engage with these individuals are able to provide appropriate advice on managing the risk through vaccination, prompt testing, and treatments as needed.
Additional Links: PMID-40684072
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40684072,
year = {2025},
author = {Shehab, A and Al Dhanhani, H and Alhammadi, O and Hassan, MB and Farghaly, M and Hassoun, A and Mahboub, B and Tahlak, M and Abutayeh, RF and Haridy, H and Hassanien, A and Joury, J and Al-Shamsi, HO},
title = {Strategies for the Prevention and Management of Respiratory Infections in Patients at High Risk in the UAE: A Cross-Disciplinary Position Paper.},
journal = {Pulmonary therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40684072},
issn = {2364-1746},
abstract = {Respiratory infections are a major cause of mortality among young children and adults, particularly the elderly or those with underlying medical conditions. Many respiratory infections, including influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal disease, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), have available vaccines and antiviral agents. However, vaccine coverage rates remain low. Experts representing a broad spectrum of medical specialties from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) made evidence-based recommendations on treating patients considered high risk for respiratory infections, highlighting gaps in current practices and suggesting strategies for improved communication between healthcare professionals and patients. To effectively manage respiratory infections, the experts emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines, considering all vaccines and antiviral treatments, and strictly following vaccination schedules. Early testing upon recognition of symptoms was also encouraged. Improving vaccine uptake was considered crucial and could be achieved by educating patients about disease prevention through vaccines and the role of antiviral treatments for COVID-19. Addressing knowledge gaps and combating vaccine hesitancy among both patients and healthcare professionals were also essential steps. Recommendations for future initiatives include healthcare professionals educating the public on precautionary measures to reduce the spread of respiratory infections. Additionally, the experts agreed that clinical management guidelines for chronic diseases should be updated to include preventative strategies such as vaccines, prophylaxis, and counselling. Monitoring the performance of healthcare facilities using key performance indicators is also recommended to ensure effective management and continuous improvement of vaccination programs. Patient populations in the UAE who are considered at high risk of serious disease from respiratory infections have diverse medical needs and may access healthcare across a wide range of settings and specialisms. Therefore, it is vital that all healthcare professionals across specialisms who may engage with these individuals are able to provide appropriate advice on managing the risk through vaccination, prompt testing, and treatments as needed.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
Chronic inflammation in Long COVID relationship to autoimmune diseases.
Autoimmunity reviews pii:S1568-9972(25)00142-9 [Epub ahead of print].
The new coronavirus pandemic has been ongoing for nearly five years. In addition to the severe symptoms in the acute phase, it is accompanied by long-term complications and sequelae involving the respiratory, neurological, immune, circulatory, and gastrointestinal systems for several months or even years, which is called the Long COVID. Many studies have suggested that systemic chronic inflammation caused by residual viral components may be one of the pathophysiologic mechanisms of Long COVID. In this paper, we will review the autoimmune diseases caused by chronic inflammation. In particular, cytokine storminess, pro-inflammatory responses of inflammatory vesicles, mast cell activation syndrome, changes in the gut microbiota, molecular mimicry, reactivation of latent viruses, and coagulation abnormalities are among the pathways that contribute to autoimmune diseases, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Guillain-Barré syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis. We intervene in the treatment of the disease with probiotics, immunoglobulins, the RECOVER clinical trial model, and immunomodulatory drugs. The aim is to enhance understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism of Long COVID and to provide a reference for the immunotherapy of patients.
Additional Links: PMID-40683613
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@article {pmid40683613,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, K and Wang, Z and Li, J and Xu, Y and Gu, S and Li, H and Li, J and Zhang, Y and Mao, N},
title = {Chronic inflammation in Long COVID relationship to autoimmune diseases.},
journal = {Autoimmunity reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {103882},
doi = {10.1016/j.autrev.2025.103882},
pmid = {40683613},
issn = {1873-0183},
abstract = {The new coronavirus pandemic has been ongoing for nearly five years. In addition to the severe symptoms in the acute phase, it is accompanied by long-term complications and sequelae involving the respiratory, neurological, immune, circulatory, and gastrointestinal systems for several months or even years, which is called the Long COVID. Many studies have suggested that systemic chronic inflammation caused by residual viral components may be one of the pathophysiologic mechanisms of Long COVID. In this paper, we will review the autoimmune diseases caused by chronic inflammation. In particular, cytokine storminess, pro-inflammatory responses of inflammatory vesicles, mast cell activation syndrome, changes in the gut microbiota, molecular mimicry, reactivation of latent viruses, and coagulation abnormalities are among the pathways that contribute to autoimmune diseases, including Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Guillain-Barré syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis. We intervene in the treatment of the disease with probiotics, immunoglobulins, the RECOVER clinical trial model, and immunomodulatory drugs. The aim is to enhance understanding of the pathophysiological mechanism of Long COVID and to provide a reference for the immunotherapy of patients.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
Pre- and postapproval diagnostic test accuracy of FDA-authorized rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests used according to instruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases pii:S1198-743X(25)00349-0 [Epub ahead of print].
BACKGROUND: Manufacturers claim high sensitivity for rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests on product labels, yet systematic reviews report considerably lower sensitivity.
OBJECTIVES: To describe study characteristics and compare the sensitivity and specificity United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests in pre-versus postapproval studies.
METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES: FDA website, Medline, Embase, and Google Scholar.
STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Diagnostic test accuracy studies according to instruction for use.
PARTICIPANTS: Patients with symptoms of COVID-19.
TEST(S): Rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests.
REFERENCE STANDARD: Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.
ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF BIAS: QUADAS-2 tool.
METHODS OF DATA SYNTHESIS: Bivariate binomial-normal restricted maximum likelihood random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regressions applying the delta method and likelihood ratio tests.
RESULTS: We identified postapproval studies for 13 of 61 (21%) rapid antigen tests, of which nine tests had eligible studies. The analysis incorporated 13 preapproval studies (591 COVID-19 cases, 3,155 participants) and 26 postapproval studies (2,765 cases, 12,444 participants). The pooled sensitivity for pre- and postapproval studies was 86.5% (95% CI: 83.3-89.1) and 84.5% (95% CI: 81.2-87.3), respectively. The absolute difference was 2.0% (95% CI: -1.9 to 6.2) and (0%, 95% CI: -0.6 to 0.6) for sensitivity and specificity, respectively. Two of the nine tests had lower sensitivity in postapproval studies.
DISCUSSION: Our study found that sensitivity estimates from postapproval studies on FDA-approved rapid antigen tests are largely consistent with manufacturers' estimates. However, for two of the nine tests, postapproval sensitivity was lower than the manufacturers' high estimates. Differences in sensitivity observed in prior systematic reviews likely result from variations in study populations, not bias in study conduct. Given that 79% of FDA-approved rapid antigen tests lacked postapproval studies, ongoing evaluations are needed to ensure alignment with clinical expectations.
REGISTRATION: The study was preregistered, and the protocol is available at https://osf.io/97cft.
Additional Links: PMID-40683420
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PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40683420,
year = {2025},
author = {Damkjær, M and Laursen, DRT and Elkjær, M and Gerke, O and Lundh, A and Hróbjartsson, A and Schroll, JB},
title = {Pre- and postapproval diagnostic test accuracy of FDA-authorized rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests used according to instruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2025.07.009},
pmid = {40683420},
issn = {1469-0691},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Manufacturers claim high sensitivity for rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests on product labels, yet systematic reviews report considerably lower sensitivity.
OBJECTIVES: To describe study characteristics and compare the sensitivity and specificity United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests in pre-versus postapproval studies.
METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES: FDA website, Medline, Embase, and Google Scholar.
STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Diagnostic test accuracy studies according to instruction for use.
PARTICIPANTS: Patients with symptoms of COVID-19.
TEST(S): Rapid antigen SARS-CoV-2 tests.
REFERENCE STANDARD: Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.
ASSESSMENT OF RISK OF BIAS: QUADAS-2 tool.
METHODS OF DATA SYNTHESIS: Bivariate binomial-normal restricted maximum likelihood random-effects meta-analysis and meta-regressions applying the delta method and likelihood ratio tests.
RESULTS: We identified postapproval studies for 13 of 61 (21%) rapid antigen tests, of which nine tests had eligible studies. The analysis incorporated 13 preapproval studies (591 COVID-19 cases, 3,155 participants) and 26 postapproval studies (2,765 cases, 12,444 participants). The pooled sensitivity for pre- and postapproval studies was 86.5% (95% CI: 83.3-89.1) and 84.5% (95% CI: 81.2-87.3), respectively. The absolute difference was 2.0% (95% CI: -1.9 to 6.2) and (0%, 95% CI: -0.6 to 0.6) for sensitivity and specificity, respectively. Two of the nine tests had lower sensitivity in postapproval studies.
DISCUSSION: Our study found that sensitivity estimates from postapproval studies on FDA-approved rapid antigen tests are largely consistent with manufacturers' estimates. However, for two of the nine tests, postapproval sensitivity was lower than the manufacturers' high estimates. Differences in sensitivity observed in prior systematic reviews likely result from variations in study populations, not bias in study conduct. Given that 79% of FDA-approved rapid antigen tests lacked postapproval studies, ongoing evaluations are needed to ensure alignment with clinical expectations.
REGISTRATION: The study was preregistered, and the protocol is available at https://osf.io/97cft.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
Nanobodies: A New Frontier in Antiviral Therapies.
SLAS discovery : advancing life sciences R & D pii:S2472-5552(25)00044-9 [Epub ahead of print].
Nanobodies, derived from the immune systems of camelids such as alpacas and llamas, represent a novel class of therapeutics with significant potential in fighting respiratory viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. Nanobodies are small biomolecules that are highly stable and have unique binding features that allow for the effective neutralization of viral particles and inhibition of viral replication. This review highlights the advantages of nanobodies over traditional antibodies, including cost-effective production and enhanced specificity for target antigens. We discuss the mechanisms through which nanobodies block viral entry, their applications in diagnostics, and the methodologies for their development, such as phage display technology. Furthermore, we explore the efficacy of nanobodies in preclinical studies and their potential in clinical settings. As research progresses, structural optimization and the exploration of combination therapies may enhance their therapeutic efficacy, providing a promising approach for addressing global health challenges caused by emerging viral pathogens.
Additional Links: PMID-40683410
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40683410,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammed, A and Muustafa, MI},
title = {Nanobodies: A New Frontier in Antiviral Therapies.},
journal = {SLAS discovery : advancing life sciences R & D},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {100251},
doi = {10.1016/j.slasd.2025.100251},
pmid = {40683410},
issn = {2472-5560},
abstract = {Nanobodies, derived from the immune systems of camelids such as alpacas and llamas, represent a novel class of therapeutics with significant potential in fighting respiratory viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. Nanobodies are small biomolecules that are highly stable and have unique binding features that allow for the effective neutralization of viral particles and inhibition of viral replication. This review highlights the advantages of nanobodies over traditional antibodies, including cost-effective production and enhanced specificity for target antigens. We discuss the mechanisms through which nanobodies block viral entry, their applications in diagnostics, and the methodologies for their development, such as phage display technology. Furthermore, we explore the efficacy of nanobodies in preclinical studies and their potential in clinical settings. As research progresses, structural optimization and the exploration of combination therapies may enhance their therapeutic efficacy, providing a promising approach for addressing global health challenges caused by emerging viral pathogens.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
The Lancet One Health Commission: harnessing our interconnectedness for equitable, sustainable, and healthy socioecological systems.
Lancet (London, England) pii:S0140-6736(25)00627-0 [Epub ahead of print].
Additional Links: PMID-40683291
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@article {pmid40683291,
year = {2025},
author = {Winkler, AS and Brux, CM and Carabin, H and das Neves, CG and Häsler, B and Zinsstag, J and Fèvre, EM and Okello, A and Laing, G and Harrison, WE and Pöntinen, AK and Huber, A and Ruckert, A and Natterson-Horowitz, B and Abela, B and Aenishaenslin, C and Heymann, DL and Rødland, EK and Berthe, FCJ and Capua, I and Sejvar, J and Lubroth, J and Corander, J and May, J and Roth, LF and Thomas, LF and Blumberg, L and Lapinski, MK and Stone, M and Agbogbatey, MK and Xiao, N and Hassan, OA and Dar, O and Daszak, P and Guinto, RR and Senturk, S and Sahay, S and Samuels, TA and Wasteson, Y and Amuasi, JH},
title = {The Lancet One Health Commission: harnessing our interconnectedness for equitable, sustainable, and healthy socioecological systems.},
journal = {Lancet (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00627-0},
pmid = {40683291},
issn = {1474-547X},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
A template tool for the evaluation of vaccines for emerging pathogens to be used for pregnant and breast-feeding women.
Vaccine, 62:127513 pii:S0264-410X(25)00810-2 [Epub ahead of print].
Vaccination during pregnancy provides effective protection against pathogens that increase the risk of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality for mothers and their infants. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic demonstrated the need for the inclusion of pregnant and breast-feeding women in research and development of vaccines for emerging pathogens, such as Ebola, Zika, Lassa fever, Chikungunya, and influenza virus of pandemic potential. The COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) Maternal Immunization Working Group (MIWG), in collaboration with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation and the Safety Platform for Emergency Vaccines (CEPI-SPEAC) developed a standardized template with key considerations to guide the assessment of vaccines against emerging pathogens in pregnant and breast-feeding women. The aim of this tool is to enable key stakeholders to perform an early structured assessment of the overall potential benefit and risk for maternal immunization against an emerging pathogen. It can also be used to support risk management and pharmacovigilance planning, communication strategies, policy development, and acceptance of vaccination during pregnancy in future pandemics.
Additional Links: PMID-40683139
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@article {pmid40683139,
year = {2025},
author = {Munoz, FM and Kampmann, B and Stergachis, A and Chaudhary, M and Cutland, CL and Khalil, A and Gentile, A and Jones, CE and Marshall, H and Sevene, E and Darko, DM and Swamy, G and Hyde, TB and Voss, G and Muelen, AS},
title = {A template tool for the evaluation of vaccines for emerging pathogens to be used for pregnant and breast-feeding women.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {62},
number = {},
pages = {127513},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127513},
pmid = {40683139},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {Vaccination during pregnancy provides effective protection against pathogens that increase the risk of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality for mothers and their infants. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic demonstrated the need for the inclusion of pregnant and breast-feeding women in research and development of vaccines for emerging pathogens, such as Ebola, Zika, Lassa fever, Chikungunya, and influenza virus of pandemic potential. The COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) Maternal Immunization Working Group (MIWG), in collaboration with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovation and the Safety Platform for Emergency Vaccines (CEPI-SPEAC) developed a standardized template with key considerations to guide the assessment of vaccines against emerging pathogens in pregnant and breast-feeding women. The aim of this tool is to enable key stakeholders to perform an early structured assessment of the overall potential benefit and risk for maternal immunization against an emerging pathogen. It can also be used to support risk management and pharmacovigilance planning, communication strategies, policy development, and acceptance of vaccination during pregnancy in future pandemics.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
Contemporary Clinical Management of Otosyphilis for Practicing Otolaryngologists-A Scoping Review.
The Laryngoscope [Epub ahead of print].
OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic marked the resurgence of an old disease, syphilis. The CDC reported increased syphilis cases in the United States from 2016 to 2022, necessitating early recognition of syphilis to properly diagnose complications. We revisit otosyphilis management with the intent of developing an updated diagnostic testing algorithm and treatment plan for otolaryngologists to prevent worsening hearing loss.
DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases.
METHODS: A scoping review of diagnostic and treatment methods for otosyphilis was completed and reported in compliance with the guidelines outlined in the PRISMA-ScR extension for scoping reviews statement. A retrospective case series was also conducted by reviewing patient charts from a tertiary care hospital network. Patients with otosyphilis or neurosyphilis with otic symptoms, as diagnosed by an otolaryngology or infectious disease specialist, were included.
RESULTS: In 57 studies (222 patients), the mean reported symptom duration was 6.6 ± 5.0 weeks (n = 30) with nine outliers presenting after 6 months (65%) had hearing loss, 95 (43%) tinnitus, and 53 (24%) vertigo. Most (97%) received penicillin. Of 84 with outcomes, 48 (57%) improved. In 18 additional patients from the tertiary hospital system cohort (17 males, 1 female; 25-87 years, 9 HIV-positive), penicillin or doxycycline was used. Six patients fully recovered, four required further therapy, two partially recovered, and one did not improve.
CONCLUSION: Otosyphilis has an insidious presentation and can mimic other audiovestibular demanding early testing. Complex serologic interpretation may require referral to infectious disease specialists. Clear diagnostic protocols ensure timely treatment and improved outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-40682371
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40682371,
year = {2025},
author = {Pittman, CA and Liu, H and Kowkuntla, S and Choe, E and Copeland, MJ and Hoa, M and Briggs, S and Kim, HJ},
title = {Contemporary Clinical Management of Otosyphilis for Practicing Otolaryngologists-A Scoping Review.},
journal = {The Laryngoscope},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/lary.32421},
pmid = {40682371},
issn = {1531-4995},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic marked the resurgence of an old disease, syphilis. The CDC reported increased syphilis cases in the United States from 2016 to 2022, necessitating early recognition of syphilis to properly diagnose complications. We revisit otosyphilis management with the intent of developing an updated diagnostic testing algorithm and treatment plan for otolaryngologists to prevent worsening hearing loss.
DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases.
METHODS: A scoping review of diagnostic and treatment methods for otosyphilis was completed and reported in compliance with the guidelines outlined in the PRISMA-ScR extension for scoping reviews statement. A retrospective case series was also conducted by reviewing patient charts from a tertiary care hospital network. Patients with otosyphilis or neurosyphilis with otic symptoms, as diagnosed by an otolaryngology or infectious disease specialist, were included.
RESULTS: In 57 studies (222 patients), the mean reported symptom duration was 6.6 ± 5.0 weeks (n = 30) with nine outliers presenting after 6 months (65%) had hearing loss, 95 (43%) tinnitus, and 53 (24%) vertigo. Most (97%) received penicillin. Of 84 with outcomes, 48 (57%) improved. In 18 additional patients from the tertiary hospital system cohort (17 males, 1 female; 25-87 years, 9 HIV-positive), penicillin or doxycycline was used. Six patients fully recovered, four required further therapy, two partially recovered, and one did not improve.
CONCLUSION: Otosyphilis has an insidious presentation and can mimic other audiovestibular demanding early testing. Complex serologic interpretation may require referral to infectious disease specialists. Clear diagnostic protocols ensure timely treatment and improved outcomes.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-19
CmpDate: 2025-07-19
Investing in the Advanced Practice Nursing Workforce to Improve Health System Responses to Armed Conflict.
International nursing review, 72(3):e70074.
AIM: To pose an argument for health systems to improve responses to armed conflict by investing in developing the advanced practice nursing workforce.
BACKGROUND: Armed conflict catalyzes infectious disease, noncommunicable disease, and physical and psychological trauma. Health systems in countries at war face challenges in meeting the health service needs for affected populations while providing sufficient care for the rest of the public. Integrating advanced practice nurses into the workforce is one solution to address the demand for health services during war. Importantly, policies facilitating a quick, efficacious advanced practice nurse response during war must be in place before armed conflict arises.
SOURCES OF EVIDENCE: A critical narrative review of peer-reviewed articles was conducted. The review focused on the benefits of advanced practice nurses during crises and systemic policy setbacks preventing advanced practice nurse workforce development. A case study from the Israel-Hamas War is presented.
DISCUSSION: Holistic, patient-centered care positions advanced practice nurses to care for the physical and psychological needs of the population arising from war. Evidence from other public health crises, such as the COVID-19 and H1N1 pandemics, reinforces this notion. However, common policy setbacks, such as an ill-defined scope of practice and a lack of interprofessional awareness of the role, prevent advanced practice nurses from providing care when conflict arises. Israel's policy efforts before and during the Israel-Hamas War exemplify advanced practice nursing workforce policy development that facilitated an effective response to crisis.
CONCLUSION: Addressing expanded advanced practice nurse authorities before conflict starts will facilitate an improved health system response.
Research examining the effectiveness of advanced practice nursing care quality during armed conflict will facilitate national-level investment in advanced practice nursing workforce development.
Additional Links: PMID-40682315
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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hide bibtex listing
@article {pmid40682315,
year = {2025},
author = {Porat-Dahlerbruch, J and Boyd, J and Fighel, H},
title = {Investing in the Advanced Practice Nursing Workforce to Improve Health System Responses to Armed Conflict.},
journal = {International nursing review},
volume = {72},
number = {3},
pages = {e70074},
doi = {10.1111/inr.70074},
pmid = {40682315},
issn = {1466-7657},
mesh = {Humans ; *Advanced Practice Nursing/organization & administration ; *Armed Conflicts ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; Nurse's Role ; COVID-19/nursing ; Israel ; },
abstract = {AIM: To pose an argument for health systems to improve responses to armed conflict by investing in developing the advanced practice nursing workforce.
BACKGROUND: Armed conflict catalyzes infectious disease, noncommunicable disease, and physical and psychological trauma. Health systems in countries at war face challenges in meeting the health service needs for affected populations while providing sufficient care for the rest of the public. Integrating advanced practice nurses into the workforce is one solution to address the demand for health services during war. Importantly, policies facilitating a quick, efficacious advanced practice nurse response during war must be in place before armed conflict arises.
SOURCES OF EVIDENCE: A critical narrative review of peer-reviewed articles was conducted. The review focused on the benefits of advanced practice nurses during crises and systemic policy setbacks preventing advanced practice nurse workforce development. A case study from the Israel-Hamas War is presented.
DISCUSSION: Holistic, patient-centered care positions advanced practice nurses to care for the physical and psychological needs of the population arising from war. Evidence from other public health crises, such as the COVID-19 and H1N1 pandemics, reinforces this notion. However, common policy setbacks, such as an ill-defined scope of practice and a lack of interprofessional awareness of the role, prevent advanced practice nurses from providing care when conflict arises. Israel's policy efforts before and during the Israel-Hamas War exemplify advanced practice nursing workforce policy development that facilitated an effective response to crisis.
CONCLUSION: Addressing expanded advanced practice nurse authorities before conflict starts will facilitate an improved health system response.
Research examining the effectiveness of advanced practice nursing care quality during armed conflict will facilitate national-level investment in advanced practice nursing workforce development.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*Advanced Practice Nursing/organization & administration
*Armed Conflicts
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Nurse's Role
COVID-19/nursing
Israel
RevDate: 2025-07-18
CmpDate: 2025-07-19
A global living systematic review and meta-analysis hub of emerging vaccines in pregnancy and childhood.
Reproductive health, 22(1):129.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated vaccine development and generated a rapidly evolving body of evidence before and after the vaccine rollout. We developed a robust online platform to efficiently synthesize this emerging information for current and future challenges. Expanding upon our interactive living systematic review-initially focused on COVID-19- we now include chikungunya and Lassa fever (with protocols presented in this issue), Mpox, and Disease X (https://www.safeinpregnancy.org). We aim to continuously monitor and periodically update and disseminate high-quality data on vaccine safety, efficacy, effectiveness, and immunogenicity in pregnancy and childhood. This platform computes real-time meta-analyses and features a visualization tool to present findings in a clear and accessible manner, supporting decision-making, vaccine development pipelines, and implementation strategies worldwide. It is also designed to integrate data on a hub of emerging vaccines in pregnancy and childhood and reflects a collaborative effort among multiple organizations.
Additional Links: PMID-40682141
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40682141,
year = {2025},
author = {Ciapponi, A and Bardach, A and Berrueta, M and Ballivian, J and Brizuela, M and Caravario, J and Castellana, N and Comande, D and Couto, E and Mazzoni, A and Ortega, V and Parker, EPK and Sambade, JM and Florencia, S and Smutny, JP and Stegelmann, K and Xiong, X and Stergachis, A and Munoz, FM and Buekens, P},
title = {A global living systematic review and meta-analysis hub of emerging vaccines in pregnancy and childhood.},
journal = {Reproductive health},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {129},
pmid = {40682141},
issn = {1742-4755},
mesh = {Humans ; Pregnancy ; Female ; *COVID-19 Vaccines ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated vaccine development and generated a rapidly evolving body of evidence before and after the vaccine rollout. We developed a robust online platform to efficiently synthesize this emerging information for current and future challenges. Expanding upon our interactive living systematic review-initially focused on COVID-19- we now include chikungunya and Lassa fever (with protocols presented in this issue), Mpox, and Disease X (https://www.safeinpregnancy.org). We aim to continuously monitor and periodically update and disseminate high-quality data on vaccine safety, efficacy, effectiveness, and immunogenicity in pregnancy and childhood. This platform computes real-time meta-analyses and features a visualization tool to present findings in a clear and accessible manner, supporting decision-making, vaccine development pipelines, and implementation strategies worldwide. It is also designed to integrate data on a hub of emerging vaccines in pregnancy and childhood and reflects a collaborative effort among multiple organizations.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
Pregnancy
Female
*COVID-19 Vaccines
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Child
SARS-CoV-2
Meta-Analysis as Topic
Vaccine Development
RevDate: 2025-07-18
CmpDate: 2025-07-18
Cardiac adverse events associated with remdesivir in COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
BMJ open, 15(7):e089977 pii:bmjopen-2024-089977.
OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether remdesivir is associated with cardiac adverse events (CAEs), addressing concerns raised by basic experiments, clinical case reports and observational studies.
DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE and Embase, searched from January 2020 to December 2023.
STUDY SELECTION: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing remdesivir with placebo or standard care in patients with COVID-19, with a primary focus on cardiac safety.
We included RCTs that evaluated the safety of remdesivir in patients with COVID-19 . Eligible studies were those that compared remdesivir with placebo or standard care in adult patientsCOVID-19 . Inclusion criteria emphasised safety outcomes, particularly CAEs, as primary endpoints.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two reviewers independently extracted data. Reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-Harms guidelines. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A random-effects model was used for data synthesis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was applied to assess the certainty of evidence. The primary outcome was the incidence of any CAEs, defined as a composite of all reported cardiac-related harms. Secondary outcomes included specific CAEs such as arrhythmias, heart failure and myocardial disorders.
RESULTS: We identified 1698 studies, of which seven RCTs met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 4566 participants. The RoB was assessed across multiple domains, with four RCTs showing low risk and three showing moderate risk in specific areas. Pooled analysis revealed no significant association between remdesivir use and CAEs (RR=0.84, 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.04, p=0.118). Subgroup analyses showed consistent findings across different patient demographics and comorbidities. GRADE assessment indicated moderate certainty for overall CAEs, low certainty for arrhythmias and heart failure (due to imprecision and study-level bias), and very low certainty for myocardial disorders (due to small sample size and indirectness).
CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to preliminary concerns and case reports, our meta-analysis found no evidence of a statistically significant association between remdesivir and CAEs among patients with COVID-19 . These findings provide reassurance to clinicians regarding the safety profile of remdesivir in this patient population, supporting its use as an antiviral therapy in the treatment of COVID-19. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and to clarify whether remdesivir may have a neutral or potentially protective effect on cardiac outcomes.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022383647.
Additional Links: PMID-40681210
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40681210,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, C and Lapp, L and Amstutz, A and Briel, M and Shannon, CP and Zhao, H and Espin, E and Assadian, S and Toma, M and Tebbutt, SJ},
title = {Cardiac adverse events associated with remdesivir in COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {e089977},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2024-089977},
pmid = {40681210},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects ; *Antiviral Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 ; *Heart Diseases/chemically induced/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether remdesivir is associated with cardiac adverse events (CAEs), addressing concerns raised by basic experiments, clinical case reports and observational studies.
DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE and Embase, searched from January 2020 to December 2023.
STUDY SELECTION: Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing remdesivir with placebo or standard care in patients with COVID-19, with a primary focus on cardiac safety.
We included RCTs that evaluated the safety of remdesivir in patients with COVID-19 . Eligible studies were those that compared remdesivir with placebo or standard care in adult patientsCOVID-19 . Inclusion criteria emphasised safety outcomes, particularly CAEs, as primary endpoints.
DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two reviewers independently extracted data. Reporting followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-Harms guidelines. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. A random-effects model was used for data synthesis. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was applied to assess the certainty of evidence. The primary outcome was the incidence of any CAEs, defined as a composite of all reported cardiac-related harms. Secondary outcomes included specific CAEs such as arrhythmias, heart failure and myocardial disorders.
RESULTS: We identified 1698 studies, of which seven RCTs met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 4566 participants. The RoB was assessed across multiple domains, with four RCTs showing low risk and three showing moderate risk in specific areas. Pooled analysis revealed no significant association between remdesivir use and CAEs (RR=0.84, 95% CI: 0.68 to 1.04, p=0.118). Subgroup analyses showed consistent findings across different patient demographics and comorbidities. GRADE assessment indicated moderate certainty for overall CAEs, low certainty for arrhythmias and heart failure (due to imprecision and study-level bias), and very low certainty for myocardial disorders (due to small sample size and indirectness).
CONCLUSIONS: Contrary to preliminary concerns and case reports, our meta-analysis found no evidence of a statistically significant association between remdesivir and CAEs among patients with COVID-19 . These findings provide reassurance to clinicians regarding the safety profile of remdesivir in this patient population, supporting its use as an antiviral therapy in the treatment of COVID-19. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and to clarify whether remdesivir may have a neutral or potentially protective effect on cardiac outcomes.
PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42022383647.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects
*Antiviral Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
*Heart Diseases/chemically induced/epidemiology
RevDate: 2025-07-18
Viral mitochondriopathy in COVID-19.
Redox biology, 85:103766 pii:S2213-2317(25)00279-4 [Epub ahead of print].
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), disrupts cellular mitochondria, leading to widespread chronic inflammation and multi-organ dysfunction. Viral proteins cause mitochondrial bioenergetic collapse, disrupt mitochondrial dynamics, and impair ionic homeostasis, while avoiding antiviral defenses, including mitochondrial antiviral signaling. These changes drive both acute COVID-19 and its longer-term effects, known as "long COVID". This review examines new findings on the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 affects mitochondria and for the impact on chronic immunity, long-term health risks, and potential treatments.
Additional Links: PMID-40680383
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40680383,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, TH and Jeng, TH and Lee, MY and Wang, HC and Tsai, KF and Chou, CK},
title = {Viral mitochondriopathy in COVID-19.},
journal = {Redox biology},
volume = {85},
number = {},
pages = {103766},
doi = {10.1016/j.redox.2025.103766},
pmid = {40680383},
issn = {2213-2317},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), disrupts cellular mitochondria, leading to widespread chronic inflammation and multi-organ dysfunction. Viral proteins cause mitochondrial bioenergetic collapse, disrupt mitochondrial dynamics, and impair ionic homeostasis, while avoiding antiviral defenses, including mitochondrial antiviral signaling. These changes drive both acute COVID-19 and its longer-term effects, known as "long COVID". This review examines new findings on the mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 affects mitochondria and for the impact on chronic immunity, long-term health risks, and potential treatments.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
CmpDate: 2025-07-18
Symptom Trajectories and Clinical Subtypes in Post-COVID-19 Condition: Systematic Review and Clustering Analysis.
JMIR public health and surveillance, 11:e72221 pii:v11i1e72221.
BACKGROUND: Post-COVID-19 condition presents complex symptomatology involving multifaceted interactions, which has resulted in a current lack of comprehensive understanding of its disease trajectory. This knowledge gap significantly compromises the efficiency of symptom management and adversely affects patients' quality of life.
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to comprehensively characterize the temporal evolution of post-COVID-19 condition by identifying core symptom clusters and clinical phenotypes, thereby enhancing understanding of the disease trajectory.
METHODS: The PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched from December 1, 2019, to March 1, 2024. Observational studies related to the prevalence of symptoms in post-COVID-19 condition had been included. We conducted a meta-analysis to synthesize symptom prevalence across different follow-up intervals following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and used a network to explore interrelationships and co-occurrence patterns among symptoms, enabling the identification of core symptoms and changes over time. Clustering analysis was used to classify included studies into distinct clinical subtypes.
RESULTS: This study analyzed 155 sets of macrolevel data from 108 clinical studies, encompassing 63,771 patients. Fatigue was the most prevalent symptom across all 4 follow-up points (52%, 48%, 46%, and 54%). Dyspnea peaked at the third and sixth follow-ups (36% and 31%) and then declined steadily (28% and 22%). Subgroup analysis revealed that Africa reported the fewest symptoms overall, yet showed high early incidences of fatigue (68%, 95% CI 50%-85%) and dyspnea (56%, 95% CI 15%-98%). The Americas placed greater emphasis on symptom evolution within the first postinfection year, with notably higher prevalence of anxiety (60%, 95% CI 54%-66%) and depression (36%, 95% CI 16%-55%). Asia and Europe documented the most comprehensive symptom profiles, with Asia reporting lower early dyspnea rates (29%, 95% CI 18%-40%) and Europe exhibiting more complex multisystem involvement during long-term follow-up. Network analysis showed that core post-COVID-19 symptoms evolved from early respiratory-neurological manifestations to chronic multisystem symptoms dominated by dizziness. Clustering analysis further indicated a progressive convergence of 2 initially distinct post-COVID-19 subtypes, with the acute inflammatory type becoming less prominent and gradually transitioning into a more chronic, persistent pattern.
CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a comprehensive characterization of the dynamic evolution of post-COVID-19 condition symptoms and clinical subtypes, highlighting their multisystem involvement. The results reveal a progressive decline in respiratory symptoms over time, while neurological manifestations emerge as the most persistent and systemically impactful core symptoms. Our findings emphasize the need for region-specific surveillance and early warning systems informed by symptom progression patterns. By continuously monitoring the trajectories of symptom clusters, this approach offers valuable insights for identifying early warning signals and targeted intervention points in the management of postinfectious sequelae arising from future large-scale epidemics.
Additional Links: PMID-40680300
Publisher:
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40680300,
year = {2025},
author = {Hu, M and Song, T and Gong, Z and Che, Q and Guo, J and Chen, L and Zhang, H and Li, H and Liang, N and Zhao, G and Wang, Y and Shi, N and Liu, B},
title = {Symptom Trajectories and Clinical Subtypes in Post-COVID-19 Condition: Systematic Review and Clustering Analysis.},
journal = {JMIR public health and surveillance},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {e72221},
doi = {10.2196/72221},
pmid = {40680300},
issn = {2369-2960},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Cluster Analysis ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Fatigue/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-COVID-19 condition presents complex symptomatology involving multifaceted interactions, which has resulted in a current lack of comprehensive understanding of its disease trajectory. This knowledge gap significantly compromises the efficiency of symptom management and adversely affects patients' quality of life.
OBJECTIVE: This study aims to comprehensively characterize the temporal evolution of post-COVID-19 condition by identifying core symptom clusters and clinical phenotypes, thereby enhancing understanding of the disease trajectory.
METHODS: The PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched from December 1, 2019, to March 1, 2024. Observational studies related to the prevalence of symptoms in post-COVID-19 condition had been included. We conducted a meta-analysis to synthesize symptom prevalence across different follow-up intervals following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and used a network to explore interrelationships and co-occurrence patterns among symptoms, enabling the identification of core symptoms and changes over time. Clustering analysis was used to classify included studies into distinct clinical subtypes.
RESULTS: This study analyzed 155 sets of macrolevel data from 108 clinical studies, encompassing 63,771 patients. Fatigue was the most prevalent symptom across all 4 follow-up points (52%, 48%, 46%, and 54%). Dyspnea peaked at the third and sixth follow-ups (36% and 31%) and then declined steadily (28% and 22%). Subgroup analysis revealed that Africa reported the fewest symptoms overall, yet showed high early incidences of fatigue (68%, 95% CI 50%-85%) and dyspnea (56%, 95% CI 15%-98%). The Americas placed greater emphasis on symptom evolution within the first postinfection year, with notably higher prevalence of anxiety (60%, 95% CI 54%-66%) and depression (36%, 95% CI 16%-55%). Asia and Europe documented the most comprehensive symptom profiles, with Asia reporting lower early dyspnea rates (29%, 95% CI 18%-40%) and Europe exhibiting more complex multisystem involvement during long-term follow-up. Network analysis showed that core post-COVID-19 symptoms evolved from early respiratory-neurological manifestations to chronic multisystem symptoms dominated by dizziness. Clustering analysis further indicated a progressive convergence of 2 initially distinct post-COVID-19 subtypes, with the acute inflammatory type becoming less prominent and gradually transitioning into a more chronic, persistent pattern.
CONCLUSIONS: This study provides a comprehensive characterization of the dynamic evolution of post-COVID-19 condition symptoms and clinical subtypes, highlighting their multisystem involvement. The results reveal a progressive decline in respiratory symptoms over time, while neurological manifestations emerge as the most persistent and systemically impactful core symptoms. Our findings emphasize the need for region-specific surveillance and early warning systems informed by symptom progression patterns. By continuously monitoring the trajectories of symptom clusters, this approach offers valuable insights for identifying early warning signals and targeted intervention points in the management of postinfectious sequelae arising from future large-scale epidemics.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Cluster Analysis
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Fatigue/epidemiology
Prevalence
RevDate: 2025-07-18
CmpDate: 2025-07-18
Deciphering TLR and JAK/STAT pathways: genetic variants and targeted therapies in COVID-19.
Molecular biology reports, 52(1):733.
Genetic alterations affecting the immune-related pathways can significantly disrupt the innate immune system among patients with COVID-19, contributing to disease severity. Research investigations have shown that common or rare mutations in TLR genes, mainly TLR3 and TLR7, can impair the recognition of viral RNA, leading to an altered interferon response. Moreover, the NF-κB pathway, which represents a vital regulator of inflammatory cytokine production, may also be genetically disturbed, resulting in either insufficient inflammatory signaling or, adversely, excessive cytokine release in the most severe cases. Alterations in the JAK/STAT signaling pathway that mediates the downstream effects of type I interferons and other cytokines, can further compromise the antiviral defenses. The purpose of this review is to outline recent literature describing the current understanding of immunogenetic mechanisms in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with an emphasis on TLR and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. We aimed to investigate important variants within the genes related to these cascades and their involvement in COVID-19 severity. We also discussed emerging therapeutic strategies, especially the JAK/STAT modulators and TLR antagonists in severe COVID-19.Despite significant advances in targeting JAK/STAT pathways for the treatment of COVID-19, these approaches can show partial efficacy in monitoring critical inflammatory responses, due to the rapid viral evolution. Moreover, JAK inhibitors, being beneficial in decreasing hyperinflammation, may present potential side effects, particularly linked to immunosuppression. Hence, by integrating genetic profiling and modulation of immunity pathways, novel precision medicine approaches may greatly optimize treatment strategies and COVID-19 patient outcomes.
Additional Links: PMID-40679664
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40679664,
year = {2025},
author = {El Houdi, M and Skhoun, H and Guennoun, A and Dakka, N and Ameziane El Hassani, R and Ouzzif, Z and El Baghdadi, J},
title = {Deciphering TLR and JAK/STAT pathways: genetic variants and targeted therapies in COVID-19.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {733},
pmid = {40679664},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/genetics/immunology/virology ; *STAT Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics ; *Janus Kinases/metabolism/genetics ; Signal Transduction/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Toll-Like Receptors/genetics/metabolism ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Immunity, Innate ; Molecular Targeted Therapy ; Toll-Like Receptor 7/genetics ; Mutation ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Genetic alterations affecting the immune-related pathways can significantly disrupt the innate immune system among patients with COVID-19, contributing to disease severity. Research investigations have shown that common or rare mutations in TLR genes, mainly TLR3 and TLR7, can impair the recognition of viral RNA, leading to an altered interferon response. Moreover, the NF-κB pathway, which represents a vital regulator of inflammatory cytokine production, may also be genetically disturbed, resulting in either insufficient inflammatory signaling or, adversely, excessive cytokine release in the most severe cases. Alterations in the JAK/STAT signaling pathway that mediates the downstream effects of type I interferons and other cytokines, can further compromise the antiviral defenses. The purpose of this review is to outline recent literature describing the current understanding of immunogenetic mechanisms in response to SARS-CoV-2 infection, with an emphasis on TLR and JAK/STAT signaling pathways. We aimed to investigate important variants within the genes related to these cascades and their involvement in COVID-19 severity. We also discussed emerging therapeutic strategies, especially the JAK/STAT modulators and TLR antagonists in severe COVID-19.Despite significant advances in targeting JAK/STAT pathways for the treatment of COVID-19, these approaches can show partial efficacy in monitoring critical inflammatory responses, due to the rapid viral evolution. Moreover, JAK inhibitors, being beneficial in decreasing hyperinflammation, may present potential side effects, particularly linked to immunosuppression. Hence, by integrating genetic profiling and modulation of immunity pathways, novel precision medicine approaches may greatly optimize treatment strategies and COVID-19 patient outcomes.},
}
MeSH Terms:
show MeSH Terms
hide MeSH Terms
Humans
*COVID-19/genetics/immunology/virology
*STAT Transcription Factors/metabolism/genetics
*Janus Kinases/metabolism/genetics
Signal Transduction/genetics
SARS-CoV-2
*Toll-Like Receptors/genetics/metabolism
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Immunity, Innate
Molecular Targeted Therapy
Toll-Like Receptor 7/genetics
Mutation
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
RevDate: 2025-07-18
CmpDate: 2025-07-18
Biomedical Models: Use of Zebrafish as a Multi-Utility In Vivo Tool Box.
WIREs mechanisms of disease, 17(4):e70002.
Molecular research has gradually revealed the biological significance of genetically encoded information and how this information is transmitted and utilized in a cell. The scientific advances of the last few decades have brought about paradigm shifts in the strategies traditionally used to decipher biological information. From unidirectional approaches, we now have multidirectional model-system-based integrated OMICs that aim to describe the pathophysiology of diseases through a combination of genetic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data. Compared to other vertebrate models, zebrafish have a wealth of advantages that make them a powerful tool with a wide range of applications in biomedical research. The high degree of genetic conservation with humans, coupled with the availability of various gene manipulation techniques, has made zebrafish an immensely popular multi-utility genetic toolbox. This review describes the advances in the field of zebrafish-based biomedical research with a focus on its applications in disease modeling, functional omics, toxicology, and pharmacology. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Congenital Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
Additional Links: PMID-40679324
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PubMed:
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@article {pmid40679324,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohanty, B and Mohan, M and Nanjappa, DP and Shenoy, RD and Hosmane, GB and Chakraborty, G and Chakraborty, A},
title = {Biomedical Models: Use of Zebrafish as a Multi-Utility In Vivo Tool Box.},
journal = {WIREs mechanisms of disease},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {e70002},
doi = {10.1002/wsbm.70002},
pmid = {40679324},
issn = {2692-9368},
support = {VIR/COVID-19/23/2021/ECD-I//ICMR, Government of India/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Zebrafish/genetics ; *Disease Models, Animal ; Humans ; *Biomedical Research/methods ; Genomics/methods ; Proteomics/methods ; Metabolomics ; },
abstract = {Molecular research has gradually revealed the biological significance of genetically encoded information and how this information is transmitted and utilized in a cell. The scientific advances of the last few decades have brought about paradigm shifts in the strategies traditionally used to decipher biological information. From unidirectional approaches, we now have multidirectional model-system-based integrated OMICs that aim to describe the pathophysiology of diseases through a combination of genetic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data. Compared to other vertebrate models, zebrafish have a wealth of advantages that make them a powerful tool with a wide range of applications in biomedical research. The high degree of genetic conservation with humans, coupled with the availability of various gene manipulation techniques, has made zebrafish an immensely popular multi-utility genetic toolbox. This review describes the advances in the field of zebrafish-based biomedical research with a focus on its applications in disease modeling, functional omics, toxicology, and pharmacology. This article is categorized under: Cancer > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Infectious Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology Congenital Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.},
}
MeSH Terms:
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Animals
*Zebrafish/genetics
*Disease Models, Animal
Humans
*Biomedical Research/methods
Genomics/methods
Proteomics/methods
Metabolomics
RevDate: 2025-07-18
Decades of discovery: unveiling emerging trends, pivotal research areas, and landmark publications in national tobacco research in India.
Frontiers in research metrics and analytics, 10:1496571.
INTRODUCTION: Tobacco use remains a major public health concern in India, contributing significantly to the burden of non-communicable diseases and premature mortality. Over the past two decades, national tobacco research has evolved in response to shifting regulatory frameworks, scientific developments, and increasing awareness of tobacco's health, social, and environmental implications. The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), adopted in 2003, has played a catalytic role in aligning research efforts with global priorities. However, there is a need to map the growth and direction of this research to identify strengths, gaps, and emerging trends within the Indian context.
METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted to evaluate tobacco-related research output affiliated with Indian institutions between 2003 and 2024. Data were retrieved from the SCOPUS database, limited to peer-reviewed journal articles and reviews published in English. Analytical tools included SCOPUS Analytics, Microsoft Excel, the Biblioshiny package in R, and VOS viewer software. These tools were used to extract and visualize trends in publication volume, subject categories, key authors, institutional collaborations, citation metrics, and thematic hotspots. Inclusion criteria were confined to Indian-affiliated institutions contributing to national and global discourse on tobacco research.
RESULTS: Tobacco research in India showed a consistent upward trend post-2003, with notable surges corresponding to key public health developments. The majority of publications were concentrated in the domain of medicine, particularly focusing on cancer prevention and tobacco control interventions. Leading contributors included institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), with significant collaborations observed with United States-based researchers. Despite increased output, research on the social and environmental consequences of tobacco use remained limited. Additionally, international collaboration was relatively low, and funding was primarily from Indian agencies, with minimal support from global or low-income country partnerships. Notably, recent studies employed advanced methodologies, such as machine learning and nanotechnology, and examined newer themes like the intersection of tobacco use and COVID-19-related respiratory risks.
DISCUSSION: The findings indicate a maturing research ecosystem around tobacco in India, strongly anchored in biomedical science and policy interventions. However, the underrepresentation of interdisciplinary studies exploring socio-cultural and ecological dimensions suggests a critical gap. Moreover, the low levels of international collaboration and inadequate funding for low-income contexts highlight systemic limitations that could hinder progress. To advance tobacco research nationally and globally, enhanced collaboration across disciplines and geographies is essential. Incorporating emerging technologies and focusing on equity-driven research agendas will be pivotal in addressing the multifaceted impact of tobacco use.
Additional Links: PMID-40678731
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40678731,
year = {2025},
author = {Singh, A and Kashyap, A and Varshney, S and Bhattacharya, S},
title = {Decades of discovery: unveiling emerging trends, pivotal research areas, and landmark publications in national tobacco research in India.},
journal = {Frontiers in research metrics and analytics},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {1496571},
pmid = {40678731},
issn = {2504-0537},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Tobacco use remains a major public health concern in India, contributing significantly to the burden of non-communicable diseases and premature mortality. Over the past two decades, national tobacco research has evolved in response to shifting regulatory frameworks, scientific developments, and increasing awareness of tobacco's health, social, and environmental implications. The World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), adopted in 2003, has played a catalytic role in aligning research efforts with global priorities. However, there is a need to map the growth and direction of this research to identify strengths, gaps, and emerging trends within the Indian context.
METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted to evaluate tobacco-related research output affiliated with Indian institutions between 2003 and 2024. Data were retrieved from the SCOPUS database, limited to peer-reviewed journal articles and reviews published in English. Analytical tools included SCOPUS Analytics, Microsoft Excel, the Biblioshiny package in R, and VOS viewer software. These tools were used to extract and visualize trends in publication volume, subject categories, key authors, institutional collaborations, citation metrics, and thematic hotspots. Inclusion criteria were confined to Indian-affiliated institutions contributing to national and global discourse on tobacco research.
RESULTS: Tobacco research in India showed a consistent upward trend post-2003, with notable surges corresponding to key public health developments. The majority of publications were concentrated in the domain of medicine, particularly focusing on cancer prevention and tobacco control interventions. Leading contributors included institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), with significant collaborations observed with United States-based researchers. Despite increased output, research on the social and environmental consequences of tobacco use remained limited. Additionally, international collaboration was relatively low, and funding was primarily from Indian agencies, with minimal support from global or low-income country partnerships. Notably, recent studies employed advanced methodologies, such as machine learning and nanotechnology, and examined newer themes like the intersection of tobacco use and COVID-19-related respiratory risks.
DISCUSSION: The findings indicate a maturing research ecosystem around tobacco in India, strongly anchored in biomedical science and policy interventions. However, the underrepresentation of interdisciplinary studies exploring socio-cultural and ecological dimensions suggests a critical gap. Moreover, the low levels of international collaboration and inadequate funding for low-income contexts highlight systemic limitations that could hinder progress. To advance tobacco research nationally and globally, enhanced collaboration across disciplines and geographies is essential. Incorporating emerging technologies and focusing on equity-driven research agendas will be pivotal in addressing the multifaceted impact of tobacco use.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
Food and medicine homology: a potential nutritional intervention strategy for post-acute COVID-19 syndrome.
Frontiers in pharmacology, 16:1588037.
After recovering from severe acute respiratory syndrome of coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) acute infection, some patients with corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still are affected by post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has played an important role in the recovery period of COVID-19. As a unique type of Chinese botanical drugs, foods with property of food and medicine homology (FMH) has the dual characteristics of drug and food, which has advantages over usual drugs in safety and daily application. This review analyzed a total of 290 peer-reviewed publications on the progress of dozens of formulas and single botanical drugs, which were systematically collected from the electronic scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), as well as other literature sources, such as classic Chinese medicine books. The symptoms of PACS and the advancements in the application of FMH foods in PACS intervention are summarized, and the challenges in the regulatory characteristics and food safety are further discussed. It is expected that the application of FMH foods would bring new opportunity for the treatment and daily intervention of PACS, and this review provides a foundation for the development of PACS intervention foods.
Additional Links: PMID-40678729
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40678729,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Z and Liu, Y and Ding, W and Liu, Y and Li, W and Guan, S and Liu, X and Wang, G and Liu, Q and Jiang, C and Peng, X and Li, H and Li, Z and Li, J},
title = {Food and medicine homology: a potential nutritional intervention strategy for post-acute COVID-19 syndrome.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1588037},
pmid = {40678729},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {After recovering from severe acute respiratory syndrome of coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) acute infection, some patients with corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) still are affected by post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has played an important role in the recovery period of COVID-19. As a unique type of Chinese botanical drugs, foods with property of food and medicine homology (FMH) has the dual characteristics of drug and food, which has advantages over usual drugs in safety and daily application. This review analyzed a total of 290 peer-reviewed publications on the progress of dozens of formulas and single botanical drugs, which were systematically collected from the electronic scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), as well as other literature sources, such as classic Chinese medicine books. The symptoms of PACS and the advancements in the application of FMH foods in PACS intervention are summarized, and the challenges in the regulatory characteristics and food safety are further discussed. It is expected that the application of FMH foods would bring new opportunity for the treatment and daily intervention of PACS, and this review provides a foundation for the development of PACS intervention foods.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
PEARLES challenges and solutions to the implementation of clinical research responses to epidemics and pandemics: a scoping review.
EClinicalMedicine, 85:103294.
Conducting clinical research in response to infectious disease outbreaks presents unique challenges. In a previous review, we identified a range of political, economic, administrative, regulatory, logistical, ethical and social (PEARLES) challenges and proposed solutions to effective implementation of outbreak research responses. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted an update to explore if solutions recommended had been implemented, or new challenges identified. We searched seven databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Global Health, Embase, and PsycINFO, Scopus, Epistemonikos, Google Scholar) and grey literature from 01/06/2018 to 28/09/2023 for studies presenting PEARLES challenges/solutions to epi/pandemic research responses. Of 12,652 records, 191 were included. Our review identified many persisting challenges, particularly the lack of international research co-ordination, pre-planned research strategies, and limited research infrastructure in resource deprived settings. While some solutions were implemented, many remain recommendations e.g. pre-prepared regulatory guidelines and protocols, research infrastructure investment and international research coordination. Our data shows an urgent need to address challenges identified, implement and evaluate recommended solutions, to strengthen global health security to new and (re-) emerging epidemics and pandemics.
Additional Links: PMID-40678698
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40678698,
year = {2025},
author = {Crealock-Ashurst, B and Levanita, S and Frischer, SR and Adhikari, S and Mwebia, W and Kadri-Alabi, Z and Davidson, L and Jeena, L and Evans, M and Morley, G and Harriss, E and Carson, G and Norton, A and Sigfrid, L},
title = {PEARLES challenges and solutions to the implementation of clinical research responses to epidemics and pandemics: a scoping review.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {85},
number = {},
pages = {103294},
pmid = {40678698},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {Conducting clinical research in response to infectious disease outbreaks presents unique challenges. In a previous review, we identified a range of political, economic, administrative, regulatory, logistical, ethical and social (PEARLES) challenges and proposed solutions to effective implementation of outbreak research responses. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, we conducted an update to explore if solutions recommended had been implemented, or new challenges identified. We searched seven databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Global Health, Embase, and PsycINFO, Scopus, Epistemonikos, Google Scholar) and grey literature from 01/06/2018 to 28/09/2023 for studies presenting PEARLES challenges/solutions to epi/pandemic research responses. Of 12,652 records, 191 were included. Our review identified many persisting challenges, particularly the lack of international research co-ordination, pre-planned research strategies, and limited research infrastructure in resource deprived settings. While some solutions were implemented, many remain recommendations e.g. pre-prepared regulatory guidelines and protocols, research infrastructure investment and international research coordination. Our data shows an urgent need to address challenges identified, implement and evaluate recommended solutions, to strengthen global health security to new and (re-) emerging epidemics and pandemics.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
A Critical Review of the CRISPR-Cas Technology in the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Variants.
The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale, 2025:9107724.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still going on, and as the epidemic situation continues, the genome of SARS-CoV-2 is also mutating and evolving, resulting in more and more SARS-CoV-2 mutant strains, which have brought serious pressure on the prevention and control of COVID-19. Given that the COVID-19 is still spreading, it is extremely important to rapidly identify SARS-CoV-2 variants by nucleic acid assays. Thus, developing highly sensitive and specific assays that are suitable for field testing, high-throughput, and automation, as well as other diagnostic applications for SARS-CoV-2 variants, is urgently needed. This paper reviews the research progress of novel CRISPR-based diagnostic methods for SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Additional Links: PMID-40678258
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Citation:
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@article {pmid40678258,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, J and Li, J and Zhou, J and Zhong, J and Xu, Y and Mao, X and Xu, M and Luo, S and Yang, Y and Hu, R and Liu, DA and Chen, S and Qiu, Y and Chen, K and Yuan, J and Zhang, X and Li, X},
title = {A Critical Review of the CRISPR-Cas Technology in the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Variants.},
journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {9107724},
pmid = {40678258},
issn = {1712-9532},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still going on, and as the epidemic situation continues, the genome of SARS-CoV-2 is also mutating and evolving, resulting in more and more SARS-CoV-2 mutant strains, which have brought serious pressure on the prevention and control of COVID-19. Given that the COVID-19 is still spreading, it is extremely important to rapidly identify SARS-CoV-2 variants by nucleic acid assays. Thus, developing highly sensitive and specific assays that are suitable for field testing, high-throughput, and automation, as well as other diagnostic applications for SARS-CoV-2 variants, is urgently needed. This paper reviews the research progress of novel CRISPR-based diagnostic methods for SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
Telemedicine Approaches for Patients with Cirrhosis, Including Vulnerable Populations: A Narrative Review.
Canadian liver journal, 8(2):329-343.
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine in health care. However, telemedicine in cirrhosis care remains underexplored. In particular, patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) may be overrepresented among vulnerable populations, but have limited access to telemedicine.
METHOD: We performed a literature review on telemedicine approaches for patients with cirrhosis as well as patients with AUD and HCV with or without cirrhosis. Peer-reviewed studies involving direct patient-physician interactions were searched on PubMed and Google Scholar. Keywords used included cirrhosis, AUD, HCV, and telemedicine. Abstracts were screened. Full texts were reviewed.
RESULTS: Among patients with cirrhosis, videoconferencing at satellite sites shortened the time from liver transplant referral to evaluation and listing. Telephone calls were less effective, especially for those with decompensated cirrhosis. Among patients with AUD, videoconferencing at satellite sites was effective, with patients being five times more likely to be prescribed medications. Treatment programs involving videoconferencing and telephone calls demonstrated retention rates above 50%. Among patients with HCV, videoconferencing was effective, with high (>90%) sustained virological response rates. Across all approaches, concerns raised included audiovisual quality, patient privacy, and licensing restrictions.
CONCLUSION: Videoconferencing at satellite sites is most promising if audiovisual quality and other barriers are optimized. Telemedicine may not be appropriate for management of decompensated cirrhosis.
Additional Links: PMID-40677981
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40677981,
year = {2025},
author = {Yau, MTK and Tsien, C},
title = {Telemedicine Approaches for Patients with Cirrhosis, Including Vulnerable Populations: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Canadian liver journal},
volume = {8},
number = {2},
pages = {329-343},
pmid = {40677981},
issn = {2561-4444},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine in health care. However, telemedicine in cirrhosis care remains underexplored. In particular, patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) may be overrepresented among vulnerable populations, but have limited access to telemedicine.
METHOD: We performed a literature review on telemedicine approaches for patients with cirrhosis as well as patients with AUD and HCV with or without cirrhosis. Peer-reviewed studies involving direct patient-physician interactions were searched on PubMed and Google Scholar. Keywords used included cirrhosis, AUD, HCV, and telemedicine. Abstracts were screened. Full texts were reviewed.
RESULTS: Among patients with cirrhosis, videoconferencing at satellite sites shortened the time from liver transplant referral to evaluation and listing. Telephone calls were less effective, especially for those with decompensated cirrhosis. Among patients with AUD, videoconferencing at satellite sites was effective, with patients being five times more likely to be prescribed medications. Treatment programs involving videoconferencing and telephone calls demonstrated retention rates above 50%. Among patients with HCV, videoconferencing was effective, with high (>90%) sustained virological response rates. Across all approaches, concerns raised included audiovisual quality, patient privacy, and licensing restrictions.
CONCLUSION: Videoconferencing at satellite sites is most promising if audiovisual quality and other barriers are optimized. Telemedicine may not be appropriate for management of decompensated cirrhosis.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
The Experience of SARS-CoV-2 in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Is There Any Correlation between Them?.
Maedica, 20(1):112-116.
Introduction: Recent studies suggest that the international prostate symptom score (IPSS), especially in older men, may result from COVID-19, and that LUTS may be high in the early stages of the illness. The primary goal of the present review is to ascertain the true impact of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on the development of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by analyzing the body of available literature. Materials and methods: By May 2023, a comprehensive and categorized search of the literature was conducted utilizing the following global databases: the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase and Scopus. To assess their eligibility, all English-language records were included, including peer-reviewed online publications and published works. Additional sources were identified using the retrieved material's citations. There were no limitations on the sample size. Results: SARS-CoV-2 penetrates cells by attaching itself to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor of the prostate. This combination may cause direct harm to the prostate and accelerate the development of BPH. The pathophysiology of BPH involves androgen receptors, and the infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 may be androgen-mediated. This may cause the symptoms of BPH to worsen and progress. Pro-inflammatory pathways can be triggered and cytokine release increased by SARS-CoV-2 infection. This inflammation can exacerbate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and cause the prostate gland to become inflamed. Benign prostatic hyperplasia may occur because of metabolic disturbances brought on by the coronavirus disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), such as newly diagnosed diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Conclusion: To illustrate the impact of COVID-19 on the onset of these symptoms and quantify the changes in them, it is desirable to identify the factors that contribute to the worsening of BPH-related LUTS after COVID-19 recovery.
Additional Links: PMID-40677668
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40677668,
year = {2025},
author = {Balacescu, S and Geavlete, B and Ungureanu, C and Ene, C and Ene, CD and Bulai, C and Mares, C and Punga, A and Militaru, A and Geavlete, P},
title = {The Experience of SARS-CoV-2 in Patients with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Is There Any Correlation between Them?.},
journal = {Maedica},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {112-116},
pmid = {40677668},
issn = {1841-9038},
abstract = {Introduction: Recent studies suggest that the international prostate symptom score (IPSS), especially in older men, may result from COVID-19, and that LUTS may be high in the early stages of the illness. The primary goal of the present review is to ascertain the true impact of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on the development of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by analyzing the body of available literature. Materials and methods: By May 2023, a comprehensive and categorized search of the literature was conducted utilizing the following global databases: the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase and Scopus. To assess their eligibility, all English-language records were included, including peer-reviewed online publications and published works. Additional sources were identified using the retrieved material's citations. There were no limitations on the sample size. Results: SARS-CoV-2 penetrates cells by attaching itself to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor of the prostate. This combination may cause direct harm to the prostate and accelerate the development of BPH. The pathophysiology of BPH involves androgen receptors, and the infection caused by SARS-CoV-2 may be androgen-mediated. This may cause the symptoms of BPH to worsen and progress. Pro-inflammatory pathways can be triggered and cytokine release increased by SARS-CoV-2 infection. This inflammation can exacerbate lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and cause the prostate gland to become inflamed. Benign prostatic hyperplasia may occur because of metabolic disturbances brought on by the coronavirus disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), such as newly diagnosed diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Conclusion: To illustrate the impact of COVID-19 on the onset of these symptoms and quantify the changes in them, it is desirable to identify the factors that contribute to the worsening of BPH-related LUTS after COVID-19 recovery.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-18
Liver injury in post-acute COVID-19 syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of early observational studies.
Canadian liver journal, 7(4):470-489.
BACKGROUND: Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS; long COVID) is characterized by persistent or delayed symptoms at least 4 weeks from acute COVID-19 infection. Given the well-documented incidence of liver injury in acute COVID-19, this systematic review aims to assess the odds of liver injury in earlier experiencers of PACS.
METHODS: Observational studies published prior to March 2022 were screened for data describing liver injury (defined per primary study) in patients with PACS.
RESULTS: A total of 2,117 abstracts and 35 full texts were screened, of which 26 met the inclusion criteria. The mean time since acute COVID infection across all studies was 195.5 days. Seven studies included COVID-negative control groups. Twenty-three studies measured lab findings, and nine studies measured imaging or elastography. Five studies were eligible for meta-analysis of odds ratios, which did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in odds for liver injury in patients with PACS compared with COVID-negative patients (OR 2.22 [95% CI 0.51-9.61; p = 0.28]). Newcastle-Ottawa Scale assessments for all studies found 24 of 26 studies with high to very high risk of bias. ROBINS-E assessments for studies included in the meta-analysis found five of five studies with high to very high risk of bias.
CONCLUSIONS: Overall, our findings demonstrate no statistical difference in odds ratios of liver injury in patients with PACS compared with COVID-negative controls. As such, routine assessment and monitoring of liver injury in patients with PACS may not be required; however, higher quality data with lower risk of bias are required to make recommendations of higher certainty.
Additional Links: PMID-40677535
PubMed:
Citation:
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@article {pmid40677535,
year = {2024},
author = {Mundra, P and Kailani, Z and Yaghoobi, M and Matthews, P and Tobis, M and Sadeghian, S and Albashir, S},
title = {Liver injury in post-acute COVID-19 syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of early observational studies.},
journal = {Canadian liver journal},
volume = {7},
number = {4},
pages = {470-489},
pmid = {40677535},
issn = {2561-4444},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS; long COVID) is characterized by persistent or delayed symptoms at least 4 weeks from acute COVID-19 infection. Given the well-documented incidence of liver injury in acute COVID-19, this systematic review aims to assess the odds of liver injury in earlier experiencers of PACS.
METHODS: Observational studies published prior to March 2022 were screened for data describing liver injury (defined per primary study) in patients with PACS.
RESULTS: A total of 2,117 abstracts and 35 full texts were screened, of which 26 met the inclusion criteria. The mean time since acute COVID infection across all studies was 195.5 days. Seven studies included COVID-negative control groups. Twenty-three studies measured lab findings, and nine studies measured imaging or elastography. Five studies were eligible for meta-analysis of odds ratios, which did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference in odds for liver injury in patients with PACS compared with COVID-negative patients (OR 2.22 [95% CI 0.51-9.61; p = 0.28]). Newcastle-Ottawa Scale assessments for all studies found 24 of 26 studies with high to very high risk of bias. ROBINS-E assessments for studies included in the meta-analysis found five of five studies with high to very high risk of bias.
CONCLUSIONS: Overall, our findings demonstrate no statistical difference in odds ratios of liver injury in patients with PACS compared with COVID-negative controls. As such, routine assessment and monitoring of liver injury in patients with PACS may not be required; however, higher quality data with lower risk of bias are required to make recommendations of higher certainty.},
}
RevDate: 2025-07-17
Surgical health policy 2025-35: strengthening essential services for tomorrow's needs.
Lancet (London, England) pii:S0140-6736(25)00985-7 [Epub ahead of print].
Progress towards The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery's 2030 targets has been too slow and too patchy, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries. The unmet need for surgery has continued to grow, reaching at least 160 million operations per year. Ensuring high-quality surgical care remains a crucial global challenge, with 3·5 million adults dying after surgery each year. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of surgical services long undermined by chronic underfunding, workforce shortages, and under-resourced infrastructure. However, The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery inspired a new generation of surgeons to engage with policy, and several countries have developed national surgical plans, although most remain unfunded. Advancements in surgical data science have allowed health systems to identify priorities for improvement. Preserving this infrastructure is important, especially during periods of uncertain global health funding. The next decade requires urgent change to prevent economic instability and armed conflict from forcing surgery down the global health agenda. Reframing surgery as an essential service that saves lives, strengthens health systems, and fosters economic productivity could unlock much needed investment. Sustained progress requires integration of funding both within hospital infrastructure and across care pathways. Such holistic approaches would reinforce entire hospital systems, which are essential to national security and wellbeing.
Additional Links: PMID-40675172
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@article {pmid40675172,
year = {2025},
author = {Nepogodiev, D and Picciochi, M and Ademuyiwa, A and Adisa, A and Agbeko, AE and Aguilera, ML and Agyei, F and Alexander, P and Henry, J and Anyomih, TTK and Aregawi, AB and Atun, R and Biccard, B and Chalwe, M and Chu, K and Coomarasamy, A and Crawford, R and Darzi, A and Davies, J and Gathuya, Z and George, C and Ghaffar, A and Ghosh, D and Glasbey, JC and Haque, PD and Harrison, EM and Hesse, A and Allen Ingabire, JC and Kamarajah, SK and Karekezi, C and Kruger, D and Lapitan, MC and Latif, A and Lawani, I and Ledda, V and Li, E and Linder, C and Makasa, E and Martin, J and Maswime, S and Mathai, S and Meara, JG and Mudede-Moffat, F and Ntirenganya, F and Park, KB and Phelan, LN and Pramesh, CS and Ramos-De la Medina, A and Raykar, N and Rivello, R and Roslani, AC and Roy, N and Samad, L and Shrime, M and Sobhy, S and Sullivan, R and Tabiri, S and Tangi, V and Tissingh, E and Weiser, TG and Williams, O and Bhangu, A},
title = {Surgical health policy 2025-35: strengthening essential services for tomorrow's needs.},
journal = {Lancet (London, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00985-7},
pmid = {40675172},
issn = {1474-547X},
abstract = {Progress towards The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery's 2030 targets has been too slow and too patchy, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries. The unmet need for surgery has continued to grow, reaching at least 160 million operations per year. Ensuring high-quality surgical care remains a crucial global challenge, with 3·5 million adults dying after surgery each year. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of surgical services long undermined by chronic underfunding, workforce shortages, and under-resourced infrastructure. However, The Lancet Commission on Global Surgery inspired a new generation of surgeons to engage with policy, and several countries have developed national surgical plans, although most remain unfunded. Advancements in surgical data science have allowed health systems to identify priorities for improvement. Preserving this infrastructure is important, especially during periods of uncertain global health funding. The next decade requires urgent change to prevent economic instability and armed conflict from forcing surgery down the global health agenda. Reframing surgery as an essential service that saves lives, strengthens health systems, and fosters economic productivity could unlock much needed investment. Sustained progress requires integration of funding both within hospital infrastructure and across care pathways. Such holistic approaches would reinforce entire hospital systems, which are essential to national security and wellbeing.},
}
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ESP Quick Facts
ESP Origins
In the early 1990's, Robert Robbins was a faculty member at Johns Hopkins, where he directed the informatics core of GDB — the human gene-mapping database of the international human genome project. To share papers with colleagues around the world, he set up a small paper-sharing section on his personal web page. This small project evolved into The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.
ESP Support
In 1995, Robbins became the VP/IT of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA. Soon after arriving in Seattle, Robbins secured funding, through the ELSI component of the US Human Genome Project, to create the original ESP.ORG web site, with the formal goal of providing free, world-wide access to the literature of classical genetics.
ESP Rationale
Although the methods of molecular biology can seem almost magical to the uninitiated, the original techniques of classical genetics are readily appreciated by one and all: cross individuals that differ in some inherited trait, collect all of the progeny, score their attributes, and propose mechanisms to explain the patterns of inheritance observed.
ESP Goal
In reading the early works of classical genetics, one is drawn, almost inexorably, into ever more complex models, until molecular explanations begin to seem both necessary and natural. At that point, the tools for understanding genome research are at hand. Assisting readers reach this point was the original goal of The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.
ESP Usage
Usage of the site grew rapidly and has remained high. Faculty began to use the site for their assigned readings. Other on-line publishers, ranging from The New York Times to Nature referenced ESP materials in their own publications. Nobel laureates (e.g., Joshua Lederberg) regularly used the site and even wrote to suggest changes and improvements.
ESP Content
When the site began, no journals were making their early content available in digital format. As a result, ESP was obliged to digitize classic literature before it could be made available. For many important papers — such as Mendel's original paper or the first genetic map — ESP had to produce entirely new typeset versions of the works, if they were to be available in a high-quality format.
ESP Help
Early support from the DOE component of the Human Genome Project was critically important for getting the ESP project on a firm foundation. Since that funding ended (nearly 20 years ago), the project has been operated as a purely volunteer effort. Anyone wishing to assist in these efforts should send an email to Robbins.
ESP Plans
With the development of methods for adding typeset side notes to PDF files, the ESP project now plans to add annotated versions of some classical papers to its holdings. We also plan to add new reference and pedagogical material. We have already started providing regularly updated, comprehensive bibliographies to the ESP.ORG site.
ESP Picks from Around the Web (updated 28 JUL 2024 )
Old Science
Weird Science
Treating Disease with Fecal Transplantation
Fossils of miniature humans (hobbits) discovered in Indonesia
Paleontology
Dinosaur tail, complete with feathers, found preserved in amber.
Astronomy
Mysterious fast radio burst (FRB) detected in the distant universe.
Big Data & Informatics
Big Data: Buzzword or Big Deal?
Hacking the genome: Identifying anonymized human subjects using publicly available data.