@article {pmid39997023,
year = {2025},
author = {Cano, M and Del Valle, M},
title = {The Personal Glucose Meter as the Measurement Principle in Point-of-Care Applications.},
journal = {Biosensors},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {39997023},
issn = {2079-6374},
support = {PID2022-136709OB-C21//Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation/ ; 2021 SGR 00124//Generalitat of Catalunya/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Biosensing Techniques ; *Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring ; *Point-of-Care Systems ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Blood Glucose/analysis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {A personal glucose meter (PGM) is a medical device that measures blood glucose levels and can be found worldwide. Owing to their sensitivity, simplicity, portability, and low cost, PGMs stand as one of the most frequently utilized analytical methods. This work reviews the different applied methodologies for detecting analytes other than glucose employing a PGM and how it can be incorporated for point-of-care diagnosis needs. To visualize the variants, first, a classification is made according to the biorecognition elements used (aptamers, antibodies, etc.), and where the determination of different analytes is done through the glucose signal using different glucose-generating enzymes such as invertase or glucosidase. Transduction can also be based on the use of nanocarriers that generally encapsulate glucose, although it is also possible to find a combination of the two aforementioned strategies. The PGM can also be used for the direct detection of interfering substances of the biosensor, such as NADH or paracetamol. Lastly, we discuss how a PGM might have been implemented to detect COVID-19 and how it could be used on a massive scale for the point-of-care diagnosis of a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Biosensing Techniques
*Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring
*Point-of-Care Systems
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*Blood Glucose/analysis
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid39996953,
year = {2025},
author = {Koren, L and Koren, A and Likić, R and Katanec, T},
title = {Revolutionizing Dentistry: Preclinical Insights and Future Applications of mRNA Vaccines in Dentistry-A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Dentistry journal},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {39996953},
issn = {2304-6767},
abstract = {Background: Recent advances in mRNA vaccine technology, accelerated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, have generated significant interest in their applications beyond infectious diseases. Dentistry has emerged as a promising field for exploring the potential of mRNA-based therapies in preventing and treating oral diseases. Objectives: This narrative review aims to evaluate the current status of mRNA vaccine development and its preclinical applications in oral health, focusing on periodontal disease, dental caries, regenerative medicine, implantology, and oral cancer. Methods: The review synthesizes findings from preclinical studies, including research conducted in animal models and in vitro, to assess the potential of mRNA-based therapies to modulate immune responses and promote tissue regeneration in the oral cavity. Clinical trials were only mentioned in the context of broader areas of mRNA vaccine implementation such as oncology and immunotherapy. Results: The preclinical studies highlight the capacity of mRNA vaccines to enhance the body's immune response and facilitate tissue repair processes. Despite these promising results, challenges persist in delivering mRNA vaccines effectively within the complex oral environment. These challenges include vaccine stability, delivery mechanisms, and the modulation of immune responses. Conclusions: While mRNA vaccines offer significant promise for revolutionizing oral health care, they face notable limitations concerning safety, efficacy, and clinical feasibility. Overcoming these obstacles through further research is essential to unlock their full translational potential and ensure their safe and effective integration into dental practice.},
}

@article {pmid39996621,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, R and Zhang, J and Ren, L},
title = {A Meta-Analysis of the Impact of Using Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEIs) or Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) on Mortality, Severity, and Healthcare Resource Utilization in Patients with COVID-19.},
journal = {Advances in respiratory medicine},
volume = {93},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {39996621},
issn = {2543-6031},
mesh = {Humans ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; *Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/mortality ; *Severity of Illness Index ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The primary objective of this study is to explore the potential link between the utilization of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and its impact on mortality, disease severity, and healthcare resource utilization in individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. We aim to establish a solid theoretical foundation for safe and effective clinical medications.

METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive search of various databases, including CNKI, PubMed, Science, Cell, Springer, Nature, Web of Science, and Embase. We also traced the literature of the included studies to ensure a thorough analysis of the available evidence. After applying a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria, we ultimately included a total of 41 articles in our analysis. To determine the overall effect size for dichotomous variables, we used the Mantel-Haenszel odds ratio in random effect models. For continuous variables, we calculated the inverse variance SMD using random effect models. To assess the outcomes and heterogeneity, we considered p-values (p < 0.05) and I[2] values for all outcomes. We performed multivariate and univariate meta-regression analyses using the maximum likelihood approach with the CMA 3.0 software.

RESULTS: The results of our analysis indicated that the use of ACEIs or ARBs did not significantly influence mortality (OR = 1.10, 95% CI 0.83-1.46, p = 0.43, I[2] = 84%), severity (OR = 0.99, 95% CI 0.68-1.45, p = 0.98, I[2] = 84%), or healthcare resource utilization (SMD = 0.03, 95% CI 0.06-0.12, p = 0.54, I[2] = 37%) in patients with COVID-19 compared to those not taking ACEIs or ARBs. The multivariate meta-regression analysis model explained 63%, 31%, and 100% of the sources of heterogeneity for the three outcome indicators.

CONCLUSIONS: The use of ACEIs and ARBs is not significantly correlated with mortality, severity, or healthcare resource utilization in patients with COVID-19, indicating safe clinical use of the medications.},
}

Humans
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/therapeutic use
*Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/mortality
*Severity of Illness Index
Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39996070,
year = {2024},
author = {Jara Chinarro, B and Pazos Rodriguez, L and Cuchí Alfaro, M and Izquierdo Pérez, A and Aguado Ibañez, S and Churruca Arrospide, M and Soler Vigil, M and Moral, C and Almonacid, C},
title = {Innovations and Challenges in Intermediate Respiratory Care Units: Toward Effective Integration into the Hospital System.},
journal = {Open respiratory archives},
volume = {6},
number = {Suppl 2},
pages = {100396},
pmid = {39996070},
issn = {2659-6636},
abstract = {This review gives a comprehensive and nuanced appraisal of the current state of Intermediate Respiratory Care Units (IRCUs). It aims to evaluate the distribution of IRCUs in Spain, identify challenges and gaps in the current system and analyze the impact of IRCUs during the COVID-19 pandemic. A review of the evolution and current state of IRCUs was conducted. A search was performed on PubMed. Original articles were selected for analysis. Additionally, recommendation documents on IRCUs from SEPAR and other Scientific Societies were reviewed. The review analyzes the history and evolution of the IRCUs, their role and function, IRCU models, the evolution of admission criteria, and their efficacy and efficiency. IRCUs offer significant benefits by improving patient outcomes through accurate categorization and specialized treatment of severe pulmonary diseases, ensuring high-quality care. They reduce ICU admission rates, resulting in substantial cost savings for hospitals. Our analysis indicates that while IRCUs contribute positively to patient outcomes and resource optimization in Spain, there are significant challenges related to heterogeneity in unit structures, staffing, and resource allocation. Standardizing definitions and models may enhance the effectiveness and comparability of IRCUs across the healthcare system.},
}

@article {pmid39995815,
year = {2025},
author = {Van Eijndhoven, DA and Vos, R and Bos, S},
title = {Monoclonal Antibodies in Prevention and Early Treatment of COVID-19 in Lung Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Perspective on the Role of Monoclonal Antibodies in the Future.},
journal = {Transplant international : official journal of the European Society for Organ Transplantation},
volume = {38},
number = {},
pages = {13800},
pmid = {39995815},
issn = {1432-2277},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lung Transplantation ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Transplant Recipients ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has significantly impacted lung transplant recipients (LTR), who remain vulnerable to severe COVID-19 despite vaccination, prompting the use of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as a treatment option. This systematic review summarizes the clinical efficacy of mAbs against COVID-19 in adult LTR and provides a perspective on the role of mAbs for infectious diseases in the future. A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane was conducted for studies reporting clinical outcomes of adult LTR or solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR) including LTR with drug-specific outcomes. Twelve studies were included. Pre-exposure prophylaxis with mAbs reduced COVID-19 breakthrough infection in LTR. Early treatment of COVID-19 with mAbs correlated with a reduced incidence of severe COVID-19 outcomes, although statistical significance varied among studies. Overall, observational studies have demonstrated a potential benefit of mAbs in the treatment of COVID-19 in LTR, both in prophylaxis and early treatment, as well as the importance of early administration. Moreover, mAb therapy appeared safe and could be a viable option against other pathogens, a route that warrants further investigation.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=382133, identifier CRD42022382133.},
}

Humans
*Lung Transplantation
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Transplant Recipients
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods

@article {pmid39995623,
year = {2025},
author = {Hyrkäs-Palmu, H and Hugg, TT and Jaakkola, JJK and Ikäheimo, TM},
title = {The influence of weather and urban environment characteristics on upper respiratory tract infections: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1487125},
pmid = {39995623},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology ; *Weather ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Cities ; Built Environment/statistics & numerical data ; Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Weather can independently affect the occurrence of respiratory tract infections (RTIs) in urban areas. Built environments of cities could further modify exposure to weather and consequently the risk of RTIs, but their combined effects on infections are not known.

OBJECTIVES: Our aim was to synthesize evidence of the influence of weather on RTIs in urban areas and to examine whether urban built environments are associated with both weather and RTIs.

METHODS: A systematic search of Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases was conducted on 9th of August 2022 following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were included in the review based on predefined criteria by screening 5,789 articles and reviewing reference lists of relevant studies. The quality of the studies was assessed using the AXIS appraisal tool, and the results analyzed by narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: Twenty-one eligible studies focusing on COVID-19 and influenza transmissions, were included in the review. All studies were register based ecological studies by design. Low temperature (11/19 studies) was most often associated with increased risk of RTI. Humidity showed either negative (5/14 studies), positive (3/14 studies) or no (6/14 studies) relation with RTIs. The association between wind and solar radiation on infections was inconclusive. Population density was positively associated with RTIs (14/15 studies).

CONCLUSIONS: Our review shows that exposure to low temperature increases the occurrence of RTIs in urban areas, and where also high population density increases the infection risk. The study highlights the need to further assess the relationship between built environment characteristics, weather, and RTIs.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology
*Weather
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Cities
Built Environment/statistics & numerical data
Influenza, Human/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39994977,
year = {2025},
author = {Raut, RW and Naik, HS and Sah, PM and Golińska, P and Gade, A},
title = {A Comparative Analysis of Optical Biosensors for Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza.},
journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/bit.28956},
pmid = {39994977},
issn = {1097-0290},
support = {//Financial support was provided by the National Science Center and the European Union Framework Program./ ; },
abstract = {Airborne pathogens, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, pose significant health risks. While traditional diagnostic methods have limitations, optical biosensors offer a promising solution due to their rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective nature. This review focuses on the application of optical biosensors, including colorimetry, surface plasmon resonance, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, and fluorescence techniques, for the detection of influenza and SARS-CoV-2. We discuss the advantages of these techniques, such as their potential for point-of-care testing and early disease detection. By addressing the limitations of existing methods and exploring emerging technologies, optical biosensors can play a crucial role in combating the spread of airborne pathogens. This review provides a comprehensive overview of optical biosensor techniques for the detection of both SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, addressing a significant gap in the literature.},
}

@article {pmid39994941,
year = {2025},
author = {Çakar, V and Karadağ, A and Demir, AS},
title = {Skin Problems in the Facial Area due to the Use of Personal Protective Equipment in Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical nursing},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jocn.17695},
pmid = {39994941},
issn = {1365-2702},
abstract = {AIMS: The use of personal protective equipment can cause various skin problems in the facial area. The aim of the systematic review study is to determine the skin problems and related factors due to the use of personal protective equipment.

DESIGN: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses and Joanna Briggs Institute Systematic Reviews Tools were used in the methodological approach of this systematic review. The publications were searched using MEDLINE(R), CINAHL, Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases without year limitation. Data were screened, extracted and appraised for quality by two authors.

RESULTS: In total 1670 records were identified, of which 15 studies were included in the review. These studies were mostly conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies have shown that the incidence of skin problems in the face area is high due to the use of personal protective equipment. The most common skin problems were pressure injury, rash, irritation, sweating and moisture accumulation and acne. Anatomical regions with skin problems were nose bridge, cheeks, ears, chin and forehead. The duration of use and type of personal protective equipment and sweating and moisture were the most prominent risk factors for the development of skin problems.

CONCLUSION: This study has shown that though the studies included in the review have methodological differences, there is a high rate of skin problems related to personal protective equipment used in the facial region. Well-structured, prospective observational and randomised controlled trials are needed.

It is important to understand the types and causes of skin problems in the face area due to the use of personal protective equipment to protect the facial skin health of healthcare workers.

In the inclusion criteria of this systematic review, the patients or public were not included in the study.

TRAIL REGISTRATION: The systematic review study has been registered in PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews System (CRD4202127650).},
}

@article {pmid39994584,
year = {2025},
author = {Prestedge, J and Kaufman, C and Williamson, DA},
title = {Regulation and governance for the implementation and management of point-of-care testing in Australia: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {758},
pmid = {39994584},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Point-of-Care Testing ; Australia ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Clinical Governance/organization & administration ; Government Regulation ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Point-of-care testing (PoCT) is an increasingly important diagnostic tool in the healthcare system for accessible pathology testing in hospital, primary care, and community care settings. Clear regulation and governance models are important to ensure quality of PoCT results for patient care.

METHODS: This review aimed to identify existing regulation and guidelines for management of PoCT and how this has been implemented within Australian healthcare services. We conducted a search of academic publications in PubMed and grey literature (national, state, and independent organisations) and other publicly available information from internet searches for governance of PoCT in Australia. Relevant data from these sources were extracted and narratively synthesised.

RESULTS: Forty-seven sources (17 studies from PubMed, 30 grey literature) were included in the final review. Of the grey literature sources, fifteen current PoCT governance documents comprising of six standards, five guidelines and four frameworks at the international, national and jurisdictional level were included with an increasing number of grey literature sources since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The seventeen included research articles were categorised according to implementation barriers and facilitators with the themes of workforce, clinical governance, PoCT workflow, and cost. An understanding of the clinical and cultural context for PoCT was the most frequently reported facilitator of PoCT, while the most frequently reported barrier was related to inadequate data management.

CONCLUSION: This review demonstrated limited and inconsistent sources on regulatory and governance models for implementing and managing PoCT in Australia. Identified PoCT programs showcased diverse implementation and governance models to support quality PoCT, with few reporting formal accreditation. Streamlined, practical regulation and governance for PoCT may increase adoption across healthcare settings while ensuring quality results and meeting the needs of patients and healthcare practitioners.},
}

Humans
*Point-of-Care Testing
Australia
COVID-19/epidemiology
Clinical Governance/organization & administration
Government Regulation

@article {pmid39994481,
year = {2025},
author = {Locht, C},
title = {Pertussis before, during and after Covid-19.},
journal = {EMBO molecular medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39994481},
issn = {1757-4684},
abstract = {After the Covid-19 pandemic, pertussis has made a spectacular comeback in Europe and many other parts of the world, while during the pandemic it had essentially disappeared because of the social distancing requirements. However, even before the Covid-19 pandemic, the disease was on the rise in many countries, especially those that have replaced whole-cell pertussis vaccines by acellular pertussis vaccines. Several reasons may account for this upsurge, including strain adaptation to escape vaccine-induced immunity, rapid waning of immunity after vaccination and the failure of current vaccines to prevent infection by and transmission of the causative agent Bordetella pertussis. Various strategies have been deployed to control the disease, the most effective of which is maternal vaccination during pregnancy to protect the newborn against the most severe and deadly forms of the disease. However, ultimate control of pertussis likely requires novel vaccines, which prevent infection and transmission, not only disease. One of them is the live attenuated BPZE1 vaccine, which has shown promise in pre-clinical and clinical studies and may therefore perhaps become a gamechanger.},
}

@article {pmid39587918,
year = {2025},
author = {Chagas, JPS and de Oliveira, JR and Brandão, VA and Bellucio, APB and Dutra, JVA and Dutra, JR and Cerutti, C},
title = {Evaluating imatinib in severe COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene},
volume = {119},
number = {3},
pages = {203-209},
doi = {10.1093/trstmh/trae095},
pmid = {39587918},
issn = {1878-3503},
mesh = {*Imatinib Mesylate/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19/mortality ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Considering the potential antiviral and immunomodulatory properties of imatinib, this drug has been investigated in several studies as a potential treatment option for severe cases of COVID-19, given that treatment modalities available remain limited.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the benefits or otherwise of imatinib for COVID-19 in severely ill patients, we performed a systematic review of studies that tested the efficacy and the safety of imatinib for COVID-19 and executed a meta-analysis.

METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase and Cochrane with the following search terms: 'coronavirus', 'SARS-Cov2', 'covid', 'covid-19' and 'imatinib'. The latest search date was November 2023. We used Cochrane Collaboration's tool to assess bias in randomized trials.

RESULTS: We included three randomized controlled trials with 561 participants. A total of 276 patients received imatinib and 285 received placebo. The mortality results showed no statistically significant differences between imatinib and controls (RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.37 to 1.01; p=0.06). There was no significant difference in length of hospital stay or severe adverse events occurring between groups.

CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence suggests that the potential benefits of imatinib should be further evaluated in randomized controlled trials in patients hospitalized for COVID-19.},
}

*Imatinib Mesylate/therapeutic use
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19/mortality
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid39556240,
year = {2025},
author = {Lavin, L and Gibbs, H and Vakkalanka, JP and Ternes, S and Healy, HS and Merchant, KAS and Ward, MM and Mohr, NM},
title = {The Effect of Telehealth on Cost of Health Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {310-319},
doi = {10.1089/tmj.2024.0369},
pmid = {39556240},
issn = {1556-3669},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/economics ; *Telemedicine/economics ; *Health Care Costs/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics/economics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Background: As the COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) altered delivery of health care, alternate forms of health care delivery were adopted. The usage of telehealth expanded during the PHE to reduce exposure to COVID-19, which provides the opportunity to understand how expanded telehealth access affected costs of care. The objective of this work was to evaluate the association between telehealth adoption and health care-related costs during the COVID-19 PHE. Methods: We conducted a systematic review by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and CINAHL from database inception to May 26, 2023. In June 2023, we also searched Telehealth.HHS.gov and the Rural Health Research Gateway. We sought to identify studies across three main search domains: telehealth, COVID-19, and cost. We analyzed costs based on an economic perspective: patient, health care payer, and health care sector. Results: Out of 8,557 studies screened, 12 studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies had high heterogeneity in telehealth modality and cost perspectives. Included studies had, on average, a moderate risk of bias and lacked standardized outcomes that would have aided in across-study comparisons. We found that the COVID-19 PHE was associated with an increase in spending on telehealth services and decreased patient health care costs, which limited changes in monthly total health care spending. Results were variable, however, based on the telehealth application studied. Conclusions: Telehealth may be associated with cost savings from a patient perspective and from a broader health care sector perspective. Future research should focus on the role of integrated telehealth applications and long-term costs using the societal perspective.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/economics
*Telemedicine/economics
*Health Care Costs/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics/economics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39994461,
year = {2025},
author = {Nicol, GE and Adams, DR and Lenze, EJ and Cabassa, LJ},
title = {Shrinking the know-do gap in psychedelic-assisted therapy.},
journal = {Nature human behaviour},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39994461},
issn = {2397-3374},
abstract = {There is a push to shrink the anticipated 17-year research-to-practice gap for psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT), offering precarious hope to those with disabling mental health conditions. However, numerous questions regarding how PAT works, how well it works, for whom and in what context remain. Substantial changes to current systems of care, including regulatory approvals, clinical training and access will all be required to accommodate PAT, a multimodal therapy that combines pharmacological and psychotherapy components that are not routinely available outside clinical research settings. Implementation science can help to reduce the gap in a way that maintains scientific rigour by simultaneously examining the safety, effectiveness and implementation of PAT. Specifically, precision implementation science methods (for example, sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) designs), hybrid study designs, valid measurement of fidelity and use of theory-based models and frameworks for treatment development will accelerate the process of implementation while balancing safety and quality. The time to proceed, with accelerated caution, is now.},
}

@article {pmid39994154,
year = {2025},
author = {Wisniewski, K and Henry, N and Flanagan, AY and Popoola, A and Weaver, N and Iglio, L and Alexandre, C and Myers, D and Tieu, T and Waller, R and Kornfield, SL and Gur, RE and Momplaisir, F and Njoroge, WFM},
title = {Examining the Impact of the Syndemic on Black Birthing Individuals in the USA: a Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39994154},
issn = {2196-8837},
support = {MH128593/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created a unique set of challenges within the USA. The combination of the pandemic and long-standing systemic racism has generated greater maternal health disparities in minoritized populations, especially Black birthing individuals, creating a syndemic. This systematic review evaluated studies conducted between March 2020 and December 2024 to examine how Black birthing individuals' lives were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and systemic racism. Studies were included if (1) Black birthing individuals' experiences were examined; (2) these experiences were a focus of the study; (3) they were peer-reviewed, empirical articles; and (4) data was collected after March 2020. Utilizing PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of the published literature up to December 2024 using PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and EBSCOhost and examined peer-reviewed articles that met inclusion criteria. Four authors independently screened studies and abstracted data. A total of 843 articles were screened, and from the 50 studies that were included in this paper, two overarching areas were identified: (1) societal-level themes and (2) individual- and interpersonal-level themes. Within these two areas, seven total subthemes were identified: (1a) Restrictions; (1b) Medical Mistrust and Healthcare Discrimination; (1c) Delivery, Birth, and Postpartum Experiences; (1d) Police Brutality and Community Violence; (2a) Health and Well-Being; (2b) Financial, Housing, Food, and Work-Related Challenges; and (2c) Caregiving and Family Relationships. Our findings emphasize the need for research to understand Black birthing individuals' experiences and to use these findings to create comprehensive targeted approaches.},
}

@article {pmid39993991,
year = {2025},
author = {Mink, S and Wilhelm, F and Cadamuro, J and Reimann, P and Fraunberger, P},
title = {Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in Long-COVID-Markers of Protection or Elevated Risk? A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {e70027},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70027},
pmid = {39993991},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/virology ; *Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Biomarkers/blood ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Long-COVID affects a significant number of COVID-19 survivors, profoundly impacting daily life and work. Although research suggests a potential link between antibody levels and long-COVID risk, findings remain inconclusive. Understanding antibody dynamics could support the identification of patients at risk, improve long-COVID diagnosis, and guide protective strategies such as vaccination. Despite growing evidence, no systematic review has yet evaluated the current literature on this topic. We therefore aimed to synthesise and evaluate existing evidence on the association between anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titres and long-COVID, with the goal of clarifying their potential role in predicting long-COVID risk, guiding patient management, and informing future research directions. Studies published in PubMed/Medline databases between January 2020 and October 2024 were included without language restrictions. Studies on body fluids other than serum/blood were excluded. Study selection and quality assessment was conducted independently by two researchers. After screening 949 studies, 58 studies encompassing 53,739 individuals, and 7812 long-COVID patients, were included. Evidence was highly heterogenous but most studies reported an association between anti-SARS-CoV-2-spike antibodies and long-COVID, although the nature of the association appeared to be dependent on time from acute infection. Low anti-SARS-CoV-2-spike antibodies during acute COVID-19 were associated with increased risk of long-COVID. The association between low anti-SARS-CoV-2-spike antibodies during acute COVID-19 and long-COVID suggests that maintaining sufficiently high antibody levels may be protective. However, the current evidence level is low and further studies with sufficient power are required to confirm this association and to potentially determine protective cutoffs.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/virology
*Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Biomarkers/blood
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39993534,
year = {2025},
author = {Reitsma, L and Killikelly, C and Müller, H and Larsen, LH and Nijborg, LCJ and Boelen, PA and Lenferink, LIM},
title = {Prevalence and correlates of positive and negative psychological effects of bereavement due to COVID-19: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of affective disorders},
volume = {378},
number = {},
pages = {19-35},
doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2025.02.078},
pmid = {39993534},
issn = {1573-2517},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was associated with an increase in mortality rates globally. Given the high numbers of deaths and the potentially traumatic characteristics of COVID-19 deaths, it was expected that grief-related distress would be higher in COVID-19 bereaved (compared to non-COVID-19 bereaved) people. This systematic review investigates the empirical evidence regarding this claim. More specifically, this review summarizes studies up to December 2024, evaluating the prevalence and correlates of positive and negative psychological effects of COVID-19 bereavement.

METHODS: Systematic searches were conducted in PsychInfo, Web of Science, and Medline by two independent reviewers. Eligible studies included quantitative research in peer-reviewed articles reporting on positive and/or negative psychological outcomes, using validated measures, in COVID-19 bereaved adults. The primary outcome was prolonged grief symptoms (PG).

RESULTS: We identified 9918 articles, whereof 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. Rates of psychological outcomes were primarily reported in terms of (early) PG, depression, posttraumatic stress, anxiety, and pandemic grief, and varied widely between studies (e.g., PG rates ranged between 30 % and 87 %). No studies reported on positive psychological outcomes. Closer kinship to the deceased, death unexpectedness, and COVID-19 stressors were identified as correlates of increased psychopathology.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to the small number and heterogeneity of studies, knowledge about psychological effects of COVID-19 bereavement is limited. This review offers a synthesis of research evidence to inform clinicians, policy makers, public health professionals, and future research concerned with psychological effects of COVID-19 bereavement.},
}

@article {pmid39992483,
year = {2025},
author = {Selya, A and La Rosa, GRM and Spicuzza, L and Morjaria, JB and Caci, G and Polosa, R},
title = {Association between electronic cigarette use and respiratory outcomes among people with no established smoking history: a comprehensive review and critical appraisal.},
journal = {Internal and emergency medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39992483},
issn = {1970-9366},
abstract = {Nicotine consumption in many countries is shifting away from combustible cigarettes and toward electronic cigarettes (ECs). Understanding the overall population-level impact requires weighing their possible benefits (e.g., for smoking cessation/switching) vs harms (e.g., long-term health risks). However, current evidence on health risks is limited by the absence of long-term data and confounding by prior cigarette smoking history. Focusing on short- to medium-term respiratory outcomes associated with EC use among people who never smoked (PWNS) is informative. We perform a narrative review and critical appraisal of studies examining the prospective association between exclusive EC use and respiratory outcomes among PWNS (either true never-smoking or never-established smoking). We included 12 studies with prospective designs that examine a range of respiratory outcomes subsequent to EC use among PWNS. Eight studies did not find statistically significant differences in respiratory risk associated with baseline EC use. The remaining five studies reported a significant association in at least one analysis, but in four of these studies, associations were not robust across models. Limitations included overreliance on data from the U.S. Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health, uncertain directionality (i.e., pre-existing respiratory conditions were not always ruled out), confounding by other combustible tobacco use, and small sample sizes. All but one study lacked clear and statistically significant evidence of self-reported respiratory diagnoses associated with EC use among PWNS, or showed a tenuous association with mild respiratory symptoms. This has favorable implications for ECs' population health impact; however, small sample sizes and statistical biases limit this evidence. A formal systematic review on this topic is forthcoming.},
}

@article {pmid39990674,
year = {2025},
author = {Tao, T and Tian, L and Ke, J and Zhang, C and Li, M and Xu, X and Fan, J and Tong, Y and Fan, H},
title = {Antibody-dependent enhancement of coronaviruses.},
journal = {International journal of biological sciences},
volume = {21},
number = {4},
pages = {1686-1704},
pmid = {39990674},
issn = {1449-2288},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology ; Animals ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/immunology ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology/therapeutic use ; Pandemics ; Coronavirus Infections/immunology/virology/therapy ; Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/virology ; Betacoronavirus/immunology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic presents a significant challenge to the global health and the world economy, with humanity engaged in an extended struggle against the virus. Notable advancements have been achieved in the development of vaccines and therapeutic interventions, including the application of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and convalescent plasma (CP). While antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) has not been observed in human clinical studies related to SARS-CoV-2, the potential for ADE remains a critical concern and challenge in addressing SARS-CoV-2 infections. Moreover, the causal relationship between ADE and viral characteristics remains to be clearly elucidated. Viruses that present with severe clinical manifestations of ADE have demonstrated the capacity to replicate in macrophages or other immune cells, or to alter the immunological status of these cells, which induces abortive infections characterized by systemic inflammation. In this review, we summarize experimental observations and clinical evidence concerning the ADE effect associated with coronaviruses. We critically examine the potential mechanisms through which coronaviruses mediate ADE, and propose strategies to mitigate this phenomenon in the context of viral infection treatment. Our aim is to offer informed recommendations for the containment of the COVID-19 pandemic and to strengthen the response to SARS-CoV-2, as well as to prepare for potential future coronavirus threats.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology
*Antibody-Dependent Enhancement/immunology
Animals
Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/immunology
Antibodies, Viral/immunology/therapeutic use
Pandemics
Coronavirus Infections/immunology/virology/therapy
Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/virology
Betacoronavirus/immunology

@article {pmid39990183,
year = {2025},
author = {Łukomska, E and Kloc, K and Kowalska, M and Matjaszek, A and Joshi, K and Scholz, S and Van de Velde, N and Beck, E},
title = {Healthcare Resource Utilization (HCRU) and Direct Medical Costs Associated with Long COVID or Post-COVID-19 Conditions: Findings from a Literature Review.},
journal = {Journal of market access & health policy},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {7},
pmid = {39990183},
issn = {2001-6689},
abstract = {Approximately 10-20% of individuals suffering from COVID-19 develop prolonged symptoms known as long COVID or post-COVID condition (LC). This review aimed to assess healthcare resource use (HCRU) and healthcare costs associated with LC. Because LC is not clearly defined and often remains undiagnosed, studies reporting on long-term follow-up of individuals with a COVID-19 diagnosis were also included. Among the 41 publications included, 36 reported on HCRU and 16 on costs. Individuals with LC had significantly elevated HCRU and healthcare costs vs. controls without a COVID-19 diagnosis over ≥15 months, with a 7.6-13.1% increase in total healthcare costs per person per month as assessed by difference-in-difference analysis. Among studies that did not specifically refer to LC, having a COVID-19 diagnosis was associated with a significant 4-10% increase in long-term total HCRU over 6-8 months and a 1.3- to 2.9-fold relative increase in total healthcare costs over 6 months. Due to the heterogeneity of the included studies, high-quality evidence is needed to better understand the economic burden of LC. In the absence of effective treatments, prioritizing the prevention of acute COVID-19, e.g., through vaccination, may be crucial for preventing LC and the associated long-term HCRU and medical spending.},
}

@article {pmid39989317,
year = {2025},
author = {Stone, EC and Okasako-Schmucker, DL and Taliano, J and Schaefer, M and Kuhar, DT},
title = {Risk period for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and seasonal influenza: a rapid review.},
journal = {Infection control and hospital epidemiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-9},
doi = {10.1017/ice.2025.11},
pmid = {39989317},
issn = {1559-6834},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Restricting infectious healthcare workers (HCWs) from the workplace is an important infection prevention strategy. The duration of viral shedding or symptoms are often used as proxies for the infectious period in adults but may not accurately estimate it.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the risk period for transmission among previously healthy adults infected with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant (omicron) or influenza A (influenza) by examining the duration of shedding and symptoms, and day of symptom onset in secondary cases of transmission pairs.

DESIGN: Rapid review.

METHODS: This rapid review adhered to PRISMA-ScR; five databases were searched. The cumulative daily proportion of participants with an outcome of interest was calculated for each study and summarized.

RESULTS: Forty-three studies were included. Shedding resolved among ≥ 70% of participants by the end of day nine post symptom onset for omicron, and day seven for influenza; and for ≥ 90% of participants, by the end of day 10 for omicron and day nine for influenza. Two studies suggested shedding continues > 24 hours post-fever resolution for both viruses. Symptom onset occurred in ≥ 80% of secondary cases by the end of day seven post-primary case symptom onset for omicron and day six for influenza.

CONCLUSIONS: Omicron shedding is consistent with previous recommendations to exclude infected HCWs from work for 10 days; and influenza follows a similar trend. Earlier symptom onset in most secondary cases for both pathogens indicates that, despite persistent viral shedding, most transmission occurs earlier; and the cumulative serial interval might better approximate the duration of infectiousness.},
}

@article {pmid39989260,
year = {2025},
author = {Khorshid Sokhangouy, S and Behzadi, M and Rezaei, S and Farjami, M and Haghshenas, M and Sefidbakht, Y and Mozaffari-Jovin, S},
title = {mRNA Vaccines: Design Principles, Mechanisms, and Manufacturing-Insights From COVID-19 as a Model for Combating Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Biotechnology journal},
volume = {20},
number = {2},
pages = {e202400596},
doi = {10.1002/biot.202400596},
pmid = {39989260},
issn = {1860-7314},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *mRNA Vaccines ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; },
abstract = {The full approval of two SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines, Comirnaty and Spikevax, has greatly accelerated the development of numerous mRNA vaccine candidates targeting infectious diseases and cancer. mRNA vaccines provide a rapid, safe, and versatile manufacturing process while eliciting strong humoral and cellular immune responses, making them particularly beneficial for addressing emerging pandemics. Recent advancements in modified nucleotides and lipid nanoparticle delivery systems have further emphasized the potential of this vaccine platform. Despite these transformative opportunities, significant improvements are needed to enhance vaccine efficacy, stability, and immunogenicity. This review outlines the fundamentals of mRNA vaccine design, the manufacturing process, and administration strategies, along with various optimization approaches. It also offers a comprehensive overview of the mRNA vaccine candidates developed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges posed by emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, and current strategies to address these variants. Finally, we discuss the potential of broad-spectrum and combined mRNA vaccines and examine the challenges and future prospects of the mRNA vaccine platform.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*mRNA Vaccines
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology

@article {pmid39989030,
year = {2025},
author = {Hooi, YT and Fu, TL and Tan, SH and Ong, KC and Tan, CY and Wong, KT},
title = {Neuroinvasion via Peripheral Nerves in Epidemic Viral Encephalitis Caused by Enterovirus, Orthoflavivirus and SARS-Coronavirus.},
journal = {Neuropathology and applied neurobiology},
volume = {51},
number = {1},
pages = {e70005},
doi = {10.1111/nan.70005},
pmid = {39989030},
issn = {1365-2990},
support = {//Malaysian Government/ ; FRGS/1/2020/SKK0/UM/01/6//Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS)/ ; 36-02-03-6010//Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE)/ ; H20001-E00004//Ministry of Higher Education high-impact research grant/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Encephalitis, Viral/pathology/virology ; Peripheral Nerves/pathology/virology ; COVID-19/pathology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus ; Coronavirus Infections/virology/pathology/complications ; },
abstract = {Pathogens invade the central nervous system (CNS) and cause infections either through the haematogenous route or via peripheral nerves. Neuroinvasion via peripheral nerves, involving spinal or cranial somatic nerves, is well-established for certain viral encephalitides such as rabies, herpes simplex encephalitis, and poliomyelitis. Advances in understanding emerging and re-emerging viruses that cause epidemic CNS infections have highlighted the growing importance of peripheral nerve pathways in viral neuroinvasion. This review focuses on epidemic viral encephalitides caused by three groups of RNA viruses, viz., enteroviruses (enterovirus A71 and enterovirus D68), orthoflaviviruses (West Nile virus and Japanese encephalitis virus), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses (mainly severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2). We examine evidence supporting the hypothesis that peripheral nerve viral transmission may play an increasingly significant if not more critical role than the haematogenous route in neuroinvasion.},
}

Humans
*Encephalitis, Viral/pathology/virology
Peripheral Nerves/pathology/virology
COVID-19/pathology/virology
SARS-CoV-2
Animals
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus
Coronavirus Infections/virology/pathology/complications

@article {pmid39988458,
year = {2025},
author = {Hrymak, CS and Labib, A and Akkanti, B and Antonini, MV and Bruggeman, B and Griffee, MJ and Heinsar, S and Jacobs, JP and Larzelere, M and Naoum, E and O'Neil, E and Roussos-Ross, D and Zaaqoq, AM and Peek, GJ and Arora, RC},
title = {ECMO for the pregnant and peripartum patient: A practical review of indications, unique management considerations, and an approach framework.},
journal = {Perfusion},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2676591251321070},
doi = {10.1177/02676591251321070},
pmid = {39988458},
issn = {1477-111X},
abstract = {The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to support the pregnant patient and fetus requires a complex decision-making process. Peripartum ECMO requires coordinated and informed decision-making between an interdisciplinary team of experts, incorporating the unique considerations and, at times, competing physiologic priorities of the pregnant patient. It is often confounded by a scarcity of local relevant experience engendered by its rare occurrence. No event has made the need for an organized approach to the utilization of ECMO in pregnant patients more pressing than the COVID pandemic. The conditions affecting pregnant patients that warrant ECMO consideration are high stakes and, at times, ethically challenging, although outcomes are favourable compared to the general population. This review provides background information and context, followed by a practical approach to the care and specific medical management of patients who are facing life-threatening conditions warranting ECMO while pregnant.},
}

@article {pmid39987939,
year = {2025},
author = {van der Ende, J and Dávila Campos, V and Grobusch, MP and Hanscheid, T},
title = {The dubious case of Urbanorum: a call to strengthen global pathogen verification mechanisms.},
journal = {The Lancet. Microbe},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101043},
doi = {10.1016/j.lanmic.2024.101043},
pmid = {39987939},
issn = {2666-5247},
abstract = {The detection and validation of novel pathogens have become increasingly important, as seen with the emergence of COVID-19 and mpox. Current detection and response capacities, especially in resource-poor regions, are insufficient, highlighting the key role of clinical laboratories. Despite the strides made by national and supranational agencies in targeting viruses and bacteria, parasites have been largely overlooked. The case of Urbanorum, a purportedly novel intestinal parasite reported from South America, illustrates the challenges in validating new pathogens. Compelling microscopic images have fostered belief in the existence and aetiological role of Urbanorum, posing grave challenges for health-care workers with poor parasitological knowledge, who might accept such results at face value and administer unnecessary treatments to affected individuals. Although the number of publications is scarce, these sources present a seemingly credible narrative that spreads through local social media. However, doubts about the existence of Urbanorum persist due to the absence of genetic and molecular analyses and inconsistencies in epidemiological data. This situation exemplifies the need for robust global pathogen verification mechanisms and authoritative guidance from organisations such as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO to prevent misinformation and aid clinical judgement. A Latin American regional CDC could be instrumental in verifying claims of novel pathogens and providing credible guidance at both local and global levels. This Personal View emphasises the urgent need for enhanced global coordination, improved diagnostic methodologies, and reliable information dissemination to effectively manage threats regarding emerging pathogens.},
}

@article {pmid39987697,
year = {2025},
author = {Asim, MN and Asif, T and Mehmood, F and Dengel, A},
title = {Peptide classification landscape: An in-depth systematic literature review on peptide types, databases, datasets, predictors architectures and performance.},
journal = {Computers in biology and medicine},
volume = {188},
number = {},
pages = {109821},
doi = {10.1016/j.compbiomed.2025.109821},
pmid = {39987697},
issn = {1879-0534},
mesh = {*Peptides/chemistry ; Humans ; Artificial Intelligence ; Databases, Protein ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 ; Computational Biology/methods ; },
abstract = {Peptides are gaining significant attention in diverse fields such as the pharmaceutical market has seen a steady rise in peptide-based therapeutics over the past six decades. Peptides have been utilized in the development of distinct applications including inhibitors of SARS-COV-2 and treatments for conditions like cancer and diabetes. Distinct types of peptides possess unique characteristics, and development of peptide-specific applications require the discrimination of one peptide type from others. To the best of our knowledge, approximately 230 Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven applications have been developed for 22 distinct types of peptides, yet there remains significant room for development of new predictors. A Comprehensive review addresses the critical gap by providing a consolidated platform for the development of AI-driven peptide classification applications. This paper offers several key contributions, including presenting the biological foundations of 22 unique peptide types and categorizes them into four main classes: Regulatory, Therapeutic, Nutritional, and Delivery Peptides. It offers an in-depth overview of 47 databases that have been used to develop peptide classification benchmark datasets. It summarizes details of 288 benchmark datasets that are used in development of diverse types AI-driven peptide classification applications. It provides a detailed summary of 197 sequence representation learning methods and 94 classifiers that have been used to develop 230 distinct AI-driven peptide classification applications. Across 22 distinct types peptide classification tasks related to 288 benchmark datasets, it demonstrates performance values of 230 AI-driven peptide classification applications. It summarizes experimental settings and various evaluation measures that have been employed to assess the performance of AI-driven peptide classification applications. The primary focus of this manuscript is to consolidate scattered information into a single comprehensive platform. This resource will greatly assist researchers who are interested in developing new AI-driven peptide classification applications.},
}

*Peptides/chemistry
Humans
Artificial Intelligence
Databases, Protein
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
Computational Biology/methods

@article {pmid39986548,
year = {2025},
author = {Yasmin, S and Ansari, MY},
title = {A detailed examination of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): covering past and future perspectives.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107398},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2025.107398},
pmid = {39986548},
issn = {1096-1208},
abstract = {The COVID-19 disease has spread rapidly across the world within just six months, affecting 169 million people and causing 3.5 million deaths globally (2021). The most affected countries include the USA, Brazil, India, and several European countries such as the UK and Russia. Healthcare professionals face new challenges in finding better ways to manage patients and save lives. In this regard, more comprehensive research is needed, including genomic and proteomic studies, personalized medicines and the design of suitable treatments. However, finding novel molecular entities (NME) using a standard or de novo strategy to drug development is a time-consuming and costly process. Another alternate strategy is discovering new therapeutic uses for old/existing/available medications, known as drug repurposing. There are a variety of computational repurposing methodologies, and some of them have been used to counter the coronavirus disease pandemic of 2019 (COVID-19). This review article compiles recently published data on the origin, transmission, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management of the coronavirus by drug repurposing and vaccine development approach. We have attempted to screen probable drugs in clinical trials by using literature survey. This systematic review aims to create priorities for future research of drugs repurposed and vaccine development for COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid39984803,
year = {2025},
author = {Ivlev, I and Wagner, J and Phillips, T and Treadwell, JR},
title = {Interventions for Long COVID: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of general internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39984803},
issn = {1525-1497},
support = {MSA-SOW#05-ECRI-ENG-11-07-2022/PCORI/Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute/United States ; },
abstract = {Long COVID continues to impose a significant burden on COVID-19 survivors, presenting with diverse symptoms and clinical uncertainty. This review synthesized evidence from 97 studies, including 26 randomized controlled trials and 15 non-randomized comparative studies, which explored the effectiveness, comparative effectiveness, and potential risks of proposed interventions for managing common long COVID symptoms: fatigue, neurocognitive symptoms, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. Our comprehensive analysis, encompassing English-language articles, gray literature, and feedback from 14 Key Informants (i.e., patients, caregivers, clinicians, payors, and researchers), reveals a persistently weak body of evidence, characterized by high imprecision and considerable uncertainty regarding the benefits and harms of the interventions. The studies examined a wide array of treatment categories, including multi-component rehabilitation, supplements, complementary treatments, prescription medications, and the COVID-19 vaccine. Key informants emphasized the critical need for establishing robust diagnostic criteria and utilizing functional outcomes while also highlighting significant barriers to care, including dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers, inadequate insurance coverage, and restricted access to specialty care. Given the evolving definitions of long COVID and the variable mechanisms of its management, our findings underscore the pressing need for further rigorous research to refine and validate effective treatment protocols. Until more definitive evidence is available, both clinicians and patients face substantial uncertainty in treatment decisions, with many resorting to self-treatment using costly and potentially ineffective options.},
}

@article {pmid39919521,
year = {2025},
author = {Sosa, P and Kharrazi, H and Lehmann, H},
title = {A framework to integrate equity in public health emergency response dashboards: Dashboard instrument to review equity (DIRE).},
journal = {Public health},
volume = {240},
number = {},
pages = {182-194},
doi = {10.1016/j.puhe.2024.12.053},
pmid = {39919521},
issn = {1476-5616},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Health Equity ; *Public Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Decision Making ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: COVID-19 created an urgent element of clinical and financial strain to the public health system, forcing it into rapid response mode. Key public health decisions were quickly made, with limited data and guidance to address decision trade-offs and community inequities. Gaps identified in the pandemic confirmed the need for a new tool, like this study's Dashboard Instrument to Review Equity (DIRE) Framework, to ensure decision-makers are given quick and equitable decision-making guidance.

STUDY DESIGN: Scoping review and tool development.

METHODS: The scoping review was conducted through PRISMA-ScR, and by utilizing tools like PubMed, Scopus, and Paper Piles to compile and cite. Three levels of thematic analysis were completed. Tool development consisted of building a conceptual model on the DIKW Pyramid and Informatics Stack. Then the review's five themes were integrated into DIRE.

RESULTS: The review closed at a final count of 102 articles, with five themes emerging: COVID-19 impact, Health Equity, Decisions During Emergencies, Dashboards and Decision Support, and Frameworks. COVID-19 dashboards were also reviewed. DIRE was designed into three layers (context, data flow, and dashboard users) and three data flow buckets (data sources, DIK pillars, and interventions).

CONCLUSIONS: This study aimed to (1) Establish a research foundation of health equity, COVID-19 lessons learned, and decision support, and (2) Develop an evidence-based framework. Though further research is still recommended, DIRE is now the first 3-point framework aimed at preparing decision-makers to respond quickly and equitably to future emergencies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Health Equity
*Public Health
SARS-CoV-2
Decision Making

@article {pmid39588905,
year = {2025},
author = {Kato, Y and Kumanogoh, A},
title = {The immune memory of innate immune systems.},
journal = {International immunology},
volume = {37},
number = {4},
pages = {195-202},
doi = {10.1093/intimm/dxae067},
pmid = {39588905},
issn = {1460-2377},
support = {//Cloud founding of peace winds Japan/ ; //Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan/ ; JP18H05282//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; //Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development/ ; 22gm1810003h0001//Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology/ ; //Kansai Economic Federation/ ; //Mitsubishi Zaidan/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate/immunology ; *Immunologic Memory/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Immune Tolerance/immunology ; },
abstract = {Immune memory has long been considered a function specific to adaptive immune systems; however, adaptive immune memory alone has not fully explained the mechanism by which vaccines exert their protective effects against nontarget pathogens. Recently, trained immunity, in which human monocytes vaccinated with bacillus Calmette-Guérin become highly responsive to pathogens other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis, has been reported. However, a phenomenon called endotoxin tolerance is also known, in which monocyte responsiveness is attenuated after the first lipopolysaccharide stimulation. These phenomena represent an altered innate immune response after the initial exposure to the stimulus, indicating that memories are formed in the innate immune system. In this review, we discuss trained immunity and endotoxin tolerance, known as innate immune memory, and innate immune memory formation by mRNA vaccines, which have been newly used in the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and are considered important vaccine modalities in the future.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate/immunology
*Immunologic Memory/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Animals
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Immune Tolerance/immunology

@article {pmid39983851,
year = {2025},
author = {Aja, PM and Agu, PC and Ogbu, C and Alum, EU and Fasogbon, IV and Musyoka, AM and Ngwueche, W and Egwu, CO and Tusubira, D and Ross, K},
title = {RNA research for drug discovery: Recent advances and critical insight.},
journal = {Gene},
volume = {947},
number = {},
pages = {149342},
doi = {10.1016/j.gene.2025.149342},
pmid = {39983851},
issn = {1879-0038},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Discovery/methods ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics/drug effects ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; RNA/genetics ; Oligonucleotides, Antisense/therapeutic use ; RNA Interference ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {The field of RNA research has experienced significant changes and is now at the forefront of contemporary drug development. This narrative overview explores the scientific developments and historical turning points in RNA research, emphasising the field's critical significance in the development of novel therapeutics. Important discoveries like antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), mRNA therapies, and RNA interference (RNAi) have created novel treatment options that can be targeted, such as the ground-breaking mRNA vaccinations against COVID-19. Advances in high-throughput sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing, and epitranscriptomics have further unravelled the complexity of RNA biology, shedding light on the intricacies of gene regulation and cellular diversity. The integration of computational tools and bioinformatics has propelled the identification of RNA-based biomarkers and the development of RNA therapeutics. Despite significant progress, challenges such as RNA stability, delivery, and off-target effects persist, necessitating continuous innovation and ethical considerations. This review provides a critical insight into the current state and prospects of RNA research, emphasising its transformative potential in drug discovery. By examining the interplay between technological advancements and therapeutic applications, we underscore the promising horizon for RNA-based interventions in treating a myriad of diseases, marking a new era in precision medicine.},
}

Humans
*Drug Discovery/methods
SARS-CoV-2/genetics/drug effects
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
RNA/genetics
Oligonucleotides, Antisense/therapeutic use
RNA Interference
COVID-19

@article {pmid39983449,
year = {2025},
author = {Hills, FR and Geoghegan, JL and Bostina, M},
title = {Architects of infection: A structural overview of SARS-related coronavirus spike glycoproteins.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {604},
number = {},
pages = {110383},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2024.110383},
pmid = {39983449},
issn = {1096-0341},
abstract = {The frequency of zoonotic viral emergence within the Coronaviridae family highlights the critical need to understand the structural features of spike proteins that govern viral entry and host adaptation. Investigating the structural conservation and variation in key regions of the spike protein-those involved in host range, binding affinity, viral entry, and immune evasion-is essential for predicting the evolutionary pathways of coronaviruses, assessing the risk of future host-jumping events, and discovering pan-neutralising antibodies. Here we summarise our current structural understanding of the spike proteins similar to SARS-CoV-2 from the Coronaviridae family and compare key functional similarities and differences. Our aim is to demonstrate the significant structural and sequence conservation between spike proteins from a range of host species and to outline the importance of animal coronavirus surveillance and structural investigation in our endeavour for pandemic preparedness against emerging viruses.},
}

@article {pmid39983040,
year = {2025},
author = {Jafari, Z and Kolb, BE and Aiken, S and Wilson, S},
title = {Updates on Auditory Outcomes of COVID-19 and Vaccine Side Effects: An Umbrella Review.},
journal = {Journal of speech, language, and hearing research : JSLHR},
volume = {68},
number = {3},
pages = {1311-1332},
doi = {10.1044/2024_JSLHR-24-00438},
pmid = {39983040},
issn = {1558-9102},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/complications ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Hearing Loss/etiology ; Systematic Reviews as Topic ; Female ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: This umbrella review synthesizes and discusses systematic reviews (SRs) and meta-analyses (MAs) on auditory outcomes associated with COVID-19 infection and vaccination side effects. It is innovative in offering a comprehensive synthesis of evidence across adults and infants while summarizing vaccine-related auditory side effects.

METHOD: This literature search followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines, with no restrictions on population age or symptom severity. Four electronic databases were searched from their inception to October 2024. The Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews 2 checklist and Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews tool were used to assess the quality of evidence and the risk of bias.

RESULTS: The systematic search identified 534 articles, narrowed down to 14 SRs following a full-text review: Nine focused on auditory outcomes of COVID-19; two, on outcomes in infants born to mothers infected during pregnancy; and three, on the auditory side effects of vaccination. A random-effects model revealed significantly high pooled estimates of hearing loss (5.0%, 95% CI [1.0, 9.0], p < .012, three MAs, N = 21,932) and tinnitus (13.5%, 95% CI [5.9, 21.1], p ≤ .001, four MAs, N = 36,236) in adults. However, current evidence in nonhospitalized patients indicates that auditory symptoms often improve after recovery. Studies also show a low rate of hearing loss in infants whose mothers contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy. Similarly, whereas COVID-19 vaccination has been linked to hearing loss and tinnitus, these effects are rare, and most patients experience improvement within weeks to months.

CONCLUSIONS: Evidence suggests a significantly high rate of hearing loss and tinnitus associated with COVID-19 in adults, although auditory symptoms remain rare in newborns and following vaccination. However, caution is warranted due to limitations and variability across the studies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/complications
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
Hearing Loss/etiology
Systematic Reviews as Topic
Female
Meta-Analysis as Topic

@article {pmid39882684,
year = {2025},
author = {Joshi, R and Kilinsky, A},
title = {HPV vaccine hesitancy in the United States.},
journal = {Current opinion in pediatrics},
volume = {37},
number = {2},
pages = {198-204},
pmid = {39882684},
issn = {1531-698X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage ; United States/epidemiology ; *Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control/psychology ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; *Parents/psychology ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Adolescent ; COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/psychology ; Female ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STI and accounts for roughly 37 000 HPV-associated cancers annually in the United States. Despite documented safety and effectiveness of the HPV vaccine, vaccination rates should be higher. We summarize literature surrounding vaccine hesitancy, a main reason for suboptimal vaccine coverage. We aim to describe the complex factors that lead to hesitancy in order to support improvement of vaccination rates in our communities.

RECENT FINDINGS: Studies document sustained immunogenicity and effectiveness 10 years post HPV vaccination. Vaccine coverage was rising until 2022, when initiation declined. Primary reasons for hesitancy are: perceived lack of provider recommendation, a lack of parental knowledge and necessity especially if an adolescent is not sexually active, and safety concerns. The COVID-19 pandemic challenged access to care and exacerbated vaccine-related discourse. Studies of hesitant adopters reveal that social processes, including conversations with community members, have a substantial impact on decisions to vaccinate.

SUMMARY: We highlight recent literature behind parental hesitancy toward the HPV vaccine, focusing on concerns about its necessity and safety, exacerbated by medical mistrust and misinformation. We summarize findings of successful educational outreach and community-based interventions to improve vaccination rates in the postpandemic social media era.},
}

Humans
*Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage
United States/epidemiology
*Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control/psychology
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
*Parents/psychology
*Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Adolescent
COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/psychology
Female
Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology

@article {pmid39882682,
year = {2025},
author = {Coleman, M and Khan, PY and Linde, L and Williams, PCM and Marais, BJ},
title = {Transgression of planetary boundaries and the effects on child health through an infectious diseases lens.},
journal = {Current opinion in pediatrics},
volume = {37},
number = {2},
pages = {124-136},
doi = {10.1097/MOP.0000000000001442},
pmid = {39882682},
issn = {1531-698X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Child Health ; Child ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; Global Health ; Earth, Planet ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Climate Change ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Life on earth, as we know it, is changing. The likelihood of more frequent pandemics and disease outbreaks is something that current global healthcare infrastructure is ill equipped to navigate. Human activity is forcing our planet into a new geologic epoch, the Anthropocene, which is typified by increased uncertainty resulting from human disruption of earth's life-giving ecosystems. Plagues and pandemics have always been unfortunate partners to periods of disruption, as they will be again if the frequency and severity of climate and conflict-mediated disasters increase in coming years. If we continue to exceed and degrade the planetary boundaries that protect human health, our children and their children will reap the consequences.

RECENT FINDINGS: Scientists have defined nine 'safe operating' planetary boundaries for life in all its glorious diversity to thrive on planet earth. Recent evidence suggests that six of these nine boundaries have already been transgressed, but the potential implications for these transgressions upon child health is not well articulated. We highlight how contravention of these boundaries will impact infectious disease risk and humans' ability to survive and thrive. We reflect specifically on how paediatricians are called upon to speak up for the most vulnerable members of our species, young children and as yet unborn future generations.

SUMMARY: Post COVID-19 initiatives to improve pandemic preparedness and response are certainly warranted, but pandemic prevention should include committed efforts not to exceed safe planetary boundaries. Willingly exceeding these boundaries has deep moral consequences that are poorly articulated by current ethical frameworks. Paediatricians are best placed to develop and champion the neglected 'third dimension' of medical ethics, recognizing the moral imperative to protect the long-term best interests of children and future generations.},
}

Humans
*Child Health
Child
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
Global Health
Earth, Planet
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Climate Change
Pandemics

@article {pmid39981885,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Chen, H and Li, Y and Luo, C and Zhu, Y and Zhou, X and Wang, R and He, J and Guo, H and Xu, X and Qiu, M and Li, J},
title = {Animal Models for Long COVID: Current Advances, Limitations, and Future Directions.},
journal = {Journal of medical virology},
volume = {97},
number = {2},
pages = {e70237},
doi = {10.1002/jmv.70237},
pmid = {39981885},
issn = {1096-9071},
mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Models, Animal ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; Mice ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Primates ; Cricetinae ; Mesocricetus ; },
abstract = {Long COVID (LC) represents a chronic, systemic, and often disabling condition that poses a significant ongoing threat to public health. Foundational scientific studies are needed to unravel the underlying mechanisms, with the ultimate goal of developing effective preventative and therapeutic strategies. Therefore, there is an urgent demand for animal models that can accurately replicate the clinical features of LC. This review integrates clinical epidemiological data to summarize the pathological changes in extrapulmonary systems involved in LC. Additionally, it critically examines the capacity of existing animal models, including nonhuman primates, genetically modified mice, and Syrian hamsters, to exhibit enduring postinfection symptoms that align with human clinical manifestations, and identifies key areas requiring further development. The objective is to offer insights that will aid in the development of next-generation animal models, thereby accelerating our understanding of how acute respiratory viral infections transition into chronic conditions, and ensuring preparedness for future pandemics.},
}

Animals
*Disease Models, Animal
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
Mice
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Primates
Cricetinae
Mesocricetus

@article {pmid39981620,
year = {2025},
author = {Chang, HF and Maimaitiaili, N and Huo, JF and Sun, ZL},
title = {Clinical and pathological characteristics of pulmonary meningioma: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {The Journal of international medical research},
volume = {53},
number = {2},
pages = {3000605241293675},
pmid = {39981620},
issn = {1473-2300},
mesh = {Humans ; *Meningioma/pathology/surgery/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Lung Neoplasms/pathology/surgery/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging ; Meningeal Neoplasms/pathology/diagnosis/surgery/diagnostic imaging ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Diagnosis, Differential ; COVID-19/pathology ; },
abstract = {This case report aimed to examine the clinical pathological characteristics, immunohistochemical phenotype, and differential diagnosis of primary pulmonary meningioma (PM), which is a rare tumor. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data, imaging manifestations, histological features, immunohistochemical results, and in situ hybridization results of a 60-year-old male patient who underwent surgical resection and was diagnosed with PM by pathology. Additionally, the relevant literature was reviewed. Multiple nodules were detected in the right lung of the patient during a re-examination because of a novel coronavirus infection but there were no obvious clinical symptoms. Imaging revealed well-defined masses in the upper, middle, and lower lobes of the right lung, and the masses were surgically removed. Microscopy showed that the boundary between the tumor and surrounding lung tissue was clear, and consisted of spindle cells and epithelioid cells. The final diagnosis was multiple grade II meningiomas of the right lung. No postoperative radiotherapy or chemotherapy was performed. There was no recurrence or metastasis during a 6-month follow-up. Pulmonary metastatic meningioma is rare, while primary PM is even rarer. Surgical resection is the preferred treatment method for PM, with a generally good prognosis, but a few malignant manifestations may require close follow-up.},
}

Humans
*Meningioma/pathology/surgery/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging
Male
Middle Aged
*Lung Neoplasms/pathology/surgery/diagnosis/diagnostic imaging
Meningeal Neoplasms/pathology/diagnosis/surgery/diagnostic imaging
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Diagnosis, Differential
COVID-19/pathology

@article {pmid39980948,
year = {2025},
author = {Monte, O and Yousef, A and Watson, D},
title = {A Systematic Review of Virtual Subinternships in Surgical Education: Impact on Curriculum Delivery and Learner Outcomes.},
journal = {Journal of graduate medical education},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {38-47},
pmid = {39980948},
issn = {1949-8357},
mesh = {Humans ; *Curriculum ; *Internship and Residency ; *COVID-19 ; *Education, Distance ; General Surgery/education ; Clinical Competence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Education, Medical, Graduate ; },
abstract = {Background The COVID-19 pandemic forced an abrupt reevaluation of traditional subinternship models in surgical education, with the adoption of virtual subinternships (VSIs) emerging as a prominent response. This review assesses VSIs as a cost-effective, equitable alternative, especially as virtual education continues since the end of the Federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency and may be crucial in future crises. Objective Our research question asks how curriculum delivery, learner outcomes, and interpretation of program fit occur within the VSI model. Methods A thorough systematic review was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Embase, adhering to PRISMA guidelines, and spanning publications in English from January 2020 to June 2023. Studies were selected based on review of VSI curriculum content, delivery formats, evaluation techniques, and student outcomes. Exclusion criteria encompassed non-original research or articles lacking comprehensive curriculum descriptions and associated outcomes. We assessed bias in study selection through independent double review and synthesized findings using thematic analysis. Results Of 1436 articles, 13 met the inclusion criteria. They encompassed a range of surgical fields and highlighted the diverse approaches to VSI implementation. Key themes included the integration of interactive learning sessions, balance between imparting knowledge and program familiarization, and mixed methods of program evaluation. Despite high student satisfaction reported, faculty feedback indicated it was difficult to provide an evaluation of student skills in this context and more challenging to assess students' fit for residency programs. Conclusions VSIs were effective in delivering curriculum and engaging learners, highlighting diverse implementation approach challenges in assessing student skills and program fit.},
}

Humans
*Curriculum
*Internship and Residency
*COVID-19
*Education, Distance
General Surgery/education
Clinical Competence
SARS-CoV-2
Education, Medical, Graduate

@article {pmid39980933,
year = {2025},
author = {Marron, L and Gilroy, J and Williams, M and Parlour, R and Boland, M},
title = {A narrative literature review to inform the development of a health threats preparedness framework in Ireland.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1490850},
pmid = {39980933},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Ireland ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Civil Defense ; Public Health ; Disaster Planning ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Public health emergency preparedness requires capacities and capabilities to respond to a diverse range of health threats. A key objective of Ireland's recent Health Protection Strategy is to enable preparedness, prevention, early detection and optimal response to health threats from all-hazards. We aimed to identify priority areas for inclusion in an evidence-based health threats preparedness framework, using lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, to inform a national health threats strategy and a strengthened emerging health threats function for Ireland.

METHODS: We conducted a narrative literature review to inform the health threats preparedness framework development. We carried out literature searches in two phases, from 2017 to 2022, followed by an updated search covering 2022-2024, to ensure all relevant, recent literature was captured. We used a data extraction tool to collate priority areas reported.

RESULTS: Overarching priorities for health threats preparedness are rapid decision-making, an outcomes-based, and ethical approach. Health threats preparedness should include a risk-based, all-hazards, One Health approach, aligned with legislation. Multisectoral partnerships, collaboration and communication nationally and internationally are key, alongside clear governance structures and monitoring and evaluation. Adequate resources are required to operationalize effective and sustainable preparedness. Public health leadership must be to the fore.

CONCLUSION: An effective health threats preparedness approach is legislatively mandated for European Member States. This evidence review highlights priority areas for a comprehensive health threats preparedness framework. This framework supports the development of a strengthened emerging health threats function in Ireland and may inform other Member States' preparedness.},
}

Humans
Ireland
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Civil Defense
Public Health
Disaster Planning
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics/prevention & control

@article {pmid39979093,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, J and Qin, CF},
title = {[The molecular mechanisms of olfactory dysfunction after SARS-CoV-2 infection: new insights from current research].},
journal = {Zhonghua er bi yan hou tou jing wai ke za zhi = Chinese journal of otorhinolaryngology head and neck surgery},
volume = {60},
number = {2},
pages = {107-112},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn115330-20240430-00253},
pmid = {39979093},
issn = {1673-0860},
support = {82350801, 32130005//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Olfaction Disorders/etiology/virology/physiopathology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Olfactory Mucosa/virology/metabolism ; Olfactory Receptor Neurons/metabolism ; },
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Olfaction Disorders/etiology/virology/physiopathology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Olfactory Mucosa/virology/metabolism
Olfactory Receptor Neurons/metabolism

@article {pmid39978957,
year = {2025},
author = {Rai, M and Feitosa, CM and Ingle, AP and Golinska, P},
title = {Harnessing bioactive nanocurcumin and curcumin nanocomposites to combat microbial pathogens: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-23},
doi = {10.1080/07388551.2025.2458006},
pmid = {39978957},
issn = {1549-7801},
abstract = {The alarming rise in bacterial infections including those caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens has garnered the attention of the scientific community, compelling them to explore as novel and effective alternatives to combat these infections. Moreover, the emerging viruses such as Influenza A virus subtype H1N1 (A/H1N1), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), Ebolavirus, recent coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), etc. also has a significant impact all over the world. Therefore, the management of all such infections without any side effects is one of the most important challenges for the scientific community. Hence, the development of novel and effective antimicrobial agents is a need of the hour. In this context, Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, has been used as traditional medicine for centuries to manage and treat such infections. Its bioactive constituent, curcumin has garnered significant attention in medicine due to its multifunctional bioactivities. Apart from antimicrobial properties, it also possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. However, available reports suggest that its low solubility, stability, and biocompatibility limit its use. Moreover, on the other hand, it has been reported that these limitations associated with the use of curcumin can be resolved by transforming it into its nano-form, specifically curcumin nanoparticles. Recent advancements have brought curcumin nanoparticles into the spotlight, showcasing superior properties and a broad spectrum of antimicrobial applications. In this review, we have mainly focused on antimicrobial potential of curcumin and nanocurcumin, mechanisms underpinning their antimicrobial actions. Moreover, other aspects of toxicity and safety guidelines for nano-based products have been also discussed.},
}

@article {pmid39978728,
year = {2025},
author = {McCarthy, M and Cain, KS and Meyer, SC and Montez, K and Palakshappa, D and Brown, CL},
title = {Association of Food Insecurity with Mental Health Outcomes in Parents and Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Academic pediatrics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102804},
doi = {10.1016/j.acap.2025.102804},
pmid = {39978728},
issn = {1876-2867},
}

@article {pmid39978687,
year = {2025},
author = {Keskitalo, S and Seppänen, M and Sol, AD and Varjosalo, M},
title = {From rare to more common: The emerging role of omics in improving understanding and treatment of severe inflammatory and hyperinflammatory conditions.},
journal = {The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaci.2025.02.011},
pmid = {39978687},
issn = {1097-6825},
abstract = {Inflammation is a pathogenic driver of many diseases, including atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. 'Hyperinflammation' can be seen as any inflammatory response that is deleterious to the host, regardless of cause. In medicine, hyperinflammation is defined as severe, deleterious, fluctuating, systemic or local inflammation with presence of a cytokine storm. It has been associated with rare auto-inflammatory disorders. However, advances in omics technologies, including genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, have revealed it to be more common, occurring in sepsis and severe COVID-19. Focusing on proteomics, this review highlights the key role of omics in this shift. Through an exploration of research, we present how omics technologies have contributed to improved diagnostics, prognostics, and targeted therapeutics in the field of hyperinflammation. We also discuss the integration of advanced technologies, multiomics approaches and artificial intelligence (AI), in analyzing complex datasets to develop targeted therapies, and their potential for revolutionizing clinical aspects of hyperinflammation. We emphasize personalized medicine approaches for effective treatments and outline challenges, including the need for standardized methodologies, robust bioinformatics tools, and ethical considerations regarding data privacy. This review aims to provide comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning hyperinflammation and underscores the potential of omics technologies in enabling successful clinical management.},
}

@article {pmid39977893,
year = {2024},
author = {Salih, R and Hassan, R and Ibrahim, SN and Omer, H and Abdelsamad, A and Elmustafa, F and Elomeiri, L and Mahmoud, S and Ahmed, M and Alsamani, RH and Abdalla, R and Abdelrahman, N},
title = {The Neuro-cognitive Implications of COVID-19 Infection: A Systematic Review with an Insight into the Pathophysiology (P11-13.009).},
journal = {Neurology},
volume = {102},
number = {7_supplement_1},
pages = {6303},
doi = {10.1212/WNL.0000000000206382},
pmid = {39977893},
issn = {1526-632X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/psychology/physiopathology ; Cognitive Dysfunction/physiopathology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the evidence of neuro-cognitive symptoms observed in COVID-19 patients and explore the underlying mechanisms.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has been affecting millions globally. Besides other presentation of long covid, evidence shows persistent cognitive impact, imposing further clinical and psychosocial challenges.

DESIGN/METHODS: a systematic review that followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive search in electronic databases using google scholar and pubmed from 2020 to 2023 was conducted.

RESULTS: Out of the initial 435 studies, 111 studies investigating the neurocognitive impact of COVID-19 and its pathophysiology were examined. Several neuro-cognitive symptoms were reported; namely, executive dysfunction, memory loss, attention deficit, fatigue, anxiety, delirium, and processing speed delay. Other symptoms were also identified. The exact pathophysiological mechanism behind the cognitive effects is not clear. However, the review collected evidence that suggests several potential mechanisms. The virus may enter the central nervous system (CNS) through the olfactory nerve, vascular endothelial cells, or immune cells, breaking the blood-brain barrier by binding to the ACE2 receptor. Once in the brain, the virus can cause direct and indirect damage through various mechanisms The review yielded that the combination of direct replication, immune-related inflammation involving cytokines as IL-6, TNFα, and IL-1β, immune dysregulation, vascular changes, low oxygen, brain hypometabolism, neurotransmitter imbalances, oxidative stress and amyloid deposit are responsible of the neurocognitive implications. Interestingly, many studies showed that the cognitive impacts correlate with disease severity and psychiatric manifestations. Also, the studies emphasized the role of neuroimaging including 18F FDG PET scans (Positron Emission Tomography scans), in understanding the cognitive effects of COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS: Neuro-cognitive sequelae of covid-19 are well documented. Although several hypotheses on the mechanism have been published, more data is needed for the extended impact of COVID-19 including the use of validated cognitive tests before and after the infections. Disclosure: Ms. Salih has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hassan has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ibrahim has nothing to disclose. Dr. Omer has nothing to disclose. Dr. Abdelsamad has nothing to disclose. Dr. Elmustafa has nothing to disclose. Dr. Elomeiri has nothing to disclose. Dr. Mahmoud has nothing to disclose. Dr. Ahmed has nothing to disclose. Dr. Hassan Alsamani has nothing to disclose. Dr. Abdalla has nothing to disclose. Dr. Abdelrahman has nothing to disclose.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/psychology/physiopathology
Cognitive Dysfunction/physiopathology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39977668,
year = {2025},
author = {Tang, X and Sun, S and Memedi, M and Hiyoshi, A and Montgomery, S and Cao, Y},
title = {Cost-effectiveness of preventive COVID-19 interventions: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of comparative economic evaluation studies based on real-world data.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {04017},
pmid = {39977668},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/economics ; *Cost-Benefit Analysis ; *Network Meta-Analysis as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is a knowledge gap regarding the effectiveness and utility of various preventive interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of various COVID-19 preventive interventions, including non-medical interventions (NMIs) and vaccination programs, using real-world data across different demographic and socioeconomic contexts worldwide.

METHODS: We searched Medline, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science Core Collection from December 2019 to March 2024. We identified 75 studies which compared 34 COVID-19 preventive interventions. We conducted a network meta-analysis to assess the incremental net benefits (INB) of these interventions from both societal and health care system perspectives. We adjusted purchasing power parity (PPP) and standardised willingness to pay (WTP) to enhance the comparability of cost-effectiveness across different economic levels. We performed sensitivity and subgroup analyses to examine the robustness of the results.

RESULTS: Movement restrictions and expanding testing emerged as the most cost-effective strategies from a societal perspective, with WTP-standardised INB values of USD 21 050 and USD 11 144. In contrast, combinations of NMIs with vaccination were less cost-effective, particularly in high-income regions. From a health care system perspective, vaccination plus distancing and test, trace, and isolate strategy were highly cost-effective, while masking requirements were less economically viable. The effectiveness of interventions varied significantly across different economic contexts, underlining the necessity for region-specific strategies.

CONCLUSIONS: In this study, we highlight significant variations in the cost-effectiveness of COVID-19 preventive interventions. Tailoring strategies to specific regional economic and infrastructural conditions is crucial. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of these strategies are essential for effective management of ongoing and future public health threats.

REGISTRATION: PROSPERO: CRD42023385169.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/economics
*Cost-Benefit Analysis
*Network Meta-Analysis as Topic
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39977035,
year = {2024},
author = {Cabieses, B and Blukacz, A and Rada, I and Obach, A and Carreño, A and Mezones-Holguín, E},
title = {[Not Available].},
journal = {Salud publica de Mexico},
volume = {66},
number = {2, mar-abr},
pages = {191-197},
doi = {10.21149/15329},
pmid = {39977035},
issn = {1606-7916},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Chile/epidemiology ; *Transients and Migrants ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Social Determinants of Health ; Pandemics ; Self Care ; Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {OBJETIVO: Indagar sobre los principales desafíos reportados en el marco de la emergencia sanitaria de SARS-CoV-2 según la evidencia científica disponible a la fecha en esta materia en Chile. Material y métodos. Revisión de alcance con base en tres búsquedas en Web of Science, PubMed y Google Scholar de publicaciones en inglés y español publicadas entre 2020 y 2023.

RESULTADOS: Se identificaron tres áreas clave: desafíos de acceso y uso efectivo del sistema de salud, desafíos más allá del sistema de salud, incluyendo aquellas relaciones con determinantes sociales de la salud, autocuidado e información y, finalmente, desafíos de integración de los enfoques de interculturalidad, género y cooperación internacional.

CONCLUSIONES: Se evidencian oportunidades de mejorar el abordaje de la salud de personas migrantes internacionales en Chile a raíz de la pandemia por Covid-19, de cara a futuras crisis sanitarias y para reducir brechas e inequidades que impactan la salud poblacional.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Chile/epidemiology
*Transients and Migrants
*Health Services Accessibility
*Social Determinants of Health
Pandemics
Self Care
Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration

@article {pmid39976870,
year = {2025},
author = {Gispen, F and Marks, KM},
title = {Update on Vaccination Recommendations for Adults with HIV.},
journal = {Current HIV/AIDS reports},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {17},
pmid = {39976870},
issn = {1548-3576},
support = {T32 A107613//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *HIV Infections/immunology/prevention & control ; *Vaccination ; Adult ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Vaccination recommendations for people with HIV (PWH) differ from the general population given potential for diminished immune responses as well as increased risk for infection or more severe disease. This review highlights updated vaccine recommendations, summarizes available data informing use of vaccines, and identifies areas in need of additional study for adults with HIV.

RECENT FINDINGS: Vaccine recommendations differ for PWH in terms of timing, dosing, and need to check for serological response. New vaccines are available and recommended for PWH for prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), COVID-19, mpox, and hepatitis B virus (HBV). People with HIV experience persistent immune dysfunction, characterized by chronic immune activation and increased susceptibility to certain infections. To optimize potential of vaccines to reduce infection and infection-associated malignancies in PWH, strategies to improve vaccine responses and reduce vaccine hesitancy are necessary. While newer adjuvants show promise in enhancing immunogenicity, key questions remain regarding the durability of vaccine-induced protection and the ideal timing and necessity of booster doses for many vaccines.},
}

Humans
*HIV Infections/immunology/prevention & control
*Vaccination
Adult
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid39976365,
year = {2025},
author = {Mura, M and Trignol, A and Le Dault, E and Tournier, JN},
title = {Lessons for Medical Countermeasure Development from Unforeseen Outbreaks.},
journal = {Emerging microbes & infections},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2471035},
doi = {10.1080/22221751.2025.2471035},
pmid = {39976365},
issn = {2222-1751},
abstract = {The unanticipated emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid spread of the mpox epidemic in 2022 and in 2024 brought unforeseen challenges to public health. While distinct in nature, these outbreaks share some similarities and offer valuable insights into responding to novel virus dissemination in vulnerable populations. In light of these two experiences, we aim to discern the prioritization of medical countermeasures (MCM) among antivirals, antibodies and vaccines.Comparative analysis of MCMs reveals that while antivirals serve essential roles as therapeutic tools, monoclonal antibodies can be used for both prevention and treatment, and vaccines remain of paramount importance for controlling epidemics as mass or targeted prophylaxis. Variability in production processes, administration methods, logistics, and costs distinguish these countermeasures. Vaccines, by inducing long-lasting immunity and ideally promoting herd effects, exhibit substantial advantages over other options.To enhance future pandemic readiness, proactive measures must include ready to use vaccine platforms with regulatory approval and manufacturing capacities, as well as prototype vaccines for representative pathogens and preexisting protocols to evaluate their efficacities and side effects. The comparison underscores the challenges of social acceptance and equity, particularly in vaccine production and distribution. As the world faces unknown agents, the 3 major types of MCMs do not have equal and symmetrical effects in terms of epidemic control. Thus, a vaccine-oriented strategy with a community-centered approach, proves essential for effective pandemic preparedness, encouraging continued innovation in vaccinology.},
}

@article {pmid39952011,
year = {2025},
author = {Schurr, M and Graf, J and Junne, F and Giel, KE},
title = {Psychotherapy in patients with long/post-COVID - A systematic review on the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and efficacy of available and emerging interventions.},
journal = {Journal of psychosomatic research},
volume = {190},
number = {},
pages = {112048},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychores.2025.112048},
pmid = {39952011},
issn = {1879-1360},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/psychology ; *Psychotherapy/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Feasibility Studies ; Patient Acceptance of Health Care ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUNDS: There is an urgent need for effective treatments for patients with long/post-COVID. Current recommendations for management favor a multimodal approach including psychotherapy and emphasize that interventions should also consider the mental health impact of living with long/post-COVID. This systematic review synthesizes psychotherapeutic interventions that currently target long/post-COVID complaints and summarizes data on the feasibility, acceptability, safety, and efficacy of psychotherapy for patients with long/post-COVID.

METHODS: This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA statement. Studies were retrieved from three databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, Web of Science) and independently assessed by two raters. Studies investigating patients of any age suffering from long/post-COVID were included if the intervention involved psychotherapeutic treatment and changes in long/post-COVID symptoms were reported. The review has been pre-registered on PROSPERO.

RESULTS: A total of 12 studies were included in the analysis. Of these, 10 were multimodal approaches with integrated psychotherapeutic interventions, and two were studies on stand-alone psychotherapy. The majority of studies were uncontrolled and demonstrate pre-post improvements in a range of long/post-COVID symptoms. Only one RCT could be identified, which supports the benefit of CBT for COVID-related fatigue. It was not possible to draw general conclusions regarding the efficacy of psychotherapy for long/post-COVID. However, data on feasibility, acceptability, and safety support the potential of psychotherapy as a treatment approach for long/post-COVID.

CONCLUSION: Future studies investigating the potential of psychotherapy approach for long/post-COVID which go beyond the pilot stage are needed to systematically assess feasibility, acceptability, safety, and efficacy in large-scale confirmatory trials.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/psychology
*Psychotherapy/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Feasibility Studies
Patient Acceptance of Health Care
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid39951873,
year = {2025},
author = {Donaldson, SI and Villalobos, JP and Cho, M},
title = {Following the science to understand how to reduce prejudice and its harmful consequences: A guide for evaluators and program planners.},
journal = {Evaluation and program planning},
volume = {110},
number = {},
pages = {102556},
doi = {10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2025.102556},
pmid = {39951873},
issn = {1873-7870},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Prejudice ; Program Evaluation/methods ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {"Follow the Science" was the cry heard worldwide during the COVID-19 global pandemic. This approach was used to develop evidence-based prevention measures (e.g., social distancing, hand washing, and mask-wearing), COVID treatments, and vaccines and to prevent significant declines in well-being (Donaldson, Cabrera, and Gaffaney, 2021). Leveraging this approach, the study aimed to understand promising ways to disrupt patterns of prejudice and its harmful consequences and identify the most exemplary interventions. The current study systematically reviewed 2515 published peer-reviewed studies included in 13 meta-analyses and systematic reviews on prejudice reduction interventions, using inclusion and exclusion criteria focused on gender and/or race/ethnicity. Phase 1 identified 13 studies, highlighting four exemplary evidence-based approaches: Contact Interventions, Perspective Taking, Interactive and Narrative Modalities, and Multi-faceted Interventions. These approaches presented notable success with the largest effect sizes and should be considered carefully when planning new prejudice reduction efforts. In Phase 2, the study extracted specific interventions from the 13 studies, identifying six specific exemplary interventions for mitigating prejudice and its adverse effects. The study discusses the implications of these findings for program planners and evaluators, suggesting the use of empirical insights to design post-COVID interventions, such as cultural exchange programs, virtual reality experiences, and cross-cultural music initiatives, to create meaningful social changes. Despite these practical insights, the study has limitations, including partial adherence to PRISMA guidelines and the omission of risk of bias assessment for individual studies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Prejudice
Program Evaluation/methods
Pandemics/prevention & control

@article {pmid39946827,
year = {2025},
author = {Olivieri, G and Amodio, D and Manno, EC and Santilli, V and Cotugno, N and Palma, P},
title = {Shielding the immunocompromised: COVID-19 prevention strategies for patients with primary and secondary immunodeficiencies.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {51},
number = {},
pages = {126853},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.126853},
pmid = {39946827},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes/immunology/complications ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology/therapeutic use ; Vaccination/methods ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted immunocompromised patients, particularly those with inborn errors of immunity (IEI), transplant recipients, hematologic malignancies, and those undergoing treatment with immunosuppressive biologics and medications. These patients face an elevated risk of experiencing severe or even fatal consequences following SARS-CoV-2 infections. Vaccination is the primary defense against COVID-19; however, immune responses following immunization are often suboptimal in these patients, with variable specific humoral response rates. Despite the expedited regulatory approval and the widespread implementation of COVID-19 vaccines, the efficacy and safety for immunocompromised populations require thorough investigation. In future pandemics, including vulnerable populations (VPs) in vaccine and monoclonal antibody (mAb) trials is crucial to develop safe, effective immunization strategies, address gaps in vaccine efficacy and safety data, and create tailored guidelines for at-risk groups. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines and mAbs in patients with primary and secondary immunodeficiency, with a specific focus on individuals with IEI, considering previous regulatory aspects and the necessity of including VPs in vaccine trials to enhance the quality of patient care and promote equitable health outcomes in future pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Immunocompromised Host
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes/immunology/complications
Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology/therapeutic use
Vaccination/methods
Vaccine Efficacy

@article {pmid39923730,
year = {2025},
author = {Amiral, J and Ferol, R},
title = {Update on the measurement of "soluble angiotensin converting enzyme 2" in plasma and its emerging significance as a novel biomarker of cardiovascular and kidney diseases: A concise commentary.},
journal = {Transfusion and apheresis science : official journal of the World Apheresis Association : official journal of the European Society for Haemapheresis},
volume = {64},
number = {2},
pages = {104090},
doi = {10.1016/j.transci.2025.104090},
pmid = {39923730},
issn = {1473-0502},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biomarkers/blood ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/blood ; *COVID-19/blood/diagnosis ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/blood ; *Kidney Diseases/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Angiotensin Converting Enzyme 2 has emerged as a major cell-surface enzyme receptor for controlling the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone-System. The SARS-Cov-2 pandemics has focused a major interest on that cell-surface receptor. It is the virus entry door for cell infection, and when inside it can replicate and lead to cell destruction. In some physio-pathological conditions, ADAM 17 and TMPSSR2 enzymes can cleave ACE2 on the cell surface and release its extra-cellular domain into the blood circulation. Measurement of this soluble protein then becomes possible, preferentially in plasma, but also in serum. Clinical studies have shown that Soluble ACE2 is an emerging biomarker for cardiovascular and kidney diseases and it could be of prognostic value for heart failure and kidney dysfunctions. In Covid-19 its diagnostic value is controversial, and the various studies lead to different conclusions. Many laboratory assays have been reported for the measurement of this biomarker. They concern enzymatic assays, aptamer methods, or immunoassays, either chemiluminescent or ELISA. Normal and pathological plasma concentrations reported with the various assays yet lack standardization and are very heterogenous. Recently introduced immunoassays tend to yield more compliant results despite variations due to the assay design and calibration, or the antibody targeted epitopes and reactivity. This article reports an ELISA designed with affinity purified rabbit polyclonal antibodies, obtained with recombinant ACE2 and calibrated with the recombinant protein in plasma. This assay has a global reactivity with the various ACE2 protein epitopes. Assay performance characteristics, and values measured in normal populations are presented. Availability of optimized ELISAs can contribute to a better harmonization of sACE2 measurements in plasma, and confirm its clinical significance as biomarker.},
}

Humans
*Biomarkers/blood
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/blood
*COVID-19/blood/diagnosis
*Cardiovascular Diseases/blood
*Kidney Diseases/blood
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39804238,
year = {2025},
author = {Hirsch, C and Kreuzberger, N and Skoetz, N and Monsef, I and Kluge, S and Spinner, CD and Malin, JJ},
title = {Efficacy and safety of antiviral therapies for the treatment of persistent COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients since the Omicron surge: a systematic review.},
journal = {The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy},
volume = {80},
number = {3},
pages = {633-644},
doi = {10.1093/jac/dkae482},
pmid = {39804238},
issn = {1460-2091},
support = {01VSF23002//Innovation Fund of the German Joint Federal Committee/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Ritonavir/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; COVID-19 ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; Treatment Outcome ; Hydroxylamines/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Proline/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Adenosine/analogs & derivatives ; Cytidine/analogs & derivatives ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Persistent COVID-19 (pCOVID-19) in immunocompromised patients is characterized by unspecific symptoms and pulmonary infiltrates due to ongoing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) replication. Treatment options remain unclear, leading to different approaches, including combination therapy and extended durations. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of antiviral therapies for pCOVID-19 in immunocompromised patients since the Omicron surge.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE and Scopus from 1 January 2022 to 6 August 2024 for cohort studies and case series on nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, remdesivir, ensitrelvir and molnupiravir. Evidence certainty was rated using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation for outcomes including viral clearance, recurrence/relapse, mortality, adverse events (AEs) and symptom resolution.

RESULTS: Thirteen studies involving 127 cases were included. Evidence certainty was very low. In combination therapy with at least two direct antiviral agents, viral clearance was 79%, with a 16% recurrence rate. All-cause mortality was 9%, and mortality was 6% while SARS-CoV-2 positive. In 47 cases, AEs were reported in 11%. Symptom resolution ranged from 3 to 6 days in two studies. In combination therapy with one direct antiviral agent and passive immunization, viral clearance was 89%, with an 11% recurrence rate and no deaths. In four documented cases, no AEs were observed. In monotherapy, viral clearance was 100%, with a 15% recurrence rate. One death, unrelated to SARS-CoV-2, occurred. In 12 documented cases, no AEs were observed.

CONCLUSIONS: Based on very low certainty evidence, combining one direct antiviral with passive immunization resulted in high rates of viral clearance and few recurrences. AEs occurred in cases treated with at least two direct antivirals. Controlled studies are needed.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Immunocompromised Host
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Ritonavir/therapeutic use/adverse effects
COVID-19
Drug Therapy, Combination
Treatment Outcome
Hydroxylamines/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Proline/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Adenosine/analogs & derivatives
Cytidine/analogs & derivatives

@article {pmid39774186,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdelaziz, O and Lee, S and Howard, S and Lefler, L},
title = {Perceptions and Attitudes of Registered Nurses and Nursing Students Toward Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence: A Review of Literature.},
journal = {Computers, informatics, nursing : CIN},
volume = {43},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {39774186},
issn = {1538-9774},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Students, Nursing/psychology ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; Nurses/psychology ; COVID-19 ; Education, Nursing ; Perception ; },
abstract = {The use of technology in healthcare and healthcare education settings has increased rapidly across the United States and accelerated due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, perceptions of new technologies in clinical nursing and nursing education are not well understood. Yet, understanding perceptions of registered nurses and nursing students toward advanced technology and artificial intelligence in clinical care and education is crucial if we are to implement these care delivery and educational innovations. This literature review investigates existing literature on registered nurses' and nursing students' attitudes toward advanced technology and artificial intelligence in nursing, including nursing education. Ten peer-reviewed studies published between 2017 and 2022 were reviewed. Findings revealed positive perceptions, such as improved patient care, efficiency, and reduced human error, but also concerns about job displacement, loss of human touch, and ethical/legal issues. Challenges in implementation, adequate training in technologies, and how technologies may reduce the human connection aspect of nursing care were identified. By recognizing the attitudes and perceptions of registered nurses and nursing students toward these advanced technologies, we can better ensure that it is ethically, effectively, and responsibly integrated into nursing practice and education.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Students, Nursing/psychology
*Attitude of Health Personnel
Nurses/psychology
COVID-19
Education, Nursing
Perception

@article {pmid39657207,
year = {2025},
author = {Howe, EG},
title = {Teaching of Medical Ethics Regarding Military, Genetic, Reproductive, Student Ethics, and the Holocaust at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) During Its First Fifty Years.},
journal = {Military medicine},
volume = {190},
number = {3-4},
pages = {474-478},
doi = {10.1093/milmed/usae544},
pmid = {39657207},
issn = {1930-613X},
support = {//None/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Ethics, Medical ; *Holocaust ; Students, Medical/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Curriculum/trends ; United States ; Military Personnel/psychology ; Military Medicine/ethics ; COVID-19 ; History, 20th Century ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The first class at USUHS took its initial course in medical ethics in 1977. I directed this course until recently when COVID first emerged. In this piece, I review what these students were taught during the last 5 of 8 class sessions involving the military, genetic, reproduction, student ethics, and the Holocaust. I discuss here the content of these sessions, the rationales of these contents, key lessons learned, and future directions and challenges. This review provides readers with information regarding some of the faculty brought in to provide these lectures, and key points they emphasized. It also summarizes the more subtle points regarding ethics that it was hoped students would gain and use throughout their medical careers and lifetimes.

METHODS: This review focuses particularly on core military medial ethical issues that were posed by others writing on this subject and accordingly introduced to students in this course. It also highlights key cultural considerations introduced in both genetics and reproduction. It finally emphasizes core concepts that students were introduced to prior to their entering the clinical wards. In all these classes, the initial presentations were designed primarily to prime or involve these students personally and emotionally in these issues so that they would want to address them in their discussion groups.

RESULTS: Students achieved a grounding in leading and representative ethical conflicts arising in major medical fields. These included their considering military physicians different roles, limitations genetics might pose in certain roles, pregnant person/fetal conflicts, students facing the need to confront their teachers, and students' struggles to achieve the highest moral standards they could.

CONCLUSION: Medical ethics is now taught in all medical schools but at USUHS this education must include traditional core medical topics and military medical issues as well. A challenge posed throughout the course was whether to emphasize what ethical and professional behaviors would be expected of students in their later military careers or to challenge them to engage in original analysis of ethical questions that had no self-evident answers. The decision was made in most cases to encourage students having materials to discuss and debate in their discussion groups, especially since they would learn what was expected of them in their military roles from multiple other sources. The priming for these discussions in the presentations seemingly succeeded in engaging the students and in provoking relevant debate throughout all of these cases. This learning is highly important in that in the future in both medicine and the military new unanticipated ethical issues will continue to arise. Since there will be no self-evident best ethical answers to these issues, those tasked with and thus seeking to resolve them will have to depend on having the optimal ethical skills for approaching and resolving these issues. This course sought to initiate this process, engaging these students and moving them hopefully to want to increase their skills in analyzing ethical dilemmas as they continue to progress throughout their military careers.},
}

Humans
*Ethics, Medical
*Holocaust
Students, Medical/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Curriculum/trends
United States
Military Personnel/psychology
Military Medicine/ethics
COVID-19
History, 20th Century

@article {pmid39610148,
year = {2025},
author = {Ojukwu, E and Pashaei, A and Maia, JC and Omobhude, OF and Tawfik, A and Nguyen, Y},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the HIV care continuum and associated factors in middle-income countries: A mixed-methods systematic review.},
journal = {HIV medicine},
volume = {26},
number = {3},
pages = {350-381},
doi = {10.1111/hiv.13739},
pmid = {39610148},
issn = {1468-1293},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *HIV Infections/drug therapy/epidemiology ; *Continuity of Patient Care ; *Developing Countries ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Services Accessibility ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The HIV care continuum during the COVID-19 era faced specific challenges. The pandemic, affecting the delivery of HIV care, exacerbated existing healthcare inequities and vulnerabilities in middle-income countries with limited financial resources. This study aims to set the stage for the systematic review, focusing on the impact of COVID-19 on HIV care in middle-income countries with a focus on barriers and facilitators.

METHODS: A systematic search of relevant literature, including electronic databases and manual assessment of references, was done. The review included quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods studies conducted in middle-income countries, with no age or gender restrictions. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used for reporting the results.

RESULTS: In the course of our systematic review, a comprehensive examination of the pertinent literature published between 2020 and 2024 yielded a total of 76 studies. This adverse impact was prominently attributed to an amalgamation of factors intrinsically associated with pandemic-induced restrictions, fear of contracting the COVID-19 and fear of disclosing HIV status. Moreover, an emergent theme observed in select studies underscored the enduring trend of HIV treatment continuity, which was facilitated by the burgeoning utilization of telemedicine within this context.

DISCUSSION: The pandemic negatively affected income and increased vulnerability to HIV across all phases of the HIV care continuum, except for viral suppression. Prevention measures, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), were compromised, leading to increased risky behaviours and compromised mental health among people living with HIV. HIV testing and diagnosis faced challenges, with reduced access and frequency, particularly among key populations. The pandemic also disrupted linkage and retention in care, especially in urban areas, exacerbating barriers to accessing necessary HIV treatment. Additionally, this review highlights the complex and multifaceted landscape of the pandemic's impact on HIV medical appointments, adherence and treatment engagement, with various barriers identified, including fear of COVID-19, economic constraints and disruptions in healthcare services.

CONCLUSIONS: The coexistence of pandemics has had negative effects on the HIV care continuum, with restrictions on services, an increase in care gaps and a break in the transmission chain in middle-income countries.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*HIV Infections/drug therapy/epidemiology
*Continuity of Patient Care
*Developing Countries
SARS-CoV-2
Health Services Accessibility

@article {pmid39568431,
year = {2025},
author = {Scourfield, LEA and Nardo-Marino, A and Williams, TN and Rees, DC},
title = {Infections in sickle cell disease.},
journal = {Haematologica},
volume = {110},
number = {3},
pages = {546-561},
pmid = {39568431},
issn = {1592-8721},
support = {202800/Z/16/Z/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Anemia, Sickle Cell/complications/epidemiology ; Infections/etiology/epidemiology ; Malaria/epidemiology/complications ; COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Virus Diseases/complications/epidemiology/etiology ; },
abstract = {Sickle cell disease (SCD) is one of the commonest severe inherited disorders in the world. Infection accounts for a significant amount of the morbidity and mortality, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, but is relatively poorly studied and characterized. Patients with SCD have significant immunodeficiency and are more likely to suffer severe and life-threatening complications of infection, and additionally infections can trigger complications of SCD itself. Those with more severe forms of SCD have functional asplenia from a very early age, which accounts for much of the morbidity in young children, particularly invasive infections from encapsulated bacteria including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Salmonella typhi and meningococcal disease. Additionally, there are other defects in immune function in SCD, associated with anemia, tissue infarction and impaired adaptive immunity. Complications of infections in SCD include acute chest syndrome, acute painful episodes, osteomyelitis, meningitis, urinary tract infections, overwhelming sepsis and death. Viral infections cause significant morbidity, particularly severe anemia associated with parvovirus, and to a lesser extent other infections such as influenza and coronavirus disease 2019. The relationship between malaria and SCD is complicated and discussed in this review. Unlike many of the genetic risk factors for poor outcomes in SCD, it is theoretically possible to modify the risks associated with infections with established public health measures. These include the provision of vaccination, prophylactic antibiotics and access to clean water and mosquito avoidance, although current financial restraints and political priorities have made this difficult.},
}

Humans
*Anemia, Sickle Cell/complications/epidemiology
Infections/etiology/epidemiology
Malaria/epidemiology/complications
COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Virus Diseases/complications/epidemiology/etiology

@article {pmid39207648,
year = {2025},
author = {Gáspár, Z and Szabó, BG and Ceglédi, A and Lakatos, B},
title = {Human herpesvirus reactivation and its potential role in the pathogenesis of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {GeroScience},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {167-187},
pmid = {39207648},
issn = {2509-2723},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/physiopathology/complications ; *Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Virus Activation ; Herpesvirus 4, Human/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Cytomegalovirus/immunology/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has precipitated a global pandemic with substantial long-term health implications, including the condition known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), commonly referred to as Long COVID. PASC is marked by persistent symptoms such as fatigue, neurological issues, and autonomic dysfunction that persist for months beyond the acute phase of COVID-19. This review examines the potential role of herpesvirus reactivation, specifically Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV), in the pathogenesis of PASC. Elevated antibody titers and specific T cell responses suggest recent herpesvirus reactivation in some PASC patients, although viremia is not consistently detected. SARS-CoV-2 exhibits endothelial trophism, directly affecting the vascular endothelium and contributing to microvascular pathologies. These pathologies are significant in PASC, where microvascular dysfunction may underlie various chronic symptoms. Similarly, herpesviruses like CMV also exhibit endothelial trophism, which may exacerbate endothelial damage when reactivated. Evidence suggests that EBV and CMV reactivation could indirectly contribute to the immune dysregulation, immunosenescence, and autoimmune responses observed in PASC. Additionally, EBV may play a role in the genesis of neurological symptoms through creating mitochondrial dysfunction, though direct confirmation remains elusive. The reviewed evidence suggests that while herpesviruses may not play a direct role in the pathogenesis of PASC, their potential indirect effects, especially in the context of endothelial involvement, warrant further investigation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/physiopathology/complications
*Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Virus Activation
Herpesvirus 4, Human/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
Cytomegalovirus/immunology/pathogenicity

@article {pmid39085686,
year = {2025},
author = {Luppi, V and Regis, D and Maluta, T and Sandri, A and Trivellato, A and Mirabile, A and Magnan, B},
title = {Conservative versus surgical treatment for displaced olecranon fractures in the elderly: a retrospective study and a review of the literature.},
journal = {Musculoskeletal surgery},
volume = {109},
number = {1},
pages = {63-70},
pmid = {39085686},
issn = {2035-5114},
mesh = {Humans ; Retrospective Studies ; Aged ; *Olecranon Process/injuries ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; Male ; *Ulna Fractures/surgery ; *Conservative Treatment ; Treatment Outcome ; Fracture Fixation, Internal/methods ; Reoperation ; COVID-19 ; Patient Satisfaction ; Follow-Up Studies ; Olecranon Fracture ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Surgery is the gold standard treatment of displaced olecranon fracture, but it presents a high rate of complications, especially in the elderly, including wound breakdown and fixation failure. Conservative treatment of these fractures has recently been proposed with good functional outcomes. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the functional results and level of satisfaction of displaced olecranon fractures which were managed surgically or conservatively in geriatric patients. The rate of implant removal and reoperation in the surgical group were also calculated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixteen and eleven patients aged ≥ 75 years (mean 83 and 86.2, respectively) with isolated Mayo IIA or IIB olecranon fracture were surgically and conservatively treated, respectively. All but 1 were females. Due to coronavirus pandemic, they were contacted by phone to validated clinical scores (QuickDASH, PREE and VAS), which were used to assess the outcome.

RESULTS: At an average follow-up of 26.5 months in the conservative group and 53.1 in the surgical group (range 4-82), the mean Quick DASH was 11.67 and 11.2, respectively, while the mean PREE was 11.36 and 12.67, respectively. There was no significant difference in functional outcomes between the two groups, and all patients were satisfied. Seven complications occurred in the surgical cohort (33.3%), requiring reoperation in 4 cases (19%).

CONCLUSIONS: Displaced olecranon fractures can successfully be treated conservatively in low-demand geriatric patients with good functional results and high satisfaction rate.},
}

Humans
Retrospective Studies
Aged
*Olecranon Process/injuries
Aged, 80 and over
Female
Male
*Ulna Fractures/surgery
*Conservative Treatment
Treatment Outcome
Fracture Fixation, Internal/methods
Reoperation
COVID-19
Patient Satisfaction
Follow-Up Studies
Olecranon Fracture

@article {pmid39975757,
year = {2025},
author = {Harder, J and Molter, J and Nugent, K},
title = {The association of ventilator mechanical power with weaning outcomes in intensive care unit patients: a narrative review.},
journal = {Journal of thoracic disease},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {487-495},
pmid = {39975757},
issn = {2072-1439},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Mechanical power (MP) provides an integrated index of the mechanical properties of the respiratory system during mechanical ventilation. Increased levels of MP may identify patients who will do poorly during weaning and extubation. This literature review investigated the use of MP as a predictor of weaning outcomes in intensive care unit (ICU) patients, including a focused comparison of patients with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) infections and patients with other causes of respiratory failure.

METHODS: A review of the literature using PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE, and Preprint identified 305 possible studies; after removal of duplicates, 219 studies were screened, and five papers were selected for analysis. A search updated in 2024 identified four additional papers to include in this review.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: These studies demonstrate that higher MP levels are associated with weaning failure in ICU patients and that adjustment of MP for lung-thorax compliance (LTC) improves the prediction of outcomes. One study analyzed outcomes in patients with COVID-19 infections and reported that despite having higher MPs, patients with COVID-19 had lower rates of weaning failures. This result suggests different respiratory mechanics in these patients that could complicate weaning decisions.

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, MP can predict weaning outcomes in patients with respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation. However, some patients with COVID-19 infection may have unusual respiratory mechanics that may influence these associations.},
}

@article {pmid39974561,
year = {2025},
author = {Zubieta-Calleja, G},
title = {Redefining chronic mountain sickness: insights from high-altitude research and clinical experience.},
journal = {Medical review (2021)},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {44-65},
pmid = {39974561},
issn = {2749-9642},
abstract = {Chronic Mountain Sickness (CMS), characterized by increased red blood cells above average values traditionally attributed to chronic hypobaric hypoxia exposure, is being redefined in light of recent research and clinical experience. We propose a shift in perspective, viewing CMS not as a singular entity but as Poly-erythrocythemia (PEH), as the Hematocrit/Hemoglobin/Red Blood Cells (Ht/Hb/RBCs) increase constitutes a sign, not a disease reflecting a spectrum of oxygen transport alterations in multiple diseases in the chronic hypoxia environment in high-altitude populations. Drawing on over five decades of experience at the High Altitude Pulmonary and Pathology Institute (HAPPI-IPPA) in Bolivia, we advocate for altitude-specific blood parameter norms and emphasize the importance of correct etiological diagnosis for effective management. This updated understanding not only aids in managing chronically hypoxemic patients at various altitudes but also offers valuable insights into global health challenges, including the recovery from COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid39974559,
year = {2025},
author = {Ewing, AG and Salamon, S and Pretorius, E and Joffe, D and Fox, G and Bilodeau, S and Bar-Yam, Y},
title = {Review of organ damage from COVID and Long COVID: a disease with a spectrum of pathology.},
journal = {Medical review (2021)},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {66-75},
pmid = {39974559},
issn = {2749-9642},
abstract = {Long COVID, as currently defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) and other authorities, is a symptomatic condition that has been shown to affect an estimated 10 %-30 % of non-hospitalized patients after one infection. However, COVID-19 can also cause organ damage in individuals without symptoms, who would not fall under the current definition of Long COVID. This organ damage, whether symptomatic or not, can lead to various health impacts such as heart attacks and strokes. Given these observations, it is necessary to either expand the definition of Long COVID to include organ damage or recognize COVID-19-induced organ damage as a distinct condition affecting many symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals after COVID-19 infections. It is important to consider that many known adverse health outcomes, including heart conditions and cancers, can be asymptomatic until harm thresholds are reached. Many more medical conditions can be identified by testing than those that are recognized through reported symptoms. It is therefore important to similarly recognize that while Long COVID symptoms are associated with organ damage, there are many individuals that have organ damage without displaying recognized symptoms and to include this harm in the characterization of COVID-19 and in the monitoring of individuals after COVID-19 infections.},
}

@article {pmid39974249,
year = {2025},
author = {Magomedova, A and Fatima, G},
title = {Mental Health and Well-Being in the Modern Era: A Comprehensive Review of Challenges and Interventions.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {e77683},
pmid = {39974249},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {A critical global concern in the modern era is mental health and well-being, where rapid socioeconomic change, technological advancements, and lifestyle shifts have significantly impacted individuals' psychological health. Primary stressors today include urbanization, digital dependency, social isolation, and economic pressures, alongside the escalating prevalence of mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and burnout. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated global mental health crises, increasing the vulnerability of populations during times of uncertainty and instability. This paper critically examines emerging connections between mental health and lifestyle factors such as sleep, diet, and exercise. Interventions are discussed from a multidimensional perspective, encompassing pharmacological treatments, psychotherapy, digital mental health tools, and community-based programs. Special attention is given to the rise of telemedicine and mobile mental health apps, offering innovative solutions to bridge gaps in mental healthcare accessibility. Furthermore, the review underscores the importance of preventive approaches, promoting mental health literacy, reducing stigma, and fostering resilience through mindfulness, cognitive behavioral techniques, and social support systems.},
}

@article {pmid39973944,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, H and Lu, X and Kim, SJ},
title = {Music-based interventions using digital technology for individuals with acquired brain injuries: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1532925},
pmid = {39973944},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of digital technology in music-based interventions for individuals with brain injuries has gained traction, especially post COVID-19, in addressing the need for effective, long-term rehabilitation. This scoping review examines the landscape of digital music-based interventions, focusing on their application in motor and cognitive rehabilitation for patients with brain injuries.

METHODS: We conducted a literature search using five academic databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Medline, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. Twenty-six studies met the predefined criteria for inclusion in this review, and these studies were analyzed including digital interventions used.

RESULTS: Twenty-six of 1994 studies were included. Results demonstrated a clear evolution in intervention methodologies, with earlier research focusing on rhythmic and MIDI-based tools, while more recent studies integrated virtual reality, augmented reality, and adaptive feedback mechanisms. The findings showed significant improvements in motor functions, such as upper limb movement and gait, in most of the reviewed studies, as well as some cognitive benefits, particularly when personalized music interventions were applied. However, challenges were noted regarding device complexity, cost, and inconsistent assessment methods across studies.

DISCUSSION: Digital music-based interventions show substantial promise in enhancing motor and cognitive function for individuals with neurological impairments. Nevertheless, barriers such as technological accessibility, the need for patient comfort, and a lack of standardization in assessment remain. Future research should focus on simplifying interfaces, standardizing protocols, and exploring hybrid interventions that combine immersive virtual reality with the adaptability of music therapy to create holistic, patient-centered rehabilitation solutions.},
}

@article {pmid39973941,
year = {2025},
author = {Abaate, TJ and Buowari, DY and Agiri, UA and Inimgba, T and Ogbonna, VI and Onyeaghala, C and Worgu, GO and Somiari, A and Ezebuiro, EI and Onuah, IA},
title = {Prevalence of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Among Healthcare Workers in Nigeria: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {International journal of public health},
volume = {70},
number = {},
pages = {1607655},
pmid = {39973941},
issn = {1661-8564},
mesh = {Humans ; Nigeria ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Prevalence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Nigerian healthcare professionals.

METHODS: An extensive language-unrestricted literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, and the African Index Medicus to identify studies reporting hesitancy to COVID-19 vaccines among healthcare workers in Nigeria. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cross-sectional studies. A single-arm meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: Of the 206 articles, 22 publications with 20,724 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy was 75% (95% CI: 61%-88%, I[2] = 99.69%, P < 0.001). Reasons for hesitancy, including concerns about side effects, lack of trust, and safety, were prevalent at 76% (CI: 0.57-0.94, I[2] = 99.24%, P < 0.001), 55% (CI: 0.042-0.272, I[2] = 97.42%, P < 0.001), and 68% (CI: 0.047-0.89, I[2] = 98.59%, P < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSION: There was significant hesitancy among Nigerian healthcare workers towards COVID-19 vaccination; thus, strategies to increase vaccination acceptance among healthcare workers should be developed.},
}

Humans
Nigeria
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Prevalence
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39973420,
year = {2024},
author = {Rhodes, P and Parry, PI},
title = {Pharmaceutical product recall and educated hesitancy towards new drugs and novel vaccines.},
journal = {The International journal of risk & safety in medicine},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {317-333},
doi = {10.1177/09246479241292008},
pmid = {39973420},
issn = {1878-6847},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Pharmacovigilance ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Recalls ; Safety-Based Drug Withdrawals ; },
abstract = {Background: Of many pharmaceutical products launched for the benefit of humanity, a significant number have had to be recalled from the marketplace due to adverse events. A systematic review found market recalls for 462 pharmaceutical products between 1953 and 2013. In our current and remarkable period of medical history, excess mortality figures are high in many countries. Yet these statistics receive limited attention, often ignored or dismissed by mainstream news outlets. This excess mortality may include adverse effects caused by novel pharmaceutical agents that use gene-code technology.Objective: To examine key pharmaceutical product withdrawals and derive lessons that inform the current use of gene-based COVID-19 vaccines.Methods: Selective narrative review of historical pharmaceutical recalls and comparative issues with recent COVID-19 vaccines.Results: Parallels with past drug withdrawals and gene-based vaccines include distortion of clinical trial data, with critical adverse event data absent from high-impact journal publications. Delayed regulatory action on pharmacovigilance data to trigger market withdrawal occurred with Vioxx (rofecoxib) and is apparent with the gene-based COVID-19 vaccines.Conclusion: Public health requires access to raw clinical trial data, improved transparency from corporations and heightened, active pharmacovigilance worldwide.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Pharmacovigilance
COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Recalls
Safety-Based Drug Withdrawals

@article {pmid39973397,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhu, S and Chen, D and Yang, X and Yang, L and Han, Y},
title = {Organoid Models to Study Human Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Cell proliferation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70004},
doi = {10.1111/cpr.70004},
pmid = {39973397},
issn = {1365-2184},
support = {2024YFA1107500//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2024KF19//Key Laboratory of Organ Regeneration and Reconstruction, Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; 2024-I2M-3-012//CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (CIFMS)/ ; },
abstract = {Infectious diseases have become significant events that threaten global public health and economic development. Since the 20th century, multiple outbreaks of infectious diseases have gradually deepened humanity's understanding of viral infections, prevention and treatment. Organoids possess a high degree of similarity to human physiological states and have strong self-organising capabilities. Research on infectious diseases based on organoids offers significant advantages in terms of availability, editability and diversity. In this perspective, we briefly introduce the development of organoids, focusing on historically significant infectious diseases that have caused fatal harm to human health, such as HIV, ZIKV, SARS-CoV-2 and MPXV. We further summarise relevant research on the pathogenic mechanisms of these viruses based on organoid models, host reactivity, and therapeutic strategies. Finally, we list the latest research techniques combined with organoid models, discuss the challenges faced in the development of organoids and look forward to the future prospects of organoids in vaccine and drug development.},
}

@article {pmid39973372,
year = {2025},
author = {Kamaruzaman, NK and Rizzi, M and Attwell, K},
title = {A comprehensive review of the childhood vaccination landscape in Malaysia.},
journal = {Epidemiology and infection},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {e41},
pmid = {39973372},
issn = {1469-4409},
mesh = {Malaysia ; Humans ; *Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Immunization Programs ; Health Policy ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Vaccination Hesitancy/statistics & numerical data/psychology ; Vaccines ; Infant ; },
abstract = {Vaccination is one of the most cost-effective and successful public health interventions to prevent infectious diseases. Governments worldwide have tried to optimize vaccination coverage, including using vaccine mandates. This review of recent literature and policy aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Malaysia's childhood vaccination landscape. The document analysis was used to identify and examine information from government policy documents, official government media statements, mainstream news content, and research papers. Content analysis was then employed to analyze the gathered information. Despite the successes of Malaysia's National Immunization Programme, a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases has raised concerns about vaccine hesitancy and refusal. Several contributing factors have been identified, including a preference for alternative medicines, doubts about halal status, fear of vaccine injury, concerns about the vaccines' contents, conspiracy theories, as well as convenience and access barriers. While various initiatives have been implemented, Malaysia may consider using vaccine mandates, as several countries have recently done, as a potential policy intervention to address these challenges. This review benefits policymakers, epidemiologists, as well as researchers involved in regional or global policy planning and advocacy efforts. It also offers comprehensive insights into designing effective interventions and making informed policy decisions regarding childhood vaccination programmes.},
}

Malaysia
Humans
*Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Immunization Programs
Health Policy
Child
Child, Preschool
Vaccination Hesitancy/statistics & numerical data/psychology
Vaccines
Infant

@article {pmid39930124,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, SS and Calabrese, EC and Slater, BJ and Lin, C and Hong, J and Dort, J and Lim, R and Tsuda, S and Awad, Z and Babidge, W and Maddern, G and Nepal, P and Vosburg, RW and Ignacio, R and Bavishi, D and Kchaou, A and Ayloo, S and Hanna, NM and Kohn, GP},
title = {SAGES guidelines update to laparoscopy in the era of COVID-19.},
journal = {Surgical endoscopy},
volume = {39},
number = {3},
pages = {1409-1418},
pmid = {39930124},
issn = {1432-2218},
mesh = {*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Laparoscopy/methods ; Appendectomy/methods ; Appendicitis/surgery ; Cholecystitis/surgery ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic/methods ; Elective Surgical Procedures/standards ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Patients requiring cholecystectomy or appendectomy may present with concomitant COVID infection in both the inpatient and outpatient scenarios. It is unclear whether these patients benefit more from operative or nonoperative management in the setting of active COVID infection. These guidelines seek to address urgent and elective clinical scenarios.

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted to address these questions. These results were then presented to an interdisciplinary panel that formulated recommendations based on the best available evidence or utilized expert opinion when the evidence base was lacking.

RESULTS: Conditional recommendations were made in favor of (1) either operative or nonoperative management of COVID-positive patients with appendicitis or cholecystitis and (2) delaying operations by more than six weeks in patients who test positive for COVID in the elective setting.

CONCLUSIONS: These recommendations should provide guidance regarding the management of surgical patients with concomitant COVID infection. This guideline also identifies important areas where future research should focus to strengthen the evidence base.},
}

*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Humans
*Laparoscopy/methods
Appendectomy/methods
Appendicitis/surgery
Cholecystitis/surgery
SARS-CoV-2
Cholecystectomy, Laparoscopic/methods
Elective Surgical Procedures/standards

@article {pmid39972626,
year = {2025},
author = {Jin, J and Kim, HK},
title = {Exploring the effect of social media use on loneliness among older adults: A meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of health psychology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {13591053251316673},
doi = {10.1177/13591053251316673},
pmid = {39972626},
issn = {1461-7277},
abstract = {With the global aging population, more research is needed on older adults' mental health, particularly loneliness, a key psychological challenge resulting from life changes. While some researchers highlighted the potential of social media in reducing loneliness, the empirical findings remain unclear. This meta-analysis, including 19,134 observations, revealed no significant overall correlation between social media use and loneliness among older adults. To explore variability between studies, we conducted sensitivity analyses (excluding influential studies), subgroup analyses (based on age group, year of data collection, measure of social media use, and study region), and meta-regression with gender distribution as a moderator. Notably, a negative association was identified in the subgroup of studies conducted before COVID-19, indicating that social media may have helped reduce loneliness among older adults during that period. However, this benefit highlights that online networking cannot fully replace real-life social interaction.},
}

@article {pmid39972475,
year = {2025},
author = {Saleem, W and Aslam, A and Tariq, M and Nauwynck, H},
title = {Intestinal mucus: the unsung hero in the battle against viral gastroenteritis.},
journal = {Gut pathogens},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {11},
pmid = {39972475},
issn = {1757-4749},
abstract = {Intestinal mucus plays a crucial role in defending against enteric infections by protecting the vulnerable intestinal epithelial cells both physically and through its various constituents. Despite this, numerous gastroenteritis-causing viruses, such as rotavirus, coronavirus, adenovirus, astrovirus, calicivirus, and enterovirus, continue to pose significant threats to humans and animals. While several studies have examined the interactions between these viruses and intestinal mucus, significant gaps remain in understanding the full protective potential of intestinal mucus against these pathogens. This review aims to elucidate the protective role of intestinal mucus in viral gastroenteritis. It begins with a comprehensive literature overview of (i) intestinal mucus, (ii) enteric viruses of medical and veterinary importance, and (iii) the known interactions between various enteric viruses and intestinal mucus. Following this, a case study is presented to highlight the age-dependent blocking effect of porcine intestinal mucus against transmissible gastroenteritis virus, a porcine coronavirus. Finally, the review discusses future investigation directions to further explore the potential of intestinal mucus as a defense mechanism against viral gastroenteritis to stimulate further research in this dynamic and critical area.},
}

@article {pmid39972444,
year = {2025},
author = {Borek, AJ and Roleston, C and Lazzarino, R and Cooray, M and Hayward, G and Roberts, N and Blandford, E and Fowler, T and Tonkin-Crine, S},
title = {Acceptability of self-sampling and self-testing for infections: a rapid systematic review on public users' views.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {695},
pmid = {39972444},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Self-Testing ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Sexually Transmitted Diseases/diagnosis ; *Specimen Handling/methods ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Self-sampling and self-testing have been increasingly used for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and quickly became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic. User acceptability, preferences, and experiences are important factors affecting self-sampling/self-testing uptake. Understanding these factors is key to managing infections and planning responses to health emergencies. This review aimed to identify user views and experiences related to the acceptability, usability, motivations and preferences for self-sampling/self-testing for infections.

METHODS: We conducted a rapid systematic review. We searched Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Web of Science, limiting records to those published in English between 2014 and 2023. We also searched manually for additional peer-reviewed and grey literature. We included reports of public users' views on self-sampling/self-testing for any symptomatic and asymptomatic infections (except human papillomavirus) with qualitative, mixed-methods or survey data relevant to the review aim. Data were extracted into tables and qualitative findings were coded in NVivo. We synthesised data narratively.

RESULTS: We identified 194 eligible reports, including 64 from Europe (which we prioritised for detailed synthesis) and 130 from outside of Europe. In Europe, the studied infections were respiratory (n = 42, including 37 for COVID-19), STIs/HIV/genital infections (n = 20), and hepatitis C (n = 2). Findings indicate that users found self-sampling/self-testing acceptable across infection/sampling types, populations, settings, and countries. Users wanted self-sampling/self-testing to help determine infection status and protect others. The main benefits were privacy and convenience, helping reduce the potential stigma of STIs/HIV/genital infections, and (for COVID-19) informing behaviour (e.g., socialising, self-isolating) and contributing to research. Easier to perform and less invasive sampling approaches were more acceptable. However, some participants reported challenges to self-sampling/self-testing, such as not understanding instructions, pain/discomfort in collecting samples, and lack of confidence in interpreting results.

CONCLUSIONS: This review synthesised evidence on the acceptability of SS/ST and factors affecting it across different infections, sampling approaches, settings, and populations. Evidence shows that most people with experience of self-sampling/self-testing found it acceptable and were willing to accept some discomfort in favour of several perceived benefits. This amenability to self-sampling/self-testing could be leveraged for diagnosing infections and preventing transmission. It can be used to support the viability of new models of clinical care and pandemic preparedness.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: The review was pre-registered on PROSPERO (ref. CRD42024507656).},
}

Humans
*Self-Testing
*COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Sexually Transmitted Diseases/diagnosis
*Specimen Handling/methods
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data/psychology

@article {pmid39972435,
year = {2025},
author = {Getie, A and Ayalneh, M and Bimerew, M},
title = {Global prevalence and determinant factors of pain, depression, and anxiety among cancer patients: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {156},
pmid = {39972435},
issn = {1471-244X},
mesh = {Humans ; Prevalence ; *Neoplasms/psychology/epidemiology/complications ; *Cancer Survivors/psychology ; *Depression/epidemiology/psychology ; *Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology ; *Systematic Reviews as Topic ; COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Pain/psychology/epidemiology ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Depression and anxiety are prevalent psychological disorders that significantly affect physical, emotional, and social well-being, reducing quality of life and increasing medical costs. These issues are especially challenging for cancer survivors, complicating treatment management, affecting adherence, and potentially impacting survival rates. Thus, this umbrella review aimed to evaluate the global prevalence of pain, depression, and anxiety, as well as their determinants among cancer patients.

METHOD: An exhaustive umbrella review was conducted to systematically assess the prevalence and determinants of pain, depression, and anxiety among cancer survivors worldwide by analyzing systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The review involved a thorough search of multiple databases and included studies published in English up to July 2024 that reported on these symptoms. The process involved screening and selecting studies based on specific criteria, assessing the risk of bias using the AMSTAR tool, and analyzing data with statistical methods to determine overall prevalence and identify predictors. This comprehensive approach aimed to provide a detailed understanding of these psychological issues in cancer survivors and guide future research and interventions.

RESULT: The global summary prevalence of depression among cancer survivors was 33.16% (95% CI 27.59-38.74), while anxiety had a prevalence of 30.55% (95% CI 24.04-37.06). Pain prevalence after treatment was 39.77% (95% CI 31.84-47.70). Before treatment, 65.22% (95% CI 62.86-67.57) of cancer patients reported pain, which persisted in 51.34% (95% CI 40.01-62.67) during treatment. The analysis also found that during the COVID-19 pandemic, depression and anxiety rates among cancer patients were at their highest, with prevalences of 43.25% (95% CI 41.25-45.26) and 52.93% (95% CI 50.91-54.96), respectively.

CONCLUSION: The umbrella review found that depression and anxiety prevalence among cancer survivors was 33.16% and 30.55%, respectively, with significantly higher rates during COVID-19 at 43.25% and 52.93%. Key factors contributing to depression included poor social support, advanced cancer stage, and inadequate sleep, while anxiety was significantly linked to advanced cancer stage and poor sleep quality.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

Humans
Prevalence
*Neoplasms/psychology/epidemiology/complications
*Cancer Survivors/psychology
*Depression/epidemiology/psychology
*Anxiety/epidemiology/psychology
*Systematic Reviews as Topic
COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Pain/psychology/epidemiology
Meta-Analysis as Topic
Global Health

@article {pmid39972218,
year = {2025},
author = {Shrum, W and Miller, P and Asiamah, NO and Zou, F},
title = {Alternative theories of COVID-19: social dimensions and information sources.},
journal = {Journal of public health policy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39972218},
issn = {1745-655X},
support = {2021 Award to Paige Miller//Tommy Thompson Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {While scientific understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic increased, conspiracy theories undermined the foundations of public health policy, making it significantly more difficult both to discuss and to implement. Popular alternative narratives include the claim that government was using restrictions to control people's behavior, and that the pandemic was caused by 5G cellular technology. We examine the extent to which alternative beliefs were associated with sociodemographic characteristics and the sources through which people acquired information during the pandemic. Our analysis uses a demographically balanced online survey of 10,022 participants from 50 US states, collected during August of 2021. Results indicate that those holding alternative theories tended to be right leaning, religious, young, male, and unvaccinated individuals. Sources of information were also strong predictors of such beliefs, specifically the extent to which social media were considered reliable.},
}

@article {pmid39784904,
year = {2025},
author = {Mahneva, O and Fakhoury, TR and Hanspal, SS and Gonzalez Velazquez, JO and Patel, N and Henzlova, MJ},
title = {Systematic Review of COVID-19 and COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Myocarditis in Athletes: Incidence, Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Return-to-Play Principles.},
journal = {Clinical journal of sport medicine : official journal of the Canadian Academy of Sport Medicine},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {191-205},
pmid = {39784904},
issn = {1536-3724},
mesh = {Humans ; *Myocarditis/etiology/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Return to Sport ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Incidence ; Prognosis ; *Athletes ; mRNA Vaccines ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the original peer-reviewed studies on athletes who developed myocarditis after coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection or after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. Both entities likely have an immunologic component. We discuss elite, professional, college, and adolescent athletes. The athletes are generally young and healthy, representing a distinctive population group that differs from the general population. This review includes diagnosis of myocarditis, incidence, complications, prognosis, and return-to-play guidance for sports medicine clinicians and coaches.

DATA SOURCES: We surveyed the PUBMED, Embase, and Web of Science databases for the relevant peer-reviewed articles in the English language published from the onset of the pandemic until April 2023. Included were original observational studies and case series. Excluded were individual case reports and a small series with incomplete data. The resulting search yielded 30 original articles.

MAIN RESULTS: Reported myocardial abnormalities in athletes were rare after COVID-19 infection and even less frequent after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. True incidence, however, may be higher because of under-reporting and frequent asymptomatic presentation. Male gender was prevalent for both manifestations; postvaccination myocarditis occurrence was the highest after the second vaccine dose. Diagnostic and return-to-play algorithms were developed and should be adopted and followed.

CONCLUSIONS: The risk of myocarditis from COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 mRNA vaccination is very low. The long-term prognosis and evolution of the observed cardiac magnetic resonance abnormalities are currently unknown. Although inferences can be made from the published data, COVID-19 and postvaccine myocarditis in athletes may represent only a small fraction of the true incidence of those who have been affected worldwide and not evaluated.},
}

Humans
*Myocarditis/etiology/epidemiology/diagnosis
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Return to Sport
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Incidence
Prognosis
*Athletes
mRNA Vaccines
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39625159,
year = {2025},
author = {Rathnayake, D and Clarke, M and Jayasinghe, V},
title = {Global strategies to reduce elective surgery waiting times for sustainable health outcomes: a systematic review.},
journal = {Hospital practice (1995)},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {2435802},
doi = {10.1080/21548331.2024.2435802},
pmid = {39625159},
issn = {2154-8331},
mesh = {Humans ; *Elective Surgical Procedures/statistics & numerical data ; *Waiting Lists ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Quality Improvement ; Appointments and Schedules ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Referral and Consultation/statistics & numerical data ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Long waiting times for elective surgery reflect not just backlog issues but systemic inefficiencies that disrupt the smooth flow of patients through the surgical care pathway. This systematic review adopts a holistic approach to summarize global policies, strategies, and interventions aimed at reducing elective surgery wait times.

METHOD: A comprehensive electronic search was performed in PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library from December 2019 to January 2020 and updated in April 2022. Eligible studies, published after 2013, focused on waiting lists for major elective surgeries in adults, excluding cancer-related surgeries. Both randomized and non-randomized studies and systematic reviews were included. Study quality was assessed using ROBINS-I, AMSTAR 2, and CASP tools, as appropriate. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42019158455) and reported using a PRISMA flow diagram.

RESULTS: From 7543 records, 92 articles met the inclusion criteria. Evidence was categorized into seven strategic areas: referral management, patient prioritization, preventing scheduled surgery cancellations, perioperative time management, quality improvement methods for surgical care pathways, and waiting time targets for hospitals. Strategies such as referral management, patient prioritization, and preventing cancellations had the most significant impact on reducing waiting times, while perioperative time management and waiting time targets proved less effective.

CONCLUSION: The review highlights that targeted interventions at different stages of the surgical care pathway yield variable impacts on overall waiting times. While individual measures had limited effects, combining multiple short-term strategies may be more beneficial, particularly for health systems recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Elective Surgical Procedures/statistics & numerical data
*Waiting Lists
COVID-19/prevention & control
Quality Improvement
Appointments and Schedules
SARS-CoV-2
Referral and Consultation/statistics & numerical data
Global Health

@article {pmid39971589,
year = {2025},
author = {Zou, Y and Li, D and Gianni, V and Congdon, N and Piyasena, P and Prakalapakorn, SG and Zhang, R and Zhao, Z and Chan, VF and Yu, M},
title = {Prevalence of dry eye disease among children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ open ophthalmology},
volume = {10},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {39971589},
issn = {2397-3269},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dry Eye Syndromes/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Prevalence ; Child ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; Adolescent ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial disorder of the tear film and ocular surface instability that causes ocular discomfort and visual impairment. The increasing use of digital devices and changing lifestyle patterns have raised concerns about a potential rise in DED among children. Understanding the prevalence of paediatric DED is crucial for developing effective diagnostic and management strategies tailored to this vulnerable population.

METHOD: An exhaustive literature search was performed on several databases covering the period from 1 January 2001 to 1 April 2024. Prevalence estimates of DED were combined using random effects models, and heterogeneity sources were explored through subgroup and regression analyses.

RESULTS: Our literature search identified 7309 articles, of which 41 articles, representing 42 study cohorts (48 479 participants) included in the systematic review. The estimated prevalence of DED among children was 23.7% (95% CI 18.5% to 28.9%). The prevalence of DED by different diagnostic criteria (clinical signs vs reported symptoms by questionnaire) was 16.6% (95% CI 13.7% to 19.5%; 26 studies; 27 107 children) vs 34.6% (95% CI 23.7% to 45.6%; 16 studies; 21 372 children; p<0.01), respectively. The prevalence of DED after the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak was 44.1% (95% CI 25.5% to 62.7%; 8 studies; 9163 children), which was significantly higher than the 18.7% (95% CI 15.6% to 21.9%; 34studies, 39 316 children; p=0.01) before the COVID-19 outbreak. High between-study heterogeneity was noted (I[2]>92%). In meta-regression analysis, the prevalence of DED among children increased by 7.1% with each 10° decrease in latitude (p=0.015), and by 10.2% with each 10° increase in mean annual temperature (p=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS: DED is common in children up to 18 years of age and poses a significant disease burden. Standardisation of the diagnosis of DED in children and further study of other risk factors are needed to fully explain the epidemiology of DED in children.},
}

Humans
*Dry Eye Syndromes/epidemiology/diagnosis
Prevalence
Child
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Global Health/statistics & numerical data
Adolescent

@article {pmid39971586,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, C and Zhou, W and Qi, J and Chen, M and Yuan, Z and Miao, J and Yang, M and Chen, J and Shen, F and Cao, K and Qu, R and Jiang, D and Du, Y and Wu, X and You, Y and Yan, R and Zhu, C and Yang, S and , },
title = {Adherence to mask-wearing and its impact on the incidence and deaths of viral respiratory infectious diseases: a systematic review, meta-analysis and modelling study.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {10},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {39971586},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *Masks ; *COVID-19/mortality/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Incidence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Respiratory Tract Infections/mortality/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Patient Compliance ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study systematically analysed global and regional adherence to mask-wearing and its impact on the incidence and deaths of viral respiratory infectious diseases (VRIDs).

METHODS: Relevant studies were sourced from PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus. We included observational studies with available raw data on mask-wearing adherence (rates of acceptability of mask-wearing, mask-wearing in public settings and correct mask-wearing) during VRID pandemics/epidemics. The COVID-19-related incidence and deaths were sourced from Global Burden of Diseases 2021. The quality of each study was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Scale. Pooled rates and effects of mask-wearing were calculated using random effects models and generalised linear models.

RESULTS: We included 448 studies from 70 countries/regions. During the VRID pandemics/epidemics, global pooled rates for the acceptability of mask-wearing, mask-wearing in public settings and correct mask-wearing were 65.27% (95% CI 60.34% to 70.05%), 74.67% (95% CI 69.17% to 79.8%) and 63.63% (95% CI 59.28% to 67.87%), respectively. In individuals with chronic diseases/elderly/pregnant women, the rates of acceptability (42.54%) and correct mask-wearing (60.56%) were both low. Among the general population, the rates of mask-wearing in public settings (68.2%) and correct mask-wearing (57.45%) were the lowest. During the COVID-19 pandemic, countries with a requirement for mask-wearing exhibited a higher rate in public settings (76.10% vs 58.32%), especially in regions with more stringent containment and health measures (β=0.86, p=0.008). The mask-wearing in public settings has been found to significantly reduce the COVID-19 incidence (β=-265.26, p=0.004), COVID-19 deaths (β=-2.04, p<0.001) and other COVID-19 pandemic-related deaths (β=-0.83, p<0.001).

CONCLUSION: During the VRID pandemics/epidemics, adherence to mask-wearing was relatively low. Implementing policies requiring mask-wearing during the pandemic could enhance the mask-wearing rate, potentially leading to a significant reduction in VRID-related incidence and deaths.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024496464.},
}

Humans
*Masks
*COVID-19/mortality/epidemiology/prevention & control
Incidence
SARS-CoV-2
Respiratory Tract Infections/mortality/epidemiology
Pandemics
Patient Compliance
Global Health

@article {pmid39971398,
year = {2025},
author = {Maessen, L and Boers, LS and Heylen, J and van Someren Gréve, F and Wauters, J and Bos, LDJ and Feys, S},
title = {Viral reactivations and fungal infections in nonresolving acute respiratory distress syndrome.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {34},
number = {175},
pages = {},
pmid = {39971398},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/microbiology/virology/diagnosis/therapy/immunology/physiopathology ; *COVID-19/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Virus Activation ; Pandemics ; Pneumonia, Viral/virology/complications/immunology/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Coronavirus Infections/virology/diagnosis/epidemiology/complications/immunology/therapy ; Risk Factors ; Betacoronavirus ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; },
abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a condition affecting 10% of patients requiring admission to the intensive care unit and results from endothelial dysfunction, alveolar epithelial injury and unbalanced inflammation, leading to exudative pulmonary oedema. A significant portion of these patients experience a lung injury that fails to resolve. Persistent or worsening respiratory failure beyond 5 days after the initiation of mechanical ventilation is referred to as nonresolving ARDS. Viral and fungal pathogens can exploit the hyperinflammatory environment and altered immune landscape in ARDS, perpetuating a cycle of ongoing inflammation and lung injury, thereby contributing to the progression towards and persistence of nonresolving ARDS, even in previously immunocompetent patients. This review discusses the significance, pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges and key knowledge gaps concerning various viral and fungal pathogens in nonresolving ARDS, with a particular focus on influenza-associated and COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis and pulmonary reactivation of Herpesviridae, such as cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus. Diagnosing these infections is challenging due to their nonspecific clinical presentation and the inability of current tests to distinguish between fungal colonisation or asymptomatic viral shedding and clinically significant infections or reactivations. A deeper understanding of the complex interplay between these pathogens and the host immune system in the context of ARDS, combined with advances in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, has the potential to enhance the management and prognosis of patients with nonresolving ARDS.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/microbiology/virology/diagnosis/therapy/immunology/physiopathology
*COVID-19/complications
*SARS-CoV-2
Virus Activation
Pandemics
Pneumonia, Viral/virology/complications/immunology/epidemiology/diagnosis
Coronavirus Infections/virology/diagnosis/epidemiology/complications/immunology/therapy
Risk Factors
Betacoronavirus
Host-Pathogen Interactions

@article {pmid39971395,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhou, G and Dael, N and Verweij, S and Balafas, S and Mubarik, S and Oude Rengerink, K and Pasmooij, AMG and van Baarle, D and Mol, PGM and de Bock, GH and Hak, E},
title = {Effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe outcomes in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of European studies published up to 22 January 2024.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {34},
number = {175},
pages = {},
pmid = {39971395},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Europe/epidemiology ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; Adult ; Time Factors ; Severity of Illness Index ; Treatment Outcome ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Up-to-date evidence from European studies on long-term vaccine effectiveness (VE) of COVID-19 vaccines is lacking. This review aimed to evaluate effectiveness and durability of primary vaccine series and boosters in preventing infection and severe outcomes in the European population.

METHODS: We conducted systematic searches of PubMed and Embase up to 22 January 2024. We included observational studies that evaluated VE against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection or severe disease (hospitalisation, intensive care unit admission or death) for primary series and boosters in Europe. We applied a random-effects meta-analysis model.

RESULTS: We included 33 studies and over 56 million participants. The overall VE of the complete primary series against infection with any SARS-CoV-2 variant was 70.7%. VE was lower for Omicron, at 26.1%, than for pre-Omicron strains, at 77.0%. Over time, VE against infection by any variant decreased from 68.9% to 38.9% after 6 months. Boosters restored VE to 76.4% and maintained at 58.4% after 3 months. The overall VE of a complete primary series for severe outcomes due to any variant was 87.4%, with 93.3% for pre-Omicron and 62.8% for Omicron strains. Protection against severe outcomes declined less than for infection. 6 months after the primary series, the vaccine still provided over 50% protection against severe outcomes caused by Omicron. Boosters restored VE to 87.9% and maintained at 78.5% after 3 months.

CONCLUSION: VE against SARS-CoV-2 infection declines markedly with time and Omicron variants. Protection against severe outcomes was more durable and resistant to viral mutation. Boosters restored protection, emphasising the need for timely booster vaccination for vulnerable populations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Europe/epidemiology
*Vaccine Efficacy
Adult
Time Factors
Severity of Illness Index
Treatment Outcome
Middle Aged

@article {pmid39969988,
year = {2025},
author = {Potter, A and Munsch, C and Watson, E and Hopkins, E and Kitromili, S and O'Neill, IC and Larbie, J and Niittymaki, E and Ramsay, C and Burke, J and Ralph, N},
title = {Identifying Research Priorities in Digital Education for Health Care: Umbrella Review and Modified Delphi Method Study.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e66157},
doi = {10.2196/66157},
pmid = {39969988},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {*Delphi Technique ; Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Education, Distance/methods ; Health Personnel/education ; Research ; Digital Technology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In recent years, the use of digital technology in the education of health care professionals has surged, partly driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is still a need for focused research to establish evidence of its effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to define the gaps in the evidence for the efficacy of digital education and to identify priority areas where future research has the potential to contribute to our understanding and use of digital education.

METHODS: We used a 2-stage approach to identify research priorities. First, an umbrella review of the recent literature (published between 2020 and 2023) was performed to identify and build on existing work. Second, expert consensus on the priority research questions was obtained using a modified Delphi method.

RESULTS: A total of 8857 potentially relevant papers were identified. Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology, we included 217 papers for full review. All papers were either systematic reviews or meta-analyses. A total of 151 research recommendations were extracted from the 217 papers. These were analyzed, recategorized, and consolidated to create a final list of 63 questions. From these, a modified Delphi process with 42 experts was used to produce the top-five rated research priorities: (1) How do we measure the learning transfer from digital education into the clinical setting? (2) How can we optimize the use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning to facilitate education and training? (3) What are the methodological requirements for high-quality rigorous studies assessing the outcomes of digital health education? (4) How does the design of digital education interventions (eg, format and modality) in health professionals' education and training curriculum affect learning outcomes? and (5) How should learning outcomes in the field of health professions' digital education be defined and standardized?

CONCLUSIONS: This review provides a prioritized list of research gaps in digital education in health care, which will be of use to researchers, educators, education providers, and funding agencies. Additional proposals are discussed regarding the next steps needed to advance this agenda, aiming to promote meaningful and practical research on the use of digital technologies and drive excellence in health care education.},
}

*Delphi Technique
Humans
*COVID-19
Education, Distance/methods
Health Personnel/education
Research
Digital Technology

@article {pmid39969547,
year = {2025},
author = {Rieck, T and Rau, C and Wulkotte, E and Feig, M and Fischer, C and Wichmann, O and Steffen, A},
title = {[Monitoring vaccination coverage in Germany-current status and trends].},
journal = {Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39969547},
issn = {1437-1588},
abstract = {Timely and reliable data on the vaccination status of the population are essential for the evaluation of vaccination programs. The analysis of school entry examination data and health claims data from the Associations of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians is the basis for monitoring the vaccination coverage in Germany. These two established and effective systems are supplemented by surveys among special target groups that can provide data on vaccination coverage, acceptance, and intention to be vaccinated.With the data from school entry examinations and health claims, vaccination coverage can only be reported with a delay of 1-2 years. Furthermore, the health claims data are incomplete due to the increasing diversification of vaccination service providers. The need for a complete and timely monitoring of the vaccination coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic revealed the limitations of these systems in an emergency situation. Therefore, the temporary Digital Immunization Monitoring (DIM) system for collecting COVID-19 vaccination data was established. With DIM, it was possible to collect COVID-19 vaccination data from all vaccination service providers on a daily basis.With the vision of timely and complete monitoring of vaccination coverage, the integration of vaccination data collection into the German Electronic Reporting and Information System for Infection Protection (DEMIS) is being developed as a uniform reporting infrastructure. In the future, DEMIS will be used to collect timely, pseudonymized, and individual-based vaccination data from all vaccination service providers. This will enable the evaluation of vaccination programs with little delay using complete and high-resolution data as well as the rapid adaptation of vaccination recommendations and communication strategies as needed.},
}

@article {pmid39968756,
year = {2025},
author = {Ng, WL and Wang, LF},
title = {Translational lessons from the balanced immune system in bats.},
journal = {Disease models & mechanisms},
volume = {18},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1242/dmm.050763},
pmid = {39968756},
issn = {1754-8411},
support = {NRF-CRP10-2012-05//National Research Foundation Singapore/ ; MOH OFIRG19nov-0006//National Medical Research Council/ ; MOE2019-T2-2-130//Ministry of Education - Singapore/ ; },
mesh = {*Chiroptera/immunology/virology ; Animals ; *Immune System ; Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Translational Research, Biomedical ; Disease Reservoirs/virology ; },
abstract = {Bats are a natural reservoir for a wide variety of notorious viruses that are deadly to humans and other mammals but cause no or minimal clinical damage in bats. The co-evolution of bats and viruses for more than sixty million years has established unique and balanced immune defenses within bats against a number of viruses. With the COVID-19 pandemic, bats have gained greater attention as a likely reservoir of the SARS-CoV-2 ancestor virus. The coupling of omics technology and bat research opens an exciting new field to understand and translate discoveries from bats to humans, in the context of infectious disease and beyond. Here, we focus on the mechanism of immunity balance in bats, the application of omics and how this might lead to improvement of human health.},
}

*Chiroptera/immunology/virology
Animals
*Immune System
Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Translational Research, Biomedical
Disease Reservoirs/virology

@article {pmid39968479,
year = {2024},
author = {Nabi, S and Zandieh, Z and Bahadori, F and Bakhshandeh, R and Bagheri, R and Niksolat, M},
title = {Social Problems of Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematized Review.},
journal = {Medical journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran},
volume = {38},
number = {},
pages = {130},
pmid = {39968479},
issn = {1016-1430},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: While the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic devastated the healthcare systems, its consequences have been particularly severe for senior citizens. They have been at higher risk of being physically affected and faced more social and mental problems in the COVID-19 era. During the pandemic, they, more than other age groups, reported a feeling of loneliness, symptoms of depression, and anxiety, and, more than ever, faced ageism, discrimination, and elder abuse. Although many people can overcome social isolation in the light of social media and the internet, the elderly are not digitally literate and welcoming to technology like younger generations. Recognizing the unique needs of older adults must be considered in making health policies.

METHODS: In this systematized review, we collected all studies originally written in English and containing relative information regarding the social problems of older adults during the pandemic in PubMed, Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science (n = 25).

RESULTS: Findings were categorized into 3 main components: (1) body function and body structure, (2) activities and participation, and (3) environmental factors.

CONCLUSION: Social isolation has proven more debilitating for older adults, as they often lack equal access to the internet, nor are they equally welcoming to social media and the internet as younger generations. This negative impact is worse for those with chronic conditions, especially cognitive impairments.},
}

@article {pmid39968147,
year = {2025},
author = {Genovard, F and Muñoz, J and Petchamé, J and Solanellas, F},
title = {Risk management approaches in sports organisations: A scoping review.},
journal = {Heliyon},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {e42270},
pmid = {39968147},
issn = {2405-8440},
abstract = {Risk management has emerged as a critical focus area in sports organisations due to the increasing complexity of operations, governance challenges, and unexpected events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These organisations face a wide range of risks, including financial instability, legal liabilities and operational disruptions, among others. Effective risk management, which involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating potential threats to an organisation's objectives, is critical for ensuring their resilience and long-term sustainability. A comprehensive understanding of the current state of risk management in this context is vital for the development of strategies that address these multifaceted challenges. The objectives of this scoping review are to examine how risk management has been approached in sports organisations, categorize the different types of risks studied in the literature, and identify gaps in knowledge that could inform future research. A carefully structured five-phase methodology was applied: research questions were defined, an extensive literature search was conducted, relevant studies were identified using strict inclusion criteria, data was charted, and the results were summarized. From an initial pool of 3786 articles published between 1980 and 2023, a total of 125 studies were selected for detailed analysis. The findings reveal a broad spectrum of risks explored in the literature, with a significant emphasis on operational challenges. Studies frequently address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, risk categorisation, health and safety protocols, and the competencies needed within sports organisations to effectively manage these risks. Moreover, financial and governance risks are identified as potential gaps in the existing literature, suggesting a need for further exploration and detailed investigation. The review underscores the diversity of methodologies employed, although empirical research, particularly quantitative approaches, remains predominant. In conclusion, this review highlights the need for more multidimensional approaches to risk management that integrate various aspects such as governance, financial stability, and operational efficiency.},
}

@article {pmid39967901,
year = {2024},
author = {Panesar, A and Gharanei, P and Khovanova, N and Young, L and Grammatopoulos, D},
title = {Thyroid function during COVID-19 and post-COVID complications in adults: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1477389},
pmid = {39967901},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Thyroid Gland/physiopathology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Thyroid Diseases/complications/physiopathology ; Adult ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Thyroid Function Tests ; Thyroid Hormones/blood ; Thyroiditis/etiology ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, has presented multifaceted health challenges. COVID-19 primarily targets the respiratory system but also affects multiple organ systems, including the endocrine system. Emerging evidence suggests interactions between thyroid function, the acute phase of COVID-19, and the prolonged symptoms known as post-COVID sequalae or long COVID. Several studies have reported that COVID-19 can induce thyroid dysfunction, leading to conditions such as thyroiditis and alterations in thyroid hormone levels. The mechanisms through which SARS-CoV-2 affects the thyroid include direct viral infection of thyroid cells, leading to viral thyroiditis, which causes inflammation and transient or sustained thyroid dysfunction, as well as an excessive systemic immune response (cytokine storm). This is associated with elevated levels of cytokines, such as IL-6, that disrupt thyroid function and lead to nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS). Medications administered during the acute illness phase, such as corticosteroids and antiviral drugs, can also impact thyroid hormone actions. The involvement of the thyroid gland in long COVID, or postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection, is an area not well defined, with potential implications for understanding and managing this condition. Persistent low-grade inflammation affecting thyroid function over time can lead to ongoing thyroiditis or exacerbate pre-existing thyroid conditions. Viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, can trigger or worsen autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Long COVID may disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which can, in turn, affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, leading to abnormal thyroid function. This review was designed to systematically capture recent literature on COVID-19-related thyroid dysfunction in the adult population, the prognostic consequences of thyroid dysfunction during COVID-19, and the effects of thyroid dysfunction on patients with long COVID. A comprehensive search of PubMed and EMBASE databases was conducted. The systematic review was performed based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). A total of 53 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review summarises recent findings and provides an update of the current understanding of thyroid dysfunction in COVID-19-related spectrum of disorders, underscoring the complex nature of SARS-CoV-2 infection and its far-reaching impacts on human health.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Thyroid Gland/physiopathology
*SARS-CoV-2
Thyroid Diseases/complications/physiopathology
Adult
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Thyroid Function Tests
Thyroid Hormones/blood
Thyroiditis/etiology

@article {pmid39967724,
year = {2025},
author = {Oduwole, OA and Bassey, G and Esebanmen, G and Shoyinka, S and Ohenhen, J and Cogo, E and Henschke, N and Ochodo, E and Meremikwu, MM},
title = {Asymptomatic testing people for SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare facilities: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of public health in Africa},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {581},
pmid = {39967724},
issn = {2038-9922},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Asymptomatic testing involves the process whereby individuals who do not show symptoms of COVID-19 are tested for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection using any of the available laboratory test techniques.

AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of testing asymptomatic individuals visiting, living or working in healthcare facilities in reducing SARS-CoV-2 viral infections.

SETTING: Healthcare databases.

METHOD: Electronic databases were searched and limited to English language and studies published 2020 to 02 September 2022. Following the methods for rapid systematic reviews, data were analysed using a fixed effect model, and results of the effect estimate were reported as odds ratios (OR) with their confidence intervals (CI) (95% CI).

RESULTS: Databases' searches yielded 3065 articles after deduplication and 3 studies by searching reference lists of included articles. After screening abstracts and full text articles, 3 cohort studies were included, each with serious risk of bias. Very low certainty evidence shows a decrease in occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 infections in the asymptomatic testing group among patients going for index surgery (OR: 0.05, 95 % CI: 0.00-0.82; 501 participants; 1 study) and among long term care facility staff (OR: 0.31, 95 % CI: 0.18-0.52; 3457 participants; 2 studies, I [2] = 89%) than the 'no asymptomatic testing' group. However, its effect on their residents was contradictory.

CONCLUSION: There is limited quality evidence to support asymptomatic testing of individuals for SARS-CoV-2 in the prevention of virus transmission in health care settings.

CONTRIBUTION: In the event of a future pandemic, this review offers current evidence on the potential effects of asymptomatic testing.},
}

@article {pmid39967658,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhao, Y and Tang, Y and Wang, QY and Li, J},
title = {Ocular neuroinflammatory response secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection-a review.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1515768},
pmid = {39967658},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *Neuroinflammatory Diseases/immunology/etiology ; Eye Diseases/immunology/virology/etiology ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Eye/immunology/virology ; },
abstract = {With the consistent occurrence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, the prevalence of various ocular complications has increased over time. SARS-CoV-2 infection has been shown to have neurotropism and therefore to lead to not only peripheral inflammatory responses but also neuroinflammation. Because the receptor for SARS-CoV-2, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), can be found in many intraocular tissues, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may also contribute to persistent intraocular neuroinflammation, microcirculation dysfunction and ocular symptoms. Increased awareness of neuroinflammation and future research on interventional strategies for SARS-CoV-2 infection are important for improving long-term outcomes, reducing disease burden, and improving quality of life. Therefore, the aim of this review is to focus on SARS-CoV-2 infection and intraocular neuroinflammation and to discuss current evidence and future perspectives, especially possible connections between conditions and potential treatment strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*Neuroinflammatory Diseases/immunology/etiology
Eye Diseases/immunology/virology/etiology
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Eye/immunology/virology

@article {pmid39967372,
year = {2025},
author = {Chambers, J and Shah, BN and Garbi, M and Campbell, B and Vassiliou, VS and Schlosshan, D},
title = {Management of Echocardiography Requests for the Detection and Follow-Up of Heart Valve Disease: A Consensus Statement From the British Heart Valve Society.},
journal = {Clinical cardiology},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {e70099},
pmid = {39967372},
issn = {1932-8737},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Heart Valve Diseases/diagnostic imaging ; *Echocardiography/methods/standards ; *Consensus ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; Societies, Medical ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Triage/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In the aftermath of the Covid19 pandemic and lockdowns, there has been a growing population awaiting transthoracic echocardiograms for potential valvular heart disease. Conducting comprehensive echocardiograms for all individuals may no longer be practical, leading to substantial delays in obtaining the necessary scans. This paper explores an alternative approach, suggesting the consideration of dedicated and shorter scans specifically for patients suspected of having valvular heart disease.

HYPOTHESIS: To address the increasing waiting times and improve heart valve disease detection, the British Heart Valve Society recommends a tiered approach to echocardiograms.

METHODS: This approach includes basic/level 1, focused, minimum standard, and disease-specific scans. Urgency recommendations vary, with individuals experiencing exertional chest pain or pre-syncope requiring prompt scanning within 2 weeks, ideally at a valve clinic.

RESULTS: Patients without known valve disease but with a murmur and stable breathlessness should be scanned as soon as possible, within a maximum of 6 weeks, balancing local demand and capacity. For those with an asymptomatic murmur and no prior scan, a basic/level 1 study is recommended to triage the necessity for a minimum standard study. Emphasizing appropriate triage for all requests, the statement guides decisions on the necessity for echocardiography, urgency level, and the required scan type.

CONCLUSION: This practical Consensus Statement from the British Heart Valve Society aims to support appropriate shorter transthoracic echocardiography for patients referred for suspected valvular heart disease. The goal is to enhance capacity in a secure manner, thereby minimizing the risks associated with delays in obtaining timely scans.},
}

Humans
*Heart Valve Diseases/diagnostic imaging
*Echocardiography/methods/standards
*Consensus
*COVID-19/epidemiology
United Kingdom/epidemiology
Societies, Medical
SARS-CoV-2
Triage/methods

@article {pmid39965723,
year = {2025},
author = {Foreman, L and Child, B and Saywell, I and Collins-Praino, L and Baetu, I},
title = {Cognitive reserve moderates the effect of COVID-19 on cognition: A systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data.},
journal = {Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews},
volume = {171},
number = {},
pages = {106067},
doi = {10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106067},
pmid = {39965723},
issn = {1873-7528},
abstract = {Elucidating the factors that mitigate the effects of COVID-19 on cognitive function offers important insights for public health policy and intervention. This systematic review and individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis assesses cognitive reserve (CR) as a potential moderator of post-COVID-19 cognitive dysfunction (PCCD). Under PRISMA-IPD guidelines, data searches were conducted via PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Embase, up to January 2023. Eligible studies included at least one cognitive assessment, CR proxy, and disease severity indicator. Of 5604 studies, 87 were eligible (10,950 COVID-19 cases; 78,305 controls), and IPD was obtained for 29 datasets (3919 COVID-19 cases; 8267 controls). Three-level random-effects meta-analyses indicated that CR had a moderate positive association (rsp =.29), and COVID-19 severity had a small negative association (rsp = -.07) with cognitive outcomes. These effects were moderated by a significant within-study interaction. Cognitive deficits following COVID-19 were 33 % smaller among high CR individuals, and 33 % greater among low CR individuals, relative to those with average CR. Population-based initiatives promoting reserve-building behaviors may alleviate the PCCD-related public health burden. REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022360670.},
}

@article {pmid39965005,
year = {2025},
author = {Sentieiro, ML and Cunha Ferreira, L and Pires de Miranda, M and Araújo Vitória, B},
title = {Couples and parenting dynamics during Covid-19 pandemic: A systematic review of the literature.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {2},
pages = {e0315417},
pmid = {39965005},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Parenting/psychology ; *Pandemics ; Female ; Stress, Psychological/epidemiology/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Family Characteristics ; Parents/psychology ; Adaptation, Psychological ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic constituted a public health crisis bound to impact couples, parents, and families globally. However, the literature on the impacts of COVID-19 in families is not yet integrated. This systematic review aims to (1) provide an overview of how the COVID-19 pandemic potentially changed family systems, especially the couples and parenting dynamics, as well as (2) integrate inconsistent findings, and, finally, (3) define new avenues for research and clinical practice. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined for this review. The data was collected in bibliographic databases using a combination of keywords. The study includes empirical research published in English, Spanish, Italian, or Portuguese, appearing in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the functioning of different-gender or same-gender couples, married or cohabitating, or cohabitating parents with children aged 2 to 18, between April 2020 and December 2023. Within 381 articles, 58 studies met the inclusion criteria, which 50 were quantitative, four qualitative, and four mixed methods studies. A qualitative thematic analysis of the reviewed articles identified 12 categories that were organized by stress sources, mediators, and outcomes. There is consistent evidence across the literature showing some sources of stress during COVID-19, such as Gender Inequalities (e.g., Unequal Division of Household Duties and Lack of Support for Mothers), and External Stress. Also, we identified some themes on the mediators such as Coping Strategies (e.g., Dyadic Support, Communication as a Mediator and Adaptation to New Daily Routines) and finally as outcomes, Lower Psychological Well-Being, and Relational Growth. However, some inconsistencies were found in Relationship (In) Satisfaction, Sexual Functioning and Communication as an Outcome. Explorations of moderators showed that these inconsistencies should be understood in reference to (1) quality assessment (2) coping and (3) income. After conducting a comprehensive analysis of inconsistencies, our study revealed no notable differences in either relationship satisfaction or sexual frequency before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Notably, a decline in sexual satisfaction was observed during the COVID-19 period. No conclusive associations were identified between income, relationship satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, sexual frequency, and stress related to COVID-19. Nonetheless, our observations indicated that individuals with moderate or high income, in conjunction with the implementation of effective coping strategies, exhibited a diminished impact of COVID-19-related stress on both relationship satisfaction and sexual functioning. Future studies should focus on a dyadic perspective at various stages of the family cycle, including longitudinal perspectives, as well as studies focused on the role of dyadic coping during times of crises. Findings must be considered with caution because not all studies had equal methodological rigor.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Parenting/psychology
*Pandemics
Female
Stress, Psychological/epidemiology/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Male
Family Characteristics
Parents/psychology
Adaptation, Psychological

@article {pmid39851242,
year = {2025},
author = {Bassetti, M and Giacobbe, DR and Larosa, B and Lamarina, A and Vena, A and Brucci, G},
title = {The reemergence of Streptococcus pyogenes in skin and soft tissue infections: a review of epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management strategies.},
journal = {Current opinion in infectious diseases},
volume = {38},
number = {2},
pages = {114-121},
pmid = {39851242},
issn = {1473-6527},
mesh = {Humans ; *Streptococcus pyogenes/pathogenicity ; *Soft Tissue Infections/microbiology/epidemiology/therapy ; *Streptococcal Infections/epidemiology/microbiology ; COVID-19/epidemiology/microbiology ; Skin Diseases, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology ; Virulence Factors ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To discuss skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) caused by group A Streptococcus (GAS) by focusing on their pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS: GAS is responsible for a wide range of infections from mild disease to severe fatal invasive infections with high mortality rates. Invasive GAS (iGAS) infections affect both young and old individuals and account for 1.8 million cases worldwide, with a mortality rate of up to 20%. In addition, conditions resulting by immune responses triggered by GAS also contribute to GAS-associated morbidity, and should not be overlooked. GAS has the ability to produce a wide set of virulence factors which contribute to its pathogenicity and its ability to colonize different body site and subsequently cause invasive infections. Management of SSTIs caused by GAS is challenging due to the risk of rapid progression and the risk of developing complications.

SUMMARY: During the COVID-19 pandemic, a relevant increase in iGAS infections has been registered. A constantly updated knowledge of the clinical presentation of iGAS infections is thus necessary to reduce their high mortality rates. Proper recognition and treatment of iGAS infections remain crucial.},
}

Humans
*Streptococcus pyogenes/pathogenicity
*Soft Tissue Infections/microbiology/epidemiology/therapy
*Streptococcal Infections/epidemiology/microbiology
COVID-19/epidemiology/microbiology
Skin Diseases, Bacterial/epidemiology/microbiology
Virulence Factors
SARS-CoV-2
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid39705147,
year = {2025},
author = {Ulanova, M},
title = {Health inequalities in respiratory tract infections - beyond COVID-19.},
journal = {Current opinion in infectious diseases},
volume = {38},
number = {2},
pages = {161-168},
pmid = {39705147},
issn = {1473-6527},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology ; Socioeconomic Factors ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Status Disparities ; Health Inequities ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To discuss recent findings on the global burden of respiratory tract infections in underprivileged populations, highlighting the critical role of socioeconomic factors in the incidence and severity of these diseases, with a particular focus on health disparities affecting Indigenous communities.

RECENT FINDINGS: Pulmonary tuberculosis and lower respiratory tract infections, particularly those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), continue to disproportionally impact populations in low-income countries and Indigenous communities worldwide. Indigenous children <5 years old bear the highest global burden of RSV infection, reflecting persistent social inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations. Repeated episodes of acute pneumonia during childhood significantly contribute to the high prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases among Indigenous populations. The widespread occurrence of bronchiectasis in these communities is closely linked to adverse socioeconomic conditions.

SUMMARY: Significant disparities in the incidence and severity of lower respiratory tract infections between affluent and impoverished populations are driven by socioeconomic inequalities. Vaccinating vulnerable population groups with newly developed vaccines has the potential to prevent infections caused by pathogens such as S. pneumoniae and RSV. However, global access to these vaccines and monoclonal antibodies remains limited due to their high costs.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology
Socioeconomic Factors
COVID-19/epidemiology
Incidence
Global Health
SARS-CoV-2
Health Status Disparities
Health Inequities
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology

@article {pmid38247439,
year = {2025},
author = {Krawczyk, A and Kurek, K and Nucera, G and Pruc, M and Swieczkowski, D and Kacprzyk, D and Skrzypek, E and Bragazzi, NL and Safiejko, K and Szarpak, L},
title = {Effect of COVID-19 on the prevalence of bystanders performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Cardiology journal},
volume = {32},
number = {1},
pages = {9-18},
doi = {10.5603/cj.98616},
pmid = {38247439},
issn = {1898-018X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation ; *Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest/therapy/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Prevalence ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The importance of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during out-of-hospital cardiac arrests is especially important in the context of coronavirus disease 2029 (COVID-19) because it can significantly influence survival outcomes. The objective of this meta-analysis was to examine the primary outcomes of bystander CPR during the pandemic and pre-pandemic periods.

METHODS: A search was conducted in the PubMed Central, Scopus, and EMBASE databases, as well as the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials database, up to December 10, 2023. In cases where the value of I² was greater than or equal to 50% or the Q-test indicated that the p-value was less than or equal to 0.05, the studies were considered to be heterogeneous. Sensitivity assessment was performed using the leave-one-out methodology. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO with the ID number CRD42023494912.

RESULTS: Twenty-five articles were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled analysis showed that bystander CPR frequency during the COVID-19 pandemic was 38.8%, compared to 44.8% for the pre-pandemic period (odds ratio: 1.04; 95% confidence interval: 0.93-1.16; p = 0.48).

CONCLUSIONS: The article's conclusions indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic influenced a reduction in bystander CPR compared to the pre-pandemic period, but this difference was not statistically significant. Further research is recommended to understand attitudes, including the fears of witnesses, before performing CPR on patients with suspected or confirmed infectious diseases. The study highlights the importance of bystander intervention in emergency situations and the impact of a pandemic on public health response behaviors.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
*Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest/therapy/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Prevalence
Pandemics

@article {pmid39964267,
year = {2025},
author = {Narayan, AK and Foster, N and Kadom, N and Scott, JA and Flores, EJ and Broder, JC and Yong-Hing, CJ and Daye, D and Kagetsu, NJ and Burstin, H},
title = {Six Steps to Improving Health Equity Using Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Tools.},
journal = {Radiology},
volume = {314},
number = {2},
pages = {e232750},
doi = {10.1148/radiol.232750},
pmid = {39964267},
issn = {1527-1315},
mesh = {Humans ; *Quality Improvement ; *Health Equity ; *Patient Safety/standards ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Diagnostic Imaging/standards ; Healthcare Disparities ; Total Quality Management ; },
abstract = {Health equity is a foundational principle for providing high-quality care. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the urgency of health systems and regulatory agencies to address longstanding health disparities. Imaging disparities have been documented in the imaging literature for decades, but there is paucity of published interventions to successfully reduce disparities in imaging. Quality and safety approaches can be successfully employed to catalyze and rigorously evaluate interventions to reduce imaging disparities. Emerging from the Toyota Production System, the lean management framework focuses on continuous quality improvement to improve efficiency and reduce waste. Lean approaches have been successfully adopted by quality and safety experts in health care for problem-solving and process improvement. This article provides readers with step-by-step guidance on how to address health equity issues by adapting selected lean tools for quality improvement and patient safety. Core steps include (a) problem identification, (b) team building, (c) creation of a data infrastructure, (d) problem analysis, (e) development and testing of solutions, and (f) change management strategies to help organizations sustain successful health equity initiatives. Readers can use these six core steps to catalyze data-driven quality improvement initiatives to reduce imaging disparities within their health systems.},
}

Humans
*Quality Improvement
*Health Equity
*Patient Safety/standards
*COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Diagnostic Imaging/standards
Healthcare Disparities
Total Quality Management

@article {pmid39963502,
year = {2025},
author = {Ding, X and Lu, D and Wei, R and Zhu, F},
title = {Knowledge mapping of online healthcare: An interdisciplinary visual analysis using VOSviewer and CiteSpace.},
journal = {Digital health},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {20552076251320761},
pmid = {39963502},
issn = {2055-2076},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Online healthcare has been regarded as a permanent component and complementation in routine worldwide healthcare. Although there have been large-scale related studies in this field, studies are scattered across disciplines. Numerous publications are needed to systematically and comprehensively identify the status quo, development, and future hotspots in this field.

METHODS: Publications on online healthcare were screened from the WoS database. By using VOSviewer and CiteSpace, this study analyzed 4636 articles in this field with 60,306 associated references. First, countries/regions distributions, institutions distributions, influential journals, and productive authors were obtained. Then, co-citation analysis, co-occurrence analysis, timeline analysis, and burst detection were further conducted to sketch the panorama of online healthcare.

RESULTS: There were 147 countries/regions participated in and contributed to this field in total. Accounting for over half of the total number of publications, the USA, England, Australia, China, and Canada played significant roles in this area. Among the 24,362 authors, Guo XT was the most influential author. The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health was the journal with the most publications and citations. Studies in this field have shifted from basic research to applied practice research. COVID-19, mental health, healthcare, and healthcare workers were the most common keywords, indicating that studies on the impact of online healthcare on healthcare workers, online healthcare service for COVID-19, and mental health will be promising areas in the future.

CONCLUSIONS: Research on online healthcare is booming, while worldwide cooperation is still regionalized. Cross-regional cooperation among institutions and scholars is needed to enhance in the future. Online healthcare services for specific health fields and specific groups are the current and developing topics in this field.},
}

@article {pmid39962909,
year = {2025},
author = {Taşkoparan, Ş and Altınay, C and Barbaros Özer, H},
title = {Recent updates of probiotic dairy-based beverages.},
journal = {Food & function},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d4fo06322h},
pmid = {39962909},
issn = {2042-650X},
abstract = {There is a rapid paradigm shift in the food consumption habits of consumers globally. The interest in healthier, safer, minimally processed and nature-identical foods is the driving force of this paradigm shift. Although the roots of this consumer trend go back further, especially the Covid-19 pandemic has contributed to the acceleration of this process. The effects of probiotics on human health have been known for many years. The commercial success of some probiotic microorganism strains, supported by clinical studies, is also evident. Probiotic microorganisms can be found in commercial products in a wide range of forms including powder, tablets or incorporated into liquid or solid food matrices. Milk and dairy products are suitable vehicles for the delivery of probiotics into the human body. Apart from well-established dairy-based probiotic foods including yogurt and yogurt-type beverages, in recent years some dairy products supplemented or enhanced with postbiotics and paraprobiotics are gaining popularity. The incorporation of next-generation probiotics in probiotic beverage formulations has also attracted the attention of researchers. The current state-of-the art for the utilization of next-generation probiotics, postbiotics and paraprobiotics in dairy-based probiotic beverages is the main focus of this review. Conventional milk-, whey- and buttermilk-based probiotic beverages are also covered.},
}

@article {pmid39961996,
year = {2025},
author = {G Gürtler, L and Schramm, W and Seitz, R},
title = {Viral sepsis - pathophysiology and disease manifestation.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39961996},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {Viral infection is found in approximately 30% of all sepsis cases and may be followed by bacterial infection in organs such as the lungs. Sepsis manifests as fever, hemorrhagic lesions and cell death. Organ dysfunction caused by sepsis, such as meningitis and encephalitis, can lead to organ damage. Sepsis is induced by various viral components, host cells and cellular mediators, such as cytokines and chemokines. Cytokines are secreted from stimulated macrophages, monocytes, dendritic cells and T lymphocytes.Further contributors to sepsis are the cleavage products after activation of the complement cascade with anaphylatoxin generation and peptides of the activated clotting cascade, thrombocytopenia and thrombocyte function alteration, intravasal clotting and/or endothelial leakage. The cells involved in viral sepsis are neutrophil granulocytes, monocytes and macrophages, dendritic cells and thrombocytes, and finally, endothelial cells and epithelial cells.Prolonged cytokine release leads to cell damage, immune cell dysfunction and exhaustion, and either impairs or hyperactivates immune cells. The course of viral sepsis may be enhanced by some patient conditions including age, underlying diseases such as diabetes, obesity; and immunodeficiency. Viral sepsis, similar to bacterial sepsis, is an extremely complex disorder, and the involvement of the abovementioned cellular and humoral components can present quite divergent biological and clinical patterns.Examples of viral sepsis discussed in the manuscript include three viruses causing Dengue fever - an emerging infection, COVID-19 - a disease with a prolonged course, Ebola disease - a disease with typically complete viral clearance, while rabies virus - induces a disease that causes coma and death before signs of viral sepsis are apparent.},
}

@article {pmid39961818,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, A and Lopez-Rippe, J and Reid, J},
title = {Technology, connection, and engagement-achieving a balance for maximal value hybrid conferences in radiology.},
journal = {Pediatric radiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {39961818},
issn = {1432-1998},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a transformation in medical education, leading to the emergence of hybrid learning formats that combine in-person and remote participation. While this format offers increased flexibility and accessibility, it presents unique challenges for both educators and learners in radiology training programs.

METHODS: This review examines the critical elements necessary for successful hybrid resident and fellow conferences in radiology education, focusing on three key domains: technology, connection, and engagement.

RESULTS: Technical considerations, including appropriate audiovisual setup and the designation of conference moderators, are crucial for seamless integration of remote participants. Digital tools such as audience response systems, web-based DICOM viewers, and collaborative platforms can enhance interactivity and simulate clinical practice effectively in the hybrid format. Creating an effective learning environment requires careful attention to establishing expectations, maintaining psychological safety, and ensuring equal participation between in-person and remote attendees. Active learning strategies, such as case-based discussions, buzz groups, and peer instruction, can be adapted to include both remote and in-person learners effectively.

CONCLUSION: While the flexibility of hybrid education offers advantages for work-life balance and accessibility, maintaining educational quality requires thoughtful implementation of these strategies. As hybrid conferences become a permanent fixture in radiology education, programs must address these challenges to optimize the learning experience for all participants while preserving the essential elements of traditional radiology training.},
}

@article {pmid39961554,
year = {2025},
author = {Catalán-Aguilar, J and González-Bono, E and Cano-López, I},
title = {Perceived stress in adults with epilepsy: A systematic review.},
journal = {Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews},
volume = {170},
number = {},
pages = {106065},
doi = {10.1016/j.neubiorev.2025.106065},
pmid = {39961554},
issn = {1873-7528},
mesh = {Humans ; *Epilepsy/psychology ; *Stress, Psychological ; Adult ; COVID-19/complications/psychology ; Adaptation, Psychological/physiology ; },
abstract = {This systematic review summarizes evidence about perceived stress in adults with epilepsy to clarify the particularities and potential effects on the prognosis and consequences of the disease. This review follows the recommendations of the PRISMA statement and was registered in PROSPERO. Thirty-four articles were selected. In 89 % of the studies, stress in epilepsy was conceptualized as a process in which the demands of the environment exceed the organism's ability to cope. Stressful life events related to perceived stress in epilepsy included the COVID-19 pandemic and work-related problems. Perceived stress was identified as a seizure precipitant in 85 % of studies. In 67 % of studies, patients with epilepsy had higher perceived stress than healthy people. Female gender, youth, low educational levels, unemployment, poor social support, less than five years suffering the disorder, temporal lobe epilepsy, depression, poor seizure control, and polytherapy were identified as risk factors for increased stress. These studies highlight the need for the conceptualization of epilepsy within a chronic stress framework which could facilitate more appropriate clinical management.},
}

Humans
*Epilepsy/psychology
*Stress, Psychological
Adult
COVID-19/complications/psychology
Adaptation, Psychological/physiology

@article {pmid39961234,
year = {2025},
author = {Amarrador, A and Crilly Oam, J and Brough, P and Elder, E},
title = {Interventions to retain emergency department nurses: A scoping review.},
journal = {International emergency nursing},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {101573},
doi = {10.1016/j.ienj.2025.101573},
pmid = {39961234},
issn = {1878-013X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Globally, the nursing workforce is facing significant shortages, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Emergency departments (ED) are dynamic environments that expose nurses to high levels of stress. Retention of existing nurses is vital, however the efficacy of interventions to improve the retention of ED nurses is limited. This review aimed to explore the evidence surrounding interventions focussed on addressing the retention of ED nurses.

METHOD: A scoping review of the literature was undertaken, guided by the Joanna Briggs Institute framework. A search of five electronic databases was conducted. Original research published between 2012 and 2023 regarding the population of nurses, the concept of interventions to decrease turnover/improve retention and the context of the emergency department were considered for inclusion.

RESULTS: Five articles met the criteria for inclusion; three evaluated educational programs to ease the transition to becoming ED nurses, two assessed locally developed 'ad hoc' interventions. All the transitional education programs reported an increase in retention rates, while the ad hoc interventions produced minimal to no improvement in retention or reduction of turnover intent. All studies were conducted in high-income countries.

CONCLUSION: There is a dearth of evidence for organisations to draw upon to increase the retention of ED nurses. Additional research is warranted, especially regarding the long-term effects of interventions aimed at improving ED nurse retention, as well as evaluating interventions implemented in a wider variety of contexts.},
}