@article {pmid40749193,
year = {2025},
author = {Agarwal, G and Singh, MM and Jan, R and Purohit, SD},
title = {Nonlinear Dynamics and Stability Analysis of a Pandemic Model Using Homotopy Perturbation.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biomedical engineering},
volume = {53},
number = {3},
pages = {13-21},
doi = {10.1615/CritRevBiomedEng.2025055055},
pmid = {40749193},
issn = {1943-619X},
mesh = {*Nonlinear Dynamics ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Computer Simulation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Models, Biological ; Algorithms ; },
abstract = {In this paper, we gave the numerical solution of the various population categories of susceptible, exposed, infected, and recovered (SEIR) mathematical models by using homotopy perturbation method, which is a technique that combines the perturbation and homotopy methods to solve nonlinear problems. Also, we discuss the susceptible population category and explore the graphical solution of all populations (SEIR) using the parameters α and β for both fractional and integer order. In the end, the stability analysis is also shown in the population graphs.},
}

*Nonlinear Dynamics
Humans
*Pandemics
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Computer Simulation
SARS-CoV-2
*Models, Biological
Algorithms

@article {pmid40748111,
year = {2025},
author = {Frey, J},
title = {Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders.},
journal = {Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.)},
volume = {31},
number = {4},
pages = {1120-1151},
doi = {10.1212/cont.0000000000001595},
pmid = {40748111},
issn = {1538-6899},
mesh = {Humans ; *Tourette Syndrome/therapy/diagnosis/physiopathology ; *Tic Disorders/therapy/diagnosis/physiopathology ; Male ; Female ; Behavior Therapy/methods ; Deep Brain Stimulation/methods ; Adult ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This article describes the clinical features of Tourette syndrome and its diagnostic criteria, etiology, and pathophysiology, as well as common myths associated with tic disorders. It discusses the behavioral, pharmacologic, neuromodulation, and alternative treatment approaches to tic disorders.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS: With the significant increase in functional ticlike behavior, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, diagnostic criteria for functional ticlike behavior have been delineated to separate these ticlike movements from the tics observed in Tourette syndrome. Although behavioral therapy such as comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics remains the first-line treatment for tics, modifications to comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics have been developed to make this type of treatment more accessible. Pharmacologic trials for vesicular monoamine transporter 2 inhibitors have failed to meet the primary endpoint of tic reduction; however, they may still be helpful as add-on therapy for select individuals. A first-in-class compound called ecopipam met the primary endpoint for tic reduction and was well-tolerated, and may be a promising new treatment for Tourette syndrome. Deep brain stimulation may be considered for tics refractory to more conservative approaches.

ESSENTIAL POINTS: Tourette syndrome and tic disorders can substantially affect quality of life. Educating patients about the natural history and expected course of the disease is the most important first step in management. Choosing a treatment based on comorbidities, tic severity, and patient preference is crucial for a beneficial outcome.},
}

Humans
*Tourette Syndrome/therapy/diagnosis/physiopathology
*Tic Disorders/therapy/diagnosis/physiopathology
Male
Female
Behavior Therapy/methods
Deep Brain Stimulation/methods
Adult

@article {pmid39532557,
year = {2025},
author = {Burlacu, R and Bourdin, V and Blin, P and Camaioni, F and Clairaz, B and Lantéri-Minet, M and Laroche, F and Raineri, F and Perrot, S and Stahl, JP and Thurin, NH and Mouly, S},
title = {[Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications: Focus on the management of acute pain].},
journal = {Therapie},
volume = {80},
number = {4},
pages = {449-468},
doi = {10.1016/j.therap.2024.10.061},
pmid = {39532557},
issn = {1958-5578},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Nonprescription Drugs/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Acute Pain/drug therapy ; France ; COVID-19/complications ; *Pain Management/methods ; Pharmacists ; },
abstract = {Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the second most widely used class of analgesics in France, after paracetamol. Some NSAIDs are available over the counter (OTC), without a prescription, on the advice of a pharmacist. NSAIDs have recently been the subject of safety alerts from France's Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé (ANSM), highlighting a risk of worsening certain bacterial infections. This signal has not been confirmed by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) although a "risk of complications due to masking of symptoms of infection" has not been ruled out. These divergent messages can be confusing for healthcare professionals. This literature review, based on an analysis of nearly 200 scientific publications, considers the place of NSAIDs in the OTC management of migraine, tension headaches, postoperative analgesia, acute musculoskeletal and joint pain, dysmenorrhea, viral respiratory infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and their toxicity. The role of the pharmacist in dispensing NSAIDs without a prescription is also addressed. NSAIDs offer rapid and effective pain management in a context of increasingly challenging access to care. Their safety profile is reassuring and generally well established but could be strengthened by conducting an ad hoc study to rule on the safety signal issued by the ANSM definitively. Pharmacists have the knowledge and tools to ensure the safe dispensing and rational use of NSAIDs, with or without a prescription. The introduction of risk minimization measures, such as decision-support tools, could enable further progress in ensuring the safe dispensing of OTC NSAIDs.},
}

Humans
*Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Nonprescription Drugs/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Acute Pain/drug therapy
France
COVID-19/complications
*Pain Management/methods
Pharmacists

@article {pmid40748057,
year = {2025},
author = {Foley, DA and Smith, DW and Barr, I and Moore, HC and Nicol, M and Blyth, CC},
title = {Determinants of respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus transmission.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0020324},
doi = {10.1128/cmr.00203-24},
pmid = {40748057},
issn = {1098-6618},
abstract = {SUMMARYRespiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus are major causes of respiratory illness globally, particularly affecting children and older adults. Despite their clinical significance, substantial gaps persist in understanding the determinants of their transmission. This review examines the multifaceted factors shaping RSV and hMPV transmission, including viral structure and evolution, host behaviors and viral shedding dynamics, the influence of environmental conditions on viral survival, the roles of population- and community-level transmission networks, and the impact of SARS-CoV-2. Additionally, we explore prevention strategies, including immunizations and non-pharmaceutical interventions, to reduce transmission in high-risk settings.},
}

@article {pmid40747829,
year = {2025},
author = {Kakehbaraei, S and Arab-Zozani, M and Kakebaraei, S},
title = {Emerging trends in viral infection inhibition using a chitosan-based drug delivery system.},
journal = {Journal of drug targeting},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-16},
doi = {10.1080/1061186X.2025.2540858},
pmid = {40747829},
issn = {1029-2330},
abstract = {Viral diseases damage the host's cells and weaken the host's immunity, leading to multiple relapses or lasting a long time. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a prevalent infection that can cause immunostimulation, serious medical complications or even promote the risk of side effects and fatality, especially among older adults. Due to the replication process of the viral genome, it is significant to design and develop new pharmaceuticals to alleviate the illness and global death rates attributed to infection. Chitosan, a versatile biopolymer derived from natural sources, possesses cationic properties and has been employed to produce nanoparticles (NPs). These NPs exhibit biocompatibility, biodegradability, antimicrobial and anticancer properties, non-toxicity, ready availability, and the ability to function as drug delivery systems (DDSs). The physicochemical attributes of chitosan and its NPs in the transfer of bioactive agents are detected in nanotechnology, which can enhance anti-viral efficacy. This review highlights progressions in nanoscience for chitosan-based drug delivery in treating viral diseases. New research is expected to suggest new strategies in the field of DDS for the therapeutics of infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid40747640,
year = {2025},
author = {DeVuono, IR and Posa, S and Lafond, NMC and Woodley, BD and Coroiu, A and Chaiton, MO and Evans, WK and Veldhuizen, S and Zawertailo, LA and Melamed, OC and Eng, L and George, MM and Halligan, MH and Silverman, CB and Stewart, A and Krames, L and Bradley, M and Hussain, S and Selby, P and Minian, N},
title = {Exploring Practices for Implementing Smoking Cessation in Oncology Settings: A Rapid Systematic Review Update.},
journal = {Cancer control : journal of the Moffitt Cancer Center},
volume = {32},
number = {},
pages = {10732748251359835},
doi = {10.1177/10732748251359835},
pmid = {40747640},
issn = {1526-2359},
mesh = {Humans ; *Smoking Cessation/methods/statistics & numerical data ; *Neoplasms/therapy ; *Medical Oncology/methods ; Ontario ; },
abstract = {IntroductionSmoking cessation among individuals with cancer increases the effectiveness of cancer treatments and reduces the risks of death. However, individuals receiving cancer treatments in Ontario's 14 regional cancer centres are provided advice on the benefits of quitting smoking and referrals to smoking cessation treatments at different rates. This rapid systematic review was conducted, with funding from the Canadian Cancer Society, to update a published systematic review (Young et al, 2023) and to (1) identify implementation strategies and related implementation outcomes used in oncology settings; (2) describe the characteristics of these implementation strategies and implementation outcomes; and (3) determine whether specific implementation strategies are associated with increased smoking cessation efforts, referred to as the 3As (Ask, Advise, and Act) approach to smoking cessation.MethodsThis rapid systematic review was registered in The International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number CRD42023491391). Three databases were searched for relevant studies: MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library. The quality of included studies was assessed based on their study design and narrative synthesis was used to summarize the data extracted.Results3158 studies were found, and eighteen new studies met our inclusion criteria. All eighteen studies had a low to moderate risk of bias. The implementation strategies training and educating stakeholders, using evaluative and iterative strategies, providing interactive assistance, supporting clinicians, and developing stakeholder interrelationships were associated with increased asking, advising, and acting, although these associations do not imply causality. Only 5 studies measured implementation outcomes; however, heterogeneity in the measurement tools used prevented analysis.ConclusionAlthough abundant data on implementation strategies was found, implementation outcomes were sparse and connections between the implementation strategies and implementation outcomes could not be drawn. Future studies should pilot the implementation strategies associated with increased asking, advising, and acting, and measure their success, considering both implementation strategies and implementation outcomes, as this information is lacking in the current literature.},
}

Humans
*Smoking Cessation/methods/statistics & numerical data
*Neoplasms/therapy
*Medical Oncology/methods
Ontario

@article {pmid40746857,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, T and Zhang, L and Ma, X and Song, W},
title = {The tiny giants of regeneration: MSC-derived extracellular vesicles as next-generation therapeutics.},
journal = {Frontiers in cell and developmental biology},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1612589},
pmid = {40746857},
issn = {2296-634X},
abstract = {Mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) are revolutionizing the field of regenerative medicine, becoming the core carriers of next-generation acellular therapeutic strategies. In contrast to traditional mesenchymal stem cell therapy, these nanoscale "regenerative tiny giants" offer significant advantages, including low immunogenicity, efficient biological barrier penetration, and stable storage. As natural bioactive molecular carriers, MSC-EVs precisely regulate the inflammatory response, angiogenesis, and tissue repair processes in target tissues by delivering functional RNA, proteins, and other signaling elements. They have demonstrated multidimensional therapeutic potential in diseases such as bone and joint regeneration, nerve function reconstruction, myocardial repair, and skin wound healing. Worldwide, 64 registered clinical trials have preliminarily validated the safety and applicability of MSC-EVs across various diseases. Notably, they have shown significant progress in treating severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), ischemic stroke, and complex wound healing. However, the lack of standardization in production processes, insufficient targeting for in vivo delivery, and the scarcity of long-term biodistribution data remain core bottlenecks limiting the clinical translation of MSC-EVs. Future interdisciplinary technologies, including 3-dimensional (3D) dynamic culture, genetic engineering, and intelligent slow-release systems, are expected to facilitate the transition of MSC-EVs from the lab to large-scale applications. This shift may transform "injectable regenerative factors" into "programmable nanomedicines", offering new solutions for precision medicine.},
}

@article {pmid40745633,
year = {2025},
author = {Sales, TLS and Pereira, DN and Gomes, VMR and de Aguiar, GG and Marcolino, MS},
title = {Efficacy of tenofovir on clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {965},
pmid = {40745633},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *Tenofovir/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; COVID-19/mortality ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pharmacological treatments for COVID-19 remain limited, particularly for severe outcomes. Tenofovir, an inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), has been proposed as a therapeutic agent to reduce hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admissions, and mortality.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of tenofovir in COVID-19 patients based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS: A systematic review of RCTs assessing tenofovir in COVID-19 was conducted. Searches in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, LILACS, SciELO, and COVID-19 LOVE databases were last updated on April 16, 2025. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool. As a meta-analysis was not feasible, a qualitative analysis was performed. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023465336).

RESULTS: Among 1241 retrieved trials, three met the inclusion criteria. These trials, conducted in 32 hospitals across Colombia, Spain and Iran included 1048 patients. In the Colombian study, the combination of tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine with colchicine and rosuvastatin was associated with reduced 28-day mortality (risk difference [RD] = -0.05; 95% CI: -0.07 to -0.04) and lower need for invasive mechanical ventilation (RD = -0.08; 95% CI: -0.11 to -0.04). However, randomization bias and small sample size limit the interpretation of these results. Conversely, the Spanish study was classified as having a low risk of bias, but found no significant benefit of tenofovir disoproxil/emtricitabine in reducing 28-day mortality (risk ratio [RR] = 1.76; 95% CI: 0.52 to 5.91) or for the composite outcome of ICU admission, disease progression, and mortality (RR = 0.95; 95% CI: 0.66 to 1.40). The Iranian study, in turn, demonstrated that tenofovir alafenamide, when combined with standard treatment, significantly reduced the need for mechanical ventilation (0.0% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.038) and ICU length of stay (3.3 days vs. 14.5 days; p = 0.04). However, the presence of a high risk of bias, with major concerns regarding co-interventions and statistical analyses, precludes a definitive conclusion regarding these results.

CONCLUSIONS: This review identified three clinical trials evaluating the efficacy of tenofovir in COVID-19, with conflicting results. One study suggested a potential benefit in reducing mortality and the need for invasive mechanical ventilation in mild to moderate cases but methodological limitations, including risk of bias and small sample size, weaken its conclusions. The second study found no significant impact on mortality or disease progression. In the third study, no deaths were reported, but he significant reduction in the need for mechanical ventilation and ICU length of stay is extremely limited due to the high risk of bias. Given these inconsistencies and the limitations of available evidence, tenofovir cannot be recommended for COVID-19 treatment.},
}

Humans
*Tenofovir/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
COVID-19/mortality
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Treatment Outcome
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40398650,
year = {2025},
author = {Targa, ADS and Henríquez-Beltrán, M and Galan-Gonzalez, A and Barbé, F},
title = {Life After COVID-19: Alterations Related to Sleep and Circadian Rhythms.},
journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine},
volume = {46},
number = {2},
pages = {158-169},
doi = {10.1055/a-2591-5627},
pmid = {40398650},
issn = {1098-9048},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Circadian Rhythm/physiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Sleep/physiology ; *Sleep Wake Disorders/physiopathology/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {World Health Organization (WHO) estimates reveal that over 777 million people were reportedly infected by SARS-CoV-2, with approximately 7 million deaths and 770 million surviving the disease up to April 2025. Beyond the immediate social and economic impact, an additional challenge arises as a large percentage of COVID-19 survivors report a wide range of symptoms after the acute phase, including fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive difficulties, joint and muscle pain, chest pain, heart palpitations, loss of taste or smell, headaches, depression, anxiety, and sleep and circadian alterations. In this chapter, we will specifically address the sleep- and circadian rhythm-related alterations within this context. First, we will focus on sleep-related changes following the acute phase of the disease, detailing their manifestations, prevalence, and associated factors. We will then discuss the potential impact of these sleep-related aspects on the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the severity of COVID-19, and the presence of post-COVID-19 conditions. A similar approach will be applied to address the circadian-related alterations. Finally, we will provide a comprehensive discussion on the overall limitations of available knowledge and its applicability, highlighting the relevance of these findings for the present and future.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Circadian Rhythm/physiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Sleep/physiology
*Sleep Wake Disorders/physiopathology/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid39900109,
year = {2025},
author = {Boira, I and Chiner, E},
title = {Sleep and Respiratory Infections.},
journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine},
volume = {46},
number = {2},
pages = {170-178},
doi = {10.1055/a-2531-1018},
pmid = {39900109},
issn = {1098-9048},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/physiopathology ; *Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/complications/physiopathology ; Risk Factors ; *Sleep Apnea Syndromes/complications/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Sleep disorders that involve circadian rhythm disruption and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are closely linked to respiratory infections. SDB leads to a proinflammatory state due to intermittent hypoxia, sleep fragmentation, increased oxidative stress, and elevation of inflammatory mediators such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Furthermore, inflammatory mediator levels correlate with SDB severity, especially in people with OSA. Nocturnal microaspiration, gastroesophageal reflux, and associated comorbidities (e.g., obesity) increase the risk of community-acquired pneumonia, viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2, respiratory complications, and death. OSA has been associated with post-COVID syndrome. It also increases the risk of postoperative complications in both adults and children. Circadian rhythm disorders such as insomnia predispose to immune disorders and increase the risk of infection. Chronic conditions such as bronchiectasis, with or without concomitant cystic fibrosis, can lead to structural sleep changes and increase the risk of OSA due to chronic cough, arousals, aspirations, hypoxia, upper airway edema, and overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines. The protective effect of treatment for sleep disorders against respiratory infection is currently unknown. However, in people presenting with respiratory infection, it is important to test for SDB to prevent complications.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Respiratory Tract Infections/physiopathology
*Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/complications/physiopathology
Risk Factors
*Sleep Apnea Syndromes/complications/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37553898,
year = {2024},
author = {Ike, RW and McCoy, SS and Kalunian, KC},
title = {What Bedside Skills Could the Modern Rheumatologist Possess? Part I. The Basics.},
journal = {Journal of clinical rheumatology : practical reports on rheumatic & musculoskeletal diseases},
volume = {30},
number = {3},
pages = {117-121},
pmid = {37553898},
issn = {1536-7355},
support = {R03 DE031340/DE/NIDCR NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Rheumatology/methods/standards ; *Physician-Patient Relations ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Clinical Competence ; *Rheumatologists/standards ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The hands-on aspect of rheumatologic practice serves to balance its more cerebral features with the everyday necessity to touch patients to assess their condition, obtain samples for diagnosis, and deliver therapy, all cementing the important bond between patient and physician. Factors over recent years, ranging from the intercession of the electronic medical record to COVID, have weakened this bond, which we must restore if the practice of rheumatology is to return to previous levels of satisfaction. We review herein, in 2 parts, the many ways rheumatologists may interact physically with patients, with hope that pursuit of these measures can enhance satisfaction of physician and patient alike. This first installment reviews those simple skills in place before more involved technical bedside skill began to evolve over the last half century.},
}

Humans
*Rheumatology/methods/standards
*Physician-Patient Relations
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Clinical Competence
*Rheumatologists/standards
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40745248,
year = {2025},
author = {Self, M and Coupland, LA and Aneman, A},
title = {Utility of fibrinolysis enhanced viscoelastic assays to evaluate fibrinolysis disorders in critically ill adults with severe infection: a scoping review.},
journal = {Annals of intensive care},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {110},
doi = {10.1186/s13613-025-01528-x},
pmid = {40745248},
issn = {2110-5820},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acutely infected critically ill patients develop coagulopathies and perturbations to the fibrinolysis system that manifest as immunothrombosis. Whole blood viscoelastic testing, using an exogenous fibrinolytic agent to enhance fibrinolysis (FE-VET) can assess both processes of coagulation and fibrinolysis at the bedside. This scoping review aimed to illustrate clinical applicability, knowledge gaps and unmet needs for this emerging technology.

METHODS: A systematic search of bibliographic databases and the grey literature was performed between the 10th October 2024 and the 14th January 2025 using a pre-published protocol and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guideline for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Studies reporting FE-VET to investigate fibrinolysis in acutely infected patients admitted to the intensive care unit were assessed, including associations with disease severity and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS: The search identified 297 studies with 24 included in this review. Fifteen studies were observational (12 prospective, 3 retrospective), 4 case reports and series, 2 validation studies, 2 letters, and 1 poster abstract. No randomised controlled trials were identified. Most studies used varying concentrations of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) to enhance fibrinolysis, with FE-VET performed at a single time point and the lysis time to achieve 50% reduction of maximum clot firmness being the most frequently reported variable. Fibrinolysis resistance was the prevailing state reported in acute sepsis or COVID-19 infections and associated with increased disease severity and worse clinical outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Viscoelastic testing using a fibrinolysis enhancing agent demonstrated a spectrum of fibrinolysis resistance in acutely infected critically ill patients, associated with increased disease severity and mortality. Standardisation of the concentrations of fibrinolysis enhancing agents and the reporting of clot lysis parameters across testing devices are needed to establish reference values. This would improve future clinical studies of fibrinolysis, including trials of fibrinolytic therapies using a personalised medicine approach.},
}

@article {pmid40744548,
year = {2025},
author = {Casia, PF and Liu, F and Richmond, MM and Adams, C},
title = {The challenges and experiences of New Graduate Registered Nurses (NGRNs) during the Covid-19 pandemic: An integrative review.},
journal = {Applied nursing research : ANR},
volume = {84},
number = {},
pages = {151977},
doi = {10.1016/j.apnr.2025.151977},
pmid = {40744548},
issn = {1532-8201},
mesh = {*COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology ; Humans ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; },
abstract = {AIM: This study aimed to attain a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and experiences of New Graduate Registered Nurses (NGRNs) who cared for patients with COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, NGRNs quickly adapted to demanding clinical roles, showing resilience, initiative, and commitment to growth. Through mentorship and teamwork, they developed stronger professional identities. These experiences, though crisis-driven, underscore the lasting value of flexible training, emotional support, and structured transitions in all healthcare settings.

METHOD: An integrative review method by Whittemore and Knafl (2005).

RESULTS: An initial pool of 836 records was identified, with 22 articles meeting the criteria for review. From these, four main themes and ten subthemes emerged: Pandemic-Specific Conditions Faced by NGRNs - educational/training conditions, working conditions, and physical/psychological conditions; Pandemic-Related Concerns Raised by NGRNs -proficiency/experience concerns and safety concerns; Pandemic-Related Positive Responses by NGRNs - proactivity, staying positive, and advocating for nurses; Pandemic-Related Growth Among NGRNs -professional and personal development and pandemic-fostered commitment and advocacy.

CONCLUSION: The experiences of NGRNs during the pandemic revealed their capacity for resilience, adaptability, and leadership under pressure. Each theme-ranging from proactive learning to advocacy and professional growth-highlights both the challenges faced, and the strengths developed. These insights extend beyond crisis response, offering practical guidance for building supportive, flexible, and future-ready systems that empower NGRNs in both pandemic and non-pandemic healthcare settings.},
}

*COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology
Humans
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Female

@article {pmid40744443,
year = {2025},
author = {Kamra, K and Xia, Z and Zucker, IH and Schultz, H and Wang, HJ},
title = {Chemoreflex function in pulmonary diseases - A review.},
journal = {The Journal of physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1113/JP286655},
pmid = {40744443},
issn = {1469-7793},
support = {R01HL152160-01//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; R01HL171602-01//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; R01HL-169205-01//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; R01HL126796-01//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; R01HL172029-01A1//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; R21 HL170127-01//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; },
abstract = {The chemoreflex is a vital protective reflex that is crucial in restoring normal blood gas and pH levels. The carotid bodies are peripheral chemoreceptors activated by hypoxia (primarily), hypercapnia, acidaemia, temperature, lactate and potassium fluctuations. They are crucial for maintaining physiological conditions based on underlying causes and blood gas abnormalities. Central chemoreceptors in the brain stem are responsive to hypercapnia and contribute to blood gas regulation. Chemoreceptors regained attention during the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, potentially contributing to disease severity. In conditions like chronic intermittent hypoxia, chemoreflex sensitization may lead to respiratory disorders, impacting quality of life. There has been substantial research/evidence linking chemoreflex dysfunction to cardiovascular illnesses such as heart failure and hypertension. However, little emphasis has been placed on the role of the chemoreflex in mediating cardiopulmonary dysfunction during and after pulmonary disorders such as acute lung injury. The current review summarizes recent advances in the study of chemoreflex malfunction and the underlying mechanisms in acute and chronic lung diseases such as COVID-19 infection, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, obstructive sleep apnoea and acute lung injury.},
}

@article {pmid40744021,
year = {2025},
author = {Komaroff, AL and Dantzer, R},
title = {Causes of symptoms and symptom persistence in long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.},
journal = {Cell reports. Medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102259},
doi = {10.1016/j.xcrm.2025.102259},
pmid = {40744021},
issn = {2666-3791},
abstract = {Debilitating symptoms for many years can follow acute COVID-19 ("long COVID"), myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), and various post-acute infection syndromes (PAISs). Together, long COVID and ME/CFS affect 60-400 million individuals, globally. Many similar underlying biological abnormalities have been identified in both conditions including autoantibodies against neural targets, endothelial dysfunction, acquired mitochondrial dysfunction, and a pro-inflammatory gut microbiome. Each of these abnormalities may directly cause some of the symptoms. In addition, the symptoms also may be caused by ancient, evolutionarily conserved symptomatic and metabolic responses to vital threats-sickness behavior and torpor-responses mediated by specific, recently discovered neural circuits. These neural circuits constitute a symptom-generating pathway, activated by neuroinflammation, which may be targeted by therapeutics to quell neuroinflammation. Many factors cause the symptoms to become chronic, including persistent infectious agents (and/or their nucleic acids and antigens) and the fact that many of the underlying biological abnormalities reinforce each other, creating ongoing physiological vicious cycles.},
}

@article {pmid40742669,
year = {2025},
author = {Van Holle, L},
title = {Observed Versus Expected Analysis-How Does It Fit in the Pharmacovigilance Toolkit?.},
journal = {Drug safety},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40742669},
issn = {1179-1942},
abstract = {Observed versus expected (O/E) analyses have been used in an unprecedented scale for the safety monitoring of the COVID-19 mass vaccination. The extent of their usage changed its nature, which consisted of a mixture of medical expertise and epidemiology, into something more algorithmic and automated. By doing so, the observed versus expected analysis became closer to disproportionality analysis (DPA), which is also a type of observed versus expected analysis that differs in the way the expected is calculated. A qualitative assessment of the strengths and limitations of both methods concludes that the algorithmic O/E is more likely to underestimate under-reporting, is more likely to be sensitive to asymmetrical differences in the definition of the condition of interest, and is more dependent on a greater variety of data sources or medical knowledge that might not be accurate for emerging safety issues (exposure, background incidence rate, and risk window). Provided some adjustment (stratification and/or subgrouping) of the routine disproportionality into a targeted disproportionality occurs, which would account for the epidemiological specifics of the vaccine and event-of-interest, the targeted DPA has the potential to be promoted from a signal detection method into a signal evaluation method that could advantageously replace the algorithmic O/E analysis. Research on the setup of a sensitivity analysis framework integrating several standardized choices of disproportionality settings, along with measures (qualitative or quantitative) of the biases for each choice, could be more beneficial for the pharmacovigilance field than studies designed to estimate the background incidence rates of adverse events of special interest for the sole purpose of being used in O/E analyses.},
}

@article {pmid40742623,
year = {2025},
author = {Joshi, A and Gawey, L and Rahman, M and Ghanshani, R and Tran, KA and Friedman, A and Hsiao, JL and Shi, VY},
title = {Factors Influencing Treatment Adherence in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Clinical reviews in allergy & immunology},
volume = {68},
number = {1},
pages = {74},
doi = {10.1007/s12016-025-09092-9},
pmid = {40742623},
issn = {1559-0267},
mesh = {Humans ; *Chronic Urticaria/drug therapy/epidemiology ; Quality of Life ; Omalizumab/therapeutic use ; *Medication Adherence ; },
abstract = {Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is characterized by recurrent wheals and/or angioedema without an identifiable trigger. Despite advances in therapy-including biologics such as omalizumab-suboptimal treatment adherence remains a major challenge, often resulting in poor symptom control and diminished quality of life. The objective of this study is to evaluate the existing literature on adherence in CSU and identify evidence-based strategies for improving long-term treatment engagement. A systematic literature search of PubMed and EMBASE was performed for articles published between 2000 and 2024 using the terms "chronic spontaneous urticaria," "chronic urticaria," "chronic idiopathic urticaria," "compliance," and "adherence." Eligible studies reported original data on adherence-related factors in CSU. Each study was categorized to World Health Organization (WHO) adherence dimensions: social/economic, healthcare system, condition-related, therapy-related, and patient-related. Risk of bias assessment was conducted for each study included in the final selection. The search followed PRISMA guidelines, and the protocol was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024627967). Twenty-one studies (totaling 18,500 patients) met inclusion criteria. Common barriers included lack of preventative medication use, inconvenience, forgetfulness, dissatisfaction with healthcare providers, and logistical challenges in accessing in-office biologic administration. Patients previously treated with immunosuppressants had a poorer response to omalizumab, which may contribute to nonadherence due to perceived lack of efficacy. External factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic also contributed to nonadherence by reducing clinic visits and access to specialist referrals. Higher education level and employment were significantly associated with improved adherence. Proposed strategies include simplifying treatment regimens, enhancing patient education about CSU chronicity, providing telehealth or home medication administration options, and offering financial or social support programs. Multiple interrelated barriers contribute to treatment nonadherence in patients with CSU, underscoring the need for multifaceted, patient-centered interventions. Clear communication, simplified regimens, and supportive resources may enhance adherence and help achieve improved long-term clinical outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Chronic Urticaria/drug therapy/epidemiology
Quality of Life
Omalizumab/therapeutic use
*Medication Adherence

@article {pmid40742497,
year = {2025},
author = {Ul Haq, MZ and Ashraf, S and Shah, MSU and Sulaiman, SA and Shaukat, A and Ansari, MA and Basaria, AAA and Fatima, L and Saeed, H and Goyal, A and Daoud, M},
title = {Efficacy and safety of Ensitrelvir in asymptomatic or mild to moderate COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40742497},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Since late 2019, COVID-19 has had a catastrophic impact on public health. Ensitrelvir, a new antiviral targeting the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, has reduced viral replication and disease severity. This meta-analysis and systematic review assessed Ensitrelvir's efficacy and safety in patients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19 symptoms.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Embase, and CENTRAL up to July 2024 to retrieve randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing Ensitrelvir to placebo in adults with mild to moderate, RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19. Outcomes were assessed at standardized time points, with viral RNA measured at day 4. Mean differences (MD) for continuous outcomes and risk ratios (RR) for binary outcomes, both with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were calculated using the Mantel-Haenszel random-effects model. Efficacy outcomes included SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA, while safety outcomes included HDL, triglycerides, bilirubin, AST, headache, diarrhea, TEAEs, TRAEs, serious TEAEs, and treatment discontinuation. The quality of the included RCTs was assessed with the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 (ROB2) tool.

RESULTS: The analysis included six RCTs with 2,793 participants: 1,860 received Ensitrelvir and 933 were given a placebo. Ensitrelvir gave significant results for reduced viral RNA levels of SARS-CoV-2 [MD: - 1.35; 95% CI - 1.58 to - 1.13; p < 0.01] and the incidence of lower cholesterol levels [RR: 8.83; 95% CI 4.05 to 19.27; p < 0.01] compared to the placebo group. However, it was associated with increased risks of decreased HDL levels, elevated triglycerides, increased bilirubin, more headaches, and a higher overall occurrence of treatment-emergent adverse events.

CONCLUSION: Ensitrelvir effectively reduces viral load in COVID-19 patients, but its safety profile raises concerns due to significant adverse effects. The benefits must be carefully weighed against the risks, and further research is needed to confirm its role in treatment and to find ways to mitigate these adverse effects.},
}

@article {pmid40465208,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, CH and Shih, CF and Hummel, T and Chao, YT},
title = {Multidimensional benefits of olfactory training for chronic COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Rhinology},
volume = {63},
number = {4},
pages = {431-440},
doi = {10.4193/Rhin24.355},
pmid = {40465208},
issn = {0300-0729},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Olfaction Disorders/rehabilitation/etiology/virology/therapy ; Chronic Disease ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Smell/physiology ; Quality of Life ; Olfactory Training ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Olfactory dysfunction is commonly observed in patients with COVID-19 infection. Chronic olfactory dysfunction can have a profound effect on one’s quality of life. Olfactory training (OT) is a rehabilitation therapy, which has emerged as a viable treatment for COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction. Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of OT for individuals with chronic COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction.

METHODS: A search was performed on the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from their inception through Feb 24, 2024. Eligible studies included those with sufficient information for meta-analysis pertaining to the effectiveness of OT performed for more than 8 weeks in treating chronic (duration > 16 weeks) COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction.

RESULTS: After a systematic review of all relevant articles, 9 studies qualified for inclusion. A total of 179 patients within 7 studies had eligible Sniffin' Sticks test data. The pooled results showed significant post-OT increases in TDI score, threshold, discrimination, and identification. Two studies documented qualified UPSIT scores in 63 patients. Pooled results of all identification tests revealed significant improvement.

CONCLUSIONS: OT demonstrates benefits in treating chronic COVID-19-related olfactory dysfunction, as evidenced by multidimensional evaluations. These findings suggest the involvement of both top-down and bottom-up mechanisms in the recovery process.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Olfaction Disorders/rehabilitation/etiology/virology/therapy
Chronic Disease
SARS-CoV-2
Smell/physiology
Quality of Life
Olfactory Training

@article {pmid40305821,
year = {2025},
author = {Kawabata, M and Mori, E and Yanagi, N and Tei, M and Otori, N},
title = {Olfactory disorder after COVID-19 vaccination.},
journal = {Rhinology},
volume = {63},
number = {4},
pages = {441-447},
doi = {10.4193/Rhin23.499},
pmid = {40305821},
issn = {0300-0729},
mesh = {Humans ; *Olfaction Disorders/etiology/diagnosis ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Female ; Adult ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {This systematic review examines 16 reported cases of olfactory disorders occurring after COVID-19 vaccination. Symptoms such as anosmia, parosmia, hyposmia, ageusia, and dysgeusia appeared within one week of vaccination. Among the 16 patients (12 women, 4 men; mean age 38 years), 9 received the Pfizer mRNA vaccine, 6 received the AstraZeneca viral vector vaccine, and 1 received the Moderna mRNA vaccine. Symptoms persisted from 4 days to 18 months, with varying degrees of severity. Diagnoses were made using Sniffin’ Sticks tests and T&T olfactometry, mosty revealing mild hyposmia. Treatment included vitamin B12, multivitamins, olfactory training, Kampo formula, and, in some cases, corticosteroids. The hypothesized mechanism involves inflammatory responses triggered by spike protein interaction with the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor on macrophages. Given the lack of definitive diagnostic methods, careful clinical evaluation is essential to rule out other causes such as subclinical COVID-19 infection. While olfactory disorders have been reported after vaccination, no direct causal relationship has been established.Further research is needed to clarify underlying mechanisms and contributing factors.},
}

Humans
*Olfaction Disorders/etiology/diagnosis
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Female
Adult
Male
SARS-CoV-2
*Vaccination/adverse effects

@article {pmid40266896,
year = {2025},
author = {Plebani, M and Scott, S and Simundic, AM and Cornes, M and Padoan, A and Cadamuro, J and Vermeersch, P and Çubukçu, HC and González, Á and Nybo, M and Salvagno, GL and Costelloe, SJ and Falbo, R and von Meyer, A and Iaccino, E and Botrè, F and Banfi, G and Lippi, G},
title = {New insights in preanalytical quality.},
journal = {Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine},
volume = {63},
number = {9},
pages = {1682-1692},
pmid = {40266896},
issn = {1437-4331},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Pre-Analytical Phase/standards ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Quality Control ; Laboratories, Clinical/standards ; *Clinical Laboratory Techniques/standards ; Artificial Intelligence ; },
abstract = {The negative impact of preanalytical errors on the quality of laboratory testing is now universally recognized. Nonetheless, recent technological advancements and organizational transformations in healthcare - catalyzed by the still ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19 pandemic) - have introduced new challenges and promising opportunities for improvement. The integration of value-based scoring systems for clinical laboratories and growing evidence linking preanalytical errors to patient outcomes and healthcare costs underscore the critical importance of this phase. Emerging topics in the preanalytical phase include the pursuit of a "greener" and more sustainable environment, innovations in self-sampling and automated blood collection, and strategies to minimize patient blood loss. Additionally, efforts to reduce costs and enhance sustainability through patient blood management have gained momentum. Digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) offer transformative potential, with applications in sample labeling, recording collection events, and monitoring sample conditions during transportation. AI-driven tools can also streamline the preanalytical workflow and mitigate errors. Specific challenges include managing hemolysis and developing strategies to minimize its impact, addressing issues related to urine collection, and designing robust protocols for sample stability studies. The rise of decentralized laboratory testing presents unique preanalytical hurdles, while emerging areas such as liquid biopsy and anti-doping testing introduce novel complexities. Altogether, these advancements and challenges highlight the dynamic evolution of the preanalytical phase and the critical need for continuous innovation and standardization. This collective opinion paper, which summarizes the abstracts of lectures delivered at the two-day European Federation of Laboratory Medicine (EFLM) Preanalytical Conference entitled "New Insight in Preanalytical Quality" (Padova, Italy; December 12-13, 2025), provides a comprehensive overview of preanalytical errors, offers some important insights into less obvious sources of preanalytical vulnerability and proposes efficient opportunities of improvement.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*Pre-Analytical Phase/standards
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Quality Control
Laboratories, Clinical/standards
*Clinical Laboratory Techniques/standards
Artificial Intelligence

@article {pmid40067859,
year = {2025},
author = {Bartoletti, M and Mozaffari, E and Amin, AN and Doi, Y and Loubet, P and Rivera, CG and Roshon, M and Rawal, A and Kaiser, E and Vutcovici Nicolae, M and Fu, S and Oppelt, TF and Chiang, M and Sax, PE and Kalil, AC},
title = {A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Effectiveness of Remdesivir to Treat SARS-CoV-2 in Hospitalized Patients: Have the Guidelines Evolved With the Evidence?.},
journal = {Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America},
volume = {81},
number = {1},
pages = {20-29},
doi = {10.1093/cid/ciaf111},
pmid = {40067859},
issn = {1537-6591},
support = {//Gilead Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Hospitalization ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19/mortality/virology ; Treatment Outcome ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: With progressive accumulation of knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 infection clinical management, treatment guidelines recommended several options including remdesivir, a broad-spectrum antiviral. Given the evolving nature of coronavirus disease 2019, capturing the totality of scientific evidence from clinical trials and observational studies is critical to inform clinical decision making. We conducted a systematic literature review with meta-analysis to summarize the effectiveness of remdesivir among hospitalized adults.

METHODS: We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases for interventional and observational studies examining remdesivir efficacy. A rigorous double-reviewer approach was used for source identification, screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessment. A hierarchical random-effects model meta-analysis was used, with subgroup analyses for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and real-world (RW) studies.

RESULTS: From January 2019 to December 2023 >18 000 sources were screened, and 122 unique studies were identified, reporting on 25 174 participants in RCTs and 1 279 859 in RW studies. Remdesivir significantly increased survival in the overall population (odds ratio, 0.69 [95% confidence interval, .55-.86]; P = .001] across SARS-CoV-2 variants and disease severity levels: no supplemental oxygen (0.81 [.75-.88]), low-flow oxygen (0.71 [.64-.79]), high-flow oxygen (0.87 [.83-.91]), and invasive mechanical ventilation (0.78 [.68-.90]). Rehospitalization risk was significantly reduced in patients receiving remdesivir (odds ratio, 0.72 [95% confidence interval, .64-.81]).

CONCLUSIONS: Our comprehensive systematic literature review, capturing the totality of evidence, showed a significant survival benefit among patients hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 infection and receiving remdesivir, across all disease severity levels. To assure that healthcare providers are aware of and deploy evidence-based optimal care, recommendations should rely on both RCT and RW data.},
}

Humans
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Hospitalization
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19/mortality/virology
Treatment Outcome
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid40742145,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Cheng, G and Qin, X and Liu, J},
title = {Streptococcus pneumoniae β-lactam resistance: epidemiological trends, molecular drivers, and innovative control strategies in the post-pandemic era.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0008225},
doi = {10.1128/cmr.00082-25},
pmid = {40742145},
issn = {1098-6618},
abstract = {SUMMARYStreptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) is a major human pathogen that can cause severe diseases such as meningitis and bacteremia. β-lactam antibiotics are the most essential antimicrobial agents for treating S. pneumoniae infections, but the resistance has become a significant challenge in clinical therapy. Analyses reveal notable regional disparities in the prevalence of β-lactam resistance in S. pneumoniae. The use of pneumococcal conjugate vaccines effectively reduces the spread of highly resistant clones, indirectly improving resistance patterns. Interestingly, resistance is inversely correlated with bacterial invasiveness, suggesting mutual selective pressures. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced the evolution of S. pneumoniae resistance by altering host immune states and healthcare resource allocation. Immunocompromised patients face a higher risk of invasive pneumococcal disease, driving increased antimicrobial use that fuels the rise of resistance. Beyond the single-molecular mechanism, the resistance gene acquisition order plays a critical role in the successful resistance evolution. Analyzing the dynamic principles and key nodes involved in the evolution of drug resistance could offer novel insights for developing precise antibacterial treatment strategies. Current research efforts focus on the development of novel antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides, lysins, and other innovative therapeutic agents. Artificial intelligence shows immense potential in the screening of antimicrobial drugs and the prediction of resistance mechanisms. This review synthesizes recent advances in the epidemiology, molecular mechanisms, and management of β-lactam resistance in S. pneumoniae, with the aim of informing evidence-based antimicrobial stewardship and accelerating the development of innovative therapeutics to combat this evolving public health threat.},
}

@article {pmid40740941,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Q and Tan, S and Fu, X and He, J and Ma, Q and You, F and You, L and Ren, Y},
title = {Advancing lung organoids toward clinical applications: a global perspective on research focus and future directions.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1611304},
pmid = {40740941},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Lung organoids have emerged as a promising tool for studying lung development, function, and disease pathology. The present study aimed to analyze the current status and development trends of lung organoid research over the past years, present visual representations, and provide references for future research directions using bibliometric analysis.

METHODS: Information on articles on lung organoids extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection, such as year of publication, journal, country, institution, author, and keywords, was analyzed. R, VOSviewer, and SCImago Graphica were used to visualize publication trends, co-authorship analysis, co-occurrence analysis, and hotspot evolution.

RESULTS: The number of global publications has increased from 1 in 2011 to 929 in 2024. The Nature produced the highest number of citations (2,675 citations). The United States (8,155 citations and 281 publications), University Medical Center Utrecht (2083 citations and 11 publications), and Clevers H (2,711 citations and 21 publications) were the most influential countries, institutions, and authors, respectively. Co-occurrence cluster analysis of the top 54 keywords formed four clusters: (1) idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, (2) lung cancer, (3) cystic fibrosis, (4) COVID-19.

CONCLUSION: Overall, research on lung organoids continues to increase. The United States of America and the Netherlands dominated global studies. The analysis of pulmonary fibrosis, lung cancer and COVID-19 occupied a prominent position of research in this area. The research hotspots for lung organoids are disease model and microphysiological systems. Standardization, accurate disease modeling, and ethics and safety remain pressing challenges that need to be addressed in this field.},
}

@article {pmid40740387,
year = {2025},
author = {Øvretveit, J},
title = {Applying implementation science to infectious disease emergency preparedness and response.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1622618},
pmid = {40740387},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Implementation Science ; COVID-19 ; *Disaster Planning/organization & administration ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; *Civil Defense/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {Some infectious disease outbreaks present an emergency and a potential disaster scenario. Examples include a new virus similar to or more infectious and deadly than COVID-19 or Ebola, such as the 2025 MERS-like virus. Although good practices for general emergency preparedness and management can be used to plan, there are different and less-known preparations and responses needed for some infectious disease outbreaks and continuing and evolving crises. The objectives of this article are to provide guidance about how to plan and respond to these types of emergencies more effectively by using implementation science knowledge as well as lessons from COVID-19 and other infectious disease emergencies. This narrative review gives guidance for healthcare service delivery leaders at different levels of a healthcare system and easy to understand and use resources for leaders to improve their infectious disease emergency preparedness and operational actions in a disaster scenario. The implementation science guidance covers: interventions, adaptation to context, iteration, coordination for alignment, facilitation, and how to use behavior and organization change models and theories. It also provides researchers with an overview of issues and frameworks to help focus their research designs and data collection to study intervention implementation processes and outcomes for infectious disease outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*Implementation Science
COVID-19
*Disaster Planning/organization & administration
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
*Civil Defense/organization & administration

@article {pmid40738542,
year = {2025},
author = {Adhikary, K and Paul, A and Madan, A and Islam, A and Ashique, S and Ramzan, M},
title = {Personalized precision: Revolutionizing cancer treatment with mRNA-based vaccines in melanoma therapy.},
journal = {Advances in immunology},
volume = {166},
number = {},
pages = {137-167},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ai.2024.10.011},
pmid = {40738542},
issn = {1557-8445},
mesh = {Humans ; *Melanoma/therapy/immunology ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics ; *Precision Medicine/methods ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics ; Immunotherapy/methods ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; Animals ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized ; },
abstract = {Biological and societal issues are involved when we refer to a condition as cancer, which connotes loss, complexity, and uncertainty. In recent decades, the number of melanomas has climbed. Cancer treatment vaccines have induced immune responses against tumor-associated but not tumor-specific antigens. Cancer therapy may use mRNA vaccines after COVID-19 pandemic regulation advancements. Therapy mRNA cancer vaccines as advanced immunotherapies gain prominence. Using messenger RNA, the mRNA-4157/V940 cancer vaccine encodes 34 patient-specific tumor euroantigens. mRNA-4157/V940, like the COVID-19 vaccination, instructs the immune system to distinguish healthy and malignant cells using messenger RNA. T cell responses are tailored to a patient's tumor mutational pattern using this unique immunization. The drug suppresses PD-1, PD-L1, and PD-L2. T lymphocytes activated by pembrolizumab may affect cancer and non-cancerous cells. Early clinical trials suggest pembrolizumab and mRNA-4157/V940 may boost T cell-mediated cancer killing. Knowing the status and problems of melanoma therapeutic mRNA cancer vaccines in clinical trials is critical. In this chapter, we have focused on preclinical and clinical advances that have revealed mRNA melanoma vaccine manufacturing issues and solutions.},
}

Humans
*Melanoma/therapy/immunology
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics
*Precision Medicine/methods
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics
Immunotherapy/methods
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
Animals
Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized

@article {pmid40736895,
year = {2025},
author = {Sung, WJ and Baaijens, JA},
title = {Algorithms for Short-Read Viral Haplotype Reconstruction: Challenges, Solutions, and Perspectives.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2955},
number = {},
pages = {89-109},
doi = {10.1007/978-1-0716-4702-8_6},
pmid = {40736895},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {Humans ; *Algorithms ; Computational Biology/methods ; COVID-19/virology ; Genetic Variation ; *Genome, Viral ; *Haplotypes ; High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods ; Mutation ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses, such as HIV, HCV, and SARS-CoV-2, show high levels of intrahost genetic diversity. Many different haplotypes can be present in a single infection, which can be studied using next-generation sequencing. However, full-length haplotype reconstruction from short reads is computationally challenging due to the presence of low-frequency mutants, as well as sequencing errors. Moreover, reads may not be long enough to span regions between neighboring mutations. Finally, the sequencing depths needed to discover such low-frequency mutants result in large datasets, which require highly efficient algorithms. In this review, we provide an overview of current strategies to address these challenges and identify potential directions for increasing the accuracy and efficiency of viral haplotype reconstruction. Such developments will be key to advancing our understanding of viral evolution, improving treatment strategies, and informing public health interventions.},
}

Humans
*Algorithms
Computational Biology/methods
COVID-19/virology
Genetic Variation
*Genome, Viral
*Haplotypes
High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing/methods
Mutation
SARS-CoV-2/genetics

@article {pmid40736492,
year = {2025},
author = {Grad, R and Ebell, MH},
title = {Top 20 Research Studies of 2024 for Primary Care Physicians.},
journal = {American family physician},
volume = {112},
number = {1},
pages = {34-41},
pmid = {40736492},
issn = {1532-0650},
mesh = {Humans ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; *Physicians, Primary Care ; COVID-19 ; *Primary Health Care ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {This article summarizes the top 20 research studies of 2024 identified as POEMs (patient-oriented evidence that matters). Based on a network meta-analysis, the oral antibiotics most likely to be effective for community-acquired pneumonia are telithromycin (not available in the United States), azithromycin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, and the quinolones levofloxacin and nemonoxacin (not available in the United States). The oral antivirals molnupiravir and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir reduce hospitalizations in immunocompromised patients with COVID-19. In average-risk infants, a single dose of nirsevimab reduces hospitalizations due to respiratory syncytial virus. Amoxicillin with or without clavulanate is more effective than placebo for children with symptoms of acute sinusitis. Benzyl benzoate 25% is highly effective for scabies in adolescents and adults. Lactobacillus-containing probiotics reduce the incidence of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in premenopausal women with frequent UTIs. Low-dose amitriptyline is effective as second-line therapy for irritable bowel syndrome. For patients with uncomplicated gallstones, conservative management is a reasonable option. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are better than older drugs at improving patient-oriented outcomes for type 2 diabetes. Continuous or intermittent glucose monitoring is minimally effective for control of type 2 diabetes and can be harmful. Phentermine-topiramate and GLP-1 receptor agonists are the most effective drugs for promoting weight loss. Semaglutide is effective for secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in people with obesity and no diabetes. SGLT-2 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists decrease cardiovascular death in older adults with type 2 diabetes and heart failure. Beta blockers do not prevent subsequent events after myocardial infarction in patients with preserved ejection fraction. For patients who do not quit smoking after a trial of varenicline or combined nicotine replacement therapy, a higher dose of either drug can increase quit rates. e-Cigarettes increase abstinence from smoking, but long-term vaping is a consequence for some. Oral naltrexone and acamprosate are safe and effective treatments for alcohol use disorder. Cognitive behavior therapy can reduce fatigue attributed to long COVID. New monoclonal antibodies for Alzheimer disease are harmful, expensive, and minimally effective. Clinicians may choose to deliver bad news in person or by telephone, using their judgment or patient preference to decide which is best for the patient.},
}

Humans
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
*Physicians, Primary Care
COVID-19
*Primary Health Care
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40736451,
year = {2025},
author = {Yfantopoulos, J and Chantzaras, A},
title = {The Economics of prevention and quality of care: policy insights from the EU's COVID-19 response.},
journal = {Expert review of pharmacoeconomics & outcomes research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14737167.2025.2542294},
pmid = {40736451},
issn = {1744-8379},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Prevention and quality of care are increasingly recognized as fundamental drivers of sustainable, high-performing health systems. Both have demonstrated cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits, yet remain underfunded and fragmented across many European Union Member States. The COVID-19 pandemic offered a natural stress test, revealing significant variation in investment patterns, system responsiveness, and outcome efficiency.

AREAS COVERED: This article integrates economic theory, empirical evidence, and policy analysis to explore how prevention and quality jointly shape system value. It includes analyses of prevention expenditure trends, elasticity to GDP and health spending, and cross-country efficiency indicators across EU Member States (2019-2022). The findings draw from Eurostat data and a targeted review of economic literature on cost-effectiveness and value-based care.

EXPERT OPINION: Empirical results confirm that prevention is income- and budget-elastic, but efficiency and impact depend on institutional capacity and governance. The underuse of economic tools in quality planning and prevention prioritization hampers performance. Embedding efficiency metrics, dynamic modeling, and performance-based allocation into policy frameworks is essential to enhance value and resilience. In the coming years, prevention and quality should be better embedded in fiscal planning and system performance, not just as public health imperatives - but as economic necessities.},
}

@article {pmid40735200,
year = {2025},
author = {Jiang, Z and Zhou, Q and Shu, H and Jiang, L},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on physical activity patterns in non-professional populations in Asia: a mini review of pre-, during, and post-pandemic periods.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1604185},
pmid = {40735200},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Exercise ; Asia/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {This mini-narrative review examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity (PA) patterns across Asian countries, including regions such as Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Pre-pandemic (before 2019), Asia experienced gradually increasing PA participation rates, characterized predominantly by outdoor activities, gym workouts, and organized group exercises, driven by growing fitness awareness and the availability of facilities for exercise. During the pandemic (2020-2022), widespread declines in regular exercise occurred due to restrictions, causing a substantial shift toward indoor, home-based, and online-based PA. Low PA adversely affects cardiovascular health, immune function, obesity, metabolic conditions, and psychological well-being. Although home-based exercise modalities partially mitigated these impacts, their effectiveness remained limited compared to pre-pandemic routines. In the post-pandemic period (2022-2025), PA in Asia partially recovered, with some regions, such as Hong Kong and South Korea, reporting PA levels surpassing pre-pandemic baselines due to widespread adoption of hybrid exercise models. This recovery has fostered lasting changes toward hybrid exercise models, combining traditional and digital modalities, resulting in positive health outcomes across the cardiovascular, immune, metabolic, and psychological domains. Future public health strategies should emphasize flexible, diverse, and accessible exercise options, and further research should explore the sustainability and implications of these evolving exercise behaviors.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Exercise
Asia/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40735053,
year = {2025},
author = {SeyedAlinaghi, S and Afzalian, A and Mojdeganlou, H and Varshochi, S and Paranjkhoo, P and Shahbazi, P and Hajizadeh, M and Lotfi, S and Hajei, A and Nasiri, K and Afsahi, AM and Afroughi, F and Heidaresfahani, L and Karimi, A and Farizani Gohari, NS and Mehraeen, E and Hackett, D},
title = {COVID-19 and its association with meteorological, climate, and environmental factors: A systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of public health research},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {22799036251358298},
pmid = {40735053},
issn = {2279-9028},
abstract = {COVID-19 transmission can be influenced by various factors, including weather and climate conditions, population density, and the availability of medical facilities. To gain a deeper understanding of this topic, an in-depth analysis of recent studies is needed. Our objective was to investigate previous systematic reviews that have examined the seasonal variation of COVID-19 and the impact of climate on its transmission and mortality. Online databases that included PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane were searched using relevant keywords up to November 2021. Negative associations were found between temperature and COVID-19 spread and mortality (6/9 studies, 66.6%). These negative correlations imply a decrease in the spread and mortality of COVID-19 with an increase in temperature. Similarly, seven systematic reviews reported a negative correlation between humidity and transmission or mortality of COVID-19 (7/9 studies, 77.7%). COVID-19 spread was not associated with precipitation (three studies) but was negatively correlated with sunlight or UV radiation (two studies), COVID-19 incidence and mortality were positively associated with wind speed (one study). One study reported that the effect of air pressure and UV radiation on COVID-19 activity was unknown. The effects of air pollution, seasonal changes, wind speed, precipitation, and UV radiation on COVID-19 incidence or mortality remain unclear. However, factors proposed as having the greatest influence on COVID-19 incidence or mortality include air pollution, wind speed, and wastewater. Sunlight exposure and warm climates likely assist with reducing COVID-19 incidence or mortality, with the infection having a winter seasonality.},
}

@article {pmid40735024,
year = {2025},
author = {Haile, SR and Kronthaler, D},
title = {Potential for Bias in Prevalence Estimates when Not Accounting for Test Sensitivity and Specificity: A Systematic Review of COVID-19 Seroprevalence Studies.},
journal = {International journal of public health},
volume = {70},
number = {},
pages = {1608343},
pmid = {40735024},
issn = {1661-8564},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; Bias ; Prevalence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to many studies of seroprevalence. A number of methods exist in the statistical literature to correctly estimate disease prevalence or seroprevalence in the presence of diagnostic test misclassification, but these methods seem to be not routinely used in the public health literature. We aimed to examine how widespread the problem is in recent publications, and to quantify the magnitude of bias introduced when correct methods are not used.

METHODS: A systematic review was performed to estimate how often public health researchers accounted for diagnostic test performance in estimates of seroprevalence.

RESULTS: Of the seroprevalence studies sampled, 77% (95% CI 72%-82%) failed to account for sensitivity and specificity. In high impact journals, 72% did not correct for test characteristics, and 34% did not report sensitivity or specificity. The most common type of correction was the Rogen-Gladen formula (57%, 45%-69%), followed by Bayesian approaches (32%, 21%-44%). Rates of correction increased slightly over time, but type of correction did not change.

CONCLUSION: Researchers conducting studies of prevalence should report sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic test and correctly account for these characteristics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/diagnosis
Seroepidemiologic Studies
Sensitivity and Specificity
Bias
Prevalence
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40527067,
year = {2025},
author = {da Fonseca, RN and Maggioli, MF and de Oliveira Hübner, S and Bauermann, FV},
title = {Antiviral effects of flavonoids on animal viruses.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {610},
number = {},
pages = {110596},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2025.110596},
pmid = {40527067},
issn = {1096-0341},
mesh = {*Flavonoids/pharmacology ; Animals ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/veterinary/virology ; Swine ; Virus Internalization/drug effects ; Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/drug effects ; Infectious bronchitis virus/drug effects ; *Viruses/drug effects ; African Swine Fever Virus/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Flavonoids, plant-derived compounds widely recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, also exhibit significant antiviral effects against various animal viruses. This review highlights the promising antiviral mechanisms of flavonoids, which include disrupting viral replication, blocking cell entry, and modulating immune responses. Notably, flavonoids like quercetin, kaempferol, and genistein have been shown to effectively inhibit viruses of veterinary importance, such as African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV), Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV), and Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), among others. Although most studies demonstrate efficacy in vitro, the limited in vivo research underscores the need to further explore flavonoids' antiviral potential in real-world applications. The immunomodulatory effects observed in some cases, where flavonoids regulate cytokine expression and reduce inflammation, suggest a dual action that could benefit both antiviral and anti-inflammatory responses. This body of research suggests that flavonoids could provide an option for managing animal viral infections. Yet, standardized methodologies and more in vivo studies are needed to validate these findings for veterinary use.},
}

*Flavonoids/pharmacology
Animals
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology
Virus Replication/drug effects
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/veterinary/virology
Swine
Virus Internalization/drug effects
Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/drug effects
Infectious bronchitis virus/drug effects
*Viruses/drug effects
African Swine Fever Virus/drug effects

@article {pmid40266540,
year = {2025},
author = {Gallo, M and Lasagna, A and Renzelli, V and Morviducci, L and Cortellini, A and Monami, M and Marino, G and Gori, S and Verzé, M and Ragni, A and Tuveri, E and Sciacca, L and D'Oronzo, S and Giuffrida, D and Natalicchio, A and Giorgino, F and Marrano, N and Zatelli, MC and Montagnani, M and Felicetti, F and Mazzilli, R and Fogli, S and Franchina, T and Argentiero, A and Candido, R and Perrone, F and Aimaretti, G and Avogaro, A and Silvestris, N and Faggiano, A},
title = {Vaccination of people with solid tumors and diabetes: existing evidence and recommendations. A position statement from a multidisciplinary panel of scientific societies.},
journal = {Journal of endocrinological investigation},
volume = {48},
number = {8},
pages = {1717-1738},
pmid = {40266540},
issn = {1720-8386},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neoplasms/complications/immunology/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Vaccination/standards/methods ; *Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/immunology ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic/standards ; Societies, Scientific/standards ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Societies, Medical/standards ; },
abstract = {Diabetes and cancer are two of the most common public health concerns worldwide. The complex interplay of these two conditions is a growing area of research, as patients with diabetes are at increased risk for developing cancer, and vice versa. Furthermore, both patient populations show increased risk of many communicable infectious diseases and their adverse consequences, while vaccination can play a crucial role in their prevention, improving patient outcomes. Vaccination should represent a standard part of care for patients with cancer, diabetes, and both the diseases simultaneously, including people undergoing cancer treatment or in remission. Several international guidelines provide recommendations for vaccinating people with cancer or diabetes, but the two conditions have not been specifically evaluated together. Here we present a multidisciplinary consensus position paper on vaccination in patients with cancer and diabetes. The position paper is the result of a collaborative effort between experts from the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM), Italian Association of Medical Diabetologists (AMD), Italian Society of Diabetology (SID), Italian Society of Endocrinology (SIE), and Italian Society of Pharmacology (SIF). The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art knowledge on vaccination in patients with cancer and diabetes. It discusses the importance of vaccination in preventing infections, focuses attention on the need to consider the unique challenges faced by patients with cancer and diabetes when it comes to vaccine administration, and highlights the need for coordinated care to optimize treatment outcomes. Overall, the consensus position paper provides healthcare professionals caring for patients with cancer and diabetes recommendations on the use of various vaccines, including influenza, COVID-19, HZV, and HPV vaccines, as well as guidance on how to address common concerns and challenges related to vaccine administration.},
}

Humans
*Neoplasms/complications/immunology/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Vaccination/standards/methods
*Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/immunology
*Practice Guidelines as Topic/standards
Societies, Scientific/standards
COVID-19/prevention & control
Societies, Medical/standards

@article {pmid40741272,
year = {2025},
author = {Zavalichi, MA and Ionescu, G and Arsenescu Georgescu, CM and Mihaescu, A and Cimpoesu, CD and Cimpoesu, G and Zavalichi, SD and Stătescu, C and Demiray, A and Kanbay, M and Covic, A and Nistor, I},
title = {The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in COVID-19: a systematic review.},
journal = {Archives of medical science : AMS},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {897-918},
pmid = {40741272},
issn = {1734-1922},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic represents a major worldwide challenge, with a great impact on health systems and economic mechanisms. SARS-CoV-2, the pathogenic agent that generates COVID-19, creates a wide variety of organ dysfunctions, from acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) to acute myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism. Mechanical circulatory support devices such as extracorporeal membrane circulatory oxygenation (ECMO) have shown their efficacy in maintaining organ perfusion in respiratory and cardiac impairments. With this review, we aimed to assess the impact of ECMO use in COVID-19 patients with ARDS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a systematic review to find studies using ECMO in COVID-19. Comorbidities, side effects, and survival rate to discharge were analysed. The literature search was done using PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Embase (Elsevier), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (Wiley) and clinicaltrials.gov databases (inception (December 2019) to October 16, 2021), by 2 authors.

RESULTS: We included 33 studies from 10 countries with a total of 4760 patients receiving ECMO for COVID-19. The survival rate varied from 9% to 90.6% at discharge. The most serious adverse events were acute kidney injury (up to 87%), major bleeding (up to 92.1%), strokes or cerebral haemorrhage (up to 34%). Other complications such as pulmonary embolism, peripheral bleeding, or sepsis had a major impact on survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS: ECMO in COVID-19 patients may be a useful rescue therapy instrument, but due to the great variability of studies and still unknown mechanisms and effects of SARS-CoV-2, further studies need to be done.},
}

@article {pmid40734681,
year = {2025},
author = {Duff, E and Pijl, E and Fehr, C and Gudi, SK},
title = {The Impact of Post-COVID-19 Condition on Frontline Healthcare Workers: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {The Canadian journal of infectious diseases & medical microbiology = Journal canadien des maladies infectieuses et de la microbiologie medicale},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {1790795},
pmid = {40734681},
issn = {1712-9532},
abstract = {The main goal of this integrative scoping review was to address the knowledge gap and inform policy and research regarding the impact of post-COVID-19 conditions on frontline healthcare workers (HCWs). An integrative scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley's framework examined post-COVID-19 conditions in frontline HCWs. We searched CINAHL, EMBASE, APA PsycINFO, PubMed, Social Science Database, ProQuest, Social Science Journals, and Web of Science, including dissertations, conference proceedings, and government publications for gray literature. A preestablished data extraction tool was developed to capture relevant information about post-COVID-19 conditions in HCWs. Of the total 42 studies, the majority were cross-sectional in design (29) and conducted mainly in countries such as Italy (4), India (3), and Brazil (3). Study findings reveal that a substantial proportion of HCWs in various countries were diagnosed with post-COVID-19 condition, which included persistent symptoms affecting physical and mental well-being. Persistent symptoms, particularly fatigue and anxiety, were associated with a poorer quality of life, decreased work ability, and impaired health-related quality of life among HCWs. Fatigue was a frequently reported symptom in many studies, often accompanied by weakness, muscle pain, shortness of breath, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. The evidence generated through this research examining post-COVID-19 conditions among HCWs is a foundation for informing policy in the healthcare workforce. These findings also address the gap in research on the broader impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on employers and the healthcare workforce.},
}

@article {pmid40734171,
year = {2025},
author = {Passmore, H and Craft, S and Krieger, R and Tang, S and Sacerdote, S and Lumbis, E and Blaufarb, S and Doran, KM},
title = {Innovations at the intersection of homelessness and substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {Harm reduction journal},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {132},
doi = {10.1186/s12954-025-01235-7},
pmid = {40734171},
issn = {1477-7517},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ill-Housed Persons ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Substance-Related Disorders/therapy/epidemiology ; *Harm Reduction ; Telemedicine ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic led to disruptions in substance use and harm reduction services for people experiencing homelessness (PEH) as well as opportunities to innovate. Pandemic-era innovations may offer insights on more effective approaches to the intertwined issues of homelessness and substance use beyond the pandemic. We present findings from a scoping literature review of articles describing interventions related to substance use and homelessness that emerged during the pandemic.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping literature review to identify articles on pandemic-era innovations related to substance use and homelessness. We completed a comprehensive search for articles in nine academic and grey literature databases in November 2022, and a second database search in September 2023. We screened titles, abstracts, and full text using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. We extracted data on study design, location, participants, and outcomes.

RESULTS: Database searches yielded 812 unique articles; 68 met inclusion criteria. Most articles discussed interventions addressing opioid use (n = 60). Commonly described interventions included telemedicine-based prescribing of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), homeless services site-based MOUD provision, managed alcohol programs, supervised consumption services, and safer supply prescribing. Articles reported few intervention-related adverse effects, though study designs (e.g., non-experimental, observational studies lacking comparison groups) presented limitations to effectiveness outcome assessment. Surmountable challenges associated with interventions included inequitable access to technology for PEH.

CONCLUSIONS: Innovations in programs that provide substance use treatment and harm reduction services to PEH were observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further evidence is needed to determine which COVID-19 pandemic-related innovations were most impactful and how they should be prioritized and continued post-pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Ill-Housed Persons
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Substance-Related Disorders/therapy/epidemiology
*Harm Reduction
Telemedicine
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid40733750,
year = {2025},
author = {Hernandez-Ruiz, YG and Lopatynsky-Reyes, EZ and Ulloa-Gutierrez, R and Avila-Agüero, ML and Rodriguez-Morales, AJ and Basa, JE and Nikiema, FW and Chacon-Cruz, E},
title = {100-Day Mission for Future Pandemic Vaccines, Viewed Through the Lens of Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070773},
pmid = {40733750},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {The 100-Day Mission, coordinated by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and endorsed by significant international stakeholders, aims to shorten the timeframe for developing and implementing vaccines to 100 days after the report of a new pathogen. This ambitious goal is outlined as an essential first step in improving pandemic preparedness worldwide. This review highlights the mission's implementation potential and challenges by examining it through the lens of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which often face barriers to equitable vaccine access. This article explores the scientific, economic, political, and social aspects that could influence the mission's success, relying on lessons learned from previous pandemics, such as the Spanish flu, H1N1, and COVID-19. We also examined important cornerstones like prototype vaccine libraries, accelerated clinical trial preparedness, early biomarkers identification, scalable manufacturing capabilities, and rapid pathogen characterization. The review also explores the World Health Organization (WHO) Pandemic Agreement and the significance of Phase 4 surveillance in ensuring vaccine safety. We additionally evaluate societal issues that disproportionately impact LMICs, like vaccine reluctance, health literacy gaps, and digital access limitations. Without intentional attempts to incorporate under-resourced regions into global preparedness frameworks, we argue that the 100-Day Mission carries the risk of exacerbating already-existing disparities. Ultimately, our analysis emphasizes that success will not only rely on a scientific innovation but also on sustained international collaboration, transparent governance, and equitable funding that prioritizes inclusion from the beginning.},
}

@article {pmid40733738,
year = {2025},
author = {Gulova, SM and Veselkina, US and Astrakhantseva, IV},
title = {Adaptation of the Vaccine Prophylaxis Strategy to Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070761},
pmid = {40733738},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {24-25-20139//Russian Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {The emergence of a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus closely related to SARS-CoV and officially known as Betacoronavirus pandemicum precipitated a substantial surge in vaccine development that culminated during the global COVID-19 pandemic. At present, there are dozens of vaccines for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 being utilized across the globe. However, only 10 of these vaccines have been authorized by the World Health Organization (WHO). These include mRNA-based, viral vector, subunit and whole-virion inactivated vaccines. At the current end of the pandemic, there has been a decline in the global vaccination rate, both for the general population and for those most at risk of severe illness from the virus. This suggests that the effectiveness of the vaccines may be waning. The decline occurs alongside a decrease in testing and sequencing for SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, the process of tracking viruses becomes increasingly complex, thereby providing a selective advantage for SARS-CoV-2 and allowing it to evolve stealthily. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of viral evolution and vaccine development. We also discuss ways to overcome viral variability and test universal vaccines for all SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}

@article {pmid40733725,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, C and Peng, L and Huang, X and Tsang, TK},
title = {Impact of Vaccination and Public Health Measures on the Severity of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Infections in China: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070747},
pmid = {40733725},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {Project No. T11-705/21-N//Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong SAR Government/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Starting in early 2022, SARS-CoV-2 Omicron has driven large outbreaks in China, a predominantly infection-naive population with high inactivated vaccine coverage. This unique context provided a substantially less-confounded opportunity to evaluate how vaccination, public health, and social measures influenced severity. Methods: We systematically reviewed 86 studies (224 severity estimates) published from 2022 to 2024, reporting symptom and clinical severity outcomes (fever, cough, and sore throat; symptomatic, severe/critical, and fatal illness) of Omicron infections in China. Using meta-regression, we evaluated the associations of study setting, age group, vaccination status, predominant subvariants, and Oxford COVID-19 Government Response Tracker (OxCGRT) indices, including the Government Response Index (GRI), Containment and Health Index (CHI), and the Stringency Index (SI), with infection outcomes, adjusting for key confounders. Results: We found the primary or booster series of inactivated vaccines conferred strong protection against severe/critical illness (pooled relative risk (RR) 0.17 [95% CI: 0.09-0.33]) but did not reduce symptom frequency (RR 0.99 [95% CI: 0.95-1.02]). Each 10-unit increase in GRI or CHI was associated with 7% (95% CI: 1-12%) and 6% (95% CI: 1-10%) lower odds of symptomatic infection and 3% (95% CI: 1-4%) lower odds of severe/critical illness. Later subvariants (BA.5, BF.7, and XBB) showed 24-38% higher odds of upper respiratory symptoms versus BA.1. Conclusions: The data collection context significantly impacted severity estimates, with higher estimates from emergency hospitals. Overall, inactivated vaccines provided strong protection against severe/critical outcomes while stringent public health measures were associated with lower severity. Our findings underscore the importance of consistent and standardized protocols to produce reliable estimates of SARS-CoV-2 severity in evolving epidemiological contexts.},
}

@article {pmid40733710,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Zhang, H and Lv, K and Lin, X and Chen, F and Cao, H and Chen, C},
title = {Retinal Vascular Occlusion Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Comprehensive Review of Observational Study and Pathophysiological Mechanisms.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070733},
pmid = {40733710},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {82271096//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Retinal vascular occlusion (RVO) and retinal artery occlusion (RAO) have been reported as rare adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination, raising concerns about vaccine safety. This review synthesizes cohort and case-control studies assessing the association between COVID-19 vaccines and RVO/RAO, while exploring potential pathophysiological mechanisms. Methods: We analyzed large-scale population-based studies from South Korea, Europe, and the TriNetX database, focusing on odds ratios (OR), hazard ratios (HR), and relative risks (RR) across mRNA and adenoviral vector vaccines. Pathological processes were hypothesized based on molecular and clinical evidence. Results: Studies investigating the association between COVID-19 vaccination and retinal vascular occlusion show conflicting results; some studies report no association (e.g., OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.60-1.45), others suggest reduced risk (e.g., OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.64-0.99), and one indicates increased risk over two years (HR 2.19, 95% CI 2.00-2.39). Adenoviral vector vaccines, particularly ChAdOx1, show higher RAO incidence in specific cohorts. Proposed mechanisms include vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) via anti-PF4 antibodies, spike protein-mediated endothelial dysfunction, and adjuvant-driven inflammation. Conclusions: While causality remains unproven, temporal heterogeneity and vaccine type-specific risks warrant further investigation. Longitudinal studies with robust controls are needed to clarify these associations in the post-pandemic context.},
}

@article {pmid40733700,
year = {2025},
author = {Baralić, M and Stojanović, N and Gajić, S and Sič, A and Manzar, A and Bontić, A and Pavlović, J and Bojić, MN and Kezić, A},
title = {Kidney Involvement in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Peritoneal Dialysis as the Preferred Modality.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070723},
pmid = {40733700},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) represent a uniquely vulnerable population due to intrinsic immunological dysfunction and a high prevalence of comorbid conditions. This review examines the complex interplay between natural and vaccine-induced immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 in this group, focusing on viral entry, immune activation, and immune evasion mechanisms. Particular attention is given to the impaired cellular and humoral responses seen in PD patients, including reduced T-cell function, diminished antibody production, and abnormal cytokine signaling, all of which contribute to an elevated risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. The immunogenicity and clinical efficacy of various vaccine platforms, including inactivated, vector-based, and mRNA formulations, are critically assessed, with an emphasis on the role of booster doses in enhancing protection amid waning immunity and evolving viral variants. Furthermore, the review highlights the advantages of PD as a home-based modality that is compatible with telemedicine and may reduce the risk of viral exposure. These insights underscore the importance of developing individualized vaccination strategies, maintaining close immunological surveillance, and implementing innovative dialysis care approaches to improve clinical outcomes during the ongoing pandemic and future public health crises. Tailored booster strategies and telemedicine-integrated care models are essential for improving outcomes in this high-risk population.},
}

@article {pmid40733692,
year = {2025},
author = {Thöne, P and Egger, M and Gruber, MS and Gruber, G and Kasassov, C and Nyiri, D and Weis, E and Werl, H and Trinkl, L and Lilleby, W and Clodi, M and Bräutigam, E and Dieplinger, B and Aigner, A and Geinitz, H},
title = {Safety, Immunogenicity, and Efficacy of COVID-19 Vaccines in Radiation-Oncology Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070715},
pmid = {40733692},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly threatened cancer patients and oncologic care. The rollout of vaccines emerged as a critical milestone, despite the initial lack of evidence regarding their safety and efficacy in this population. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the current evidence on COVID-19 vaccination in patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT). Methods: PubMed, Livivo, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were systematically reviewed for relevant publications on COVID-19 vaccination in the context of radiation oncology, published by 19 April 2024. The treatment effects were calculated as the proportion of seroconverted individuals. Results: A total of 22 studies published between 2021 and 2024 were included, covering various aspects of vaccination, including safety, tolerability, qualitative and quantitative humoral responses, cellular responses, vaccination efficacy, and booster vaccinations. Notably, patients undergoing RT exhibited a high willingness to receive vaccination. Vaccination was overall well tolerated and safe, with a low incidence of side effects, which were primarily mild. The primary meta-analysis showed a seroconversion proportion of 91% [95% CI: 84-96%] overall, with a somewhat higher proportion of 93% in patients receiving RT alone, compared to 90% in patients receiving either RT or RT combined with chemotherapy. Furthermore, immunization during RT led to a sustained increase in antibody titers, with a notable long-term persistence of IgG. Conclusions: COVID-19 vaccines demonstrate excellent safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy in patients receiving RT, who also exhibit a high willingness to be vaccinated. The outcomes observed are comparable to those in healthy controls and superior to those seen in patients receiving other cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy. The vaccination of radiation oncology patients in future pandemics or epidemics is strongly advocated even during active treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40733664,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, HN and Vanderzee, IO and Wen, F},
title = {The Application of Single-Cell Technologies for Vaccine Development Against Viral Infections.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070687},
pmid = {40733664},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {S10OD020053, P30CA046592//National Institutes of Health (NIH)/ ; CAREER Award 1653611//National Science Foundation (NSF)/ ; Taubman Institute Innovation Projects program//A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute/ ; },
abstract = {The development of vaccines against viral infections has advanced rapidly over the past century, propelled by innovations in laboratory and molecular technologies. These advances have expanded the range of vaccine platforms beyond live-attenuated and inactivated vaccines to include recombinant platforms, such as subunit proteins and virus-like particles (VLPs), and more recently, mRNA-based vaccines, while also enhancing methods for evaluating vaccine performance. Despite these innovations, a persistent challenge remains: the inherent complexity and heterogeneity of immune responses continue to impede efforts to achieve consistently effective and durable protection across diverse populations. Single-cell technologies have emerged as transformative tools for dissecting this immune heterogeneity, providing comprehensive and granular insights into cellular phenotypes, functional states, and dynamic host-pathogen interactions. In this review, we examine how single-cell epigenomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and multi-omics approaches are being integrated across all stages of vaccine development-from infection-informed discovery to guide vaccine design, to high-resolution evaluation of efficacy, and refinement of cell lines for manufacturing. Through representative studies, we highlight how insights from these technologies contribute to the rational design of more effective vaccines and support the development of personalized vaccination strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40733649,
year = {2025},
author = {Dong, C and Li, Z and Tan, D and Sun, H and Liang, J and Wei, D and Zheng, Y and Zhang, L and Liu, S and Zhang, Y and Wang, J and He, Q},
title = {Research and Clinical Progress of Therapeutic Tumor Vaccines.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070672},
pmid = {40733649},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Therapeutic cancer vaccines are a new growth point of biomedicine with broad industrial prospects in the post-COVID-19 era. Many large international pharmaceutical companies and emerging biotechnology companies are deploying different tumor therapeutic cancer vaccine projects, focusing on promoting their clinical transformation, and the vaccine industry has strong momentum for development. Such vaccines are also the core engine and pilot site for the development of new vaccine targets, new vectors, new adjuvants, and new technologies, which play a key role in promoting the innovation and development of vaccines. Various therapeutic cancer vaccines, such as viral vector vaccines, bacterial vector vaccines, cell vector vaccines, peptide vaccines, and nucleic acid vaccines, have all been applied in clinical research. With the continuous development of technology, therapeutic cancer vaccines are evolving towards the trends of precise antigens, efficient carriers, diversified adjuvants, and combined applications. For instance, the rapidly advancing mRNA-4157 vaccine is a typical representative that combines personalized antigens with efficient delivery vectors (lipid nanoparticles, LNPs), and it also shows synergistic advantages in melanoma patients treated in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this article, we will systematically discuss the current research and development status and clinical research progress of various therapeutic cancer vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40733647,
year = {2025},
author = {Al Hashimi, F and Shuaib, SE and Bragazzi, NL and Chen, S and Wu, J},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccine Timing and Co-Administration with Influenza Vaccines in Canada: A Systematic Review with Comparative Insights from G7 Countries.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13070670},
pmid = {40733647},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Despite significant advancements in vaccine development and distribution, the optimal timing and integration of COVID-19 vaccination in Canada remain crucial to public health. As the SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to evolve, determining effective timing strategies for booster doses is necessary to sustain immunity, especially in high-risk populations. This systematic review aims to critically evaluate the timing and co-administration strategies of COVID-19 vaccines in Canada, comparing them with approaches in other G7 nations.

METHODS: The review seeks to identify best practices to inform national vaccination policies, with a particular focus on synchronizing COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccinations. We systematically searched Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science (17 August 2021 to 7 July 2024) using the PECOS framework. Two independent reviewers screened titles/abstracts, extracted key data on immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety, and performed a narrative synthesis on timing and co-administration outcomes.

RESULTS: Evidence summarized across G7 countries reveals that most nations are converging on annual or flexible booster schedules tailored to high-risk groups, often aligning COVID-19 vaccination with influenza campaigns. Countries like Canada, the UK, and the US have integrated these efforts, while others maintain more independent or heterogeneous approaches. In addition, timely booster doses, whether administered annually or more frequently in high-risk settings, consistently reduce infection rates and hospitalizations.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings collectively support the continued evolution of COVID-19 vaccination programs toward integrated, seasonally aligned strategies. Future public health efforts can build on these lessons not only to sustain protection against SARS-CoV-2 but also to strengthen preparedness for other respiratory infections.},
}

@article {pmid40733602,
year = {2025},
author = {Aljabali, AAA and Lundstrom, K and Hromić-Jahjefendić, A and El-Baky, NA and Nawn, D and Hassan, SS and Rubio-Casillas, A and Redwan, EM and Uversky, VN},
title = {The XEC Variant: Genomic Evolution, Immune Evasion, and Public Health Implications.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17070985},
pmid = {40733602},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immune Evasion ; *COVID-19/virology/immunology/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology/classification ; Public Health ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/immunology ; Genome, Viral ; Mutation ; },
abstract = {Narrative review synthesizes the most current literature on the SARS-CoV-2 XEC variant, focusing on its genomic evolution, immune evasion characteristics, epidemiological dynamics, and public health implications. To achieve this, we conducted a structured search of the literature of peer-reviewed articles, preprints, and official surveillance data from 2023 to early 2025, prioritizing virological, clinical, and immunological reports related to XEC and its parent lineages. Defined by the distinctive spike protein mutations, T22N and Q493E, XEC exhibits modest reductions in neutralization in vitro, although current evidence suggests that mRNA booster vaccines, including those targeting JN.1 and KP.2, retain cross-protective efficacy against symptomatic and severe disease. The XEC strain of SARS-CoV-2 has drawn particular attention due to its increasing prevalence in multiple regions and its potential to displace other Omicron subvariants, although direct evidence of enhanced replicative fitness is currently lacking. Preliminary analyses also indicated that glycosylation changes at the N-terminal domain enhance infectivity and immunological evasion, which is expected to underpin the increasing prevalence of XEC. The XEC variant, while still emerging, is marked by a unique recombination pattern and a set of spike protein mutations (T22N and Q493E) that collectively demonstrate increased immune evasion potential and epidemiological expansion across Europe and North America. Current evidence does not conclusively associate XEC with greater disease severity, although additional research is required to determine its clinical relevance. Key knowledge gaps include the precise role of recombination events in XEC evolution and the duration of cross-protective T-cell responses. New research priorities include genomic surveillance in undersampled regions, updated vaccine formulations against novel spike epitopes, and long-term longitudinal studies to monitor post-acute sequelae. These efforts can be augmented by computational modeling and the One Health approach, which combines human and veterinary sciences. Recent computational findings (GISAID, 2024) point to the potential of XEC for further mutations in under-surveilled reservoirs, enhancing containment challenges and risks. Addressing the potential risks associated with the XEC variant is expected to benefit from interdisciplinary coordination, particularly in regions where genomic surveillance indicates a measurable increase in prevalence.},
}

Humans
*Immune Evasion
*COVID-19/virology/immunology/epidemiology/prevention & control
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology/classification
Public Health
*Evolution, Molecular
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/immunology
Genome, Viral
Mutation

@article {pmid40733600,
year = {2025},
author = {Debat, H and Bejerman, N},
title = {An Update on RNA Virus Discovery: Current Challenges and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17070983},
pmid = {40733600},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {*RNA Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; Humans ; Animals ; *RNA Virus Infections/virology/transmission/epidemiology ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging/virology ; Zoonoses/virology ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {The relentless emergence of RNA viruses poses a perpetual threat to global public health, necessitating continuous efforts in surveillance, discovery, and understanding of these pathogens. This review provides a comprehensive update on recent advancements in RNA virus discovery, highlighting breakthroughs in technology and methodologies that have significantly enhanced our ability to identify novel viruses across diverse host organisms. We explore the expanding landscape of viral diversity, emphasizing the discovery of previously unknown viral families and the role of zoonotic transmissions in shaping the viral ecosystem. Additionally, we discuss the potential implications of RNA virus discovery on disease emergence and pandemic preparedness. Despite remarkable progress, current challenges in sample collection, data interpretation, and the characterization of newly identified viruses persist. Our ability to anticipate and respond to emerging respiratory threats relies on virus discovery as a cornerstone for understanding RNA virus evolution. We address these challenges and propose future directions for research, emphasizing the integration of multi-omic approaches, advanced computational tools, and international collaboration to overcome barriers in the field. This comprehensive overview aims to guide researchers, policymakers, and public health professionals in navigating the intricate landscape of RNA virus discovery, fostering a proactive and collaborative approach to anticipate and mitigate emerging viral threats.},
}

*RNA Viruses/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
Humans
Animals
*RNA Virus Infections/virology/transmission/epidemiology
Communicable Diseases, Emerging/virology
Zoonoses/virology
Public Health

@article {pmid40733577,
year = {2025},
author = {Tan, BEK and Tham, SK and Poh, CL},
title = {mRNA Vaccine Development in the Fight Against Zoonotic Viral Diseases.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17070960},
pmid = {40733577},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Vaccine Development ; *Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology ; *Viral Zoonoses/prevention & control/immunology ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Zoonotic diseases are transmitted from animals to humans, and they impose a significant global burden by impacting both animal and human health. It can lead to substantial economic losses and cause millions of human deaths. The emergence and re-emergence of zoonotic diseases are heavily influenced by both anthropogenic and natural drivers such as climate change, rapid urbanization, and widespread travel. Over time, the unprecedented rise of new and re-emerging zoonotic diseases has prompted the need for rapid and effective vaccine development. Following the success of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, mRNA-based platforms hold great promise due to their rapid design, swift development and ability to elicit robust immune responses, thereby highlighting their potential in combating emerging and pre-pandemic zoonotic viruses. In recent years, several mRNA vaccines targeting emerging and re-emerging zoonotic viral diseases, such as rabies, Nipah, Zika, and influenza, have advanced to clinical trials, demonstrating promising immunogenicity. This review explores recent advances, challenges, and future directions in developing mRNA vaccines against emerging and re-emerging zoonotic viral diseases.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Vaccine Development
*Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology
*Viral Zoonoses/prevention & control/immunology
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control

@article {pmid40733537,
year = {2025},
author = {Elsharabassi, YK and Swaidan, NT and Emara, MM},
title = {Potential Resistance Mechanisms Exhibited by Cystic Fibrosis Patients Against SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17070919},
pmid = {40733537},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cystic Fibrosis/immunology/genetics/virology/complications ; *COVID-19/immunology/genetics/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/genetics/metabolism ; Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator/genetics/metabolism ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics ; *Disease Resistance ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the causative agent of the 2019 coronavirus disease pandemic. The virus primarily spreads through person-to-person contact via aerosols and droplets, contributing to high case numbers and related morbidities. SARS-CoV-2 targets the respiratory tract, causing acute respiratory distress syndrome, particularly in immunocompromised individuals such as those with cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is a life-threatening genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, leading to impaired respiratory function and recurrent severe respiratory symptoms. Despite their potential vulnerability, CF patients have shown a lower incidence of severe COVID-19, suggesting protective factors against SARS-CoV-2. Differential expression of the ACE2 receptor, crucial for viral entry, and other host factors, such as TMPRSS2, may play a role in this resistance to SARS-CoV-2. Analyzing the genomics and transcriptomics profiles of CF patients could provide insights into potential resistance mechanisms. The potential resistance mechanisms include blood and extracellular ATP levels, a deleted/dysfunctional CFTR gene, ACE and ACE2 regulation and expression, ACE and ACE2 polymorphism effects, host proteins and SARS-CoV-2 interactions, and SMN1 and ACE/ACE2 interactions. This review discusses the underlying factors and potential resistance mechanisms contributing to CF patients' responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The review provides an opportunity to further investigate future therapy and research through understanding the underlying potential resistance mechanisms exhibited by CF patients against SARS-CoV-2, including ACE and ACE2 polymorphisms.},
}

Humans
*Cystic Fibrosis/immunology/genetics/virology/complications
*COVID-19/immunology/genetics/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/genetics/metabolism
Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator/genetics/metabolism
Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics
*Disease Resistance

@article {pmid40733521,
year = {2025},
author = {Mahajan, S and Mahajan, S and Patgiri, S},
title = {Association and Interaction of Epstein-Barr Virus with SARS-CoV-2 Infection-A Review.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17070903},
pmid = {40733521},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/complications/immunology ; *Herpesvirus 4, Human/physiology ; *Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/virology/complications/drug therapy ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; Virus Activation ; },
abstract = {Despite the significant decrease in SARS-CoV-2-related mortality, COVID-19 continues to impose a high public health burden due to the high rate of post-COVID-19 pathological conditions, broadly termed Long COVID, that continue for any period of time and are generally multisystemic. However, recent studies have strengthened the evidence that the reactivation of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the post-COVID-19 era has significantly contributed to the exacerbation and prolongation of Long COVID symptoms. The mechanism and pathophysiology of EBV reactivation in Long COVID patients still need further exploration due to limited studies. This review summarises the various studies linking EBV reactivation in Long COVID along with its pathophysiology and novel therapeutics for EBV in a post-COVID-19 era.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/virology/complications/immunology
*Herpesvirus 4, Human/physiology
*Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/virology/complications/drug therapy
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
Virus Activation

@article {pmid40733499,
year = {2025},
author = {Triggle, CR and MacDonald, R},
title = {COVID-19 and a Tale of Three Drugs: To Repurpose, or Not to Repurpose-That Was the Question.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v17070881},
pmid = {40733499},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Repositioning ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Hydroxychloroquine/therapeutic use ; Ivermectin/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Antimalarials/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) declared a global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that earlier in February 2020 the WHO had named COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019). There were neither drugs nor vaccines that were known to be effective against the virus, stimulating an urgent worldwide search for treatments. An evaluation of existing drugs by 'repurposing' was initiated followed by a transition to de novo drug discovery. Repurposing of an already approved drug may accelerate the introduction of that drug into clinical use by circumventing early, including preclinical studies otherwise essential for a de novo drug and reducing development costs. Early in the pandemic three drugs were identified as repurposing candidates for the treatment of COVID-19: (i) hydroxychloroquine, an anti-malarial also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and lupus; (ii) ivermectin, an antiparasitic approved for both human and veterinary use; (iii) remdesivir, an anti-viral originally developed to treat hepatitis C. The scientific evidence, both for and against the efficacy of these three drugs as treatments for COVID-19, vied with public demand and politicization as unqualified opinions clashed with evidence-based medicine. To quote Hippocrates, "There are in fact two things, science and opinion; the former begets knowledge, the latter ignorance".},
}

Humans
*Drug Repositioning
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Hydroxychloroquine/therapeutic use
Ivermectin/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Antimalarials/therapeutic use
COVID-19

@article {pmid40733290,
year = {2025},
author = {Pawłowska, M and Nuszkiewicz, J and Jarek, DJ and Woźniak, A},
title = {Ferroptosis and Metabolic Dysregulation: Emerging Chemical Targets in Cancer and Infection.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {30},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40733290},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {*Ferroptosis/drug effects ; Humans ; *Neoplasms/metabolism/drug therapy/pathology ; Lipid Peroxidation ; Animals ; COVID-19/metabolism ; Oxidative Stress ; Iron/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The distinctive nature of ferroptosis is that it is induced chemically and signifies a regulated cell death dependent on iron-dependent lipid peroxidation. The mechanism of ferroptosis involves oxidative damage to the membrane lipids. It differs from apoptosis and necroptosis, triggering metabolic changes in the iron-lipid homeostasis and antioxidant defense, such as glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Herein, the molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis and its role in the tumorigenesis process and infection-related diseases are presented. It also discusses metabolic reprogramming as a factor that modifies the levels of cell-sensitizing polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), iron dysregulation, and oxidative stress in aggressive cancers and inflammatory diseases such as sepsis, tuberculosis, and COVID-19. Particular attention is given to chemical modulators of ferroptosis, including synthetic inducers and inhibitors, as well as bioactive natural compounds. Our focus is on the significance of analytical tools, such as lipidomics and metabolomics, in understanding the phenomenon of ferroptosis. Finally, we explore novel therapeutic approaches targeting ferroptosis in cancer and infectious diseases, while navigating both the opportunities and challenges in drug development. The review then draws on chemical biology and disease pathology to propose promising areas of study for ferroptosis-related therapies.},
}

*Ferroptosis/drug effects
Humans
*Neoplasms/metabolism/drug therapy/pathology
Lipid Peroxidation
Animals
COVID-19/metabolism
Oxidative Stress
Iron/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40733111,
year = {2025},
author = {Tufeu, M and Herkenne, C and Kalia, YN},
title = {Trends and Commonalities of Approved and Late Clinical-Phase RNA Therapeutics.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics17070903},
pmid = {40733111},
issn = {1999-4923},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: After many years of research and the successful development of therapeutic products by a few industrial actors, the COVID-19 vaccines brought messenger RNAs, as well as other nucleic acid modalities, such as antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNA, and aptamers, into the spotlight, eliciting renewed interest from both academia and industry. However, owing to their structure, relative "fragility", and the (usually) intracellular site of action, the delivery of these therapeutics has frequently proven to be a key limitation, especially when considering endosomal escape, which still needs to be overcome. Methods: By compiling delivery-related data on approved and late clinical-phase ribonucleic acid therapeutics, this review aims to assess the delivery strategies that have proven to be successful or are emerging, as well as areas where more research is needed. Results: In very specific cases, some strategies appeared to be quite effective, such as the N-acetylgalactosamine moiety in the case of liver delivery. Surprisingly, it also appears that for some modalities, efforts in molecular design have led to more "drug-like" properties, enablingthe administration of naked nucleic acids, without any form of encapsulation. This appears to be especially true when local administration, i.e., by injection, is possible, as this provides de facto targeting and a high local concentration, which can compensate for the small proportion of nucleic acids that reach the cytoplasm. Conclusions: Nucleic acid-based therapeutics have come a long way in terms of their physicochemical properties. However, due to their inherent limitations, targeting appears to be crucial for their efficacy, even more so than for traditional pharmaceutical modalities.},
}

@article {pmid40733041,
year = {2025},
author = {Shen, Y and Eades, W and Dinh, L and Yan, B},
title = {Carboxylesterase Factors Influencing the Therapeutic Activity of Common Antiviral Medications Used for SARS-CoV-2 Infection.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {17},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmaceutics17070832},
pmid = {40733041},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {R01AI172959//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for COVID-19, remains a major global health threat. The virus enters host cells by binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. Several small-molecule antiviral drugs, including molnupiravir, favipiravir, remdesivir, and nirmatrelvir have been shown to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication and are approved for treating SARS-CoV-2 infections. Nirmatrelvir inhibits the viral main protease (M[pro]), a key enzyme for processing polyproteins in viral replication. In contrast, molnupiravir, favipiravir, and remdesivir are prodrugs that target RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), which is crucial for genome replication and subgenomic RNA production. However, undergoing extensive metabolism profoundly impacts their therapeutic effects. Carboxylesterases (CES) are a family of enzymes that play an essential role in the metabolism of many drugs, especially prodrugs that require activation through hydrolysis. Molnupiravir is activated by carboxylesterase-2 (CES2), while remdesivir is hydrolytically activated by CES1 but inhibits CES2. Nirmatrelvir and remdesivir are oxidized by the same cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme. Additionally, various transporters are involved in the uptake or efflux of these drugs and/or their metabolites. It is well established that drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters are differentially expressed depending on the cell type, and these genes exhibit significant polymorphisms. In this review, we examine how CES-related cellular and genetic factors influence the therapeutic activities of these widely used COVID-19 medications. This article highlights implications for improving product design, targeted inhibition, and personalized medicine by exploring genetic variations and their impact on drug metabolism and efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid40732950,
year = {2025},
author = {Coşkun, N and Demir, R and Canbolat, AA and Sarıtaş, S and Pekdemir, B and Bechelany, M and Karav, S},
title = {Polyphenols as Antiviral Agents: Their Potential Against a Range of Virus Types.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {17},
number = {14},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nu17142325},
pmid = {40732950},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {*Polyphenols/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Animals ; *Viruses/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Polyphenols are structurally diverse plant metabolites that have attracted significant interest. Their compositions are versatile, depending on their structures, including the number of rings in the polyphenol composition. Based on these attributes, polyphenols can be classified as flavanols, anthocyanins, flavones, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans. Polyphenols mainly possess inhibition of viral replication, interference with viral protein synthesis, and modulation of immune responses, providing significant antiviral effects against several viruses, including herpes simplex virus, hepatitis C virus, and influenza. They are crucial for medical compounds in diverse, versatile treatments, namely in diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and neurodegenerative problems. Plants are the primary source of bioactive molecules, which are valued for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, and antiviral activities. Especially, polyphenols are extracted as the most abundant bioactive compounds of plants. Moreover, viral infections are one of the major factors in illnesses and diseases, along with bacteria and fungi. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies report antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, Mayaro virus, dengue virus, herpesvirus, and influenza A virus, though clinical validation remains limited. Additionally, inhibition of viral entry, interference with viral replication, modulation of host immune response, and direct virucidal effects were examined.},
}

*Polyphenols/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
Virus Replication/drug effects
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/virology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Animals
*Viruses/drug effects

@article {pmid40732763,
year = {2025},
author = {Gokalsing, E and Ferrolho, J and Gibson, MS and Vilhena, H and Anastácio, S},
title = {Efficacy of GS-441524 for Feline Infectious Peritonitis: A Systematic Review (2018-2024).},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens14070717},
pmid = {40732763},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Animals ; Cats ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Feline Infectious Peritonitis/drug therapy/virology ; Treatment Outcome ; *Adenosine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; },
abstract = {Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a severe viral disease with a very high fatality rate. GS-441524 is an adenosine analogue that acts as an antiviral and has shown promise in FIP treatment. However, its commercialization in some regions is not yet authorized. To evaluate the efficacy of GS-441524 based on the published literature, a systematic review was conducted. This systematic review was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar for studies published from 2018 onwards. Following PRISMA guidelines, 11 studies (totaling 650 FIP cases treated with GS-441524 alone or in combination) were included. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed by FIP form, clinical signs, and dosage. The overall treatment success rate was 84.6%. This rate was higher when GS-441524 was combined with other antivirals and lower in cases of wet FIP or those with neurological complications. Combination therapy with other antivirals may improve outcomes in complicated FIP cases, although further studies are needed. The GS-441524 dosages associated with the best outcomes were 5-10 mg/kg once daily (or equivalent subcutaneous dose), adjusted for FIP type, severity, and presence of neurological/ocular signs. Higher dosages can be used for severe cases or to prevent relapse, but splitting into twice-daily dosing may be necessary to avoid absorption issues. In summary, this synthesis indicates that GS-441524 is a highly promising treatment for FIP, with a high success rate among treated cases. Nevertheless, randomized controlled trials are needed to establish evidence-based therapeutic protocols tailored to different FIP presentations.},
}

Animals
Cats
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Feline Infectious Peritonitis/drug therapy/virology
Treatment Outcome
*Adenosine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Drug Therapy, Combination

@article {pmid40732065,
year = {2025},
author = {Anugu, A and Singh, P and Kashyap, D and Joseph, J and Naik, S and Sarkar, S and Zaman, K and Dhaliwal, M and Nagar, S and Gupta, T and Honnavar, P},
title = {PROTAC-Based Antivirals for Respiratory Viruses: A Novel Approach for Targeted Therapy and Vaccine Development.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms13071557},
pmid = {40732065},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The global burden of respiratory viral infections is notable, which is attributed to their higher transmissibility compared to other viral diseases. Respiratory viruses are seen to have evolved resistance to available treatment options. Although vaccines and antiviral drugs control some respiratory viruses, this control is limited due to unexpected events, such as mutations and the development of antiviral resistance. The technology of proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) has been emerging as a novel technology in viral therapeutics. These are small molecules that can selectively degrade target proteins via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. PROTACs as a therapy were initially developed against cancer, but they have recently shown promising results in their antiviral mechanisms by targeting viral and/or host proteins involved in the pathogenesis of viral infections. In this review, we elaborate on the antiviral potential of PROTACs as therapeutic agents and their potential as vaccine components against important respiratory viral pathogens, including influenza viruses, coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-2), and respiratory syncytial virus. Advanced applications of PROTAC antiviral strategies, such as hemagglutinin and neuraminidase degraders for influenza and spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, are detailed in this review. Additionally, the role of PROTACs in targeting cellular mechanisms within the host, thereby preventing viral pathogenesis and eliciting an antiviral effect, is discussed. The potential of PROTACs as vaccines, utilizing proteasome-based virus attenuation to achieve a robust protective immune response, while ensuring safety and enhancing efficient production, is also presented. With the promises exhibited by PROTACs, this technology faces significant challenges, including the emergence of novel viral strains, tissue-specific expression of E3 ligases, and pharmacokinetic constraints. With advanced computational design in molecular platforms, PROTAC-based antiviral development offers an alternative, transformative path in tackling respiratory viruses.},
}

@article {pmid40730911,
year = {2025},
author = {Aernout, I and Verbeke, R and Thery, F and Willems, P and Elia, U and De Smedt, SC and Rappuoli, R and Peer, D and Impens, F and Lentacker, I},
title = {Challenges and opportunities in mRNA vaccine development against bacteria.},
journal = {Nature microbiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40730911},
issn = {2058-5276},
support = {Baxerna 2.0 (101080544)//EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)/ ; Baxerna 2.0 (101080544)//EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)/ ; Expert (825828)//EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)/ ; Baxerna 2.0 (101080544)//EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)/ ; 1S40923N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (Research Foundation Flanders)/ ; 1275023N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (Research Foundation Flanders)/ ; 12T1722N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (Research Foundation Flanders)/ ; 12AN524N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (Research Foundation Flanders)/ ; ERC Adv. Grant # 101055029//EC | EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020 | H2020 Priority Excellent Science | H2020 European Research Council (H2020 Excellent Science - European Research Council)/ ; 2012/20//Israel Science Foundation (ISF)/ ; },
abstract = {The global surge in antimicrobial resistance presents a critical threat to public health, emphasizing the urgent need for the development of new and more effective bacterial vaccines. Since the success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, this vaccine strategy has rapidly advanced, with most efforts focused on cancer immunotherapy and targeting viral pathogens. Recently, mRNA vaccines have entered the early phases of clinical development for bacterial diseases. However, bacteria present greater biological complexity compared with viruses, posing additional challenges for vaccine design, such as antigen selection, immune response and mRNA construct design. Here, we discuss critical aspects in the development of bacterial mRNA vaccines, from antigen selection to construct design. We also highlight the current preclinical landscape and discuss remaining translational challenges and future potential for mRNA vaccines against bacterial infections.},
}

@article {pmid40726934,
year = {2025},
author = {Castro, MC and Ponmattam, J and FitzGerald, EA},
title = {Shocks and health care in Latin America and the Caribbean.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1604424},
pmid = {40726934},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Latin America/epidemiology ; Caribbean Region/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Disasters ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) is one of the most disaster-prone regions worldwide, and the frequency and intensity of disasters is expected to increase. We propose typologies of shocks considering healthcare resilience to examine how the risk of shocks varies across LAC and how previous shocks and their impacts in LAC fit into these categories.

METHODS: We classify shocks into natural, anthropogenic and climate-related, and build on the literature to develop a 2×2 classification considering health care resilience and trust in government. Using the INFORM risk we categorize countries into risk groups considering indicators of governance and access to healthcare as proxies for trust in government and health care resilience, respectively. We discuss the 2×2 classification considering examples of health impacts of shocks, highlighting strengths and weaknesses of national responses, and use excess death ratios during the COVID-19 pandemic to demonstrate how health impacts correspond to the 2×2 typology.

RESULTS: Based on the available literature, the proposed 2×2 classification reflects the recent consequences of shocks in LAC countries. Overall, areas where healthcare access and trust in government were weak had the most devastating impacts. However, strong access to healthcare is not a sufficient condition determining the impact of a shock, as evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic. For the most part, countries lack a detailed shock management plan.

DISCUSSION: Countries in the LAC region have historically been unprepared to manage shocks. In the absence of a comprehensive and multisectoral shock management plan, countries will continue to act in a reactive way, after a shock, as most of the examples discussed in our analysis illustrate. A shock management plan is an important step to build resilient health systems.},
}

Humans
Latin America/epidemiology
Caribbean Region/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
*Health Services Accessibility
*Disasters

@article {pmid40725228,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, J and Zhang, C and Li, B and Wu, Y},
title = {New Advances in Small Molecules Targeted at Viral Capsid-Genome Binding.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40725228},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {No. 20230204040YY//the Jilin Province Science and Technology Development Plan Project/ ; No. 21875085//project of NSFC/ ; No//the Innovation & Opening Program of the State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, Jilin University/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Genome, Viral/drug effects ; Humans ; *Capsid Proteins/metabolism/chemistry/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics/metabolism ; *Capsid/metabolism/drug effects ; Protein Binding/drug effects ; Dengue Virus/drug effects/genetics/metabolism ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; Hepatitis B virus/drug effects/genetics/metabolism ; *Small Molecule Libraries/pharmacology ; Binding Sites/drug effects ; Animals ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {The capsid protein plays a crucial role in the viral life cycle. By interacting with the viral genome, it facilitates the assembly of the nucleocapsid, ultimately leading to the formation of the viral particle. Therefore, interfering with or disrupting the interaction between the capsid protein and viral genome can effectively inhibit viral replication and infection. This review focuses on elucidating the binding mechanisms between the capsid protein and the viral genome, as well as their potential applications as therapeutic targets. In particular, it summarizes the research progress on small-molecule drugs targeting the capsid-genome binding sites of dengue virus, HBV, and SARS-CoV-2. Notably, this review provides a detailed discussion on the mechanisms by which these small-molecule inhibitors interfere with the capsid-genome interaction, aiming to offer inspiration for the future development of novel antiviral drugs targeting the capsid-genome binding.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Genome, Viral/drug effects
Humans
*Capsid Proteins/metabolism/chemistry/genetics
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics/metabolism
*Capsid/metabolism/drug effects
Protein Binding/drug effects
Dengue Virus/drug effects/genetics/metabolism
Virus Replication/drug effects
Hepatitis B virus/drug effects/genetics/metabolism
*Small Molecule Libraries/pharmacology
Binding Sites/drug effects
Animals
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid40725130,
year = {2025},
author = {Vail, KJ and Macha, BN and Hellmers, L and Fischer, T},
title = {Modeling Virus-Associated Central Nervous System Disease in Non-Human Primates.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40725130},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {P51OD011104//NIH ORIP/ ; K01OD036106//NIH ORIP/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *Disease Models, Animal ; Primates/virology ; Humans ; *Central Nervous System Diseases/virology ; Central Nervous System/virology ; *Virus Diseases/virology ; *Central Nervous System Viral Diseases/virology ; },
abstract = {While viral pathogens are often subdivided into neurotropic and non-neurotropic categories, systemic inflammation caused by non-neurotropic viruses still possesses the ability to alter the central nervous system (CNS). Studies of CNS disease induced by viral infection, whether neurotropic or not, are presented with a unique set of challenges. First, because brain biopsies are rarely necessary to diagnose viral-associated neurological disorders, antemortem tissue samples are not readily available for study and human pathological studies must rely on end-stage, postmortem evaluations. Second, in vitro models fail to fully capture the nuances of an intact immune system, necessitating the use of animal models to fully characterize pathogenesis and identify potential therapeutic approaches. Non-human primates (NHP) represent a particularly attractive animal model in that they overcome many of the limits posed by more distant species and most closely mirror human disease pathogenesis and susceptibility. Here, we review NHP infection models of viruses known to infect and/or replicate within cells of the CNS, including West Nile virus, the equine encephalitis viruses, Zika virus, and herpesviruses, as well as those known to alter the immune status of the brain in the absence of significant CNS penetrance, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the current era of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) and the coronavirus of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-CoV-2. This review focuses on viruses with an established role in causing CNS disease, including encephalitis, meningitis, and myelitis and NHP models of viral infection that are directly translatable to the human condition through relevant routes of infection, comparable disease pathogenesis, and responses to therapeutic intervention.},
}

Animals
*Disease Models, Animal
Primates/virology
Humans
*Central Nervous System Diseases/virology
Central Nervous System/virology
*Virus Diseases/virology
*Central Nervous System Viral Diseases/virology

@article {pmid40724980,
year = {2025},
author = {Szataniak, I and Packi, K},
title = {Melatonin as the Missing Link Between Sleep Deprivation and Immune Dysregulation: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {40724980},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Melatonin/metabolism/immunology ; Humans ; *Sleep Deprivation/immunology/metabolism ; COVID-19/immunology ; Animals ; Inflammation/immunology ; Cytokines/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Oxidative Stress ; },
abstract = {Sleep deprivation impairs immune function, and melatonin has emerged as a key mediator in this process. This narrative review analyzes 50 studies published between 2000 and 2025 to determine the extent to which reduced melatonin synthesis contributes to immune dysregulation. Consistent sleep loss lowers melatonin levels, which correlates with elevated proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6 and TNF-α), increased oxidative stress, and reduced immune cell activity, including that of natural killer (NK) cells and CD4+ lymphocytes. Melatonin regulates immune pathways, including NF-κB signaling. It also supports mitochondrial health and helps maintain gut barrier integrity. These effects are particularly relevant in vulnerable populations, including older adults and shift workers. Experimental findings also highlight melatonin's therapeutic potential in infections like SARS-CoV-2, where it modulates inflammatory responses and viral entry mechanisms. Despite the heterogeneity of study methodologies, a consistent correlation emerges between circadian disruption, melatonin suppression, and immune imbalance. These findings underscore melatonin's dual role as a chronobiotic and immunomodulator. Addressing sleep loss and considering melatonin-based interventions may help restore immune homeostasis. More clinical trials are needed to determine the best dosing, long-term efficacy, and population-specific strategies for supplementation. Promoting healthy sleep is crucial for preventing chronic inflammation and diseases associated with immune dysfunction.},
}

*Melatonin/metabolism/immunology
Humans
*Sleep Deprivation/immunology/metabolism
COVID-19/immunology
Animals
Inflammation/immunology
Cytokines/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Oxidative Stress

@article {pmid40668265,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, OJ and Keating, A},
title = {Mesenchymal stromal cells: an update.},
journal = {Current opinion in hematology},
volume = {32},
number = {5},
pages = {270-278},
doi = {10.1097/MOH.0000000000000887},
pmid = {40668265},
issn = {1531-7048},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mesenchymal Stem Cells/metabolism/immunology/cytology ; *COVID-19/therapy/immunology ; *Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; MicroRNAs/genetics ; Animals ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are widely utilized in preclinical and clinical studies, with over 1500 clinical trials, including applications in Covid-19 treatment. This review consolidates recent advances in understanding MSC biology, mechanisms of action, and clinical utility.

RECENT FINDINGS: This review discusses recent progress made in understanding MSC biology, including immunomodulatory mechanisms mediated by microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs. Clinically, MSC therapies have shown promise in treating conditions like Covid-19-associated ARDS and several MSC therapeutic products have been approved. Single-cell analyses have shed light on MSC heterogeneity, revealing tissue-specific and conserved subpopulations influenced by the extracellular matrix. The FDA's updated recommendations on potency assays emphasize a holistic approach to quality control, reinforcing the need for a universal reference standard to improve reproducibility and clinical outcomes. In addition, to better understand their limited success in randomized clinical trials, we highlight the importance of a universal reference standard for MSC potency.

SUMMARY: MSCs offer significant therapeutic potential, but addressing challenges in heterogeneity and potency standardization is essential. Advances in understanding their immune properties and clinical applications provide opportunities to refine and expand their use in regenerative medicine.},
}

Humans
*Mesenchymal Stem Cells/metabolism/immunology/cytology
*COVID-19/therapy/immunology
*Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation/methods
*SARS-CoV-2
MicroRNAs/genetics
Animals

@article {pmid40667838,
year = {2025},
author = {de Paula, MML and Oliveira, RTR and Hottz, ED},
title = {Platelets and platelet-leukocyte interactions in infectious diseases.},
journal = {Current opinion in hematology},
volume = {32},
number = {5},
pages = {261-269},
doi = {10.1097/MOH.0000000000000878},
pmid = {40667838},
issn = {1531-7048},
mesh = {Humans ; *Blood Platelets/immunology/pathology/metabolism ; *Leukocytes/immunology/pathology/metabolism ; *Communicable Diseases/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology ; Animals ; Platelet Activation ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; *Cell Communication ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Platelets are essential effector cells in the immune continuum. Understanding platelet roles during infectious diseases is paramount to understanding pathological and protective immune responses. In this review, we compiled recent data about platelets in immune response to infectious diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS: Platelets recognize and respond to pathogens, including viruses, bacteria and parasites, contributing to the assembly of the immune response. Platelet activation and platelet-leukocyte aggregates formation have been observed in naturally infected humans and in experimental models of diseases. In this review we discuss recent findings on the mechanisms and outcomes of platelet activation and platelet-leukocyte interaction in infectious diseases and response to vaccine. Pathogens may modulate platelet response to escape immune surveillance, but platelets still contribute to host defense. We compiled evidence of platelet mediated-pathological responses, but also their contributions to pathogen clearance. We focused on the participation of platelets in pathophysiological and protective responses in infectious diseases of global impact such as COVID-19, HIV-1, viral hemorrhagic fevers, bacterial sepsis and parasite infections.

SUMMARY: Platelets contribute to protective and pathological responses by regulating innate and adaptive immunity through activation, hyperaggregability and directly interacting with pathogens. Even though many mechanisms underlying platelet roles in infectious disease have been revealed, much remains to be investigated.},
}

Humans
*Blood Platelets/immunology/pathology/metabolism
*Leukocytes/immunology/pathology/metabolism
*Communicable Diseases/immunology
COVID-19/immunology
Animals
Platelet Activation
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Immunity, Innate
*Cell Communication

@article {pmid40729168,
year = {2023},
author = {Vlasova-St Louis, I and Fang, D and Amer, Y and Mohei, H},
title = {COVID-19-Omics Report: From Individual Omics Approaches to Precision Medicine.},
journal = {Reports (MDPI)},
volume = {6},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/reports6040045},
pmid = {40729168},
issn = {2571-841X},
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became apparent that precision medicine relies heavily on biological multi-omics discoveries. High throughput omics technologies, such as host genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenomics, metabolomics/lipidomics, and microbiomics, have become an integral part of precision diagnostics. The large number of data generated by omics technologies allows for the identification of vulnerable demographic populations that are susceptible to poor disease outcomes. Additionally, these data help to pinpoint the omics-based biomarkers that are currently driving advancements in precision and preventive medicine, such as early diagnosis and disease prognosis, individualized treatments, and vaccination. This report summarizes COVID-19-omic studies, highlights the results of completed and ongoing omics investigations in individuals who have experienced severe disease outcomes, and examines the impact that repurposed/novel antiviral drugs, targeted immunotherapeutics, and vaccines have had on individual and public health.},
}

@article {pmid40724691,
year = {2025},
author = {Pennisi, F and Borlini, S and Cuciniello, R and D'Amelio, AC and Calabretta, R and Pinto, A and Signorelli, C},
title = {Improving Vaccine Coverage Among Older Adults and High-Risk Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Hospital-Based Strategies.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {14},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13141667},
pmid = {40724691},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Adult vaccination remains suboptimal, particularly among older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. Hospitals represent a strategic setting for improving vaccination coverage among these high-risk populations. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated hospital-based interventions aimed at enhancing vaccine uptake in adults aged ≥60 years or 18-64 years with at-risk medical conditions. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA and MOOSE guidelines. Searches in PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus identified studies published in the last 10 years evaluating hospital-based interventions reporting vaccination uptake. The risk of bias was assessed using validated tools (NOS, RoB 2, ROBINS-I, QI-MQCS). A meta-analysis was conducted for categories with ≥3 eligible studies reporting pre- and post-intervention vaccination coverage in the same population. Results: We included 44 studies. Multi-component strategies (n = 21) showed the most consistent results (e.g., pneumococcal uptake from 2.2% to 43.4%, p < 0.001). Reminder-based interventions (n = 4) achieved influenza coverage increases from 31.0% to 68.0% and a COVID-19 booster uptake boost of +38% after SMS reminders. Educational strategies (n = 11) varied in effectiveness, with one study reporting influenza coverage rising from 1.6% to 12.2% (+662.5%, OR 8.86, p < 0.01). Standing order protocols increased pneumococcal vaccination from 10% to 60% in high-risk adults. Hospital-based catch-up programs improved DTaP-IPV uptake from 56.2% to 80.8% (p < 0.001). For patient education, the pooled OR was 2.11 (95% CI: 1.96-2.27; p < 0.001, I[2] = 97.2%) under a fixed-effects model, and 2.47 (95% CI: 1.53-3.98; p < 0.001) under a random-effects model. For multi-component strategies, the OR was 2.39 (95% CI: 2.33-2.44; p < 0.001, I[2] = 98.0%) with fixed effects, and 3.12 (95% CI: 2.49-3.92; p < 0.001) with random effects. No publication bias was detected. Conclusions: Hospital-based interventions, particularly those using multi-component approaches, effectively improve vaccine coverage in older and high-risk adults. Embedding vaccination into routine hospital care offers a scalable opportunity to reduce disparities and enhance population-level protection. Future policies should prioritize the institutional integration of such strategies to support healthy aging and vaccine equity.},
}

@article {pmid40724506,
year = {2025},
author = {Kostorz-Nosal, S and Kowaliński, M and Spyra, A and Gałuszka, B and Skoczyński, S},
title = {The Application of Ultrasonography in the Detection of Airway Obstruction: A Promising Area of Research or Unnecessary Gadgetry?.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life15071003},
pmid = {40724506},
issn = {2075-1729},
support = {BNW-1-118/N/4/K//Medical University of Silesia/ ; },
abstract = {Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the utilization of transthoracic ultrasonography (TTU) in the evaluation of pulmonary field artefacts has become standard practice among clinicians. However, there is a considerable lack of knowledge regarding the assessment of diaphragm mobility in the context of various lung diseases. Although numerous conditions are known to affect diaphragm mobility, including neurological, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases, it appears that pulmonary diseases may also limit the mobility of this major respiratory muscle. Despite the evidence of diaphragm mobility disorders in patients diagnosed with lung cancer, there is a discrepancy in the literature regarding the function of the diaphragm in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A shared aetiological factor frequently results in the co-occurrence of the aforementioned diseases. It is, however, possible to detect patients whose obstructive airway disease is caused only by the compression of infiltrative and nodal lesions rather than COPD. Bilateral TTU of diaphragmatic mobility in correlation with other available pulmonary function tests and radiological imaging may prove to be a valuable approach to isolating lung cancer patients with COPD overdiagnosis. Conversely, the overdiagnosis of COPD has been implicated in the potentially unnecessary and harmful use of inhaled medications with their adverse effects (e.g., cardiac arrhythmias, limb tremor, cough, and pneumonia), the failure to decrease obstruction in cases of other lung disorders, and the potential to contribute to the delayed diagnosis of the underlying condition responsible for the respiratory symptoms. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the utilization of ultrasound in the evaluation of diaphragm movement impairments for the detection of obstructions while also delineating the underlying limitations of this technique. Moreover, we propose a diagnostic algorithm for the purpose of excluding unilateral obstruction resulting from infiltrative neoplastic masses based on the ultrasound assessment of diaphragmatic mobility.},
}

@article {pmid40724216,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, Q},
title = {Early Warning Signs for Monitoring Airborne Respiratory Virus Transmission.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph22071151},
pmid = {40724216},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Air Microbiology ; COVID-19/transmission ; Aerosols/analysis ; *Environmental Monitoring/methods ; },
abstract = {Airborne respiratory viruses (e.g., influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2) continue to pose a serious threat to global public health due to their ability to spread through multiple transmission pathways. Among these, aerosol transmission stands out as a key route, particularly in enclosed environments. However, current monitoring systems have major limitations in sensitivity, standardization, and high time resolution. This study provides a summary of the latest information on the monitoring technologies for respiratory virus aerosols. It discusses the technical and ethical challenges in real-world applications. In addition, this study proposes practical solutions and future development pathways. The aim of this study is to provide theoretical support for building a dynamic, precise, and effective early warning system for monitoring variants of airborne respiratory viruses.},
}

Humans
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Air Microbiology
COVID-19/transmission
Aerosols/analysis
*Environmental Monitoring/methods

@article {pmid40724171,
year = {2025},
author = {Liscano, Y and Anillo Arrieta, LA and Montenegro, JF and Prieto-Alvarado, D and Ordoñez, J},
title = {Early Warning of Infectious Disease Outbreaks Using Social Media and Digital Data: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph22071104},
pmid = {40724171},
issn = {1660-4601},
support = {Dirección General de Investigaciones of Universidad Santiago de Cali under call No. DGI-01-2025//Universidad Santiago de Cali/ ; },
abstract = {Background and Aim: Digital surveillance, which utilizes data from social media, search engines, and other online platforms, has emerged as an innovative approach for the early detection of infectious disease outbreaks. This scoping review aimed to systematically map and characterize the methodologies, performance metrics, and limitations of digital surveillance tools compared to traditional epidemiological monitoring. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute and PRISMA-SCR guidelines. Scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched, incorporating both empirical studies and systematic reviews without language restrictions. Key elements analyzed included digital sources, analytical algorithms, accuracy metrics, and validation against official surveillance data. Results: The reviewed studies demonstrate that digital surveillance can provide significant lead times (from days to several weeks) compared to traditional systems. While performance varies by platform and disease, many models showed strong correlations (r > 0.8) with official case data and achieved low predictive errors, particularly for influenza and COVID-19. Google Trends and X (formerly Twitter) emerged as the most frequently used sources, often analyzed using supervised regression, Bayesian models, and ARIMA techniques. Conclusions: While digital surveillance shows strong predictive capabilities, it faces challenges related to data quality and representativeness. Key recommendations include the development of standardized reporting guidelines to improve comparability across studies, the use of statistical techniques like stratification and model weighting to mitigate demographic biases, and leveraging advanced artificial intelligence to differentiate genuine health signals from media-driven noise. These steps are crucial for enhancing the reliability and equity of digital epidemiological monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid40724121,
year = {2025},
author = {Komeiha, M and Artyukh, I and Ogundele, OJ and Zhao, QJ and Massaquoi, N and Straus, S and Razak, F and Hosseini, B and Persaud, N and Mishra, S and Eissa, A and Isabel, M and Pinto, AD},
title = {Unveiling the Impact: A Scoping Review of the COVID-19 Pandemic's Effects on Racialized Populations in Canada.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {22},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph22071054},
pmid = {40724121},
issn = {1660-4601},
support = {N/A//Emerging and Pandemic Infections Consortium - Institute for Pandemics, University of Toronto/ ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on racialized communities and individuals in Canada.

METHODS: This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and the PRISMA-ScR guidance on reporting scoping reviews. Ovid MEDLINE ALL, Embase Classic + Embase, CINAHL (Ebsco platform), PsycINFO, and Cochrane were searched for documents that were published after March 2020 and that reported on the social and economic impacts and health outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic on generally healthy racialized populations that reside in Canada.

SYNTHESIS: A total of 39 documents were included in this review. Our results show racialized communities faced greater social, economic, and health impacts from the pandemic. These impacts were manifested in the form of high COVID-19 morbidity and mortality rates, increased discrimination, worsening mental health, difficulty in accessing healthcare, and challenges related to accessing food and basic necessities.

CONCLUSION: Canadian racialized groups have been inequitably affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to pre-existing inequalities and emerging discrimination. Responsive policy action and robust pandemic preparedness efforts are indispensable in adopting a proactive stance to prevent racialized populations from bearing a disproportionate burden of negative health crises in the future. This necessitates addressing pre-existing disparities and targeting social and economic vulnerability areas. By doing so, we can mitigate the reported social, economic, and health impacts experienced by racialized groups, including challenges related to accessing basic necessities, deteriorating mental health, and barriers to healthcare access.},
}

@article {pmid40723962,
year = {2025},
author = {Eke, SM and Cua, A},
title = {Invisible Engines of Resistance: How Global Inequities Drive Antimicrobial Failure.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics14070659},
pmid = {40723962},
issn = {2079-6382},
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is considered a global healthcare emergency in the 21st century. Although the evolution of microorganisms through Darwinian mechanisms and antibiotic misuse are established drivers, the structural socioeconomic factors of AMR remain insufficiently explored. This review takes on an analytical perspective, drawing upon a wide spectrum of evidence to examine the extent to which socioeconomic factors contribute to the global proliferation of AMR, with an emphasis on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The analytical review at hand was carried out through a search for relevant articles and reviews on PubMed, Google Scholar, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization database using combinations of the keywords "antimicrobial resistance," "socioeconomic factors," "low- and middle-income countries," "surveillance," "healthcare access," and "agriculture." Preference was given to systematic reviews, high-impact primary studies, and policy documents published in peer-reviewed journals or by reputable global health organizations. Our analysis identifies a complex interplay of systemic vulnerabilities that accelerate AMR in resource-limited settings. A lack of regulatory frameworks regarding non-prescription antibiotic use enables the proliferation of multi-drug-resistant microorganisms. Low sewer connectivity facilitates the environmental dissemination of resistance genes. Proper antibiotic selection is hindered by subpar healthcare systems and limited diagnostic capabilities to deliver appropriate treatment. Additionally, gender disparities, forced migration, and climate-driven zoonotic transmission compound the burden. During the COVID-19 pandemic, antimicrobial misuse surged, further amplifying resistance trends. AMR is not solely a biological phenomenon, but a manifestation of global inequity. Mitigation requires a transformation of policy directed toward a "One Health" strategy that incorporates socioeconomic, environmental, and health system reforms. Strengthening surveillance, investing in infrastructure, regulating pharmaceutical practices, and promoting health equity are essential to curb the rising tide of resistance.},
}

@article {pmid40723899,
year = {2025},
author = {Camps, J and Iftimie, S and Jiménez-Franco, A and Castro, A and Joven, J},
title = {Metabolic Reprogramming in Respiratory Viral Infections: A Focus on SARS-CoV-2, Influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom15071027},
pmid = {40723899},
issn = {2218-273X},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; *COVID-19/metabolism/virology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/metabolism/virology ; *Influenza, Human/metabolism/virology ; Respiratory Syncytial Viruses/metabolism ; Orthomyxoviridae/metabolism ; Metabolic Reprogramming ; },
abstract = {Respiratory infections caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus pose significant global health challenges, leading to high morbidity and mortality, particularly in vulnerable populations. Despite their distinct virological characteristics, these viruses exploit host cellular metabolism to support replication, modulate immune responses, and promote disease progression. Emerging evidence shows that they induce metabolic reprogramming, shifting cellular energy production toward glycolysis to meet the bioenergetic demands of viral replication. Additionally, alterations in lipid metabolism, including enhanced fatty acid synthesis and disrupted cholesterol homeostasis, facilitate viral entry, replication, and immune evasion. The dysregulation of mitochondrial function and oxidative stress pathways also contributes to disease severity and long-term complications, such as persistent inflammation and immune exhaustion. Understanding these metabolic shifts is crucial for identifying new therapeutic targets and novel biomarkers for early disease detection, prognosis, and patient stratification. This review provides an overview of the metabolic alterations induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, influenza virus, and respiratory syncytial virus, highlighting shared and virus-specific mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
*COVID-19/metabolism/virology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/metabolism/virology
*Influenza, Human/metabolism/virology
Respiratory Syncytial Viruses/metabolism
Orthomyxoviridae/metabolism
Metabolic Reprogramming

@article {pmid40723879,
year = {2025},
author = {Chrostek, L and Cylwik, B},
title = {Hyaluronic Acid in Immune Response.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom15071008},
pmid = {40723879},
issn = {2218-273X},
mesh = {*Hyaluronic Acid/immunology/metabolism ; Humans ; Signal Transduction ; Animals ; COVID-19/immunology ; Cytokines/metabolism/immunology ; Inflammation/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {This review summarizes the available evidence on hyaluronic acid's (HA's) role in immune response. HA is one of many components in the extracellular matrix that transmits signals from the extracellular microenvironment to cellular effector systems in immune cells. The final effect of these interactions depends on the type of cells and receptors used and the size of HA particles. HA's activation of intracellular signaling pathways leads to an immune response involving the release of pro- or anti-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. These play a crucial role in defense mechanisms, such as protecting against pathogens and tissue healing after injuries. HA, as a signaling particle, is also involved in the intensification of the cytokine storm during COVID-19. Multifold increases in HA content in the lungs and the strength of its impact on the immune system define an "HA storm". The molecular mechanisms involved in inflammation and initiation, including the promotion of cancer, also begin in the microenvironment, and hyaluronic acid is a key element. In this paper, we focus on intra- and intercellular signaling pathways using HA participation rather than injection preparation based on HA use for esthetic treatment.},
}

*Hyaluronic Acid/immunology/metabolism
Humans
Signal Transduction
Animals
COVID-19/immunology
Cytokines/metabolism/immunology
Inflammation/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40723876,
year = {2025},
author = {Richardson, E and Mo, CC and Calabretta, E and Corrado, F and Kocoglu, MH and Baron, RM and Connors, JM and Iacobelli, M and Wei, LJ and Benjamin, EJ and Rapoport, AP and Díaz-Ricart, M and Martínez-Mellado, AJ and Carlo-Stella, C and Richardson, PG and Moraleda, JM},
title = {Defibrotide for Protecting Against and Managing Endothelial Injury in Hematologic Malignancies and COVID-19.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom15071004},
pmid = {40723876},
issn = {2218-273X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hematologic Neoplasms/drug therapy/complications/pathology ; *Polydeoxyribonucleotides/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *COVID-19/complications/pathology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Graft vs Host Disease/drug therapy ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/drug therapy ; *Fibrinolytic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Defibrotide, which is approved for treating hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD)/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), exhibits pleiotropic anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, and fibrinolytic properties, conferring broad endothelial protective effects. Given these mechanisms, defibrotide has potential utility in various conditions involving endothelial injury or activation. In this review we outline the endothelial-protective mechanisms of defibrotide and comprehensively summarize current evidence supporting its applications in hematologic malignancies, including the prevention and treatment of hepatic VOD/SOS, graft-versus-host disease, and transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy. Additionally, we discuss its role in mitigating key toxicities linked to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapies and bispecific antibodies, such as cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). We also explore emerging evidence on defibrotide's potential in SARS-CoV-2 infection-associated endotheliopathies, including acute COVID-19 and post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection ("long-COVID"), and the endothelial protective activity of defibrotide in these settings. Finally, we highlight potential future applications of defibrotide in hematologic malignancies and viral infections, emphasizing its multimodal mechanism of action.},
}

Humans
*Hematologic Neoplasms/drug therapy/complications/pathology
*Polydeoxyribonucleotides/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*COVID-19/complications/pathology/virology
SARS-CoV-2
Hepatic Veno-Occlusive Disease/drug therapy
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Graft vs Host Disease/drug therapy
Cytokine Release Syndrome/drug therapy
*Fibrinolytic Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology

@article {pmid40723102,
year = {2025},
author = {Rizzo, R and Fusto, G and Marino, S and Castagnola, I and Parano, C and Pappalardo, XG and Parano, E},
title = {Molecular and Neurobiological Imbalance from the Use of Technological Devices During Early Child Development Stages.},
journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/children12070909},
pmid = {40723102},
issn = {2227-9067},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Digital technologies have become increasingly integrated into the daily lives of children and adolescents, largely because their interactive and visually engaging design is particularly suited to the younger users. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, significantly lowering the average age of access to the digital devices. However, scientific consensus remains divided regarding the developmental impact of digital media use-particularly its cognitive, motor, and emotional consequences-depending on whether the use is passive or active. This review aims to explore these effects across developmental stages, focusing on both behavioral and neurobiological dimensions, and to identify emerging risks and protective factors associated with digital engagement. Methods: A PRISMA review was conducted on the impact of digital media use among pre-school children and adolescents. Behavioral, psychosocial, and neurobiological aspects were examined, with specific attention to epigenetic changes, techno-stress, digital overstimulation, and immersive technologies (e.g., virtual and augmented reality). Results: The findings suggest that passive digital consumption is more often associated with negative outcomes, such as impaired attention and emotional regulation, especially in younger children. Active and guided use may offer cognitive benefits. Neurobiological research indicates that chronic exposure to digital stimuli may affect stress regulation and neural development, possibly via epigenetic mechanisms. Effects vary across developmental stages and individual vulnerabilities. Conclusions: A nuanced understanding of digital engagement is essential. While certain technologies can support development, excessive or unguided use may pose risks. This review provides age-specific recommendations to foster balanced and healthy technology use in children and adolescents.},
}

@article {pmid40722944,
year = {2025},
author = {Cárdenas-Rodríguez, N and Ignacio-Mejía, I and Mejía-Barradas, CM and Ortega-Cuellar, D and Muñoz-González, F and Vargas-Hernández, MA and Albores-Méndez, EM and Ibáñez-Cervantes, G and Medina-Santillán, R and Hernández-Ortiz, A and Herrera-López, E and Bandala, C},
title = {Post-COVID Condition and Neuroinflammation: Possible Management with Antioxidants.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox14070840},
pmid = {40722944},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {Post-COVID condition (PCC) is a complex syndrome characterized by the persistence of diverse symptoms-including respiratory, neurological, and psychiatric manifestations-that last for weeks or months after acute Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Epidemiological data indicate a higher prevalence among women and older adults, with significant impacts on daily functioning. The pathophysiology of PCC is multifactorial, involving immune dysregulation, viral persistence, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress, all of which contribute to sustained neuroinflammation. This narrative review examines the clinical features, risk factors, and current evidence on antioxidant-based interventions as potential therapeutic strategies for PCC. A wide range of compounds-including vitamins, polyphenols, and endogenous antioxidants-have shown promise in mitigating neuroinflammation and oxidative damage in both clinical and experimental settings. Antioxidants may help restore redox balance and improve neurological outcomes in affected patients. However, further clinical research is essential to determine their efficacy, safety, and optimal therapeutic protocols.},
}

@article {pmid40722812,
year = {2025},
author = {Kim, B and Han, N},
title = {Periodontal Pathobionts and Respiratory Diseases: Mechanisms of Interaction and Implications for Interdisciplinary Care.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {13},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomedicines13071741},
pmid = {40722812},
issn = {2227-9059},
support = {NSFC No. 81500844//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease that has been increasingly recognized for its systemic impacts, including its connection to respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), asthma, lung cancer, and COVID-19. This review explores the potential role of periodontal pathobionts, particularly Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Treponema denticola (Td), Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn), Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa), and Tannerella forsythia (Tf), in respiratory health. These pathobionts contribute to respiratory diseases by facilitating pathogen adhesion, inducing epithelial cell apoptosis, and promoting inflammation. The review also highlights the beneficial effects of periodontal treatment in reducing pathobiont burden and systemic inflammation, thereby mitigating the risk of respiratory complications. This interdisciplinary approach underscores the need to consider oral health as a critical component in managing and preventing respiratory diseases, with future research needed to further clarify these associations and develop targeted interventions.},
}

@article {pmid40722579,
year = {2025},
author = {Caliman Sturdza, OA and Filip, F and Terteliu Baitan, M and Dimian, M},
title = {Deep Learning Network Selection and Optimized Information Fusion for Enhanced COVID-19 Detection: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {14},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diagnostics15141830},
pmid = {40722579},
issn = {2075-4418},
abstract = {The rapid spread of COVID-19 increased the need for speedy diagnostic tools, which led scientists to conduct extensive research on deep learning (DL) applications that use chest imaging, such as chest X-ray (CXR) and computed tomography (CT). This review examines the development and performance of DL architectures, notably convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and emerging vision transformers (ViTs), in identifying COVID-19-related lung abnormalities. Individual ResNet architectures, along with CNN models, demonstrate strong diagnostic performance through the transfer protocol; however, ViTs provide better performance, with improved readability and reduced data requirements. Multimodal diagnostic systems now incorporate alternative methods, in addition to imaging, which use lung ultrasounds, clinical data, and cough sound evaluation. Information fusion techniques, which operate at the data, feature, and decision levels, enhance diagnostic performance. However, progress in COVID-19 detection is hindered by ongoing issues stemming from restricted and non-uniform datasets, as well as domain differences in image standards and complications with both diagnostic overfitting and poor generalization capabilities. Recent developments in COVID-19 diagnosis involve constructing expansive multi-noise information sets while creating clinical process-oriented AI algorithms and implementing distributed learning protocols for securing information security and system stability. While deep learning-based COVID-19 detection systems show strong potential for clinical application, broader validation, regulatory approvals, and continuous adaptation remain essential for their successful deployment and for preparing future pandemic response strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40722282,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdul Manan, H and de Jesus, R and Thaploo, D and Hummel, T},
title = {Mapping the Olfactory Brain: A Systematic Review of Structural and Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Changes Following COVID-19 Smell Loss.},
journal = {Brain sciences},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/brainsci15070690},
pmid = {40722282},
issn = {2076-3425},
support = {Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG CA 893/22-1, Project number 504505452)//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG CA 893/22-1, Project number 504505452)/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Olfactory dysfunction (OD)-including anosmia and hyposmia-is a common and often persistent outcome of viral infections. This systematic review consolidates findings from structural and functional MRI studies to explore how COVID-19 SARS-CoV-2-induced smell loss alters the brain. Considerable heterogeneity was observed across studies, influenced by differences in methodology, population characteristics, imaging timelines, and OD classification.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify MRI-based studies examining COVID-19's SARS-CoV-2 OD. Twenty-four studies were included and categorized based on imaging focus: (1) olfactory bulb (OB), (2) olfactory sulcus (OS), (3) grey and white matter changes, (4) task-based brain activation, and (5) resting-state functional connectivity. Demographic and imaging data were extracted and analyzed accordingly.

RESULTS: Structural imaging revealed consistent reductions in olfactory bulb volume (OBV) and olfactory sulcus depth (OSD), especially among individuals with OD persisting beyond three months, suggestive of inflammation and neurodegeneration in olfactory-associated regions like the orbitofrontal cortex and thalamus. Functional MRI studies showed increased connectivity in early-stage OD within regions such as the piriform and orbitofrontal cortices, possibly reflecting compensatory activity. In contrast, prolonged OD was associated with reduced activation and diminished connectivity, indicating a decline in olfactory processing capacity. Disruptions in the default mode network (DMN) and limbic areas further point to secondary cognitive and emotional effects. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) findings-such as decreased fractional anisotropy (FA) and increased mean diffusivity (MD)-highlight white matter microstructural compromise in individuals with long-term OD.

CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19's SARS-CoV-2 olfactory dysfunction is associated with a range of cerebral alterations that evolve with the duration and severity of smell loss. Persistent dysfunction correlates with greater neural damage, underscoring the need for longitudinal neuroimaging studies to better understand recovery dynamics and guide therapeutic strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40722204,
year = {2025},
author = {Thiha, N and Soe, PP and Win, HH and Delorme, L and Clevenbergh, PA and Babin, FX},
title = {Exploring the psychological impact on children and adolescents during the initial period of the COVID-19 pandemic-a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC psychology},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {842},
pmid = {40722204},
issn = {2050-7283},
}

@article {pmid40721817,
year = {2025},
author = {Yogendra, R and Perlowski, A and Johng, B and Dahshan, H and Orr, C and Jeffers, D and Husain, K and Patterson, BK},
title = {Perioperative and anesthetic considerations for post-acute sequelae of COVID (PASC)/long COVID.},
journal = {Perioperative medicine (London, England)},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {80},
pmid = {40721817},
issn = {2047-0525},
abstract = {Post-acute sequelae of COVID (PASC), commonly known as long COVID, presents with a broad spectrum of medical conditions and symptoms persisting beyond 3 months post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, affecting over 18 million Americans and 65 million people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, to date, there are no specific clinical guidelines for the perioperative management of PASC patients. PASC is a complex, multisystemic condition leading to neurological, respiratory, and endocrine sequelae, potentially resulting from persistent viral presence, immune dysregulation, and/or end-organ damage. This manuscript discusses the implications of these sequelae on anesthesia practice, emphasizing the need for vigilance in pre-operative assessments to identify PASC and associated conditions through detailed patient history, understanding of off-label medication use, and familiarity with medical terminologies like POTS, MCAS, and brain fog. Key perioperative considerations include cautious use of anesthetics, especially in patients with neurological and cardiovascular complications. Pulmonary management strategies for PASC patients, such as lung-protective ventilation and non-invasive post-operative support, could mitigate any perioperative respiratory complications. Finally, we underscore the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to manage PASC patients effectively during surgery, advocating for personalized anesthetic plans and calling for more evidence-driven guidelines for this emerging patient group as research progresses.},
}

@article {pmid40721512,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiang, C and Park, AY and Weber, SE and Lenardo, MJ and Ozen, A and Cui, J},
title = {The impact of genetic immune disorders on infections including COVID-19, inflammatory bowel disease and cancer.},
journal = {Nature immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40721512},
issn = {1529-2916},
abstract = {Inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) are rare genetic anomalies that cause defective immune function. Over 500 IEIs have been identified to date, affecting millions of patients globally. These IEIs reveal the complex interplay between genetics, the environment and microorganisms that determine immune disease phenotypes. Progress in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of IEIs provides a genetic framework for a functional understanding of the human immune system, disease pathogenesis and successful therapeutic interventions. This Review describes how IEIs impact infectious diseases, particularly coronavirus disease 2019, inflammatory bowel disease and cancer.},
}

@article {pmid40721118,
year = {2025},
author = {Cao, YF and Zhong, H and Liu, ZP and Guo, Q and Zeng, KW},
title = {Lonicera japonica Thunb. in acute lung injury: A systematic review of bioactive components and multi-target mechanisms.},
journal = {Fitoterapia},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {106764},
doi = {10.1016/j.fitote.2025.106764},
pmid = {40721118},
issn = {1873-6971},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute lung injury (ALI), characterized by dysregulated host-pathogen interactions and hyperinflammatory responses, poses a critical clinical burden in viral infections such as influenza and COVID-19. Lonicera japonica Thunb. (LJT), a cornerstone herb in traditional medicine for respiratory ailments exhibits multi-component synergy with documented anti-ALI properties. However, its phytochemical determinants and polypharmacological mechanisms remain underexplored.

PURPOSE: This review aims to systematically decode the bioactive phytoconstituents of LJT driving ALI protection and establish their multi-target mechanisms through integrative pharmacology.

METHODS: The information was compiled from major scientific databases such as the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Elsevier, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Web of Science. Relevant literature was extracted from the above databases using the keywords "acute lung injury," "Lonicera japonica," "anti-inflammatory," "chlorogenic acid."

RESULTS: LJT's bioactive matrix orchestrates ALI mitigation via: 1) TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB axis suppression, reducing TNF-α, IL-6, and NLRP3 inflammasome activation; 2) Nrf2/HO-1-mediated oxidative stress resolution; 3) direct antiviral effects against influenza. terpenoids enhances bioavailability and target engagement.

CONCLUSION: This mechanistic elucidation positions LJT as a promising multi-target phytotherapeutic against the cytokine storm phase of ALI.},
}

@article {pmid40720942,
year = {2025},
author = {Ulsamer, A and Pomare Montin, D and Bocciero, V and Parra Morales, TJ and Tofani, L and Di Girolamo, L and Romagnoli, S and Villa, G and Cecchi, M},
title = {Interleukin-6 removal and clinical effects of Oxiris: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Blood purification},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1159/000547587},
pmid = {40720942},
issn = {1421-9735},
abstract = {Introduction Sepsis is a life-threatening condition associated with high mortality due to an unregulated host immune response. Extracorporeal blood purification (EBP) therapies have been proposed as adjunctive treatments to immunomodulate patients; however, none have been consistently shown to be effective in reducing mortality. In several observational studies, Oxiris has been associated with cytokine reduction and a potential benefit in influencing inflammatory diseases. This meta-analysis explores the association between cytokine removal and clinical efficacy of the Oxiris membrane using interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a biomarker. Methods This review includes articles on EBP with Oxiris membranes in adult patients with sepsis/septic shock or COVID-19. No time or language restrictions were applied to the systematic literature search. Data extraction and statistical analysis were limited to the cytokines and clinical data reported in the included articles. The most representative cytokine was IL-6 and the selected outcomes included VIS (Vasoactive-Inotropic Score), SOFA score, procalcitonin (PCT) and c-reactive protein (CRP). The review used meta-analysis and unpaired t-test to estimate differences between groups of patients treated with or without Oxiris. Results The study found no significant differences in demographics between the intervention and control groups at baseline. Intervention group showed a significant reduction in vasoactive inotropic score, norepinephrine dose, SOFA score, procalcitonin and C-reactive protein. Conclusion We reviewed 8 studies in which IL-6 was significantly reduced in the Oxiris group compared to the control. This meta-analysis found that the use of the Oxiris membrane resulted in significant clinical improvement during treatment.},
}

@article {pmid40716716,
year = {2025},
author = {Inguva, PK and Mukherjee, S and Walker, PJ and Tenberg, V and Devos, C and Shin, S and Wu, Y and Santra, S and Wang, J and Singh, S and Kanso, MA and Kim, SH and Trout, BL and Bazant, MZ and Myerson, AS and Braatz, RD},
title = {Mechanistic modeling of lipid nanoparticle formation for the delivery of nucleic acid therapeutics.},
journal = {Biotechnology advances},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {108643},
doi = {10.1016/j.biotechadv.2025.108643},
pmid = {40716716},
issn = {1873-1899},
abstract = {Nucleic acids such as mRNA have emerged as a promising therapeutic modality with the capability of addressing a wide range of diseases. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as a delivery platform for nucleic acids were used in the COVID-19 vaccines and have received much attention. While modern manufacturing processes which involve rapidly mixing an organic stream containing the lipids with an aqueous stream containing the nucleic acids are conceptually straightforward, detailed understanding of LNP formation and structure is still limited and scale-up can be challenging. Mathematical and computational methods are a promising avenue for deepening scientific understanding of the LNP formation process and facilitating improved process development and control. This article describes strategies for the mechanistic modeling of LNP formation, starting with strategies to estimate and predict important physicochemical properties of the various species such as diffusivities and solubilities. Subsequently, a framework is outlined for constructing mechanistic models of reactor- and particle-scale processes. Insights gained from the various models are mapped back to product quality attributes and process insights. Lastly, the use of the models to guide development of advanced process control and optimization strategies is discussed.},
}

@article {pmid40716141,
year = {2025},
author = {Cuevas, FI},
title = {Commentary: Processes of pre-clinical and clinical vaccine development public data sharing within the NIAID collaborative influenza vaccine innovation centers (CIVICs).},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {62},
number = {},
pages = {127547},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2025.127547},
pmid = {40716141},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic increased efforts for rapid data sharing and dissemination among researchers as well as to data repositories. Researchers and studies prioritized data sharing, which increased understanding of SARS-CoV-2's pathology. Eventually, this effort to maximize collaboration and data dissemination, led to the development of mRNA vaccines. This successful effort has highlighted the importance of data sharing and the implementation of data management policies, including the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) Data Sharing Policy of 2023. Moreover, programs such as the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) funded Collaborative Influenza Vaccine Innovation Centers (CIVICs), have beta-tested this policy, with the help of the Statistical, Data Management and Coordination Center (SDMCC) and its data standards, and deemed it useful. However, the process has also initiated pertinent discussion on potential improvements and optimizations for the future of data sharing. Here, I use the CIVICs data sharing reporting standards and process as a data sharing example, and suggest logistical improvements to propose a better-equipped model for the vaccinology community.},
}

@article {pmid40716013,
year = {2025},
author = {Martino, EA and Vigna, E and Bruzzese, A and Amodio, N and Lucia, E and Olivito, V and Labanca, C and Caserta, S and Mendicino, F and Morabito, F and Gentile, M},
title = {Vaccination in Multiple Myeloma: Challenges and Strategies.},
journal = {European journal of haematology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/ejh.70013},
pmid = {40716013},
issn = {1600-0609},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy characterized by profound immunosuppression resulting from both disease-related mechanisms and treatment-induced immune dysfunction. This compromised immune status markedly increases susceptibility to infections, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in MM patients. While vaccination represents a cornerstone of infection prevention, standard immunization strategies often yield suboptimal responses in this population.

OBJECTIVES: This review synthesizes current evidence on the immunological barriers and clinical effectiveness of vaccination in MM. We evaluate vaccines targeting influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae, SARS-CoV-2, and other relevant pathogens, and explore determinants influencing vaccine efficacy, including optimal timing, formulation, and patient-specific immune parameters.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, encompassing clinical trials, retrospective cohort studies, expert consensus guidelines, and population-based data. Extracted outcomes included serological responses, infection-related events, and vaccine safety in MM patients.

RESULTS: Patients with MM exhibit impaired vaccine responses due to hypogammaglobulinemia, T- and B-cell dysfunction, and therapy-induced lymphodepletion. Despite modest immunogenicity, influenza and pneumococcal vaccines reduce respiratory infections and hospitalizations. Sequential administration of PCV13 followed by PPSV23, as well as post-autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) three-dose regimens, is associated with reduced pneumonia incidence. COVID-19 vaccines elicit variable responses, particularly in patients on anti-CD38 or BCMA-targeted therapies, highlighting the need for booster doses and, in selected cases, prophylactic monoclonal antibodies. Vaccines against herpes zoster, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type B are also recommended, particularly around ASCT. Immunophenotypic markers such as CD19+ B-cell and CD4+ T-cell counts are predictive of vaccine responsiveness, supporting immune profiling as a tool for individualized vaccination planning.

CONCLUSIONS: Vaccination remains a critical component of infection prevention in MM. Although immunogenicity may be attenuated, clinical benefits-namely, reduced infection burden and healthcare utilization-support broad vaccine implementation. A personalized approach, considering the treatment phase, disease control, and immune status, is essential to optimize vaccine effectiveness. Ongoing research into high-dose, adjuvanted, and next-generation vaccines is critical to enhance protection in this vulnerable population.},
}

@article {pmid40720171,
year = {2025},
author = {Banerjee, B and Halder, S and Kumar, S and Chaddha, M and Ali, R and Mohite, R and Bano, M and Pandey, R},
title = {Genomic insights into bacteriophages: a new frontier in AMR detection and phage therapy.},
journal = {Briefings in functional genomics},
volume = {24},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40720171},
issn = {2041-2657},
support = {INV-033578/GATES/Gates Foundation/United States ; 2021 HTH 018//Rockefeller Foundation/ ; GAP0276//AIDS Healthcare Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Bacteriophages/genetics ; *Phage Therapy/methods ; Humans ; *Genomics/methods ; *Genome, Viral ; Bacteria/virology/genetics/drug effects ; Bacterial Infections/therapy/microbiology ; },
abstract = {The misuse and overprescription of antibiotics have accelerated the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), rendering many antibiotics ineffective and leading to significant clinical challenges. The conventional treatment methods have become progressively challenging, posing a threat of evolving into an impending silent pandemic. The long track record of bacteriophages combating bacterial infections has renewed hope into the potential therapeutic benefits of bacteriophages. Bacteriophage therapy offers a promising alternative to antibiotics, particularly against multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. This article explores the promise of phages as a potential means to combat superbugs from the perspective of the genomic and transcriptomic landscape of the phages and their bacterial host. Advances in bacteriophage genomics have expedited the detection of new phages and AMR genes, enhancing our understanding of phage-host interactions and enabling the identification of potential treatments for antibiotic-resistant bacteria. At the same time, holo-transcriptomic studies hold potential for discovering disease and context-specific transcriptionally active phages vis-à-vis disease severity. Holo-transcriptomic profiling can be applied to investigate the presence of AMR-bacteria, highlighting COVID-19 and Dengue diseases, in addition to the globally recognized ESKAPE pathogens. By simultaneously capturing phage, bacterial and host transcripts, this approach enables a better comprehension of the bacteriophage dynamics. Moreover, insight into these defence and counter-defence interactions is essential for augmenting the adoption of phage therapy at scale and advancing bacterial control in clinical settings.},
}

*Bacteriophages/genetics
*Phage Therapy/methods
Humans
*Genomics/methods
*Genome, Viral
Bacteria/virology/genetics/drug effects
Bacterial Infections/therapy/microbiology

@article {pmid40720045,
year = {2025},
author = {Balakrishnan, R and Subbarayan, R and Shrestha, R and Chauhan, A},
title = {Intersection of COVID-19 and Alzheimer's Disease: Genetic Insights and Neuropathological Consequences.},
journal = {Biochemical genetics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40720045},
issn = {1573-4927},
abstract = {The potential link between viral infections and the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been debated for several years. The emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has raised concerns regarding its potential role in predisposing individuals to AD or aggravating its progression. The widespread transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has introduced novel aspects to AD research, driving comprehensive investigations into the possible correlation between COVID-19 and neuropathological manifestations observed in patients with AD. This review explores the complex connection between COVID-19 and Alzheimer's disease by examining both the direct effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the brain and the indirect impacts of the infection on the overall health of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. An overview of COVID-19 is provided, followed by a detailed discussion of Alzheimer's disease, including its clinical presentation and neuropathological consequences. Moreover, our review aimed to identify key candidate genes, such as ACE2, TMPRSS2, OAS1, and APOE4, which have been implicated in COVID-19 and AD. We analyzed data from multiple genomic and transcriptomic databases to elucidate the genetic factors underlying the association between these two conditions. Furthermore, with advancements in contemporary genomic technologies, this review highlights potential genetic mutations and variations that may serve as crucial biomarkers, risk predictors, and therapeutic targets. Elucidating these molecular interactions could offer critical insights for advancing future research and formulating innovative therapeutic interventions for Alzheimer's disease within the framework of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

@article {pmid40718973,
year = {2025},
author = {Manes, MT and Giubilato, S and Francese, M and Mannarini, A and Ciliberti, G and Pavan, D and Di Fusco, SA and Rossini, R and Khoury, G and Aschieri, D and Scardovi, B and Bruno, N and Cocozza, S and Gulizia, MM and Geraci, G and Gabrielli, D and Colivicchi, F and Grimaldi, M and Oliva, F},
title = {[Individual's eHealth literacy: an update].},
journal = {Giornale italiano di cardiologia (2006)},
volume = {26},
number = {8},
pages = {604-610},
doi = {10.1714/4531.45336},
pmid = {40718973},
issn = {1972-6481},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine ; *Health Literacy ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Age Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Sex Factors ; },
abstract = {The escalation in demand for digital health services, particularly highlighted by recent global health crises, has emphasized the significance of eHealth literacy (eHL). This concept encompasses the skills necessary to effectively search for, comprehend, evaluate, and apply online health information to solve health-related issues. eHL not only facilitates navigation through the digital health landscape but also broadens the understanding of the digital divide within the context of health information accessibility. In this review, we encompassed individual eHL definitions and tools, focusing on the role of eHL during the COVID-10 outbreak, and with regard to gender, age and social inequalities.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine
*Health Literacy
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Age Factors
Socioeconomic Factors
Sex Factors

@article {pmid40718283,
year = {2025},
author = {Mathew, A and Dongre, R and Kim, SH and Turner, J and Mathew, A and Cherryholmes, E and Mehrinfar, M and Kamprath, S},
title = {The Clinical Applications of Psilocybin Therapies and Post-COVID Syndrome: A Comprehensive Narrative Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {6},
pages = {e86659},
pmid = {40718283},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The coronavirus variant (causing the COVID-19 disease) that led to a pandemic sent global shockwaves, resulting in long-term effects on physical, mental, and social well-being and impacting both individuals and communities. With the pandemic's notable impact on mental health, one such potential treatment discussed in recent literature is psilocybin. Psilocybin is a naturally occurring prodrug compound found in select mushrooms shown to reduce clinical symptoms of certain mental health disorders. In this study, we review the status and usage of psilocybin in clinical practice preceding and following the COVID-19 pandemic. The search criteria for the study included psilocybin or psychedelics or psychedelic-therapy psychiatry and long-haul COVID. The search spanned English articles from January 2020 to April 2024, utilizing the PsychInfo, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus, and PubMed databases. Two reviewers independently screened each record to decide if a study met the inclusion criteria and to account for bias. Each article researched different pathologies, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and COVID-19. The manuscripts collectively emphasize that there is evidence that psilocybin has a role in the treatment of said pathologies, with relatively safe outcomes if administered under proper medical supervision. Psilocybin use was followed up for a relatively long period after some trials, but further research is warranted to draw a more definitive conclusion regarding the therapeutic uses of psilocybin. Our review reflects that barriers to using psilocybin therapeutically for long-haul COVID-19 exist, which significantly impacts the scope of our research. While evidence suggests its efficacy in mental health conditions such as depression and mood disorders, more robust clinical trials are needed. Current literature supports the pharmacological basis that psilocybin may be effective in treating COVID-19 sequelae. Psilocybin's role in inhibiting SARS-Cov-2 protease shows promise, but ultimately, in vitro validation will be necessary before wider approval of the drug. Lastly, large clinical trials comparing psilocybin to standard care and assessing symptom relief in long-term COVID patients may help validate the findings seen in much of the current literature.},
}

@article {pmid40639793,
year = {2025},
author = {Siefken, K and Pratt, M and Mejía-Grueso, J and Bauman, A and Salvo, D and Woods, CB and Wendel-Vos, W and Richards, J and Miranda, JJ and Hallal, PC and Ramírez Varela, A},
title = {Chance or Strategy? Assessing the Unanticipated Policy Window for Active Transportation During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of physical activity & health},
volume = {22},
number = {8},
pages = {989-999},
doi = {10.1123/jpah.2024-0489},
pmid = {40639793},
issn = {1543-5474},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Transportation/methods ; *Exercise ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Health Policy ; Pandemics ; Bicycling ; Built Environment ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Physical activity (PA) policy is essential for promoting population-level PA by coordinating efforts across various sectors. Global crises like the COVID-19 pandemic can open policy windows, enabling rapid implementation of innovative policies. This study examined how policy windows shaped active transportation (AT) policies during the pandemic, resulting in infrastructural changes.

METHODS: A systematic review using PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest-Coronavirus Research Database, Web of Science, WHO COVID-19 Research Database, PsycInfo, and SPORTDiscus conducted to characterize AT policy during the pandemic (2020-2023). Descriptive analyses were conducted in Stata. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42025644930.

RESULTS: The search retrieved 3879 articles; 1162 were duplicates, leaving 2716 eligible. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 14 were selected for data extraction. Findings demonstrate the pandemic's influence on AT policy implementation and its impact on the built environment, such as the creation of bicycle lanes and pedestrian-friendly spaces. While these policies indirectly impacted PA, many were transient and unintended. Regional disparities in case-study cities highlighted mobility alternatives to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Enablers and challenges for effective policy implementation were identified.

CONCLUSION: The pandemic catalyzed global AT policies, demonstrating that urgency and political willpower can expedite policy enactment. Rapid urban infrastructure changes highlighted the potential for swift policy implementation during health emergencies, facilitating utilitarian PA. AT emerged as a practical solution, allowing essential movement. Addressing the immediate crisis proved more effective in implementing AT policies than prepandemic efforts focused on the physical inactivity's health burden. Understanding local sustainability determinants can inform future urban planning for integrating AT initiatives sustainably.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Transportation/methods
*Exercise
SARS-CoV-2
*Health Policy
Pandemics
Bicycling
Built Environment

@article {pmid40717731,
year = {2025},
author = {Joodaki, M and Seif, F and Afzalnia, A and Emtiazi, N and Shirazi, MM and Ashtari, B and Hosseinian, SM and Hosseini, N},
title = {COVID-19 vaccines and neurological disorders: A narrative review of immune responses and adverse reactions.},
journal = {AIMS neuroscience},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {222-249},
doi = {10.3934/Neuroscience.2025013},
pmid = {40717731},
issn = {2373-7972},
abstract = {COVID-19 vaccines have been effective in providing strong immunity within a relatively short time frame, significantly reducing both the severity of the disease and associated mortality. However, post-vaccination complications, particularly neurological disorders, have been reported. Among the more frequently documented neurological complications are acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), multiple sclerosis (MS), transverse myelitis (TM), optic neuritis (ON), Bell's palsy (BP), and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). The precise role of COVID-19 vaccines in triggering the onset or relapse of these conditions remains uncertain. Immunological processes involving cytokines, chemokines, antibodies, and immune cells are believed to contribute to the pathogenesis of these neurological side effects. This review examines the immune responses triggered by COVID-19 vaccines and their potential role in the development of such complications. Despite reports of neurological side effects, these cases remain rare, and the overall benefits of vaccination in curbing the pandemic and preventing severe illness far exceed the risks. It is vital to sustain the progress of global vaccination efforts while continuously evaluating the risk-benefit ratio, particularly for individuals with underlying conditions. Ongoing research and surveillance are crucial for creating safer vaccines and identifying individuals who may be more susceptible to adverse reactions, ensuring broader protection against COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid40717478,
year = {2025},
author = {Bajić, D and Todorović, N and Popović, ML and Plazačić, M and Mihajlović, A},
title = {Immunity's core reset: Synbiotics and gut microbiota in the COVID-19 era.},
journal = {Innate immunity},
volume = {31},
number = {},
pages = {17534259251362023},
doi = {10.1177/17534259251362023},
pmid = {40717478},
issn = {1753-4267},
abstract = {The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in shaping immune responses, and its connection to immunity has never been more relevant than in the COVID-19 era. The interaction between gut microbes and the immune system, known as microbiome-immunity crosstalk, influences both how the body responds to infections and how well it recovers. COVID-19, whether in its acute phase or lingering as long COVID, has been linked to disturbances in the gut microbiome. During infection, many patients experience dysbiosis-an imbalance in gut bacteria-that can contribute to immune dysfunction and excessive inflammation. This imbalance may not only worsen the severity of the disease but also prolong recovery, leading to persistent symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and digestive issues. Long COVID, in particular, has been associated with ongoing immune dysregulation, where the body's defense system remains in a state of heightened activation, causing chronic inflammation. Given the strong link between gut health and immunity, there is growing interest in strategies to restore microbial balance. Synbiotics-combinations of probiotics (beneficial bacteria) and prebiotics (nutrients that support them)-are being explored as a potential therapeutic approach. By replenishing beneficial gut microbes, synbiotics may help regulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and support overall recovery from COVID-19. Emerging research suggests that improving gut health could enhance the body's ability to fight infections and recover more efficiently. As we continue to understand the long-term impact of COVID-19, focusing on the gut microbiome offers a promising path forward. Supporting a balanced and diverse microbiome through diet, lifestyle, and targeted interventions like synbiotics may provide a natural way to strengthen immunity and improve health outcomes in both acute and long COVID cases.},
}

@article {pmid40714940,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, J and Guo, J and Li, J and Gao, J and Liu, J and Shen, S and Zhu, J},
title = {The Role of Emerging/Re-Emerging RNA Viruses in Bone-Related Diseases With a Focus on DENV, CHIKV, and SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {35},
number = {4},
pages = {e70053},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70053},
pmid = {40714940},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {20222A146//Zhejiang Traditional Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Project/ ; LGF22H060032//Zhejiang Provincial Basic Public Welfare Research Program/ ; A20210086//Hangzhou Health and Family Planning Science and Technology Program/ ; },
abstract = {Emerging and re-emerging RNA viruses represent a persistent and evolving global health threat. While primarily recognized for their acute systemic or respiratory illnesses, a growing body of evidence implicates several of these pathogens in the development or exacerbation of bone-related diseases. This review critically describes the multifaceted roles of selected major RNA viruses-Dengue Virus (DENV), Chikungunya Virus (CHIKV), and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)- in bone-related diseases. It discusses the current understanding of the clinical manifestations, ranging from arthralgia and arthritis to more severe outcomes such as osteopenia, osteoporosis, and bone erosions. The review describes the potential pathogenic mechanisms, including direct viral infection of bone cells (osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and osteocytes), as well as virus-induced dysregulation of host immune responses that lead to pro-inflammatory cytokine storms and altered signalling pathways, collectively driving aberrant bone remodelling. By discussing current knowledge, this review aims to highlight the significant, yet often underappreciated, impact of these RNA viruses on bone health, identify existing knowledge gaps, and underscore the need for further mechanistic research to inform targeted therapeutic and preventive strategies that reduce bone morbidity in affected populations.},
}

@article {pmid40714772,
year = {2025},
author = {Amlaev, KR and Abdullah, A},
title = {[THE RISK AND PROTECTIVE FACTORS FOR NONCOMMUNICABLE DISEASES].},
journal = {Problemy sotsial'noi gigieny, zdravookhraneniia i istorii meditsiny},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {445-447},
doi = {10.32687/0869-866X-2025-33-3-445-447},
pmid = {40714772},
issn = {0869-866X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Risk Factors ; Protective Factors ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Air Pollution/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {The article presents modern data on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their risk factors. The tendency of increasing mortality from NCDs due to increase in the number and aging of the population is noted. The data is presented testifying that, in addition to biological risk factors, influence of environmental factors is increasing, including atmospheric and household air pollution, the levels of which are high in a significant number of countries. It is emphasized that green spaces (e.g., trees, grass, forests and parks) and blue spaces (e.g., lakes, rivers, ponds, etc.) provide beneficial effect on human health, being in fact protective factors for NCDs. The NCD risk factors are found to interact closely with each other: air pollution, depression, tobacco smoking, high blood pressure and obesity have been linked to all NCDs. The evidence is provided that presence of behavioral risk factors for NCDs exacerbates severity of infectious pathology, particularly COVID-19 and other infectious diseases (influenza, HIV, tuberculosis, hepatitis, etc.). Given that NCD risk factors can occur in early childhood, promoting healthy lifestyles among expectant mothers and adolescents should be a priority to reduce NCD risks, especially in low- and middle-income countries.},
}

Humans
*Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control
Risk Factors
Protective Factors
COVID-19/epidemiology
Air Pollution/adverse effects

@article {pmid40713974,
year = {2025},
author = {Morgenstern, C and Rawson, T and Routledge, I and Kont, M and Imai-Eaton, N and Skarp, J and Doohan, P and McCain, K and Johnson, R and Unwin, HJT and Naidoo, T and Dee, DP and Parchani, K and Cracknell Daniels, BN and Vicco, A and Drake, KO and Christen, P and Sheppard, RJ and Leuba, SI and Hicks, JT and McCabe, R and Nash, RK and Santoni, CN and Cuomo-Dannenburg, G and van Elsland, S and Bhatia, S and Cori, A and , },
title = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) mathematical models and disease parameters: a systematic review.},
journal = {The Lancet. Microbe},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101144},
doi = {10.1016/j.lanmic.2025.101144},
pmid = {40713974},
issn = {2666-5247},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-1 was the first documented coronavirus to cause an acute epidemic in humans and remains a priority pathogen owing to the risk of re-emergence. Robust estimates of key epidemiological parameters are essential to guide outbreak responses and inform mathematical models. Existing systematic reviews have been limited in scope, warranting a comprehensive and up-to-date review. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42023393345) of studies of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) transmission models and parameters characterising the transmission, evolution, natural history, severity, risk factors, and seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-1. Information was extracted using a custom database and quality assessment tool. We extracted data on 519 parameters, 243 risk factors, and 112 models from 289 papers. We found that SARS is characterised by high lethality (case-fatality ratio, 10·9%), transmissibility (R0 range, 1·1-4·59), and superspreading events (approximately 91% of SARS-CoV-1 infections can be attributed to 20% of individuals who were most infectious). Infection risk was the highest among health-care workers and close contacts of infected individuals. Severe disease and death were associated with age and existing comorbidities. The natural history of SARS was poorly characterised, except for the incubation and mean onset-to-hospitalisation delays. The extracted data were compiled into our associated R package, epireview, which can be updated to incorporate novel findings, thus providing a key resource for informing response to future coronavirus outbreaks. By making data accessible through an updatable database, we support rapid, evidence-informed responses to potential re-emergence of SARS-CoV-1 or related coronaviruses.},
}

@article {pmid40712614,
year = {2025},
author = {Chen, J and Deng, S and Xu, X and Chen, S and Abo, YN and Bassat, Q and Deng, J and Komissarov, AB and Liu, E and Muñoz-Almagro, C and Ren, L and Stolyarov, K and Tomlinson, J and Cai, Z and Qiao, M and Li, Y and Wang, X and , },
title = {Regional and type-specific variations in the global seasonality of human parainfluenza viruses and the influence of climatic factors: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {The Lancet. Global health},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {e1425-e1435},
doi = {10.1016/S2214-109X(25)00188-3},
pmid = {40712614},
issn = {2214-109X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Seasons ; *Climate ; *Global Health ; *Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Human parainfluenza viruses (hPIVs) are common viral causes of acute respiratory infections, resulting in substantial global disease burden. Seasonal patterns of hPIV epidemics can vary by geographical region and viral type, although these patterns are not well understood at a global level. We aimed to characterise regional and type-specific variations in hPIV seasonality and assess the potential role of climatic factors in explaining these variations.

METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we collected monthly aggregated seasonal activity data for hPIV and its four types (hPIV-1, hPIV-2, hPIV-3, and hPIV-4) from various sources, including a systematic search of Embase, MEDLINE, and Ovid Global Health, for literature published between Jan 1, 2000, and Dec 31, 2024; unpublished data contributed by an established collaborative network; and public viral surveillance datasets from online platforms. We included studies that continuously tested hPIVs throughout their study period and reported seasonal activity in defined geographical locations on a monthly basis (or if monthly data could be derived from reports). We excluded published studies if they had fewer than 20 cases, focused on specific medical conditions, or contained duplicate data from published literature or publicly available datasets. A prespecified collection template was used to collect data from members in the collaborative network. We extracted site-specific monthly case counts of combined hPIVs and each viral type and used the annual average percentage approach to assess relative circulating strength, epidemic onset and peak month, and epidemic duration by virus type and latitude. We identified type-specific transmission zones of countries with similar circulating patterns with the k-means method. A local regression model (selected by leave-one-out cross-validation) was used to explore climatic factors associated with variations in hPIV monthly circulating activity. The study was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023370261.

FINDINGS: We included 115 records in total: 103 studies identified from the published literature, five studies contributed by collaborators, and data from seven public surveillance datasets. We included 306 719 cases from 141 sites in 64 countries. We found that hPIV-3 exhibited distinctive seasonal patterns compared with the other three hPIV types. In temperate regions, hPIV-3 seasons typically occurred in spring, summer, and winter, with a median onset in April (IQR April-May) in the northern temperate region and July (July-July) in the southern temperate region. hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 seasons typically occurred in autumn, winter, and summer, with median onsets between August and October in the northern temperate region and between April and May in the southern temperate region. Both epidemic onset and peak timing for hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 were less consistent in tropical and subtropical regions than in temperate regions, whereas the seasonality of hPIV-3 remained generally consistent across regions. Northern temperate and subtropical countries typically clustered in shared transmission zones for hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-3 with a few exceptions, as did countries in the southern hemisphere. Nevertheless, hPIV-1 and hPIV-4 peak timings were delayed as latitude increased in the northern hemisphere (Pearson's r=0·62 [p=0·0012] for hPIV-1 and r=0·53 [p=0·049] for hPIV-4). Type-specific climate models yielded better fits (with greater area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values) than models for combined hPIVs. In temperate regions, higher hPIV-1, hPIV-2, and hPIV-4 activity correlated with declining temperature and increasing relative humidity (all p values <0·0001), whereas higher hPIV-3 activity was correlated with rising temperature (rs=0·61; p<0·0001). In subtropical and tropical regions, the climate models showed suboptimal performance. Exploratory analyses showed differential timing shifts in hPIV epidemics across six included countries following the lifting of COVID-19 non-pharmacological interventions.

INTERPRETATION: Our results characterise both between-type and regional variations in hPIV seasonality and the differential effects of monthly temperature variability and relative humidity on the global seasonality of different hPIV types. These findings have important implications for development of global hPIV surveillance and epidemic prediction in diverse locations. Substantial gaps in hPIV type-specific seasonality data remain in many countries, highlighting the need to expand surveillance to improve characterisation and prediction of hPIV epidemics.

FUNDING: National Natural Science Foundation of China.},
}

Humans
*Seasons
*Climate
*Global Health
*Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology

@article {pmid40711525,
year = {2025},
author = {Buchrits, S and Trieman, G and Giladi, O and Hofstetter, L and Gurion, R and Granot, G and Shacham-Abulafia, A and Raanani, P and Gafter-Gvili, A},
title = {Infectious complications in CLL/SLL patients receiving Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors - systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Annals of hematology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40711525},
issn = {1432-0584},
abstract = {The development of Bruton Tyrosine Kinase inhibitors (BTKis) has revolutionized the management of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL). However, increased infection rates have been reported in patients receiving BTKis in multiple clinical trials. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of infections associated with BTKis compared to other therapeutic regimens in CLL/SLL patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted. We included trials comparing BTKi-containing regimens (e.g., BTKi alone or combined with anti-CD20 or venetoclax) to other therapeutic regimens, as well as studies comparing different BTKis or BTKi combinations. Primary outcomes were the risk of any infection and grade 3-4 infections. Secondary outcomes included pneumonia, sepsis, septic shock, COVID-19, fungal infections, fatal infections, bacteremia, and febrile neutropenia. Pooled risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using fixed or random effects models based on heterogeneity. Eighteen trials encompassing 8,324 patients were included. BTKi-containing regimens, either as monotherapy or combined with anti-CD20 or venetoclax, were not associated with a significantly increased risk of any infection compared to other regimens [BTKi + anti-CD20 or venetoclax: RR 0.93 (95% CI: 0.79-1.09, I[2] = 46%), 3 trials; BTKi monotherapy: RR 1.12 (95% CI: 0.94-1.34, I[2] = 73%), 3 trials]. Similarly, BTKi monotherapy was not associated with an increased risk of grade 3-4 infections [RR 1.05 (95% CI: 0.76-1.44, I[2] = 61%), 5 trials]. The risk of sepsis was not significantly increased with BTKi regimens [BTKi + anti-CD20: RR 0.48 (95% CI: 0.12-1.84, I[2] = 69%), 4 trials; BTKi monotherapy: RR 0.50 (95% CI: 0.25-1.01, I[2] = 0%), 5 trials]. However, pneumonia risk was increased in the BTKi + anti-CD20 vs other regimens, [RR 2.18; 95% CI 1.29-3.70; I[2] = 3%, 4 trials]. The risk of febrile neutropenia was reduced in trials comparing BTKi-containing regimens to other therapies. BTKi-containing regimens were not associated with an increased risk of overall infections or grade 3-4 infections compared to other regimens. However, an elevated risk of pneumonia was observed with BTKi combinations, highlighting the need for careful consideration when selecting treatment regimens for CLL/SLL patients.},
}