@article {pmid40281884,
year = {2025},
author = {Ocagli, H and Brigiari, G and Marcolin, E and Mongillo, M and Tonon, M and Da Re, F and Gentili, D and Michieletto, F and Russo, F and Gregori, D},
title = {Mathematical Contact Tracing Models for the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13080935},
pmid = {40281884},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {The study was conducted under the scope of the CCM (Centre for Diseases Control) 2020 Project "Modelli organizzativi per l'efficientamento delle attività di contact tracing" (Organizational models to improve the efficiency of contact tracing activities)//Italian Ministry of Health./ ; },
abstract = {Background: Contact tracing (CT) is a primary means of controlling infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially in the early months of the pandemic. Objectives: This work is a systematic review of mathematical models used during the COVID-19 pandemic that explicitly parameterise CT as a potential mitigator of the effects of the pandemic. Methods: This review is registered in PROSPERO. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. Two reviewers independently selected the title/abstract, full text, data extraction, and risk of bias. Disagreements were resolved through discussion. The characteristics of the studies and mathematical models were collected from each study. Results: A total of 53 articles out of 2101 were included. The modelling of the COVID-19 pandemic was the main objective of 23 studies, while the remaining articles evaluated the forecast transmission of COVID-19. Most studies used compartmental models to simulate COVID-19 transmission (26, 49.1%), while others used agent-based (16, 34%), branching processes (5, 9.4%), or other mathematical models (6). Most studies applying compartmental models consider CT in a separate compartment. Quarantine and basic reproduction numbers were also considered in the models. The quality assessment scores ranged from 13 to 26 of 28. Conclusions: Despite the significant heterogeneity in the models and the assumptions on the relevant model parameters, this systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the models proposed to evaluate the COVID-19 pandemic, including non-pharmaceutical public health interventions such as CT. Prospero Registration: CRD42022359060.},
}

@article {pmid40281841,
year = {2025},
author = {Dalky, A and Altawalbih, M and Alshanik, F and Khasawneh, RA and Tawalbeh, R and Al-Dekah, AM and Alrawashdeh, A and Quran, TO and ALBashtawy, M},
title = {Global Research Trends, Hotspots, Impacts, and Emergence of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Health and Medicine: A 25-Year Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13080892},
pmid = {40281841},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {20240512//Deanship of Research at Jordan University of Science and Technology/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The increasing application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in health and medicine has attracted a great deal of research interest in recent decades. This study aims to provide a global and historical picture of research concerning AI and ML in health and medicine. Methods: We used the Scopus database for searching and extracted articles published between 2000 and 2024. Then, we generated information about productivity, citations, collaboration, most impactful research topics, emerging research topics, and author keywords using Microsoft Excel 365 and VOSviewer software (version 1.6.20). Results: We retrieved a total of 22,113 research articles, with a notable surge in research activity in recent years. Core journals were Scientific Reports and IEEE Access, and core institutions included Harvard Medical School and the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, while core countries comprised the United States, China, India, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia. Citation trends indicated substantial growth and recognition of AI's and ML impact on health and medicine. Frequent author keywords identified key research hotspots, including specific diseases like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's diseases, COVID-19, and diabetes. The author keyword analysis identified "deep learning", "convolutional neural network", and "classification" as dominant research themes. Conclusions: AI's transformative potential in AI and ML in health and medicine holds promise for improving global health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid40189996,
year = {2025},
author = {Guglielmi, V and Colangeli, L and Parrotta, ME and Ciammariconi, A and Milani, I and D'Adamo, M and Sbraccia, P and Capoccia, D},
title = {Social isolation and loneliness in non-communicable chronic diseases: Impact of COVID-19 pandemic, population aging and technological progress.},
journal = {Nutrition, metabolism, and cardiovascular diseases : NMCD},
volume = {35},
number = {6},
pages = {104015},
doi = {10.1016/j.numecd.2025.104015},
pmid = {40189996},
issn = {1590-3729},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Social Isolation/psychology ; *Loneliness/psychology ; *Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/psychology/therapy ; *Aging/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; Chronic Disease ; Pandemics ; Aged ; },
abstract = {AIMS: Social isolation and loneliness have increasingly emerged as closely linked to onset and progression of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of addressing social isolation in the prevention and management of NCDs such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in order to hinder their development and improve their outcomes.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Social isolation and loneliness affect a significant portion of the older adult population, due to decrease in social interactions, chronic illnesses and sensory impairments. However, many other vulnerable populations may experience social isolation because of psychiatric or disabling health conditions, substances abuse, low socioeconomic status, unemployment and belonging to ethnic or marginalized minorities. The unprecedented COVID-19-related social distancing can be taken as a proof-of-concept of the detrimental role of poor interactions in NCDs prevention and management not only at individual level but also in a public health perspective. Indeed, social isolation has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle choices, disrupted sleep quality, low utilization of healthcare, preventive services and adherence to treatments. Underlying mechanisms like inflammation and stress responses may also play a role in the association between social isolation and worse NCDs outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Social isolation negatively impacts on the development, progression and management of NCDs. Effective interventions for social isolation should address both societal factors and healthcare-related needs. To counteract the detrimental effects of social distancing during COVID-19 pandemic, the use of telemedicine was implemented. However, telemedicine is not always available, and legislative and age-related barriers persist.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Social Isolation/psychology
*Loneliness/psychology
*Noncommunicable Diseases/epidemiology/psychology/therapy
*Aging/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
Chronic Disease
Pandemics
Aged

@article {pmid40188841,
year = {2025},
author = {Yunas, I and Islam, MA and Sindhu, KN and Devall, AJ and Podesek, M and Alam, SS and Kundu, S and Mammoliti, KM and Aswat, A and Price, MJ and Zamora, J and Oladapo, OT and Gallos, I and Coomarasamy, A},
title = {Causes of and risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Lancet (London, England)},
volume = {405},
number = {10488},
pages = {1468-1480},
doi = {10.1016/S0140-6736(25)00448-9},
pmid = {40188841},
issn = {1474-547X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Postpartum Hemorrhage/etiology/epidemiology ; Female ; Risk Factors ; Pregnancy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: An understanding of the causes of postpartum haemorrhage is needed to provide appropriate treatment and services. Knowledge of the risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage can help address modifiable risk factors. We did a systematic review and meta-analysis to identify and quantify the various causes and risk factors for postpartum haemorrhage.

METHODS: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we did a systematic literature search in MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for cohort studies of postpartum haemorrhage from Jan 1, 1960, to Nov 30, 2024 without language restrictions. At least two authors independently undertook study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. Population-based cohort studies available in English were eligible. Rates of postpartum haemorrhage causes as well as crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for risk factors were pooled using a random-effects model. Risk factors were classified as having weak, moderate, or strong association based on the pooled ORs: weak (OR >1 to 1·5), moderate (OR >1·5 to 2), and strong (OR >2). This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42023479686.

FINDINGS: We synthesised data from 327 studies, including 847 413 451 women with no restriction on age, race, or ethnicity. Most studies were of high methodological quality. The pooled rates of the five commonly reported causes of postpartum haemorrhage were uterine atony (70·6% [95% CI 63·9-77·3]; n=834 707 women, 14 studies), genital tract trauma (16·9% [9·3-24·6]; n=18 449 women, six studies), retained placenta (16·4% [12·3-20·5]; n=235 021 women, nine studies), abnormal placentation (3·9% [0·1-7·6]; n=29 638 women, two studies), and coagulopathy (2·7% [0·8-4·5]; n=236 261, nine studies). The pooled rate of women with multiple postpartum haemorrhage causes was 7·8% (95% CI 4·7-10·8; n=666, two studies). Risk factors with a strong association with postpartum haemorrhage included anaemia, previous postpartum haemorrhage, caesarean birth, female genital mutilation, sepsis, no antenatal care, multiple pregnancy, placenta praevia, assisted reproductive technology use, macrosomia with a birthweight of more than 4500 g, and shoulder dystocia. Risk factors with moderate association with postpartum haemorrhage included BMI ≥30 kg/m[2], COVID-19 infection, gestational diabetes, polyhydramnios, pre-eclampsia, and antepartum haemorrhage. Risk factors with weak association with postpartum haemorrhage included Black and Asian ethnicity, BMI 25-29·9 kg/m[2], asthma, thrombocytopenia, uterine fibroids, antidepressant use, induction of labour, instrumental birth, and premature rupture of membranes.

INTERPRETATION: The finding that uterine atony is the commonest cause of postpartum haemorrhage supports the WHO recommendation for all women giving birth to be given prophylactic uterotonics. Knowledge of risk factors with a strong association with postpartum haemorrhage can help to identify women at high risk of postpartum haemorrhage who could benefit from enhanced prophylaxis and treatment. The importance of multiple concurrent causes of postpartum haemorrhage supports the use of treatment bundles.

FUNDING: Gates Foundation.},
}

Humans
*Postpartum Hemorrhage/etiology/epidemiology
Female
Risk Factors
Pregnancy

@article {pmid39662824,
year = {2025},
author = {Górska, A and Canziani, LM and Rinaldi, E and Pana, ZD and Beale, S and Bai, F and Boxma-de Klerk, BM and de Bruijn, S and Donà, D and Ekkelenkamp, MB and Incardona, F and Mallon, P and Marchetti, GC and Puhan, M and Riva, A and Simensen, VC and Vaillant, M and van der Zalm, MM and van Kuijk, SMJ and Wingerden, SV and Judd, A and Tacconelli, E and Peñalvo, JL},
title = {Learning from post-COVID-19 condition for epidemic preparedness: a variable catalogue for future post-acute infection syndromes.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {380-388},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2024.12.001},
pmid = {39662824},
issn = {1469-0691},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Europe/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {SCOPE: The emergence of post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) after SARS-CoV-2 infection underscores the critical need for preparedness in addressing future post-acute infection syndromes (PAIS), particularly those linked to epidemic outbreaks. The lack of standardized clinical and epidemiological data during the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly hindered timely diagnosis and effective treatment of PCC, highlighting the necessity of pre-emptively standardizing data collection in clinical studies to better define and manage future PAIS. In response, the Cohort Coordination Board, a consortium of European-funded COVID-19 research projects, has reviewed data from PCC studies conducted by its members. This paper leverages the Cohort Coordination Board's expertise to propose a standardized catalogue of variables, informed by the lessons learned during the pandemic, intended for immediate use in the design of future observational studies and clinical trials for emerging infections of epidemic potential.

RECOMMENDATIONS: The early implementation of standardized data collection, facilitated by the PAIS data catalogue, is essential for accelerating the identification and management of PAIS in future epidemics. This approach will enable more precise syndrome definitions, expedite diagnostic processes, and optimize treatment strategies, while also supporting long-term follow-up of affected individuals. The availability of harmonized data collection protocols will enhance preparedness across European and international cohort studies, and trials enabling a prompt and coordinated response, as well as more efficient resource allocation, in the event of emerging infections and associated PAIS.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Europe/epidemiology
Pandemics
Pandemic Preparedness

@article {pmid40281838,
year = {2025},
author = {Anastasiadou, O and Tsipouras, M and Mpogiatzidis, P and Angelidis, P},
title = {Digital Healthcare Innovative Services in Times of Crisis: A Literature Review.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare13080889},
pmid = {40281838},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Objectives: The transformation of healthcare systems during crises, particularly demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizes the urgent need for effective research methodologies to evaluate digital healthcare innovations. These methodologies are essential in addressing the rapid shift in healthcare service delivery modalities, responding to unprecedented challenges that have revealed both opportunities and barriers within the digital ecosystem. Methods: For this review, research was carried out on the Medline/PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to locate articles published from 2015 to 2024, using the search terms digital health, digital technologies, management implications, and digital platforms. The inclusion criteria referred to studies that were directly related to the topic, available in the English language, and published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. The exclusion parameters were as follows: (a) articles not relevant to the topic as defined in the purpose of the review, (b) systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and (c) articles published in a language other than English. Results: Key findings indicate that, while digital health technologies have the potential to mitigate healthcare disparities, they often exacerbate existing inequities, especially among vulnerable populations lacking consistent access to technology. Furthermore, the shift towards digital platforms has revealed significant gaps in workforce training and support, which are essential for effective implementation. Conclusions: This review underscores the financial implications, with expenditures rising significantly due to the increased use of digital services, reflecting a broader trend noted in studies of related health conditions. Moreover, discussions on public health governance suggest a critical need for democratic frameworks to support such digital transformations effectively.},
}

@article {pmid40281723,
year = {2025},
author = {Kumar, P and Chaudhary, B and Arya, P and Chauhan, R and Devi, S and Parejiya, PB and Gupta, MM},
title = {Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technologies Transforming Contemporary Pharmaceutical Research.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {12},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering12040363},
pmid = {40281723},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {One area of study within machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) seeks to create computer programs with intelligence that can mimic human focal processes in order to produce results. This technique includes data collection, effective data usage system development, conclusion illustration, and arrangements. Analysis algorithms that are learning to mimic human cognitive activities are the most widespread application of AI. Artificial intelligence (AI) studies have proliferated, and the field is quickly beginning to understand its potential impact on medical services and investigation. This review delves deeper into the pros and cons of AI across the healthcare and pharmaceutical research industries. Research and review articles published throughout the last few years were selected from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct, using search terms like 'artificial intelligence', 'drug discovery', 'pharmacy research', 'clinical trial', etc. This article provides a comprehensive overview of how artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to diagnose diseases, treat patients digitally, find new drugs, and predict when outbreaks or pandemics may occur. In artificial intelligence, neural networks and deep learning are some of the most popular tools; in clinical research, Bayesian non-parametric approaches hold promise for better results, while smartphones and the processing of natural languages are employed in recognizing patients and trial monitoring. Seasonal flu, Ebola, Zika, COVID-19, tuberculosis, and outbreak predictions were made using deep computation and artificial intelligence. The academic world is hopeful that AI development will lead to more efficient and less expensive medical and pharmaceutical investigations and better public services.},
}

@article {pmid40280238,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, CTG and Meng, F},
title = {Unleashing the power of nucleic acid therapeutics through efficient cytosolic delivery.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {113774},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2025.113774},
pmid = {40280238},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {The approval of siRNA-based therapy for liver disease in 2018 and the subsequent success of mRNA-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have inaugurated a new era in nucleic acid-based therapeutics. These breakthroughs underscore the transformative potential of nucleic acid-based therapeutics, which modulate gene function, correct genetic defects, or disrupt pathological molecular processes. Such advances represent a paradigm shift in modern medicine. Despite their immense promise, the clinical realization of nucleic acid-based therapies is fundamentally constrained by endosomal entrapment, a critical barrier that significantly limits therapeutic efficacy. Overcoming this obstacle is imperative to fully unlock the potential of these therapies. Designing effective strategies to facilitate the escape of nucleic acids from endosomes-or bypassing endosomal pathways altogether-remains a central challenge in the field. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of current approaches aimed at enhancing endosomal escape or circumventing endosomal entrapment. By highlighting both the successes and limitations of these strategies, we aim to offer valuable insights to inform the development of more efficient and clinically viable nucleic acid delivery systems, advancing the future of molecular medicine.},
}

@article {pmid40279527,
year = {2025},
author = {Monschein, T and Zrzavy, T and Rommer, PS and Meuth, SG and Chan, A and Berger, T and Hartung, HP},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines and Multiple Sclerosis: An Update.},
journal = {Neurology(R) neuroimmunology & neuroinflammation},
volume = {12},
number = {3},
pages = {e200393},
doi = {10.1212/NXI.0000000000200393},
pmid = {40279527},
issn = {2332-7812},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {The highly contagious zoonosis coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11, 2020, and has led to a global health crisis with nearly 777 million confirmed infections and over 7 million deaths worldwide by November 10, 2024.[1-3] Over time, various variants emerged, with Omicron and its sublines dominating the world over the past 3 years.[4] In addition, there is increasing evidence regarding the immune response of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, especially for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving disease-modifying therapies. Hence, with this review, we aim to provide an updated overview and recommendations for clinical practice regarding MS and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, including efficacy and safety, SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccine hesitancy, and the immune response under treatment with respective disease-modifying therapies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Multiple Sclerosis/drug therapy/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid40278579,
year = {2025},
author = {Lan, L and Wang, Y and Chen, Y and Wang, T and Zhang, J and Tan, B},
title = {A Review on the Prevalence and Treatment of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Hospital Wastewater.},
journal = {Toxics},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278579},
issn = {2305-6304},
abstract = {Antibiotic resistance is a global environmental and health threat. Approximately 4.95 million deaths were associated with antibiotic resistance in 2019, including 1.27 million deaths that were directly attributable to bacterial antimicrobial resistance. Hospital wastewater is one of the key sources for the spread of clinically relevant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) into the environment. Understanding the current situation of ARGs in hospital wastewater is of great significance. Here, we review the prevalence of ARGs and antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) in hospital wastewater and wastewater from other places and the treatment methods used. We further discuss the intersection between ARGs and COVID-19 during the pandemic. This review highlights the issues associated with the dissemination of critical ARGs from hospital wastewater into the environment. It is imperative to implement more effective processes for hospital wastewater treatment to eliminate ARGs, particularly during the current long COVID-19 period.},
}

@article {pmid40278560,
year = {2025},
author = {Everaert, S and Godderis, L and Raquez, JM and Schoeters, G and Spanoghe, P and Moens, J and Hens, L and Michel, O and Adang, D and Fraeyman, N},
title = {Do We Need Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) Nanoparticles in Face Masks?.},
journal = {Toxics},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {40278560},
issn = {2305-6304},
abstract = {The use of face masks has proven to be an effective preventive measure during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, concerns have emerged regarding the safety of metal (nano)particles incorporated into face masks for antimicrobial purposes. Specifically, this review examines the risks associated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs), which are classified as a possible human carcinogen. The inhalation of TiO2 NPs can cause multiple adverse effects, including oxidative stress, pulmonary inflammation, histopathological changes, and (secondary) genotoxicity. Different aspects are discussed, such as the composition and filtration efficiency of face masks, the antimicrobial mode of action and effectiveness of various metals, and the hazards of TiO2 NPs to human health, including exposure limits. A conservative risk assessment was conducted using different worst-case scenarios of potential (sub)chronic TiO2 exposure, derived from published leaching experiments. Most face masks are considered safe, especially for occasional or single use. However, the nanosafety of a minority of face masks on the European market may be inadequate for prolonged and intensive use. Important uncertainties remain, including the risks of combined exposure to TiO2 NPs and silver biocides, and the lack of direct exposure measurements. Considering the potential safety issues and the limited added protective value of TiO2 NPs, it is recommended to ban all applications of TiO2 in face masks based on the precautionary principle.},
}

@article {pmid40275994,
year = {2025},
author = {Leong, TD and Hohlfeld, AS and Bango, F and Mabetha, D and Blose, N and Oliver, J and Engel, ME and Kredo, T},
title = {Assessing the evidence for antibiotic management of laboratory-confirmed Streptococcus A skin infections to prevent acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease: a systematic review.},
journal = {IJID regions},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {100642},
pmid = {40275994},
issn = {2772-7076},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are potential sequelae of untreated group A streptococcal (Strep A) infections. Guidelines focus on treating Strep A pharyngitis but seldom on skin infections. This systematic review explored whether directed antibiotic therapy for superficial Strep A skin infections prevents ARF/RHD.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and clinical trial registries for published and ongoing trials measuring the eradication of Strep A and clinical resolution of polymicrobial infections with antibiotics through December 13, 2024. We calculated risk ratios and absolute risk differences, using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) to assess the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS: No trials were reported on ARF/RHD outcomes. However, we identified 12 trials and pooled data comparing penicillin, cotrimoxazole, macrolides, and cephalosporins. There was probably no difference between interventions for eradicating Strep A (very low certainty evidence). For clinical resolution, cotrimoxazole was comparable to intramuscular benzathine benzylpenicillin and macrolides to penicillin (moderate certainty evidence). First- and second-generation cephalosporins showed no difference (low certainty evidence), whereas third-generation cephalosporins demonstrated improved clinical response (moderate certainty evidence). Benzathine benzylpenicillin-associated injection-site pain and oral antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal disorders were commonly reported.

CONCLUSIONS: The available evidence for directed treatment of Strep A skin infections to prevent ARF/RHD is uncertain, requiring further research, with consideration of antimicrobial resistance and the limited antibiotic pipeline.},
}

@article {pmid40275360,
year = {2025},
author = {Pelizzari, N and Covolo, L and Ceretti, E and Fiammenghi, C and Gelatti, U},
title = {Defining, assessing, and implementing organizational health literacy: barriers, facilitators, and tools - a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {599},
pmid = {40275360},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {*Health Literacy/organization & administration ; Humans ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Organizational health literacy (OHL) is increasingly recognized as a fundamental aspect of high-quality healthcare delivery, focusing on organizations' roles in enabling patients to access, understand, and use health information effectively. This systematic review synthesizes current research on OHL, focusing on its definitions, assessment tools, implemented practices, outcomes, and the factors influencing successful OHL integration within healthcare settings.

METHODS: Guided by PRISMA and following a predefined registered protocol (PROSPERO 2024:CRD42024537425), this systematic review analyzed studies from six key databases, using targeted keywords associated with OHL. Eligibility criteria isolated research on OHL tools, practices, and outcomes in healthcare settings. Independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and bias risk analysis. Systematic quality assessment and data extraction were performed to thoroughly evaluate OHL's impact on healthcare.

RESULTS: This systematic review identified 62 articles, published between 2010 and 2024, from 15 different countries. A notable share (30.6%) aimed to develop, validate, and pilot context-sensitive OHL assessment tools. Other studies included qualitative (24.1%), descriptive (14.6%), case studies (11.29%), cross-sectional (8.06%), mixed methods (8.06%), and quantitative (3.25%) approaches, investigating factors promoting and impeding OHL outcomes. The results highlight a 54.1% increase in studies during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period.

CONCLUSION: OHL is instrumental in advancing healthcare systems towards greater accessibility and patient-centeredness. Nevertheless, overcoming the identified implementation barriers is crucial for realizing OHL's full potential in enhancing healthcare equity and efficiency. Strategic efforts are needed to foster organizational support, adapt structural practices, and allocate necessary resources for OHL initiatives to enhance healthcare.},
}

*Health Literacy/organization & administration
Humans
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid40274383,
year = {2025},
author = {Yao, C and Dong, Y and Zhou, H and Zou, X and Alhaskawi, A and Ezzi, SHA and Wang, Z and Lai, J and Kota, VG and Abdulla, MHAH and Liu, Z and Abdalbary, SA and Alenikova, O and Lu, H},
title = {COVID-19 and acute limb ischemia: latest hypotheses of pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms.},
journal = {Journal of Zhejiang University. Science. B},
volume = {26},
number = {4},
pages = {333-352},
pmid = {40274383},
issn = {1862-1783},
support = {2022RC136//the Zhejiang Provincial Medical Scientific Research Program/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Ischemia/physiopathology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Extremities/blood supply ; Risk Factors ; Interleukin-6/antagonists & inhibitors ; Acute Disease ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a multi-system disease that can lead to various severe complications. Acute limb ischemia (ALI) has been increasingly recognized as a COVID-19-associated complication that often predicts a poor prognosis. However, the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms underlying COVID-19-associated ALI remain poorly understood. Hypercoagulability and thrombosis are considered important mechanisms, but we also emphasize the roles of vasospasm, hypoxia, and acidosis in the pathogenesis of the disease. The angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) pathway, inflammation, and platelet activation may be important molecular mechanisms underlying these pathological changes induced by COVID-19. Furthermore, we discuss the hypotheses of risk factors for COVID-19-associated ALI from genetic, age, and gender perspectives based on our analysis of molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize therapeutic approaches such as use of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) blocker tocilizumab, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, providing insights for the future treatment of coronavirus-associated limb ischemic diseases.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Ischemia/physiopathology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Extremities/blood supply
Risk Factors
Interleukin-6/antagonists & inhibitors
Acute Disease
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2

@article {pmid40273323,
year = {2025},
author = {Li, Y and Liu, Y and Liu, X and Zhang, T and Guo, Z and Lai, L and Zhao, J and Cheng, Y and Ren, Z},
title = {Digital Psychological Interventions for Adults in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Health psychology review},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-17},
doi = {10.1080/17437199.2025.2493903},
pmid = {40273323},
issn = {1743-7202},
abstract = {This study evaluates the effect of digital psychological interventions on anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms in adults affected by the pandemic. A systematic search across five digital databases, from 1 January 2020 to 6 March 2024, identified 36 studies encompassing 8,662 participants. Compared with all control conditions, random-effects meta-analyses indicated that digital psychological interventions significantly reduced anxiety (g = -0.374; 95% CI, -0.529 to -0.218), depression (g = -0.568; 95% CI, -0.776 to -0.360), and stress (g = -0.452; 95% CI, -0.608 to -0.295). Smaller effect sizes were observed when compared with active controls than with inactive controls. Notable heterogeneity across three outcomes was observed. Publication bias was noted in depression symptoms. Several moderators were identified compared with inactive controls, including participant type for anxiety (psubgroup = 0.005), and region for depression symptoms (psubgroup = 0.000). Larger sample sizes (b = 0.0004; p = 0.028) related to stronger effects on depression symptoms. Publication year positively correlated with effects on stress (b = 0.1573; p = 0.032). This study supports the efficacy of digital psychological interventions in alleviating anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms for adults during the pandemic, offering insights for developing targeted mental health strategies in future public health crises.},
}

@article {pmid40273148,
year = {2025},
author = {Dickinson, R and Makowski, D and van Marwijk, H and Ford, E},
title = {Interventions for combating COVID-19 misinformation: A systematic realist review.},
journal = {PloS one},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {e0321818},
pmid = {40273148},
issn = {1932-6203},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Humans ; *Communication ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Pandemics ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {Misinformation is a growing concern worldwide, particularly in public health following the COVID-19 pandemic in which misinformation has been attributed to tens of thousands of unnecessary deaths. Therefore a search for effective interventions against misinformation is underway, with widely varying proposed interventions, measures of efficacy, and groups targeted for intervention. This realist systematic review of proposed interventions against COVID-19 misinformation assesses the studies themselves, the characteristics and effectiveness of the interventions proposed, the durability of effect, and the circumstances and contexts within which these interventions function. We searched several databases for studies testing interventions published from 2020 onwards. The search results were sorted by eligibility, with eligible studies then being coded by themes and assessed for quality. Thirty-five studies were included, representing eight types of intervention. The results are promising to the advantages of game-type interventions, with other types scoring poorly on either scalability or impact. Backfire effects and effects on subgroups were reported on intermittently in the included studies, showing the advantages of certain interventions for subgroups or contexts. No one intervention appears sufficient by itself, therefore this study recommends the creation of packages of interventions by policymakers, who can tailor the package for contexts and targeted groups. There was high heterogeneity in outcome measures and methods, making comparisons between studies difficult; this should be a focus in future studies. Additionally, the theoretical and intervention literatures need connecting for greater understanding of the mechanisms at work in the interventions. Lastly, there is a need for work more explicitly addressing political polarisation and its role in the belief and spread of misinformation. This study contributes toward the expansion of realist review approaches, understandings of COVID-19 misinformation interventions, and broader debates around the nature of politicisation in contemporary misinformation.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Humans
*Communication
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Pandemics
Public Health

@article {pmid40272376,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, THV and Ferron, F and Murakami, K},
title = {Neurotoxic Implications of Human Coronaviruses in Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Perspective from Amyloid Aggregation.},
journal = {ACS chemical biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acschembio.5c00153},
pmid = {40272376},
issn = {1554-8937},
abstract = {Human coronaviruses (HCoVs) include seven species: HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1, and SARS-CoV-2. The last three, classified as Betacoronaviruses, are highly transmissible and have caused severe pandemics. HCoV infections primarily affect the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as dry cough, fever, and breath shortness, which can progress to acute respiratory failure and death. Beyond respiratory effects, increasing evidence links HCoVs to neurological dysfunction. However, distinguishing direct neural complications from preexisting disorders, particularly in the elderly, remains challenging. This study examines the association between HCoVs and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, Lewy body dementia, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. It also presents the long-term neurological effects of HCoV infections and their differential impact across age groups and sexes. A key aspect of this study is the investigation of the sequence and structural similarities between amyloidogenic and HCoV spike proteins, which can provide insights into potential neuropathomechanisms.},
}

@article {pmid40272168,
year = {2025},
author = {Couch, J and Li, C and Thomas, K and Card, T and Humes, D},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on inflammatory bowel disease surgery: a systematic review.},
journal = {Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of England},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1308/rcsann.2025.0016},
pmid = {40272168},
issn = {1478-7083},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant disruption to the delivery of surgical services. Guidance prioritising life-saving and cancer surgery was issued. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) often requires considered, timely surgery, which may have not been feasible under the conditions imposed by the pandemic. This systematic review aims to quantify the impact of COVID-19 on IBD surgery and assess the safety of performing such surgery.

METHODS: A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science was performed. Studies that included a prepandemic and a pandemic cohort for comparison and reported on numbers of IBD surgeries or postoperative outcomes following IBD surgery were included. Heterogeneity of included studies precluded any meta-analyses.

FINDINGS: In total, 1,220 titles were screened and 13 were included in the final review. All were cohort studies other than one case-control study. A total of 1,673,282 and 1,445,971 patients were included in the prepandemic and pandemic cohorts, respectively. Rates of elective surgery during the pandemic varied from a 66% reduction to a 9.66% increase and emergency surgery varied from no difference to an 18% reduction. Urgent surgery in IBD inpatients appears to be unaffected. Postoperative outcomes were not shown to be negatively impacted by resource limitations.

CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic affected IBD surgical services considerably; however, those who did undergo surgery during this period do not appear to have been at an increased risk of adverse outcomes. Further work is required to describe the long-term impacts of these cancellations on IBD services and patient morbidity.},
}

@article {pmid40271530,
year = {2025},
author = {Osunla, A and Oloye, F and Kayode, A and Femi-Oloye, O and Okiti, A and Servos, M and Giesy, J},
title = {The Slow Pandemic: Emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance in the Postadvent of SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic.},
journal = {Global health, epidemiology and genomics},
volume = {2025},
number = {},
pages = {3172234},
pmid = {40271530},
issn = {2054-4200},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quaternary Ammonium Compounds/pharmacology ; Benzalkonium Compounds ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; Disinfectants ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/virology ; Wastewater/microbiology ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {Background: The unprecedented outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has dramatically changed the global approach to public health, emphasizing the importance of measures to control and prevent infections. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, stringent hygiene practices and surface disinfection have become the norm, with an unprecedented surge in the use of disinfectants and antiseptics (DAs). Main Text: While these measures have been crucial in curbing the spread of the virus, an emerging concern has taken center stage: the potential impact of the prolonged and widespread use of antimicrobial compounds in these products on the development of antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has long been recognized as one of the most pressing global health threats. Quaternary ammonium compounds (QAC) such as benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, and cetylpyridinium chloride, which are extensively used in DAs formulations, have gained less attention in the context of AMR. Conclusion: A high abundance of QACs was detected in wastewater, and certain bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Enterococcus species developed resistance to these compounds over time. We analyzed the available evidence from the scientific literature, examining the presence and concentrations of QACs in different water sources, and their resistance mechanisms. This review aimed to shed light on the multifaceted challenges that arise from the dual battle against the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing global fight against AMR.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds/pharmacology
Benzalkonium Compounds
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
Disinfectants
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/virology
Wastewater/microbiology
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid40270160,
year = {2025},
author = {Gavazova, E and Staynova, R and Grekova-Kafalova, D},
title = {Inappropriate polypharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic: impact, challenges, and solutions - a narrative review.},
journal = {Folia medica},
volume = {67},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3897/folmed.67.e144169},
pmid = {40270160},
issn = {1314-2143},
mesh = {Humans ; *Polypharmacy ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Inappropriate Prescribing/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, impacting various aspects of patient care. Polypharmacy, the concurrent use of multiple medications by a single patient, is a significant concern exacerbated by the pandemic. The dual threat of COVID-19 infection and polypharmacy for the same vulnerable group - the elderly and those with pre-existing multimorbidity - is particularly problematic, as polypharmacy has been shown to lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes in many chronic diseases. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted issues surrounding polypharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressing its causes, consequences, and potential solutions.},
}

Humans
*Polypharmacy
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Inappropriate Prescribing/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pandemics

@article {pmid40269971,
year = {2025},
author = {Pohl, R and Wolff, D and Özkan, E and Sprenger, AA and Hasenpusch, C and Wesenberg, J and Düzel, E and Apfelbacher, C},
title = {Prevalence and incidence of cognitive impairment following acute respiratory distress syndrome of any cause: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Critical care (London, England)},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {164},
pmid = {40269971},
issn = {1466-609X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/complications/epidemiology/psychology ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/etiology ; Prevalence ; Incidence ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to synthesize and appraise the evidence on prevalence of cognitive impairment following acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) of any cause.

METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for observational studies focused on cognitive impairment in adult survivors of ARDS. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence (GRADE) were assessed. A meta-analysis using a random effects model was performed to estimate the overall prevalence of cognitive impairment after ARDS, with subgroup analyses for COVID-19-related ARDS (C-ARDS). Additionally, a meta-regression was conducted to assess the influence of demographic and clinical predictors on cognitive outcomes. Heterogeneity was assessed using τ[2] and the I[2] statistic.

RESULTS: We identified 14 studies with 1451 participants, with 650 participants (range: 13-98) included in the analyses. In the subgroup of C-ARDS, 12 studies with 563 participants (range: 13-98) were considered. The pooled prevalence of cognitive impairment following ARDS was 36% (95% CI 26-46%), with high heterogeneity between studies (I[2] = 92%, τ[2] = 0.03). In C-ARDS cohorts, the prevalence was 34% (95% CI 22-45%), with similar levels of heterogeneity (I[2] = 92.7%, τ[2] = 0.03). Meta-regression analysis showed  that older age predicted a higher prevalence of cognitive impairment following ARDS (b = 0.02, p = 0.033), reducing between-study heterogeneity (I² = 60.04%, τ² = 0.01). ICU stay, sex, and time from ICU discharge to cognitive assessment showed no significant associations (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis corroborates previous findings that cognitive impairment remains a persistent issue for ARDS survivors. The prevalence of cognitive impairments following ARDS highlights the importance of future research to unravel the complex underlying mechanisms contributing to these deficits and to develop targeted strategies for prevention and rehabilitation in survivors.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/complications/epidemiology/psychology
*Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/etiology
Prevalence
Incidence

@article {pmid40269273,
year = {2025},
author = {Male, V and Jones, CE},
title = {Vaccination in pregnancy to protect the newborn.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40269273},
issn = {1474-1741},
abstract = {Infectious diseases pose a particular risk to newborns and there is a global need to protect this vulnerable group. Because of the challenges of developing vaccines that are effective in newborns, only the hepatitis B and tuberculosis vaccines are given in the first 28 days of life, and even those vaccines are mainly only offered to high-risk groups. Maternal antibodies cross the placenta and can afford some protection to the newborn, so an alternative strategy is vaccination in pregnancy. This approach has been successfully used to protect newborns against tetanus and pertussis, and vaccines that are primarily offered to protect the mother during pregnancy, such as influenza and COVID-19 vaccines, also provide some protection to newborns. A respiratory syncytial virus vaccine has recently been approved for use in pregnancy to protect newborns, and a new vaccine that will be offered during pregnancy to prevent Group B Streptococcus infection in infants is on the horizon. Here, we discuss the current vaccines that are offered during pregnancy and to newborns, the vaccines in development for future use in these groups and the challenges that remain concerning the delivery and uptake of such vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40268602,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubin, BK},
title = {Pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine - Best recent articles to read in 2025.},
journal = {Paediatric respiratory reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.prrv.2025.04.002},
pmid = {40268602},
issn = {1526-0550},
abstract = {It is a challenge to select the "best" recent publications in a field. This is especially so when faced with a feast of outstanding manuscripts across a broad range of topics. I therefore reached out to a Who's Who of friends and colleagues in pediatric pulmonary and sleep medicine for suggestions, and I was delighted and overwhelmed by the response - please see the Acknowledgements for those who contributed ideas. Overwhelmed, by having to read 77 publications suggested by one or more colleagues and having to winnow the list down to a somewhat reasonable number. I chose to include all papers mentioned by two or more of my colleagues and I then selected the remainder to cover the broad range of our field, based upon my belief that a manuscript represented an important contribution to our understanding and clinical care. What follows are the chosen papers organized by topic area. Given the number of papers that made the final cut, I have briefly summarized each of these manuscripts. I hope that you will find something new and exciting in these publications and that you will have as much fun in reading them as I did.},
}

@article {pmid40267760,
year = {2025},
author = {Freund, R and Favara, M and Porter, C and Scott, D and Duc, LT},
title = {Under pressure: Assessing the relationship between job loss and mental health of young adults in Vietnam.},
journal = {Social science & medicine (1982)},
volume = {375},
number = {},
pages = {118073},
doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2025.118073},
pmid = {40267760},
issn = {1873-5347},
abstract = {We examine the association between job loss and mental health among young people in Vietnam using longitudinal data from the Young Lives survey. We exploit the timing of the first severe wave of COVID-19 which occurred between rounds of a phone survey, allowing comparison of pre- and post-wave job status and mental health for the same individuals. Using fixed effects regressions, our findings suggest that job loss is associated with increased levels of anxiety but not depression, in the short run. Specifically, job loss is linked to a 5.9 percentage point (pp) rise in the probability of experiencing symptoms of mild or severe anxiety, nearly double the pre-wave baseline. This association is particularly evident among individuals in the top earnings tercile who no longer live in their natal household, who experience nearly a 17pp increase in the probability of at least mild anxiety. Additional analysis suggests that financial strain and food insecurity may explain just over 20% of the observed associations. These findings highlight the need for targeted mental health and psychosocial support interventions for young people experiencing job loss, particularly among those who are under financial pressure as primary earners in their household.},
}

@article {pmid40266515,
year = {2025},
author = {Krasnova, L and Wong, CH},
title = {Making Universal Vaccines and Antibodies Through Glycoengineering.},
journal = {Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)},
volume = {2926},
number = {},
pages = {35-50},
pmid = {40266515},
issn = {1940-6029},
mesh = {Humans ; Glycosylation ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *Protein Engineering/methods ; Animals ; Influenza Vaccines/immunology ; Vaccine Development/methods ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Polysaccharides/immunology ; Epitopes/immunology ; },
abstract = {Biological glycosylation is a process used by nature to modulate the structure and function of biomolecules, particularly the glycoproteins on the surface of cells. Most human viruses, for example, depend on the host glycosylation machinery to create a sugar coat on the viral surface to facilitate infection and escape immune surveillance. The main immunogens of influenza and COVID viruses are mostly shielded by the sugar coat from immune response, so deletion of the sugar coat would expose the highly conserved epitopes and elicit broadly protective antibody and T cell responses against the virus and different variants. In addition to increased memory T cell response, the antibodies induced by such low-sugar vaccines are more diverse with higher titers against the immunogen, especially the highly conserved epitopes, thus broadening the scope of protection. Furthermore, the Fc-glycans on the antibody can be engineered to improve antibody-mediated killing. This review highlights the impact of glycosylation engineering on the development of universal vaccines and antibodies with improved Fc-mediated killing.},
}

Humans
Glycosylation
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*Protein Engineering/methods
Animals
Influenza Vaccines/immunology
Vaccine Development/methods
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Polysaccharides/immunology
Epitopes/immunology

@article {pmid40266228,
year = {2025},
author = {Pilewskie, M and Prosperi, C and Bernasconi, A and Esteban, I and Niehaus, L and Ross, C and Carcelen, AC and Moss, WJ and Winter, AK},
title = {The Use of Residual Blood Specimens in Seroprevalence Studies for Vaccine-Preventable Diseases: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40266228},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {OPP1094816//The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Residual blood specimens offer a cost- and time-efficient alternative for conducting serological surveys. However, their use is often criticized due to potential issues with the representativeness of the target population and/or limited availability of associated metadata. We conducted a scoping review to examine where, when, how, and why residual blood specimens have been used in serological surveys for vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) and how potential selection biases are addressed. Methods: The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines and identified relevant papers published in 1990-2022. Results: A total of 601 articles met the inclusion criteria after title, abstract screening, and full-text review. The most studied VPDs using residual blood specimens were COVID-19 (27%), hepatitis E (16%), hepatitis B (10%), influenza (9%), HPV (7%), and measles (7%). Residual blood specimens were primarily sourced from diagnostic specimens (61%) or blood and plasma donations (37%). Almost all articles used specimens linked to basic demographic data (e.g., age and sex), with 47% having access to extended demographic data (e.g., geographic location). Common strategies to address potential biases included comparing results with published estimates (78%) and performing stratified analyses (71%). Conclusions: Residual blood specimens are widely used in seroprevalence studies, particularly during emerging disease outbreaks when rapid estimates are critical. However, this review highlighted inconsistencies in how researchers analyze and report the use of residual specimens. We propose a set of recommendations to improve the analysis, reporting, and ethical considerations of serological surveys using residual specimens.},
}

@article {pmid40266208,
year = {2025},
author = {Loddo, F and Laganà, P and Rizzo, CE and Calderone, SM and Romeo, B and Venuto, R and Maisano, D and Fedele, F and Squeri, R and Nicita, A and Nirta, A and Genovese, G and Bartucciotto, L and Genovese, C},
title = {Intestinal Microbiota and Vaccinations: A Systematic Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40266208},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Background: Vaccination constitutes a low-cost, safe, and efficient public health measure that can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases and benefit the community. The fact that vaccination effectiveness varies among populations, and that the causes of this are still unclear, indicates that several factors are involved and should be thoroughly examined. The "intestinal microbiota" is the most crucial of these elements. Numerous clinical studies demonstrate the intestinal microbiota's significance in determining the alleged "immunogenicity" and efficacy of vaccines. This systematic review aimed to review all relevant scientific literature and highlight the role of intestinal microbiota in COVID-19, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, and rotavirus vaccinations. Materials and Methods: The MESH terms "vaccines" and "microbiota" were used to search the major scientific databases PubMed, SciVerse Scopus, Web of Knowledge, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials. Results: Between February 2024 and October 2024, the analysis was conducted using electronic databases, yielding a total of 235 references. Finally, 24 RCTs were chosen after meeting all inclusion criteria: eight studies of COVID-19, two studies of Salmonella typhi, three studies of Vibrio cholerae, and eleven studies of rotavirus. Only six of these demonstrated good study quality with a Jadad score of three or four. Conclusions: According to the review's results, the intestinal microbiota surely plays a role in vaccinations' enhanced immunogenicity, especially in younger people. As it is still unclear what mechanisms underlie this effect, more research is needed to better understand the role of the intestinal microbiota.},
}

@article {pmid40266207,
year = {2025},
author = {Livieratos, A and Gogos, C and Thomas, I and Akinosoglou, K},
title = {Vaccination Strategies: Mixing Paths Versus Matching Tracks.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40266207},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Vaccination strategies play a pivotal role in achieving broad and robust immune protection. With the advent of new technologies and challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases such as SARS-CoV-2, evaluating the efficacy of homologous (matching tracks) and heterologous (mixing paths) vaccination regimens is critical. This article explores mechanistic insights and empirical evidence on the benefits and limitations of these approaches.},
}

@article {pmid40266155,
year = {2025},
author = {Leontari, K and Lianou, A and Tsantes, AG and Filippatos, F and Iliodromiti, Z and Boutsikou, T and Paliatsou, S and Chaldoupis, AE and Ioannou, P and Mpakosi, A and Iacovidou, N and Sokou, R},
title = {Pertussis in Early Infancy: Diagnostic Challenges, Disease Burden, and Public Health Implications Amidst the 2024 Resurgence, with Emphasis on Maternal Vaccination Strategies.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40266155},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Bordetella pertussis is the causative agent of pertussis or whooping cough, an acute and highly contagious respiratory infection that can have serious and fatal complications such as pneumonia, encephalopathy, and seizures, especially for newborns. The disease is endemic not only in the European Union (EU)/European Economic Area (EEA) but also globally. Larger outbreaks are anticipated every three to five years, even in countries where vaccination rates are high. Despite the high pertussis vaccination coverage in developed countries and a low rate of pertussis incidence for many years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, the incidence of pertussis has been on the rise again, with outbreaks in some places, which is referred to as "re-emergence of pertussis". The aim of this review is to underscore the critical importance of achieving high vaccination coverage, particularly among pregnant women, to safeguard vulnerable neonates from pertussis during their early months, before they are eligible for vaccination. This aligns with the need to address diagnostic challenges, mitigate disease severity, and strengthen public health strategies in light of the ongoing 2024 Bordetella pertussis resurgence.},
}

@article {pmid40266118,
year = {2025},
author = {Parodi, JF and Runzer-Colmenares, F and Cano-Gutiérrez, C and Dinamarca-Montecinos, JL and Torre, PB and Villas Boas, PF and Flores-Cohaila, J and Urrunaga-Pastor, D and Gutiérrez-Robledo, LM},
title = {Respiratory Vaccines in Older Adults: A Bibliometric Analysis and Future Research Agenda.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {40266118},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Respiratory infections impact older adults due to immunosenescence and comorbidities, resulting in increased healthcare costs and mortality. While vaccination is a critical preventive measure, research on respiratory vaccines in older adults in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) remains underexplored. This study aims to map the research landscape and identify emerging themes to guide future studies.

METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science database, focusing on publications up to 2023 related to respiratory vaccines in LAC's older adult population. PRISMA-ScR guidelines were followed for data extraction and analysis, with performance metrics and scientometric mapping conducted using Biblioshiny 4.1 and VOSviewer.

RESULTS: Ninety-nine studies spanning forty-one journals and 575 authors were included. Brazil contributed 70% of publications, followed by Mexico and Argentina. Influenza and pneumococcal vaccines were the most studied, focusing on coverage, acceptance, and cost-effectiveness. Emerging themes included COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness and vaccination-associated factors. Brazil was identified as the primary hub for collaboration across the region, while other countries made limited contributions.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight disparities in research output, with Brazil dominating and significant gaps in other LAC countries. Future research should prioritize genomic studies, vaccine efficacy in comorbid populations, and adaptive immunization strategies. Building research capacity and fostering international collaborations are essential for improving vaccination outcomes in older adults across LAC.},
}

@article {pmid39960432,
year = {2025},
author = {Syed, AM and Karius, AK and Ma, J and Wang, PY and Hwang, PM},
title = {Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.},
journal = {Physiology (Bethesda, Md.)},
volume = {40},
number = {4},
pages = {0},
doi = {10.1152/physiol.00056.2024},
pmid = {39960432},
issn = {1548-9221},
support = {HL005101//HHS | NIH | National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/metabolism/physiopathology ; *Mitochondria/metabolism/pathology ; Animals ; COVID-19/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a debilitating multisystem disorder of unclear etiology that affects many individuals worldwide. One of its hallmark symptoms is prolonged fatigue following exertion, a feature also observed in long COVID, suggesting an underlying dysfunction in energy production in both conditions. Here, mitochondrial dysfunction and its potential pathogenetic role in these disorders are reviewed.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/metabolism/physiopathology
*Mitochondria/metabolism/pathology
Animals
COVID-19/metabolism

@article {pmid39847251,
year = {2025},
author = {Kok, HC and Chang, AB and Fong, SM and McCallum, GB and Yerkovich, ST and Grimwood, K},
title = {Antibiotics for Paediatric Community-Acquired Pneumonia: What is the Optimal Course Duration?.},
journal = {Paediatric drugs},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {261-272},
pmid = {39847251},
issn = {1179-2019},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Community-Acquired Infections/drug therapy ; Child ; *Pneumonia, Bacterial/drug therapy ; Child, Preschool ; *Pneumonia/drug therapy ; Infant ; Community-Acquired Pneumonia ; },
abstract = {Despite significant global reductions in cases of pneumonia during the last 3 decades, pneumonia remains the leading cause of post-neonatal mortality in children aged <5 years. Beyond the immediate disease burden it imposes, pneumonia contributes to long-term morbidity, including lung function deficits and bronchiectasis. Viruses are the most common cause of childhood pneumonia, but bacteria also play a crucial role. However, the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for bacterial pneumonia remains uncertain in both low- and middle-income countries and in high-income countries. Knowing the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for pneumonia is crucial for effective antimicrobial stewardship. This is especially important as concerns mount over rising antibiotic resistance in respiratory bacterial pathogens, which increases the risk of treatment failure. Numerous studies have focused on the duration of oral antibiotics and short-term outcomes, such as clinical cure and mortality. In contrast, only one study has examined both intravenous and oral antibiotics and their impact on long-term respiratory outcomes following pneumonia hospitalisation. However, study findings may be influenced by their inclusion criteria when children unlikely to have bacterial pneumonia are included. Efforts to differentiate between bacterial and non-bacterial pneumonia continue, but a validated, accurate, and simple point-of-care diagnostic test remains elusive. Without certainty that a child has bacterial pneumonia, determining the optimal duration of antibiotic treatment is challenging. This review examines the evidence for the recommended duration of antibiotics for treating uncomplicated pneumonia in otherwise healthy children and concludes that the question of duration is unresolved.},
}

Humans
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Community-Acquired Infections/drug therapy
Child
*Pneumonia, Bacterial/drug therapy
Child, Preschool
*Pneumonia/drug therapy
Infant
Community-Acquired Pneumonia

@article {pmid39615116,
year = {2025},
author = {Syed, AA and Eqbal, F and Shamsi, HR and Syed, ARS and Zakir, SJ and Fawzy, M and Khan, KS},
title = {Comparative effectiveness of three common SARS-COV-2 vaccines: A network meta-analysis of randomized trials.},
journal = {Semergen},
volume = {51},
number = {2},
pages = {102343},
doi = {10.1016/j.semerg.2024.102343},
pmid = {39615116},
issn = {1578-8865},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Network Meta-Analysis as Topic ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Moderna, Pfizer, and AstraZeneca SARS-CoV-2 vaccines for preventing COVID-19 have regulatory approval in most countries. We conducted a network meta-analysis to compare their effectiveness.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ICTRP, and Clinicaltrials.gov for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 1st January 2020 and 1st February 2024. Eligible RCTs evaluated the Moderna, Pfizer or AstraZeneca vaccines among healthy individuals and reported the effectiveness of vaccination versus control measured with the outcome occurrence of COVID-19. We performed study selection, data extraction, and quality (risk of bias) assessment in duplicate. Network meta-analysis with random effects models was used to generate odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), evaluating heterogeneity statistically using I[2] for direct comparisons and ranking vaccines hierarchically using the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA). This study was registered on PROSPERO, CRD42023457957.

FINDINGS: Of the 1954 initial citation, 18 RCTs (272,724 participants; 151,034 received one of the vaccines and 121,690 controls) that reported the outcome occurrence of COVID-19 were selected. Of these, 2 (11%) were moderate and 5 (28%) were high in quality. In network meta-analysis, all three vaccines were effective compared directly with control (Moderna OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.07-0.26, I[2] 97%; Pfizer OR 0.10, 95% CI 0.05-0.19, I[2] 78%; AstraZeneca OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.25-0.59, I[2] 63%). Indirect comparison of vaccines using control as the common comparator showed that AstraZeneca was less effective than Moderna (OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.32-6.12) and Pfizer (OR 3.94, 95% CI 1.80-8.60), while Moderna versus Pfizer showed no difference (OR 1.39, 95% CI 0.56-3.46). Vaccine SUCRA probabilities were higher for Pfizer than Moderna and AstraZeneca (92%, 75% and 33% respectively compared to control).

INTERPRETATIONS: Pfizer ranks highest followed by Moderna (without a statistically significant difference) and AstraZeneca vaccines for preventing symptomatic COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Network Meta-Analysis as Topic
Vaccine Efficacy

@article {pmid39601986,
year = {2025},
author = {Kow, CS and Ramachandram, DS and Hasan, SS and Thiruchelvam, K},
title = {Evaluating diclofenac's risks in COVID-19: strategies for mitigating adverse outcomes.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {33},
number = {2},
pages = {885-887},
pmid = {39601986},
issn = {1568-5608},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *Diclofenac/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pharmacists ; Risk Factors ; Patient Education as Topic/methods ; },
abstract = {The use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), particularly diclofenac, during the COVID-19 pandemic has raised concerns due to its potential to worsen disease progression. This commentary evaluates key risks associated with diclofenac and highlights the critical role of pharmacists in mitigating adverse outcomes through careful medication management and patient education. Diclofenac poses unique risks due to its ability to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. In COVID-19, a disease characterized by hyperinflammation, these effects may exacerbate systemic inflammation, contributing to severe outcomes. Moreover, diclofenac's known association with increased cardiovascular risks, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, is especially concerning in patients with COVID-19, who are predisposed to thrombotic complications. The drug's hepatotoxic potential adds another layer of concern, particularly in patients with pre-existing liver dysfunction or those at higher risk due to COVID-19-related liver involvement. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in addressing these risks by conducting thorough medication reviews and assessing patient-specific risk factors. They can guide clinicians and patients toward safer alternatives, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which demonstrate a lower oxidative and cardiovascular burden. Patient education is equally critical; pharmacists should counsel individuals on potential adverse effects of diclofenac, such as cardiovascular symptoms, renal dysfunction, and liver complications, while advising on lifestyle modifications and adjunctive therapies to reduce NSAID dependence. Additionally, pharmacists contribute to pharmacovigilance by monitoring patients for adverse drug reactions and reporting safety concerns to improve NSAID usage guidelines during the pandemic. By adopting a personalized approach to NSAID therapy, pharmacists can minimize risks and enhance patient safety, ultimately improving outcomes in the management of COVID-19 and other inflammatory conditions. This underscores their indispensable role in optimizing care during complex clinical scenarios.},
}

Humans
*Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*Diclofenac/adverse effects/administration & dosage
COVID-19
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pharmacists
Risk Factors
Patient Education as Topic/methods

@article {pmid39580748,
year = {2025},
author = {Thibault, D},
title = {Disconnect to Reconnect: Practical Approaches to Managing Social Media's Impact on Pediatric Mental Health.},
journal = {Journal of pediatric health care : official publication of National Association of Pediatric Nurse Associates & Practitioners},
volume = {39},
number = {2},
pages = {292-296},
doi = {10.1016/j.pedhc.2024.10.005},
pmid = {39580748},
issn = {1532-656X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Media/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Adolescent ; *Mental Health ; Child ; Suicidal Ideation ; Screen Time ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The pediatric mental health crisis has intensified, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Social media and electronic use have been significant contributors to this issue.

METHODS: This paper explores existing literature and clinical guidelines to assess the impact of electronic overuse on pediatric mental health, focusing on practical interventions for healthcare providers.

RESULTS: Studies show that increased screen time correlates with heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, particularly among vulnerable populations such as racial minorities and LGBTQ+ youth.

DISCUSSION: Healthcare providers, especially nurse practitioners, are in prime position to address these issues through evidence-based screening tools, setting boundaries for electronic use, and supporting caregivers. Proactive, holistic interventions are key to mitigating the long-term effects of social media on adolescent mental health.},
}

Humans
*Social Media/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Adolescent
*Mental Health
Child
Suicidal Ideation
Screen Time
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39565217,
year = {2025},
author = {Deshmukh, H and Whitsett, J and Zacharias, W and Way, SS and Martinez, FD and Mizgerd, J and Pryhuber, G and Ambalavanan, N and Bacharier, L and Natarajan, A and Tamburro, R and Lin, S and Randolph, A and Nino, G and Mejias, A and Ramilo, O and , },
title = {Impact of Viral Lower Respiratory Tract Infection (LRTI) in Early Childhood (0-2 Years) on Lung Growth and Development and Lifelong Trajectories of Pulmonary Health: A National Institutes of Health (NIH) Workshop Summary.},
journal = {Pediatric pulmonology},
volume = {60},
number = {1},
pages = {e27357},
pmid = {39565217},
issn = {1099-0496},
support = {P30 ES001247/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; //This research was supported by the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health, National Institutes of Health (NIH)./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Infant ; United States ; Child, Preschool ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology/physiopathology ; *Lung/growth & development/virology ; Infant, Newborn ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; National Institutes of Health (U.S.) ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Viral lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) are ubiquitous in early life. They are disproportionately severe in infants and toddlers (0-2 years), leading to more than 100,000 hospitalizations in the United States per year. The recent relative resilience to severe Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) observed in young children is surprising. These observations, taken together, underscore current knowledge gaps in the pathogenesis of viral lower respiratory tract diseases in young children and respiratory developmental immunology. Further, early-life respiratory viral infections could have a lasting impact on lung development with potential life-long pulmonary sequelae. Modern molecular methods, including high-resolution spatial and single-cell technologies, in concert with longitudinal observational studies beginning in the prenatal period and continuing into early childhood, promise to elucidate developmental pulmonary and immunophenotypes following early-life viral infections and their impact on trajectories of future respiratory health. In November 2019, under the auspices of a multi-disciplinary Workshop convened by the National Heart Lung Blood Institute and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, experts came together to highlight the challenges of respiratory viral infections, particularly in early childhood, and emphasize the knowledge gaps in immune, virological, developmental, and clinical factors that contribute to disease severity and long-term pulmonary morbidity from viral LRTI in children. We hope that the scientific community will view these challenges in clinical care on pulmonary health trajectories and disease burden not as a window of susceptibility but as a window of opportunity.},
}

Humans
Infant
United States
Child, Preschool
*Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology/physiopathology
*Lung/growth & development/virology
Infant, Newborn
*COVID-19/epidemiology
National Institutes of Health (U.S.)
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39550729,
year = {2025},
author = {Hamidizadeh, M and Martins, RF and Bier, FF},
title = {Point-of-Care Diagnostics Using Self-heating Elements from Smart Food Packaging: Moving Towards Instrument-Free Nucleic Acid-Based Detection.},
journal = {Molecular diagnosis & therapy},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {67-80},
pmid = {39550729},
issn = {1179-2000},
support = {964248//H2020 European Institute of Innovation and Technology/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/methods ; *Point-of-Care Systems ; *Food Packaging/methods ; *Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods ; *Point-of-Care Testing ; *Nucleic Acids ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; },
abstract = {Compromising between accuracy and rapidity is an important issue in analytics and diagnostics, often preventing timely and appropriate reactions to disease. This issue is particularly critical for infectious diseases, where reliable and rapid diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and easier containment, thereby reducing economic and societal impacts. Diagnostic technologies are vital in disease modeling, tracking, treatment decision making, and epidemic containment. At the point-of-care level in modern healthcare, accurate diagnostics, especially those involving genetic-level analysis and nucleic acid amplification techniques, are still needed. However, implementing these techniques in remote or non-laboratory settings poses challenges because of the need for trained personnel and specialized equipment, as all nucleic acid-based diagnostic techniques, such as polymerase chain reaction and isothermal nucleic acid amplification, require temperature cycling or elevated and stabilized temperatures. However, in smart food packaging, there are approved and commercially available methods that use temperature regulation to enable autonomous heat generation without external sources, such as chemical heaters with phase change materials. These approaches could be applied in diagnostics, facilitating point-of-care, electricity-free molecular diagnostics, especially with nucleic acid-based detection methods such as isothermal nucleic acid amplification. In this review, we explore the potential interplay between self-heating elements, isothermal nucleic acid amplification techniques, and phase change materials. This paves the way for the development of truly portable, electricity-free, point-of-care diagnostic tools, particularly advantageous for on-site detection in resource-limited remote settings and for home use.},
}

Humans
*Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/methods
*Point-of-Care Systems
*Food Packaging/methods
*Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods
*Point-of-Care Testing
*Nucleic Acids
SARS-CoV-2/genetics

@article {pmid39489610,
year = {2025},
author = {Wiium, N},
title = {Commentary: The COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on adolescent development: Embracing a more ecological perspective.},
journal = {Journal of research on adolescence : the official journal of the Society for Research on Adolescence},
volume = {35},
number = {1},
pages = {e13036},
pmid = {39489610},
issn = {1532-7795},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Adolescent ; *Adolescent Development ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Peer Group ; Social Support ; Mental Health ; },
abstract = {To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on young people's functioning, relationships, and well-being, four systematic reviews were put together to shed light on school experiences, family and peer relationships, and civic engagement during the pandemic. The reviews presented research findings on the protective role of several personal and contextual resources including intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, family, school, peer, and community support, as well as the harming effect of risk factors, such as poor mental health, COVID-19-related stressors, and technological challenges, thus highlighting the significant role of both personal and contextual factors in adolescent development and well-being. Equally important, the research findings collectively suggested an ecological perspective of the determining factors, although the focus was largely on factors in immediate contexts (family, school, peers, and local community). Adopting a more holistic approach that also considers factors in other ecological contexts (e.g., partnership between immediate contexts, the influence of cultural values and norms along with educational and developmental transitions) can be crucial in addressing the specific needs of young people across diverse contexts and cultures during a pandemic and in general. In addressing their needs, the ever-growing digital space of young people can be utilized to connect them to services and supportive networks in their contexts including distal ones.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Adolescent
*Adolescent Development
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Peer Group
Social Support
Mental Health

@article {pmid39467924,
year = {2025},
author = {Arigo, D and Jake-Schoffman, DE and Pagoto, SL},
title = {The recent history and near future of digital health in the field of behavioral medicine: an update on progress from 2019 to 2024.},
journal = {Journal of behavioral medicine},
volume = {48},
number = {1},
pages = {120-136},
pmid = {39467924},
issn = {1573-3521},
support = {K24 HL124366/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; K24HL124366/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; DP2HL73857/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; K23HL36657/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Behavioral Medicine/trends/methods ; *COVID-19 ; *Telemedicine/trends ; Artificial Intelligence ; Health Behavior ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {The field of behavioral medicine has a long and successful history of leveraging digital health tools to promote health behavior change. Our 2019 summary of the history and future of digital health in behavioral medicine (Arigo in J Behav Med 8: 67-83, 2019) was one of the most highly cited articles in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine from 2010 to 2020; here, we provide an update on the opportunities and challenges we identified in 2019. We address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on behavioral medicine research and practice and highlight some of the digital health advances it prompted. We also describe emerging challenges and opportunities in the evolving ecosystem of digital health in the field of behavioral medicine, including the emergence of new evidence, research methods, and tools to promote health and health behaviors. Specifically, we offer updates on advanced research methods, the science of digital engagement, dissemination and implementation science, and artificial intelligence technologies, including examples of uses in healthcare and behavioral medicine. We also provide recommendations for next steps in these areas with attention to ethics, training, and accessibility considerations. The field of behavioral medicine has made meaningful advances since 2019 and continues to evolve with impressive pace and innovation.},
}

Humans
*Behavioral Medicine/trends/methods
*COVID-19
*Telemedicine/trends
Artificial Intelligence
Health Behavior
SARS-CoV-2
Digital Health

@article {pmid39460684,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, JL and Khalid, H and Alvaran, KAB and Hey, S and Watson, N and Karagama, Y},
title = {Improving Laryngeal Procedure Workflow: Moving From the Operating Room to the Outpatient Setting.},
journal = {The Laryngoscope},
volume = {135},
number = {3},
pages = {1132-1142},
doi = {10.1002/lary.31849},
pmid = {39460684},
issn = {1531-4995},
mesh = {Humans ; *Workflow ; *Ambulatory Surgical Procedures/methods ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Operating Rooms/organization & administration ; England ; *Laryngeal Diseases/surgery ; State Medicine/organization & administration ; *Otolaryngology/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Laryngology disease burden is growing while theater capacity is falling. Over half a million patients are waiting for ENT care in England alone (1). The demand for laryngology services has continued to grow significantly, particularly post-COVID (2). Meanwhile, the number and efficiency of ENT theater lists are reduced (3). To tackle the growing backlog, NHS England has emphasized the need for innovative strategies by separating elective from emergency services and by increasing the resilience of elective delivery (4). The establishment of an office-based laryngology procedure clinic is a potential solution.

METHODS: We offer a narrative review and audit of our experience in founding an in-office laryngology procedure service within a tertiary NHS center with the aim of streamlining this setup process for other interested ENT units.

RESULTS: We outline an in-depth exploration of the personnel, equipment, and processes necessary to establish an in-office procedure clinic. Our experience showed that the procedure clinic functions well when implemented within the framework of existing ENT elective and emergency services. Although there is initial investment required in terms of money, effort, and time, our outcomes show that the clinical and economic benefits of the clinic outweigh the costs, also allowing for patients to access investigations and treatments reliably and efficiently.

CONCLUSION: Setting up a laryngology in-office procedure clinic within the NHS confers patient, organizational, and economic benefits. It provides a novel and resilient approach in addressing the growing backlog of patients awaiting laryngology care and should be popularized in the current health care environment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4 Laryngoscope, 135:1132-1142, 2025.},
}

Humans
*Workflow
*Ambulatory Surgical Procedures/methods
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Operating Rooms/organization & administration
England
*Laryngeal Diseases/surgery
State Medicine/organization & administration
*Otolaryngology/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37760842,
year = {2023},
author = {Németh, M and Mühl, D and Csontos, C and Nagy, Á and Alizadeh, H and Szakács, Z},
title = {Acquired Hemophilia A after SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Case Report and an Updated Systematic Review.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {11},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {37760842},
issn = {2227-9059},
abstract = {The role of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of acquired hemophilia A (AHA). The aim of this study is to report our case and to summarize clinical studies on de novo AHA after SARS-CoV-2 infection. We performed a systematic search on the association of SARS-CoV-2 with AHA in four medical databases up to 28 May 2023. Eligible studies should include de novo AHA patients who had SARS-CoV-2 infection before or concomitant with the diagnosis of AHA. Findings were synthesized narratively. In addition, we report the case of a 62-year-old female patient, who presented to our clinic with left flank pain 2 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Clinical investigations confirmed AHA and imaging studies revealed retroperitoneal bleeding. Her hemostasis was successfully secured with bypassing agents; however, despite immunosuppressive therapy, high inhibitor titer persisted. In the systematic review, we identified only 12 relevant cases with a questionable cause-effect relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and AHA. Based on the qualitative analysis of the relevant publications, current clinical evidence is insufficient to support a cause-effect relationship. The analysis of data from ongoing AHA registries can serve further evidence.},
}

@article {pmid36453639,
year = {2025},
author = {van Schaik, T and Brouwer, MA and Knibbe, NE and Knibbe, HJJ and Teunissen, SCCM},
title = {The Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Grief Experiences of Bereaved Relatives: An Overview Review.},
journal = {Omega},
volume = {91},
number = {2},
pages = {851-884},
pmid = {36453639},
issn = {1541-3764},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Grief ; *Family/psychology ; Adaptation, Psychological ; Social Support ; *Bereavement ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted grief experiences of bereaved relatives and altered accustomed ways of coping with loss. To understand how bereaved relatives experienced grief during COVID-19, a review, using the overview method, was conducted. An overview of empirical data about this subject has been lacking and therefore, PubMed and CINAHL databases were searched for empirical studies published from January 1, 2020 until December 31, 2021. 28 articles were included in the review. Thematic analysis showed different emotional responses, changes in grief, the effect of absence during final moments, a lack of involvement in the caring process, the impact on communities and social support systems and the alteration of funerals among bereaved relatives. During COVID-19, death is characterized by poor bereavement outcomes and health implications, but bereaved also show signs of resilience and coping. Directions for future research about cultural and societal differences in grief and support methods are suggested.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
*Grief
*Family/psychology
Adaptation, Psychological
Social Support
*Bereavement
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40266112,
year = {2025},
author = {Wong, J and Gill, C and Abdo, A and Eisa, A},
title = {The Influence of Financial Incentives on Vaccination Hesitancy: A Narrative Review of Recent Research.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13030256},
pmid = {40266112},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccine hesitancy represents a significant global health challenge that greatly hinders public health efforts focused on managing the transmission of infectious diseases. A wealth of original research conducted worldwide has examined various incentives that could help alleviate vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccination rates. Although some findings are conflicting, no comprehensive review has yet assessed the overall effectiveness of these strategies. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by examining how financial incentives influence people's willingness to undergo vaccination.

METHODS: In August 2024, we extensively searched four databases for studies focusing on financial incentives and vaccination rates. Examples of financial incentives included lottery tickets and hypothetical or physical monetary rewards ranging in various amounts depending on the study. We selected nineteen relevant articles from a larger pool and evaluated them for validity and bias.

RESULTS: Around eighty percent of the research focused on COVID-19 vaccines, driven by the ongoing pandemic and the debates surrounding their use. Most of the studies indicated a positive influence of financial incentives on vaccination rates, although they often came with a higher risk of bias. Conversely, several studies suggest that financial incentives do not result in benefits. Instead, they highlight other factors that have a more profound effect on influencing people to undergo vaccination. The remaining studies are inconclusive regarding the effectiveness of financial incentives, concluding the need for further research. The strategies to mitigate these concerns included a combination of legal and monetary incentives.

SUMMARY: The effectiveness of financial incentives in boosting vaccination rates seems to differ significantly based on the region and context. They tend to be more effective in economically disadvantaged developing countries. In contrast, in developed nations, they may be ineffective or counterproductive due to various confounding factors such as financial background, lack of trust in the healthcare system, and/or lack of patient education. In resource-rich areas, educational programs often yield better results, and addressing widespread mistrust in healthcare systems and governmental policies through transparency is essential. Ultimately, employing tailored incentives alongside public education could enhance vaccination acceptance, particularly in culturally diverse countries like the United States, where understanding community preferences is crucial.},
}

@article {pmid40266109,
year = {2025},
author = {Inauen, J and LaBroome, S and Maldari, A and Stevens, NE and Geake, JB and Lynn, DJ and Barry, S},
title = {Efficacy of Bacille Calmette-Guérin Against COVID-19 Hospitalisation: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Randomised Control Trials.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13030267},
pmid = {40266109},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The BCG vaccine has long been hypothesised to have non-specific protective effects, and early epidemiological studies on COVID-19 suggested a possible protective effect against SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 severity. This systematic review and meta-analysis assesses the effect of the BCG vaccine on preventing severe COVID-19 disease, based on the rate of hospitalisation for COVID-19 related disease.

METHODS: We performed a literature search of randomised control trials comparing BCG vaccine to placebo in adult participants using EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. A random effects model was used to generate summary estimates. Risk of bias was assessed regarding randomisation, allocation sequence concealment, blinding, incomplete outcome data, selective outcome reporting, and other biases.

RESULTS: We included 11 studies involving 18,412 participants, reporting COVID-19 incidence. The hospitalisation rate was sought from the authors of papers that did not report on this statistic. There was no significant reduction in COVID-19-related hospitalisation across all studies (relative risk 0.85, 0.51-1.40, p = 0.335), COVID-19 incidence across all studies (relative risk 1.07, 0.94-1.21, p = 0.264), deaths reported in six studies (relative risk 0.67, 0.36-1.26, p = 0.733), and COVID-19-related critical care admissions reported in four studies (relative risk 0.43, 0.13-1.46, p = 0.746).

CONCLUSIONS: The findings from this meta-analysis, involving a large number of participants, suggest no protective effect of BCG vaccination against severe COVID-19 outcomes or overall SARS-CoV-2 incidence. Further research may be needed to explore the potential non-specific effects of BCG vaccination in other specific populations and against other infections.},
}

@article {pmid40266105,
year = {2025},
author = {Fousseni, S and Ngangue, P and Barro, A and Ramde, SW and Bihina, LT and Ngoufack, MN and Bayoulou, S and Kiki, GM and Salfo, O},
title = {Navigating the Road to Immunization Equity: Systematic Review of Challenges in Introducing New Vaccines into Sub-Saharan Africa's Health Systems.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13030269},
pmid = {40266105},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Over the past 50 years, developing new vaccines has been pivotal in responding to emerging and re-emerging diseases globally. However, despite substantial partner support, introducing new vaccines in sub-Saharan Africa remains challenging. This systematic review documents the barriers to new vaccine introduction in sub-Saharan Africa by distinguishing between vaccines integrated into routine immunization programs and those introduced primarily for outbreak response. Methods: A comprehensive electronic search was conducted across five databases for articles published in English or French on the challenges of new vaccine introduction in sub-Saharan Africa. Three reviewers screened articles independently based on the titles and abstracts, with full-text assessments conducted for inclusion. Data were analyzed thematically and synthesized narratively. Results: A total of 796 articles were retrieved from the five databases. Following the screening, 33 articles were finally retained and included in the review. These articles concerned the introduction of eight new vaccines (malaria vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine, HPV vaccine, Ebola vaccine, cholera vaccine, hepatitis B vaccine, rotavirus vaccine, and typhoid vaccine). The analyses revealed coordination and financing challenges for six vaccines in seventeen countries, acceptability challenges for five vaccines in ten countries, logistical challenges for two vaccines in six countries, and quality service delivery challenges for three vaccines in thirteen countries. Conclusions: Addressing the challenges of introducing new vaccines in sub-Saharan Africa requires targeted, evidence-based strategies. Prioritizing political commitment, innovative funding, public education, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements will strengthen immunization systems and enable timely vaccine delivery. Collaborative efforts and a focus on local context can advance equitable health outcomes, safeguard public health, and support global immunization goals.},
}

@article {pmid40266071,
year = {2025},
author = {Kwok, WC and Wong, JC and Cheung, A and Tam, TC},
title = {Vaccination in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {13},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines13030218},
pmid = {40266071},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is often exacerbated by various viruses and bacteria, leading to acute episodes of worsening respiratory symptoms, which contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality associated with COPD. Consequently, vaccination against these pathogens is recommended by numerous guidelines to safeguard COPD patients from adverse health outcomes. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) recommendation advocates for vaccination against influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV2), pertussis, and varicella zoster. This review article will examine the current vaccination strategies recommended for adult COPD patients and will discuss the clinical benefits associated with these vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid40265842,
year = {2025},
author = {Matthews, L and Cook, J and Stephan, R and Milacic, M and Rothfels, K and Shamovsky, V and Jassal, B and Haw, R and Sevilla, C and Gong, C and Ragueneau, E and May, B and Wright, A and Weiser, J and Beavers, D and Tiwari, K and Senff-Ribeiro, A and Varusai, T and Hermjakob, H and D'Eustachio, P and Wu, G and Stein, L and Gillespie, ME},
title = {Advancing curation of viral life cycles, host interactions, and therapeutics in Reactome.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0202424},
doi = {10.1128/jvi.02024-24},
pmid = {40265842},
issn = {1098-5514},
abstract = {Reactome (reactome.org) is a manually curated, peer-reviewed, open-source, open-access pathway knowledgebase of essential human cellular functions. Reactome includes viral life cycles that capture a broad range of virus-induced human pathology. Here, we describe a workflow using collaborative curation strategies, orthoinference procedures, and literature triage to rapidly create reliable molecular models of emergent viruses. The resulting pathway data set rigorously details viral infection pathways, interactions with normal human biological processes, and potential therapeutic compounds.},
}

@article {pmid40265383,
year = {2025},
author = {Contractor, JB and Radha, V and Shah, K and Singh, P and Tadepalli, S and Nimbalkar, S and Mohan, V and Shah, P},
title = {Congenital Hyperinsulinism India Association: An Approach to Address the Challenges and Opportunities of a Rare Disease.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medsci13020037},
pmid = {40265383},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {Humans ; India/epidemiology ; *Congenital Hyperinsulinism/genetics/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy ; *Rare Diseases/epidemiology/genetics/therapy/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {India's population complexity presents varied challenges in genetic research, and while facilities have gained traction in tier-1 and -2 cities, reliance on international collaborations often delays such investigations. COVID-19 further exacerbated the issues with such sample sharing. Congenital Hyperinsulinism (CHI) is a rare genetic disorder of pancreatic β-cells causing hypoglycaemia in children due to abnormal insulin secretion. Given India's high birth rate and consanguineous populations, annual CHI cases are estimated to be around up to 10,000, with up to 50% having unexplained genetic causes. Diffuse or atypical lesions in such patients often necessitate near-total-pancreatectomy, risking pancreatic exocrine insufficiency and diabetes, requiring lifelong therapy. Also, novel genetic variations complicate accurate diagnosis, risk assessment, and counselling, emphasising the need for rapid genetic assessment to prevent neurological injuries and inform treatment decisions. Despite significant efforts at many institutes, there are no dedicated organisations for CHI in India. With the implementation of the National Policy for Rare Diseases 2021, we plan to form a non-profit organisation, "Congenital Hyperinsulinism India Association (CHIA)", comprising paediatric endocrinologists, paediatricians, geneticists, and independent researchers. The aims of this association are to generate a national database registry of patients, formulate a parent support group and CHIA consortium, design patient information leaflets, as well as foster genomic collaborations and promote clinical trials. Such steps will help sensitise the health authorities and policy makers, urging them to improve the allocation of health budgets for rare diseases, as well as empower patients and their families, contributing towards a better quality of life.},
}

Humans
India/epidemiology
*Congenital Hyperinsulinism/genetics/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy
*Rare Diseases/epidemiology/genetics/therapy/diagnosis

@article {pmid40265202,
year = {2025},
author = {Lau, MPXL and Ling, RR and Ong, BJA and Cho, HJ and Jeong, IS and Sahoo, TK and Chua, HR and Shekar, K and Ramanathan, K},
title = {Kidney replacement therapy during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: pathophysiology, technical considerations, and outcomes.},
journal = {Renal failure},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {2486557},
doi = {10.1080/0886022X.2025.2486557},
pmid = {40265202},
issn = {1525-6049},
mesh = {Humans ; *Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/methods/adverse effects ; *Acute Kidney Injury/therapy/physiopathology/etiology ; *Renal Replacement Therapy/methods ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been increasing over time, in part due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst lifesaving, complications that must be managed are also associated with its use. AKI and fluid overload are complications of concern due to their associations with poor outcomes, and ability to be managed by additional interventions such as the use of kidney replacement therapy. Various modalities, timings, and types of kidney replacement therapy are currently being used and outcomes regarding its concurrent use with extracorporeal membranous oxygenation across centers may be mixed. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology of AKI, methods, modalities and impact of concurrent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and kidney replacement therapy.},
}

Humans
*Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation/methods/adverse effects
*Acute Kidney Injury/therapy/physiopathology/etiology
*Renal Replacement Therapy/methods
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid40265016,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, D and Peng, J and Zhu, Y and Gong, Q and Wang, Q and Xiang, C and Du, H and Hu, X},
title = {Mapping the research landscape of PET/CT in lymphoma: insights from a bibliometric analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in oncology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1513296},
pmid = {40265016},
issn = {2234-943X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research trends in Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) applications for lymphoma, aiming to identify key contributors, emerging topics, and collaboration patterns within the field.

METHODS: Data from the Web of Science Core Collection (2004-2024) were analyzed. Original articles and reviews in English on PET/CT in lymphoma staging, response assessment, or prognosis were included, while case reports, meeting abstracts, and editorials were excluded. Using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Bibliometrix R, we evaluated country/institutional contributions, co-citation networks, keyword trends, and employed linear regression for trend forecasting.

RESULTS: A total of 2,962 papers related to PET/CT and lymphoma were published during the study period. The annual publication volume increased significantly, peaking in 2021 with 281 papers, followed by a decline to 260 in 2023, potentially linked to COVID-19-related research disruptions. The United States and China led in publication volume, contributing over 40% of global publications. Leading institutions included UNICANCER and Assistance Publique Hôpitaux de Paris. Influential authors such as Sally F. Barrington and Michel Meignan were identified. The European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging and the Journal of Nuclear Medicine were the top journals in this field. Key research themes included staging, response assessment, prognosis, and the role of PET/CT in personalized treatment approaches.

CONCLUSION: This bibliometric analysis highlights the significant growth and evolving trends in PET/CT research for lymphoma. The findings underscore the critical role of PET/CT in advancing precision medicine, informing future research directions, and optimizing clinical practices in lymphoma management.},
}

@article {pmid40264303,
year = {2025},
author = {Healy, L and Seto, BY and Cui, H and Li, B},
title = {Non-viral mRNA delivery to the lungs.},
journal = {Biomaterials science},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d5bm00322a},
pmid = {40264303},
issn = {2047-4849},
abstract = {The rapid advancement of mRNA therapeutics, exemplified by COVID-19 vaccines, underscores the transformative potential of non-viral delivery systems. However, achieving efficient and targeted mRNA delivery to the lungs remains a critical challenge due to biological barriers such as pulmonary mucus, nanoparticle instability, and off-target accumulation particularly in the liver. Addressing these challenges is crucial for advancing treatments for respiratory diseases, including cystic fibrosis, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and lung cancers. This review highlights emerging strategies to enhance lung-targeted mRNA delivery, focusing on lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, lipid-polymer hybrids, and peptide/protein conjugates. By discussing advances in bioinspired design and nanoparticle reformulation, this review provides a roadmap for overcoming current delivery limitations and accelerating the clinical translation of lung-targeted mRNA therapies.},
}

@article {pmid40263685,
year = {2025},
author = {Poudineh, M and Amirbeik, A and Firouzabadi, MD and Hajizadeh, M and Kahe, F and Babaniamansour, S and Poopak, A and Tajrishi, FZ and Deravi, N and Rahmanian, M and Ghasemirad, H and Malek, M and Noroozi, M and Fathi, M and Keylani, K and Firouzabadi, AD and Abbasabad, GD and Yazdanian, F and Ramezanpour, S and Babaniamansour, A and Tajrishi, FZ and Mohammadi, S and Ansari, G and Firouzabadi, FD and Yousem, DM},
title = {Olfactory and Gustatory Recovery Time Evaluation of COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Acta medica Indonesiana},
volume = {57},
number = {1},
pages = {18-43},
pmid = {40263685},
issn = {2338-2732},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Olfaction Disorders/virology/etiology ; *Taste Disorders/virology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Recovery of Function ; Pandemics ; Time Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Olfactory dysfunction is a common symptom of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this study, we aimed to evaluate the recovery rate and duration of these symptoms in COVID-19patients.

METHODS: This systematic review was conducted by searching PubMed and Google Scholar from April 1st, 2020, until October 1st, 2022, using the terms ''COVID-19'' OR ''COV-2,'' OR ''Coronavirus 2'' OR coronavirus AND ''loss of smell'' OR Anosmia OR Hyposmia OR olfaction OR ''olfactory loss'' AND ageusia OR Hypogeusia OR dysgeusia OR ''gustatory loss'' OR gustation OR ''loss of taste''. The references of included studies were also manually screened. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-five studies with test-confirmed COVID-19 infection from 31 countries were included. 62 publications which reported data on loss of taste were used to estimate patients' recovery rate in 13700 COVID-19 patients. Accordingly, the time to recovery of loss of taste among COVID-19 patients ranged from 2±0.352 to 43.6 ± 28.5 days. The estimated overall pooled recovery rate of loss of taste among COVID-19 patients was 74%. The estimated overall pooled time to recover loss of taste among COVID-19 patients was 11.44 days [95% CI 8.11, 14.77(]. 90 publications which reported data on loss of smell were used to estimate patients' recovery rate in 20027 COVID-19 patients. Accordingly, the time to recover the loss of smell among COVID-19 patients ranged from 2.44±0.352 to 31.9 ± 30.7 days The estimated overall pooled recovery rate of loss of smell among COVID-19 patients was 72%. The estimated overall pooled time to recover loss of smell among COVID-19 patients was 12.87 days [95% CI)1011, 15.64(].

CONCLUSION: The recovery rate of loss of smell and taste among COVID-19 patients was high globally, and time to recovery of loss of smell and taste among COVID-19 patients usually was less than 2 weeks; regional differences supported the relevance of these symptoms as important markers. Health workers must consider smell and taste symptoms as suspicion indices for the empirical diagnosis of COVID-19 infection and reassure patients with their high recovery rate in a short period of time.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Olfaction Disorders/virology/etiology
*Taste Disorders/virology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
Recovery of Function
Pandemics
Time Factors

@article {pmid40261365,
year = {2025},
author = {Voderholzer, U and Naab, S and Cuntz, U and Schlegl, S},
title = {[Anorexia nervosa-An update. German version].},
journal = {Der Nervenarzt},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40261365},
issn = {1433-0407},
abstract = {Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric disorder with the highest mortality rate among eating disorders. It predominantly affects adolescents and young adults, with a significant increase in prevalence among adolescents observed since the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It is frequently associated with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders as well as numerous physical complications. An early diagnosis and treatment are associated with better outcomes. The treatment of choice for AN includes cognitive behavioral therapy and family-based therapy for children and adolescents. Innovative treatment approaches, such as home treatment and technology-based interventions, have shown promising preliminary results. With the exception of moderate evidence supporting the use of olanzapine regarding weight gain, there is currently no evidence for the efficacy of psychopharmacotherapy in AN. Future research should focus on prevention, early detection and intervention, relapse prevention, personalized treatment approaches, management of comorbid disorders, long-term studies and the influence of psychosocial factors.},
}

@article {pmid40260163,
year = {2025},
author = {Vink, K and Kusters, J and Wallinga, J},
title = {Chrono-optimizing vaccine administration: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1516523},
pmid = {40260163},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunization Schedule ; *Vaccination/methods ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Time Factors ; Female ; Aged ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Increasing evidence suggests that vaccine responses may vary based on the time of day of administration. This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the impact of vaccination timing on immune responses, to assess its potential role in optimizing vaccination programs.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was performed in Embase, Medline and Scopus to identify eligible observational studies and clinical trials that assessed immune responses following vaccination at different times of the day in humans. A meta-analysis of clinical trials was conducted to quantify the effect size of vaccination timing on antibody responses.

RESULTS: The search identified 17 studies that compared vaccine responses at different times of the day, covering vaccinations against COVID-19 (9), influenza (5), hepatitis B (2), hepatitis A (1), and pneumococcal infection (1). Eleven out of these 17 studies demonstrated statistically significant effects of vaccination timing on the antibody response, with 10 reporting stronger antibody responses following morning compared to afternoon vaccination. Of the six subgroups with an average age of 60 years and older, five showed significantly stronger antibody responses following morning vaccination, while the sixth showed a significant effect only in men. In contrast, only five out of 16 subgroups with an average age younger than 60 years showed a statistically significant effect of vaccination timing on antibody titers. Similarly, the meta-analysis indicated that receiving influenza vaccination in the morning elicited a stronger antibody response than in the afternoon (SMD = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.01-0.47), with subgroup analyses revealing a larger effect in adults aged 65 and older (SMD = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.21-0.43) compared to those aged 60 or younger (SMD = 0.00, 95% CI = -0.17-0.17).

CONCLUSION: Morning vaccination enhanced antibody responses in adults aged 60 years and older, a key demographic for influenza and COVID-19 vaccination. Chrono-optimizing vaccine administration may offer a low-risk, low-cost strategy to boost vaccine effectiveness in this age group.

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2025-1-0060/.},
}

Humans
*Immunization Schedule
*Vaccination/methods
COVID-19/prevention & control
Male
Middle Aged
Time Factors
Female
Aged
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage

@article {pmid40260091,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, W and Liu, X and Kang, S and Yuan, Y},
title = {Low vitamin K status is a potential risk factor for COVID-19 infected patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1476622},
pmid = {40260091},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To provide further data support for the treatment of COVID-19 by conducting a comprehensive analysis of reports on dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated Matrix Gla Protein (dp-ucMGP), which detects the functional vitamin K status post COVID-19 infection, using meta-analysis.

METHODS: This study conducted a comprehensive review and analysis of relevant research on dp-ucMGP detection in patients infected with COVID-19 through meta-analysis. The article collection period ranged from January 2024 to April 2024.

RESULTS: A total of 6 articles were included in this study. Baseline data analysis showed that the age of patients in the COVID-19 infected group was greater than that of the non-infected control group (p = 0.030); similarly, the age of patients in the severe infection group was also greater than that of the mild infection group (p = 0.003). In the analysis of underlying diseases, statistical differences were found between the Severe group and Mild group in the presence of CVD (p = 0.010). A total of 5 studies conducted dp-ucMGP detection in both the COVID-19 infected group and the control group. The results showed that the expression of dp-ucMGP was higher in the infected group than in the control group (p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that the expression of dp-ucMGP in the severe infection group was also higher than that in the mild infection group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 infected patients exhibit Low Vitamin K Status, which correlates positively with the severity of infection. Supplementation of vitamin K during COVID-19 infection may potentially mitigate the progression toward severe infection, necessitating further support from clinical data.},
}

@article {pmid40259889,
year = {2025},
author = {Fonseca, WT and Parra Vello, T and Lelis, GC and Ferreira Deleigo, AV and Takahira, RK and Martinez, DST and de Oliveira, RF},
title = {Chemical Sensors and Biosensors for Point-of-Care Testing of Pets: Opportunities for Individualized Diagnostics of Companion Animals.},
journal = {ACS sensors},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acssensors.4c03664},
pmid = {40259889},
issn = {2379-3694},
abstract = {Point-of-care testing (POCT) is recognized as one of the most disruptive medical technologies for rapid and decentralized diagnostics. Successful commercial examples include portable glucose meters, pregnancy tests, and COVID-19 self-tests. However, compared to advancements in human healthcare, POCT technologies for companion animals (pets) remain significantly underdeveloped. This Review explores the latest advancements in pet POCT and examines the challenges and opportunities in the field for individualized diagnostics of cats and dogs. The most frequent diseases and their respective biomarkers in blood, urine, and saliva are discussed. We examine key strategies for developing the next-generation POCT devices by harnessing the potential of selective (bio)receptors and high-performing transducers such as lateral flow tests and electrochemical (bio)sensors. We also present the most recent research initiatives and the successful commercial pet POCT technologies. We discuss future trends in the field, such the role of biomarker discovery and development of wearable, implantable, and breath sensors. We believe that advancing pet POCT technologies benefits not only animals but also humans and the environment, supporting the One Health approach.},
}

@article {pmid40259874,
year = {2025},
author = {Huang, X and Gao, H and Zhang, J and Zhan, P and Liu, X},
title = {A patent review of anti-coronavirus agents targeting the spike-ACE2 interaction (2019-present).},
journal = {Expert opinion on therapeutic patents},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/13543776.2025.2494860},
pmid = {40259874},
issn = {1744-7674},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, crucial for coronavirus recognition of host cells, is a key target for therapeutic intervention against SARS-CoV-2 and related coronaviruses. Therefore, thoroughly investigating the interaction mechanism between ACE2 and the Spike protein (S protein), as well as developing targeted inhibitors based on this mechanism, is vital for effectively controlling the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and preventing potential future pandemics caused by other coronaviruses.

AREAS COVERED: This article comprehensively reviews the mechanisms underlying ACE2-S protein interaction that facilitates SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. It also analyzes the patent landscape regarding inhibitors targeting the ACE2-S interface since 2019.

EXPERT OPINION: In the five years since the outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, numerous methods and design strategies have been employed to develop innovative therapeutics against coronaviruses. Among these approaches, inhibitors targeting both the ACE2 receptor and the S protein have gained significant interest due to their potential in blocking various coronaviruses. Despite facing challenges similar to other protein-protein interaction inhibitors, progress has been made in developing these inhibitors through virtual screening, covalent protein binding, and peptide modification strategies. However, obstacles persist in clinical translation, necessitating a multidisciplinary strategy that integrates state-of-the-art methodologies to optimize S-ACE2 interface-targeted drug discovery.},
}

@article {pmid40259865,
year = {2025},
author = {Bjorvatn, B and Merikanto, I and Chung, F and Holzinger, B and Morin, CM and Penzel, T and De Gennaro, L and Dauvilliers, Y and Wing, YK and Benedict, C and Xue, P and Reis, C and Korman, M and Landtblom, AM and Matsui, K and Hrubos-Strøm, H and Mota-Rolim, S and Nadorff, MR and Berezin, L and Sarkanen, T and Liu, Y and Scarpelli, S and Brandao, LEM and Cedernaes, J and Fränkl, EC and Partinen, E and Bolstad, CJ and Plazzi, G and Partinen, M and Espie, CA},
title = {Sleep During Pandemic Times: Summary of Findings and Future Outlook Through the Lens of the International COVID Sleep Study (ICOSS).},
journal = {Journal of sleep research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70076},
doi = {10.1111/jsr.70076},
pmid = {40259865},
issn = {1365-2869},
abstract = {To study the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep and circadian rhythms-two fundamental pillars for health-the collaboration International COVID-19 Sleep Study (ICOSS) was established. The present overview comprehensively discusses the findings from this collaboration. Involving sleep researchers across the globe, ICOSS used a harmonised questionnaire to cover changes in sleep and sleep disorders, as well as physical and mental health. Two survey waves were conducted, one in 2020 and another one in 2021. In ICOSS-1, a total of 26,539 people from 14 countries across four continents (Europe, Asia, North and South America) participated. In ICOSS-2, two more countries joined ICOSS, and 15,813 people participated. The focus in ICOSS-2 was on Long COVID. Participants accessed the widely disseminated online surveys in their native language. In the 20 papers published so far, the surveys have uncovered several novel findings, including how the pandemic impacted sleep patterns, the prevalence of sleep disorders, chronotype-based differences and sleep-immune system interactions. To the best of our knowledge, there is no other large-scale multinational study targeting the general population investigating the role of sleep and sleep disorders alongside a variety of psychological, biological, social and economic factors during the recent COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid40259707,
year = {2025},
author = {Sajid, M and Ali, D and Qureshi, S and Ahmad, R and Sajjad, A and Waqas, SA and Ahmed, R and Collins, P},
title = {Trends and Disparities in Acute Myocardial Infarction-Related Mortality Among U.S. Adults With Hypertension, 2000-2023.},
journal = {Clinical cardiology},
volume = {48},
number = {4},
pages = {e70129},
doi = {10.1002/clc.70129},
pmid = {40259707},
issn = {1932-8737},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Hypertension/mortality/complications/ethnology/diagnosis ; Male ; United States/epidemiology ; Female ; *Myocardial Infarction/mortality/ethnology ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Adult ; Risk Factors ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Health Status Disparities ; *Healthcare Disparities ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major public health concern and a key risk factor for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), significantly contributing to cardiovascular mortality. Despite advancements in management and treatment, trends in associated mortality remain underexplored.

OBJECTIVE: This study examines U.S. national trends in hypertension- and AMI-associated mortality from 2000 to 2023, focusing on demographics and regions.

METHODS: Age-adjusted mortality rates (AAMRs) per 100,000 for adults aged ≥ 25 with hypertension and AMI were extracted from the CDC WONDER database. Annual percent changes (APCs) and average APCs (AAPCs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated, stratified by year, sex, race/ethnicity, age, urbanization, and Census region.

RESULTS: From 2000 to 2023, 933,024 hypertension- and AMI-related deaths were recorded. Overall, AAMR declined from 19.84 per 100,000 in 2000 to 16.26 in 2023 (AAPC: -0.93%, 95% CI: -1.18% to -0.76%). However, a sharp rise in mortality occurred between 2018 and 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Stratified analyses revealed persistently higher mortality rates among menmen, non-Hispanic BlackBlack individuals, and residents of the Southern and rural U.S. regions. Younger adults showed an increasing AAMR trend, indicating a growing burden of hypertension and AMI-associated disease.

CONCLUSION: While long-term mortality trends show a decline, recent years have seen a rise, particularly among high-risk groups. Targeted public health interventions addressing hypertension management, cardiovascular risk reduction, and healthcare disparities are essential to mitigate the ongoing burden of hypertension and AMI mortality in the U.S.},
}

Humans
*Hypertension/mortality/complications/ethnology/diagnosis
Male
United States/epidemiology
Female
*Myocardial Infarction/mortality/ethnology
Middle Aged
Aged
Adult
Risk Factors
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Health Status Disparities
*Healthcare Disparities

@article {pmid40259563,
year = {2025},
author = {Cornish, F and Sabaine, B and Soares, L and Caldas, B and Portela, MC and Bousquat, A and Aveling, EL},
title = {The erasure of infection-associated chronic conditions: Critical interpretive synthesis of literature on healthcare for long COVID and related conditions in Brazil.},
journal = {Global public health},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {2490720},
doi = {10.1080/17441692.2025.2490720},
pmid = {40259563},
issn = {1744-1706},
mesh = {Humans ; Brazil/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy/complications ; Chronic Disease/epidemiology/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Delivery of Health Care ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Evidence is emerging that long COVID is at least as prevalent in the Global South as the Global North, but literature on long COVID healthcare in the Global South is in its infancy. Brazil is seeing significant levels of debility due to long COVID but a limited national evidence-base. long COVID shares symptomatology and appropriate care with a wider category of infection-associated chronic conditions (IACCs). This article reviews literature published between 2000 and 2023 addressing healthcare for long COVID and IACCs in Brazil, in the interest of exploring challenges and opportunities for the SUS (Brazil's universal health system) to offer appropriate long COVID healthcare. We find that long COVID and IACCs collectively are subject to erasure from Brazilian healthcare knowledge, through lack of expertise, a resource-limited health system prioritising urgent care, and the concentration of poor health in marginalised populations with limited decision-making power. A nascent intellectual will to address long COVID, and a tradition of social participation in healthcare governance present potential opportunities. We call for ignition of a global step-change in tackling healthcare for long COVID and IACCs. Global equity in long COVID healthcare requires the development and sharing of expertise regarding its universal and context-specific features.},
}

Humans
Brazil/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy/complications
Chronic Disease/epidemiology/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
*Delivery of Health Care
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid40258740,
year = {2025},
author = {Semnani, K and Esmaeili, S},
title = {Nuances in the global impact of COVID-19 on tuberculosis control efforts: An updated review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {104},
number = {16},
pages = {e42195},
pmid = {40258740},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Tuberculosis/epidemiology/prevention & control/diagnosis ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has affected public health systems in an unprecedented manner. There has been an abundance of discussion regarding the possible effects of the pandemic in disruption of health services aiming at tuberculosis (TB) infection control - including hindered screening efforts and delays in diagnosis and treatment. The pandemic has also been proposed to affect TB transmission via lifestyle modifications. Moreover, some research has suggested a more direct link between COVID-19 infection and increased TB morbidity and mortality. The authors conducted a narrative review of the relevant literature. Searches were performed in the MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Reports of impaired TB case-notification were ubiquitous during the early stages of the pandemic. Subsequently, divergent patterns emerged: recovery and decreased TB incidence in countries with stringent public health measures, low local transmission of TB, and resilient health systems; or devastating results from TB underdiagnosis and delayed treatment in countries with high TB burden, limited COVID-19 control measures, and public health funding. Few studies quantified the effects of TB and COVID-19 co-infection - and the possible role of COVID-19 infection in reactivation of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) remains ambiguous. Despite the lapse of the COVID-19 pandemic, its effects on TB control efforts perseverate. Particularly, great care is warranted for recovery of impacted healthcare systems in low-income countries.},
}

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

@article {pmid40258634,
year = {2025},
author = {Barry, K and Fernández-García, S and Khashaba, A and Ruiz-Calvo, G and Roncal Redin, M and Mahmoud, G and Yap, M and King, Y and Zhou, D and Mamey, M and Shepherd-Evans, I and Sheikh, J and Lawson, H and Kew, T and Ansari, K and Attarde, S and Banjoko, A and Fraser, H and Littmoden, M and Rajah, T and Walker, K and O'Donoghue, K and van Wely, M and van Leeuwen, E and Kostova, E and Kunst, H and Khalil, A and Brizuela, V and Kara, E and Kim, CR and Thorson, A and Oladapo, OT and Mofenson, L and Bonet, M and Zamora, J and Allotey, J and Thangaratinam, S and , },
title = {Global maternal mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {10},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2024-015815},
pmid = {40258634},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality ; Female ; *Maternal Mortality ; Pregnancy ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/mortality ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Cause of Death ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pregnant and recently pregnant women infected with SARS-CoV-2 are at increased risk of death and serious complications than those without the infection. The extent of variation in mortality rates in pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection across regions, and the causes of death are not known. We systematically reviewed all available evidence on the variation in mortality rates in pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection across geographical and country income groups, and the reported cause of death.

METHODS: We searched major databases (December 2019-January 2023) including Medline, LILACS, BIREME and Embase. We included studies that reported deaths in at least 10 consecutive pregnant or recently pregnant women with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and assessed the studies' risk of bias. We calculated the summary estimates of any cause of death as proportions with 95% CIs using a multilevel random-effects logistic regression model. Subgroup analyses were performed by geographical region and country income groups. We used International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems-Maternal Mortality to categorise the reported cause of death.

FINDINGS: From 1 326 315 citations, we included 169 studies (319 172 women with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection; 4253 women died). The overall rate of unspecified maternal death was 0.87% (95% CI 0.64% to 1.16%). There were significant differences between geographical regions in rates of maternal mortality, with the highest rates in Sub-Saharan Africa (3.48%; 95% CI 0.66% to 16.42%) and Latin America and the Caribbean (3.16%, 95% CI 1.53% to 6.43%). Rates of maternal mortality varied by country income groups, with the highest rates in low-income countries (4.66%, 95% CI 0.75% to 24.07%). Among women with reported cause of death, 98.6% (2,390/2,423) of deaths were attributable to COVID-19.

INTERPRETATION: Rates of deaths in pregnant and recently pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection vary significantly across regions and by country income groups, with the highest burden in Sub-Saharan Africa and low-income countries. COVID-19 is the main reported cause of death.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42020224120.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality
Female
*Maternal Mortality
Pregnancy
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/mortality
*Global Health/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Cause of Death

@article {pmid40254504,
year = {2025},
author = {Aboelzahab, YH and McCracken, A and Abdoulrezzak, R and Naguib, S and McLean, M and Tricco, AC and Pinto, AD and McCarthy, LM and Dolovich, L},
title = {Virtual care in community pharmacy services: a scoping review.},
journal = {Research in social & administrative pharmacy : RSAP},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.sapharm.2025.03.066},
pmid = {40254504},
issn = {1934-8150},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The integration of virtual care has been essential for maintaining continuity of patient care during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Community pharmacists were among the healthcare professionals who used virtual care to provide remote pharmacy services. However, the use of virtual care in community pharmacy has not been comprehensively reviewed.

OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the types of virtual care platforms used in community pharmacy, their purposes, barriers, and facilitators, and to identify strategies for optimizing virtual care in this setting.

METHODS: The scoping review followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology for scoping reviews. A comprehensive search strategy was employed to identify studies across MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, and grey literature sources. Two levels of screening were performed, and data were extracted using a pre-specified form. The data were analyzed through qualitative content analysis, and the PRISMA-ScR was used to report the results.

RESULTS: A total of 3580 citations were assessed and 32 studies were included in the review. The qualitative data were summarized into five categories: (1) virtual care tools and technologies used in community pharmacy, (2) purpose of virtual care, (3) barriers to using virtual care, (4) facilitators of virtual care adoption, and (5) strategies to optimize virtual care use.

CONCLUSION: Virtual care in community pharmacy showed promise in enhancing pharmacy services. Despite operational barriers and inequities in access, facilitators such as adequate training and technological advancements supported its implementation. Future efforts should address these challenges and refine virtual care for broader and equitable integration.},
}

@article {pmid40254311,
year = {2025},
author = {Andersen-Waine, B and Keene, CM and Dickinson, S and Naidoo, R and Ferguson-Lewis, A and Polner, A and Amswych, M and White, L and Molyneux, S and Wanat, M and , },
title = {Influence of context on engagement with COVID-19 testing: a scoping review of barriers and facilitators to testing for healthcare workers, care homes and schools in the UK.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {e089062},
pmid = {40254311},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Testing ; *Schools ; *Nursing Homes ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The UK government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic included a 'test, trace and isolate' strategy. Testing services for healthcare workers, care homes and schools accounted for the greatest spend and volume of tests. We reviewed relevant literature to identify common and unique barriers and facilitators to engaging with each of these testing services.

DESIGN: Scoping review.

SEARCH STRATEGY: PubMed, Scopus and the WHO COVID-19 Research Database were searched for evidence published between 1 January 2020 and 7 November 2022. This was supplemented by evidence identified via free-text searches on Google Scholar and provided by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data were extracted by a team of reviewers and synthesised thematically under the broad headings of perceptions, experiences, barriers and facilitators to engaging with the COVID-19 testing programme.

RESULTS: This study included 40 sources, including 17 from projects that informed UKHSA's decisions during the pandemic. Eight themes emerged and were used to categorise barriers and facilitators to engaging with the testing services for healthcare workers, care homes and schools: (1) perceived value, (2) trust in the tests and public bodies, (3) importance of infrastructure, (4) impact of media and social networks, (5) physical burden of the test, (6) perceived capability to undertake testing, (7) importance of relevant information and 8) consequences of testing.

CONCLUSIONS: Universal barriers and facilitators to engagement with the testing programme related to the core elements of each testing service, such as uncomfortable specimen collection and the influence of media and peers; these could be mitigated or leveraged to increase engagement across settings. However, the individuals involved, perceptions of value and available resources differed across services, leading to unique experiences between settings. Thus, consideration of context is crucial when designing and implementing a testing programme in response to a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology
United Kingdom/epidemiology
*Health Personnel
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Testing
*Schools
*Nursing Homes

@article {pmid40254131,
year = {2025},
author = {Mayer, MG and Fischer, T},
title = {Shared Mechanisms of Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation in COVID-19 and Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {The American journal of pathology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.ajpath.2025.03.011},
pmid = {40254131},
issn = {1525-2191},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has highlighted the virus's impact on the central nervous system (CNS) and its potential to exacerbate neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD). Emerging evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection contributes to chronic neuroinflammation, a key driver in the etiopathogenesis of AD. Shared mechanisms, including blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and activation of immune pathways, may link SARS-CoV-2 infection to AD onset and/or progression, particularly among vulnerable individuals, such as those of advanced age. This review explores convergent pathways involving the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), Wnt/β-catenin signaling, NFκB activation, and interferon (IFN) signaling, focusing on their roles in BBB integrity and neuroinflammation. SARS-CoV-2-mediated ACE2 depletion disrupts RAAS homeostasis, favoring proinflammatory signaling that parallels vascular dysfunction in AD. Dysregulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling exacerbates BBB permeability, while NFκB and IFN pathways contribute to BBB breakdown and propagate CNS inflammation via endothelial and immune cell activation. These interactions may amplify prodromal AD pathology and/or initiate AD pathogenesis. By identifying mechanistic overlaps between COVID-19 and AD, this review underscores the need for therapeutic strategies targeting shared pathways of inflammation and BBB dysfunction. Understanding these connections is critical for mitigating the long-term neurological sequelae of COVID-19 and reducing the burden of AD.},
}

@article {pmid40250816,
year = {2025},
author = {Zheng, P and Li, G and Chen, Y and Li, S and Yang, S and Guo, D and Zhou, Q and Zhang, X},
title = {Mini review: SHEN26, a novel oral antiviral drug for COVID-19 treatment.},
journal = {Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {130243},
doi = {10.1016/j.bmcl.2025.130243},
pmid = {40250816},
issn = {1464-3405},
abstract = {Over two years into the pandemic, global collaboration led to effective antiviral drugs targeting SARS-CoV-2's RdRp and 3CL protease. However, the virus continues to evolve, and certain low-virulence variants still circulate. Despite reduced virulence, ongoing transmission raises the risk of new mutations, underscoring the need for continued vigilance, research, and expansion of our antiviral and vaccine strategies. Our research team has developed SHEN26, a promising small-molecule antiviral drug for the treatment of COVID-19. This mini-review explores its development, including history, synthesis, preclinical evaluations, and findings from Phase I and II clinical trials. Data from each research phase further underscores SHEN26's potential as a safe and effective oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19, while also emphasizing its broader relevance in combating emerging RNA viral infections.},
}

@article {pmid40249720,
year = {2025},
author = {van Ooij, PJ and van Hulst, RA},
title = {Respiratory fitness for occupational diving, what is new?.},
journal = {Undersea & hyperbaric medicine : journal of the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society, Inc},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {33-40},
pmid = {40249720},
issn = {1066-2936},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diving/adverse effects/physiology/standards ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; COVID-19 ; *Occupational Diseases/prevention & control/diagnosis ; Asthma/complications ; Spirometry ; Pulmonary Edema/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {Diving diseases originating from lung-related pathology are not the most prominent but are considered the most severe. To minimize this risk, a good respiratory tract assessment is important. Organizations like the British Thoracic Society (2003) and the European Diving Technology Committee (EDTC) (2004) have provided guidelines regarding this assessment. However, most of the guidelines are 20 years old. The EDTC has revised its guidelines based on the present literature and published it last year. This review discusses a few topics that have changed or are newly introduced in the new EDTC guidelines. Importantly, additional tests might be necessary when assessing the respiratory tract based on history taking and spirometry, leading to a case-by-case decision regarding the fitness to dive. Particular attention should be paid to individuals with large lungs or cysts, those who have undergone thoracic surgery, and those with a history of asthma, immersion pulmonary edema, COVID-19 infection, or sleep apnea.},
}

Humans
*Diving/adverse effects/physiology/standards
Practice Guidelines as Topic
COVID-19
*Occupational Diseases/prevention & control/diagnosis
Asthma/complications
Spirometry
Pulmonary Edema/diagnosis

@article {pmid40249463,
year = {2025},
author = {Papapetrou, I and Swiecicka, A},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence, presentation, and management of type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents: a narrative review.},
journal = {Hormones (Athens, Greece)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40249463},
issn = {2520-8721},
abstract = {Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune condition affecting approximately 1.5 million children and adolescents worldwide, with an incidence of approximately 2-3% each year and rising. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, a significant increase in incidence of T1D in children and adolescents was observed in numerous countries worldwide, with an increased number of newly-diagnosed cases presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis. The increased frequency of T1D presenting with diabetic ketoacidosis has been attributed not only to the SARS-CoV-2 virus itself but also to the restrictions imposed by the pandemic. The shift to telemedicine and unwillingness to seek medical care due to fear of infection contributed to delayed diagnosis and more severe disease presentation. Furthermore, the periods of lockdown that were implemented during the pandemic presented multiple challenges for children and adolescents living with T1D and disrupted the management of their condition. Changes in physical activity and diet as well as shortage of medical supplies during that period have been linked to worsening of glycemic control, which were at least partly offset by increased parental involvement and use of telemedicine.},
}

@article {pmid40248759,
year = {2025},
author = {Gomes Costa, RR and Ramos, BL and Ribeiro Neto, F and Winckler, C},
title = {Tele-exercise in individuals with spinal cord injury: a systematic review.},
journal = {mHealth},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {19},
pmid = {40248759},
issn = {2306-9740},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has seen the emergence of tele-exercise as a mean of remotely providing physical activity. This is particularly crucial given that individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI), often engage in lower levels of physical activity due to barriers such as transportation issues and financial limitations. Given the potential the tele-exercise for individuals with SCI, this study aims to characterize research on tele-exercise interventions in this population focusing on the approach (synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid), platform, intervention details, duration, adherence, outcomes, and improvements.

METHODS: A review was conducted using the Embase, Scopus, and PubMed databases, adhering to the PRISMA reporting checklist. Studies on "tele-exercise" and "teleexercise", without specifying SCI in the search terms were screened. Inclusion criteria were limited to English-language articles published up to April 2024. Articles in poster or editorial format and grey literature were excluded. The decision was made to exclude gray literature and focus solely on studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Two reviewers (B.L.R. and R.R.G.C.) independently screened the titles and abstracts of the initially retrieved articles, and then discussed them to ensure agreement.

RESULTS: The review identified twelve articles (seven studies with intervention, three studies as projects, one study as cross-sectional analysis and 1 study as theorical framework). Most studies (58.3%) employed synchronous tele-exercise interventions, with Zoom software being the most prevalent platform (41.7%). Interventions primarily focused on muscle strength (75.0%) and aerobic training (75.0%), with a median duration of 8.0 weeks. The mean (standard deviation) adherence was 67.3% (18.7), with variations observed between sex and approaches (synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid). The most commonly assessed outcomes included physical activity levels (58.3%), adherence (33.3%), pain (25.0%), and physical activity behavior (25.0%). Significant improvements were noted in health status, physical capacity, and tele-exercise implementation.

CONCLUSIONS: Tele-exercise interventions, predominantly utilizing synchronous methods and emphasizing muscle strength and aerobic training, are effective and feasible for individuals with SCI. These interventions contribute to improved health outcomes and increased exercise adherence, establishing them as a viable option for promoting physical activity among individuals with SCI. However, the results should be interpreted with caution as the quality of the studies was not considered in this review.},
}

@article {pmid40248758,
year = {2025},
author = {Lew, SQ and Sikka, N and Erickson, KF},
title = {Telehealth in the US for patients with end-stage kidney disease: its utilization and impact on social, economic and health outcomes.},
journal = {mHealth},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {22},
pmid = {40248758},
issn = {2306-9740},
abstract = {The use of telehealth in the United States accelerated in 2020 when a coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) related public health emergency (PHE) was declared. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued emergency waivers that relaxed restrictions imposed by regulations on geographic locations, originating and distant sites, audio-video-conferencing technology and re-imbursement. This review focuses on the history of telehealth usage for patients with end-stage kidney disease. Patients who receive home dialysis gained widespread access to telehealth in 2019, following passage of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, Sec 50302 by the US Congress. For the first time in telehealth application, the patient's home could be an originating site without geographic restrictions for telemedicine. These earlier regulations will continue even after the PHE expires. While they made telemedicine possible for many patients receiving home dialysis, in practice, the uptake of telemedicine in the home setting may have been sluggish following the 2018 law. Rules governing the frequency of telemedicine visits and other stipulations for home dialysis that were specified in the 2018 law were relaxed in the setting of the COVID-19 waivers, further facilitating the use of telemedicine for home dialysis care. Meanwhile, the in-center dialysis unit became an originating site for the first time during the COVID-19 PHE, with a corresponding sharp increase in the use of telemedicine for in-center hemodialysis care. The waivers enabling the use of telemedicine for patients who receive in-center hemodialysis and further facilitating the use of telemedicine in home dialysis, expire with the end of the COVID-19 PHE unless Congress passes new legislation. Comparisons among the periods before, during and after the PHE can illustrate telehealth's impact and some of its challenges. Most of the literature on telehealth represents observational data. Future studies on telehealth, including clinical trials, could provide information on outcomes and cost savings.},
}

@article {pmid40248364,
year = {2025},
author = {Yang, AX and Norbrun, C and Sorkhdini, P and Zhou, Y},
title = {Phospholipid scramblase 1: a frontline defense against viral infections.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {1573373},
pmid = {40248364},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Phospholipid Transfer Proteins/metabolism/genetics/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Virus Replication ; Interferons/metabolism ; Animals ; Antiviral Agents ; Signal Transduction ; Viruses/immunology ; },
abstract = {Phospholipid scramblase 1 (PLSCR1) is the most studied member of the phospholipid scramblase protein family. Its main function is to catalyze calcium (Ca[2+])-dependent, ATP-independent, bidirectional and non-specific translocation of phospholipids between inner and outer leaflets of plasma membrane. Additionally, PLSCR1 is identified as an interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) with antiviral activities, and its expression can be highly induced by all types of interferons in various viral infections. Indeed, numerous studies have reported the direct antiviral activities of PLSCR1 through interrupting the replication processes of a variety of viruses, including entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), nuclear localization of influenza A virus (IAV), and transactivation of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV1), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV). In addition to these direct antiviral activities, PLSCR1 also regulates endogenous immune components to defend against viruses in both nonimmune and immune cells. Such activities include potentiation of ISG transcription, activation of JAK/STAT pathway, upregulation of type 3 interferon receptor (IFN-λR1) and recruitment of Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). This review aims to summarize the current understanding of PLSCR1's multiple roles as a frontline defense against viral infections.},
}

Humans
*Phospholipid Transfer Proteins/metabolism/genetics/immunology
*Virus Diseases/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2
Virus Replication
Interferons/metabolism
Animals
Antiviral Agents
Signal Transduction
Viruses/immunology

@article {pmid38381595,
year = {2025},
author = {Tsampasian, V and Bäck, M and Bernardi, M and Cavarretta, E and Dębski, M and Gati, S and Hansen, D and Kränkel, N and Koskinas, KC and Niebauer, J and Spadafora, L and Frias Vargas, M and Biondi-Zoccai, G and Vassiliou, VS},
title = {Cardiovascular disease as part of Long COVID: a systematic review.},
journal = {European journal of preventive cardiology},
volume = {32},
number = {6},
pages = {485-498},
doi = {10.1093/eurjpc/zwae070},
pmid = {38381595},
issn = {2047-4881},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy/etiology/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; Risk Assessment ; Heart Disease Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {AIMS: Long COVID syndrome has had a major impact on million patients' lives worldwide. The cardiovascular system is an important aspect of this multifaceted disease that may manifest in many ways. We have hereby performed a narrative review in order to identify the extent of the cardiovascular manifestations of the Long COVID syndrome.

METHODS AND RESULTS: An in-depth systematic search of the literature has been conducted for this narrative review. The systematic search of PubMed and Cochrane databases yielded 3993 articles, of which 629 underwent full-text screening. A total of 78 studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis and data evaluation. The pathophysiology of the cardiovascular sequelae of Long COVID syndrome and the cardiac manifestations and complications of Long COVID syndrome are critically evaluated. In addition, potential cardiovascular risk factors are assessed, and preventive methods and treatment options are examined in this review.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review poignantly summarizes the evidence from the available literature regarding the cardiovascular manifestations of Long COVID syndrome and reviews potential mechanistic pathways, diagnostic approaches, preventive measures, and treatment options.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy/etiology/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
Risk Assessment
Heart Disease Risk Factors

@article {pmid40132732,
year = {2025},
author = {He, Y and Zheng, Q and Zhifang, Z and Xiaofeng, N and Shenggen, W and Xue, M and Zheng, C and Liu, Z},
title = {When COVID-19 meets diabetes: A bibliometric analysis.},
journal = {Diabetes research and clinical practice},
volume = {223},
number = {},
pages = {112118},
doi = {10.1016/j.diabres.2025.112118},
pmid = {40132732},
issn = {1872-8227},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Humans ; *Bibliometrics ; *Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors are concerned about the likelihood of developing further diseases. This study examines the global trends in scientific research on diabetes associated with COVID-19 from several perspectives. Bibliometric analyses are used to undertake a scientific review of the literature. The Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database was used to acquire bibliographic information on diabetes related to COVID-19 from Jan 2020 to Dec. 2023. The visual map was built via advanced CiteSpace 6.2.R6. 7,348 papers were found. Khunti Kamlesh and Rizzo-Manfredi are the most well-known high-yield authors in this area, and the top ten authors collaborate extensively. Most of these papers came from universities. Harvard Medical School has the most publications, followed by Wuhan University and Huazhong University of Science and Technology. China and the United States are the countries with the most publications. Angiotensin-converting enzymes, chronic disease, intensive care unit, viral infection, and gestational diabetes mellitus were scored 0-11, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Zhou et al.'s work on this topic, which appeared in the prominent medical journal The Lancet, was cited 1,366 times, highlighting its importance. "clinical characteristics," "diabetes mellitus," "metabolic syndrome," and "angiotensin-converting enzyme" were used as keywords for reference co-citation and clustering data identify. Over the last four years, related investigations have focused primarily on observing clinical aspects. This report is important for developing treatment strategies, directing future research, and guiding clinical practice.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Humans
*Bibliometrics
*Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40008658,
year = {2025},
author = {Segado Fernández, S and Jiménez Gómez, B and Jiménez Hidalgo, P and Lozano-Estevan, MDC and Herrera Peco, I},
title = {Disinformation about diet and nutrition on social networks: a review of the literature.},
journal = {Nutricion hospitalaria},
volume = {42},
number = {2},
pages = {366-375},
doi = {10.20960/nh.05533},
pmid = {40008658},
issn = {1699-5198},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diet ; *Social Networking ; Social Media ; *Disinformation ; COVID-19 ; Communication ; },
abstract = {Background: social networks have become indispensable for global communication, offering unparalleled access to information. However, the lack of content regulation has allowed health and nutrition misinformation to thrive, posing significant public health risks. Objectives: this study aimed to identify the social networks most frequently used for spreading nutrition-related misinformation and evaluate the primary topics, including diseases and dietary claims, featured in these messages. Methods: a systematic review of the literature was conducted, analyzing studies focused on nutrition-related misinformation across platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Data collection adhered to PRISMA guidelines, and findings were synthesized narratively to address the study objectives. Results: this study analyzed 28 documents focusing on nutrition-related misinformation on social networks. Instagram (50 %) and YouTube (39.28 %) were identified as the most prevalent platforms for spreading such content, followed by TikTok (5.13 %) and Twitter (10.72 %). Over 62 % of the reviewed studies addressed misinformation linked to miracle diets, often associated with orthorexia (14.28 %) and COVID-19 (14.28 %). These diets frequently included unverified claims of rapid health improvements. Notably, credible nutrition content was predominantly shared by healthcare professionals and academic organizations, highlighting their key role in fight against misinformation. Conclusions: misinformation about nutrition on social networks is a growing public health concern. Public health institutions must implement strategies to improve digital literacy and provide tools for assessing information credibility. Healthcare professionals should leverage social media to disseminate evidence-based knowledge, counteracting the influence of unreliable sources. Collaborative efforts are essential to ensure social networks serve as platforms for reliable health promotion and education.},
}

Humans
*Diet
*Social Networking
Social Media
*Disinformation
COVID-19
Communication

@article {pmid39763327,
year = {2025},
author = {Beretta, F and Sacconi, R and Querques, L and Prascina, F and Zucchiatti, I and Bandello, F and Querques, G},
title = {"Triple and Plan" (TriPla) regimen for long lasting new generation intravitreal anti-VEGF.},
journal = {European journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {35},
number = {3},
pages = {779-784},
doi = {10.1177/11206721241310262},
pmid = {39763327},
issn = {1724-6016},
mesh = {Humans ; Intravitreal Injections ; *Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/antagonists & inhibitors ; *Angiogenesis Inhibitors/administration & dosage ; Recombinant Fusion Proteins/administration & dosage ; Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor/administration & dosage ; *Wet Macular Degeneration/drug therapy ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) medications are the primary treatment for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). However, frequent administrations pose significant burdens on patients, healthcare providers, and systems. The treat-and-extend (T&E) regimen, which adjusts treatment intervals based on patient response, aims to reduce injection frequency while maintaining disease control. The "Triple and Plan" (TriPla) regimen, developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, further optimizes treatment by scheduling three consecutive injections, thus minimizing clinic visits while ensuring adequate treatment.Newer agents such as Faricimab, Aflibercept 8 mg, and Brolucizumab offer longer-lasting effects, potentially extending treatment intervals. Faricimab, targeting both Ang-2 and VEGF-A, requires fewer injections and visits under the TriPla regimen compared to traditional T&E. Aflibercept 8 mg, with its higher concentration, promises extended intervals up to 16 weeks, reducing the injection frequency. Brolucizumab, notable for its small size and effective tissue penetration, also offers prolonged therapeutic effects but requires careful monitoring due to potential adverse events.In the first two years of treatment, patients using the TriPla regimen with these new drugs would undergo a slightly higher number of injections but with fewer clinic visits compared to the T&E regimen. The TriPla approach optimizes scheduling and reduces the workload on specialists, potentially improving patient care and healthcare system efficiency. These advancements in treatment regimens and drug formulations present significant benefits in managing nAMD, balancing effective disease control with reduced healthcare burdens.},
}

Humans
Intravitreal Injections
*Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A/antagonists & inhibitors
*Angiogenesis Inhibitors/administration & dosage
Recombinant Fusion Proteins/administration & dosage
Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor/administration & dosage
*Wet Macular Degeneration/drug therapy
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40248034,
year = {2025},
author = {Lang, L and Ma, M and Zhao, H and Zhang, J and Liu, S and Liu, H},
title = {Global research trends in obesity-related asthma (2004-2023): a bibliometric analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1528366},
pmid = {40248034},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: In recent years, an increasing body of evidence has revealed a complex interplay between obesity and asthma, prompting academic and medical communities to intensify their focus on this area of research. The objective of this study is to undertake a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the research literature pertaining to obesity-related asthma from 2004 to 2023. This analysis aims to provide precise and valuable insights, as well as to systematically reflect upon the current status and emerging trends within the field.

METHODS: Literature data on obesity and asthma research was sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were utilized to visually analyze bibliometric indicators such as co-authorship, citation networks, and publication frequency of the data to facilitate the identification of patterns and trends.

RESULTS: A total of 3,118 papers were included in the analysis, encompassing 2,539 articles and 579 reviews. Throughout the last 20 years, the volume of publications has shown a consistent upward trend. The United States and Harvard University are at the forefront of this research field. Professor Dixon Anne E. is recognized as a pioneer and leading figure in the cultivation of obesity-related asthma research. Keyword analysis identified topics such as "childhood asthma," "bariatric surgery," "physical activity," "gut microbiota," "COVID-19," "food allergy," "asthma control," "nutrition examination," and "severe asthma."

CONCLUSION: The research domain of obesity-related asthma has experienced a substantial growth, with the United States, the United Kingdom, and China leading the global landscape. The focus on asthma in obese adolescents and children, the role of bariatric surgery, and lifestyle interventions remains a consistent area of interest, with considerable potential for further study. These findings provide a scientific basis for the development of personalized treatment programs for obese asthma patients. In addition, this study highlights the importance of further research in the fields of gut microbiota, COVID-19, and food allergy, providing directions for future policymaking.},
}

@article {pmid40246793,
year = {2025},
author = {Salvatori, P and Amoushahi, A and Venuti, A and Paolini, F},
title = {Ethanol Inhalation for Respiratory Infections due to Enveloped Viruses.},
journal = {Infectious diseases and therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40246793},
issn = {2193-8229},
support = {21/18/R/53//Agenzia Nazionale per le Nuove Tecnologie, l'Energia e lo Sviluppo Economico Sostenibile/ ; },
abstract = {Ethanol has demonstrated high efficacy in inactivating enveloped viruses in vitro and in vivo (in animal and human studies). The inhalation route has been a significant method of drug administration for respiratory disorders since ancient times. Infections with enveloped viruses cause many respiratory diseases. This concise review explores the general structural characteristics of enveloped viruses and examines the potential role of inhaled ethanol as a low-cost therapy for respiratory diseases. Current literature data suggest that ethanol inhalation could be beneficial in treating respiratory infections caused by enveloped viruses. However, there is a clear gap in well-designed clinical trials assessing the safety and efficacy of ethanol inhalation in treating respiratory infections from enveloped viruses. This low-cost therapy could become an important therapeutic option, especially for large numbers of patients simultaneously infected, as was the case during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition, inhaled ethanol could be a successful approach for vulnerable patients such as patients with cancer because it is likely to have no or minimal effects on already established life-saving treatments. Further investigation by national and international institutions is urgently needed to validate these findings and refine treatment protocols.},
}

@article {pmid40246352,
year = {2025},
author = {Lundstrom, K},
title = {Immunobiology and immunotherapy of COVID-19.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {73-133},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.12.002},
pmid = {40246352},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/therapy ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in late 2019 triggered a major increase in activities related to immunobiology and immunotherapy to cope with and find solutions to end the COVID-19 pandemic. The unprecedented approach to research and development of drugs and vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 has substantially improved the understanding of immunobiology for COVID-19, which can also be applied to other infectious diseases. Major efforts were dedicated to the repurposing of existing antiviral drugs and the development of novel ones. For this reason, numerous approaches to evaluating interferons, immunoglobulins, and cytokine inhibitors have been conducted. Antibody-based therapies, especially employing monoclonal antibodies have also been on the agenda. Cell-based therapies involving dendritic cells, macrophages, and CAR T-cell approaches have been evaluated. Many existing antiviral drugs have been repurposed for COVID-19 and novel formulations have been tested. The extraordinarily rapid development of efficient vaccines led to the breakthrough of novel vaccine approaches such as mRNA-based vaccines saving millions of lives. Waning immunity of existing vaccines and emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants have required additional booster vaccinations and re-engineering of new versions of COVID-19 vaccines.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/therapy
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immunotherapy/methods
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Pandemics/prevention & control
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/therapy
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40246351,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubio-Casillas, A and Redwan, EM and Uversky, VN},
title = {More antibodies are not always better: Fc effector functions play a critical role in SARS-CoV-2 infection and protection.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {413-447},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.02.001},
pmid = {40246351},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; *Immunoglobulin Fc Fragments/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Traditional vaccinology has primarily focused on neutralizing antibody titers as the main correlate of vaccine efficacy, often overlooking the multifaceted roles of antibody Fc effector functions in orchestrating protective immune responses. Fc-mediated immune responses play a pivotal role in immune modulation and pathogen clearance. Emerging evidence from natural infections and vaccine studies highlights the critical contribution of Fc effector functions in determining the quality and durability of immunity. This work explores the limitations of current vaccine evaluation paradigms that prioritize neutralization over Fc effector mechanisms. It also describes findings from a study showing an unexpected role for SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike antibodies: both convalescent plasma and patient-derived monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) lead to maximum phagocytic capacity by monocytes at low concentrations, whereas at higher concentrations the phagocytic capacity was reduced. Given that the severity of COVID-19 disease and antibody titers are strongly positively correlated, this work challenges the paradigm that high antibodies offer better protection against severe disease. It is proposed that humoral and cellular responses elicited by vaccination should never be higher than those produced by natural infection. By integrating antibody Fc effector functions into vaccine development, a paradigm shift is proposed that emphasizes synergic antibody responses. Such an approach could transform vaccine efficacy assessment, enhance protection against dangerous pathogens, and drive innovation in vaccine design.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
*Immunoglobulin Fc Fragments/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid40246350,
year = {2025},
author = {Rubio-Casillas, A and Rodríguez-Quintero, CM and Hromić-Jahjefendić, A and Uversky, VN and Redwan, EM and Brogna, C},
title = {The essential role of prebiotics in restoring gut health in long COVID.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {385-411},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.01.004},
pmid = {40246350},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Prebiotics/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/microbiology/immunology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Probiotics ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The gut microbiota (GM) plays an essential role in human health, influencing not only digestive processes but also the immune system´s functionality. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the complex interaction between viral infections and the GM. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 can disrupt microbial homeostasis, leading to dysbiosis and compromised immune responses. The severity of COVID-19 has been associated with a reduction in the abundance of several beneficial bacteria in the gut. It has been proposed that consuming probiotics may help to re-colonize the GM. Although probiotics are important, prebiotics are essential for their metabolism, growth, and re-colonization capabilities. This chapter delves into the critical role of prebiotics in restoring GM after COVID-19 disease. The mechanisms by which prebiotics enhance the metabolism of beneficial bacteria will be described, and how prebiotics mediate the re-colonization of the gut with beneficial bacteria, thereby restoring microbial diversity and promoting the resilience of the gut-associated immune system. The benefits of consuming prebiotics from natural sources are superior to those from chemically purified commercial products.},
}

Humans
*Prebiotics/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/microbiology/immunology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2
Dysbiosis/microbiology
Probiotics
Pandemics

@article {pmid40246349,
year = {2025},
author = {Šutković, J},
title = {Neutrophils and COVID-19.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {347-384},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.02.003},
pmid = {40246349},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology/pathology ; *Neutrophils/immunology ; Extracellular Traps/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Cytokines/antagonists & inhibitors ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Animals ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology ; },
abstract = {Neutrophils are the first line of defense against pathogens, most effectively by forming Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs). Neutrophiles are further classified into several subpopulations during their development, eliminating pathogens through various mechanisms. However, due to the chaotic and uncontrolled immune response, NETs are often severely resulting in tissue damage and lung infections. The uncontrolled and poorly acknowledged host response regarding the cytokine storm is one of the major causes of severe COVID-19 conditions. Specifically, the increased formation of low-density neutrophils (LDNs), together with neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is closely linked with the severity and poor prognosis in patients with COVID-19. In this review, we discuss in detail the ontogeny of neutrophils at different stages and their recruitment and activation after infections, focusing on SARS-CoV-2. In addition, this chapter summarized the research progress on potential targeted drugs (NETs and Cytokine inhibitors) for neutrophil medical therapy and hoped to provide reference for the development of related therapeutic drugs for critically ill COVID-19 patients.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology/pathology
*Neutrophils/immunology
Extracellular Traps/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Cytokines/antagonists & inhibitors
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Animals
Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology

@article {pmid40246348,
year = {2025},
author = {Hromić-Jahjefendić, A and Sezer, A and Mahmuljin, I},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on autoimmune diseases.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {315-345},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.01.007},
pmid = {40246348},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/etiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects ; Autoimmunity ; Autoantibodies/immunology ; Extracellular Traps/immunology ; },
abstract = {Various autoantibodies, such as antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-Ro/SSA, rheumatoid factor, lupus anticoagulant, and antibodies against interferon type I (IFN-I), have been frequently detected in COVID-19 patients, indicating a significant prevalence of autoimmune reactions following viral exposure. Additionally, the identification of human proteins with structural similarities to SARS-CoV-2 peptides as potential autoantigens underscores the complex interplay between the virus and the immune system in triggering autoimmunity. The chapter discusses probable pathways contributing to COVID-19-related autoimmunity, including bystander activation due to hyperinflammatory states, viral persistence, and the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. These mechanisms illuminate a spectrum of autoimmune-related symptoms that can manifest, ranging from organ-specific to systemic autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Importantly, there is emerging evidence of de novo autoimmunity arising after COVID-19 infection or vaccination, where new autoimmune conditions develop in previously healthy individuals. While various COVID-19 vaccines have received emergency use authorization, concerns regarding potential autoimmune side effects persist. Ongoing research is crucial to clarify these relationships and enhance our understanding of the risks associated with COVID-19 infections and vaccinations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/etiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects
Autoimmunity
Autoantibodies/immunology
Extracellular Traps/immunology

@article {pmid40246347,
year = {2025},
author = {Hromić-Jahjefendić, A and Aljabali, AAA},
title = {Analysis of the immune response in COVID-19.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {31-71},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.10.004},
pmid = {40246347},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immunity, Innate ; Pandemics ; Toll-Like Receptors/immunology/metabolism ; Receptors, Pattern Recognition ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, instigated by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, has emerged as a significant global health challenge, demanding a profound grasp of the immune response. The innate immune system, a multifaceted network encompassing pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and effector cells, assumes a pivotal function in detecting and countering this viral assailant. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), situated on immune cell surfaces and within endosomes, play a central role in recognizing SARS-CoV-2. TLR-2 and TLR-4 discern specific viral constituents, such as the spike (S) protein, setting off inflammatory signaling cascades and catalyzing the generation of type I interferons. Intracellular PRRs, including the RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs), RIG-I and MDA5, detect viral RNA within the cytoplasm of infected cells, provoking antiviral responses by initiating the synthesis of type I interferons. The equilibrium between interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines dictates the outcomes of the disease. Interferons play an indispensable role in governing viral replication, while unregulated cytokine production can result in tissue harm and inflammation. This intricate dynamic underpins therapeutic strategies aimed at regulating immune responses in individuals grappling with COVID-19. Natural killer (NK) cells, with their capacity to recognize infected cells through the "missing self" phenomenon and activating receptors, make significant contributions to the defense against SARS-CoV-2. NK cells play a pivotal role in eliminating infected cells and boosting immune responses through antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). In conclusion, comprehending the interplay among PRRs, interferons, and NK cells within innate immunity is paramount for discerning and combatting SARS-CoV-2. This comprehension illuminates therapeutic interventions and vaccine development, casting light on our endeavors to confront this worldwide health crisis.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immunity, Innate
Pandemics
Toll-Like Receptors/immunology/metabolism
Receptors, Pattern Recognition

@article {pmid40246346,
year = {2025},
author = {Adilović, M},
title = {COVID-19 related complications.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {259-314},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.02.002},
pmid = {40246346},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Pregnancy ; Pandemics ; Female ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted global healthcare systems, revealed vulnerabilities and prompted a re-evaluation of medical practices. Acute complications from the virus, including cardiovascular and neurological issues, have underscored the necessity for timely medical interventions. Advances in diagnostic methods and personalized therapies have been pivotal in mitigating severe outcomes. Additionally, Long COVID has emerged as a complex challenge, affecting various body systems and leading to respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, psychological, and musculoskeletal problems. This broad spectrum of complications highlights the importance of multidisciplinary management approaches that prioritize therapy, rehabilitation, and patient-centered care. Vulnerable populations such as paediatric patients, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals face unique risks and complications, necessitating continuous monitoring and tailored management strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*SARS-CoV-2
Pregnancy
Pandemics
Female

@article {pmid40246345,
year = {2025},
author = {Ashmawy, R and Hamouda, EA and Zeina, S and Sharaf, S and Erfan, S and Redwan, EM},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on preexisting comorbidities.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {215-258},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.10.002},
pmid = {40246345},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Comorbidity ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology ; Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Risk Factors ; United States/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, leading to a tragic global pandemic, where it was ranked in 2020 as the third leading cause of death in the USA, causing approximately 375,000 deaths, following heart disease and cancer. The CDC reports that the risk of death increases with age and preexisting comorbidities such as such as hypertension, diabetes, respiratory system disease, and cardiovascular disease. this report will delineate and analyze the paramount comorbidities and their repercussions on individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Comorbidity
SARS-CoV-2
Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology
Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology
Pandemics
Risk Factors
United States/epidemiology

@article {pmid40246344,
year = {2025},
author = {Aljabali, AAA and El-Tanani, M and Barh, D and Tambuwala, MM},
title = {COVID-19: Perspectives on innate immune evasion.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {171-214},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.03.002},
pmid = {40246344},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/immunology ; *Immunity, Innate ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immune Evasion/immunology ; Pandemics ; Toll-Like Receptors/immunology/metabolism ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/virology ; *Betacoronavirus/immunology ; Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology/metabolism ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The ongoing global health challenges posed by the SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, necessitate a deep understanding of its intricate strategies to evade the innate immune system. This chapter aims to provide insights into the sophisticated mechanisms employed by SARS-CoV-2 in its interaction with pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), with particular emphasis on Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs). By skillfully circumventing these pivotal components, the virus manages to elude detection and impairs the initiation of crucial antiviral immune responses. A notable aspect of SARS-CoV-2's immune evasion tactics lies in its strategic manipulation of cytokine production. This orchestrated modulation disrupts the delicate balance of inflammation, potentially leading to severe complications, including the notorious cytokine storm. In this regard, key viral proteins, such as the spike protein and nucleocapsid protein, emerge as pivotal players in the immune evasion process, further highlighting their significance in the context of COVID-19 pathogenesis. Acquiring a comprehensive understanding of these intricate immune evasion mechanisms holds immense promise for the development of effective treatments against COVID-19. Moreover, it is imperative for vaccine development to consider these evasion strategies to maximize vaccine efficacy. Future therapeutic interventions may involve targeting alternative pathways or augmenting the antiviral immune responses, thereby mitigating the impact of immune evasion, and fostering successful outcomes. By unraveling the underlying mechanisms of innate immune evasion, we advance our comprehension of COVID-19 pathogenesis and pave the way for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. This comprehensive understanding catalyzes progress, enabling researchers and clinicians to devise novel approaches that combat the challenges posed by SARS-CoV-2 and ultimately improve patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/immunology
*Immunity, Innate
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immune Evasion/immunology
Pandemics
Toll-Like Receptors/immunology/metabolism
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/virology
*Betacoronavirus/immunology
Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology/metabolism
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid40246343,
year = {2025},
author = {Aljabali, AAA and Obeid, M and Gammoh, O and El-Tanani, M and Tambuwala, MM},
title = {Guardians at the gate: Unraveling Type I interferon's role and challenges posed by anti-interferon antibodies in COVID-19.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {135-169},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.01.005},
pmid = {40246343},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Interferon Type I/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/diagnosis ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Antibodies/immunology ; Signal Transduction ; },
abstract = {The intricate interplay involving Type I interferon (IFN), anti-interferon antibodies, and COVID-19 elucidates a complex symphony within the immune system. This chapter thoroughly explores the dynamic landscape of Type I IFN, delineating its pivotal role as the guardian of the immune response. As SARS-CoV-2 engages the host, the delicate balance of IFN induction and signaling pathways is disrupted, resulting in a nuanced impact on the severity and pathogenesis of COVID-19. Clinical studies illuminate a critical link between impaired IFN response and severe outcomes, uncovering genetic factors contributing to susceptibility. Furthermore, the emergence of anti-interferon antibodies proves to be a disruptive force, compromising the immune arsenal and correlating with disease severity. Our chapter encompasses diagnostic and prognostic implications, highlighting the importance of assays in identifying levels of IFN and anti-interferon antibodies. This chapter examines the possible incorporation of interferon-related biomarkers in COVID-19 diagnostics, offering predictive insights into disease progression. On the therapeutic front, efforts to manipulate the IFN pathway undergo scrutiny, encountering complexities in light of anti-interferon antibodies. This chapter concludes by outlining prospective avenues for precision medicine, emphasizing the imperative need for a comprehensive comprehension of the IFN landscape and its intricate interaction with COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Interferon Type I/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/diagnosis
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Antibodies/immunology
Signal Transduction

@article {pmid40246342,
year = {2025},
author = {Eltayeb, A and Redwan, EM},
title = {T-cell immunobiology and cytokine storm of COVID-19.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {213},
number = {},
pages = {1-30},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.10.003},
pmid = {40246342},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; *Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology ; Pandemics ; Cytokines/immunology/metabolism ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/therapy ; *Betacoronavirus/immunology ; },
abstract = {The 2019 coronavirus illness (COVID 2019) first manifests as a newly identified pneumonia and may quickly escalate to acute respiratory distress syndrome, which has caused a global pandemic. Except for individualized supportive care, no curative therapy has been steadfastly advised for COVID-19 up until this point. T cells and virus-specific T lymphocytes are required to guard against viral infection, particularly COVID-19. Delayed immunological reconstitution (IR) and cytokine storm (CS) continue to be significant barriers to COVID-19 cure. While severe COVID-19 patients who survived the disease had considerable lymphopenia and increased neutrophils, especially in the elderly, their T cell numbers gradually recovered. Exhausted T lymphocytes and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including IL6, IL10, IL2, and IL17, are observed in peripheral blood and the lungs. It implies that while convalescent plasma, IL-6 blocking, mesenchymal stem cells, and corticosteroids might decrease CS, Thymosin α1 and adaptive COVID-19-specific T cells could enhance IR. There is an urgent need for more clinical research in this area throughout the world to open the door to COVID-19 treatment in the future.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
*T-Lymphocytes/immunology
*Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology
Pandemics
Cytokines/immunology/metabolism
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/therapy
*Betacoronavirus/immunology

@article {pmid40245664,
year = {2025},
author = {Kalagy, T and Braun-Lewensohn, O and Abu-Kaf, S},
title = {Psychological distress among Israelis during crisis: A comparison between COVID-19 and the Iron Swords War.},
journal = {Psychiatry research},
volume = {348},
number = {},
pages = {116491},
doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2025.116491},
pmid = {40245664},
issn = {1872-7123},
abstract = {This study aimed to compare stress reactions and coping resources among the Jewish population in Israel during two different crises: the COVID-19 pandemic and the current Iron Swords War. The study included 421 respondents during the COVID-19 period and 604 respondents during the Iron Swords War. Participants completed self-report questionnaires designed to evaluate sense of coherence, hope, and Community resilience as indicators of coping resources and the Brief Symptom Inventory as a measure of psychological distress. Overall, the mental state of the entire population was more severe during the Iron Swords War than it was during the COVID-19 period (p0.001> (. Sense of coherence and hope were both strongly negatively correlated with psychological distress (p<.001). Moreover, hope, sense of coherence, gender, and age were significant predictors of psychological distress (p< .01). These findings indicate the importance of personal coping resources, such as sense of coherence, during times of crisis. This is particularly important for vulnerable groups. Policymakers should prioritize mental-health services and targeted interventions in emergency response plans.},
}

@article {pmid40245580,
year = {2025},
author = {Nakajima, M and Yamazaki, H and Yoshinari, K and Kobayashi, K and Ishii, Y and Nakai, D and Kamimura, H and Kume, T and Saito, Y and Maeda, K and Kusuhara, H and Tamai, I},
title = {Contribution of Japanese scientists to drug metabolism and disposition.},
journal = {Drug metabolism and disposition: the biological fate of chemicals},
volume = {53},
number = {5},
pages = {100071},
doi = {10.1016/j.dmd.2025.100071},
pmid = {40245580},
issn = {1521-009X},
abstract = {Japanese researchers have played a pivotal role in advancing the field of drug metabolism and disposition, as demonstrated by their substantial contributions to the journal Drug Metabolism and Disposition (DMD) over the past 5 decades. This review highlights the historical and ongoing impact of Japanese scientists on DMD, celebrating their achievements in elucidating drug metabolism, membrane transport, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology. From the discovery of cytochrome P450 by Tsuneo Omura and Ryo Sato in 1962 to subsequent advances in drug transport research, Japan has maintained a leading position in the field. A geographical analysis of DMD publications reveals a notable increase in contributions from Japan during the 1980s, ranking second globally and maintaining this position through the 2000s. However, recent years have seen a slight decline in output, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic and increased online journals as well as structural changes within academia and industry. Importantly, this trend is not unique to Japan. To sustain excellence and innovation in this field, it is crucial to strengthen funding for absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity research and promote collaborations between academia, industry, and regulatory agencies. By prioritizing the translation of fundamental discoveries into drug development and clinical applications, scientists in this area can further advance global efforts toward achieving optimal drug efficacy and safety. This review underscores the enduring contributions of Japanese researchers to DMD and calls for renewed efforts to drive innovation and progress in this vital area of science. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Over the past 5 decades, Japanese scientists have made significant contributions to Drug Metabolism and Disposition through groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the study of drug-metabolizing enzymes, transporters, pharmacokinetics analysis, and related areas. These contributions continue to shape the field, offering a foundation for future innovation in this area. We hope that the next generation of Japanese scientists will further solidify their global leadership in this area to advance drug development and proper pharmacotherapy.},
}

@article {pmid40244526,
year = {2025},
author = {Taha, MS and Akram, A and Abdelbary, GA},
title = {Unlocking the potential of remdesivir: innovative approaches to drug delivery.},
journal = {Drug delivery and translational research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {40244526},
issn = {2190-3948},
abstract = {Given the recurrent waves of COVID-19 and the emergence of new viral infections, optimizing the potential of remdesivir as an antiviral agent is critical. While several reviews have explored the efficacy of remdesivir, few have comprehensively addressed its challenges, such as the necessity for intravenous infusion, suboptimal lung accumulation, and safety concerns related to its formulation. This review critically examines these challenges while proposing innovative solutions and effective combinations with other antiviral agents and repurposed drugs. By highlighting the role of complex generics, we aim to enhance therapeutic efficacy in ways not previously discussed in existing literature. Furthermore, we address the development of novel drug delivery systems which specifically aim to improve remdesivir's pharmacological profile. By analyzing recent findings, we assess both the successes and limitations of current approaches, providing insights into ongoing challenges and strategies for further optimization. This review uniquely focuses on targeted drug delivery systems and innovative formulations, thereby maximizing remdesivir's therapeutic benefits and broadening its application in combating emerging viral threats. In doing so, we fill a critical gap in literature, offering a comprehensive overview that informs future research and clinical strategies.},
}

@article {pmid40244315,
year = {2025},
author = {Aderinto, N and Olatunji, G and Kokori, E and Ogieuhi, IJ and Yusuf, IA and Egbunu, E and Ukoaka, BM and Babalola, AE and Adefusi, TO and Aboje, JE and Moradeyo, A},
title = {COVID-19 and cognitive impairment: a review of the emerging evidence.},
journal = {Discover mental health},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {56},
pmid = {40244315},
issn = {2731-4383},
abstract = {The recent surge of COVID-19 cases has raised concerns about its potential long-term effects on cognitive function. This review explores the growing body of research investigating the link between COVID-19 infection and cognitive impairment. Studies employing observational, longitudinal, and case-control designs reveal a concerning prevalence of cognitive impairment in survivors, affecting domains like attention, memory, executive function, and processing speed. The persistence of these deficits for months after the initial infection highlights the potential for long-term consequences. While the precise mechanisms remain under investigation, potential contributing factors include neuroinflammation, hypoxia, and psychological effects. Limitations within the current research landscape necessitate further investigation into the long-term trajectory of cognitive decline, the potential for intervention and recovery, and the role of vaccination in mitigating these effects. Understanding the multifaceted nature of this issue is crucial for developing effective strategies to ensure optimal cognitive health outcomes for COVID-19 survivors.},
}

@article {pmid40244031,
year = {2025},
author = {Alves, MI and Dias Junior, SA and Martins, T and Felipe, AOB and Freitas, PS and Moreira, DDS},
title = {The Relationship Between Excessive Screen Time, Self-Harm, and Suicidal Behavior in Adolescents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Literature Review.},
journal = {Journal of child and adolescent psychiatric nursing : official publication of the Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nurses, Inc},
volume = {38},
number = {2},
pages = {e70015},
doi = {10.1111/jcap.70015},
pmid = {40244031},
issn = {1744-6171},
support = {//This study was financed in part by the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - Brasil (CAPES) - Finance Code 001./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Self-Injurious Behavior/epidemiology/psychology ; Adolescent ; *Screen Time ; *Adolescent Behavior/psychology ; *Suicidal Ideation ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Adolescents are being increasingly exposed to digital media, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This reality raises concerns over the effects of this exposure, in addition to an increase in suicidal behavior and self-harm.

AIM/QUESTION: This study aims to analyze the relationship between excessive screen time, self-harm, and suicidal behavior in adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: This is an integrative literature review. The research question was structured using the PICOT strategy (P-adolescents; I-intensive screen and internet time; O-suicidal behavior and self-harm; and T-pandemic timeframe). The databases included were: Embase, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus, Cinahl, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Initially, 1645 studies were found; after reviewing their titles and abstracts, 18 studies met the eligibility criteria.

FINDINGS: The results revealed concerning associations between prolonged exposure and behaviors such as self-harm and suicidal behavior.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: These findings can assist nurses in identifying young individuals at risk due to inappropriate technology use, enabling the development of tailored interventions, the implementation of educational programs for healthy digital habits, and the promotion of mental well-being.

RECOMMENDATION: In light of the above, measures to mitigate this problem and the risks stemming from prolonged exposure are needed, considering that the adverse effects go beyond the pandemic context.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
*Self-Injurious Behavior/epidemiology/psychology
Adolescent
*Screen Time
*Adolescent Behavior/psychology
*Suicidal Ideation

@article {pmid40243795,
year = {2025},
author = {Neil, J},
title = {Emerging Viral Infections during Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks to Maternal and Fetal Health.},
journal = {Reproduction (Cambridge, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1530/REP-25-0043},
pmid = {40243795},
issn = {1741-7899},
abstract = {Viral infections during pregnancy pose significant risks to both maternal and fetal health. While several viruses are well known to cause adverse pregnancy outcomes, often little is known about emerging viruses. This review summaries the known maternal and fetal consequences of infection during pregnancy with novel and re-emerging viruses. Focus is placed on viruses such as Zika and SARS-CoV-2, among others, discussing the mechanisms by which these viruses may disrupt fetal development at the maternal-fetal interface. The review also addresses the challenges that need to be overcome, such as the need for ongoing disease surveillance, prioritization of pregnant women for clinical trials and the importance of pre-clinical models of placenta infection, to adequately prepare for the next virus outbreak.},
}

@article {pmid40243788,
year = {2025},
author = {Melo, EP and Mendes, EFDS and Rodrigues, RCR and Nogueira, DL and Tabosa, TA and Castro, MC and Machado, MMT},
title = {Maternal care for preterm infants in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative systematic review.},
journal = {Cadernos de saude publica},
volume = {41},
number = {3},
pages = {e00134924},
doi = {10.1590/0102-311XEN134924},
pmid = {40243788},
issn = {1678-4464},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Infant, Newborn ; *Infant, Premature ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Mothers/psychology ; Qualitative Research ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Premature Birth ; Adaptation, Psychological ; },
abstract = {Preterm birth and hospitalization of the newborn are potentially traumatic events for mothers and children. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with its social impacts and additional concerns, has exacerbated maternal distress and anxiety, adversely impacting the development of premature babies. This study conducted a qualitative systematic review to understand maternal care for preterm infants during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA guidelines, the databases CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and the portals Virtual Health Library and CAPES Periodicals were consulted. From the 1,449 identified publications, 14 articles were included in the review, resulting in 172 primary findings. The findings were grouped using the meta-aggregative approach, with confidence assessed via the ConQual approach, resulting in four meta-aggregated findings: (1) the impact of the pandemic on health services for preterm infants; (2) the impact of the pandemic and prematurity on maternal mental health; (3) challenges to the maternal care of preterm infants imposed by COVID-19; and (4) maternal coping strategies during the pandemic. The review revealed that the pandemic and associated sanitary measures negatively impacted maternal proximity to hospitalized premature infants, reduced the support networks, worsened financial situations, and increased mothers' emotional burden. Public policies are recommended to provide support to mothers, offer resources to deal with adverse experiences, and promote parental skills in caring for preterm infants.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Infant, Newborn
*Infant, Premature
Female
Pregnancy
*Mothers/psychology
Qualitative Research
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Premature Birth
Adaptation, Psychological

@article {pmid40243757,
year = {2025},
author = {Meng, S and Hara, T and Miura, Y and Arao, Y and Saito, Y and Inoue, K and Hirotsu, T and Vecchione, A and Satoh, T and Ishii, H},
title = {In Vivo Engineered CAR-T Cell Therapy: Lessons Built from COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26073119},
pmid = {40243757},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {grant nos. 19K22658, 20H00541, 21K19526, 22H03146, 22K19559, 23K19505, 23K18313, 23KK0153, 24K22144, and 16H06279 (PAGS)//Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology/ ; grant nos. JP23ym0126809 and JP24ym0126809//Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development/ ; 23-255001//Princess Takamatsu Cancer Research Fund/ ; G-2024-3-00//IFO Research Communications/ ; 2024//Oceanic Wellness Foundation/ ; 2024//Suzuken Memorial Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; Lipids/chemistry ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T) therapy has revolutionized cancer immunotherapy but continues to face significant challenges that limit its broader application, such as antigen targeting, the tumor microenvironment, and cell persistence, especially in solid tumors. Meanwhile, the global implementation of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the transformative potential of mRNA and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technologies. These innovations, characterized by their swift development timelines, precise antigen design, and efficient delivery mechanisms, provide a promising framework to address some limitations of CAR-T therapy. Recent advancements, including mRNA-based CAR engineering and optimized LNP delivery, have demonstrated the capacity to enhance CAR-T efficacy, particularly in the context of solid tumors. This review explores how mRNA-LNP technology can drive the development of in vivo engineered CAR-T therapies to address current limitations and discusses future directions, including advancements in mRNA design, LNP optimization, and strategies for improving in vivo CAR-T functionality and safety. By bridging these technological insights, CAR-T therapy may evolve into a versatile and accessible treatment paradigm across diverse oncological landscapes.},
}

Humans
*Immunotherapy, Adoptive/methods
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology/genetics
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
Nanoparticles/chemistry
RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Animals
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
Lipids/chemistry
Liposomes

@article {pmid40243562,
year = {2025},
author = {Jellinger, KA},
title = {Concomitant Pathologies and Their Impact on Parkinson Disease: A Narrative Overview of Current Evidence.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms26072942},
pmid = {40243562},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {2025-02//Society for the Promotion of Research in Experimental Neurology, Vienna, Austria/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Parkinson Disease/pathology/epidemiology/complications/metabolism ; COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/pathology ; Comorbidity ; alpha-Synuclein/metabolism ; Neoplasms/epidemiology/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Many clinico-pathological studies point to the presence of multiple comorbidities/co-pathologies in the course of Parkinson disease (PD). Lewy body pathology, the morphological hallmark of PD, rarely exists in isolation, but is usually associated with other concomitant pathologies, in particular Alzheimer disease-related changes (ADNC), cerebrovascular pathologies (macro- and microinfarcts, cerebral small vessel disease, cerebral amyloid angiopathy), TDP-43 pathology as well as multiple pathological combinations. These include cardiovascular disorders, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, autoimmune and rheumatic diseases, myasthenia gravis, Sjögren's syndrome, restless leg syndrome or other rare disorders, like Fabry disease. A combination of PD and multiple sclerosis (MS) may be due to the immune function of LRRK2 and its interrelation with α-synuclein. COVID-19 and HIV posed considerable impacts on patients with PD. Epidemiological evidence points to a decreased risk for the majority of neoplasms, except melanoma and other skin cancers, while some tumors (breast, brain) are increased. On the other hand, a lower frequency of malignancies preceding early PD markers may argue for their protective effect on PD risk. Possible pathogenetic factors for the association between PD and cancer are discussed. The tremendous heterogeneity of concomitant pathologies and comorbidities observed across the PD spectrum is most likely caused by the complex interplay between genetic, pathogenic and other risk factors, and further research should provide increasing insight into their relationship with idiopathic PD (and other parkinsonian disorders) in order to find better diagnostic tools and probable disease-modifying therapies.},
}

Humans
*Parkinson Disease/pathology/epidemiology/complications/metabolism
COVID-19/epidemiology/complications/pathology
Comorbidity
alpha-Synuclein/metabolism
Neoplasms/epidemiology/pathology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40243121,
year = {2025},
author = {Wong, SK},
title = {Effects of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine on bone health (Review).},
journal = {Molecular medicine reports},
volume = {31},
number = {6},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3892/mmr.2025.13533},
pmid = {40243121},
issn = {1791-3004},
mesh = {*Hydroxychloroquine/pharmacology/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Humans ; *Chloroquine/pharmacology/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Bone and Bones/drug effects/metabolism ; Animals ; Osteoclasts/drug effects/metabolism ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Apoptosis/drug effects ; Autophagy/drug effects ; Osteoblasts/drug effects/metabolism ; Osteogenesis/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), which were initially used to treat malaria, are now also used to treat autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, which have gained notoriety during the coronavirus‑19 pandemic. The emerging uses of CQ and HCQ in cancer therapy, metabolic syndrome and bone disorders highlight their broad clinical potential. Patients with autoimmune and inflammatory conditions have a higher risk of suboptimal bone health because of chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation and medication use. In the present review, the use of CQ and HCQ in bone research was explored, particularly in terms of their effectiveness and mechanism in modulating bone homeostasis. CQ and HCQ inhibit osteoblastic activity by suppressing autophagy, inducing oxidative stress and promoting osteoblast apoptosis. CQ suppresses osteoclastic activity by blocking the receptor activator of nuclear factor κ‑β/receptor activator of nuclear factor κ‑β ligand interaction, autophagy and inflammation. HCQ inhibits osteoclastogenesis by increasing the expression levels of osteoprotegerin, inducing osteoclast apoptosis and reducing cytokines without affecting autophagy. With regard to the molecular machineries, CQ and HCQ inhibit bone formation and bone resorption. Variations in dose, frequency and duration of CQ and HCQ treatment result in heterogenous outcomes. Further research is necessary to clarify the net effects of CQ and HCQ on bone through studies specifically designed to explore their direct impact as the primary objective. The use of these medications is broadening particularly in patients with autoimmune diseases who are at risk of skeletal disorders. However, their safety profiles, adverse effects and contraindications must be carefully monitored when administered for long‑term use and in combination.},
}

*Hydroxychloroquine/pharmacology/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Humans
*Chloroquine/pharmacology/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Bone and Bones/drug effects/metabolism
Animals
Osteoclasts/drug effects/metabolism
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Apoptosis/drug effects
Autophagy/drug effects
Osteoblasts/drug effects/metabolism
Osteogenesis/drug effects

@article {pmid40242974,
year = {2025},
author = {Nouari, W and Aribi, M},
title = {Innate lymphoid cells, immune functional dynamics, epithelial parallels, and therapeutic frontiers in infections.},
journal = {International reviews of immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-28},
doi = {10.1080/08830185.2025.2490233},
pmid = {40242974},
issn = {1563-5244},
abstract = {Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have emerged as pivotal players in the field of immunology, expanding our understanding of innate immunity beyond conventional paradigms. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted world of ILCs, beginning with their serendipitous discovery and traversing their ontogeny and heterogeneity. We explore the distinct subsets of ILCs unraveling their intriguing plasticity, which adds a layer of complexity to their functional repertoire. As we journey through the functional activities of ILCs, we address their role in immune responses against various infections, categorizing their interactions with helminthic parasites, bacterial pathogens, fungal infections, and viral invaders. Notably, this review offers a detailed examination of ILCs in the context of specific infections, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Citrobacter rodentium, Clostridium difficile, Salmonella typhimurium, Helicobacter pylori, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Influenza virus, Cytomegalovirus, Herpes simplex virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. This selection aimed for a comprehensive exploration of ILCs in various infectious contexts, opting for microorganisms based on extensive research findings rather than considerations of virulence or emergence. Furthermore, we raise intriguing questions about the potential immune functional resemblances between ILCs and epithelial cells, shedding light on their interconnectedness within the mucosal microenvironment. The review culminates in a critical assessment of the therapeutic prospects of targeting ILCs during infection, emphasizing their promise as novel immunotherapeutic targets. Nevertheless, due to their recent discovery and evolving understanding, effectively manipulating ILCs is challenging. Ensuring specificity and safety while evaluating long-term effects in clinical settings will be crucial.},
}

@article {pmid40242829,
year = {2025},
author = {Jung, Y and Baldeo, S and Pahuta, M and Sharma, S and Guha, D},
title = {The legal and socioeconomic considerations of spine telemedicine in Canada.},
journal = {Journal of spine surgery (Hong Kong)},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {166-177},
pmid = {40242829},
issn = {2414-469X},
abstract = {Telemedicine, or virtual care offers a platform for remote assessments, for either initial consultations or follow-up care. Telemedicine is a broad term and may refer to video conferences/assessments, telephone visits, messages through online platforms, and remote monitoring applications. The restrictions during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis had accelerated the use of telemedicine in Canadian healthcare. Several years after the pandemic, after this initial trial of widespread telemedicine, there remains significant uncertainty as to its efficacy and future directions. There are inherent challenges to telemedicine, including questions of clinical reliability and privacy, balanced against the possibility of efficiency and increased access to specialists. The Canadian healthcare system also poses significant challenges in the evaluation and systemic implementation of telemedicine, given the lack of a national legal framework and separate provincial or territorial regulation systems across the country. Telemedicine is of a particular interest to spinal surgeons, given the prevalence, morbidity, and economic costs associated with spinal pathologies. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, few spine surgeons offered telemedicine, due to the perceived challenges of remote assessment and diagnosis with spine pathologies. There has been little subsequent data to examine the role and suitability for remote acre in spine surgery. Herein, we review the current landscape of telemedicine in Canadian healthcare, with applications to spine surgery.},
}