RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-28

McBride C, Loudermill C, Wessel-Powell C, et al (2025)

Bridging the gap across research and practice: The science of reading in contexts.

Advances in child development and behavior, 68:1-23.

In this chapter, we highlight research and practice considerations related to the science of reading. First, we provide a review of five cognitive-linguistic skills/constructs that are important for early literacy assessment and instruction across diverse contexts. These skills include pure copying, delayed copying, vocabulary knowledge, morphological awareness, and word reading. We discuss how research on assessment of these skills across languages and scripts facilitates early identification of children at-risk for reading and spelling difficulties and provides ideas and guidance for instruction. The second section of this chapter focuses on optimizing online literacy assessment and teaching while decreasing barriers to access (i.e., cost, accessibility) prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This pandemic brought with it new challenges and considerations for research and practice when the sudden pivot to an online modality was necessary. Finally, we highlight our shared interests and efforts related to the science of reading movement in the US. A brief overview of the science of reading movement in Indiana, our current context, is provided, in addition to observations of considerations that must be addressed when states move to implementing science of reading legislation. A shared excitement in and commitment to promoting research-aligned practices and informing legislation on assessment and instruction in science-based reading and writing from multiple disciplinary perspectives (i.e., developmental psychology, speech and hearing sciences, and education) fuels our efforts in advancing research and practice in the science of reading and writing.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Affolter KF, Tausendfreund T, N Eicher (2025)

Child protection during COVID-19: A systematic meta-synthesis of empirical studies exploring perspectives of young people and caregivers.

Child abuse & neglect, 167:107558 pii:S0145-2134(25)00314-X [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic affected child protection services (CPS) and the lives of those involved in different ways. This review analyzes research methodologies and service users' perspectives on COVID-19's impact on CPS in literature, published between January 1st, 2020, and October 17th, 2023.

METHOD: First, a systematic literature search identified relevant studies, which were analyzed for data collection methods, participants, and main topics. Second, a meta-synthesis was conducted on studies featuring in-depth interviews with young people and/or caregivers.

RESULTS: Of the 240 articles pre-selected for study method analysis (κ = 0.84), the most common data collection methods were surveys (53.7 %), interviews (21.3 %), and mixed methods (13.9 %). Surveys primarily targeted caregivers, while interview and mixed method studies mostly involved child protection professionals. Overall, service users were rarely asked about their perspectives on CPS. The meta-synthesis included 19 studies conducting in-depth interviews with service users, revealing that their experiences of COVID-19 were primarily crisis-stricken. COVID-19 and countermeasures were perceived as particularly challenging in areas of life where individuals lacked coping strategies, resources, and adequate support. A key challenge reported by service users was remote schooling, which disrupted daily routines, increased stress, and negatively affected overall well-being.

CONCLUSION: Research on CPS during COVID-19 often overlooked service users' perspectives, especially young people. Including these perspectives is essential for developing informed and responsive recommendations for CPS. Future research during health emergencies should therefore ensure that people's lived experiences and perspectives on CPS are researched with appropriate and diverse methods to identify newly emerging challenges and needs within CPS.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-28

Zhang Y, Hou R, Wei Z, et al (2025)

Development of the coronavirus reverse genetic system: Core technology for pathogenesis mechanisms research and vaccine/drug development.

Virulence, 16(1):2525930.

Coronaviruses (CoVs) are enveloped, single-stranded, positive-sense RNA viruses that cause respiratory, gastrointestinal, hepatic, and neurological diseases in humans and other animals. In recent years, frequent outbreaks of emerging and re-emerging CoVs have threatened animal and human health. However, an insufficient understanding of the mechanisms underlying CoV pathogenicity and cross-species transmission limits the development of drugs and vaccines against CoVs. Reverse genetic technology is a powerful tool for manipulating the genomes of CoVs and acquiring recombinant viruses, which allows researchers to better understand viral pathogenesis and develop genetically attenuated and marked vaccines and antiviral drugs. However, the large genomes of CoVs and the instability and toxicity of viral sequences in bacteria represent serious obstacles to the development of reverse genetic systems of CoVs. With the development of molecular biological methods, various new construction strategies have emerged. Accordingly, this review summarizes the construction strategies of CoV reverse genetics systems and their applications in studying pathogenesis, cross-species transmission, vaccine development, and drug screening, with the aim of providing an important reference for the prevention and control of CoVs.

RevDate: 2025-06-30
CmpDate: 2025-06-28

Visca D, Centis R, D'Ambrosio L, et al (2025)

Evaluating the impact of COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2 vaccination on TB infection testing in the context of TB elimination.

The international journal of tuberculosis and lung disease : the official journal of the International Union against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, 29(7):293-298.

OBJECTIVESThe impact of COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2-vaccination on interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) indeterminate results is unclear. This mini-review aims to examine whether COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2-vaccination affects the accuracy of IGRAs by increasing the indeterminate rate.METHODSNon-systematic literature review based on a PubMed search using specific keywords, including various combinations of 'TB', 'quantiferon', 'indeterminate or negative results' and 'covid' without any time limits.RESULTSA systematic review found an overall pooled effect size (equivalent to the indeterminate results) of 0.26 (95% confidence: 0.205-0.32) for QuantiFERON TB Plus (QFT-TB) with a mean true effect size of 0.26 (95% prediction interval: 0.11-0.5), and other studies confirmed the link with disease severity. SARS-CoV-2 vaccination does not affect IGRA interpretation.CONCLUSIONSThe use of IGRAs is not significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic or vaccinations, except in a small number of severe cases observed during the pandemic's peak. IGRAs' reliability remains consistent with their pre-pandemic performance..

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Liu J, Lyu C, Kwan C, et al (2025)

Understanding the effectiveness of psychosocial services for older adults' mental health in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Social psychiatry and psychiatric epidemiology [Epub ahead of print].

OBJECTIVE: Given the rapid development of psychosocial interventions for older adults in China and the significant mental health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to evaluate psychosocial interventions' effectiveness in promoting mental health of China's older population. To address this need, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted.

METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive search across nine electronic databases and Google Scholar for controlled trial studies published between 2018 and 2023. A meta-analytic approach with random-effects models was employed, and moderator analyses explored variability in effect size estimates.

RESULTS: Thirty-one studies with 5,941 participants were included. Guided by the WHO's framework, mental health indicators were categorized as positive or negative. Positive indicators reflect better mental health with higher values, while negative indicators show worse mental health. Significant effects were noted for negative (g = -1.21, 95% CI: -1.44, 0.99) and positive (g = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.51, 0.84) mental health indicators, moderating by geographic region, intervention type, setting, and delivery modality.

CONCLUSIONS: Psychosocial services could significantly benefit Chinese older adults' mental health. The moderator and subgroup analysis suggests that the most effective interventions involve mental health professionals and utilize multifaceted approaches. Additionally, the results indicate that intervention duration is an important consideration, as shorter-term programs in Hong Kong exhibited relatively smaller effects.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Liao RW, Hu WC, Kuo CY, et al (2025)

Adult individual resilience interventions: A PRISMA-compliant meta-analysis.

Journal of psychiatric research, 189:352-364 pii:S0022-3956(25)00419-4 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Psychological resilience interventions have garnered growing attention because of their potential to enhance mental health outcomes by facilitating adaptive responses to stress, adversity, and trauma. These approaches are especially pertinent during large-scale crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological interventions designed to enhance individual resilience. Additionally, it aimed to explore differences in intervention outcomes across key subgroups, including intervention modality and implementation timing relative to the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across six electronic databases, including EMBASE, EBSCO, APA PsycINFO, PubMed, SpringerLink, and Web of Science, to identify controlled trials or randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effectiveness of therapies proposed to increase psychological resilience. Trials that met the inclusion criteria were synthesized using a random-effects meta-analysis to calculate pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95 % confidence intervals.

RESULTS: After excluding four studies owing to potential publication bias, 16 RCTs were included in the final meta-analysis. The interventions assessed were categorized as: (1) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), (2) mindfulness-based interventions, and (3) combined CBT and mindfulness approaches. Overall, resilience-focused interventions showed a statistically significant positive effect (SMD = 1.54, P < 0.001), with subgroup analyses indicating that CBT was more effective (SMD = 1.92, P < 0.001) than the other interventions. Additionally, interventions administered during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated a greater effect (SMD = 2.13, P < 0.001) compared to those implemented before the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that CBT, mindfulness-based, and combined interventions are efficacious in enhancing psychological resilience, with CBT appearing particularly beneficial. Resilience interventions may be especially impactful during periods of heightened stress, such as during pandemics.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Eichenberg C (2025)

[Not Available].

Zeitschrift fur Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, 71(2):172-188.

UNLABELLED: Social media addiction: An overview of the current state of research Objectives: Social media addiction as a form of internet addiction is an increasing problem in psychotherapeutic practice, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. What is the current knowledge of psychopathology on social media addiction?

METHODS: Based on a literature search in PubMed, Researchgate, Connected Papers, and Springer Link (March/April 2024), the current state of research is summarised in the following areas: Definition, classification and diagnosis, prevalence, psychological comorbidities, personality traits, ethiopathogenetic factors (esp. attachment style and ability to mentalize), and treatment approaches.

RESULTS: The available knowledge is mainly based on studies from the last three years. Social media addiction has not yet been included in the current classification systems but can still be coded in a collective category (ICD-11: 'Disorders due to addictive behaviours, unspecified'), as studies have shown that social media addiction is a disorder in its own right. Treatment approaches investigated to date are based on various therapeutic schools and methods (i. a. cognitive behavioural therapy, art therapy, self-help).

CONCLUSIONS: Future therapy studies should include decidedly psychodynamic-based treatment methods, as latest studies have demonstrated the importance of attachment styles and mentalization ability as risk factors. Additionally, exploring the effectiveness of mentalization training in both treatment and prevention of digital addictions warrants further investigation.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Rizopoulos T, M Assimakopoulou (2025)

Angiotensin‑converting enzyme 2 expression in human tumors: Implications for prognosis and therapy (Review).

Oncology reports, 54(3):.

Angiotensin‑converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is one of the components of the renin‑angiotensin system. The differential expression of ACE2 is associated with carcinogenesis. ACE2 expression is altered in certain types of tumor following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. The present review aimed to summarize the role of ACE2 expression in the pathogenesis of tumors of the central nervous and endocrine system, respiratory tract, breast, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system, skin and bone, as well as hematological malignancies. ACE2 should be further evaluated in the pathogenesis of various types of human tumor to determine its diagnostic and prognostic value. Additionally, the present review summarizes the potential of ACE2 as a novel therapeutic target for cancer. However, the role of ACE2 expression as a novel chemotherapeutic tool for various human malignancies remains to be fully elucidated.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Zhu T, Li X, Gao S, et al (2025)

Successful salvage therapy of ruxolitinib on interstitial pneumonia after long COVID or post-COVID-19 syndrome with follicular lymphoma: two case reports and literature review.

Chinese clinical oncology, 14(3):35.

BACKGROUND: Immunocompromised patients with B lymphocyte deficiency and hypogammaglobulinemia after anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy for relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma (FL) are at high risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection.

CASE DESCRIPTION: In our study, two patients with refractory FL had persistent COVID-19 infection after their anti-CD19 CAR T cell therapy. The patients were diagnosed with post-COVID-19 syndrome or COVID-19 with interstitial inflammation and persistent hypoxemia. The patients received molnupiravir and Paxlovid, along with methylprednisolone therapy when their interleukin (IL)-6 levels were high. No response was observed in interstitial inflammation, persistent hypoxemia, or persistent positive expression of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2); however, the level of IL-6 decreased after these therapies. These two patients subsequently received low-dose ruxolitinib (5 mg, twice daily) as salvage therapy in combination with a gradually reduced dosage of methylprednisolone. After 1-2 months of ruxolitinib therapy, persistent hypoxemia was relieved, and interstitial inflammation was significantly absorbed. At the same time, the SARS-CoV-2 detection was found to be negative.

CONCLUSIONS: Ruxolitinib might be a safe and effective alternative salvage therapy for patients with COVID-19 having interstitial inflammation and persistent hypoxemia without high cytokine levels and no response to corticosteroids.

RevDate: 2025-06-29

Bahrampour Juybari K, Shamsi Meymandi M, H Bashiri (2025)

Effects of colchicine, interferon β, IVIG, tocilizumab and corticosteroids on COVID-19 patient survival from all presently available published clinical trials: A narrative review.

Caspian journal of internal medicine, 16(2):198-214.

One of the deadliest diseases in the world, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of the ongoing global pandemic known as COVID-19. COVID-19 symptoms range from undetectable to deadly, hyper-inflammatory response and the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines or hypercytokinemia are key factors in the pathophysiology of severe COVID-19. However, no specific and effective treatment was available, anti-inflammatory drugs have been vastly used for treating patients. The goal of this narrative literature review (2020-2022) was to elucidate the connection between anti-inflammatory medications and COVID-19 outcomes, such as safety and survival rate. Overall, these studies are consistent in presenting that anti-inflammatory drug can be advised to target the host immune response in patients and have been beneficial in reducing the mortality rate. This is revealed in current recommendations from prominent global public health authorities, which support anti-inflammatory drug use for a decrease of cytokine storm during COVID-19.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Sanyaolu A, Okorie C, Marinkovic A, et al (2025)

COVID-19 management in patients with comorbid conditions.

World journal of virology, 14(2):102674.

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes serious respiratory illness and related disorders. Vulnerable populations, including those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, obesity, and the elderly, face an increased risk of severe complications. As the pandemic evolves, various diagnostic techniques are available to detect severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (SARS-CoV-2), including clinical presentation, rapid antigen/antibody testing, molecular testing, supplemental laboratory analysis, and imaging. Based on peer-reviewed data, treatment options include convalescent plasma transfusion, corticosteroids, antivirals, and immunomodulatory medications. Convalescent plasma therapy, historically used in outbreaks like Middle East respiratory syndrome, Ebola, and SARS, is suggested by the World Health Organization for critically ill COVID-19 patients when vaccines or antiviral drugs are unavailable. Neutralizing antibodies in convalescent plasma help control viral load and improve patient outcomes, especially when administered early, though effectiveness varies. The United States Food and Drug Administration has authorized its emergency use for severe COVID-19 cases, but potential risks such as transfusion reactions and transfusion-related acute lung injury require further investigation to establish definitive efficacy. Antiviral agents like Remdesivir, an adenosine nucleotide analog, inhibit viral RNA polymerase and have shown efficacy in reducing COVID-19 severity, leading to its emergency use authorization for hospitalized patients. Other antivirals like ritonavir, lopinavir, and umifenovir disrupt viral replication and entry, but their effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 remains under investigation. Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, has been used in critically ill COVID-19 patients to reduce inflammation and prevent respiratory failure, as shown in the RECOVERY trial. Other immunosuppressants like ruxolitinib, baricitinib, and colchicine help modulate the immune response, reducing cytokine storms and inflammation-related complications. However, corticosteroids carry risks such as hyperglycemia, immunosuppression, and delayed viral clearance, requiring careful administration. Systematic reviews of clinical studies revealed that hydroxychloroquine with or without azithromycin did not decrease viral load nor reduce the severity of symptoms, but increased mortality among acutely hospitalized patients. There was no improvement in patients' clinical conditions after 15 days compared to standard treatment. The United States Food and Drug Administration has revoked the authorization for the use of hydroxychloroquine in COVID-19 patients due to the null benefit-risk balance. Monoclonal antibodies like itolizumab, gimsilumab, sarilumab, and tocilizumab are being studied for their ability to reduce the severe inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients, particularly cytokine release syndrome and acute respiratory distress syndrome. These antibodies target specific immune pathways to decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines, with some showing promising results in clinical trials, though their use remains under investigation. The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas13 family of enzymes, sequenced from many COVID-19-positive patients, can potentially inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication, cleave the RNA genome, and aid in the amplification of the genome assay. Cas13 can also target emerging pathogens via an adeno-associated virus vector when delivered to the infected lungs. In addition to pharmacological agents, vaccines effectively prevent symptomatic infection, reduce hospitalizations, minimize mortality rates, and ultimately reduce the severity of the disease. This paper aims to explore the management of patients with underlying conditions who present with COVID-19 to lessen the burden on healthcare systems.

RevDate: 2025-07-02
CmpDate: 2025-07-02

Liston K, Bartley G, Haddadan G, et al (2025)

Emergency Nursing Care in a Patient With a Serum Blood Glucose of 2394 mg/dL: A Case Review.

Journal of emergency nursing, 51(4):578-586.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency arising from insufficient insulin supply in diabetes and is commonly triggered by infection. Management for diabetic ketoacidosis is well documented, which involves the administration of short-acting insulin, fluids, and electrolyte correction, with some studies describing a probable relationship between diabetic ketoacidosis and coronavirus disease 2019, resulting in extreme hyperglycemia.

PATIENT PRESENTATION: This case review details the emergency nursing management of a 34-year-old female who presented in metabolic extremis from probable diabetic ketoacidosis. Serum blood analysis results revealed a blood glucose of 2394 mg/dL, a ketone level of 45.32 mg/dL, a potassium level of 6.1 mmol/L, unmeasurable hypothermia, coronavirus disease 2019 positivity, and progressive torsades de pointes. Management strategies focused on airway management, suitable tonicity and osmolarity correction, and rectification of electrolyte derangements.

CONCLUSION: The patient was transferred to a tertiary care hospital and discharged home with no physiological deficits. This case review aimed to inform the management of extreme hyperglycemia in diabetic ketoacidosis.

RevDate: 2025-07-02
CmpDate: 2025-07-02

Leep-Lazar K, Ma C, AW Stimpfel (2025)

Factors Associated With Intent to Leave the Nursing Profession in the United States: An Integrative Review.

Research in nursing & health, 48(4):429-440.

The ongoing regional nursing shortages in the United States, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, compromise patient safety and quality. Additionally, an aging workforce coupled with an aging population requiring more nursing care services limits organizations' ability to adequately staff their facilities. Nurses' turnover from the profession has been studied less than organizational turnover, thus, the purpose of this integrative review is to identify factors associated with intention to leave the nursing profession in the United States. Using Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) guidelines for integrative review methods, we conducted systematic searches in CINAHL, PubMed, and Web of Science in July 2024. There were 39 peer-reviewed studies that met inclusion criteria. Synthesis of findings resulted in four individual and four work-level themes associated with intent to leave the nursing profession. Individual themes included individual beliefs, health and wellbeing, individual work experiences, and career stability. Work-level themes included job characteristics, job demands/workload, resources and support, and work environment. Notably, job-level factors (i.e., workload, work environment, and support) were associated with professional turnover intention, which suggests that nurses do not believe their experiences will improve at another nursing job. Gaps in the literature include studies with nationally representative samples, studies using validated measures of health, and qualitative studies conducted with the aim of understanding why nurses want to leave the profession. To promote retention of nurses at the professional and organizational level, organizations should measure and modify relevant job-level factors, and the protection of nurses' wellness should be a top organizational priority.

RevDate: 2025-07-02
CmpDate: 2025-07-02

Lin KH, Selvanayagam N, Patnaik S, et al (2025)

Burnout Among Physicians and Nurses Working in Intensive Care Units and Emergency Departments: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Journal of emergency nursing, 51(4):702-720.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to discover the prevalence and risk factors of burnout among physicians and nurses working in intensive care units and emergency departments.

METHODS: This systematic review followed the reporting guidance from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. A literature search was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Embase. The search was conducted in November 2023. English-language studies reporting burnout prevalence and risk factors among intensive care units and emergency physicians and nurses, with primary outcomes, were identified. Quantitative studies with observational designs underwent review, with 2 independent reviewers screening titles, abstracts, and full texts for inclusion. Quality assessment used Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. A meta-analysis was conducted if data were sufficient.

RESULTS: This review included 17 studies. The pooled prevalence rates for burnout, high emotional exhaustion, high depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment were 46%, 48%, 30%, and 47%, respectively. Factors such as age, sex, smoking/tobacco use, education level, years of experience, workload, and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 were identified as significant determinants of burnout in this population.

DISCUSSION: The results assisted in determining preventive strategies and identified areas for future research.

RevDate: 2025-07-02
CmpDate: 2025-07-02

Zalud I (2025)

Faculty retention in academic OB/GYN: comprehensive strategies and future directions.

Journal of perinatal medicine, 53(6):696-701.

The retention of academic faculty, particularly in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN), has become a growing challenge in the post-COVID era. The healthcare landscape has been dramatically altered, leading to a "Great Exit" where a large number of faculty members are resigning or retiring early. This phenomenon is not just a financial burden as recruitment costs have skyrocketed, but also poses a threat to the stability and reputation of academic institutions. In this review article, we explore the underlying causes of faculty attrition, the predictors of resignation, and propose comprehensive strategies to retain talented faculty members. We highlight the importance of mentorship, career development opportunities, and fostering a supportive work environment that aligns with both institutional and individual values. The goal is to create a sustainable framework for faculty engagement that strengthens the academic mission and improves clinical outcomes.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Kammer RL, Federici R, S Gormley (2025)

Topical Review: Clinical, Physiological, and Functional Benefits of Home-based Telerehabilitation with Occupational Therapists for Low Vision.

International journal of telerehabilitation, 17(1):6703.

For patients with low vision, rehabilitation enables the performance of daily activities and the acquisition of skills while enhancing quality of life, despite vision loss. Access to comprehensive low vision rehabilitation services, however, is often limited. The rise of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic has facilitated innovative delivery of healthcare, including telerehabilitation for low vision. This literature review was undertaken to evaluate the current evidence regarding telerehabilitation conducted by occupational therapists for patients with low vision. In this review, studies investigating the effects of new programs largely found significant improvements in outcomes. Results of a multicenter, randomized controlled trial found that reading ability significantly improved and results did not differ between therapies conducted through telerehabilitation or in-office. Additionally, studies surveying providers and patients regarding their sentiments about telehealth found that comfort level and overall satisfaction were similar between in-office visits and telerehabilitation.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Kalulu P, Fisher A, Whitter G, et al (2025)

Trust, trust repair, and public health: a scoping review.

Frontiers in public health, 13:1560089.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the scope of evidence on trust, trust repair, and public health.

METHODS: We identified quantitative studies that evaluated the relationship between trust or trust repair and public health from January 1990 to May 2023. Results were stratified evaluating trust as an exposure or outcome and reporting on trust repair. Data are reported on spatiotemporal trends in publications, level of trust (institutional trust, generalized trust, and interpersonal trust), types of trust measures used, objects and determinants of trust, and associations between trust and public health behaviors.

RESULTS: Among 194 included studies, most (86%, 166/194) were published after the COVID-19 pandemic and in high-income countries. Among 40 reports that evaluated trust as an outcome, most (52%) evaluated trust in government. Socioeconomic factors (n = 18), perceived government performance (n = 14), and media/information (n = 8) were the most common determinants overall and for institutional trust. Three reports focused on trust repair (n = 2) or maintenance (n = 1).

CONCLUSION: This review provides a roadmap for future research on evaluating and improving trust and public health.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Clark N, Bright R, Vasilev K, et al (2025)

Potential therapeutic effects of zinc and copper chlorophyllins in viral respiratory infections: recent developments and future directions.

Critical reviews in food science and nutrition [Epub ahead of print].

Zinc and copper are essential trace elements that regulate immunity and inflammation, with antiviral effects that may help combat respiratory viruses like SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. These effects include reducing cytokine storms and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, zinc and copper uptake is limited by homeostasis mechanisms, reducing their effectiveness. Sodium copper chlorophyllin (SCC) and sodium zinc chlorophyllin (SZC), nontoxic chlorophyll derivatives, may overcome these limitations by delivering higher intracellular levels of these metals. Evidence suggests SCC and SZC exhibit antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses by inhibiting viral entry, replication, and release from infected cells. Animal studies show that SCC can lower viral loads and reduce ARDS-like symptoms. Additionally, SCC and SZC may suppress proinflammatory cytokines, potentially preventing or reducing the severity of cytokine storms. This review highlights the antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of zinc and copper, explores the therapeutic potential of SCC and SZC in viral respiratory infections, and discusses future research directions to optimize these treatments.

RevDate: 2025-06-29

Song J, Su D, Wu H, et al (2025)

Implications of Anaphylaxis Following mRNA-LNP Vaccines: It Is Urgent to Eliminate PEG and Find Alternatives.

Pharmaceutics, 17(6):.

The mRNA vaccine has protected humans from the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and has taken the lead in reversing the epidemic efficiently. However, the Centre of Disease Control (CDC) reported and raised the alarm of allergic or acute inflammatory adverse reactions after vaccination with mRNA-LNP vaccines. Meanwhile, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has added four black-box warnings in the instructions for mRNA-LNP vaccines. Numerous studies have proven that the observance of side effects after vaccination is indeed positively correlated to the level of anti-PEG antibodies (IgM or IgG), which are enhanced by PEGylated preparations like LNP vaccine and environmental exposure. After literature research and review in the past two decades, it was found that the many clinical trial failures (BIND-014, RB006 fell in phase II) of PEG modified delivery system or PEGylated drug were related to the high expression of anti-PEG IgM and IgG. In the background of shooting multiple mRNA-LNP vaccines in billions of people around the world in the past three years, the level of anti-PEG antibodies in the population may have significantly increased, which brings potential risks for PEG-modified drug development and clinical safety. This review summarizes the experience of using mRNA-LNP vaccines from the mechanism of the anti-PEG antibodies generation, detection methods, clinical failure cases of PEG-containing products, harm analysis of abuse of PEGylation, and alternatives. In light of the increasing prevalence of anti-PEG antibodies in the population and the need to avoid secondary injuries, this review article holds greater significance by offering insights for drug developers. It suggests avoiding the use of PEG excipients when designing PEGylated drugs or PEG-modified nano-formulations and provides references for strategies such as utilizing PEG-free or alternative excipients.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Petito E, P Gresele (2025)

VITT Pathophysiology: An Update.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

Vaccine-induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare thrombotic disorder first identified in 2021 as a catastrophic syndrome associated with anti-SARS-CoV-2 adenoviral vector (AdV)-vaccine administration. It is characterized by the presence of oligo- or monoclonal anti-PF4 antibodies able to induce in vitro platelet activation in the presence of PF4. In addition to this immune-based pathomechanism, random splicing events of the Adv-vector DNA encoding for SARS-CoV-2 spike protein resulting in the secretion of soluble spike variants have been postulated as a possible pathophysiological mechanism. More recently, some novel clinical-pathological anti-PF4-associated entities also characterized by thrombosis, thrombocytopenia, and VITT-like antibodies but independent from heparin or AdV-vaccine administration have been identified. To date, these VITT-like disorders have been reported following the administration of vaccines different from anti-SARS-CoV-2 AdV-vaccines, like human papillomavirus (HPV) and mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, following a bacterial or viral respiratory infection, and in patients with a monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the knowledge on VITT pathogenesis, focusing on recent findings on anti-PF4 antibodies, on a possible genetic predisposition to VITT, on VITT-antibody intracellular activated pathways, on lipid metabolism alterations, and on new VITT-like disorders.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Rezahosseini O, Bazargan A, Eiberg MF, et al (2025)

Safety and Immunogenicity of Co-Administration of Herpes Zoster Vaccines with Other Vaccines in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

Introduction: Herpes zoster (HZ), or shingles, is a vaccine-preventable disease with two approved vaccines: the live-attenuated vaccine (LZV) and the adjuvanted recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV). Evidence on the immunogenicity and adverse events (AEs) following co-administration with other vaccines in adults is limited. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the immunogenicity and safety of HZ vaccines when co-administered with other vaccines. Methods: We followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and systematically searched multiple databases (January 1950 to February 2024) for studies on HZ vaccination with concomitant vaccines in adults (≥18 years). Observational studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and non-randomized controlled trials were included, excluding reviews, case series, case reports, editorials, and non-English publications. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane tools (RoB 2 and ROBINS-I). A meta-analysis compared geometric mean concentration (GMC) ratios and vaccine response rates (VRRs) for RZV, applying the Hartung-Knapp adjustment. For LZV, meta-analysis was not feasible, and results were described narratively. AEs were analyzed using risk ratios and presented in forest plots. Results: Out of 369 search hits, ten RCTs were included. In six RCTs, RZV was co-administered with influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal vaccines (PCV13, PPSV23), or Tdap. The pooled GMC mean difference was -0.04 (95% CI: -0.10 to 0.02, p = 0.19), and the pooled VRR was 1.00 (95% CI: 0.99 to 1.01, p = 0.59). Local and systemic AEs showed pooled relative risks of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.95 to 1.03, p = 0.73) and 1.01 (95% CI: 0.91 to 1.11, p = 0.90), respectively. LZV co-administration was investigated in four RCTs and was safe; however, co-administration with PPSV23 resulted in reduced immunogenicity. Conclusions: The co-administration of RZV with other vaccines was safe and immunogenic. However, limited evidence suggests that co-administration of LZV with PPSV23 reduced the immunogenicity of LZV through an unknown mechanism. Still, RZV co-administration could enhance vaccine uptake in vulnerable populations.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Qiao R, Li J, Gong J, et al (2025)

Evolving SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines: From Current Solutions to Broad-Spectrum Protection.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

The continuous evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the emergence of variants of concern (VOCs) underscore the critical role of vaccination in pandemic control. These mutations not only enhance viral infectivity but also facilitate immune evasion and diminish vaccine efficacy, necessitating ongoing surveillance and vaccine adaptation. Current SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, including inactivated, live-attenuated, viral vector, protein subunit, virus-like particle, and nucleic acid vaccines, face challenges due to the immune evasion strategies of emerging variants. Moreover, other sarbecoviruses, such as SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-related coronaviruses (SARSr-CoVs) pose a potential risk for future outbreaks. Thus, developing vaccines capable of countering emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and providing broad protection against multiple sarbecoviruses is imperative. Several innovative vaccine platforms are being investigated to elicit broad-spectrum neutralizing antibody responses, offering protection against both current SARS-CoV-2 variants and other sarbecoviruses. This review presents an updated overview of the key target antigens and therapeutic strategies employed in current SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Additionally, we summarize ongoing approaches for the development of vaccines targeting infectious sarbecoviruses.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Zhang E, Shang S, Xing Y, et al (2025)

Mapping Behavioral and Social Drivers of Influenza Vaccine Uptake in Older Adults: A Scoping Review.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

Background/Objectives: Influenza vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing morbidity and mortality among older adults; however, uptake remains suboptimal, particularly in the post-COVID-19 pandemic. In many settings, countries have not recovered their influenza vaccine coverage rates to the same level as pre-COVID. Therefore, this scoping review systematically identified the behavioral and social drivers (BeSD) influencing influenza vaccination among older adults using the BeSD framework. Methods: A systematic search across five databases included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies involving individuals aged 60 years and older. Data were charted across four BeSD domains: thinking and feeling, social processes, motivation, and practical issues. Results: Thirty-nine studies from 24 countries were included. Key barriers encompassed safety concerns, misinformation, financial burdens, logistical challenges, and cultural and language barriers. While motivation was positively associated with vaccination intentions, the transition from intention to behavior remains underexplored, and practical issues have received comparatively limited research attention. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for multifaceted, behaviorally informed interventions and greater inclusion of under-resourced settings to support equitable influenza vaccination strategies for healthy aging.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Oloruntimehin S, Akinyi F, Paul M, et al (2025)

mRNA Vaccine Technology Beyond COVID-19.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Since their approval in early 2020, mRNA vaccines have gained significant attention since the COVID-19 pandemic as a potential therapeutic approach to tackle several infectious diseases. This article aims to review the current state of mRNA vaccine technology and its use against other diseases.

METHODS: To obtain accurate and reliable data, we carefully searched the clinicaltrial.gov and individual companies' websites for current ongoing clinical trials reports. Also, we accessed different NCBI databases for recent articles or reports of clinical trials, innovative design of mRNA vaccines, and reviews.

RESULTS: Significant progress has been made in the design and improvement of mRNA vaccine technology. Currently, there are hundreds of ongoing clinical trials on mRNA vaccines against different cancer types, infectious diseases, and genetic and rare diseases, which showcase the advancement in this technology and their potential therapeutic advantages over traditional vaccine platforms. Finally, we predict what could be a potential future direction in designing more effective mRNA vaccines, particularly against cancer.

CONCLUSIONS: The results of many of the ongoing clinical trials have shown significant positive outcomes, with many of the trials already at Phase III. Despite this outlook, however, some have been terminated or withdrawn for several reasons, some of which are not made available. This means that despite the advancement, there is a need for more research and critical evaluation of each innovation to better understand their immunological benefits and long-term effects.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Eslami M, Fadaee Dowlat B, Yaghmayee S, et al (2025)

Next-Generation Vaccine Platforms: Integrating Synthetic Biology, Nanotechnology, and Systems Immunology for Improved Immunogenicity.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

The emergence of complex and rapidly evolving pathogens necessitates innovative vaccine platforms that move beyond traditional methods. This review explores the transformative potential of next-generation vaccine technologies, focusing on the combined use of synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and systems immunology. Synthetic biology provides modular tools for designing antigenic components with improved immunogenicity, as seen in mRNA, DNA, and peptide-based platforms featuring codon optimization and self-amplifying constructs. At the same time, nanotechnology enables precise antigen delivery and controlled immune activation through engineered nanoparticles such as lipid-based carriers, virus-like particles, and polymeric systems to improve stability, targeting, and dose efficiency. Systems immunology aids these advancements by analyzing immune responses through multi-omics data and computational modeling, which assists in antigen selection, immune profiling, and adjuvant optimization. This approach enhances both humoral and cellular immunity, solving challenges like antigen presentation, response durability, and vaccine personalization. Case studies on SARS-CoV-2, Epstein-Barr virus, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis highlight the practical application of these platforms. Despite promising progress, challenges include scalability, safety evaluation, and ethical concerns with data-driven vaccine designs. Ongoing interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial to fully develop these technologies for strong, adaptable, globally accessible vaccines. This review emphasizes next-generation vaccines as foundational for future immunoprophylaxis, especially against emerging infectious diseases and cancer immunotherapy.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Sanni A, Ibrahim N, Tilley D, et al (2025)

Maternal Vaccination as an Integral Part of Life-Course Immunization: A Scoping Review of Uptake, Barriers, Facilitators, and Vaccine Hesitancy for Antenatal Vaccination in Ireland.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

Background: Maternal vaccination is a critical primary preventive approach and an integral part of life-course immunization strategy, influencing the infection-associated morbidity and mortality in pregnant women, foetuses, and young infants. Despite clear guidelines for the administration of vaccines against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), influenza, and COVID-19 during pregnancy, maternal vaccination rates remain suboptimal in Ireland as per the National Immunisation Office of the Health Service Executive (HSE). Aim: This review explores the prevailing status, uptake factors, and maternal immunization-specific vaccine hesitancy in Ireland. Method: A scoping review was conducted, searching nine electronic databases, including the Irish health research repository Lenus. The search strategy utilised a Population-Concept-Context framework (pregnant women-vaccine uptake/hesitancy-Ireland). Key factors identified and categorised according to the 5A framework: access, affordability, awareness, acceptance, and activation. Results: Searches yielded 2457 articles, and 12 eligible studies were included for review. Influencing factors were identified in each of the 5A dimensions, with the majority relating to acceptance and awareness. Positively associated factors included healthcare provider (HCP) recommendation and knowledge of vaccine safety. Potential antenatal barriers were maternal lack of knowledge of vaccine-preventable illness severity, infection risks, and vaccine safety concerns. A pregnant woman's primary motivation for antenatal immunization was protection of her infant; however, the reluctance of HCPs to prescribe all recommended antenatal vaccines, inadequate immunization-specific discussion during antenatal consultations, and suboptimal knowledge of pregnancy-specific vaccine safety hampered potential positive influences. The Irish national immunization policy was a facilitator of affordability. Activation can be achieved through public health awareness campaigns and interdisciplinary promotion of maternal vaccination uptake. Conclusions: Maternal vaccination uptake in Ireland remains suboptimal, and a coordinated, targeted approach updating HCP recommendations, enhancing maternal awareness, and highlighting vaccine safety in pregnancy would be required to meet the life-course immunization goals recommended by WHO. By adopting a life-course immunization approach for healthy living, with maternal vaccination as the pivotal central point, vaccination programmes could close immunity gaps at various life stages.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Sułek M, A Szuster-Ciesielska (2025)

The Bioengineering of Insect Cell Lines for Biotherapeutics and Vaccine Production: An Updated Review.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

Insect cell lines are a cornerstone of recombinant protein production, providing a versatile platform for biopharmaceutical and research applications. In the early 20th century, scientists first attempted to culture insect cells in vitro, developing continuous cell lines to produce the first insect cell-derived recombinant protein, IFN-β. Initial successes, along with advancements in the use of insect cells for recombinant protein manufacturing, primarily relied on baculovirus expression vector systems (BEVSs), which enable heterologous gene expression in infected cells. Today, growing attention is focused on baculovirus-free systems based on the transfection of insect cells with plasmid DNA. This approach simplifies the final product purification process and facilitates the development of stable monoclonal cell lines that produce recombinant proteins or protein complexes, particularly virus-like particles (VLPs). Thanks to advancements in genetic engineering and the application of adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) methods, significant strides have been made in overcoming many limitations associated with insect cell BEVSs, ultimately enhancing the reliability, yield, and quality of the biomanufacturing process. Our manuscript discusses the history of developing insect cell lines, presents various recombinant protein production systems utilizing these cells, and summarizes modifications aimed at improving insect cell lines for recombinant protein biomanufacturing. Finally, we explore their implications in pharmaceutical production, particularly on Nuvaxovid[®]/Covovax, which is the latest approved vaccine developed using insect cell BEVSs for protection against SARS-CoV-2.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Wełnicki M, Mamcarz A, Kuchar E, et al (2025)

The Impact of COVID-19 and the Practical Importance of Vaccinations and Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir for Patients with Cardiovascular Disease.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed a huge challenge to global health systems. In addition to searching for effective methods of treating and preventing infection with a new pathogen, we could once again observe that severe respiratory infection and its complications can be become a challenging problem for cardiac patients. Empirical observations are fully confirmed by the results of clinical trials. Patients with risk factors and already diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases are particularly exposed to the severe course of COVID-19, including death. That is why we consider it so important to promote vaccinations against COVID-19 as a safe and effective method of preventing serious infections in this special group of patients, in accordance with the updated recommendations of relevant experts. If an infection is detected, depending on its form and the risk of hospitalization, there are also several antiviral treatment strategies. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir therapy is particularly effective in selected patient groups, but its use requires analysis of the cardiac pharmacotherapy regimen in the context of potentially significant drug interactions.

RevDate: 2025-06-30

Forchette LT, Palma L, Sanchez C, et al (2025)

Cardiopulmonary Effects of COVID-19 Vaccination: A Comprehensive Narrative Review.

Vaccines, 13(6):.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have been associated with numerous side effects since their widespread release to the public. Cardiovascular complications include myocarditis and pericarditis, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), arrhythmias, sudden cardiac death, and cardiac tamponade. Pulmonary complications are pulmonary embolism (PE), interstitial lung disease (ILD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), pneumonia, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, pneumonitis, and pulmonary hypertension. Despite these complications, the risk-benefit analysis still strongly favors vaccination, as these events occur more frequently with natural infection and confer a significantly worse prognosis. This study outlines the evidence surrounding each attributed effect, the clinical course including diagnosis and management, and the proposed pathophysiology. To our knowledge, this is the most comprehensive review of the cardiopulmonary effects of COVID-19 vaccination to date.

RevDate: 2025-06-29
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Vicoveanu D, Gherman O, Șoldănescu I, et al (2025)

Patient Health Record Smart Network Challenges and Trends for a Smarter World.

Sensors (Basel, Switzerland), 25(12):.

Personal health records (PHRs) are digital repositories that allow individuals to access, manage, and share their health information. By enabling patients to track their health over time and communicate effectively with healthcare providers, personal health records support more personalized care and improve the quality of healthcare. Their integration with emerging technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain, enhances the utility and security of health data management, facilitating continuous health monitoring, automated decision support, and secure, decentralized data exchange. Despite their potential, PHR systems face significant challenges, including privacy concerns, security issues, and digital accessibility problems. This paper discusses the fundamental concepts, requirements, system architectures, and data sources that underpin modern PHR implementations, highlighting how they enable continuous health monitoring through the integration of wearable sensors; mobile health applications; and IoT-enabled medical devices that collect, process, and transmit data to support proactive care and personalized treatments. The benefits and limitations of PHR systems are also discussed in detail, with a focus on interoperability, adoption drivers, and the role of advanced technologies in supporting the development of secure and scalable health information systems for a smarter world.

RevDate: 2025-07-01
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Negi V, Miller AS, RJ Kuhn (2025)

Advances in Viroporin Function and Structure: A Comparative Analysis of Alphavirus 6K with Well-Characterized Viroporins.

Viruses, 17(6):.

Viruses encode ion channel proteins called viroporins to assist in infection and immune evasion. The alphavirus 6K protein is classified as a member of the viroporin family of proteins. Several studies have characterized the role of 6K in alphavirus budding and infection since its discovery in the late 1970s. In this review, we summarize 6K research and discuss some unanswered questions regarding 6K biology. We highlight the similarities and differences between 6K and viroporins of clinically relevant viruses-influenza A virus, HIV-1, hepatitis C virus, and SARS-CoV-2-and address their importance as therapeutic targets. The sensitivity of these viroporins to common inhibitors and their ability to functionally complement each other underscore their potential as targets for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies.

RevDate: 2025-06-29
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Menis AA, Gerovasileiou E, Mantzarlis K, et al (2025)

The Effect on Mortality of Bacterial Co-Infections on Critically Ill Patients with Community-Acquired COVID-19 and Influenza Pneumonia: A Systematic Review.

Viruses, 17(6):.

Background: Bacterial co-infections in patients with viral pneumonia might increase mortality. In this study we aimed to evaluate their effect on the mortality of critically ill patients with viral pneumonia. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Cochrane from inception until 30 March 2025. We included studies comparing the effect on mortality of bacterial co-infections in critically ill patients with viral pneumonia. The risk of bias was assessed by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results: From 3643 studies, 10 were included in our study with a total of 2862 COVID-19 patients and 4573 influenza patients. Seven studies were retrospective and three prospective. In total, 359/2862 of the COVID-19 and 904/4573 of the influenza patients were co-infected. Co-infections increased mortality in five out of the six studies evaluating COVID-19 patients and in two out of the eight studies evaluating influenza patients. Conclusions: The majority of the included studies were retrospective, which may limit the accuracy of these results. The exclusion of non-English literature may have led to the omission of relevant data. Based on our results, the impact of bacterial co-infection may be more pronounced in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia admitted to the ICU than in patients with influenza pneumonia.

RevDate: 2025-06-29
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Williams R, Hales J, Collier W, et al (2025)

Coronavirus Replication: Genomes, Subgenomic RNAs, and Defective Viral Genomes.

Viruses, 17(6):.

With the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic the process of coronavirus replication has been under increasing scrutiny. During the replication of their genomic RNA, coronaviruses produce a range of other RNAs in addition to the negative-sense replicative intermediates of the genome, which includes a set of subgenomic RNAs. These subgenomic RNAs are nested within the sequence of the complete genome and can be both replicated further and act as templates for protein production. Alongside these functional products of discontinuous replication, coronaviruses produce defective viral genomes that can potentially impact both the virus and infected host cells. These interactions can arise from the ability of these defective viral genomes to impact the production of new infectious virions, through either competition with the wild-type genome for replication or by stimulating an antiviral response. Examining the behaviour of defective viral genomes can also help to elucidate the functional elements of the genome involved in the processes of replication and packaging. This review covers the process of intracellular replication by coronaviruses describing the mechanisms by which the different RNA species are produced. Of particular focus are factors involved in discontinuous replication that produces defective viral genomes, and the behaviour of coronavirus defective viral genomes.

RevDate: 2025-06-29
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Hellen CUT (2025)

Viral Strategies and Cellular Countermeasures That Regulate mRNA Access to the Translation Apparatus.

Viruses, 17(6):.

The papers introduced in the Commentary present new insights and review aspects of current knowledge concerning the competition between viruses and their hosts for the cellular translation apparatus. Viruses depend on this apparatus and utilize diverse mechanisms to usurp it for the translation of viral mRNAs and to suppress synthesis of cellular proteins. Virus-induced modification of translation factors, selective abrogation of mRNA binding to ribosomes and degradation of cellular mRNAs all impair elements of the innate immune response, thereby undermining host defenses against infection. Various cellular mechanisms prevent translation of viral mRNAs, by modifying components of the translation apparatus to effect a generalized shut-off of translation or by binding of host proteins to viral mRNAs to induce their degradation or to prevent their engagement with the translation apparatus. Viruses have in turn evolved countermeasures to evade these defenses, for example by encoding proteins that impair the activity of host factors or via alterations in the sequence and structure of viral mRNAs. Such changes enable viral mRNAs to avoid recognition by host factors or to support translation initiation by specialized mechanisms that involve only a subset of the factors that are required by cellular mRNAs.

RevDate: 2025-06-29

Chronopoulou S, I Tsochantaridis (2025)

Interferon Lambda: The Next Frontier in Antiviral Therapy?.

Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland), 18(6):.

Type III interferons (IFN-λ) are the most recently identified members of the interferon family, distantly related to type I interferons and members of the interleukin-10 (IL-10). Unlike type I interferons, which have broadly distributed cellular receptors, IFN-λ signals through a heterodimeric receptor complex with primary expression on epithelial cells. This restricted receptor distribution makes IFN-λ a favorable candidate for therapeutic and antiviral applications with reduced side effects. In this review, we describe the molecular structure, signaling mechanisms, and the role of IFN-λ in the innate immunity of epithelial tissue, which are its primary sites of action. Moreover, this review will summarize and critically examine the antiviral potential of IFN-λ based on all published clinical trials conducted for the treatment of COVID-19, and hepatitis B, C and D virus. Furthermore, this review suggests IFN-λ as a promising therapeutic recombinant protein, with special emphasis on its potential for production using alternative expression and advanced drug delivery systems. To emphasize its potential as a therapeutic intervention, the design and engineering of recombinant IFN-λ will be presented, with a focus on its lower side-effect profile compared to Type I interferons.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Sokou R, Lianou A, Lampridou M, et al (2025)

Neonates at Risk: Understanding the Impact of High-Risk Pregnancies on Neonatal Health.

Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 61(6):.

High-risk pregnancies (HRPs) constitute a significant global health issue due to their strong association with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Although pregnancy is generally characterized by positive expectations, the presence of maternal comorbidities, gestational complications, or adverse socioeconomic and environmental conditions can markedly elevate the probability of unfavorable outcomes. HRPs contribute disproportionately to complications such as preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, low birth weight, and congenital anomalies, which are key determinants of neonatal mortality and long-term developmental and health challenges. A broad spectrum of risk factors as well as insufficient prenatal care, underscores the complex nature of HRPs. These conditions necessitate a multidisciplinary management approach encompassing early risk identification, continuous monitoring, and individualized interventions. The neonatal prognosis in such contexts is strongly influenced by gestational age at delivery, birth weight, the standard of neonatal care, and the underlying etiological factors driving preterm or complicated deliveries. Preventive strategies including comprehensive prenatal screening, systematic antenatal follow-up, and timely referral to specialized perinatal care centers are essential for reducing the burden of HRPs. Furthermore, addressing social determinants of health-such as low socioeconomic status and limited access to healthcare-is critical for optimizing maternal and neonatal outcomes. This review consolidates current evidence on the epidemiology, etiological factors, and clinical implications of high-risk pregnancies, emphasizing the necessity of an integrative, preventive, and multidisciplinary framework to mitigate adverse neonatal outcomes and improve long-term health trajectories.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Maritescu A, Crisan AF, Pescaru CC, et al (2025)

The Psychological and Physical Benefits of Progressive Muscle Relaxation in Chronic Respiratory Diseases: A Systematic Review.

Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 61(6):.

Background and Objectives: Chronic respiratory diseases, such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, and post-COVID-19, are frequently accompanied by psychological distress and physical impairment. As a non-pharmacological intervention, progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) may benefit these patients psychologically and physiologically. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of PMR on anxiety, depression, fatigue, sleep quality, dyspnea, and pulmonary function in patients with COPD, CF, and COVID-19. Materials and Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Cochrane, SpringerLink, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Eligible studies assessed PMR in adult patients with COPD, CF, or COVID-19. Psychological and physical outcomes were extracted, and methodological quality and risk of bias were evaluated using standardized tools. Results: A total of 32 studies were included in the analysis. PMR was consistently associated with reductions in anxiety, depression, fatigue, and sleep-related distress, particularly in patients with COPD and COVID-19. Some also reported improvements in dyspnea and mild pulmonary function tests, but these were more variable. Only one study evaluated PMR in patients with cystic fibrosis, providing the first clinical data for this group. Interventions were predominantly short-term, with significant variation in design, duration, and methodology, and the risk of bias was often moderate or high. Conclusions: PMR is a helpful strategy in treating chronic respiratory diseases, particularly for reducing psychological distress and improving sleep. However, the evidence is limited by methodological variations and lack of long-term follow-up. Rigorous research is needed to support clinical application, particularly in cystic fibrosis.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Storari L, Piai J, Zitti M, et al (2025)

Standardized Definition of Red Flags in Musculoskeletal Care: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines.

Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 61(6):.

Background and Objectives: The aging population and the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a rise in severe conditions, including musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders. Although MSK conditions are often managed in primary care, they may sometimes mask serious illnesses requiring urgent diagnosis. The red flag (RF) concept is essential for identifying signs and symptoms of potentially severe disease. However, RF criteria vary across clinical guidelines and lack consistency. With the growing role of direct access to physiotherapy-bypassing physician referral-physiotherapists must develop strong differential diagnostic skills to identify serious pathologies that mimic MSK disorders. This review aims to systematically map how RFs are defined in MSK clinical practice guidelines (CPGs), supporting the move toward a standardized definition for clinical and research use. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases. Included studies were CPGs and systematic reviews (SRs) of CPGs addressing MSK disorders and incorporating the RF concept. Data extraction followed a rigorous process, and RF definitions were synthesized and compared in table format. Results: Out of thirteen-thousand three-hundred and ninety-three articles identified, fourteen met inclusion criteria (seven CPGs and seven SRs of CPGs), spanning both physiotherapy and medical fields. All definitions described RFs as signs or symptoms indicating possible serious pathology requiring further investigation or referral. Some definitions referred broadly to "patterns of signs or symptoms", while others offered more precise criteria. Conclusions: This review highlights the lack of a standardized RF definition in MSK care, leading to inconsistencies in clinical decision-making and diagnosis. To improve patient safety and guide clinicians-especially in direct-access contexts-a unified, internationally recognized definition of RFs is needed in future guidelines.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Nichols JH, Smith AM, CB Jonsson (2025)

The Intersection of SARS-CoV-2 and Diabetes.

Microorganisms, 13(6):.

The interplay between comorbidities and viral infections is a critical factor that influences disease severity and outcomes. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one such comorbidity that significantly elevates the risk of severe viral infection from coronaviruses, namely, SARS-CoV-2. DM is characterized by either a lack of insulin production (type 1 diabetes) or insulin resistance (type 2 diabetes), both of which contribute to a state of hyperglycemia, or high blood sugar. Hyperglycemia significantly promotes chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and immune dysregulation, which put diabetics at an elevated risk of critical health outcomes. Additionally, diabetes is hypothesized to amplify viral titers during infection by promoting the expression of the viral entry receptor ACE2 and providing a favorable cellular energy environment for viral replication. This review focuses on explaining the mechanisms that link diabetics with more severe COVID-19 disease and exploring some of the mechanisms that contribute to the phenomenon where COVID-19 can promote new-onset diabetes. By highlighting the interconnections between diabetes and COVID-19, this review aims to emphasize the implications that the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has had on metabolic health.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Duan Q, Ai T, Ma Y, et al (2025)

Research Progress on the Application of Neutralizing Nanobodies in the Prevention and Treatment of Viral Infections.

Microorganisms, 13(6):.

Public health crises triggered by viral infections pose severe threats to individual health and disrupt global socioeconomic systems. Against the backdrop of global pandemics caused by highly infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and Ebola virus disease (EVD), the development of innovative prevention and treatment strategies has become a strategic priority in the field of biomedicine. Neutralizing antibodies, as biological agents, are increasingly recognized for their potential in infectious disease control. Among these, nanobodies (Nbs) derived from camelid heavy-chain antibodies exhibit remarkable technical advantages due to their unique structural features. Compared to traditional neutralizing antibodies, nanobodies offer significant cost-effectiveness in production and enable versatile administration routes (e.g., subcutaneous injection, oral delivery, or aerosol inhalation), making them particularly suitable for respiratory infection control and resource-limited settings. Furthermore, engineered modification strategies-including multivalent constructs, multi-epitope recognition designs, and fragment crystallizable (Fc) domain fusion-effectively enhance their neutralizing activity and suppress viral immune escape mechanisms. Breakthroughs have been achieved in combating pathogens such as the Ebola virus and SARS-CoV-2, with mechanisms involving the blockade of virus-host interactions, induction of viral particle disintegration, and enhancement of immune responses. This review comprehensively discusses the structural characteristics, high-throughput screening technologies, and engineering strategies of nanobodies, providing theoretical foundations for the development of novel antiviral therapeutics. These advances hold strategic significance for addressing emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Welc N, Frącz W, Olejniczak R, et al (2025)

Analysis of the Effect of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Syphilis in Susceptible Populations: Men Who Have Sex with Men, People Living with HIV, and Patients with Gestational and Congenital Syphilis-A Narrative Review.

Microorganisms, 13(6):.

The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a public health crisis that significantly impacted sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly syphilis. However, data on syphilis incidence during the pandemic remains inconsistent globally. Key groups affected include women of reproductive age, pregnant women, individuals living with HIV, and men who have sex with men (MSM). This paper reviews available literature from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to analyse the pandemic's influence on congenital and gestational syphilis, focusing on high-risk populations. We discuss the pandemic's impact on the incidence of gestational and congenital syphilis, including changes in screening and treatment protocols. Additionally, we examine alterations in syphilis prevalence and testing among people living with HIV and MSM, including implications observed in blood donors. The findings underscore the consequences of impaired STI diagnostics for public health. We emphasise the need for uninterrupted access to diagnostics and treatment during public health crises. To prevent rising syphilis rates post-pandemic, it is crucial to implement robust education and accessible testing measures.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Alford BS, Hughes CM, Gilpin DF, et al (2025)

Monitoring Antimicrobial Resistance in Care Homes Through Wastewater Surveillance - A Scoping Review.

The Journal of hospital infection pii:S0195-6701(25)00183-5 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance poses a growing threat, especially in care homes where older residents are particularly vulnerable due to frequent antibiotic use and co-morbidities. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a growing focus on wastewater surveillance for detecting and monitoring pathogens in healthcare settings.

AIM: This study followed the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review framework to map the extent of available literature on wastewater-based epidemiological studies addressing antimicrobial resistance in care homes for older adults.

METHODS: Six electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Google Scholar) were searched from date of inception until 26[th] August 2024. The search strategy employed variations of the keywords; 'antimicrobial resistance,' 'wastewater-based epidemiology,' and 'care homes for older adults.' Studies were screened based on eligibility criteria, with data extracted by one researcher. Another researcher reviewed the charted data and resolved any queries. The search identified 83 studies, from which 11 studies, conducted between 2015 and 2024, were included.

FINDINGS: The studies used grab or composite sampling, combined with culture-based methods for bacterial identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction and whole genome sequencing. Enterobacterales, including Escherichia coli and Klebsiella spp., were the most frequently detected, with high resistance rates, especially to some penicillins and cephalosporins.

CONCLUSION: Despite the small sample sizes reported in this review, wastewater-based epidemiology shows promise in monitoring antibiotic-resistant bacteria in care home wastewaters, offering insights into trends and genetic diversity, with the potential to inform public health strategies and antibiotic stewardship programmes.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Lu Y, Qian C, Huang Y, et al (2025)

Advancing mRNA vaccines: A comprehensive review of design, delivery, and efficacy in infectious diseases.

International journal of biological macromolecules pii:S0141-8130(25)06056-8 [Epub ahead of print].

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the transformative potential of messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines in biomedicine, thanks to their rapid design, scalable production, and strong immunogenicity. Nonetheless, their widespread adoption remains hindered by challenges related to sequence optimization, delivery efficiency, thermostability, and safety. This review systematically summarizes recent progress in mRNA vaccine development, including advances in molecular engineering, delivery platforms, adjuvant properties, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven predictive modeling. It covers codon optimization, nucleoside modification, untranslated region (UTR) engineering, and novel structural formats such as self-amplifying and circular mRNAs. The review also compares various delivery systems-including lipid nanoparticles, cationic polymers, and virus-like particles-focusing on their physicochemical characteristics and translational applicability. Particular attention is given to the intrinsic adjuvant properties of mRNA molecules and their delivery vehicles, as well as strategies for incorporating exogenous adjuvants to modulate immune responses. Furthermore, the article provides a succinct overview of key preclinical and clinical advancements in mRNA vaccines targeting major infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, influenza, RSV, rabies) and tumor-associated antigens (e.g., HPV). This review is among the first to highlight breakthroughs in the application of AI for antigen screening, mRNA sequence optimization, lipid component selection, and vaccine stability prediction. Finally, the review addresses current platform limitations and proposes future directions for interdisciplinary collaboration, offering both theoretical insights and practical recommendations for the safe and effective implementation of next-generation mRNA vaccines.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Lenz C, Song M, Bandara S, et al (2025)

Implementation of Jail and Prison-Based Medication Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder Programs: A Narrative Synthesis.

Medical care research and review : MCRR [Epub ahead of print].

Provision of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) programs in carceral settings is critical to reducing overdose during the high-risk period following release from incarceration. Efforts to expand carceral MOUD programs have increased in recent years. We conducted a narrative review to synthesize evidence on the implementation of MOUD in U.S. carceral facilities. We analyzed 36 studies from 2019 to 2023 using the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment framework. Findings highlight that MOUD in carceral settings requires significant resources, infrastructure, and staffing. MOUD diversion is a common concern, with program responses varying widely. Stigma against MOUD remains a challenge, particularly when treating pregnant people with OUD. Effective coordination between carceral and community stakeholders is critical for MOUD implementation and continuity of treatment postrelease. COVID-19 spurred innovation, increasing telehealth in carceral MOUD programs. Future research should explore MOUD program transition from early adoption to wide-scale implementation, considering external factors, sustainability, and evolving policies.

RevDate: 2025-06-29
CmpDate: 2025-06-26

Arrè V, De Luca R, Mrmić S, et al (2025)

Gastrointestinal inflammation and cancer: viral and bacterial interplay.

Gut microbes, 17(1):2519703.

Gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation and malignancies arise from complex interactions between the host's immune responses and microbial pathogens. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), and Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) contribute to chronic GI inflammation, immune evasion, and tumorigenesis through distinct but interconnected mechanisms. EBV, a widespread herpesvirus, establishes a latent infection in B cells and epithelial cells. It promotes gastric carcinogenesis through immune modulation, epigenetic changes, and viral microRNAs (miRNAs). H. pylori, a gastric carcinogen, induces chronic gastritis and gastric cancer (GC) through Cytotoxin-associated gene A (CagA) and Vacuolating cytotoxin gene A (VacA) virulence factors. These factors disrupt host immune responses and enhance oncogenic signaling pathways. Recent evidence also links SARS-CoV-2 to gut dysbiosis and inflammatory responses. It worsens immune dysfunction and hence potentially impacting GI pathology. EBV and H. pylori co-infections may synergistically amplify inflammatory signaling, creating a tumor-promoting microenvironment. This review emphasizes the molecular mechanisms by which these pathogens contribute to GI diseases, focusing on their immune evasion strategies and potential therapeutic targets. Understanding these interactions is essential for developing targeted interventions for infection-driven GI malignancies.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Shitaye G, Ventserova N, D'Abrosca G, et al (2025)

The role of intrinsically disordered regions of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid and non-structural protein 1 proteins.

Frontiers in chemistry, 13:1597656.

Virus survival inside the host cell depends on the intricate mechanisms that recruit proteins involved in the arms race. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) proteome exhibits important levels of structural order. However, some of the SARS-CoV-2 proteins, such as the Nucleocapsid (N) and Non-structural protein 1 (Nsp1), contain a considerably significant amount of intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) that play indispensable roles in the intra-viral and virus-host interaction. Here, focusing on proteins that contain a relevant percentage of IDRs, we discuss experimental and computational studies sought to support IDRs as a key player in the interplay with ordered domains, the biological role as potential origin for variants of SARS-CoV-2, and their association with virus transmissibility. Furthermore, we also highlight the potential involvement of IDRs in the viral-host protein interaction and host cellular machinery. Thus, shading lights on the dark proteome of the virus and looking for therapeutic approaches beyond the classic structure-function paradigm may contribute to the efforts sparking the quest for therapeutics.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Yousufzai W, Heo A, Gu K, et al (2025)

First episode of psychiatric and neuropsychiatric disease among patients infected with COVID-19: A scoping review.

PCN reports : psychiatry and clinical neurosciences, 4(2):e70146.

This scoping review aims to examine the frequency and prevalence of neuropsychiatric disorders reported in patients infected with coronavirus disease 2019, and the mechanisms by which these develop during and post infection. A systematic search using relevant search terms and key words was done on six electronic databases of literature on neuropsychiatric conditions post-coronavirus disease 2019 infection from 2020 to 2023. Data were extracted following Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines, focusing on key findings, intervention details, and outcomes. We included 333 studies in the review. Studies indicated an elevated risk of neuropsychiatric disorders post-coronavirus disease 2019, with some risks remaining high 2 years after diagnosis. A significant prevalence of depressive, psychotic, and anxiety disorders, as well as post-traumatic stress symptoms were noted among coronavirus disease 2019 survivors. There was increased prevalence of insomnia and other sleep disturbances, mild to severe cognitive dysfunction, and eating disorders. Coronavirus disease 2019 infection is associated with a significant risk of developing various neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, depressive disorders, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and cognitive dysfunction. Long-term monitoring and early interventions are essential to mitigate these risks and improve patient outcomes.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-26

Rocha DM, Pedroso AO, Menegueti MG, et al (2025)

Predictors of Anxiety, Depression, and Stress in Long COVID: Systematic Review of Prevalence.

International journal of environmental research and public health, 22(6):.

Anxiety, depression, and stress are prevalent psychosocial manifestations in Long COVID, and understanding their global impact can guide safe, effective, and evidence-based interventions. This study reviewed the literature to analyze the prevalence indicators and predictors of anxiety, depression, or stress experienced by adults and older adults with Long COVID. This systematic prevalence review was conducted using the databases MEDLINE via PubMed[®], CINAHL-EBSCO, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, LILACS, and BDENF. Observational studies that assessed anxiety, depression, or perceived stress in adults and older adults with Long COVID were included, with no restrictions on time or language. Two reviewers independently conducted the selection process. Full texts were analyzed for their eligibility potential. Methodological quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies. Ten observational studies with moderate methodological quality were included. Anxiety and depression were the most prevalent psychosocial symptoms in Long COVID, reported in mild, moderate, and severe cases of COVID-19 infection. Prevalence rates reached up to 47.8% for anxiety, 37.3% for depression, and 23% for stress. The combined analysis revealed a pooled prevalence of 15.3% (95% CI: 10.8% to 20.2%). Being female, having pre-existing mental disorders or associated clinical comorbidities, experiencing severe infection in the acute phase, and receiving intensive care were predictors of greater mental burden. The experience of anxiety, depression, and stress in prolonged COVID-19 was reported in countries with different income levels and was disproportionately experienced, especially by women and individuals with associated clinical conditions or psychopathological comorbidities.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-26

Bondanini G, Giovanelli C, Mucci N, et al (2025)

The Dual Impact of Digital Connectivity: Balancing Productivity and Well-Being in the Modern Workplace.

International journal of environmental research and public health, 22(6):.

BACKGROUND: Digital connectivity is essential in modern work environments, enhancing productivity and communication. However, its rapid expansion post-COVID-19 raises concerns about burnout, digital fatigue, and work-related stress.

OBJECTIVE: This PRISMA-based systematic review examines the benefits and challenges of digital work, assessing its impact on occupational health and proposing mitigation strategies.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Cochrane Library identified 40 peer-reviewed studies published since 2020, focusing on digital connectivity, remote work, and employee well-being. Studies on purely technological aspects were excluded.

RESULTS: While digital tools improve efficiency and flexibility, they also increase workload, cognitive overload, and stress. Prolonged screen exposure contributes to mental exhaustion and sleep disturbances. Limited digital infrastructure further exacerbates productivity barriers.

CONCLUSIONS: Digital connectivity offers both opportunities and risks. Organizations should implement structured policies such as offline hours, digital detox initiatives, and mental health support to sustain productivity and well-being. Future research should explore sector-specific interventions and long-term impacts of digital work practices.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Pálok D, Kiss B, Élő LG, et al (2025)

Enhancing Safety and Quality of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation During Coronavirus Pandemic.

Journal of clinical medicine, 14(12):.

Background: Professional knowledge and experience of healthcare organization went through continuous change and development with the progression of COVID-19 pandemic waves. However, carefully developed guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) remained largely unchanged regardless of the epidemic situation, with the largest change being a more prominent bioethical approach. It would be possible to further improve the quality of CPR by systematic data collection, the facilitation of prospective studies, and further development of the methodology based on this evidence, as well as by providing information and developing provisions on interventions with expected poor outcomes, and ultimately by refusing resuscitation. Methods: This study involved the critical collection and analysis of literary data originating from the Web of Science and PubMed databases concerning bioethical aspects and the efficacy of CPR during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: According to the current professional recommendation of the European Resuscitation Council (ERC), CPR should be initiated immediately in case of cardiac arrest in the absence of an exclusionary circumstance. One such circumstance is explicit refusal of CPR by a well-informed patient, which in practice takes the form of a prior declaration. ERC prescribes the following conjunctive conditions for do-not-attempt CPR (DNACPR) declarations: present, real, and applicable. It is recommended to take the declaration as a part of complex end-of-life planning, with the corresponding documentation available in an electronic database. The pandemic has brought significant changes in resuscitation practice at both lay and professional levels as well. Incidence of out-of-hospital resuscitation (OHCA) did not differ compared to the previous period, while cardiac deaths in public places almost halved during the epidemic (p < 0.001) as did the use of AEDs (p = 0.037). The number of resuscitations performed by bystanders and by the emergency medical service (EMS) also showed a significant decrease (p = 0.001), and the most important interventions (defibrillation, first adrenaline time) suffered a significant delay. Secondary survival until hospital discharge thus decreased by 50% during the pandemic period. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic provided a significant impetus to the revision of guidelines. While detailed methodology has changed only slightly compared to the previous procedures, the DNACPR declaration regarding self-determination is mentioned in the context of complex end-of-life planning. The issue of safe environment has come to the fore for both lay and trained resuscitators. Future Directions: Prospective evaluation of standardized methods can further improve the patient's autonomy and quality of life. Since clinical data are controversial, further prospective controlled studies are needed to evaluate the real hazards of aerosol-generating procedures.

RevDate: 2025-06-28

Tsimtsiou Z, Pagkozidis I, Pappa A, et al (2025)

What Do We Know About Contemporary Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Training Curricula in Health Workers? A Rapid Scoping Review.

Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(12):.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Despite growing emphasis on quality and safety in healthcare, there remains a limited understanding of how Quality Improvement and Patient Safety (QI/PS) training for health workers has evolved in response to global events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the WHO Global Patient Safety Action Plan. This rapid scoping review aimed to not only identify existing curricula but also uncover trends, innovation gaps, and global inequities in QI/PS education-providing timely insights for reshaping future training strategies.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE and Scopus for English-language studies published between January 2020 and April 2024, describing QI and/or PS curricula across graduate, postgraduate, and continuing education levels. All healthcare worker groups were eligible, with no geographic limitations. Two reviewers conducted independent screening and data extraction; a third verified the results.

RESULTS: Among 3290 records, 74 curricula met inclusion criteria, with a majority originating from the US (58, 78.4%) and targeting physicians-especially residents and fellows (43/46, 93.5%). Only 27% of curricula were multidisciplinary. While traditional didactic (66.2%) and interactive (73%) approaches remained prevalent, curricula launched after 2020 introduced novel formats such as Massive Open Online Courses and gamification, with long-term programs uniformly leveraging web-based platforms. Common thematic content included Root Cause Analysis, Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles, QI tools, communication skills, and incident reporting. English-language peer-reviewed published literature indicated a marked lack of structured QI/PS training in Europe, Asia, and Africa.

CONCLUSIONS: This review reveals both an uneven development and fragmentation in global QI/PS training efforts, alongside emerging opportunities catalyzed by digital transformation and pandemic-era innovation. The findings highlight a critical gap: while interest in QI/PS is growing, scalable, inclusive, and evidence-based curricula remain largely concentrated in a few high-income countries. By mapping these disparities and innovations, this review provides actionable direction for advancing more equitable and modern QI/PS education worldwide, whilst showcasing the need to systematically delve into QI/PS training in underrepresented regions.

RevDate: 2025-06-28
CmpDate: 2025-06-26

Akher SA, Wang KY, Hall K, et al (2025)

Harnessing Transient Expression Systems with Plant Viral Vectors for the Production of Biopharmaceuticals in Nicotiana benthamiana.

International journal of molecular sciences, 26(12):.

Plant Molecular Farming (PMF) capitalizes on the unique properties of plants as bioreactors to efficiently produce valuable proteins, pharmaceuticals, and enzymes. This review emphasizes the critical role of transient expression systems, particularly in Nicotiana benthamiana, due to its susceptibility to various pathogens. Viral vector-based transient expression has proven essential during health emergencies like COVID-19, enabling rapid recombinant protein production. The review also evaluates different transient expression platforms and highlights their applications in biopharmaceutical production, education, synthetic biology, and gene editing. Advances in viral vector modification, hydroponics, and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) are presented as transformative innovations enhancing scalability and regulatory compliance. Furthermore, glycoengineering advancements broaden the range of producible biopharmaceuticals, improving global medication access. By exploring these advancements, this review underscores the vast potential of transient expression systems to meet dynamic scientific and market demands, positioning PMF as a vital component in modern biotechnology.

RevDate: 2025-07-01

Ertural B, Çiçek BN, IA Kurnaz (2025)

RNA Therapeutics: Focus on Antisense Oligonucleotides in the Nervous System.

Biomolecules & therapeutics, 33(4):572-581.

RNA therapeutics represent a disruptive technology that has transformed drug discovery and manufacturing, gaining significant prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic. RNA therapeutics encompass diverse molecules like antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), RNA aptamers, and messenger RNAs (mRNAs), which can function through different mechanisms. RNA therapeutics are increasingly used to treat various diseases, including neurological disorders. For example, ASO therapies such as nusinersen for spinal muscular atrophy and eteplirsen for Duchenne muscular dystrophy are successful applications of RNA-based treatment. Emerging ASO treatments for Huntington's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis are also promising, with ongoing clinical trials demonstrating significant reductions in disease-associated proteins. Still, delivery of these molecules remains a pivotal challenge in RNA therapeutics, especially for ASOs in penetrating the blood-brain barrier to target neurological disorders effectively. Nanoparticle-based formulations have emerged as leading strategies to enhance RNA stability, reduce immunogenicity, and improve cellular uptake. Despite these advances, significant hurdles remain, including optimizing pharmacokinetics, minimizing off-target effects, and ensuring sustained therapeutic efficacy. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to accommodate the unique challenges of RNA-based therapies, including ASOs with efforts underway to establish comprehensive guidelines for RNA therapeutics, yet there are also sustainable manufacturing issues that need to be considered for long-term feasibility. By addressing these challenges, RNA therapeutics hold immense potential to revolutionize treatment paradigms for neurological disorders. Looking forward, the future of RNA therapeutics in neurology appears promising but requires continued interdisciplinary collaboration and technological innovation.

RevDate: 2025-07-01
CmpDate: 2025-07-01

Srinivasan S, Patel S, Hassan T, et al (2025)

Lessons from the pandemic: a retrospective study and literature comparative review of provider and patient experiences with telemedicine in spine care.

Journal of neurosurgery. Spine, 43(1):122-137.

OBJECTIVE: Telemedicine use for patient care in spine surgery drastically increased after the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors aimed to examine factors influencing telemedicine utilization during this period by comparing perspectives from patients and spine surgeons to better guide the use of telehealth beyond the pandemic.

METHODS: Between June 2021 and December 2021, a survey was administered to spine care patients receiving virtual visits at a single multidisciplinary spine center to assess their telemedicine experience, including visit quality, overall communication, and technical challenges. Furthermore, a systematic review using the PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase and Web of Science databases in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines was conducted to identify survey studies of spine surgeons and patients assessing telemedicine experiences.

RESULTS: A total of 407 patients were included in our survey; 65.6% were female, and 82.8% were at least 55 years of age. Most patients were White (86.2%) and had at least a bachelor's degree (81.6%). The majority of respondents (96.8%) reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their telemedicine visits. Explanations at the end of visit (p < 0.001), time spent during the visit (p < 0.001), and absence of technical issues (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with increased patient satisfaction. Barriers to access such as education level, age, or race were not significantly associated with patient satisfaction (p > 0.05). The authors also performed a systematic review that identified 10 studies on patient attitudes toward telemedicine with 3569 respondents in North America and 10 surveys of spine surgeons with 3043 respondents internationally. Most telemedicine visits were pre- or postoperative (56.3%, 1914/3399; range 42%-95%), and the majority of patients reported traveling less than 25 miles for in-person visits (63.3%, 815/1287; range 57%-68%). Nine patient studies revealed a high patient satisfaction level with telemedicine (79.7%, 2248/2821; range 36%-93%). The virtual physical examination was of greater concern for surgeons (48.6%, 433/891; range 10%-91%) than for patients (15.5%, 156/1007; range 2%-74%).

CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the high level of patient satisfaction with telemedicine in spine care, emphasizing factors including clear explanations, sufficient time during visits, and minimal technical issues. Despite concerns about the virtual physical examination, especially among surgeons, telemedicine was effectively utilized for pre- and postoperative care. Telemedicine can continue to play a valuable role in spine care beyond the pandemic, provided that technical challenges are addressed, and communication remains clear and thorough.

RevDate: 2025-06-30
CmpDate: 2025-06-30

Yang OO (2025)

The immunopathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection: Overview of lessons learned in the first 5 years.

Journal of immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950), 214(6):1095-1104.

This review provides a broad overview of lessons learned in the five years since COVID-19 was identified. It is a bimodal disease, starting with an initially virus-driven phase, followed by resolution or ensuing inappropriate immune activation causing severe inflammation that is no longer strictly virus dependent. Humoral immunity is beneficial for preventing or attenuating the early stage, without benefit once the later stage begins. Neutralizing antibodies elicited by natural infection or vaccination are short-lived and highly vulnerable to viral sequence variation. By contrast, cellular immunity, particularly the CD8+ T cell arm, has a role in preventing or attenuating severe disease, is far less susceptible to viral variation, and is longer-lived than antibodies. Finally, an ill-defined phenomenon of prolonged symptoms after acute infection, termed "long COVID," is poorly understood but may involve various immunologic defects that are hyperactivating or immunosuppressive. Remaining issues include needing to better understand the immune dysregulation of severe disease to allow more tailored therapeutic interventions, developing antibody strategies that cope with the viral spike sequence variability, prolonging vaccine efficacy, and unraveling the mechanisms of long COVID to design therapeutic approaches.

RevDate: 2025-07-01
CmpDate: 2025-06-29

Velasco Arias JM, Peres AM, Nunes MGJ, et al (2025)

Essential competencies required of nurse managers in times of COVID-19: A scoping review.

International nursing review, 72(3):e13070.

AIM: To identify the essential competencies required of nurse managers in healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: Nurse managers play a vital role in healthcare services organization, requiring a diverse set of competencies. The increasing occurrence of epidemics in recent decades underscores the importance of understanding these competencies in pivotal junctures. The challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic present valuable opportunities to recognize the competencies of nurse managers and guide their responsiveness in addressing future health crises.

METHODS: A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines was conducted. A comprehensive search was conducted across six databases (LILACS, BDENF, EMBASE, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science). Results were categorized according to the nurse manager competencies model by the American Organization for Nursing Leadership and were analyzed using the competing values framework model.

RESULTS: Out of 2033 potentially relevant sources identified, 17 studies met inclusion criteria. A total of 52 competencies were identified and categorized into four thematic categories: (1) the ability to collaborate in times of crisis; (2) maintaining control during a crisis; (3) adapting to changes caused by the crisis; and (4) preserving competitiveness through the crisis.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight communication, decision-making, training, adaptability to change, and leadership as essential competencies required of nurse managers to address crises, such as pandemics.

This body of knowledge can serve as a reference point to enhance the response of nurse managers in the face of future health crisis scenarios. Additionally, it can serve as a framework for healthcare organizations to develop or improve their crisis management training programs.

RevDate: 2025-06-30
CmpDate: 2025-06-30

Stephens J, Ellis A, Roberts S, et al (2025)

Disordered eating instruments in the pregnancy cohort: a systematic review update.

Eating disorders, 33(4):512-536.

Pregnancy represents a crucial timepoint to screen for disordered eating due to the significant adverse impact on the woman and her infant. There has been an increased interest in disordered eating in pregnancy since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disproportionately affected the mental health of pregnant women compared to the general population. This systematic review is an update to a previous review aiming to explore current psychometric evidence for any new pregnancy-specific instruments and other measures of disordered eating developed for non-pregnant populations. Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, ProQuest, PsycInfo, CINAHL, Scopus, MEDLINE, and Embase from April 2019 to February 2024. A total of 20 citations met criteria for inclusion, with most studies of reasonable quality. Fourteen psychometric instruments were identified, including two new pregnancy-specific screening instruments. Overall, preliminary psychometric evidence for the PEBS, DEAPS, and EDE-PV was promising. There is an ongoing need for validation in different samples, study designs, settings, and administration methods are required. Similar to the original review on this topic, we did not find evidence to support a gold standard recommendation.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Daovisan H, Sathiyamas J, Choowan P, et al (2025)

Rethinking Post-COVID-19 Behavioral Science: Old Questions, New Insights.

Behavioral sciences (Basel, Switzerland), 15(6):.

The COVID-19 pandemic has radically transformed behavioral science research. While many disciplines have been shown increasing attention in the existing literature, behavioral science uniquely revisits old questions to develop new theoretical perspectives for the post-COVID-19 era. Our systematic search of the literature allowed us to map 505 records that met our criteria, found across 102 papers; from these, we chose 11 articles published between 2021 and 2024. The focus of this review is on examining old questions while providing fresh insights into social, psychological, cognitive, healthcare, and human behavior. The findings emphasize the relevance of the TPB, the HBM, SCT, and the COM-B model, which effectively provide new theoretical insights into post-COVID-19 research. This study shows that theory-informed practices have been integrated into behavioral science research since the COVID-19 pandemic. Practical applications depend on these insights, which can inform evidence-based practice of planned behavior in healthcare policy, academic research, and community practice.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Hemat Jouy S, Tonchev H, Mostafa SM, et al (2025)

Post-COVID Metabolic Fallout: A Growing Threat of New-Onset and Exacerbated Diabetes.

Biomedicines, 13(6):.

Emerging evidence highlights the profound and lasting impact of severe illnesses such as COVID-19, particularly among individuals with underlying comorbidities. Patients with pre-existing conditions like diabetes mellitus (DM) are disproportionately affected, facing heightened risks of both disease exacerbation and the onset of new complications. Notably, the convergence of advanced age and DM has been consistently associated with poor COVID-19 outcomes. However, the long-term metabolic consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially its role in disrupting glucose homeostasis and potentially triggering or worsening DM, remain incompletely understood. This review synthesizes current clinical and experimental findings to clarify the bidirectional relationship between COVID-19 and diabetes. We critically examine literature reporting deterioration of glycemic control, onset of hyperglycemia in previously non-diabetic individuals, and worsening of metabolic parameters in diabetic patients after infection. Furthermore, we explore proposed mechanistic pathways, including pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and immune-mediated damage, that may underpin the development or progression of DM in the post-COVID setting. Collectively, this work underscores the urgent need for continued research and clinical vigilance in managing metabolic health in COVID-19 survivors.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Zhu Y, Zhang Y, Shao J, et al (2025)

Glucocorticoid-Mediated Extracellular Matrix Regulation: Implications for Precision Therapy.

Biomedicines, 13(6):.

Glucocorticoids (GCs) have revolutionized the treatment of multidisciplinary diseases. Recently, its role in severe infectious diseases has been revisited and discussed since the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous research and discussions have focused more on their anti-inflammatory effects and impact on the immune system, with limited study on other aspects of their action and mechanisms. In recent years, it has been discovered that glucocorticoids can regulate the extracellular matrix by influencing the cellular microenvironment and processes such as fibrosis, thereby exerting regulatory effects on diseases. This article summarizes current research on GC-mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. It emphasizes the dual role of the ECM as a therapeutic target and a source of biomarkers, and identifies molecular mechanisms and potential biomarkers for precise glucocorticoid therapy, such as type I collagen (PRO-C1), type III collagen (PRO-C3), fibrillin-C (FBN-C), and type III collagen degradation (C3M). These findings may also contribute to the development of more precise new drugs.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Doskas T, Vavougios GD, Kormas C, et al (2025)

Neurocognitive Impairment After COVID-19: Mechanisms, Phenotypes, and Links to Alzheimer's Disease.

Brain sciences, 15(6):.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: SARS-CoV-2 can affect the central nervous system directly or indirectly. AD shares several similarities with long COVID cognitive impairment on a molecular and imaging level, as well as common risk factors. The objective of this review is to evaluate the incidence of post-acute COVID-19 cognitive impairment. Secondarily, we aim to determine if neuroinflammation in COVID-19 survivors may be associated with the onset of neurological disease, with a focus on Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS: literature search up to March 2025 on the prevalence of cognitive deficits in COVID-19 survivors, underlying pathophysiology and associations with neurological disorders.

RESULTS: a wide array of neuropsychiatric manifestations is associated with COVID-19; executive function, memory, and attention are the most frequently reported neurocognitive deficits, regardless of COVID-19 severity. There are associations between the risks for cognitive deficits post-infection with the age of the patients and the severity of the disease. Increasing evidence suggests that neurocognitive deficits are associated with the onset of neurological and neuropsychiatric disease in COVID-19 survivors.

CONCLUSIONS: clinicians caring for COVID-19 survivors should actively investigate neurocognitive sequelae, particularly for patients with increased risk for cognitive deficits.

RevDate: 2025-06-26
CmpDate: 2025-06-26

Ponce A, Flores-Maldonado C, RG Contreras (2025)

Cardiac Glycosides: From Natural Defense Molecules to Emerging Therapeutic Agents.

Biomolecules, 15(6):.

Cardiac glycosides (CGs), a class of plant- and animal-derived compounds historically used to treat heart failure, have garnered renewed interest for their diverse pharmacological properties beyond Na[+]/K[+]-ATPase (NKA) inhibition. Recent studies reveal that CGs modulate key signaling pathways-such as NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, JAK/STAT, and MAPK-affecting processes central to cancer, viral infections, immune regulation, and neurodegeneration. In cancer, CGs induce multiple forms of regulated cell death, including apoptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, and immunogenic cell death, while also inhibiting angiogenesis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and cell cycle progression. They demonstrate broad-spectrum antiviral activity by disrupting viral entry, replication, and mRNA processing in viruses such as HSV, HIV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2. Immunologically, CGs regulate Th17 differentiation via RORγ signaling, although both inhibitory and agonistic effects have been reported. In the nervous system, CGs modulate neuroinflammation, support synaptic plasticity, and improve cognitive function in models of Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. Despite their therapeutic potential, clinical translation is hindered by narrow therapeutic indices and systemic toxicity. Advances in drug design and nanocarrier-based delivery are critical to unlocking CGs' full potential as multi-target agents for complex diseases. This review synthesizes the current knowledge on the emerging roles of CGs and highlights strategies for their safe and effective repurposing.

RevDate: 2025-06-26

Argyrou M, Pitsillou E, Hung A, et al (2025)

Insights into the pathogenic mechanisms associated with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.

Journal of structural biology, 217(3):108229 pii:S1047-8477(25)00064-4 [Epub ahead of print].

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the pathogenic agent responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, uses the trimeric spike protein to gain entry into the host cell. Structural studies have revealed that the spike protein is comprised of the S1 and S2 subunits. The S1 subunit of the spike protein contains the receptor-binding domain (RBD), which binds to the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor. The interaction between the RBD and ACE2 facilitates membrane fusion and host cell infection. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein also contains a unique insertion of four amino acids that results in the 682-RRAR↓S-686 polybasic furin cleavage motif at the boundary of the S1 and S2 subunits. The furin cleavage motif contributes to the high infectivity and transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular interactions of the spike protein, with a specific focus on the RBD and furin cleavage site. In addition to examining the binding characteristics with ACE2, the interactions with alternative receptors, such as neuropilin-1 (NRP1) and the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) are highlighted. The ability of the spike protein to bind alternative receptors and host factors has been linked to the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and the persistence of symptoms in the post COVID-19 condition. Furthermore, we examine the impact of spike protein mutations on receptor affinity and disease severity. SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, with variants remaining an ongoing threat to public health. Understanding these molecular interactions is critical for the development of novel therapeutic interventions.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Ali SB, C Gurnari (2025)

Infections in VEXAS syndrome: a systematic review of the literature.

Current research in translational medicine, 73(4):103524 pii:S2452-3186(25)00033-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Vacuolation, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, somatic (VEXAS) syndrome is a multisystem disease for which chronic immunosuppression is needed. Opportunistic infections are common; however, a clear prophylaxis regimen is not defined. A systematic review of the literature was undertaken. Six publications with 123 patients were evaluated. Of 86 patients with demographic data; most were males (n = 85, 98.8 %) and median age was 73 years. UBA1 mutational status was reported in 80 patients: p.Met41Thr (n = 43, 53.8 %), p.Met41Val (n = 17, 21.3 %) and p.Met41Leu (n = 12, 15.0 %) were most common. In these patients, 48 (60 %) had underlying myelodysplastic syndrome. Many of the patients had multiple hospitalizations. Infections were reported as follows: COVID19 (n = 20), Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP) (n = 16), nontuberculous mycobacterium (NTM) species (n = 16), Enterobacteriaceae species (n = 14), Legionella species (n = 13), Varicella Zoster virus (n = 11) and Herpes Simplex Virus (n = 8) infections, respectively. Daily prednisolone dose was at, or greater than 10 mg and overall median long term steroid treatment duration was 3.1 years. Notably, for NTM the median daily prednisolone dose was 12.5 mg. Median prednisolone dosing for PJP was only reported in one of the publications, comprising six patients, at 17 mg per day. Where data was available, 45 of the 95 patients (47.3 %) were deceased at last follow-up. Of the 45 deaths, 32 (71.1 %) were attributed to the intercurrent infection. In summary, opportunistic infections are commonly reported in VEXAS syndrome. Prophylaxis for such infections remains paramount but no clear consensus on recommendations exists, highlighting the need for prospective studies. Moreover, furthering our understanding of pathophysiology of VEXAS syndrome and impairment in both innate and humoral immunity may clarify its contribution to infections in addition to high background immunosuppressive therapies.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Hosseini H, Hosseini F, Bolourian S, et al (2025)

Formulation of bioactive-loaded chewing gums; techno-functional and health-promoting attributes along with in-vitro and in-vivo release studies.

Advances in colloid and interface science, 343:103583 pii:S0001-8686(25)00194-0 [Epub ahead of print].

The approved health and functional influences of the bioactive compounds has caused the development of many products delivering them to human body. Chewing gum (CWG) matrix could be one of the best novel delivering systems, as (i) it is a pleasant product for consumers, especially children, (ii) primarily protects the sensitive bioactives, (iii) originally provides positive effects on the memory, alertness, weight and stress, (iv) its application is easily possible at any time and place, (v) is commonly remained within oral cavity and chewed for a varied duration before throwing out, and (vi) it is possible to design a broad range of delivery profiles by controlling the type and content of the other ingredients, encapsulation of bioactives, and changing the production procedure. Therefore, this review is aimed to focus on the practical applications of the bioactive-containing CWG in improving our health (e.g., saliva stimulation, supplying mineral, vitamin, and antioxidant, improved cognitive function, smoking cessation, and preventing diseases e.g., oral infections, dental caries, enamel demineralization, formation of calculus, extrinsic tooth stain and plaque, gastrointestinal (GI) problems, cancer, Covid-19, etc.). The relevant studies confirmed that due to compliance with pharmaceutical standards, spontaneously providing both systemic and local delivery, fast onset of action, limited first pass metabolism, resistance to enzymes and acids, adequate stability, enhancing cognitive function and alertness and a lot more, it can be imagined for CWG to be much more popular to the market and patients in the near future. Nevertheless, more in-vivo and clinical studies should be established to monitor the release behavior of different bioactives from CWG into the biological media as affected by various factors. Finally, well-designed/documented studies for the optimized functional/medicinal CWG are commercially available, providing the desired health effects besides considering the consumer concerns, namely well organoleptic characteristics, practical efficiency, reasonable price and application of eco-friendly ingredients, especially gum base, as possible.

RevDate: 2025-06-25
CmpDate: 2025-06-25

Viniegra RFS, AG da Silva-Junior (2025)

Resilience and vulnerability in women's health care during the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review.

Ciencia & saude coletiva, 30(6):e03792025.

This study seeks to identify the concept of resilience and reflect on factor that made women's heath vulnerable and protected (at personal level and in health services) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is an integrative review of the literature, carried out in the SciELO, BVS, PubMed and LILACS databases, using the descriptors resilience, women's health, gynecology, obstetrics, COVID-19 and pandemic, covering the years 2020 to 2022, in Portuguese and English. 43 articles were included and analyzed in 4 thematic areas: concept of resilience, impacts of the pandemic on health services, stressors and personal resilience factors, and impacts of the pandemic on women' lives. Highlights difficulties in adapting the health network to the crisis stand out, as well as losses in access to services and information, leading to physical and mental harm, especially for the most vulnerable population. Factors that promote resilience were physical activity, interpersonal support, routine, education, income and maintenance of some services. Resilience in healthcare is a new, complex and promising field, which should be encouraged, as it contributes to strategies for improving and adapting healthcare systems and people's lives, preventively, during and after crises.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Torri F, Schirinzi E, Fontanelli L, et al (2025)

Telemedicine and remote monitoring in neuromuscular diseases: Challenges and opportunities.

Journal of neuromuscular diseases [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Telemedicine, the application of those information technologies to remotely provide health services either for synchronously catching or asynchronous monitoring patient medical data, has shown a growing and widespread application in several chronic diseases, and, especially during and after COVID-19 pandemics, also in neuromuscular diseases.

OBJECTIVE: this review aims at providing an updated overview on the application of telemedicine and telemonitoring tools in neuromuscular diseases, in clinical practice, research and trials.

METHODS: a literature search was conducted on PubMed using keywords regarding telemedicine applications and several neuromuscular diseases, including papers up to May 2024.

CONCLUSIONS: several tools have been developed and tested in myopathies, motoneuron diseases, myasthenia gravis and peripheral neuropathies, providing monitoring, assistance, and rehabilitation protocols for such frail population, for which obtaining real life data remotely can represent a concrete advantage in clinical trials and clinical practice. Although several barriers in the implementation of telemedicine in NMD still need to be overcome, there is evidence for both clinicians and patients showing positive acceptance and satisfaction on the use of remote supports, regarding them as confident outcome measures of quality of life in view of a more general concept of e-health solutions in routine medical care.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Qian Q, Fan G, Yang W, et al (2025)

Advances in Diagnostic Techniques for Influenza Virus Infection: A Comprehensive Review.

Tropical medicine and infectious disease, 10(6):.

Influenza poses a significant global health burden due to its high transmissibility, antigenic variability, and substantial morbidity. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has further complicated influenza dynamics, highlighting the need for rapid, accurate, and accessible diagnostics. This review comprehensively summarized the advancements in influenza virus (IFV) detection, from conventional methods like viral culture and serology to modern molecular techniques, including CRISPR-based systems, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and biosensors. We analyze the sensitivity, specificity, and applicability of these methods and emphasize their roles in clinical and public health settings. While traditional techniques remain valuable for strain characterization, novel technologies like CRISPR and portable biosensors offer rapid, low-resource solutions. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the development of integrated diagnostic strategies for seasonal IFV epidemics and future pandemics.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Nash C (2025)

Towards Optimal Health Through Boredom Aversion Based on Experiencing Psychological Flow in a Self-Directed Exercise Regime-A Scoping Review of Recent Research.

Sports (Basel, Switzerland), 13(6):.

BACKGROUND: Optimal health requires self-direction for exercise regime consistency. Boredom may cause abandoning regular exercise. Experiencing psychological flow-a concept psychologist Csikszentmihalyi originated-may avert boredom.

METHOD: A search of post-2020 peer-reviewed publications following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines for scoping reviews investigates the range of research on this topic. The databases searched are OVID, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The keywords are "Csikszentmihalyi AND flow AND exercise AND boredom". Included returns contain all the keywords. Those excluded are reviews, books, reports missing any keywords, non-English reports, reports not based on research studies, and research published before 2020.

RESULTS: Two databases returned the included results: OVID (n = 3) and Google Scholar (n = 8).

CONCLUSIONS: (1) Boredom is not evident when experiencing exercise-programme psychological flow. (2) Psychological flow evolves with self-directed changes in an exercise programme. (3) Successful exercise programme modifications during COVID-19 considered the imposed limitations. (4) Exercise regimes that are neither excessive nor extreme promote optimal health. And (5) optimal health accounts for exercise skill level and gender. Additionally, cognitive bias is avertable with a research team. Studies should include the research date and location and how flow reduces boredom, permitting accurate comparisons.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-25

Stasi C, M Bellini (2025)

Digestive Manifestations of Post-COVID-19: A Focus on Therapeutic Strategies.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 14(6):.

Post-COVID-19 is a chronic infection-related syndrome, including exacerbations of pre-existing or newly diagnosed conditions that have been established after the acute phase of COVID-19 and have demonstrated a wide range of systemic effects beyond the lungs. SARS-CoV-2 attaches to its receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2). Transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) facilitates viral entry and spread. ACE-2 receptors are detectable in several tissues, including the respiratory mucosa, digestive tract, heart, kidney, and brain. Several investigations have demonstrated an increase in digestive manifestations post-acute COVID-19, likely related to an alteration in the intestinal microbiota following infection. These changes can lead to a loss of species diversity, resulting in an overgrowth of opportunistic pathogens and deprivation of commensal bacteria. In this context, post-infection irritable bowel syndrome shows an increased incidence compared to controls. Growing evidence also suggests the enduring presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the gut tissue. Studies are ongoing to investigate antiviral agents that counteract prolonged COVID-19 symptoms. Therefore, the objectives of this review were to summarize the digestive manifestations, focusing on irritable bowel syndrome and therapeutic strategies. This review gives an overview of studies published in English in the last two years on the PubMed database.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-25

Hong M, Wu G, Ren Y, et al (2025)

Advancements in Pathogen Detection: Argonaute-Based Nucleic Acid Detection Technology.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 14(6):.

In recent years, global public health security has encountered significant challenges, with infectious diseases accounting for approximately 25% of global mortality annually. The worldwide pandemic instigated by the novel coronavirus, alongside the persistent threats posed by Ebola, influenza, and multidrug-resistant bacteria, has severely compromised human health, economic development, and social stability. Within this context, the development of rapid and precise pathogen detection technologies has emerged as a critical frontline defense for epidemic prevention and control, serving as a pivotal component in the implementation of the "early detection, early isolation, and early treatment" strategy. The Argonaute (Ago) protein, recognized as a programmable and target-specific activated nuclease, has demonstrated substantial potential in the realm of nucleic acid detection due to its distinctive biological properties, garnering considerable attention. In this study, we delineate the structural characteristics of Ago proteins and elucidate the mechanism underlying their nuclease activity. Furthermore, we review the principles of nucleic acid detection based on Argonaute and provide a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in related detection systems. Additionally, we compare the advantages of detection based on Argonaute with other detection methodologies. Through a comprehensive analysis, we aim to provide a robust theoretical foundation and an advanced technical reference for the development of new-generation nucleic acid detection platforms with high sensitivity and high specificity.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Bosco A, Fanos V, Bosone S, et al (2025)

SARS-CoV-2 in Asthmatic Children: Same Consequences in Different Endotypes?.

Metabolites, 15(6):.

During the early stages of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, concerns arose regarding the susceptibility of asthmatic children, one of the most common chronic conditions in childhood and a major cause of hospitalization in pediatric settings. Unexpectedly, evidences showed milder clinical courses and fewer asthma exacerbations in these patients, even if cases of critical and fatal infection, often related to specific clinical features of the patient, are not negligible. In this regard, obesity is considered not only an important comorbidity in patients with difficult-to-treat asthma but also a risk factor for more severe forms of COVID-19. These observations are of even greater concern in the context of an increase in childhood obesity that began even before the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and has continued also as a consequence of it. Given asthma's heterogeneity, especially in children, an endotype-based approach is crucial. This is possible through a detailed analysis of the complex metabolic pathways that correlate asthma, COVID-19 infection and obesity thanks to new high-through-put technologies, especially metabolomics, which with minimally invasive sampling, including on exhaled breath condensate (EBC), can provide precise and unbiased evidence in support of existing endotypes, making it possible to identify not only the most vulnerable individuals and thus risk stratification through specific biomarkers, but also new molecular and therapeutic targets. This review explores asthma endotypes by highlighting their shared immunometabolic pathways with COVID-19. Findings suggest that metabolomics could enable more accurate risk stratification and guide personalized interventions during viral pandemics, especially in the presence of relevant comorbidities such as obesity.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Liu H, Coarfa C, Charania AN, et al (2025)

Secreted Phosphoprotein 1 in Lung Diseases.

Metabolites, 15(6):.

Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1), also known as osteopontin (OPN) or early T lymphocyte activation protein 1 (ETA-1), is a multifunctional protein involved in numerous biological processes, including immune modulation, stress response, and tissue remodeling. The role of SPP1 in interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) has become an area of increasing interest, given its elevated expression in various ILDs such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), connective tissue disease-associated ILD (CTD-ILD), and pneumoconiosis, especially with recent data derived from single-cell RNA sequencing. In addition to ILDs, SPP1 has been implicated in infectious granulomatous lung diseases, lung and pleural malignancies, airway diseases, and COVID-19. In most cases, higher SPP1 levels in serum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, or lung tissue carry a poor prognosis. SPP1 is expressed in multiple cells critical for fibrogenesis, including macrophages, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts, and SPP1 has emerged as a potential target for therapeutic interventions. Here, we review the proposed mechanisms by which SPP1 contributes to the development of lung disease, with an emphasis on ILD.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Nyongesa C, Majeed T, Remond M, et al (2025)

A Systematic Review of the Concepts of Efficacy, Effectiveness, and Efficiency as Applied and Measured for Virtual Health Care Delivery in Correctional Facilities.

Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association [Epub ahead of print].

Background: The use of virtual care interventions in correctional facilities has increased in recent years owing to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the literature shows variability in the application and measurement of efficacy, effectiveness, and efficiency of virtual care interventions. This systematic review addresses this gap in evidence and provides an overview and appraisal of the methods and measures used to evaluate these aspects of virtual care interventions in correctional facilities, using a modified conceptual framework by the World Health Organization (WHO). Methods: We conducted a systematic review using a narrative synthesis approach. Comprehensive searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed studies published in English between 2014 and 2024. The Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistical Assessment and Review Instrument was used to assess the methodological quality of included studies. Results: Twenty-one studies were included, and most were conducted in the United States and focused on synchronous modality for adult males. None of the studies explicitly defined the efficacy, effectiveness, and efficiency of virtual care interventions. The concept of effectiveness was the most frequently explored, and aligned best with WHO's conceptual framework, whereas efficiency was the least explored. The most common evaluation measures were clinical effectiveness, user satisfaction, and interexaminer agreement. Conclusions: This review highlights the need for adopting a unified framework for evaluating virtual care in correctional facilities that can standardize evaluation metrics and improve resource allocation, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes by ensuring that virtual care interventions are efficacious, effective, and efficient.

RevDate: 2025-06-27

Snopkowska Lesniak SW, Maschio D, Neria F, et al (2025)

Novel Biomarkers for SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Journal of personalized medicine, 15(6):.

Background: COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has posed significant challenge to global healthcare systems, necessitating reliable biomarkers to predict disease severity and mortality. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the prognostic value of novel biomarkers in COVID-19 patients. The aim of this study was to identify and prioritize the most prognostically relevant novel biomarkers associated with COVID-19 outcomes. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available evidence. A systematic search of PubMed and Web of Science was performed to identify studies on the COVID-19 biomarkers. Observational studies that compared poor (severe disease/mortality) and good outcomes were included. For continuous measures, standard mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Pooled sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve analyses for the biomarkers were used. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Results: Of the 2907 screened studies, 38 were included (21 in the meta-analysis). MR-proADM showed higher levels of prediction for poor outcomes (SMD = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.11-1.69; AUC 0.74-0.96; sensitivity, 85%; specificity, 71%). The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) showed a high correlation with disease severity (SMD = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.79-1.35; AUC 0.73-0.98; sensitivity, 86%; specificity, 78%). Increased KL-6 levels were associated with lung injury (SMD = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.24-2.19; AUC 0.85-0.95). Other biomarkers (suPAR, miR-155, Galectin-3) showed promise but lacked sufficient data for pooled analysis. Heterogeneity was observed among the included studies in terms of diagnostic accuracy. These findings indicate that elevated levels of MR-proADM, NLR, and KL-6 are significantly associated with COVID-19 prognostic accuracy to guide patient management. Conclusions: MR-proADM, NLR, and KL-6 levels demonstrated strong prognostic value for COVID-19 severity and mortality. These biomarkers can enhance clinical decision-making.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Loperena González PN, Karthigeyan KP, Corry J, et al (2025)

Mammalian fatty acid synthase: a commonly used viral host dependency factor and a putative target for host-targeted broad-spectrum antiviral therapeutic development.

mBio [Epub ahead of print].

Viruses regulate host processes to create cellular environments favorable to viral replication. At least 27 viruses that infect humans require host fatty acid synthase (FASN)-dependent de novo fatty acid biosynthesis, including viruses from the Coronaviridae, Flaviviridae, Herpesviridae, Picornaviridae, Retroviridae, and Togaviridae families. How could FASN activity and subsequent de novo fatty acid production impact viral replication? FASN activity produces the fatty acid palmitate, which can be further metabolized into fatty acids that are used to form lipid droplets that can be used during viral assembly and budding, for beta-oxidation to generate ATP, and to create fatty acyl groups used for post-translational protein modification to change the subcellular localization of viral or host proteins. In this minireview, we outline the function of FASN, review the mechanisms linking virus replication and fatty acid biosynthesis, and consider the potential of FASN as a target for broad-spectrum antiviral drug development.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-25

Byrne AL, Pace NL, Thomas PS, et al (2025)

Peripheral venous blood gas analysis for the diagnosis of respiratory failure, hypercarbia and metabolic disturbance in adults.

The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 6(6):CD010841.

BACKGROUND: Arterial blood gas analysis (ABGA) is the reference standard for the diagnosis of respiratory failure (RF) and metabolic disturbance (MD), but peripheral venous blood gas analysis (PVBGA) is increasingly being used for the estimation of carbon dioxide, pH, and other variables in the context of acutely unwell adults presenting to hospitals and emergency departments.

OBJECTIVES: The primary objective of this review is to evaluate the performance of PVBGA by comparing it with the reference standard ABGA, which is assumed to be error-free for the diagnosis of (1) respiratory failure, (2) hypercarbia, and (3) metabolic disturbance (the three target conditions) in adults. The secondary objective is to evaluate the performance of the index test to diagnose nine specific subtypes of respiratory failure and metabolic disturbance. The definitions for these additional conditions are determined by changes to one or more of the following: pH (acidity), pO2 (partial pressure of oxygen), pCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide), HCO3 (bicarbonate), as stated in the Methods section of this review (target conditions). We aimed to explore the following covariates: participant demographics (e.g. age, weight, and sex); participant comorbidities (e.g. chronic lung disease, chest wall deformity, and central nervous system disorder such as spinal cord injury); and the indication for blood gas sampling (e.g. shortness of breath, critical illness, resuscitation, trauma, or whilst under general anaesthesia).

SEARCH METHODS: On 10 July 2024, we searched the electronic databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and LILACS. We also manually searched 19 respiratory and critical care journals, and we searched ClinicalTrials.gov for ongoing trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA: We considered consecutive series studies and case-control studies that directly compared the index test PVBGA to the reference standard ABGA for adults over the age of 16 years. The included studies contained data for any one of the target conditions of respiratory failure and metabolic disturbance, as determined by individual changes to pO2 (partial pressure of oxygen), pCO2 (partial pressure of carbon dioxide), pH (acidity), and HCO3 (bicarbonate) concentration. Studies that only provided mean values for summed data were ineligible for inclusion. However, we invited authors of such studies to provide individual patient data for inclusion in this systematic review. There are nine studies awaiting classification.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two authors independently evaluated the quality of the relevant studies and extracted data from them. We conducted a quality assessment using the QUADAS-2 tool. Our statistical analysis used 2 x 2 tables for the positive and negative results of each test. We estimated a bivariate meta-analysis of sensitivity and specificity.

MAIN RESULTS: We included six studies (919 participants) in our quantitative analysis. All studies were at high risk of bias due to one or more of the following factors: patient selection, since it was unclear if consecutive patients were included or where they were located; index test, with poor reporting of cut-offs; flow and timing domain because the fraction of inspired oxygen was frequently not stated and any difference between the collection of the VBGA and the ABGA could introduce bias. Respiratory failure For the diagnosis of respiratory failure of any type, when using PVBGA, the estimated summary sensitivity (Sn) was 97.6% (95% credible interval (CI) 94.1 to 99.4) and the estimated summary specificity (Sp) was 36.9% (95% CI 17.1 to 60.1) (6 studies, 805 participants of whom 291 (36%) were diagnosed with respiratory failure by ABGA; sensitivity: low-certainty evidence; specificity: very low certainty evidence). Isolated hypercarbia For the diagnosis of isolated hypercarbia (regardless of oxygen level), when using PVBGA, the estimated summary Sn was 97.1% (95% CI 93.3 to 99.2); the estimated summary Sp value was 53.9% (95% CI 39.8 to 66.7) (6 studies with 805 participants, 269 (33%) with ABGA confirmation; low-certainty evidence). Other findings Results for metabolic disturbance and our secondary target conditions are presented in the full review.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Very limited data suggest PVBGA performs poorly as a diagnostic test for respiratory failure compared to the reference standard of ABGA. The index test PVBGA was highly sensitive for the diagnosis of respiratory failure and isolated hypercarbia, but its specificity was poor for these two primary target conditions. The high sensitivity means PVBGA may have a useful role as a "rule out test" for respiratory failure and isolated hypercarbia; however, the high false-positive rates make the clinical interpretation of a positive test difficult. Moreover, we are uncertain regarding these estimates because we have only low to very low certainty about the evidence. Further studies that use (ABGA) established thresholds for the diagnosis of each target condition are needed.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Bouchat C, Blum S, Fobé E, et al (2024)

Policy advisory bodies during crises: a scoping review of the COVID-19 literature in Europe.

Evidence & policy : a journal of research, debate and practice [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 policy context was characterised by high levels of uncertainty, imperfect knowledge and the need for immediate action. Therefore, governments in Europe tended to rely on expertise provided by advisory bodies to design their crisis response. Advisory bodies played a fundamental part in policy making during the crisis to optimise policy formulation.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: During the COVID-19 crisis, the literature on policy advice grew considerably. To grasp the main research outcomes, we conduct a scoping review that interrogates the COVID-19 policy advice literature to answer the question 'How did policy advisory bodies operate in Europe during the COVID-19 crisis?' Our review builds on a strong theoretical and conceptual basis informed by the literature on policy advisory systems, while offering a new perspective by focusing on advice and policy making during crisis times specifically. We present a review of newly established knowledge and identify what merits further study.

METHODS: The scoping review follows a strict protocol informed by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to capture the literature published between 2020 and 2023. We searched two databases, Scopus and Web of Science. The grey literature was excluded.

FINDINGS: In total, 59 academic outputs inform this review. Overrepresented in our review were qualitative studies, studies about the UK and Sweden, and studies that examined the first half of 2020. Our review shows that the academic community has focused on advisory body composition, body structure and the advisory process.

DISCUSSION: Avenues for further research include the independence and influence of advisory bodies, and the fate of bodies set up during the crisis.

RevDate: 2025-06-26
CmpDate: 2025-06-25

Magura J, Nhari SR, TI Nzimakwe (2025)

Barriers to ART adherence in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review toward achieving UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets.

Frontiers in public health, 13:1609743.

INTRODUCTION: With the 2025 UNAIDS 95-95-95 deadline upon us, significant gaps remain in achieving universal HIV care and treatment targets, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite years of intensified global efforts, progress has lagged, partly driven by the multifaceted challenges of non-adherence to ART, shaped by social, economic, structural, and individual factors. These challenges have been compounded by the ever-changing landscape of global HIV funding, further undermining treatment outcomes. Addressing these interconnected barriers is essential to identify and implement targeted, evidence-based solutions.

METHODS: To explore these challenges and potential interventions, a scoping review was conducted, searching through PubMed and Dimensions databases for peer-reviewed articles published from 2020 through February 2025. Eligible studies focused on barriers to ART adherence in adult men and women ≥ 18 years old living with HIV, aligning with the UNAIDS 95-95-95 framework in sub-Saharan Africa.

RESULTS: Of the 4,928 articles screened, 21 were included in this scoping review. Although the search period was extended to February 2025, no eligible studies published in 2025 were identified. Barriers to ART adherence were multifaceted, spanning individual-level issues such as mental health issues and substance abuse; social barriers including stigma and intimate partner violence; and economic factors, including food insecurity, transport costs, and income instability. Structural barriers such as health system fragmentation, clinic accessibility, and drug stockouts were also common and often worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted service delivery and exacerbated socioeconomic vulnerabilities. While only peer-reviewed articles were included in the analysis, recent UNAIDS reports and reputable media sources, such as The Guardian, were referenced to contextualize the emerging impact of the 2025 HIV funding cuts, which have not yet been reflected in the academic literature.

CONCLUSION: Our findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted, multi-level interventions to address persistent economic, social, psychological, and policy barriers to ART adherence. A sustainable funding framework, combined with financial support, mental health services, and community-based care models, is crucial for improving retention and long-term adherence. These insights are essential for shaping policies, strengthening HIV service delivery, and sustaining momentum toward the 95-95-95 targets amid systematic challenges.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Lall S, Vijayasarathy M, Joshi NV, et al (2025)

Resurrection of the Helical Hairpin Hypothesis for Understanding Coronavirus Fusion.

The Journal of membrane biology [Epub ahead of print].

Coronaviruses use the spike protein (spike) to bind to target cells, and fuse the viral envelope with a host lipid membrane. Spike is a large trimeric surface glycoprotein, anchored to the viral membrane (envelope) by a single membrane-spanning polypeptide helix and a short intra-virion domain. In the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the spike is formed by three protomers of 1273 residues, each with two distinct domains separable by enzymatic proteolysis prior to infection. Thus far, enveloped virus surface glycoprotein structures have provided a detailed molecular view of the pre-fusion state, while structures of the post-fusion state have remained incomplete. The determination of the full-length structure of the SARS-CoV-2 spike in the post-fusion state is a landmark in furthering our understanding of the structural pre-requisites for membrane fusion. This perspective analyzes the fusion domain as revealed by the recent structure in the context of conserved sequences across diverse coronaviruses. We highlight the characterization of the membrane-embedded fusion peptide in a helical hairpin topology. This structure is discussed as a re-imagination of the helical hairpin hypothesis for polypeptide insertion into membranes, postulated by Engleman and Steitz over four decades ago.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Liao J, Liang Y, Liu Z, et al (2025)

Pyroptosis in acute respiratory distress syndrome and pulmonary fibrosis.

Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, 189:118286 pii:S0753-3322(25)00480-9 [Epub ahead of print].

ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome) and PF (pulmonary fibrosis) are severe pulmonary conditions with significant morbidity and mortality. This review focuses on the pyroptosis, a lytic, pro-inflammatory form of programmed cell death, as a central mechanism linking these two pathologies. We address how inflammasome activation stimulates the pyroptosis initiation and subsequently releases a cascade of inflammatory cytokines that drive the acute lung injury of ARDS. Subsequently, we elucidate how this sustained pyroptotic inflammation, combined with shifts in macrophage polarization, creates a pro-fibrotic microenvironment that promotes fibroblast activation and extracellular matrix deposition, thereby mechanistically driving the transition from ARDS to PF. The pathological landscape, from the early stage of ARDS to PF, is further shaped by a dynamic interaction between pyroptosis, necroptosis, and ferroptosis, with the temporal dominance of each pathway influencing the progression from acute inflammation to chronic fibrosis. Particularly, the clinical relevance of these mechanisms is also addressed in COVID-19-induced ARDS. Therefore, targeting key regulators of this axis, such as the NLRP3 inflammasome and the effector protein Gasdermin D, presents a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate inflammatory responses upon tissue damage and halt fibrotic progression, offering new hope for these severe lung diseases.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Emery K, Dhaliwal J, Light R, et al (2025)

Enabling Vaccine Uptake: Strategies for the Public Health Sector.

British journal of hospital medicine (London, England : 2005), 86(6):1-14.

Safe and effective vaccines have been instrumental in controlling and mitigating some of the most contagious and devastating diseases throughout history, ranging from smallpox, polio and diphtheria to measles, flu and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Despite their proven success, vaccination rates often fall short of the World Health Organisation's recommendations, facing persistent challenges. This review explores strategies to enhance vaccine uptake, with a particular focus on the UK context, by examining potential barriers, effective interventions and the vital role of various stakeholders. Boosting vaccine uptake requires a comprehensive approach that tackles issues such as vaccine hesitancy, improves accessibility, builds public trust, and utilises effective communication. By implementing targeted strategies, public bodies, scientists and healthcare professionals can work together to improve vaccination rates and safeguard communities against preventable diseases. Continuous evaluation and adaptation of these strategies are crucial to ensure their effectiveness and relevance in addressing the evolving challenges of vaccine uptake.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Ramakrishnan R, Washington A, Suveena S, et al (2025)

From DNA to Big Data: NGS Technologies and Their Applications.

Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.), 2952:459-482.

The last decade has witnessed an explosion in NGS data, which was the gift of advances in NGS technology as well as computing power. Along with AI, NGS is revolutionizing healthcare research. In this chapter, we briefly discuss the contribution of NGS in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic and mention its application across various fields like oncology, agriculture, archaeogenetics, and space biology, followed by a historical perspective on sequencing, the evolution of NGS technologies and those currently in use. The chapter further outlines various NGS methods and workflows, detailing the key stages and the tools commonly employed for efficient analysis. Additionally, we highlight the surge and complexity of NGS data generated by genomics, transcriptomics, and microbiome studies, challenges and discusses their clinical applications. Toward the end, we explore the future directions of NGS. Given the rapid increase in data volume and complexity, there is an urgent need for efficient big data technologies, state-of-the-art tools, and techniques to manage, analyze, and derive actionable insights from these vast datasets, addressing the demands of the present-day scientific landscape.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Shukla S, Vishwakarma K, Singh AK, et al (2025)

Curdlan: a microbial biopolymer of multifarious applications for a sustainable environment.

Protoplasma [Epub ahead of print].

Curdlan, an exopolysaccharide, has gained sufficient attention in recent years due to its potential health benefits. Its unique physico-chemical and rheological properties create an appropriate substitute for diverse applications in agriculture, food, and pharmaceutical industries. This review begins with an overview of bioactive properties, structural characteristics, curdlan biosynthesis, and its production technologies. Curdlan is useful in the modulation of immune responses and as an effective agent against diseases like malaria, cancer, dengue, and COVID-19. This review also expounds on the potential role of curdlan in the food industry as a thickener, texture modifier, stabilizer, and emulsifier. This biomolecule holds promise for functional food development due to its prebiotic properties. Research on curdlan has proved its potential role in the biomedical sector, and it acts positively in drug delivery and tissue engineering practices. Thus, curdlan offers a potential remedy in response to growing environmental concerns and the urgent demand for environment-friendly substitutes for synthetic polymers.

RevDate: 2025-06-26
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Tan YJ, SZ Lin (2025)

Isolated Abducens Nerve Palsies from COVID-19 Infections: Clinical Features and Outcomes.

Neurology India, 73(3):524-528.

BACKGROUND: Isolated abducens nerve palsies from COVID-19 infections are rarely described in literature. Their clinical features are poorly understood, and guidance on their treatment is lacking.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical features of isolated abducens nerve palsies from COVID-19 infection, and provide guidance on their management.

METHODS: We performed a literature review and analyzed the clinical features of patients with isolated abducens nerve palsy from COVID-19 infections reported in literature.

RESULTS: In total, 16 cases from 15 studies published between January 2020 and December 2023 were identified. Their median age was 44 years (range 3-71, including two children). Nearly two-thirds (10/16, 63%) were without medical history. Abducens nerve palsies mostly occurred early with COVID-19 symptoms (median of 5.5 days, range 0-21 days). They were all unilateral, and displayed neither clear gender nor left-right predilections. Brain magnetic resonance imaging scans were often unremarkable (9/13, 69%). More than half (9/16, 56%) received no treatment or symptomatic treatment only, while only two received steroids. Regardless, nearly all experienced clinical of diplopia (14/16, 88%), of which most recovery were either complete or near-complete (at least 10/14, 71%) within a median period of 26 days (range 5-240 days).

CONCLUSION: Isolated abducens nerve palsies are early but uncommon complications of COVID-19, mainly affecting patients with mild infections. Prognosis appears fair even when without corticosteroid treatment, and recovery is significant and early in most. Observation and early outpatient clinical review within a month are reasonable measures. Patients without significant improvement within a month should be re-assessed for other aetiologies.

RevDate: 2025-06-26
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Rahman MH, Usmani NG, Chandra P, et al (2025)

Mobile Apps to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG): Systematic App Research and Content Analysis.

JMIR formative research, 9:e66247 pii:v9i1e66247.

BACKGROUND: Numerous reviews have explored specific aspects of violence prevention apps, but given the rapid development of new apps, increased violence during COVID-19, and gaps in understanding functionalities and geographical distribution, an updated review is needed.

OBJECTIVE: Therefore, we aimed to systematically evaluate the trends, geographical distribution, functional categories, available features, and feature evolution of mobile apps designed to prevent violence against women and girls (VAWG).

METHODS: We conducted a systematic search on app reselling platforms and search engines from April 24, 2024 to May 28, 2024, using terms related to VAWG in multiple languages. We included apps meeting our criteria for addressing VAWG, without restrictions on date or language. We conducted content analysis of app and apps were categorized by functionality and feature type. We performed descriptive analyses, trend analysis, co-occurrence network analysis, and geographical mapping.

RESULTS: Out of 432 apps initially identified, 178 were included in the final analysis. Of these, 99 apps were available on both Google Play and the App Store, and 64 were exclusive to Google Play. Most apps were implemented in North America (48/178, 27%), followed by South Asia (31/178, 17%) and Europe and Central Asia (31/178, 17%). Emergency and support apps were most prevalent across regions. Most apps (132/178, 74%) originated from the private sector and were designed for survivor (121/178, 68%), were free without in-app purchases (100/178, 56%), had a website (148/178, 83%), and offered GPS features (142/178, 80%), but only 15% (27/178) provided offline functionality. App releases peaked in 2020 (33/178, 19%), followed by a decline. Regression analysis indicated a significant trend (P=.01) increase in app release, with a 2.40 unit increase per year before 2020 and a 7.01 unit decrease after, showing a post-2020 decline of 4.61 units per year. Apps were primarily categorized as emergency (n=110) or support (n=81), with most emergency apps in the 10,000 to ≥100,000 downloads range. Network analysis showed that emergency services (degree=10, clustering coefficient=0.911), location sharing (degree=10, clustering coefficient=0.911), SOS (Save Our Souls) alerts (degree=10, clustering coefficient=0.911), and educational resources (degree=10, clustering coefficient=0.911) features highly co-occurred in the same app. We found a gradual shift towards more sophisticated and comprehensive safety tools, evolving from basic GPS tracking and SOS alerts to advanced features such as real-time communication, panic buttons, peer support, and group communication, culminating in multifunctional platforms offering personalized safety, community engagement, and proactive risk identification.

CONCLUSIONS: Most apps to prevent VAWG emphasize emergency and support functions, and although initial releases increased, there has been a recent decline, with a shift towards integrating more comprehensive safety solutions such as communication, reporting, and community engagement. Future app development should prioritize cross-platform availability, offline functionality, public sector collaboration, and the integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Xu Y, Xu JW, Wu Y, et al (2025)

Prevalence and prognosis of sarcopenia in acute COVID-19 and long COVID: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Annals of medicine, 57(1):2519678.

BACKGROUND: A comprehensive investigation delineating the prevalence of sarcopenia across different infection phases, from acute COVID-19 to long COVID, is lacking. Meanwhile, the relationship between sarcopenia and adverse outcomes among COVID-19 patients remains inconsistent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus, before 22nd February 2025, was conducted to identify studies assessing sarcopenia prevalence in acute COVID-19 and long COVID. Random effects meta-analyses were performed to estimate the pooled prevalence of sarcopenia for acute COVID-19 and long COVID patients. Subgroup analyses stratified by assessment tool, region, income, hospitalization status, and age were performed. The associations between sarcopenia and COVID-19-related clinical outcomes were further quantified.

RESULTS: A total of 39 studies with 6,982 individuals were included. The pooled prevalence of sarcopenia was 48.7% (95% confidence interval (CI): 39.6-57.9%) in acute COVID-19 and 23.5% (95% CI: 12.7-39.4%) in long COVID. In acute COVID-19 patients, sarcopenia was not significantly associated with length of stay (mean difference = 2.215, 95% CI: -0.004 to 4.433), mechanical ventilation (Odds ratio (OR) = 1.80, 95% CI: 0.84-3.85), admission to the intensive care unit (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.63-1.77), or mortality (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 0.86-2.32), but was significantly associated with tracheostomy (OR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.28-4.82).

CONCLUSION: In conclusion, our findings indicate that sarcopenia is highly prevalent in acute COVID-19 and persists in a substantial proportion of long COVID patients, suggesting prolonged muscle loss beyond the acute phase. Future well-designed studies are needed to further investigate the association between sarcopenia and short-term and long-term prognostic outcomes in both acute and long COVID patients.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Abdekhoda M, A Dehnad (2025)

Strategies to combat infodemics in public health.

Eastern Mediterranean health journal = La revue de sante de la Mediterranee orientale = al-Majallah al-sihhiyah li-sharq al-mutawassit, 31(5):340-349.

BACKGROUND: Infodemic is an emerging concept in public health and effective strategies are required to combat it.

AIM: To identify documented strategies for combating infodemics in the health sector, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: In November 2022, we reviewed 87 articles on the management of infodemics in public health on PubMed and Web of Science using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews.

RESULTS: The number of articles on infodemic more than doubled from 18 in 2020 to 37 in 2021 and decreased to 32 in 2022, indicating efforts at different levels to combat infodemics especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Strategies to combat infodemics included health literacy and education, use of more effective information resources, content control, social networking and communication, restrictive laws, use of electronic platforms, awareness campaigns, and health care provider involvement.

CONCLUSION: Findings from this review indicate that infodemic, especially during a pandemic, is a serious challenge in public health and a multifaceted approach involving education, technology, policy and community engagement is essential to combat it.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Gschwend A, Mach-Perrot V, Sobral G, et al (2025)

[Factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among healthcare workers in Switzerland].

Revue medicale suisse, 21(923):1290-1294.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Switzerland adopted a strongly recommended but non-mandatory vaccination policy, respecting self-determination. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) were among the first to receive the vaccine. This literature review highlighted individual (gender, age, vaccination history, risk perception, social norms, and moral convictions) and contextual factors (trust in the government, recommendations from other HCPs, and media information) influencing HCPs' vaccination decisions in Switzerland. Understanding these factors offers opportunities to tailor vaccination measures during health crises.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Vora V, Kanyal S, Chauhan A, et al (2025)

Cultural perceptions and social determinants of health in perinatal mental health: An obstetric-psychiatric perspective.

International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics: the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Perinatal mental health is significantly influenced by social and cultural determinants, including socioeconomic status, education, cultural beliefs, and healthcare access. These factors shape the prevalence, presentation, and outcomes of mental health disorders during pregnancy and postpartum, as well as influencing help-seeking behaviors and treatment efficacy. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated disparities, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive amd socially informed care.

OBJECTIVES: This narrative review aims to compile current evidence on the intersection of cultural perceptions, social determinants, and perinatal mental health outcomes. Additionally, it proposes culturally acceptable interventions to address disparities in perinatal mental healthcare.

METHODOLOGY: The review integrates the existing literature, focusing on the bidirectional relationship between maternal mental health and obstetric outcomes. It highlights the disproportionate concentration of research in high-income, western countries and emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary approaches, such as the integration of psychiatric and obstetric perspectives, to address gaps in low- and middle-income settings.

OBSERVATIONS AND INFERENCES: Key findings include the impact of economic instability, low maternal health literacy, limited healthcare access, and inadequate social support on perinatal mental health. Cultural factors, such as stigma, gender roles, and religious beliefs, further influence help-seeking behaviors and treatment outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: The review underlines the lack of culturally attuned randomized controlled interventions aimed at perinatal mental health disorders and the need for culturally adapted measurement tools and methodologies. Recommendations include expanding mental health literacy campaigns, improving healthcare accessibility, and addressing systemic discrimination. Future research should focus on evaluating interventions for perinatal mental disorders, incorporating diverse populations, and addressing multimorbidity through holistic, interdisciplinary approaches.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Iannuccelli C, Favretti M, Dolcini G, et al (2025)

Fibromyalgia: one year in review 2025.

Clinical and experimental rheumatology, 43(6):957-969.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic syndrome characterised by widespread pain, high prevalence, and a significant impact on quality of life. Despite extensive research, its pathogenesis and treatment remain only partially understood, driving continued investigation throughout 2024. Dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathetic nervous system has been linked to chronic stress responses and neuroinflammation, with neuroimaging and preclinical studies confirming altered pain and stress processing. Low-grade inflammation and metabolic disturbances, including cytokine imbalance and increased adipose tissue infiltration, further exacerbate symptoms. Alterations in the gut microbiota contribute to immune and emotional dysregulation. MRI studies continue to reveal brain changes that differentiate FM from other chronic pain disorders. Multi-omics approaches, including transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, show promise as diagnostic biomarkers. Mitochondrial dysfunction also emerges as a key factor, since impaired energy metabolism seems to correlate with symptom severity. From a clinical perspective, recent studies have explored under-recognised aspects of FM, such as sexual and cognitive dysfunction, the role of gender, environmental exposures, and the disease's impact on relationships and family life. The differential diagnosis of FM and long COVID has ignited discussion about potential shared mechanisms. Conversely, residual pain in inflammatory diseases remains insufficiently addressed. Therapeutically, non-pharmacological strategies, particularly physical activity and psychosocial interventions, remain fundamental. Emerging areas such as non-invasive neuromodulation, psychedelic therapies, and the integration of technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence are opening new frontiers in treatment, patient care, and research. These advances underscore the multifactorial nature of FM and the need for personalised, interdisciplinary approaches.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

de Andrade ML, do Monte AL, Gerage AM, et al (2025)

Effects of Physical Exercise on Functional Physical Performance in Individuals With Long COVID: A Systematic Review.

Journal of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and prevention, 45(4):239-246.

PURPOSE: To analyze the effect of physical exercise on functional parameters in individuals with long coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).

REVIEW METHODS: A search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scielo, and EBSCO was carried out in October 2022, and it was updated in June 2024. For inclusion, studies should have involved physical training without pulmonary rehabilitation, have involved individuals who had long COVID-19, and were prospective trials, clinical trials, or controlled trials. Two reviewers independently performed data extraction and assessed the risk of bias. Seven studies were reviewed, three of high methodological quality. Participants with long COVID-19 were hospitalized in two studies. Interventions lasted 2 to 16 weeks, with frequencies of 2 to 7 days per week, often involving resistance exercise. Strength improved in 67% of studies, cardiorespiratory fitness in 50%, and agility/mobility in 60%. Anxiety improved in 25% of studies, while depression improved in 75%. Quality of life improved across all studies, with dyspnea and fatigue improving in 40% and 80%, respectively.

SUMMARY: Results suggest potential benefits of exercise training for subjects with long COVID-19 in several outcomes, mainly in functional capacity, depression symptoms, quality of life, and fatigue.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2025-06-27

Loef B, Bosma E, van Kerkhof LWM, et al (2025)

Night-shift work and susceptibility to infectious diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Scandinavian journal of work, environment & health, 51(4):298-311.

OBJECTIVES: A growing body of research on infection susceptibility among night-shift workers has emerged, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a comprehensive overview is still lacking. Therefore, this review aimed to synthesize the evidence on the association between night-shift work and susceptibility to infectious diseases.

METHODS: Embase and PsycINFO were systematically searched for studies published up to September 2024. Studies were included if they comprised a working population, night-shift workers were compared to non-shift workers, and the outcome was an infectious disease. Results were descriptively synthesized for common respiratory infections (flu and common cold), SARS-CoV-2 infection, and other infections. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using random-effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS: In total, 16 articles describing 14 studies among 191 320 workers were included. Based on 4 studies, night-shift work was not associated with a significantly increased risk of common respiratory infections [odds ratio (OR) 1.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.97-1.27, I[2]=65.8%[. However, night-shift workers had a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection than non-shift workers (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.09-1.58, I[2]=92.2%, N=10 studies). This association was stronger in higher-quality studies and studies conducted in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. For other infections, insufficient studies were available to conduct a meta-analysis. The certainty of evidence was graded very low due to a limited number of (prospective cohort) studies and high inconsistency in the available studies.

CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review and meta-analysis showed that night-shift work was associated with an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, but not of common respiratory infections. To address the lack of high-certainty evidence, more studies are needed that apply a prospective design with appropriate adjustment for confounding factors and more extensive information on night-shift work exposure.

RevDate: 2025-06-27
CmpDate: 2024-04-08

James ER, Church LWP, Hoffman SL, et al (2024)

Piloting delivery of PfSPZ vaccines for malaria through a cryogenic vaccine cold chain to travel and military medicine clinics.

Journal of travel medicine, 31(3):.

BACKGROUND: PfSPZ vaccines comprising Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) sporozoites (SPZ) have demonstrated > 90% protection against variant Pf malaria infections for at least 12 weeks; they are the only vaccines with the level of efficacy necessary to protect travellers. PfSPZ are eukaryotic cells stabilized by cryopreservation and distributed using a cryogenic (below -150 °C) cold chain. The Ebola vaccine and mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 pioneered uptake of vaccines requiring non-standard ultra-low temperature cold chains. The cryogenic cold chain using liquid nitrogen (LN2) vapour phase (LNVP) cryoshippers, is simpler, more efficient than -80, -20 or 2-8 °C cold chains, and does not use electricity. This study was conducted to evaluate implementation and integration of a cryogenically distributed vaccine at travel and military immunization clinics.

METHODS: We conducted sequential 28-day studies evaluating vaccine shipping, storage, maintenance and accession at two US military and two civilian travel health/immunization clinics. In each clinic, personnel were trained in equipment use, procurement and handling of LN2, temperature monitoring and inventory record keeping by in-person or video instruction.

RESULTS: Sites required 2-4 h/person for two persons to assimilate and develop the expertise to manage vaccine storage and LNVP operations. LN2 for recharging cryoshippers was delivered every 1-2 weeks. Vaccine ordering, receipt, storage and inventory control was conducted effectively. Simulated single dose vaccine cryovial retrieval and thawing were performed successfully in different travel clinic settings. Continuous temperature monitoring at each site was maintained with only one short excursion above -150 °C (-145 °C) through shipping, use and reverse logistics. Staff, during and at study conclusion, provided feedback that has been incorporated into our models for cold chain logistics.

CONCLUSIONS: These studies demonstrated that the training in delivery, storage, administration and integration of PfSPZ vaccines can be successfully managed in different immunization clinic settings for travellers and military personnel.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Richter A (2025)

Current experience with manual push subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) in patients with immune deficiencies.

Immunological medicine [Epub ahead of print].

Immunoglobulin G replacement therapy prevents infections in patients with antibody deficiencies. Subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) has typically been administered via infusion pump, but the manual push technique offers a simple, convenient alternative method. The manual push technique is efficacious, well tolerated, quick to administer, offers increased dosing flexibility, and does not rely on a pump. Having various administration options available to patients provides greater treatment satisfaction and feelings of self-empowerment, which may improve compliance. Currently available literature published before 10 February 2022, that reported patient and healthcare professional experience with SCIg administered via manual push, were reviewed. Literature searches were performed using PubMed, Google and ClinicalTrials.gov using key words 'manual push', 'rapid push', 'immunoglobulin', 'subcutaneous immunoglobulin', 'SCIg', and 'primary immunodeficiency'. Real-world evidence demonstrates all delivery techniques provide similar efficacy, so treatment administration becomes about patient preference, hospital resources, cost-effectiveness/recovery and clinician attitude. To establish newer administration modalities such as manual push or prefilled syringes, there needs to be patient awareness of these options, then education and finally confidence in recommending these options. Adoption of newer administration modalities will help ensure patients receive the widest range of choice, thus improving compliance and their risk of recurrent and severe infection.

RevDate: 2025-06-25
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Bausch-Jurken M, G Alter (2025)

The immunological impact of revaccination in a hybrid-immune world.

Frontiers in immunology, 16:1588259.

The global immune landscape of SARS-CoV-2 has progressively shifted from a naïve population several years ago to a population that possesses immunity to the virus through infection, vaccination, or a combination of both, known as hybrid immunity. Hybrid immunity offers a prolonged period of transmission-blocking activity, likely related to enhanced tissue-resident immunity, but also has been shown to be linked to broader humoral and cellular immune responses. Compared with vaccination or infection alone, the collective data have demonstrated that hybrid immunity offers enhanced protection against disease. Yet, despite the benefits of hybrid immunity, perpetual evolution of variants and the natural waning of immunity in vulnerable populations provides a strong rationale for revaccination. This article reviews the benefits of revaccination, including updating variant-specific immunity, bolstering humoral and cellular immune frequencies in those with hybrid immunity, and overcoming immune imprinting and enhancing effector mechanisms to raise surveillance and defense against the virus. As SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, updated booster vaccinations remain essential to enhance and sustain protection from disease by ensuring that the immune system is equipped to respond to contemporary strains, thereby reducing the impact of future outbreaks and mitigating the burden of COVID-19, especially among vulnerable populations.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Coyne BM, Ito D, Tariq A, et al (2025)

Ascertaining the mechanistic etiology of COVID-associated glomerulonephritis: a systematic review.

Frontiers in medicine, 12:1568943.

BACKGROUND: Since its first reported case in December 2019, COVID-19 disease, caused by severe acute respiratory coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), evolved into a major pandemic throughout the world. Although COVID-19 is most often characterized as a respiratory pathology, there are also extensive reports of renal complications, such as glomerulonephritis (GN). However, the precise nature of COVID-associated glomerulonephritis (COVID-GN) has yet to be fully understood. This review seeks to elucidate COVID-GN pathophysiology by conducting an exhaustive systematic review.

METHODS: Herein, we compare the different GN subtypes associated with COVID-19 in the literature. We also review the cytokines, antibodies, and genes most implicated in COVID-GN.

RESULTS: The GN subtype with the highest number of cases associated with COVID-19 infection was focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, specifically the collapsing morphology. Meanwhile, the highest number of cases associated with COVID-19 vaccination was IgA nephropathy. The most prevalent mechanism in the literature for COVID-GN involves a cytokine storm, which may be accompanied by immune complex deposition.

DISCUSSION: Both infection and vaccination from SARS-CoV-2 can induce robust CD4+ T cell responses promoted by an IL-6 amplifier loop of inflammation. This immune response is likely further enhanced by interactions with complement systems and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). SARS-CoV-2-mediated pathways of both direct cytotoxicity and stimulation of polyclonal immunoglobulin may converge to cause glomerular inflammation and injury. Further investigation of these inflammatory pathways may provide insight into COVID-19 pathophysiology, treatment, and long-term outcomes.

RevDate: 2025-06-25
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Nazir M, Mir IR, Lone SA, et al (2025)

Innate immunity, therapeutic targets and monoclonal antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 infection.

PeerJ, 13:e19462.

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), caused by SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), stands as one of the most severe pandemics the world has ever faced in recent times. SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibits a wide range of symptoms, varying from severe manifestations to mild cases and even asymptomatic carriers. This diversity stems from a multitude of factors, including genetic predisposition, viral variants, and immune status. During SARS-CoV-2 infection, the immune system engages pattern recognition receptors, setting off a series of intricate signalling cascades. These cascades culminate in the activation of innate immune responses, including induction of type I and type III interferons. The emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 pose challenges to the innate immune system defense. Therefore, investigating the innate immune response is crucial for effectively combating SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. The cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophoshate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway, a critical innate immune mechanism, represents a promising target for intervention at multiple stages to reduce the severity and progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review explores innate immunity in SARS-CoV-2 infection and other immune responses critical for SARS-CoV-2 defence. As part of the therapeutic approach, we extend our review to highlight monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) as emerging and effective therapeutics for controlling SARS-CoV-2 by targeting different stages of the innate immune system. A diverse range of mAbs has been explored to address specific targets within the innate immune pathways. A deep understanding of innate immunity and targeted monoclonal therapeutics will be instrumental in combating viruses and their variants, laying the foundation for enhanced treatment and therapeutic strategies.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Wu J, Deng X, Luo J, et al (2025)

Update in the Treatment of Cirrhotic Patients with Portal Vein Thrombosis.

Clinical and molecular hepatology pii:cmh.2025.0411 [Epub ahead of print].

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is characterized by the formation of a thrombus (blood clot) within the portal vein system, including main portal vein and its intrahepatic portal vein branches, and may extend to the superior mesenteric vein or splenic vein. The emergence of PVT is linked to diverse risk factors, encompassing liver conditions with cirrhosis, abdominal infections, previous abdominal surgeries, malignancies, inherited or acquired thrombophilias, and systemic hypercoagulable conditions. Recent studies revealed a possible connection between the occurrence of PVT and either contracting COVID-19 or receiving a COVID-19 vaccination. Current treatment strategies were primarily based on symptom management, extent, and progression of thrombosis, but their efficacy was inconsistent and suboptimal. Untimely or inadequate treatment can lead to the progression of the thrombus and increase the risk of complications, such as portal hypertension, variceal bleeding, and hepatic decompensation, posing a significant risk to the patient's life. Thus, early, and appropriate initiation of pharmacologic and interventional treatments, as well as more aggressive strategies, are crucial for the management and prevention of PVT progression and recurrence. This review focuses on the literature on the recent advancements in the treatment of PVT using various therapeutic modalities, including anticoagulant therapy, thrombolysis, thrombectomy, interventional therapy and liver transplant in cirrhotic patients. In addition, we discuss pearls and pitfalls of these strategies for PVT, highlighting recent progress, identifying knowledge gaps, and proposing avenues towards precision management.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-24

Burtscher M, Strasser B, Klimont J, et al (2025)

The Impact of Living at Moderate Altitude on Healthy Aging in Austria: Epidemiological Findings and Potential Underlying Mechanisms.

Gerontology, 71(5):351-364.

BACKGROUND: Epidemiological data of populations living at moderate altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 m suggest healthier aging when compared to people living in lower regions. Besides social determinants of health, lifestyle and cardiovascular risk factors, environmental conditions such as ambient temperature, air pollution and aeroallergens, solar radiation and in particular hypobaric hypoxia may modify the risk of disease development and mortality. The present study was aimed at (1) evaluating altitude-dependent overall and age-specific mortality rates of the most prevalent diseases using mortality registries and (2) link them to differences in lifestyle and risk factors from a population-based survey in Austria. We analyzed altitude-dependent mortality data of the entire Austrian population over a 10-year period (2013-2022, including the COVID-19 pandemic) and the distribution of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes, lifestyle factors such as the amount of regular physical activity and dietary habits based on a representative Austrian-wide survey from 2019.

SUMMARY: Mortality was reduced in both sexes when living between 1,000 and 2,000 m compared to those living lower: by 15% (13-18%) in men and by 22% (20-24%) in women (p < 0.05). People aged between 50 and 89 years, particularly benefited from living at higher altitudes. Women lived a healthier lifestyle than men, especially at an age of above 50 years, only women older than 74 benefited from a higher located residence regarding COVID-19 mortality.

KEY MESSAGES: The present study confirms mortality benefits at moderate altitudes. We propose that besides lifestyle and other environmental conditions, episodically occurring hypoxic periods and related hypoxia conditioning effects represent major underlying mechanisms.

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