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Bibliography on: covid-19

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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 26 Jun 2025 at 01:42 Created: 

covid-19

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2), a virus closely related to the SARS virus. The disease was discovered and named during the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak. Those affected may develop a fever, dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A sore throat, runny nose or sneezing is less common. While the majority of cases result in mild symptoms, some can progress to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. The infection is spread from one person to others via respiratory droplets produced from the airways, often during coughing or sneezing. Time from exposure to onset of symptoms is generally between 2 and 14 days, with an average of 5 days. The standard method of diagnosis is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) from a nasopharyngeal swab or sputum sample, with results within a few hours to 2 days. Antibody assays can also be used, using a blood serum sample, with results within a few days. The infection can also be diagnosed from a combination of symptoms, risk factors and a chest CT scan showing features of pneumonia. Correct handwashing technique, maintaining distance from people who are coughing and not touching one's face with unwashed hands are measures recommended to prevent the disease. It is also recommended to cover one's nose and mouth with a tissue or a bent elbow when coughing. Those who suspect they carry the virus are recommended to wear a surgical face mask and seek medical advice by calling a doctor rather than visiting a clinic in person. Masks are also recommended for those who are taking care of someone with a suspected infection but not for the general public. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, with management involving treatment of symptoms, supportive care and experimental measures. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 3%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As of 29 February 2020, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the United States are areas having evidence of community transmission of the disease.

NOTE: To obtain the entire bibliography (all 56325 citations) in bibtek format (a format that can be easily loaded into many different reference-manager software programs, click HERE.

Created with PubMed® Query: ( SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR (wuhan AND coronavirus) AND review[SB] ) NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

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RevDate: 2025-06-25

Xu R, Zhang G, Che Y, et al (2025)

Ablation combined with video-assisted thoracic surgery hybrid technique for multiple primary lung cancer.

iScience, 28(6):112703.

Increased public health awareness and expanded low-dose computed tomography (CT) utilization, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have elevated detection rates of pulmonary ground-glass nodules (GGNs). Patients with multiple primary lung cancer (MPLC) often present with multiple GGNs, posing challenges for precise treatment and prognostic assessment. Current therapies including stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), chemotherapy, and immunotherapy face efficacy and safety limitations. While video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is the primary treatment for high-risk GGNs, the sole reliance on surgery may cause excessive loss of lung function. Image-guided thermal ablation techniques can effectively treat smaller lesions with lung preservation. This review explores molecular mechanisms of ablation, VATS-ablation synergy, and the potential value of this approach in combination with immunotherapy. The clinical application prospects, including advancements in navigation techniques and equipment, are also discussed. Overall, this hybrid surgical strategy represents a promising option for patients with multiple lesions, minimizing lung function loss and the psychological burden.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Ibrahim M, Ahmad J, Abbas M, et al (2025)

The Role of N-terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide, Troponins, and D-dimer in Acute Cardio-Respiratory Syndromes: A Multi-specialty Systematic Review.

Cureus, 17(5):e84460.

This systematic review evaluates the diagnostic and prognostic utility of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), cardiac troponins, and D-dimer in acute cardio-respiratory syndromes, including heart failure (HF), acute coronary syndrome (ACS), pulmonary embolism (PE), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related complications. These biomarkers play critical roles in assessing myocardial stress, injury, and thrombosis risk, offering a rapid and cost-effective alternative to traditional diagnostic tools. A comprehensive literature search from 2015 to 2024 identified 14 high-quality studies, demonstrating NT-proBNP's strong correlation with HF severity and mortality risk in severe COVID-19, while cardiac troponins were associated with myocardial injury in ARDS and ACS. D-dimer emerged as a predictor of thrombotic complications and poor outcomes in interstitial lung disease (ILD) and PE. The combined use of these biomarkers significantly improved risk stratification, enabling early intervention and reducing unnecessary imaging and invasive testing. A multi-marker approach provided superior predictive accuracy for mortality and recurrence risk in PE compared to single biomarker assessments. Despite some methodological limitations, including heterogeneity in biomarker thresholds, the findings support the integration of these markers into routine clinical practice to enhance early diagnosis and patient management. Future research should focus on standardizing biomarker cut-off values, conducting large-scale multi-center trials, and incorporating biomarker data into artificial intelligence (AI)-driven decision systems. This study highlights the potential of biomarker-driven risk assessment in cardio-respiratory medicine, paving the way for more precise, early, and effective intervention strategies to optimize patient outcomes and advance precision medicine in critical care settings.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Saxena S, Mandrah V, Tariq W, et al (2025)

The Future of mRNA Vaccines: Potential Beyond COVID-19.

Cureus, 17(5):e84529.

In recent years, mRNA therapeutics have emerged as a promising platform in treating a wide range of diseases, including cancers, infections, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases. This review focuses on the clinical impact of mRNA-based treatments and their transformative potential in modern medicine. mRNA therapeutics utilize the host's cellular machinery to produce target proteins, enabling highly specific and customizable treatments. In the case of cancer, mRNA vaccines to stimulate immune responses against such tumor-specific antigens are being developed in a personalized manner. Infectious diseases are also an indication for which mRNA vaccines have shown a significant effect on preventing viral infection, as the global success of mRNA COVID vaccines demonstrates. Among genetic disorders, mRNA therapy presents a new way to restore defective proteins and reverse the underlying pattern of genetic defects. Furthermore, mRNA treatment of autoimmune diseases aims to generate immune tolerance and avoid traditional immunosuppressive therapy. Advances are being driven by the discovery of new technologies to stabilize, deliver, and modulate the immune system around mRNAs. Recent advances in delivery systems and RNA stabilization have further expanded the potential of mRNA vaccines for viral diseases. mRNA therapeutics have the advantage of being rapidly developed and adaptable to a wide range. Research on further improvement of the delivery mechanisms and long-term safety will be necessary for extending the clinical applications of mRNA therapeutics.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Jwa S, Imanishi Y, Ascher MT, et al (2025)

Communication interventions to reduce parental vaccine hesitancy: A systematic review.

Vaccine, 61:127401 pii:S0264-410X(25)00698-X [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: Vaccine hesitancy among parents and caregivers is a growing issue that can lead to reduced vaccine coverage and corresponding outbreaks of disease. Different interventions to reduce vaccine hesitancy have been developed, including the use of remote online communication that has become more common during the COVID-19 pandemic, but their impacts and effectiveness are unclear. In this systematic review, we aimed to identify effective types of communication that reduce vaccine hesitancy.

METHODS: Multiple online databases were searched on April 1st, 2022 as well as March 18th, 2024. Included articles studied the impact of communication interventions aiming to reduce vaccine hesitancy among parents and caregivers of young children. Interventions targeting adolescent or adult vaccines were excluded. Potential biases or limitations that may affect the results of each study were evaluated.

RESULTS: Out of 3873 identified articles, 33 studies were included in this review, and 25 showed effectiveness. Among the 25 effective communication interventions, 11 were in-person and interactive, 11 were neither in-person nor interactive, 3 were interactive but not in-person, and 2 were in-person but not interactive.

DISCUSSION: Communication interventions can reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase childhood vaccine coverage. Although different types of interventions can reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase childhood vaccine coverage, especially by in-person and interactive communication interventions, further research is needed to elucidate the components that make such interventions impactful in different settings. These findings are particularly relevant for clinicians and public health officials striving to reduce vaccine hesitancy and increase vaccine uptake among children.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Okano M, Okubo K, Gotoh M, et al (2025)

Practical guideline for the management of allergic rhinitis in Japan 2024.

Auris, nasus, larynx, 52(4):426-441 pii:S0385-8146(25)00082-3 [Epub ahead of print].

The Practical Guideline for the Management of Allergic Rhinitis in Japan was first published in 1993. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the current 10th edition was published in 2024. The most recent collection of evidence from the literature, such as the sustained post-treatment effect of sublingual immunotherapy on Japanese cedar pollinosis, was added to the revised guideline, which incorporates evidence-based medicine. In this revised guideline, a diagram illustrating the pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis and the mechanisms of action of various pharmacological treatments has been added. Also included is a diagram that shows the mechanism of action of allergen immunotherapy and a more detailed description of the oral allergy syndrome. The clinical question and answer section was also revised along with the introduction of new questions, such as: Does anti-IgE antibody treatment effectively reduce the symptoms of severe seasonal allergic rhinitis? Also updated was the evidence-based step-by-step strategy for treatment.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Mothae SA, Chiliza TE, NE Mvubu (2025)

SARS-CoV-2 host-pathogen interactome: insights into more players during pathogenesis.

Virology, 610:110607 pii:S0042-6822(25)00220-X [Epub ahead of print].

SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, emerged in December 2019 and was declared a global health emergency in January 2020. The pandemic has led to nearly 7 million deaths worldwide, prompting ongoing research into viral variants and potential future outbreaks. Like other viruses, SARS-CoV-2 relies on host proteins to complete its life cycle, hijacking cellular processes to enhance replication and evade immune responses. The virus primarily enters host cells through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, but additional co-receptors, including C-type lectins, neuropilin-1, basigin (CD147), and tyrosine-protein kinase receptors, may also facilitate entry. To evade immune detection, SARS-CoV-2 targets the type I interferon (IFN) pathway, disrupting antiviral responses. Viral replication is supported by interactions with host polymerase (Pol δ), lipid droplet regulators, and Ras-related proteins. Non-structural proteins (NSPs) further manipulate host ATP metabolism and stress response pathways in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria. The membrane (M) protein plays a crucial role in viral trafficking, interacting with host proteins to direct assembly at the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) or plasma membrane, promoting syncytia formation. For viral release, SARS-CoV-2 exploits tight junction proteins, enhancing its spread within the lungs. This narrative review unpacks the SARS-CoV-2 host-pathogen interactome, highlighting critical structural and non-structural protein interactions as well as crucial host proteins that are expressed during the pathogenesis process. Through an integrative perspective of essential "players" during pathogenesis, this review aims to uncover therapeutic and vaccine targets, offering insights into antiviral strategies against SARS-CoV-2 and future coronaviruses.

RevDate: 2025-06-25

Cabral-Marques O, Schimke LF, Moll G, et al (2025)

Advancing research on regulatory autoantibodies targeting GPCRs: Insights from the 5th international symposium.

Autoimmunity reviews, 24(9):103855 pii:S1568-9972(25)00115-6 [Epub ahead of print].

The 5th International Symposium on Regulatory Autoantibodies Targeting GPCR (RAB-GPCRs) advanced the understanding of the significant role played by autoantibodies targeting G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) in various human diseases. Once considered passive markers, RAB-GPCRs are now recognized as active modulators of cellular signaling, immune regulation, and inflammation. The symposium highlighted their involvement in multiple prominent pathologies, including autoimmune diseases, cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases, and neuroimmunologic disorders such as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and post-COVID-19 syndrome (ME/CFS/PCS), as well as solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SOT/HSCT). Experts from rheumatology, immunology, and neurology presented interdisciplinary discussions on the potential of RAB-GPCRs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Advances in screening methods, biomarker identification, and therapeutic strategies were shared, emphasizing their diagnostic potential and application in novel therapeutic interventions. This report summarizes key insights from the symposium, particularly focusing on the modulatory properties of RAB-GPCRs and their relevance in both immune-mediated diseases and other pathologies (e.g., vascular, degenerative) that are traditionally not considered primarily immune-mediated. Ongoing research is expected to further establish these autoantibodies as crucial components in disease modulation and systems biology contexts, offering new opportunities for precision medicine and improved clinical outcomes in immune-related disorders.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Beuren T, Ferrari F, Franzoni LT, et al (2025)

Exploring the interplay between host genetics and acute and long COVID: A narrative review.

Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil), 80:100708 pii:S1807-5932(25)00127-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Over the past four years, pivotal discoveries have deepened the understanding of the relationship between genetic factors and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Numerous genes associated with severe COVID-19 suggest a potential genetic predisposition, which may help explain why some individuals develop more serious illnesses. Emerging evidence highlights the role of genes involved in pulmonary immunity, such as Forkhead box Protein P4 (FOXP4), whose increased expression in lung tissue has been linked to more severe disease. Other genes - Transmembrane Protease Serine-2 (TMPRSS2), Leucine Zipper Transcription Factor Like-1 (LZTFL1), Solute Carrier family 6 member 20 (SLC6A20), Tyrosine Kinase-2 (TYK2), Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE), and FYVE and Coiled-Coil Domain-Containing-1 (FYCO1) - have also been implicated in COVID-19 severity. In contrast, certain genetic variants - such as the T-allele of rs12329760 in the TMPRSS2 gene and rs35705950-T in the Mucin-5B (MUC5B) gene - may confer protection against severe disease. Overall, the evidence suggests that genetic factors can influence both susceptibility to and protection from severe COVID-19, although these associations are likely shaped by complex interactions with environmental, behavioral, and other biological factors. This review summarizes current knowledge on genetic determinants linked to COVID-19 outcomes.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Smet M, Berkell M, Górska A, et al (2025)

Drivers of quasispecies development in SARS-CoV-2 and implications for emergent variants and COVID-19.

Virology, 610:110584 pii:S0042-6822(25)00197-7 [Epub ahead of print].

Since the emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in 2019, significant research has focused on SARS-CoV-2 evolution and transmission. Most transmission studies rely on RT-qPCR and consensus sequencing for SARS-CoV-2 characterization, often overlooking the collection of viable genetically linked genomes characterized by one or more intra-host single nucleotide variants (iSNVs) within the same sample, defined as "quasispecies" (QS), which could influence disease outcomes. QS are highly variable in genomic position and frequency and have been proven to impact viral evolution substantially. Several de novo mutations were detected in QS before becoming lineage defining in variants of concern (VOCs). These mutations can also result from errors during replication and transcription leading to the development of defective viral genomes (DVGs) that are incapable of replicating, but important for propagating viral diversity during infection. In a continuously changing landscape of dominating VOCs and anti-SARS-CoV-2 therapy and vaccination strategies, this scoping review aims to summarize the current state-of-the-art and identify knowledge gaps in understanding QS development and their impact on intra-host SARS-CoV-2 evolution, virulence, and intra-host immunity. Finally, we explore the potential of studying inter-host transmission in households as a mirror for community transmission and evolution.

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

Fando AA, Ilyichev AA, Litvinova VR, et al (2025)

[DNA Vaccine Technologies: Design and Delivery].

Molekuliarnaia biologiia, 59(1):3-21.

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered the development of new directions in vaccine development, among which DNA- and mRNA-based technologies are particularly noteworthy. The platform based on DNA vaccines is developing particularly intensively due to their high stability at ambient temperature and the ability to activate both humoral and cellular immunity. The full cycle of DNA vaccine creation, which includes the construction of plasmid DNA, obtaining a producer strain, fermentation, and purification, takes 2-4 weeks. In addition, the production technology of such vaccines does not require working with dangerous pathogens, which significantly simplifies the process of their production and reduces the overall cost. Over more than 30 years of rapid development, DNA vaccine technology continues to undergo changes. Currently, there is a licensed DNA vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19, and many candidate prophylactic vaccines against viral and bacterial diseases are in clinical trials. This review covers not only the principles of constructing plasmid DNA vaccines, but also new technologies for obtaining DNA constructs, such as minicircular DNA, MIDGE DNA, and Doggybone^(â„¢) DNA. New types of DNA vaccines are interesting because they consist only of the most essential elements for activating the immune response. Such constructs completely lack the sequences necessary for the production of plasmid DNA in bacterial cells, for example, the antibiotic resistance gene. One of the key problems in the development of a DNA vaccine is the method of its delivery to target cells. Currently, various delivery methods are used, both chemical and physical, which are rapidly developing and have already proven themselves to be reliable and effective. The characteristics of some of the most promising methods are also presented in this review.

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

Nakajima K, Hirose A, Yoshino M, et al (2025)

Midwives' Support for Couples in Japanese Hospitals and Clinics During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Nursing open, 12(6):e70250.

AIMS: Severe restrictions and changes in perinatal care, social isolation, and disruption of marital relationships due to the coronavirus disease COVID-19 pandemic have become problematic. This study aimed to clarify the status of the health guidance and group education provided by midwives in Japanese hospitals and clinics before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, this study clarifies the role of midwifery support in promoting marital relationships.

DESIGN: Cross-sectional questionnaire survey.

METHODS: The STROBE statement was used to guide this study. Overall, 890 midwives working in hospitals and clinics throughout Japan were recruited for this study, which yielded 216 valid questionnaires.

RESULTS: The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed Japanese midwifery into a flexible system that can provide non-face-to-face individualised support for couples. However, continuous midwifery care was not provided to couples prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, midwifery support for couples has been limited since the outbreak of COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant association between midwifery practice and the importance of promoting marital relationships.

CONCLUSION: The challenge in providing midwifery support to couples is providing individualised and ongoing support in combination with direct and indirect support.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Pail O, Lin MJ, Anagnostou T, et al (2025)

Cancer vaccines and the future of immunotherapy.

Lancet (London, England) pii:S0140-6736(25)00553-7 [Epub ahead of print].

Vaccines have had a major impact on the control of infectious disease, most recently by helping to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Prophylactic cancer vaccines have prevented several malignancies by protecting against cancer-causing pathogens. By contrast, therapeutic vaccines training the immune system to eliminate established tumours are now showing real promise in clinical settings. In the adjuvant setting, vaccines against melanoma and pancreatic cancer appear to be reducing minimal residual disease and relapse. In the macrometastatic setting, in-situ vaccines have induced systemic regressions in advanced-stage lung and breast cancers and lymphomas. More effective cancer vaccines are being developed through having a deeper understanding of crucial cellular factors in tumour immunology, the incorporation of newer vaccine components to effectively mobilise and activate cells, the use of omics and artificial intelligence in vaccine design, and addition of immune checkpoint blockade. In this Viewpoint, we analyse cancer vaccine trials, the strengths and limitations of different vaccine approaches, and we discuss how the next generation of cancer vaccines can help improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Kantor R, Pau AK, Kozal MJ, et al (2025)

Do we need routine integrase resistance testing before starting antiretroviral therapy?.

The lancet. HIV pii:S2352-3018(25)00108-0 [Epub ahead of print].

Oral second-generation integrase strand transfer inhibitors are now anchor drugs of antiretroviral therapy (ART) globally due to their high resistance barriers. In high-income settings, guidelines recommend routine protease and reverse transcriptase resistance testing before ART initiation but suggest routine integrase resistance testing only for individuals at elevated risk of integrase resistance. Improved characterisation of transmitted integrase resistance, its detection, and its clinical impact will guide future recommendations for clinical decision making. Balancing the need to protect this important drug class against concerns about resource allocation and care complexity presents a substantial challenge. Shifting the responsibility to providers to decide whether and when to test for integrase resistance before ART initiation can be problematic, particularly given the uncertainty around the need to reassess related available recommendations. As our understanding of integrase resistance evolves, prioritising this discussion is essential, and providers, researchers, and policy makers should engage in addressing this important issue.

RevDate: 2025-06-24
CmpDate: 2025-06-23

Pangrazzi L, B Weinberger (2025)

Recent developments of vaccines for older adults: Adjuvants and beyond.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 21(1):2517931.

As the global population ages, the development of effective vaccines for older adults has become a public health priority. Immunosenescence, the gradual decline of immune function with age, reduces vaccine efficacy, necessitating novel strategies to enhance immune responses in this population. This review summarizes the current landscape of vaccines for older adults including vaccines against influenza, pneumococcal disease, COVID-19, RSV and herpes zoster and explores recent advancements in vaccines for older adults. Adjuvants can enhance immunogenicity and have played an important role in recent vaccine developments. This review underscores the need for continued innovation to improve existing vaccines, develop vaccines against additional infections including nosocomial pathogens, and to strengthen implementation of vaccination programs to ensure optimal protection against infectious diseases in aging populations.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Lang SM, H Schiffl (2025)

Long-term renal consequences of COVID-19. Emerging evidence and unanswered questions.

International urology and nephrology [Epub ahead of print].

PURPOSE: COVID-19 infection is associated with a high burden of acute or acute on chronic kidney injury (AKI), particularly in critically ill patients. Given the large numbers of COVID-19 survivors, characterization of long-term adverse kidney effects of COVID-19 have important implications for post-COVID-19 care.

METHODS: This narrative review provides a summary of epidemiologic evidence for post-COVID kidney disorders.

RESULTS: Precise post-COVID renal data are scarce. The true burden of long-COVID chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains unknown owing to under-recognition, under-diagnosis, clinical heterogeneity of patients, incomplete follow-up, and temporal trends in critical COVID-19 disease across waves of the pandemic. Collectively, the few well-designed studies assessing the impact of long-COVID on kidney health found that the overwhelming majority of patients with normal renal function at admission and without AKI during acute COVID-19 disease preserved kidney function. Post-infection kidney function trajectories of patients who experience a loss of renal function vary. Kidney function may decline gradually even in non-hospitalized patients, hospitalized patients may experience a rapid loss of kidney function 6-12 months after COVID-19 diagnosis or hospital discharge resulting from AKI during the acute phase of the disease. End-stage renal disease may occur after non-recovery from AKI and rapid progression of pre-existing CKD. Multiple mechanisms may trigger post-COVID CKD including maladaptive repair after AKI, or progression of renal lesions of systemic co-morbidities, persistence of the virus and dysregulation of inflammatory cytokines.

CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted and may continue to have an impact on kidney health. Patients at risk have a higher propensity to develop critical COVID-19 disease. Post-COVID-19 care must pay close attention to renal function in patients discharged from hospital.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Bhattacharya S, Singh A, A Kashyap (2025)

Digital horizons in non-communicable disease care: a bibliometric exploration of intervention impact and innovation.

Frontiers in digital health, 7:1528711.

INTRODUCTION: Digital interventions show considerable promise in managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within primary healthcare.

AIM: The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research on digital interventions for individuals living with NCDs.

METHODOLOGY: This study explores digital interventions in NCDs through a bibliometric analysis from 2014 to 2024. Carefully designed search queries targeted primary and combined terms to cover a wide range of NCDs, including cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. SCOPUS searches yielded 9,572 English-language articles, refined by excluding non-relevant works and duplicates. Metadata, including authorship, keywords, and citations, was extracted for analysis. Using Biblioshiny and VosViewer, the study examined publication trends, telemedicine applications, and the knowledge framework of the field. Conceptual themes were identified through co-occurrence mapping, intellectual structures via co-citation networks, and social structures through collaboration patterns among authors, institutions, and countries.

RESULTS: The upward trend in research on digital interventions and NCDs accelerated significantly after 2018, peaking in 2021, followed by a slight decline. Medicine dominates this field, with considerable contributions from biochemistry, health professions, and engineering. The most prolific authors, primarily from the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, have significantly shaped this research area. Institutional contributions are led by Harvard Medical School and other global leaders, reflecting strong inter-institutional collaborations. The United States and the United Kingdom are the most productive countries, with the Journal of Medical Internet Research standing out as the leading publication. Keyword analysis reveals a focus on telemedicine, COVID-19, tele-health, and digital health. Co-citation analyses identify key intellectual frameworks, while co-authorship and institutional collaborations highlight robust global networks. Emerging trends emphasize AI, digital health tools, and patient self-management, underscoring a transformative shift in addressing NCDs through technology-driven interventions. The findings highlight the need for patient-centered applications, improved implementation strategies, and strengthened collaborations, especially in underrepresented regions, to enhance the global impact of digital interventions for NCDs.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Xu Q, Lian H, Zhou R, et al (2025)

Curcumin and multiple health outcomes: critical umbrella review of intervention meta-analyses.

Frontiers in pharmacology, 16:1601204.

OBJECTIVE: This review aimed to determine the therapeutic effects and safety of oral curcumin compared with other comparators for human health and wellbeing outcomes.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from their inception to 18 June 2024. The Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews-2 checklist, and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system were used to assess the methodological and evidence quality for each meta-analysis, respectively. The results are presented in a narrative review.

RESULTS: We included 25 studies. The overall methodological quality was relatively poor, and there is considerable room for improvement. The findings suggest that curcumin has potentially positive effects on lipid profiles, blood pressure, inflammatory markers and oxidative stress, musculoskeletal diseases, emotional and cognitive function, ulcerative colitis, liver and kidney function, primary dysmenorrhea or premenstrual syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, COVID-19, painful statues, and HR-QOL. However, for many diseases, the conclusions remain uncertain.

CONCLUSION: The available evidence suggests that curcumin is a safe medicinal agent that improves multiple clinical outcomes; however, the scientific quality of published studies needs to be improved.

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Abeykoon AMH, Wilson M, Subbarao K, et al (2025)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 shedding in exhaled material: A systematic review.

Epidemiology and infection pii:S0950268825100174 [Epub ahead of print].

RevDate: 2025-06-23

Wang N, Sun L, Qian G, et al (2025)

Neutrophil heterogeneity in Kawasaki disease and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children.

Pediatric research [Epub ahead of print].

Neutrophils, specialized cells of the early innate immune response, are important for maintaining the body's internal homeostasis. Upon invasion by foreign microbes, neutrophils are swiftly activated and recruited to the infection site, where they perform bactericidal functions through phagocytic clearance, degranulation-mediated toxin release, and NADPH oxidase-dependent killing. While their presence is crucial in the early stages of inflammation to combat infection, the prolonged engagement of neutrophils at the infection site can cause tissue damage due to apoptosis and the release of cytotoxic mediators. Neutrophils exhibit significant heterogeneity in response to allostatic conditions, with their phenotypic and functional properties undergoing distinct changes. Therefore, understanding the heterogeneity and diversity of neutrophils under physiological and pathological conditions is important. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a pediatric inflammatory syndrome that emerges following exposure to SARS-CoV-2, while Kawasaki disease (KD) is a childhood systemic vasculitis with unknown etiology. Both conditions share clinical features, including neutrophilia and cardiovascular complications. This suggests the likelihood of overlapping underlying immunopathogenic mechanisms, and neutrophils may play a crucial role in these processes. This review focuses on the heterogeneity and function of neutrophils in KD and MIS-C, providing a comprehensive overview of the current research in this field. IMPACT: Neutrophils exhibit significant heterogeneity under physiological and pathological states. Different neutrophil subsets perform diverse functional characteristics. KD and MIS-C have apparent phenotypic similarities of systemic inflammation and cardiovascular complications. Neutrophil heterogeneity correlates with disease severity, and studies of neutrophil subsets reveal potential shared immunological drivers. Multi-omics analysis of neutrophil heterogeneity helps to better understand neutrophil subsets and discover new functions. Research into MIS-C and KD enhances our understanding of pediatric inflammatory diseases with cardiovascular involvement.

RevDate: 2025-06-19

Bhattacharyya D, J Das Sarma (2025)

The pleiotropic anti-cancer, antiviral, and anti-neuro-immunomodulatory role of methanolic neem bark extract.

Journal of natural medicines [Epub ahead of print].

The miraculous golden tree of the century, neem or Azadirachta indica, has been used in ancient ayurvedic and traditional medicine since the inception of medicinal practices. The phytochemicals present in each part of this tree are known to possess the ability to cure a variety of diseases, from viral, bacterial, and fungal infections and associated pathogenesis to inflammatory diseases, different metabolic disorders, and cancers. Predominant phytochemicals from neem, azadirachtin, nimbin, nimbolide, quercetin, etc., are known to be potent anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and anti-cancer agents. These and many other bio-active compounds from neem restrict the viral spread and replication of β-coronaviruses, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Herpes Simplex Virus, etc. Likewise, neem extracts and bio-active compounds from neem have been targeting cancer cells by restricting their proliferation, survival, and migration and inducing apoptosis, leading to the establishment of neem as a potent anti-cancer agent. Multiple studies have reported neem's efficiency in intervening with inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress pathways, which are known to be linked to viral infections and cancers. In this review, we discuss the role of methanolic neem bark extracts and their bio-active compounds in preventing β-coronavirus mouse hepatitis virus and SARS-CoV-2 replication and spread, and simultaneously the anti-cancer effects exerted by MNBE via activating pro-apoptotic markers, restricting the proliferation and migration of cervical cancer cells, inducing cell cycle arrest.

RevDate: 2025-06-21
CmpDate: 2025-06-19

Yin L, He H, Zhang H, et al (2025)

Revolution of AAV in Drug Discovery: From Delivery System to Clinical Application.

Journal of medical virology, 97(6):e70447.

Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a non-enveloped DNA virus infecting a wide variety of species, tissues, and cell types, which is recognized as a safe and effective method for delivering therapeutic transgenes. AAV vector is the most popular viral gene delivery system in clinical delivery systems with unique and multiple advantages, such as tissue tropism, transduction specificity, long-lasting gene expression, low immune responses, and without host chromosome incorporation. Till now, four AAV-based gene therapy drugs have already been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or European Medicines Agency (EMA). Despite the success of AAV vectors, there are still some remaining challenges that limit further usage, such as poor packaging capacity, low organ specificity, pre-existing humoral immunity, and vector dose-dependent toxicity. In the present review, we address the different approaches to optimize AAV vector delivery system with a focus on capsid engineering, packaging capacity, and immune response at the clinical level. The review further investigates the potential of manipulating AAV vectors in preclinical applications and clinical translation, which emphasizes the challenges and prospects in viral vector selection, drug delivery strategies, immune reactions in cancer, neurodegenerative disease, retinal disease, SARS-CoV-2, and monkeypox. Finally, it forecasts future directions and potential challenges of artificial intelligence (AI), vaccines, and nanobodies, which emphasizes the need for ethical and secure approaches in AAV application.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

Macdonald D, Bigelow-Talbert K, Ross-White A, et al (2025)

Understanding the experiences of birthing care during COVID-19: A qualitative systematic review.

International journal of nursing studies advances, 8:100295.

BACKGROUND: The Covid-19 pandemic was a challenging time for people who sought health care and for health care providers. Throughout the pandemic women and birthing people, families, and health care providers adapted to ongoing changes, restrictions, and new information to ensure that babies were born safely. There was a strong policy focus on safety and the reduction of infection, however this focus did not account for how the changes to birthing care practice would influence the experiences of the people most continuously sharing space during birth - women and birthing people, midwives, and nurses.

OBJECTIVE: To explore and understand the birthing care experiences of women and birthing people, midwives, and nurses.

METHODS: We used the JBI methodology and methods to conduct our qualitative review. We included studies with participants who were women or birthing people, nurses, and midwives who received or provided birthing care during the Covid-19 global pandemic. Studies published between January 2020 and February 2023 were included. Studies had to report qualitative data.

RESULTS: A total of 5694 studies were identified for this review. After duplications were removed, screening and critical appraisal, 26 studies were included. Following meta-aggregation, 3 synthesized findings and 9 categories were created. The synthesized findings are 1) Navigating a pandemic and the chaos of constant changes 2) Striving for business as usual during a pandemic and 3) Amplifying variations in birthing care experiences.

CONCLUSIONS: The experiences and needs of people who provide and receive birthing care must be prioritized in all spaces. Midwives, nurses, women, and birthing people must be included in decision making for changes to practices and policies at all levels, especially during uncertain times. Birth experiences must be respected and supported to ensure that health and wellness outcomes are optimized for families at all stages of the intrapartum, postpartum and early parenting journeys.

REGISTRATION: Registered with Prospero CRD42021292832. An a priori protocol published, Macdonald, D., Snelgrove-Clarke, E., Ross-White, A., & Bigelow-Talbert, K. (2022). The experiences of birthing care during Covid-19: A systematic review protocol. JBI Evidence Synthesis. 20(5): 1353-1360.https://doi.org/10.11124/JBIES-21-00300.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

Asghari KM, Kakavand N, Khosroshahi MT, et al (2025)

Viral Etiologies and Histopathological Features of Olfactory Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.

Health science reports, 8(6):e70917.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Olfactory dysfunction associated with viral infections, including the recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, has raised significant clinical interest. Understanding the viral etiologies and histopathological characteristics of permanent olfactory dysfunction is essential for optimizing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This systematic review aims to synthesize the available evidence on the histopathological features of viral-induced permanent olfactory dysfunction. By focusing on direct viral damage, inflammatory responses, and vascular changes, this study seeks to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of post-viral olfactory impairment.

METHODS: This systematic review adhered to PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024520500). Searches were conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to February 14, 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed observational studies investigating human subjects diagnosed with permanent olfactory dysfunction attributable to viral etiologies. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data using predefined forms, and assessed study quality using NOS, STROBE, and JBI tools.

RESULTS: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Predominant viral etiologies included SARS-CoV-2 and common cold viruses (e.g., adenovirus). Diagnostic tools varied but commonly included clinical evaluations and validated olfactory tests. Histopathological findings revealed diverse nasal tissue alterations, such as mucosal atrophy, inflammatory infiltrates, and neuroepithelial degeneration. SARS-CoV-2 infections demonstrated distinctive neuroepithelial and endothelial pathology contributing to olfactory dysfunction.

CONCLUSION: Viral-induced permanent olfactory dysfunction involves multifaceted histopathological changes, including direct viral neuroinvasion and inflammatory responses. Understanding these pathophysiological mechanisms is crucial for developing targeted interventions and managing long-term sequelae of viral infections affecting olfaction. This systematic review, the first conducted on this topic, underscores the need for further research on viral etiologies beyond COVID-19, as they are currently understudied.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

Cai Y, Kamarudin S, S Nujaimi (2025)

Willingness to share information on social media: a systematic literature review (2020-2024).

Frontiers in psychology, 16:1567506.

INTRODUCTION: The rapid advancement of Web 2.0 technologies, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has fundamentally transformed information sharing behaviors on social media. This transformation necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing information sharing willingness in the digital era.

METHODS: This study systematically reviews 66 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2020 and 2024, focusing on key research topics, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies used to examine information sharing willingness on social media. Following the PRISMA guidelines, articles were identified and analyzed using keyword matching, thematic categorization, and expert review.

RESULTS: Our findings reveal four core research themes: general information sharing, health-related information sharing, false information dissemination, and crisis information sharing. These themes are examined through three primary theoretical perspectives: motivational-driven theories, cognitive-processing theories, and social-relational theories. The study identifies key factors influencing information sharing willingness across motivational, cognitive, and social dimensions. Methodologically, survey-based studies dominate this field, with experimental designs providing supplementary insights.

DISCUSSION: This review contributes to the literature by providing a holistic synthesis of the current research landscape, identifying gaps in knowledge, and proposing potential directions for social media platform operators and policymakers to consider. Future research directions are proposed to address unresolved challenges and advance the theoretical and methodological understanding of information sharing behavior in the digital era.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-19

Azzarone B, Landolina N, Mariotti FR, et al (2025)

Soluble SARS-CoV-2 Spike glycoprotein: considering some potential pathogenic effects.

Frontiers in immunology, 16:1616106.

The soluble S1 subunit of Spike protein (SP) from the SARS-CoV-2 of different variants of concern (VOCs) may directly bind and activate human NK cells in vitro through the engagement of the toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 and TLR4. This mechanism revealed a novel pathogenic role played by NK cells not only in the different phases of disease but also in the post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) and some post-vaccination side effects. In addition to its binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), which mediates virus attachment and cell entry, soluble SP triggers several active receptors/molecules expressed by many cells, inducing, in turn, type I/III interferon decrease, altered autophagy and apoptosis, the release of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, complement activation and endothelial damage, which favour clotting events. In this review, we discuss the hypothesis that circulating SP, exerting multiple biological activities, can explain the heterogeneity of the clinical outcomes of severe COVID-19, PASC and post-vaccine-related effects. Recent reports have clearly indicated that soluble SARS-CoV-2 and post-vaccination SP trigger the same cascade of events, acting on the immune response and promoting defined adverse events. Factors hindering the pathological activity of soluble SP are the SP plasma levels, the age of the infected/vaccinated people and the efficiency of protein synthesis of ectopic targets triggered by soluble SP, as well as the specificity, the titre and the affinity of anti-SP antibodies elicited by the infection. At present, the risk/benefit ratio is largely in favour of vaccination; however, the excessive and persistent ectopic production of synthetic SP should be systematically analysed. This would allow for the identification of subjects at risk for major adverse events and to answer the urgent need for efficient vaccines that provide long-lasting activity with minimal side effects.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

Souissi A, Prieto-González P, H Ben Saad (2025)

Widespread pain syndrome in long COVID-19: melatonin as an adjuvant treatment.

Frontiers in pain research (Lausanne, Switzerland), 6:1609095.

Long coronavirus disease 2019 (LC19) represents a complex global health challenge. Survivors frequently report persistent problems like widespread pain syndrome (WPS), cognitive dysfunction, cardiovascular complications, and sleep disturbances. These health problems, which are worsened by oxidative stress and inflammaging, open the prospect of treatment strategies targeting these mechanisms. Melatonin is a potential option for treating LC19 problems because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-modulating properties. Melatonin targets shared pathological pathways, offering a promising approach to reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and neuroendocrine dysfunction. The present mini-review explores the therapeutic potential of melatonin in the treatment of LC19, focusing on its effects on WPS and inflammation.

RevDate: 2025-06-18

Trollman H, Jagtap S, Tamakloe SD, et al (2025)

Foraging supply chains: Investigating disaster for improved food provisioning.

Ambio [Epub ahead of print].

Disasters such as COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war are drawing attention to the provisioning of food during crises. The main concern has been quickly establishing a stable food supply. However, climate change and public health concerns are shifting attention to the critical gap in identifying the minimal considerations that would adequately address ecological disaster food provisioning. A meta-ethnography of 16 disasters in 12 different countries is employed to identify the activities and their supporting strategies that provide benefits to existing actors within food networks. Analysis suggests that public health, resilience, and sustainability stand to benefit from the identified practices. A conceptual model of an ecologically embedded minimum viable ecosystem for disaster food provisioning is proposed. Exemplar applications are provided for Tigray, Gaza, and Ukraine. The findings may be applied to disaster settings for the development of policy for culturally sensitive, equitable, and nutritious food provisioning strategies.

RevDate: 2025-06-24

Szabó D, Tod P, Maácz F, et al (2025)

Targeting P2X7 mitigates neurobehavioural alterations in a mouse model of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Neuropharmacology, 278:110566 pii:S0028-3908(25)00272-2 [Epub ahead of print].

The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed a significant global health burden, leading to various long-term consequences, including persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms in a substantial proportion of infected individuals. This study investigates the role of the purinergic receptor P2X7 in mediating behaviour changes in a mouse model of post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). We show that infection with a mouse-adapted SARS-CoV-2 strain induces anxiety- and depression-like behaviours in male mice, associated with elevated P2X7 receptor expression in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, as well as increased IFN-γ levels in the striatum. To assess the therapeutic potential of P2X7 antagonism, we administered the selective P2X7 antagonist JNJ 47965567 in vivo. Pretreatment with JNJ 47965567 mitigated the behavioural changes and reduced IFN-γ levels, suggesting a potential therapeutic role for P2X7 antagonists in the management of post-COVID neuropsychiatric symptoms. Our findings support the involvement of neuroinflammation in the symptoms of PASC and highlight the P2X7 pathway as a potential innovative therapeutic target for alleviating anxiety and depression in affected individuals and in other sequelae of post-viral neuropsychiatric conditions.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-18

Zha R, Lu J, Chen J, et al (2025)

Exploring one health-based strategies for rabies elimination: Overview and future prospects.

PLoS neglected tropical diseases, 19(6):e0013159.

BACKGROUND: Establishing a comprehensive and coordinated mechanism for rabies management is essential for achieving the goal of eliminating the disease. It requires the involvement of multiple disciplines and departments, as well as the implementation of necessary policies and measures. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has added further challenges to the goal, particularly for developing countries like China. However, certain regions in China are leveraging local advantages and departmental strengths to actively explore effective strategies.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: This review provides an overview of the global prevalence of rabies, international cooperation efforts, and specific measures. Of particular significance is the analysis of the transformation of the rabies situation in China as well as an exemplar management of a rabies case in the Baiyun District of Guangzhou, Guangdong Province. We also discuss the hopeful action plan based on the One Health concept, aimed at achieving the goal of rabies elimination by 2030.

CONCLUSIONS: Rabies remains a significant threat to public health and economies across most countries worldwide. Despite this, eliminating rabies is increasingly feasible, with China showcasing notable progress, including the adoption of the One Health approach in disease prevention and control strategies.

SYNOPSIS: The distinction between disease eradication and elimination lies in their scope and permanence. Eradication involves globally reducing the incidence of infection caused by a specific agent to zero, requiring no further intervention measures once achieved. In contrast, disease elimination focuses on reducing the incidence of infection within a specific geographic area to zero, necessitating ongoing actions to prevent its transmission or re-emergence. In the long history of humans' battle against infectious diseases, the complete eradication of smallpox has undoubtedly been an inspiring achievement. However, emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases have remained in the forefront of people's minds, causing significant morbidity, mortality, and potential economic burdens in impoverished countries and regions worldwide. It is disappointing that rabies has not been eradicated globally. While high-income countries have achieved the elimination of canine-mediated rabies through dog vaccination and population management programs, there are fewer examples of successful large-scale elimination of canine rabies in low- and middle-income countries, primarily limited to Latin America.

RevDate: 2025-06-18

da Silva MD, da Silva TS, Mendes CG, et al (2025)

Advances in Understanding Long COVID: Pathophysiological Mechanisms and the Role of Omics Technologies in Biomarker Identification.

Molecular diagnosis & therapy [Epub ahead of print].

Long coronavirus disease (COVID) is a multisystem condition that affects a significant proportion of individuals following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, with persistent symptoms ranging from fatigue and cognitive dysfunction to cardiovascular disorders. It is estimated that 30-60% of infected individuals experience symptoms lasting more than 12 weeks. Despite advances in understanding acute infection, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying long COVID remain unclear. Current hypotheses suggest that viral persistence, immune dysfunction, and metabolic alterations play central roles. Omics approaches, including metabolomics, proteomics, and lipidomics, have played a crucial role in investigating molecular changes, identifying biomarkers, and refining therapeutic strategies. This review discusses recent advances in understanding long COVID, addressing its mechanisms, risk factors, the impact of viral variants, and the role of vaccination, with an emphasis on the importance of omics technologies in elucidating this condition.

RevDate: 2025-06-18
CmpDate: 2025-06-18

Dasari D, Singhania RR, Bhatia SK, et al (2025)

Squalene: A High-Value Compound for COVID-19 Vaccine Adjuvants and Beyond Pathways, Production Strategies, and Market Potential.

IUBMB life, 77(6):e70032.

Squalene, a naturally occurring triterpene, has gained significant attention due to its critical role as an adjuvant in COVID-19 vaccines and its broad applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and nutraceuticals. This review explores the potential of squalene production, prompting a shift toward sustainable and innovative approaches. Key biosynthetic pathways across various organisms, including plants, fungi, and microalgae, are analyzed to identify efficient production systems as compared to fast-growing heterotrophic thraustochytrids. Advanced strategies to enhance squalene yields are explored, including the use of chemical enhancers (methyl jasmonate), antioxidants (alpha-tocopherol), cofactor recycling, and squalene epoxidase inhibitors (terbinafine). Additionally, the global market potential of squalene is assessed, highlighting its economic importance and growing demand in the healthcare and cosmetic industries. The challenges of large-scale squalene production are addressed with a focus on sustainable alternatives to shark-derived sources as a high ethical concern. By aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG-3: Good Health and Well-Being), squalene production supports advancements in vaccine development and biotechnological innovations. Future opportunities are highlighted, including novel applications in cancer therapy, functional foods, and anti-aging products, offering pathways to harness its full potential while contributing to a sustainable bioeconomy.

RevDate: 2025-06-18

Powell BH, Witwer KW, MK Meffert (2025)

Cellular miRNAs and viruses: trends in miRNA sequestering and target de-repression.

Journal of virology [Epub ahead of print].

Altered gene regulation downstream of infection has been linked to devastating cancers and neurological diseases, highlighting the importance of understanding viral:host gene interactions. Historically, approaches based on bioinformatic binding prediction showed that host microRNAs (miRNAs) can target and regulate viral genes to impact viral replication and pathogenesis. More recently, Argonaute cross-linking and immunoprecipitation (AGO-CLIP) and advancements incorporating a miRNA:target RNA ligation step (AGO-CLIP + ligation) enable a global view of miRNA interactions with target cellular and viral transcripts. These genome-wide approaches paired with RNA sequencing reveal that miRNA binding to viral transcripts can not only act conventionally to regulate viral replication but can also act to reduce miRNA targeting of host genes with resulting de-repression of host target genes and downstream biological impacts. Viruses with accumulated evidence of miRNA sequestration are selected as examples for review and include hepatitis C virus (HCV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The significant impact of target de-repression on host cellular biology warrants a broader investigation of this mechanism. In this mini-review, we examine examples of crosstalk between host miRNAs and viral transcripts and highlight the advance and potential of analyses from AGO-CLIP + ligation with RNA-seq for expanding the identification of global miRNA:viral target interactions and interrogating the biological impacts of host miRNA sequestering and target de-repression. Host target de-repression by miRNA:viral target interactions could shed light on antiviral therapeutic candidates to aid in mitigating consequences such as malignancies and neurodegeneration.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-18

Quinn GA, Connolly R, ÓhAiseadha C, et al (2025)

What Lessons can Be Learned From the Management of the COVID-19 Pandemic?.

International journal of public health, 70:1607727.

During the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023), governments around the world implemented an unprecedented array of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2. From early 2021, these were accompanied by major population-wide COVID-19 vaccination programmes-often using novel mRNA/DNA technology, although some countries used traditional vaccines. Both the NPIs and the vaccine programmes were apparently justified by highly concerning model projections of how the pandemic could progress in their absence. Efforts to reduce the spread of misinformation during the pandemic meant that differing scientific opinions on each of these aspects inevitably received unequal weighting. In this perspective review, based on an international multi-disciplinary collaboration, we identify major problems with many aspects of these COVID-19 policies as they were implemented. We show how this resulted in adverse impacts for public health, society, and scientific progress. Therefore, we propose seven recommendations to reduce such adverse consequences in the future.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-18

Alsaleh G, Balkhi B, Alahmari A, et al (2025)

The Hajj legacy and Saudi Arabia's exemplary response to COVID-19.

Frontiers in public health, 13:1520179.

The COVID-19 pandemic required strong public health measures globally. Saudi Arabia's effective pandemic management, leveraging its experience with mass gatherings such as the Hajj pilgrimage, has been lauded globally. This study was developed using a narrative synthesis approach, based on a structured review of peer-reviewed literature (PubMed and Scopus) and official sources (Saudi MoH and the WHO) covering March 2020-December 2024. This study examines Saudi Arabia's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular emphasis on the strategies implemented to safeguard the Hajj pilgrimage. The analysis is framed within the context of the World Health Organization's (WHO) COVID-19 After Action Review pillars, providing a structured evaluation of the Kingdom's efforts to mitigate risks and protect both pilgrims and the broader population. Topics covered include country-level coordination, risk communication, surveillance, border health, national laboratory systems, infection prevention, case management, operational support, and essential health services. Findings show that preexisting infrastructure and mass-gathering expertise enabled rapid activation of multisectoral task forces, adaptive risk-communication campaigns, and scalable testing and isolation protocols. The Hajj legacy strengthened laboratory diagnostics and surge staffing, informed border screening algorithms, and guided large-event risk assessments. Integrating mass-gathering experience with WHO's framework fostered resilience to complex health emergencies. Saudi Arabia's model offers actionable insights for other nations seeking to harness cultural and organizational strengths in pandemic preparedness.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

De Maio M, Montenegro S, Papale O, et al (2025)

A scoping review of student Athletes' perspectives on dual career policies, provisions and challenges.

Frontiers in sports and active living, 7:1566208.

Dual career (DC) athletes face significant challenges in balancing dual demands of academic and athletic commitments. A scoping review of 25 studies published between 2014 and 2024 included data from over 3,000 student-athletes across 23 countries, with 88.5% focused on European contexts. Most adopted qualitative (52%) or quantitative (44%) approaches, with one study (4%) using a mixed method. Findings, synthesized using PRISMA guidelines, addressed logistical, social, financial, tutorship, curricula, and policy aspects. Recurring barriers included a lack of flexible educational programs, insufficient financial aid, and limited access to proximate sports and facilities. Social support systems, such as mentorship and institutional committees, emerged as essential for engagement and reducing isolation. European athletes frequently cited the need for improved financial support, highlighting scholarships and fee waivers. During the COVID-19 pandemic, e-learning strategies supported educational adherence and reduced stress, emphasizing their potential as flexible tool for addressing DC demands. However, disparities in policy implementation and service provision persist, with studies identifying cohesive institutional strategies for DC athletes. These findings underscore the need to develop harmonized frameworks across Europe, prioritizing integrated logistical planning, expanded financial support and tailored curricula. Broader perspectives from stakeholders are needed to enable DC athletes to thrive academically and athletically.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-18

Trautmann A (2025)

Core features and inherent diversity of post-acute infection syndromes.

Frontiers in immunology, 16:1509131.

Post-acute infection syndromes (PAIS), i.e., long-lasting pathologies subsequent to infections that do not properly resolve, have both a common core and a broad diversity of manifestations. PAIS include a group of core symptoms (pathological fatigue, cognitive problems, sleep disorders and pain) accompanied by a large set of diverse symptoms. Core and diverse additional symptoms, which can persist for years, exhibiting periods of relapses and remissions, usually start suddenly after an apparently common infection. PAIS display highly variable clinical features depending on the nature of the initial pathogen, and to an even larger extent, on the diversity of preexisting individual terrains in which PAIS are rooted. In a first part, I discuss biological issues related to the persistence of microbial antigens, dysregulated immune responses, reactivation of latent viruses, different potential self-sustained inflammatory loops, mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic disorders in the tryptophan- kynurenin pathway (TKP) with impact on serotonin, and consequences of a dysfunctional bidirectional microbiota-gut-brain axis. The second part deals with the nervous system dependence of PAIS. I rely on the concept of interoception, the process by which the brain senses, integrates and interprets signals originating from within the body, and sends feebacks aimed at maintaining homeostasis. Interoception is central for understanding the origin of fatigue, dysautonomia, dysfunctioning of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and its relation with stress, inflammation or depression. I propose that all individual predispositions leading to self-sustained vicious circles constitute building blocks that can self-assemble in many possible ways, to give rise to both core and diverse features of PAIS. A useful discrimination between different PAIS subtypes should be obtained with a composite profiling including biomarkers, questionnaires and functional tests so as to take into account PAIS multidimensionality.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-18

Xue L, Wang C, C Liu (2025)

Immunomodulatory effects of gut microbiota on vaccine efficacy against respiratory pathogens.

Frontiers in immunology, 16:1618921.

The outbreaks of respiratory pathogens like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza virus (IV) have heightened the demand for highly effective vaccines that provide strong and durable immunity in human populations. However, immune responses to vaccination vary significantly among individuals and populations. Recent studies have demonstrated that the gut microbiota play an essential role in regulating respiratory pathogens vaccination-induced immune responses through the systemic effects of gut-lung axis on distant organs, the lungs. In this review, we first synthesize the changes in gut microbiota composition and immune responses that occur during respiratory pathogen infections and vaccination. Then, we discuss the underlying immunological mechanisms of bidirectional immunomodulatory effects between gut microbiota and vaccines. Finally, we explore the strategies for designing next-generation vaccines against respiratory pathogens in term of gut microbiota-mediated immunological pathway.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

Maziec K, Baliga-Gil A, E Kierzek (2025)

Delivery strategies for RNA-targeting therapeutic nucleic acids and RNA-based vaccines against respiratory RNA viruses: IAV, SARS-CoV-2, RSV.

Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids, 36(3):102572.

Therapeutic nucleic acids, including small interfering RNA (siRNA), and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), targeting RNA viruses such as influenza A virus (IAV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), play a crucial role in contemporary medicine. The primary goal of short oligonucleotide-based antivirals is to precisely inhibit viral mechanisms by interacting with viral RNA, thereby opening new avenues for infection treatment. RNA recently was also used to invent mRNA vaccine for different illness prevention. Therapeutic nucleic acids and mRNA vaccine attracted considerable attention during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the pressing necessity to develop an effective strategy to address this global threat. In addition to the advancement of therapeutic nucleic acids aimed at targeting respiratory viruses, the effective delivery of these molecules to infected cells is of paramount importance. Similarly, mRNA vaccine's effectiveness also depends on effective delivery. This article offers a comprehensive summary and analysis of various delivery strategies, along with the challenges encountered in their development. Representative studies conducted in cellular models, model organisms, and human are presented for examination. Furthermore, the article explores future perspectives regarding the delivery of therapeutic nucleic acids and mRNA vaccines aimed at combating IAV, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

de Vries TJ, Crouwel KL, Vogelzang E, et al (2025)

Transforming dental education: interactive and student-centered learning with team-based learning in the undergraduate program.

Frontiers in medicine, 12:1579237.

World-wide, educational curricula have made a transition toward (inter)active student-centered learning and teaching. To incorporate consistency within a curricular reform, it is important to make choices that are applied to all courses. Here we describe the implementation of team-based learning (TBL), an effective educational approach for activated learning at a dental school. TBL stimulates students to participate actively in their own learning process. This team-oriented method fosters problem solving, critical academic reasoning, clinical decision-making and communication skills among students, already early in their educational career. In the first year of the undergraduate program, TBL was introduced as a mandatory component, constituting 10% of the teaching activities and overall grade. To facilitate this transition, a dedicated team of teachers and educationalists (the TBL team) was formed to prepare the transition. The initial step involved establishing a TBL course and conducting training sessions for faculty to familiarize them with this new teaching methodology. Teachers received constructive feed-back on their own TBL application session. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, TBL was introduced as an online variant, requiring close collaboration with IT-services. Halfway through the academic year, the implementation was evaluated through separate panel discussions with students and teachers separately. Overall, TBL was perceived favorably by both staff and students. Students appreciated the team work and noted that TBL added value to their learning process. This was also the outcome of the end of the academic years' student survey on TBL, where especially questions on collaborative teamwork scored 4.22 on average on a 1-5 Likert's Scale. TBL was inspiring for teachers, the student teams of TBL provided a safe environment for students to voice their thoughts. The activating nature of TBL was recognized as beneficial, though it requires continuous effort and motivation from instructors. Coaching and guiding were perceived as highly effective instructional methods. Some teachers acknowledged the challenge of transitioning from a traditional "one-person" show approach to a more collaborative teaching style. Both evaluations facilitated further refinement of the TBL approach. Particularly, during the social intercourse-deprived Covid-19 era, the fixed-groups format of TBL helped students to experience a sense of belonging.

RevDate: 2025-06-20

Alp MeÅŸe E, Carrara E, Tartari E, et al (2025)

Prioritizing isolation precautions: a patient-centered approach to infection prevention and control.

Antimicrobial stewardship & healthcare epidemiology : ASHE, 5(1):e123.

Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens present significant challenges to global health, exacerbated by emerging threats such as SARS-CoV-2 and the growing immunocompromised population. While isolation precautions are critical for infection prevention and control (IPC), their indiscriminate application can strain resources and impact patient well-being. This review proposes a patient-centered framework for optimizing isolation strategies by integrating pathogen-related factors, individual patient risks, and healthcare facility resources to optimize isolation precautions. By incorporating targeted risk assessments, advanced analytics (e.g., omics and machine learning), and infection preventionist leadership, this approach aligns isolation measures with clinical and operational realities. It aims to enhance IPC efficacy while balancing patient needs and resource efficiency. We highlight strategies to ensure isolation precautions remain evidence-based, adaptable, and sustainable within healthcare settings. A patient-focused approach to isolation improves both infection prevention and overall quality of patient care.

RevDate: 2025-06-18

Oti VB, Ranasinghe V, Dyer BP, et al (2025)

Assessment of the effectiveness of intranasal antiviral therapies in preclinical SARS-CoV-2 infection mouse models: a systematic review.

Expert opinion on drug delivery [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: Intranasally (IN) administered antiviral therapies have emerged as a promising approach to combating SARS-CoV-2 respiratory tract infections. This systematic review aims to examine published preclinical animal studies that report anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects because of IN-delivered antiviral drugs between 1 December 2019 and 1 March 2025.

METHODS: Our analysis revealed 36 relevant studies out of 792 identified studies. Importantly, 15 out of the 36 selected studies performed prophylactic and post-exposure IN treatments in preclinical animal models.

RESULTS: Our systematic analysis revealed six classes of IN-delivered antiviral therapeutics that significantly improved in vivo survival and reduced target organ viremia with minimal side effects in mice. Antiviral interventions resulted in animal body weight recovery (27 studies), better clinical survival (14 studies) and reduced organ viral loads (infectious viral titers (13 studies) and RNA viral loads (27 studies)). Out of these, one study reported negative outcomes of IN interventions, significant weight loss (one study) and poorer mouse survival (two studies).

CONCLUSIONS: Our systematic analysis revealed a moderate association between IN antiviral therapies and clinical and antiviral efficacy. Though the evidence supports the effectiveness of IN antiviral therapies in preclinical models, translation to clinical efficacy in humans remains uncertain.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION: CRD42024492039.

RevDate: 2025-06-18

Sakurai T, Sugimoto T, H Arai (2025)

Multidomain interventions for prevention of dementia: Achievements, challenges and future perspectives.

Geriatrics & gerontology international [Epub ahead of print].

With the aging of the population, the number of persons with dementia is expected to increase worldwide, making the establishment of preventive strategies for dementia an urgent issue. Several modifiable risk factors for dementia are known, and multidomain interventions that simultaneously intervene in multiple risks are becoming mainstream. This review aimed to overview multidomain intervention trials reported to date and ongoing trials regarding current challenges and future goals. Five multidomain intervention trials were published between 2015 and 2019, including the Finnish Geriatric Intervention Study to Prevent Cognitive Impairment and Disability (FINGER), but consistent cognitive improvements were not evident. In the 2020s, seven of 10 trials reported the beneficial effects of multidomain interventions on cognitive outcomes in older adults. The other three trials failed to show significant cognitive improvement, partly due to the devastating impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Pre-specified subanalysis showed improvements in dementia risk factors, such as physical inactivity and nutritional status. These results suggest that multidomain interventions can protect against cognitive decline in older adults at risk for dementia. The World-Wide FINGERS Network was launched in 2017 to adapt and optimize findings to various geographic, cultural and economic settings, and to develop a global network of researchers working on preventing cognitive decline. Further development of the multidomain intervention is needed to enable social implementation considering the targets, delivery methods, scalability and cost-effectiveness. Hopefully, in the future, dementia will be treated similarly to cardiovascular disease in terms of early detection and early intervention. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; ••: ••-••.

RevDate: 2025-06-17

García-Gimenez JL, Ruiz-Rodríguez JC, Ferrer R, et al (2025)

Circulating histones as clinical biomarkers in critically ill conditions.

FEBS letters [Epub ahead of print].

Extracellular histones, primarily nuclear proteins involved in chromatin organization, have emerged as key mediators in pathological processes in critically ill patients. When released into circulation due to cell death mechanisms such as NETosis, histones act as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), contributing to excessive inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, immune response dysregulation, coagulation activation, cell death, and multi-organ damage. Increasing evidence supports their role in the pathophysiology of sepsis, acute lung injury, cardiac injury, pancreatitis, and other life-threatening conditions. Given their strong association with disease severity and prognosis, circulating histones have gained attention as potential clinical biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring in critically ill patients. This review discusses the biological roles of extracellular histones, their potential as biomarkers, different approaches to measure them, and emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at neutralizing or removing circulating histones to improve patient outcomes in severe medical conditions. Impact statement This review highlights extracellular histones as key mediators and biomarkers in sepsis, proposing their use in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. Integrating quantitative proteomics for the detection of circulating histones may enhance patient stratification and guide therapeutic strategies, advancing personalized medicine in critical care.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Zhang M, Yang J, Li Y, et al (2025)

Minimum Data Set and Metadata for Active Vaccine Safety Surveillance: Systematic Review.

JMIR public health and surveillance, 11:e63161 pii:v11i1e63161.

BACKGROUND: Active vaccine safety surveillance (AVSS) stands as a top priority for the World Health Organization (WHO), serving as a critical indicator of the fourth maturity level for national regulatory agencies.

OBJECTIVE: This review aims to define the minimal data scope for association studies in vaccine safety, providing a reference framework for implementing AVSS systems worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

METHODS: The study systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for cohort and case-control studies related to AVSS published between January 1, 2018, and September 7, 2022. Guided by the WHO and Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences guidelines (CIOMS), we developed a 4D framework for Minimum Data Sets (MDSs), including "Vaccine," "Outcome," "Demographic Data," and "Covariate." Variables with a frequency of at least 5% were included in the MDS.

RESULTS: Of the 123 included studies, 102 (82.9%) were cohort studies and 98 (79.7%) originated from high-income countries, covering populations across the entire life course. The MDS for COVID-19 vaccines identified 54 variables, while the MDS for maternal populations included 96 variables. WHO guidelines were found to align better with practical applications compared to CIOMS guidelines, though both require further optimization based on the MDS findings. However, metadata for these essential variables were inadequately described across the studies.

CONCLUSIONS: The proposed MDS provides clear guidance and concise requirements for AVSS data scope. Establishing a globally standardized MDS and comprehensive metadata based on these findings is essential to enhancing the global vaccine safety ecosystem.

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

Alghadhban A, Ramadan RA, M Alazmi (2025)

Advancing respiratory disease diagnosis: A deep learning and vision transformer-based approach with a novel X-ray dataset.

Computers in biology and medicine, 194:110501.

With the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases such as pneumonia and COVID-19, timely and accurate diagnosis is critical. This paper makes significant contributions to the field of respiratory disease classification by utilizing X-ray images and advanced machine learning techniques such as deep learning (DL) and Vision Transformers (ViT). First, the paper systematically reviews the current diagnostic methodologies, analyzing the recent advancement in DL and ViT techniques through a comprehensive analysis of the review articles published between 2017 and 2024, excluding short reviews and overviews. The review not only analyses the existing knowledge but also identifies the critical gaps in the field as well as the lack of diversity of the comprehensive and diverse datasets for training the machine learning models. To address such limitations, the paper extensively evaluates DL-based models on publicly available datasets, analyzing key performance metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Our evaluations reveal that the current datasets are mostly limited to the narrow subsets of pulmonary diseases, which might lead to some challenges, including overfitting, poor generalization, and reduced possibility of using advanced machine learning techniques in real-world applications. For instance, DL and ViT models require extensive data for effective learning. The primary contribution of this paper is not only the review of the most recent articles and surveys of respiratory diseases and DL models, including ViT, but also introduces a novel, diverse dataset comprising 7867 X-ray images from 5263 patients across three local hospitals, covering 49 distinct pulmonary diseases. The dataset is expected to enhance DL and ViT model training and improve the generalization of those models in various real-world medical image scenarios. By addressing the data scarcity issue, this paper paves the for more reliable and robust disease classification, improving clinical decision-making. Additionally, the article highlights the critical challenges that still need to be addressed, such as dataset bias and variations of X-ray image quality, as well as the need for further clinical validation. Furthermore, the study underscores the critical role of DL in medical diagnosis and highlights the necessity of comprehensive, well-annotated datasets to improve model robustness and clinical reliability. Through these contributions, the paper provides the basis and foundation of future research on respiratory disease diagnosis using AI-driven methodologies. Although the paper tries to cover all the work done between 2017 and 2024, this research might have some limitations of this research, including the review period before 2017 might have foundational work. At the same time, the rapid development of AI might make the earlier methods less relevant.

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

Baird S, Holmes EC, Ashley CL, et al (2025)

The Batalogue: an overview of betacoronaviruses with future pandemic potential.

FEMS microbiology reviews, 49:.

The coronavirus disease-19 pandemic has intensified interest in the global diversity of RNA viruses and their ability to jump hosts, with a notable expansion in the number of known betacoronaviruses in wild mammalian species, particularly bats. This has enabled vaccine development research to shift its focus to include a range of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-1 and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 related viruses from animal species, with the intention of developing broadly protective coronavirus vaccines and therapeutics. However, there is currently a lack of synthesis of this expanding knowledge base of viruses with potential to cause another severe disease outbreak. This has led to many vaccine trials considering protection against a small subset of known betacoronaviruses that poorly approximate the true diversity of this group of viruses. This review aims to synthesize information gained from the recent surge in betacoronavirus characterization, providing a catalogue of viruses exhibiting features that pose a risk to public health, together with a framework for assessing their likelihood of emergence and subsequent transmission through human populations. This information will help inform global pandemic preparedness measures before a novel betacoronavirus outbreak occurs.

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

Evans C, Clancy G, Evans K, et al (2025)

How to Implement Digital Clinical Consultations in UK Maternity Care: the ARM@DA Realist Review.

Health and social care delivery research, 13(22):1-77.

BACKGROUND: Digital transformation is a key component within the National Health Service Maternity Transformation Programme. The COVID-19 pandemic led to an acceleration of digital innovation, in particular, the use of digital clinical consultations (telephone/video consultations). The ways in which digital clinical consultations can be optimised and utilised alongside the traditional maternity care pathway remains unclear, however, with particular concerns about the potential for digital care to exacerbate inequalities.

OBJECTIVE: To explore how digital clinical consultations can be implemented in a clinically safe, appropriate and acceptable way within UK maternity services? For whom? In what settings? And for what purposes?

DESIGN: A realist synthesis combining an evidence review of diverse sources (2010 to the present) from Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries with insights from key stakeholder groups (healthcare professionals, service users and community organisations).

DATA SOURCES: There were three main sources: (1) published primary and secondary research; (2) grey literature (such as policy documents and maternity safety reports); and (3) stakeholder insights.

METHODS: A realist synthesis adopts a theory-driven approach which seeks to understand how a complex programme works, for whom and under what circumstances. The review had three iterative phases: (1) refining the review focus and developing initial programme theories; (2) retrieval of evidence for data extraction and analysis (using on a realist logic to identify key contexts, mechanisms and outcomes); and (3) testing and refining the programme theories.

RESULTS: The final synthesis included 93 evidence sources (reviews, reports and 77 primary studies), with priority given to UK-focused studies. Study samples included a focus on healthcare professionals (n = 17), women (n = 45, of which 14 focused on vulnerable groups) or both (n = 15). Clinical and safety-related outcomes were reported in 12 studies. Fifteen programme theories were developed. A conceptual framework was produced that illustrates the inter-relationship between key contexts in maternity care through which different interactions activate mechanisms to produce outcomes of interest. The findings suggest that digital clinical consultations can be acceptable and appropriate if implementation includes personalisation and informed choice for women, as well as support and autonomy for staff. The relationship and connection between women and their healthcare professional are proposed as key mechanisms that support safety and engagement in care.

LIMITATIONS: Some of the evidence lacked details regarding specific settings, interventions or sample characteristics. This limits the extent to which findings can be applied to micro-level contexts. Stakeholder groups contributed key insights to the review at all stages. In spite of efforts to achieve diversity within these groups, there may have been experiences or identities that were missed.

CONCLUSIONS: Four 'CORE' implementation principles were identified to guide future practice and research: C - Creating the right environment, infrastructure and support for staff; O - Optimising consultations to be responsive, flexible and personalised to different needs and preferences; R - Recognising the importance of access and inclusion; and E - Enabling quality and safety through relationship-focused connections.

FUTURE WORK: Future research should embed equity considerations and should focus on understanding digital clinical consultation within specific maternity systems (like triage/helplines), services (such as specialist outpatient clinics) or groups of women (e.g. with digital literacy or communication needs).

FUNDING: This synopsis presents independent research funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health and Social Care Delivery Research as award number NIHR134535.

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

García-Valdés L, Al Wattar BH, García-Valdés M, et al (2025)

Quality of clinical practice guidelines on the COVID-19 management in pregnancy during the pandemic: a systematic review.

European journal of public health, 35(3):423-433.

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted maternity care, highlighting the need for rapid, high-quality clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to ensure safe care for pregnant women. We assessed the quality and recommendations of CPGs related to COVID-19 in pregnancy. Following prospective registration (PROSPERO number: CRD42022346031) we searched Medline, Web of Science, and UpToDate from inception until July 2024. The methodological quality was appraised using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II). A total of 27 CPGs were included. High scores were achieved in scope and purpose (21/27, 78%) and clarity (17/27, 63%). The most poorly addressed domains were rigour of development and applicability to clinical practice (18/27, 67% and 19/27, 70% scored low quality, respectively). Overall, only four (15%) guidelines were recommended. Most CPGs (25/27, 93%) addressed COVID-19 screening and transmission prevention, but few covered psychological care (3/27, 11%) or maternal delivery preferences (4/21, 19%). Consensus was found on timing and mode of delivery (16/17, 94%), but there was disagreement on delayed cord clamping and virus transmission interventions. Evidence-based practice requires health care providers, patients and stakeholders to be aware of variations in both the quality and recommendations of CPGs, especially during times of uncertainty.

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

Fagundo-Rivera J, García-Lozano MS, Portero-Prados FJ, et al (2025)

Barriers to healthcare access for irregular immigrants after their arrival in Spain: a systematic review.

European journal of public health, 35(3):407-422.

Examining the barriers encountered by irregular immigrants in accessing the public health system is crucial for the continuity of healthcare processes. This approach not only heightens patient-centered care but also fosters long-term public health preparedness and social cohesion. The aim of this review was to examine the existing barriers to accessing the Spanish healthcare system for the immigrant population. A systematic review of original articles was conducted based on the PRISMA methodology. Studies registered in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, LILACS, Web of Science, and Enfispo were analyzed. A total of 4773 articles were identified, of which 15 were selected for review. Among the selected articles, 10 employed qualitative methodologies, 1 utilized a mixed methodology, and 4 used quantitative methodologies. A variety of access barriers related to communication, administrative issues, and misinformation about legal aspects were identified. It was noted that one in five immigrants has experienced at least one barrier to accessing the Spanish healthcare system. Barriers to access to the health system are clearly shared by both immigrants and healthcare professionals. Barriers to access to the health system are a result of the coalition of organizational factors, cultural experiences, and socioeconomic and educational determinants. Access to healthcare for irregular migrants in Spain is hindered by language barriers, misinformation, and administrative obstacles, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Policies are needed to ensure equitable care, enhance communication, streamline procedures, and strengthen collaboration with non-governmental organizations and cultural mediators to optimize healthcare responses.

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

Balasubaramaniam D, Yi Wen L, Amir NN, et al (2025)

Corneal Perforation Associated with Pembrolizumab - A Case Report with Literature Review.

Ocular immunology and inflammation, 33(5):868-870.

PURPOSE: To shed light on one of the ocular adverse effects related to pembrolizumab.

METHOD: Case report and literature review.

RESULT: A 53-year-old gentleman with underlying Stage III B renal cell carcinoma with lung metastasis and gout presented in June 2021 with bilateral red eyes following Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccination. He had undergone a nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma and was on Pembrolizumab therapy for 5 years. Examination showed right eye injected conjunctiva with diffuse punctate epithelial erosions over the cornea, which was treated with topical steroids. The left eye is suspected to have infective keratitis, which is treated with topical antibiotics and subsequently steroids for the ocular surface inflammation. However, he developed a left eye paracentral sterile corneal melt which rapidly progressed to perforation measuring 1 mm in size. The perforation was temporarily sealed with tissue glue, but he eventually required a full thickness corneal patch graft. Patient has been doing well post-operatively for the last 3 years.

CONCLUSION: The diagnosis and management of irAEs are challenging and necessitate continuously updated diagnostic and monitoring tools. As checkpoint inhibitors become more promising in the management of malignancies, it is crucial for both the oncologist and ophthalmologist to be aware of the potential ocular adverse effects of these drugs.

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

Fu J, Zhang Q, Liu S, et al (2025)

Rapid Amplification and Detection of Single-Stranded Nucleic Acids for Point-of-Care Diagnosis.

Small methods, 9(6):e2401733.

Nucleic acid detection plays a crucial role in various applications, including disease diagnostics, research development, food safety, and environmental health monitoring. A rapid, point-of-care (POC) nucleic acid test can greatly benefit healthcare system by providing timely diagnosis for effective treatment and patient management, as well as supporting diseases surveillance for emerging pandemic diseases. Recent advancements in nucleic acids technology have led to rapid assays for single-stranded nucleic acids that can be integrated into simple and miniaturized platforms for ease of use. In this review, the study focuses on the developments in isothermal amplification, nucleic acid hybridization circuits, various enzyme-based signal reporting mechanisms, and detection platforms that show promise for POC testing. The study also evaluates critical technical breakthroughs to identify the advantages and disadvantages of these methods in various applications.

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

Bart J, Phillips C, Bailey M, et al (2025)

Scoping Review of Wounds in Hospitalized Adults with COVID-19 over the First 3 Years of the Pandemic.

Advances in skin & wound care, 38(6):326-332.

OBJECTIVE: To synthesize the literature on skin failure and pressure injuries (PIs) among hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

DATA SOURCES: An electronic literature search using relevant keywords and controlled vocabulary was conducted in March 2023 on MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL. Manual citation searches of included articles and gray literature, including the Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society website were performed. Articles published in English between 2020 and April 2023 were considered.

STUDY SELECTION: Articles were included if they reported on hospitalized adults who were COVID-19 positive with wounds that were not present upon admission. A total of 31 articles met these criteria.

DATA EXTRACTION: Covidence was used to extract article data, including publication information; study aims and design; participant characteristics; wound characteristics, location, and diagnosis; care setting; clinical outcomes; and clinical and research implications.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Of the 31 studies, 27 reported new onset skin lesions during hospitalization. Wounds were classified as PIs, skin failure, livedo racemosea, and/or, retiform purpura, and were associated with microvascular thrombosisthrombotic vasculopathy. Most PIs were associated with prone positioning, and affected patients often had multiple comorbidities including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, end-stage renal disease, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. Four articles highlighted an increased risk of new onset wounds, and three emphasized the importance of distinguishing deep tissue PIs from ischemic-related lesions in patients with COVID-19.

CONCLUSIONS: The evidence suggests an increased risk of ischemic lesions and PIs in patients with COVID-19 infection. This phenomenon may have inflated the numbers of PIs reported during the pandemic and adversely affected nursing quality measures in acute care environments.

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

Perri A, Bossio S, Rago V, et al (2025)

NLRP3-inflammasome activation in male reproductive system diseases.

Minerva endocrinology, 50(2):227-236.

The nucleotide-binding domain, leucine-rich containing family, pyrin domain-containing-3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, a multiprotein complex belonging to the innate immune system, plays a key role in the chronic inflammatory response through the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β and IL-18, which can elicit their effects through receptor activation, both locally and systemically. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated the interaction of NLRP3 inflammasome components with redox signaling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and mitochondrial function. A growing literature reported the involvement of NLRP3 platform dysregulation in the pathophysiology of different chronic diseases so it has been proposed that the inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome could represent a new potential therapeutic target in the management of autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases, including cancer. In addition, it has been demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 preferentially activates NLRP3 inflammasome, strongly contributing to the hyperinflammatory state responsible for COVID-19. Recently, in-vitro and animal models of both infectious and non-infectious male genital tract diseases affecting fertility, demonstrated the activation of the innate immune system, leading to increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as well as apoptosis and pyroptosis and that it was likely mediated by activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. The objective of this review was to analyze the evidence on the role and the mechanisms by which NLRP3-inflammasome pathway activation may exert detrimental effects on the male reproductive system. Furthermore, although the literature data are still discordant, this review also highlighted the possible connection between SARS-CoV-2 infection/NLRP3 activation/oxidative stress and male infertility.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Sommers T, Dockery M, Burke N, et al (2025)

Building trust and equity in vaccine communication through community engagement.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 21(1):2518636.

That the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated inequities in health has been well studied in recent years, yet the ways in which the pandemic has also revealed existing inequities in communication, specifically health communication, is less well understood. Communities experience differing levels of basic literacy, health literacy, and access to information, as well as differing levels of trust in public health programs. Community engagement (CE) strategies are critical to support improved communication, trust, and equity in vaccination programs. This paper shares two real-world examples of impactful CE strategies from community-based programming to explore how well-designed community engagement strategies can support improved communication, trust, and equity in vaccination programming. Lessons learned from these programs highlight that vaccine communication programs should continuously engage communities to amplify community perspectives and voices to ensure sustained vaccine demand and uptake.

RevDate: 2025-06-18
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Zusman SP, C Paganelli (2025)

Interprofessional Dental Care: An International Perspective.

JDR clinical and translational research, 10(1_suppl):11S-16S.

The COVID-19 pandemic enhanced the known importance of good interprofessional communication and cooperation to ensure proper patient care. In dentistry, there is often no proper integration across teaching, research, and care. There is too little communication and cooperation among the members of the dental team and the health care team in general. There is a critical need to improve coordination and cooperation among dental professionals and with medical professionals in general. Health in all policies should include addressing interprofessional medical and dental care at all stages of professional human resource training and service planning. Dentists should play a leadership role since they are frontline professionals in the prevention, early detection, and treatment of oral and systemic diseases.Knowledge Transfer Statement:Postgraduate dental training programs can use the recommendations from this article to improve clinical teaching and ensure the education and competency of dental residents.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Aurer I, Moss P, Goldman M, et al (2025)

COVID-19 burden of illness in people who are immunocompromised due to cancer: an expert opinion review.

The oncologist, 30(6):.

From the beginning of the pandemic, people with cancer have experienced a high burden from COVID-19 compared with the general population, both in terms of severe COVID-19-related outcomes and reduced health-related quality of life and mental health. This review presents and discusses expert views on the burden of COVID-19 in individuals with cancer throughout the pandemic. The literature suggests that early in the pandemic, people with cancer had a disproportionately high risk of COVID-19-related hospitalization compared with the general population. This trend continued throughout the pandemic, even after the availability of vaccinations (including boosters) and the emergence of less virulent strains. Rates of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, and mechanical ventilation varied across studies but were all seen to be higher in people with cancer and COVID-19 compared with the general population or those with cancer alone. Moreover, studies indicated worsened quality of life and mental health in these people during the pandemic and lockdown periods compared with prepandemic or postlockdown periods. Although COVID-19 has entered the endemic phase and is no longer a global health emergency, it remains a significant risk for people with cancer. Generally, COVID-19 continues to increase healthcare resource use, impair mental health, and reduce quality of life in this population, highlighting the need for continued real-world studies. Ongoing research is essential to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on vaccinated people with cancer, particularly those undergoing systemic cancer therapy who may require continued guidance on preventive measures and treatments to mitigate the risk of severe COVID-19.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Karaboue M, Cecannecchia C, Dimauro E, et al (2025)

The Era of Pandemics and the Need for Readjustment of National Health Systems.

La Clinica terapeutica, 176(3):386-390.

The last few years have been marked by true upheavals in the organization of both public and private healthcare systems. These upheavals have had their epicenter in the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the organization of healthcare systems. Additionally, the management of healthcare resources, the methods of medical-scientific communication, medical professional responsibility, and the maintenance of adequate equity and equality have also been destabilized and questioned. It is crucial to understand how much our healthcare systems have benefited from recent events and how prepared they are for future, potential, and likely new challenges that may arise in the coming years. Unfortunately, many of the issues high-lighted during the pandemic phase have yet to be addressed, and new challenges have likely emerged. This situation inevitably exposes the healthcare systems to the creation of new vulnerabilities, which could lead to serious consequences concerning inequality, the professional responsibility of individual doctors and healthcare structures, and the overall sustainability of national healthcare systems.

RevDate: 2025-06-18

Bushi G, Gaidhane AM, Vadia N, et al (2025)

Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Menstrual Irregularities, Bleeding Patterns, and Cycle Duration: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Health science reports, 8(6):e70882.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 vaccination has raised concerns regarding its potential effects on women's reproductive health, particularly menstrual irregularities. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on menstrual disturbances, bleeding patterns, and cycle duration among women of reproductive age.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted up to April 11, 2025. The study protocol was registered with the PROSPERO (CRD42024500832). Studies reporting menstrual changes postvaccination in women aged 13-50 were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Meta-analyses using random-effects models were conducted in R (version 4.3), with heterogeneity assessed using the I² statistic.

RESULTS: Out of 586 records, 43 studies comprising 747,763 women met the inclusion criteria. The pooled RR for menstrual disturbances in vaccinated versus unvaccinated women was 1.03 (95% CI: 0.67-1.57; p = 0.88), indicating no significant association. Excluding one outlier increased the RR to 1.14 (95% CI: 0.97-1.34; p = 0.08). The overall pooled prevalence of menstrual disturbances postvaccination was 34% (95% CI: 26%-43%). Among vaccinated women, lighter bleeding was reported in 12.6%, heavier bleeding in 15.1%, irregular menstruation in 19.0%, and regular cycles in 56.6%. Shortened cycles occurred in 8.5%, longer cycles in 9.3%, amenorrhea (≥ 24 days) in 9.2%, and infrequent cycles (> 38 days) in 11.0%. All analyses showed high heterogeneity (I² = 98%-100%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of findings, though Egger's test indicated potential publication bias (p = 0.0384).

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 vaccination was not significantly associated with an increased risk of menstrual disturbances. Although minor changes such as altered bleeding patterns and cycle length were observed in some women, the overall impact on menstrual health was minimal.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Jin DL, Go DS, SJ Yoon (2025)

Longitudinal Perspectives on Health and Medical Research in Korea: Strengths and Limitations of Key Panel Datasets.

Journal of Korean medical science, 40(23):e194.

Rapid population ageing, the growing burden of chronic diseases, and evolving healthcare demands have heightened the need for robust longitudinal data to support evidence-based health policy and interventions. Longitudinal panel surveys, which repeatedly collect data from the same individuals over extended periods, offer detailed insights into dynamic health-related changes and their determinants. South Korea has established numerous national panel surveys over recent decades; however, systematic comparative assessments across these surveys-particularly concerning their health-related variables and adaptations during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic-are lacking. We systematically reviewed eleven major Korean longitudinal panel surveys, focusing on health-related variables and COVID-19 modules. Key variables included health status, chronic diseases, lifestyle behaviors, healthcare utilization, and mental health measures. COVID-19 adaptations such as infection history, vaccination status, and socioeconomic impacts were also examined using official documentation. The findings revealed considerable variability among the surveys in the range and depth of health variables captured, reflecting distinct target populations and research objectives. Surveys focused on specific demographic groups (older adults, children, women, and people with disabilities) tended to provide more comprehensive coverage of health indicators and incorporated specialized instruments (e.g., CES-D, EQ-5D). Conversely, general population-based panels demonstrated substantial variability. COVID-19-specific adaptations varied significantly: while certain surveys (Korean Labor and Income Panel Study, Korea Health Panel Survey, Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women and Families, Korean Children and Youth Panel Survey) included explicit pandemic-related modules capturing infection histories, vaccinations, and changes in work and family dynamics, others relied on indirect reflections through existing measures. This comprehensive comparative analysis identifies notable strengths and gaps among Korea's major longitudinal panel surveys in health data collection and COVID-19 responsiveness. Enhanced standardization of survey instruments and targeted data harmonization efforts are recommended to optimize these resources for future health policy development, epidemiological research, and effective public health interventions.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-17

Shinn J, Jung Y, Kim JY, et al (2025)

Evolving Regulations in Telemedicine Pilot Project: Insights Into Law, Practice, and Patient Care through International Case Studies.

Journal of Korean medical science, 40(23):e181.

The primary focus of this research is the evolving landscape of telemedicine policies and practices across various countries, with particular attention to recent initiatives in South Korea. This study is crucial for understanding the implications of institutionalizing telemedicine, especially following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It aims to ensure the delivery of quality medical services through remote healthcare systems. The objectives include analyzing changes in international telemedicine policies post-COVID-19, comparing these changes with South Korea's policies, and identifying best practices for the domestic institutionalization of telemedicine. The research examines telemedicine policies and practices in South Korea, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, and Australia. Key variables analyzed are eligibility for telemedicine, types of diseases treated, telemedicine platforms, drug prescriptions, drug delivery, responsibility for telemedicine, and cost. Data were collected from policy documents, legal frameworks, and pilot project outcomes and were analyzed to identify trends, differences, and potential areas for policy development. Telemedicine policies vary significantly among countries, with different approaches to patient eligibility, disease types treated, platforms used, prescription and delivery of drugs, legal responsibilities, and costs. South Korea's telemedicine policy is in its early stage, recently expanding to include all patients with prior face-to-face treatment within six months. The initial hypotheses that telemedicine policies are rapidly evolving and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach were supported. The findings suggest that telemedicine is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration of various medical, legal, and technological aspects. South Korea's approach to telemedicine should be customized to its unique healthcare environment, focusing on patient health and alignment with national healthcare priorities. Future research should explore the development of a comprehensive system for telemedicine that addresses patient needs, provider capabilities, and regulatory requirements, with an emphasis on creating a global benchmark for personalized telemedicine.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-16

Ragusa MA, Tortosa F, Monteiro M, et al (2025)

Health-related SDGs in the national science agendas of Latin America and the Caribbean: a scoping review.

International journal for equity in health, 24(1):177.

BACKGROUND: The national science and technology agendas (NSTAs) of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are crucial for formulating and implementing public policies by providing a strategic framework that guides state actions and priorities. The objective of this scoping review is to examine health-related targets from the national science and technology agendas (NSTA) of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), in accordance with the United Nations' third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-3), as well as within the frameworks of innovation and risk management and emergencies.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted, including policy documents issued between 2013 and 2023 by governmental science and technology authorities. The search strategy included government and international organization websites. A total of 108 documents were identified.

RESULTS: Sixteen NSTAs were selected. Health-related targets aligned with SDG-3 were highlighted, particularly in areas such as communicable diseases and drug and vaccine development, but there was limited representation in public health and health systems. Innovations in health science and technology included diagnostic technologies, health products and artificial intelligence. Risk management for health emergencies and disasters was present in a minority of the agendas, with a focus on natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: This analysis provides a comprehensive view of the representation of health in NSTAs in LACs, highlighting common objectives among countries to foster collaboration, optimize research and innovation, and identify gaps in components necessary to enhance population health, such as disaster management, public health, and health systems.

REGISTRATION: This scoping review was not registered.

RevDate: 2025-06-16
CmpDate: 2025-06-16

Jim J, DA Rigberg (2025)

Interview format: Current state and future directions.

Seminars in vascular surgery, 38(2):202-206.

Applicant interviews remain an integral part of the match process used in graduate medical education. In vascular surgery, in-person interviews of the applicant by program faculty at the institution have been the standard for decades. The COVID-19 pandemic forced a dramatic pivot to virtual interviews. With this unexpected change, there is now insight that interview format can affect equal and fair access, negatively impact the environment, as well as alter financial and administrative burden for both the applicants and programs. Future modifications to the match process will have to be explored to ensure both applicants and programs are able to mutually find their best match.

RevDate: 2025-06-20
CmpDate: 2025-06-16

Telles-Araujo GT, Cruz KMD, Preto KA, et al (2025)

Photobiomodulation in the management of persistent olfactory and gustatory dysfunction post-COVID-19: a systematic review.

Lasers in medical science, 40(1):283.

Among the clinical manifestations associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions have emerged as significant symptoms that impact patients' quality of life, likely due to neural damage affecting the olfactory and gustatory pathways. Currently, there is no standardized protocol for managing these dysfunctions; however, photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has gained attention as a potential therapeutic approach due to its beneficial effects. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the current clinical evidence regarding the efficacy of PBMT in the management of persistent post-COVID-19 neurosensory dysfunctions. A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases, from July 2023 to May 2025, identifying 465 records. The review of grey literature yielded eight additional eligible studies. Applying inclusion and exclusion criteria resulted in the selection of thirty-one studies for evaluation, with ten articles ultimately included in the qualitative analysis: one pilot clinical study, two case reports, three case series, and four randomized clinical trials. The efficacy of PBMT in treating neurosensory sequelae associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection was demonstrated with both red and infrared wavelengths, regardless of the therapeutic protocol adopted. Emerging evidence suggests that laser therapy-induced recovery of neurosensory dysfunction improves quality of life, especially in overall health perception and social well-being domains. However, to definitively establish its efficacy and optimize its clinical application, further high-quality research is necessary, including well-defined randomized clinical trials and standardized photobiomodulation protocols, to generate robust evidence capable of validating the clinical effectiveness of PBMT. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

RevDate: 2025-06-17

Tang Y, Liu B, Ma A, et al (2025)

Lung microbiota: a new hope for treating acute respiratory distress syndrome?.

Frontiers in microbiology, 16:1586949.

The lung microbiota, present in healthy individuals, undergoes alterations in different diseases and is closely linked to changes in both systemic and alveolar immunity. These interactions play a crucial role in the onset and progression of numerous diseases. Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), one of the most severe conditions encountered in intensive care units (ICU), is characterized by high incidence and mortality rates. The pathophysiology of ARDS involves complex mechanisms, including the activation and dysregulation of overlapping pathways related to injury, inflammation, and coagulation, both locally in the lungs and systemically. Notably, alterations in the microbiota may contribute to the pathogenesis of ARDS. Emerging evidence suggests that changes in the lung microbiota are associated with ARDS development, often marked by increased bacterial burden, reduced microbial diversity, and shifts in microbiota composition. In this review, we focus on the regulatory roles of the lung microbiota in ARDS and their therapeutic potential.

RevDate: 2025-06-16

Novogrudsky K, Treasure J, Rø Ø, et al (2025)

A Scoping Review of Eating Disorder Clinicians' Experiences, Needs, Views and Wellbeing.

Journal of clinical psychology [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Eating disorders (ED) are pervasive and severe mental illnesses affecting up to 15% of females and 5% of males internationally with rates sharply rising in recent decades, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, workload pressures on ED services have surged. The impact of this on ED clinicians and their wellbeing has not recently been investigated. This scoping review examines recent literature on ED clinicians' experiences, needs, and wellbeing to identify areas for future research and intervention. The goal is to improve clinician support, quality of life, and patient outcomes.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, eight databases and gray literature sources were searched for studies published from 2014 to 2024. Papers were assessed for quality and risk of bias, and mixed-methods data were analyzed using narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: Sixty-three studies, encompassing 3,152 multidisciplinary ED clinicians, were included. Clinicians worked across diverse settings with patients of varied presentations. Analyzes suggest that whilst job satisfaction amongst ED clinicians is high and attitudes are generally positive, workplace demands and stressors have a negative impact on clinician wellbeing. Several areas require clearer guidance and further clinician training. Clinicians' affect is mixed, and an 'emotional rollercoaster' is experienced at work. Many clinicians mention a lack of resources as a frustrating obstacle to an optimally operating service.

CONCLUSIONS: Clinicians experience working with ED patients as emotionally challenging and occasionally fatiguing, but attitudes are generally positive. However, clinicians are hindered by organizational factors and a lack of resources, including those pertaining to staffing and training.

RevDate: 2025-06-19
CmpDate: 2025-06-15

Huang Z, Zhang Y, Zou P, et al (2025)

Myelin dysfunction in aging and brain disorders: mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities.

Molecular neurodegeneration, 20(1):69.

Myelin is a multilamellar membrane that surrounds axons in the vertebrate nervous system. Properly functioning myelin is essential for the rapid conduction of nerve impulses, and it metabolically supports axonal integrity. Emerging evidence indicates that myelin is also involved in various aspects of cognition, with adaptive myelination playing a critical role in memory consolidation and motor learning. However, these physiological processes can be disrupted in various diseases. Understanding the mechanisms underlying myelin pathology is therefore essential for the development of targeted therapies for associated medical conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of myelin in neural function, with a particular focus on adaptive myelination in cognition. We also highlight myelin dysfunction and the underlying mechanisms in the aging brain, as well as in diverse brain disorders and neurological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, psychiatric conditions, brain injuries, chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment, and neurological symptoms associated with COVID-19. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potential of recently identified pro-myelinating compounds in aging-associated cognitive decline and brain disorders, as well as the future of remyelination therapies. Current evidence suggests that restoring functional myelin may serve as a therapeutic strategy for various medical conditions associated with myelin dysfunction.

RevDate: 2025-06-19

Maharani DA, Utaminingrum F, Husnina DNN, et al (2025)

A review: Lightweight architecture model in deep learning approach for lung disease identification.

Computers in biology and medicine, 194:110425.

As one of the leading causes of death worldwide, early detection of lung disease is a very important step to improve the effectiveness of treatment. By using medical image data, such as X-ray or CT-scan, classification of lung disease can be done. Deep learning methods have been widely used to recognize complex patterns in medical images, but this approach has the constraints of requiring large data variations and high computing resources. In overcoming these constraints, the lightweight architecture in deep learning can provide a more efficient solution based on the number of parameters and computing time. This method can be applied to devices with low processor specifications on portable devices such as mobile phones. This article presents a comprehensive review of 23 research studies published between 2020 and 2025, focusing on various lightweight architectures and optimization techniques aimed at improving the accuracy of lung disease detection. The results show that these models are able to significantly reduce parameter sizes, resulting in faster computation times while maintaining competitive accuracy compared to traditional deep learning architectures. From the research that has been done, it can be seen that SqueezeNet applied on public COVID-19 datasets is the best basic architecture with high accuracy, and the number of parameters is 570 thousand, which is very low. On the other hand, UNet requires 31.07 million parameters, and SegNet requires 29.45 million parameters trained on CT scan images from Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology and Radiopedia, so it is less efficient. For the combination method, EfficientNetV2 and Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) are able to achieve the highest accuracy of 98.20 % and can significantly reduce parameters. The worst performance is shown by VGG and UNet with a decrease in accuracy from 91.05 % to 87 % and an increase in the number of parameters. It can be concluded that the lightweight architecture can be applied to medical image classification in the diagnosis of lung disease quickly and efficiently on devices with limited specifications.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-14

Almutawif YA, Al-Kuraishy HM, Al-Gareeb AI, et al (2025)

Monkeypox virus and type 1 diabetes: a molecular insight into inflammatory signaling and β-cell autoimmunity.

Virology journal, 22(1):195.

The current worldwide pandemic of monkeypox (MPXV) elicited apprehensions over its possible long-term health ramifications. Recent data indicate a potential association between MPXV infection and the onset of autoimmune disorders, such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). This article analyzes the possible methods for MPXV infection to induce autoimmune responses and damage pancreatic β-cells. We examine from published articles the possible MPXV-induced immune dysregulation and inflammation in the development of T1D. Utilizing insights from other diabetogenic viruses, such as enterovirus and SARS-CoV-2. Currently, the association between MPXV and the development of T1D is scarce. Therefore, additional studies are essential for establishing a conclusive causal link between MPXV and T1D.

RevDate: 2025-06-14

Talmon I, Pekarsky S, Bartan Y, et al (2025)

Using wild-animal tracking for detecting and managing disease outbreaks.

Trends in ecology & evolution pii:S0169-5347(25)00135-1 [Epub ahead of print].

Zoonotic diseases increasingly threaten human and wildlife populations, driving a global rise in mass-mortality outbreaks, including the ongoing avian influenza panzootic in wildlife and zoonotic spillovers such as the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic in humans. We introduce a new general framework for detecting and managing pathogen outbreaks using animal movement and sensory biologging data to enhance early outbreak detection, provide near-real-time updates on sentinel host health and mortality, and reveal infection-induced behavioral changes. Integrating past and near-real-time biologging with disease surveillance data also enables prospective assessments of spatiotemporal outbreak dynamics, informs management decisions, helps to mitigate spillover risks, and supports both disease control and wildlife conservation.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-14

Ghorbian M, Ghorbian S, M Ghobaei-Arani (2025)

AI-driven techniques for detection and mitigation of SARS-CoV-2 spread: a review, taxonomy, and trends.

Clinical and experimental medicine, 25(1):204.

The SARS-CoV-2 RNA virus, with its rapid spread and frequent genetic changes, has posed unparalleled obstacles for public health and treatment efforts. Early diagnosis of the disease and the development of effective treatment strategies are the main pillars of epidemic control. In this regard, machine learning (ML) methods, an advanced subset of artificial intelligence (AI), can play an effective role in improving the accuracy of diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatments related to SARS-CoV-2. However, the implementation of ML in clinical settings faces issues such as data heterogeneity, lack of training data, model interpretability challenges, patient privacy protection, and implementation limitations. This article provides a systematic review of the applications of federated learning (FL), deep learning (DL), reinforcement learning (RL), and hybrid approaches in the field of SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis and treatment. Based on the analysis of the results, the main focus of the research was on increasing privacy and security (P&S) with a share of 26%, improving detection accuracy and robustness (DAR) with 24%, and improving computational and communication efficiency (CCE) with 20%. These statistics indicate the importance of prioritizing patient information confidentiality and improving systems' accuracy and stability against data variability. In conclusion, the findings of this review can pave the way for the practical application of ML technologies in clinical decision-making and improving the quality of healthcare services related to SARS-CoV-2.

RevDate: 2025-06-19
CmpDate: 2025-06-14

Xu ZY, Ouyang W, Liu JL, et al (2025)

Post-COVID-19 severe Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a non-HIV and immunocompetent patient: A case report and literature review.

The Journal of international medical research, 53(6):3000605251344140.

Pneumocystis jirovecii is a ubiquitous opportunistic fungus that can cause life-threatening pneumonia. The clinical manifestations of pneumonia caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and P. jirovecii are similar, posing a significant challenge in the diagnosis of P. jirovecii pneumonia or coronavirus disease 2019. Herein, we report a case of P. jirovecii pneumonia diagnosed through bronchoalveolar lavage and sputum smear analyses. The patient recovered successfully and was discharged following combination therapy with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and corticosteroids. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are of vital importance in managing P. jirovecii pneumonia, particularly in individuals with related risk factors for P. jirovecii pneumonia development.

RevDate: 2025-06-14

Portilho AI, Silva VO, Brigido LFM, et al (2025)

Should We Advance Our Understanding of Immunoglobulin E in Viral Immunity?.

Immunology [Epub ahead of print].

Immunoglobulin E has been extensively studied in allergies and parasitic diseases. However, antigen-specific IgE has been identified as part of the humoral response to some viruses, including Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Human rhinovirus (HRV), Influenza, Hepatitis B virus (HBV), Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Herpes simplex virus (HSV), Dengue virus (DENV) and SARS-CoV-2. In this brief article, we have reviewed key aspects of IgE function and structure, and summarised the findings about this antibody in virus-specific immune response. To date, IgE effector mechanisms in the face of viruses have been almost unexplored through functional assays. We speculate on possible functionalities, such as neutralisation, cytotoxicity and immunopathology of viral diseases, and provide insights about gaps to fill in future research.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-13

Elboraay T, Ebada MA, Elsayed M, et al (2025)

Long-term neurological and cognitive impact of COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis in over 4 million patients.

BMC neurology, 25(1):250.

BACKGROUND: Neuropsychiatric symptoms emerged early in the COVID-19 pandemic as a key feature of the virus, with research confirming a range of neuropsychiatric manifestations linked to acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, the persistence of neurological symptoms in the post-acute and chronic phases remains unclear. This meta-analysis assesses the long-term neurological effects of COVID-19 in recovered patients, providing insights for mental health service planning.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCO, and CENTRAL, up to March 22, 2024. Studies evaluating the prevalence of long-term neurological symptoms in COVID-19 survivors with at least six months of follow-up were included. Pooled prevalence estimates, subgroup analyses, and meta-regression were performed, and publication bias was assessed.

RESULTS: The prevalence rates for the different symptoms were as follows: fatigue 43.3% (95% CI [36.1-50.9%]), memory disorders 27.8% (95% CI [20.1-37.1%]), cognitive impairment 27.1% (95% CI [20.4-34.9%]), sleep disorders 24.4% (95% CI [18.1-32.1%]), concentration impairment 23.8% (95% CI [17.2-31.9%]), headache 20.3% (95% CI [15-26.9%]), dizziness 16% (95% CI [9.5-25.7%]), stress 15.9% (95% CI [10.2-24%]), depression 14.0% (95% CI [10.1-19.2%]), anxiety 13.2% (95% CI [9.6-17.9%]), and migraine 13% (95% CI [2.2-49.8%]). Significant heterogeneity was observed across all symptoms. Meta-regression analysis showed higher stress, fatigue, and headache in females, and increased stress and concentration impairment with higher BMI.

CONCLUSIONS: Neurological symptoms are common and persistent in COVID-19 survivors. This meta-analysis highlights the significant burden these symptoms place on individuals, emphasizing the need for well-resourced multidisciplinary healthcare services to support post-COVID recovery.

REGISTRATION AND PROTOCOL: This meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024576237.

RevDate: 2025-06-17

Deepika , Kumari A, Singh S, et al (2025)

Vitamin D: recent advances, associated factors, and its role in combating non-communicable diseases.

NPJ science of food, 9(1):100.

The field of nutrigenomics has produced numerous studies indicating the impact of vitamin D on various disease conditions. Trace elements of this vitamin in the body play a significant role in the regulation of body metabolism. This immunomodulatory vitamin plays a role in management of both communicable (viz. respiratory illness like COVID-19 and Respiratory tract infections) and non-communicable diseases e.g., cancer, osteomalacia, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Deficient levels, i.e., vitamin D deficiency in body can lead to the onset of chronic non-communicable illnesses. Vitamin D plays a direct and sometimes indirect role in the progression (when deficient) and prevention (when sufficient) of non-communicable diseases. This essential nutrient may be obtained through dietary intake or supplements. However, the absorption of it relies on various factors, including the presence of complementary nutrients, chemical forms, and external stimuli such as UV-B and a healthy gastrointestinal tract. This review discusses vitamin D absorption and its role in non-communicable diseases with updates on methods for evaluating and fortifying this vitamin in varied diets. We also briefly highlight recommended dietary allowances by age group, absorption difficulties, and its significance in non-communicable disorders.

RevDate: 2025-06-19
CmpDate: 2025-06-19

McMullen CL, Levin D, A Rama (2025)

Pediatric trauma and resuscitation: optimizing care in an evolving landscape.

Current opinion in anaesthesiology, 38(3):247-252.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Penetrating firearm-related injury has increased mortality rates in children in the USA. This article summarizes trends in pediatric injury patterns, the unique coagulation system of infants, and key components of hemostatic resuscitation in children.

RECENT FINDINGS: Firearm-associated penetrating trauma increased mortality and led to higher rates of pediatric massive transfusions. Patients may be the victim of previous gun violence or live with an adult who purchased a firearm for the first time during the COVID-19 pandemic. Platelet dysfunction and hypocalcemia are important considerations that may lead to higher transfusion requirements if not addressed. Pediatric massive transfusion protocols have become more standardized, and the use of whole blood has increased. Low-titer group O whole blood has shown benefit to improve coagulopathy and shock-associated indices when compared with conventional component therapy.

SUMMARY: Traumatic hemorrhage is potentially life-threatening in children and requires prompt hemostatic resuscitation. Massive transfusion protocols that target trauma-induced coagulopathy and account for the unique pediatric coagulation system are imperative. Ongoing and future research is important to standardize pediatric resuscitation practices.

RevDate: 2025-06-19
CmpDate: 2025-06-19

Scharf K, P Toledo (2025)

The integration of telehealth in antenatal anesthesia consults.

Current opinion in anaesthesiology, 38(3):163-168.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Telehealth is a popular way for health care providers to connect with patients and is utilized by anesthesiologists across the world for preoperative evaluations. The purpose of this review is to outline the latest literature about telehealth use within obstetric anesthesia.

RECENT FINDINGS: Utilization of telehealth significantly increased during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and has proven to be a useful and reliable way to conduct antenatal obstetric anesthesia consultations in high-risk patient groups. Recent publications indicate the reliability and utility of telehealth, especially to reach remote patient populations. This can help anesthesiologists reach patients referred to tertiary centers from remote areas, which can improve the quality and safety of patient care. Furthermore, with hospital-provided infrastructure, the majority of obstetric patients are able to connect with providers via telehealth.

SUMMARY: Obstetric anesthesiologists play a pivotal role in the perioperative planning for high-risk pregnant women, and telehealth can serve as a tool to make this easier and more efficient with high patient and provider satisfaction.

RevDate: 2025-06-15
CmpDate: 2025-06-13

Pak L, Rollison J, Rabinowitz M, et al (2025)

Human papillomavirus vaccine coverage surveys in low- and middle-income countries: current efforts and future considerations for very young adolescents.

BMJ global health, 10(6):.

With the recent accelerated rollout of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), there is a growing need for high-quality vaccination coverage measurement. Vaccine coverage surveys are a key avenue for collecting coverage data, but little is known about the current state of HPV vaccination coverage surveys of very young adolescents (VYAs)-those 10-14 years of age-in LMICs and methodological considerations for these efforts. Through an analysis of peer-reviewed and grey literature and a series of expert discussions, we identify promising approaches for these coverage surveys, such as when to sample from schools versus households and how to reduce recall bias. We also draw attention to the significant methodological gaps, such as a lack of research comparing the validity of vaccination status self-report by the VYA to a caregiver's report. Next, we describe the status of coverage surveys, finding that most LMICs with the HPV vaccine included in their national programme have not conducted a nationally representative HPV vaccination coverage survey. We also describe four existing multi-country survey efforts that include HPV vaccination coverage questions. Finally, we discuss promising approaches to strengthen survey measurement of HPV vaccination coverage among VYAs. Our findings lay the groundwork for stakeholders to expand HPV vaccination coverage measurement for VYAs in LMICs, a necessary component for reducing global HPV and cervical cancer burdens.

RevDate: 2025-06-13

Aram C, Firuzpour F, Barancheshmeh M, et al (2025)

Unveiling the translational and therapeutic potential of small interfering RNA molecules in combating SARS-CoV-2: A review.

International journal of biological macromolecules pii:S0141-8130(25)05756-3 [Epub ahead of print].

The global COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to significant mortality, with over 6.5 million deaths worldwide. While vaccines have played a crucial role in reducing disease severity, the emergence of viral variants continues to undermine vaccine efficacy, highlighting the need for alternative antiviral strategies. This review explores the potential of RNA interference (RNAi), particularly small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), as a targeted therapeutic approach against SARS-CoV-2. siRNAs can silence specific viral genes with high precision, effectively inhibiting viral replication. We discuss the design and mechanism of siRNAs, their primary molecular targets such as the spike (S), membrane (M), and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) genes and summarize past and current research findings. Special emphasis is placed on delivery systems, especially lung-targeted strategies essential for respiratory infections. We also evaluate how siRNA therapeutics can overcome challenges posed by viral mutations and treatment resistance. The novelty of this work lies in its focused comparison of siRNAs with other non-coding RNAs and its integration of computational tools for siRNA design. This review presents a strategic overview of siRNA development and highlights its translational potential for the current pandemic and future coronavirus outbreaks.

RevDate: 2025-06-13

Gritsok D, Hedström M, Montenegro MCBSM, et al (2025)

Electrochemical molecularly imprinted polymer sensors in viral diagnostics: Innovations, challenges and case studies.

Biosensors & bioelectronics, 287:117678 pii:S0956-5663(25)00552-4 [Epub ahead of print].

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are synthetic equivalent of antibodies and have been widely used in electrochemical sensing as recognition elements. They offer advantages over traditional recognition elements such as antibodies, nucleic acids and aptamers due to their simple synthesis, lower production costs, greater chemical and physical stability, and robust performance in diverse environments. Improved detection techniques and combining MIPs with materials like metal nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, aptamers, metal organic frameworks, quantum dots, and electrochemically active internal probes show increasing potential. These combinations could become a reliable method for detecting viruses quickly, with performance similar or better than standard techniques. In this review article we provide detailed case studies covering ten different viruses (Bean pod mottle virus, Dengue virus, Zika virus, Foot-and-mouth disease virus, Human papillomavirus, Hepatitis C virus, Human immunodeficiency virus, Influenza A virus, Norovirus, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) and over forty specific examples. We summarize the recent advances in the development of electrochemical MIP-based sensors for the diagnostics of viral diseases and compare their performance. Additionally, challenges and future perspectives of MIPs as promising recognition elements are discussed.

RevDate: 2025-06-13

Staller DW, Gawargi FI, Panigrahi SS, et al (2025)

Pharmaceutical perspectives on oligonucleotide therapeutics and delivery systems.

Pharmacological reviews, 77(4):100065 pii:S0031-6997(25)07473-3 [Epub ahead of print].

Gene therapy has a pivotal role in treating new diseases. In addition to the recent mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines produced by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna against severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2, several new gene therapies have recently been approved as effective treatments for fatal genetic disorders such as Duchenne's muscular dystrophy, familial transthyretin amyloidosis, hemophilia A, hemophilia B, spinal muscle atrophy, early cerebral autoleukodystrophy, and β-thalassemia. This review provides novel insights into RNA therapeutics focusing on endogenous RNA species, RNA structure and function, and chemical modifications that improve the stability and distribution of RNAs. Furthermore, it includes updated knowledge on clinically approved gene therapies rendering a comprehensive understanding of the biochemical basis and clinical application of gene therapies. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: There have recently been significant advances in clinical translation of RNA therapeutics. This review discusses the diverse types of RNA species, RNA structure and function, backbone and chemical modifications to RNAs, and every RNA therapeutic approved for clinical use at the time of writing.

RevDate: 2025-06-13

Rose W (2025)

Resurgence of Group A Streptococcal Infections.

Indian journal of pediatrics [Epub ahead of print].

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) causes considerable burden on the society with its varied disease manifestations than can range from asymptomatic infection to severe invasive disease which can lead to significant mortality. There was a decline in GAS infections over time with improved living conditions all over the world, however, with the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a resurgence in the different types of GAS infections. This recent upsurge in the GAS cases worldwide and the increasing rates of antimicrobial resistance has brought the spotlight back on this organism. Many vaccines are under development, but face multiple challenges that hinder the availability of a safe and effective vaccine for widespread use.

RevDate: 2025-06-13

Goldenberg DL (2025)

The pivotal role of central sensitization in long COVID, fibromyalgia and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.

Expert review of neurotherapeutics [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: Long COVID is a condition characterized by persistent unexplained symptoms following COVID-19 infection. These symptoms are not related to another disease or organ damage and are similar to those in fibromyalgia and myslgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).

AREAS COVERED: The similar clinical and pathophysiological features and management of long COVID, fibromyalgia and ME/CFS are explored from the unifying framework of central sensitivity syndromes. The article is based on a literature search utilizing PubMed for content published between 2021 and 1 May 2025, using search terms: long COVID, long COVID syndrome, post-COVID-19, post-acute SARS-CoV-2, fibromyalgia, ME/CFS, post-exertional malaise and central sensitization.

EXPERT OPINION: Once long COVID is redefined to exclude patients with well-defined organ disease, it fits best as a model of central sensitization. Long COVID is a single syndrome, rather than many distinct diseases. Optimal management of long COVID and similar central sensitivity syndromes should include personalized care with a primary care led-multidisciplinary team.

RevDate: 2025-06-14

Lin J, Tong Q, Huang H, et al (2025)

Glucocorticoids and immunoglobulin alone or in combination in the treatment of multisystemic inflammatory syndrome in children: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Frontiers in pediatrics, 13:1545788.

IMPORTANCE/BACKGROUND: Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) has sparked the creation of diverse treatment guidelines by healthcare organizations globally. The initial management strategies for MIS-C differ among these guidelines. In developed nations, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is frequently advised as the first-line treatment. However, given its high cost and limited availability in numerous countries, there is a pressing need for evidence to validate alternative therapeutic options.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of glucocorticoids (GCs), IVIG, and combination therapy for the treatment of Children with MIS-C.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Medellín. The last search update was on April 8, 2025.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Cohort studies that evaluated the efficacy of IVIG, GCs, and IVIG combined with GCs in children clinically diagnosed with MIS-C were included. Two authors independently screened the studies, extracted relevant data, and assessed the risk of bias.

PRIMARY OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcomes of the Bayesian network meta-analysis were inotropic support requirements, treatment failure/persistent fever, left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, need for adjuvant immunotherapy, mortality and coronary artery dilatation/aneurysm. Secondary outcomes included length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), duration of fever, and duration of inotropic support.

RESULTS: The primary analysis included fourteen cohort studies with a total of 4,269 participants. According to moderate-quality evidence, combination therapy demonstrated the most significant reduction in the need for adjuvant immunotherapy compared to IVIG alone [OR 0.29, 95% CI (0.19, 0.45)]. Additionally, GCs monotherapy was found to be most effective in lowering the incidence of treatment failure [OR 0.23, 95% CI (0.14, 0.39)]. When compared to combination therapy, GCs monotherapy was associated with a reduction in ICU length of stay [SMD -0.25, 95% CI (-0.85, 0.36)], duration of fever (SMD [-0.42, 95% CI (-0.73, -0.11)], and duration of inotropic support [SMD -0.13, 95% CI (-0.46, 0.20)], as well as a decrease in the incidence of left ventricular (LV) dysfunction [OR 0.96, 95% CI (0.55, 1.68)]. Furthermore, GCs monotherapy had the lowest incidence of coronary artery dilation/aneurysm, while combination therapy required the least inotropic support. Patients receiving IVIG had the lowest mortality rate, but no statistically significant mortality differences existed across treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: GCs monotherapy significantly reduces treatment failure rates and persistent fever duration, while combination therapy significantly reduces the need for adjunctive immunotherapy. For countries with limited access to IVIG, initiating GCs as first-line therapy may be a viable option.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, PROSPERO identifier CRD42023456156.

RevDate: 2025-06-14

Ng MK, Mont MA, PM Bonutti (2025)

Clinical and Environmental Harms of Quaternary Ammonium Disinfectants and the Promise of Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) Alternatives: A Narrative Review.

Cureus, 17(5):e84022.

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are widely used disinfectants whose application expanded dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns about long-term safety and environmental impact. This narrative review begins by outlining the chemical structure, mechanisms of action, and widespread use of QACs across healthcare, consumer, and industrial settings. We examine toxicologic findings from in vitro and animal studies, highlighting mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and reproductive toxicity at low-dose exposures. Clinical and public health data are reviewed, linking QAC exposure to respiratory symptoms, dermatitis, and potential reproductive risks among healthcare workers and other vulnerable populations. Environmental harms are also discussed, including QAC persistence in soil and water, ecotoxicity in aquatic species, and potential for bioaccumulation. We then explore ultraviolet-C (UV-C) disinfection as a non-chemical alternative, demonstrating comparable antimicrobial efficacy without the toxicological or ecological drawbacks of QACs. Despite the growing use of QACs, few studies have comprehensively reviewed their adverse effects or evaluated UV-C as a viable substitute. This narrative review fills a critical gap by synthesizing current evidence across disciplines and highlighting the need for safer disinfection practices. We advocate for the broader adoption of UV-C technologies to reduce chemical exposure, protect public health, and promote environmental sustainability.

RevDate: 2025-06-15
CmpDate: 2025-06-13

Hayes C, Bourke S, Jacob S, et al (2025)

Psychological Wellbeing and Predictors of Early Help-Seeking Behaviours of International Students of Undergraduate Nursing Programs: A Scoping Review.

Nursing open, 12(6):e70249.

BACKGROUND: Australian Universities are the principal providers of nurse education for international students. While researchers have recognised the important issue of poor psychological well-being among nursing students, few have explored the factors which impact international nursing students.

AIM: This review aimed to map the reported factors impacting psychological health, wellness and early help-seeking behaviours of international students enrolled in Bachelor of Nursing programmes.

METHODS: A scoping review with a five-stage methodological framework to interpret and synthesise the available literature was utilised. The following databases were searched: CINAHL Complete, PsycINFO, MEDLINE, ERIC and Scopus for studies published in English from 2012 to 2022. Additional sources were also sought through a review of the references of included studies. Four studies met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS: Results revealed that all included studies were from Australia and utilised a quantitative approach. Factors impacting psychological health and wellbeing, as well as help-seeking behaviours included but were not limited to migrating alone, language spoken, marginalisation and the COVID-19 pandemic. Published literature on this topic is limited, with a notable absence from other countries.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights a gap in evidence concerning ways to support international nursing students.

There were no patient or public contributions in the design, conduct, analysis or preparation of this manuscript.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Kusunoki H (2025)

Unraveling Rising Mortality: Statistical Insights from Japan and International Comparisons.

Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(11):.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan has experienced a significant rise in mortality, with excess deaths surpassing historical projections. Statistical data indicate a sharp increase in mortality rates from 2021 onward, attributed to COVID-19, aging demographics, cardiovascular diseases, and malignancies. Preliminary 2024 data suggest continued excess mortality, fueling public debate. This review analyzes national and municipal mortality trends using official Japanese statistics and comparative data from South Korea, the U.S., and the EU. Findings reveal a sharp mortality rise post-2021 in Japan and South Korea, while Western nations experienced peak deaths in 2020, followed by declines. The review explores contributing factors, including potential vaccine-related adverse effects, declining healthcare access, pandemic-induced stress, and demographic shifts. Notably, older adults' reluctance to seek medical care led to delayed diagnoses, treatment interruptions, and preventable deaths. Although some argue that declining COVID-19 vaccination rates in 2023 may have contributed to rising mortality in 2024, available data suggest a multifactorial causation. Japan's rapidly aging population, coupled with increasing mortality and declining birth rates, presents profound social and economic challenges. A nuanced approach, avoiding simplistic causal claims, is crucial for understanding these trends. This review highlights the need for a sustainable societal framework to address demographic shifts and improve healthcare resilience. Future pandemic strategies must balance infection control measures with mitigating unintended health consequences to ensure a more adaptive and effective public health response.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Tong LK, Tam HL, AM Mao (2025)

A Bibliometric Review of Person-Centered Care Research 2010-2024.

Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(11):.

Background/Objectives: Person-centered care (PCC) has become a pivotal concept in healthcare. At present, no published studies have assessed the PCC field using bibliometric tools. This study aimed to identify hot spots, trends, and developmental trajectories within the PCC field. Methods: Publications related to PCC from 2010 to 2024 were extracted from the Web of Science core collection database and analyzed by the Bibliometrix package from RStudio. Results: A total of 5837 studies were analyzed. The analysis revealed steady growth in PCC research, with the United Kingdom, Australia, and the USA leading in publication numbers. Frequent keywords included patient-centered care, PCC, and qualitative research. The thematic shift from patient-centered care to PCC highlights a growing emphasis on individual healthcare needs and values. The evolution of research themes related to PCC has varied across different time periods, with communication, quality improvement, multimorbidity, and chronic disease remaining underdeveloped during 2020-2024, indicating that these themes are key focuses for future research. Emerging keywords over the past five years-value-based healthcare; deep learning; telehealth; and COVID-19-suggest new research directions. Conclusions: This study provides a detailed overview of the PCC research landscape, highlighting key areas of focus and identifying potential directions for future research. The findings suggest a dynamic field with a growing emphasis on individualized care and the integration of new methodologies and themes to address current healthcare challenges.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Richa S, Praveen S, Albariqi AA, et al (2025)

Global Trends and Emerging Frontiers in Smoking and Smokeless Tobacco Research: A Bibliometric Analysis over the Past Decade.

Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(11):.

UNLABELLED: Tobacco use remains a critical global health issue, with extensive research focusing on its impact on public health, particularly its strong association with oral cavity cancer. It is a leading cause of preventable disease and death worldwide, affecting millions each year. Despite increased awareness and regulatory measures, tobacco continues to pose significant challenges, prompting ongoing investigations into its health effects and related behaviors.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of smoking and smokeless tobacco research from 2014 to 2024, focusing on identifying key research trends, influential contributors, emerging topics, and collaborative networks on a global scale.

METHODS: A dataset of 2694 research papers from PubMed was analyzed using bibliometric tools. Keyword co-occurrence, authorship patterns, and institutional collaborations were mapped to reveal dominant themes and trends. Additionally, country-specific publications were examined to assess geographical contributions and emerging research frontiers.

RESULTS: The analysis indicates a 7.3% annual increase in publications, with a peak in 2021 likely influenced by COVID-19. Research topics have shifted from traditional tobacco-related health impacts, such as lung cancer and cardiovascular diseases, to newer areas like e-cigarettes and social determinants of health. Strong international collaborations were noted, with the U.S., China, and Europe as dominant contributors. Emerging research frontiers include electronic nicotine delivery systems and strategies aimed at controlling tobacco-related health risks.

CONCLUSION: This bibliometric study highlights significant growth in tobacco-related research over the past decade. Evolving trends reflect a shift toward newer tobacco products and public health challenges. These findings provide valuable insights for shaping future research agendas and informing global tobacco control policies.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Miranda Gálvez AL, AP Pacheco-Unguetti (2025)

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review.

Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), 13(11):.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic and related public health measures significantly disrupted daily life, with profound consequences for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Young adults with ASD faced unique challenges due to disruptions in routines, employment instability, limited access to essential services, and increased social isolation. While some individuals benefited from reduced social pressures and the adoption of remote work, many experienced heightened anxiety, behavioral difficulties, and declines in autonomy. This systematic review examines the impact of the pandemic on young adults with ASD, focusing on key domains such as autonomy, employment, service accessibility, socialization, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.

METHODS: This review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, and its protocol was pre-registered in the PROSPERO database. A search was conducted in four databases-PubMed, Scous, Web of Science, and PsycInfo-as well as in specialized journals in the field.

RESULTS: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final synthesis. The findings highlight significant disruptions in daily life, increased dependence on caregivers, and difficulties in maintaining structured activities. However, technology-assisted interventions, including virtual therapies and remote work opportunities, played a role in mitigating some adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite the heterogeneity in methodologies, this review underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to support young adults with ASD during crises. Future research should focus on long-term consequences and developing inclusive policies that enhance resilience, access to services, and social integration.

RevDate: 2025-06-15
CmpDate: 2025-06-13

Federico M (2025)

The Potential of Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Spread of Self-Amplifying RNA and a Way to Mitigate It.

International journal of molecular sciences, 26(11):.

Self-amplifying RNA-based (saRNA) technology represents the last frontier in using synthetic RNA in vaccinology. Typically, saRNA consists of positive-strand RNA molecules of viral origin (almost exclusively from alphaviruses) where the sequences of structural proteins are replaced with the open reading frame coding the antigen of interest. For in vivo delivery, they are complexed with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), just like current COVID-19 vaccines based on synthetic messenger RNA (mRNA). Given their ability to amplify themselves inside the cell, optimal intracellular levels of the immunogenic antigen can be achieved by delivering lower amounts of saRNA molecules compared to mRNA-based vaccines. However, the excessive intracellular accumulation of saRNA may represent a relevant drawback since, as already described in alphavirus-infected cells, the recipient cell may react by incorporating excessive RNA molecules into extracellular vesicles (EVs). These EVs can shed and enter neighboring as well as distant cells, where the EV-associated saRNA can start a new replication cycle. This mechanism could lead to an unwanted and unnecessary spread of saRNA throughout the body, posing relevant safety issues. This perspective article discusses the molecular mechanisms through which saRNAs can be transmitted among different cells/tissues. In addition, a simple way to control the possible excessive saRNA intercellular propagation through the co-expression of an EV-anchored protein inhibiting the saRNA replication is proposed. Based on current knowledge, a safety improvement of saRNA-based vaccines appears to be mandatory for their usage in healthy humans.

RevDate: 2025-06-15
CmpDate: 2025-06-13

Popa E, Popa AE, Poroch M, et al (2025)

The Molecular Mechanisms of Cognitive Dysfunction in Long COVID: A Narrative Review.

International journal of molecular sciences, 26(11):.

Cognitive dysfunction represents one of the most persistent and disabling features of Long COVID, yet its molecular underpinnings remain incompletely understood. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the pathophysiological mechanisms linking SARS-CoV-2 infection to long-term neurocognitive sequelae. Key processes include persistent neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption, endothelial dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and neuroendocrine imbalance. Microglial activation and cytokine release (e.g., IL-6, TNF-α) promote synaptic dysfunction and neuronal injury, while activation of inflammasomes such as NLRP3 amplifies CNS inflammation. Vascular abnormalities, including microthrombosis and BBB leakage, facilitate the infiltration of peripheral immune cells and neurotoxic mediators. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysfunction and reduced vagal tone further exacerbate systemic inflammation and autonomic imbalance. Biomarkers such as GFAP, NFL, IL-6, and S100B have been associated with both neuroinflammation and cognitive symptoms. Notably, transcriptomic signatures in Long COVID overlap with those observed in Alzheimer's disease, highlighting shared pathways involving tau dysregulation, oxidative stress, and glial reactivity. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for identifying at-risk individuals and developing targeted therapeutic strategies. This review underscores the need for longitudinal research and integrative biomarker analysis to elucidate the molecular trajectory of cognitive impairment in Long COVID.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

De Melo LC, Rugna MM, Durães TA, et al (2025)

Congenital Rubella Syndrome in the Post-Elimination Era: Why Vigilance Remains Essential.

Journal of clinical medicine, 14(11):.

Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) results from maternal infection with the rubella virus during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, when the risk of vertical transmission and severe fetal damage is highest. CRS is characterized by a broad spectrum of congenital anomalies, including sensorineural hearing loss, congenital heart defects, cataracts, neurodevelopmental delay, and behavioral disorders. Despite the absence of specific antiviral therapies, active immunization remains the only effective strategy to prevent rubella infection and its congenital consequences. Global immunization efforts, particularly in the Americas, have led to the elimination of rubella and CRS in several countries. However, challenges persist in the post-elimination era, including declining vaccine coverage, vaccine hesitancy, and setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Diagnosis relies on maternal serology, fetal imaging, postnatal antibody testing, and molecular techniques. Management requires long-term, multidisciplinary follow-up due to the complex and lifelong sequelae affecting sensory, motor, and cognitive development. This review highlights the clinical, epidemiological, and pathophysiological aspects of CRS, while emphasizing the urgent need to maintain high vaccination coverage and strengthen surveillance systems. Sustained public health commitment is essential to prevent the reemergence of rubella and protect future generations from this preventable syndrome.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Asseri AA (2025)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus: A Narrative Review of Updates and Recent Advances in Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Management and Prevention.

Journal of clinical medicine, 14(11):.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) continues as the major cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections in children around the world, and its substantial morbidity, particularly among infants and high-risk children, poses a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. RSV infections occur as a spectrum, ranging from mild upper respiratory symptoms to severe bronchiolitis and pneumonia, and the number of infections shows seasonal variations in different latitudes, as well as lasting impacts, reflecting the COVID-19 pandemic. The pathogenesis of the virus involves epithelial cell invasion and/or fusion to form syncytia, along with exaggerated immune-mediated responses. Disease severity is known to depend on viral load, strain variation, and host immune immaturity. Severe RSV infection during infancy is notably linked with long-term respiratory sequelae such as recurrent wheezing and asthma. Diagnosis is based on clinical suspicion and laboratory confirmation using rapid antigen testing or nucleic acid amplification tests, namely PCR. Non-pharmaceutical interventions, maternal vaccination, and prophylaxis with monoclonal antibodies, e.g., palivizumab and nirsevimab, a newly introduced long-acting agent, are efficient protective and preventive measures. Treatment is still, for the most part, supportive in nature and focuses on oxygen supplementation, hydration, and respiratory support for patients with more severe disease courses; however, the development of immunoprophylaxis and vaccine candidates shows promise for reducing the global burden of RSV.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Živković Zarić R, Zarić M, Protrka S, et al (2025)

Treatment and Outcomes of COVID-19 Infection in Pregnant Women: Systematic Review of Cases Reported in Europe.

Journal of clinical medicine, 14(11):.

Background/Objectives: The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global pandemic of COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 in March 2020. May 2023 was the month that ended the global pandemic. Pregnant females with COVID-19 are less likely to be symptomatic than non-pregnant patients, with nearly three-quarters being without symptoms. According to previous studies, even if somebody develops symptoms, they are usually mild, most commonly coughing (41%), fever (40%), and dyspnea (21%). Our study aims to search the literature systematically, especially case series and case reports published in Europe, and to summarize results about the kind of COVID-19 therapy in pregnant women and about outcomes in mothers and newborns. Methods: Our systematic review was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with CRD42024566838. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, and Serbian Citation Index (SCIndeks). In this study, case reports or case series with open, complete text that included full clinical records of the individuals identified with infection in pregnancy, thought to be caused by COVID-19, were used. Case series or case reports were eliminated if they (1) did not contain a full clinical report for every patient, or (2) included an individual who suffered from another viral infection other than COVID-19, so the clinical course and the outcome could not be precisely defined. We evaluated reporting bias and attrition bias. Results: Our study included 32 published studies (eight case series and 24 case reports) that included 56 individual cases. The oldest patient was 50 years old, and the youngest was 19 years old. The most common symptom initially was dry cough (n = 23; 41%), followed by fever (n = 21; 37%) and dyspnea (n = 10; 17%). In three patients, a lower level of thrombocytes was reported, with the lowest level of 86 × 10[9]. The most frequently used drugs in pregnant women with COVID-19 infection were azithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, hydroxychloroquine, as well as corticosteroids. Twenty-two patients were on mechanical ventilation. After all this reported therapy, ten women died, as well as seven newborns. Conclusions: From our results, we can conclude that mechanical ventilation correlates with cesarean section performed more frequently, as well as with a higher mortality rate of neonates. There are no significant data related to transplacental transmission of the virus. Generally, mortality in our group of patients (mothers) was 17%, which is similar to the general population death from COVID-19 infection.

RevDate: 2025-06-15

Milic J, Vucurovic M, Grego E, et al (2025)

From Fear to Hope: Understanding Preparatory and Anticipatory Grief in Women with Cancer-A Public Health Approach to Integrating Screening, Compassionate Communication, and Psychological Support Strategies.

Journal of clinical medicine, 14(11):.

Prolonged grief disorder, also known as post-loss grief, was officially recognized in the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) after years of debate within the mental health community. However, while post-loss grief gained recognition, anticipatory and preparatory grief, which occur before a loss, have remained underexplored. Preparatory grief affects individuals nearing the end of life, while anticipatory grief impacts the loved ones of those who are about to die. These grief types are particularly prevalent among women, who are more vulnerable to their emotional and psychological challenges. The primary aim of this study was to investigate preparatory grief in women diagnosed with cancer and anticipatory grief in their loved ones, with the goal of developing management guidelines. The secondary objective was to identify protective factors, such as psychotherapeutic interventions and systemic support, to alleviate grief-related distress. This review synthesized evidence from the PubMed and Cochrane databases, covering studies from 1968 to 2020 and after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2023. The results revealed that anticipatory grief was common among loved ones, leading to increased emotional distress, while cancer patients experienced preparatory grief, facing both emotional and practical challenges. Both types of grief were associated with altered stress responses, such as lower diurnal cortisol levels. Psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly early and systemic psychotherapy, were found to effectively reduce symptoms of both anticipatory and preparatory grief, improving coping strategies and emotional well-being. The study concluded that empowering coping strategies and social support played key roles in enhancing emotional outcomes for both patients and their families.

RevDate: 2025-06-17
CmpDate: 2025-06-13

Bigman G, Rusu ME, Shelawala N, et al (2025)

A Comprehensive Scoping Review on Diet and Nutrition in Relation to Long COVID-19 Symptoms and Recovery.

Nutrients, 17(11):.

Background/Objectives: Long COVID-19 is characterized by persistent symptoms lasting three months or more following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nutrition has emerged as a modifiable factor influencing recovery trajectories and symptom burden; however, existing evidence remains fragmented across diverse study designs and populations. This scoping review synthesized global evidence on the role of diet and nutrition in managing long COVID-19 symptoms and supporting recovery. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR and Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines for scoping reviews, we searched major biomedical databases for studies published between 2020 and 2025. Eligible studies examined dietary intake, nutritional status, or nutrition-related interventions in adults with long COVID-19. Results: After duplicates were removed, 1808 records were screened, resulting in 50 studies that met the inclusion criteria-27 intervention studies and 23 observational studies. Nutritional exposures included micronutrients (e.g., vitamins D, K2), amino acids (e.g., L-arginine), multinutrient formulations, microbiota-targeted therapies (e.g., probiotics, synbiotics), nutritional status, diet quality, and whole-diet patterns (e.g., the Mediterranean diet). Approximately 76% of studies reported improvements in long COVID-19-related symptoms such as fatigue, mood disturbances, physical function, and markers of inflammation. Conclusions: Diet and nutrition may support long COVID-19 recovery by targeting inflammation and the gut microbiome to alleviate symptoms and improve functional outcomes. Well-powered trials of whole-diet approaches, combined with targeted supplementation, are needed to confirm their potential as scalable, accessible tools for post-COVID-19 recovery and management.

RevDate: 2025-06-12

Domenech A, Kasujee I, Koscielny V, et al (2025)

Systematic Review of the Use of the WHO-5 Well-Being Index Across Different Disease Areas.

Advances in therapy [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Since its first publication in 1998, the 5-item World Health Organization Well-being index, WHO-5, has become one of the most widely used questionnaires to assess subjective psychological well-being.

AIMS: To perform a systematic review of the WHO-5 questionnaire, with a focus on its use across various disease areas and patient populations.

METHODS: Studies reporting the use of the WHO-5 were searched on the PubMed and PsycINFO databases (search December 2024). The classification of the different diseases or disorders was used following the 11th version of the International Classification of Diseases.

RESULTS: A total of 552 studies met the predefined criteria for inclusion in the review. We provide an overview of the WHO-5 use in all different disease areas, the psychological burden of the patients, and if available, the impact of the treatments on their well-being. The groups with the most publications refer to the Coronavirus disease (COVID)-19 pandemic (n = 161, 29.2%) followed by the group of mental, behavioral, or neurodevelopmental disorders (n = 141, 25.6%), and the group of endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic diseases (n = 120, 21.7%).

CONCLUSIONS: The WHO-5 is a short questionnaire consisting of 5 positively formulated questions, which successfully detect when a disease impacts a person's subjective well-being. The scale proved to detect changes in well-being across various diseases around the world, and it should be considered in clinical practice and research.

RevDate: 2025-06-12

Stormezand GN, Doorduin J, Glaudemans AWJM, et al (2025)

Current Developments on [[18]F]FDG PET/CT in Inflammatory Disorders of the Central Nervous System.

Seminars in nuclear medicine pii:S0001-2998(25)00066-2 [Epub ahead of print].

2-Deoxy-2-[[18]F]fluoro-D-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) is widely used to study cerebral glucose metabolism and may be useful in several inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system. Emerging literature suggests that [[18]F]FDG may be more sensitive to detect abnormalities in auto-immune encephalitis (AIE) in comparison to MRI, especially in NDMA receptor encephalitis. Distinct patterns of regional abnormalities in AIE have been reported, depending on the auto-antibody involved. Predominant findings are hypermetabolism of the mediotemporal lobe and hypometabolism in parietal and occipital lobes. The possibility for whole body imaging in the setting of malignancy screening further strengthens the importance of [[18]F]FDG PET in AIE when associated with paraneoplastic syndromes. Other inflammatory conditions of the central nervous system where [[18]]FDG PET may facilitate diagnosis include neurosarcoidosis and potential neuropsychiatric manifestations of systemic lupus erythematodes. More recently, [[18]F]FDG PET has been used in patients to evaluate postacute sequelae of COVID-19, allowing assessment of specific neuronal impairments at the individual level and determination of time-dependent metabolic alterations.

RevDate: 2025-06-12

Post RM, Li VW, Berk M, et al (2025)

Lithium as a disease-modifying drug for bipolar disorder.

The lancet. Psychiatry pii:S2215-0366(25)00097-5 [Epub ahead of print].

Lithium is a classic, primary treatment for bipolar disorder that has paradoxically been used less over time, especially in North America, which goes against the accumulating evidence for its efficacy. Bipolar disorder is increasingly conceptualised as a chronic, potentially progressive condition worsened and accelerated by each mood episode, which might resemble multiple sclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis as a condition that requires disease-modifying treatments to change illness trajectory. In this Personal View, we argue that lithium acts like a disease-modifying drug in bipolar disorder. Although the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder remains unclear, many of the mechanisms implicated in bipolar disorder, and the surrogate markers associated with this condition, are uniquely affected by lithium treatment from the DNA and cellular levels to the structure and function of the brain and other body systems. Clinical trial and cohort study evidence shows that lithium is effective and probably superior to other medications used to treat bipolar disorder, and that long-term outcomes are better with lithium than non-lithium regimens. Conceptualisation of lithium as a disease-modifying agent might help to increase clinical use by doctors, especially early in the disease course to better serve our patients.

RevDate: 2025-06-12

Lukman KM, Hastuti LP, Oktavia D, et al (2025)

Towards blue skies: A comprehensive review and regional mapping of ambient air quality in Indonesian cities.

Journal of environmental management, 389:126132 pii:S0301-4797(25)02108-5 [Epub ahead of print].

This study reviews the landscape of ambient air quality research in Indonesia, analyzing 74 articles published between 2014 and 2024. The analysis focuses on key pollutants-PM2.5, NOx, and SOx-in metropolitan cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, and Semarang. Findings reveal that transportation, industrial activities, and forest fires are primary contributors to urban air pollution. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted air quality, with marked reductions in PM2.5 and NOx levels in 2020 due to decreased human activities. However, pollutant concentrations rose again as economic activities resumed post-pandemic. Jakarta, the capital city, experienced notable changes, demonstrating the profound effects of emissions reduction strategies. This review highlights the urgent need for continuous monitoring, improved regulatory frameworks, and sustainable urban planning to mitigate air pollution in Indonesia's rapidly urbanizing cities.

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ESP Quick Facts

ESP Origins

In the early 1990's, Robert Robbins was a faculty member at Johns Hopkins, where he directed the informatics core of GDB — the human gene-mapping database of the international human genome project. To share papers with colleagues around the world, he set up a small paper-sharing section on his personal web page. This small project evolved into The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.

ESP Support

In 1995, Robbins became the VP/IT of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, WA. Soon after arriving in Seattle, Robbins secured funding, through the ELSI component of the US Human Genome Project, to create the original ESP.ORG web site, with the formal goal of providing free, world-wide access to the literature of classical genetics.

ESP Rationale

Although the methods of molecular biology can seem almost magical to the uninitiated, the original techniques of classical genetics are readily appreciated by one and all: cross individuals that differ in some inherited trait, collect all of the progeny, score their attributes, and propose mechanisms to explain the patterns of inheritance observed.

ESP Goal

In reading the early works of classical genetics, one is drawn, almost inexorably, into ever more complex models, until molecular explanations begin to seem both necessary and natural. At that point, the tools for understanding genome research are at hand. Assisting readers reach this point was the original goal of The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project.

ESP Usage

Usage of the site grew rapidly and has remained high. Faculty began to use the site for their assigned readings. Other on-line publishers, ranging from The New York Times to Nature referenced ESP materials in their own publications. Nobel laureates (e.g., Joshua Lederberg) regularly used the site and even wrote to suggest changes and improvements.

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When the site began, no journals were making their early content available in digital format. As a result, ESP was obliged to digitize classic literature before it could be made available. For many important papers — such as Mendel's original paper or the first genetic map — ESP had to produce entirely new typeset versions of the works, if they were to be available in a high-quality format.

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Early support from the DOE component of the Human Genome Project was critically important for getting the ESP project on a firm foundation. Since that funding ended (nearly 20 years ago), the project has been operated as a purely volunteer effort. Anyone wishing to assist in these efforts should send an email to Robbins.

ESP Plans

With the development of methods for adding typeset side notes to PDF files, the ESP project now plans to add annotated versions of some classical papers to its holdings. We also plan to add new reference and pedagogical material. We have already started providing regularly updated, comprehensive bibliographies to the ESP.ORG site.

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With the world now in the middle of a new and rapidly spreading pandemic, now is the time to read this book, originally published in 2012, that describes animal infections and the next human pandemic (that's actually the book's subtitle). You would be hard pressed to find a more relevant explanation of how this got started and why there will be more after this one. R. Robbins

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Papers in Classical Genetics

The ESP began as an effort to share a handful of key papers from the early days of classical genetics. Now the collection has grown to include hundreds of papers, in full-text format.

Digital Books

Along with papers on classical genetics, ESP offers a collection of full-text digital books, including many works by Darwin and even a collection of poetry — Chicago Poems by Carl Sandburg.

Timelines

ESP now offers a large collection of user-selected side-by-side timelines (e.g., all science vs. all other categories, or arts and culture vs. world history), designed to provide a comparative context for appreciating world events.

Biographies

Biographical information about many key scientists (e.g., Walter Sutton).

Selected Bibliographies

Bibliographies on several topics of potential interest to the ESP community are automatically maintained and generated on the ESP site.

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