The Impact of SARS-Cov-2 Virus Infection on the Endocrine System

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Aggravates Complement Dysregulation and Affects Cortisol Response in Patients with Post-COVID-19

Purpose

COVID-19 viral infection results in dysregulation of the complement system and a decrease in cortisol and adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) levels. This study aimed to explore the complement system, as well as cortisol and ACTH responses in patients with post-COVID-19 conditions (PCC) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Patients and Methods

This study recruited 31 patients with PCC and T2DM (PCC-T2DM), 19 patients with PCC (PCC), 10 patients with T2DM (T2DM), and 10 healthy participants (control). Cortisol and ACTH in the PCC and PCC-T2DM groups were assessed using the insulin tolerance test. In the fasting state, serum samples were collected for proteomic analyses. Spearman correlation analysis was performed between proteins and cortisol, as well as between proteins and ACTH.

Results

Cortisol and ACTH levels were consistently decreased in the PCC and PCC-T2DM groups. Proteomic analyses revealed that most of the differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) in the PCC vs control and PCC-T2DM vs T2DM were involved in the coagulation and complement cascade, and the essential complement C3 was significantly upregulated in the PCC and PCC-T2DM groups when compared to their controls. Additionally, complement-related DAPs in the PCC vs control and PCC-T2DM vs T2DM were significantly correlated with cortisol and ACTH levels. In comparing PCC-T2DM samples with PCC samples, we found that upregulated DAPs were linked to the complement system and other immune system, and most DAPs were negatively correlated with cortisol and ACTH.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that T2DM exacerbated dysregulation of the complement system in patients with PCC, and significant correlations were present between complement protein levels and those of cortisol and ACTH. These results provide novel insights into the dysregulation of complement and endocrine hormones in patients with PCC and T2DM.

Glycemic Management in Patients with COVID-19 Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit: Evaluation of Glycemic Control and Drug Therapy

Background

Emerging evidence describes the high incidence and strong impact of hyperglycemia on the outcomes of critically ill patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19. Given resource limitations during the COVID-19 pandemic, clinicians moved away from using continuous IV infusions of insulin to manage hyperglycemia.

Objective

To evaluate glycemic control in critically ill patients receiving various medication regimens to manage their hyperglycemia.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study involved 120 mechanically ventilated adult patients (> 18 years) with COVID-19 who were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) between February 2020 and December 2021. The following data were collected for the first 14 days of the ICU admission: blood glucose values (up to 4 times daily), hypoglycemia events, and antihyperglycemic medication regimens.

Results

The use of IV insulin infusions maintained glucose measurements within the target range of 4 to 10 mmol/L more often than any other medication regimen, with 60% of measured values falling within the target range. The use of a sliding-scale insulin regimen maintained 52% of glucose measurements within the target range. Oral hypoglycemic agents performed relatively poorly, with only 12% to 29% of glucose measurements within range. The coadministration of corticosteroids led to worse glycemic control across all medication regimens.

Conclusions

This study confirmed that ICUs should continue using the standard protocol of IV insulin infusion to achieve recommended blood glucose targets in critically ill patients with COVID-19, particularly those receiving corticosteroids.

Predictors of the severity of the course of COVID-19: demographic factors, clinical signs and laboratory markers

Introduction. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had a significant impact on global healthcare, with high mortality and severe complications remaining a major concern. Understanding the predictors of COVID-19 severity may improve patient management and outcomes. While considerable research has focused on the pathogenesis of the virus and vaccine development, the identification of reliable demographic, clinical and laboratory predictors of severe disease remains critical.Hypothesis. Specific demographic factors, clinical signs and laboratory markers can reliably predict the severity of COVID-19. A comprehensive analysis integrating these predictors could provide a more accurate prognosis and guide timely interventions.Aim. The aim of this study is to identify and evaluate the demographic, clinical and laboratory factors that can serve as reliable predictors of severe COVID-19, thereby aiding in the prediction and prevention of adverse outcomes.Methodology. The methods of analysis, synthesis, generalization and descriptive statistics were used to achieve this objective.Results. The analysis showed that demographic factors such as age over 60 and male sex are significant predictors of severe COVID-19. Clinical predictors include respiratory symptoms, especially dyspnoea, and comorbidities such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, respiratory failure, asthma, diabetes mellitus and obesity. Laboratory markers with high prognostic value include elevated levels of C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, ferritin, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, d-dimer, aspartate aminotransferase enzyme and decreased lymphocyte count.Conclusion. The study concludes that a holistic approach incorporating demographic, clinical and laboratory data is essential to accurately predict the severity of COVID-19. This integrated model may significantly improve patient prognosis by facilitating early identification of high-risk individuals and allowing timely, targeted interventions. The results highlight the importance of comprehensive patient assessment in managing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19.

Potential Effects of Hyperglycemia on SARS-CoV-2 Entry Mechanisms in Pancreatic Beta Cells

The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed a bidirectional relationship between SARS-CoV-2 infection and diabetes mellitus. Existing evidence strongly suggests hyperglycemia as an independent risk factor for severe COVID-19, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Conversely, recent studies have reported new-onset diabetes following SARS-CoV-2 infection, hinting at a potential direct viral attack on pancreatic beta cells. In this review, we explore how hyperglycemia, a hallmark of diabetes, might influence SARS-CoV-2 entry and accessory proteins in pancreatic β-cells. We examine how the virus may enter and manipulate such cells, focusing on the role of the spike protein and its interaction with host receptors. Additionally, we analyze potential effects on endosomal processing and accessory proteins involved in viral infection. Our analysis suggests a complex interplay between hyperglycemia and SARS-CoV-2 in pancreatic β-cells. Understanding these mechanisms may help unlock urgent therapeutic strategies to mitigate the detrimental effects of COVID-19 in diabetic patients and unveil if the virus itself can trigger diabetes onset.

The prognostic significance of insulin resistance in COVID-19: a review

Objectives

Emerging publications indicate that diabetes predisposes patients with COVID-19 to more severe complications, which is partly attributed to inflammatory condition. In the current review, we reviewed recent published literature to provide evidence on the role of insulin resistance (IR) in diabetes, the association between diabetes and COVID-19 severity and mortality, the impact of COVID-19 infection on incident new-onset diabetes, mechanisms responsible for IR in COVID-19 patients, and the predictive value of different surrogates of IR in COVID-19.

Method

The literature search performs to find out studies that have assessed the association between IR surrogates and morbidity and mortality in patients with COVID-19.

Results

We showed that there is a bulk of evidence in support of the fact that diabetes is a potent risk factor for enhanced morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients. COVID-19 patients with diabetes are more prone to remarkable dysglycemia compared to those without diabetes, which is associated with an unfavourable prognosis. Furthermore, SARS-COV2 can make patients predispose to IR and diabetes via activating ISR, affecting RAAS signaling pathway, provoking inflammation, and changing the expression of PPARɣ and SREBP-1. Additionally, higher IR is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients and different surrogates of IR can be utilized as a prognostic biomarker for COVID-19 patients.

Conclusion

Different surrogates of IR can be utilized as predictors of COVID-19 complications and death.

COVID-19 associated mucormycosis surge: A review on multi-pathway mechanisms

Mucormycosis is a fungal infection caused by moulds from the Mucorales order. Concerns have been mounting due to the alarming increase in severe morbidity and mortality associated with mucormycosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. This condition, known as COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM), has been linked to various environmental, host-related, and medical factors on a global scale. We have categorized the most significant potential risk factors for developing mucormycosis in individuals with a previous history of coronavirus infection into 10 major categories. These categories include acute hyperglycemia, the impact of cytokine release, immune response deficiencies in COVID-19 patients, microvasculopathy and dysfunction of endothelial cells, imbalances in iron metabolism, metabolic acidosis, organ damage resulting from COVID-19, underlying health conditions (such as diabetes), environmental factors, and medical treatments that can be iatrogenic in nature (such as inappropriate glucocorticoid use). Many of these factors can lead to potentially life-threatening infections that can complicate the treatment of COVID-19. Physicians should be vigilant about these factors because early detection of mucormycosis is crucial for effective management of this condition.

Macrophage Activation Syndrome in Coinciding Pandemics of Obesity and COVID-19: Worse than Bad

Epigenetic changes have long-lasting impacts, which influence the epigenome and are maintained during cell division. Thus, human genome changes have required a very long timescale to become a major contributor to the current obesity pandemic. Whereas bidirectional effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and obesity pandemics have given the opportunity to explore, how the viral microribonucleic acids (miRNAs) use the human's transcriptional machinery that regulate gene expression at a posttranscriptional level. Obesity and its related comorbidity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and new-onset diabetes due to severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are additional risk factors, which increase the severity of COVID-19 and its related mortality. The higher mortality rate of these patients is dependent on severe cytokine storm, which is the sum of the additional cytokine production by concomitant comorbidities and own cytokine synthesis of COVID-19. Patients with obesity facilitate the SARS-CoV-2 entry to host cell via increasing the host's cell receptor expression and modifying the host cell proteases. After entering the host cells, the SARS-CoV-2 genome directly functions as a messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and encodes a set of nonstructural proteins via processing by the own proteases, main protease (Mpro), and papain-like protease (PLpro) to initiate viral genome replication and transcription. Following viral invasion, SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces insulin secretion via either inducing β-cell apoptosis or reducing intensity of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors and leads to new-onset diabetes. Since both T2D and severity of COVID-19 are associated with the increased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, high glucose levels in T2D aggravate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Elevated neopterin (NPT) value due to persistent interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-mediated monocyte-macrophage activation is an indicator of hyperactivated pro-inflammatory phenotype M1 macrophages. Thus, NPT could be a reliable biomarker for the simultaneously occurring COVID-19-, obesity- and T2D-induced cytokine storm. While host miRNAs attack viral RNAs, viral miRNAs target host transcripts. Eventually, the expression rate and type of miRNAs also are different in COVID-19 patients with different viral loads. It is concluded that specific miRNA signatures in macrophage activation phase may provide an opportunity to become aware of the severity of COVID-19 in patients with obesity and obesity-related T2D.

The post-COVID stress syndrome: from the three-stage stress response of Hans Selye to COVID-19

Stress is the nonspecific response of the body to any demand made upon it, as defined by Hans Selye more than 80 years ago, based on his animal experiments at McGill University in Montreal, Canada. By emphasizing 'nonspecificity' he tried to underline that stress response is elicited my several factors, like nowadays in COVID-19, e.g., fear of infection, social isolation, death in family, loss of employment, etc. Thus, COVID-19 has been the largest new human stressor in the twenty-first century. Selye's studies in rats also revealed 3 stages of stress response: the short initial "alarm reaction" is followed by a longer "stage of resistance", associated with increased levels of corticosterone that is often terminated by a "stage of exhaustion", referring to an exhausted adrenal cortex when the secretion of glucocorticoids drops. Fast forward, that is exactly what has been documented in severe cases of infections caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus: in hospitalized COVID-19 patients initially the blood levels of cortisol not only have been elevated, but only those with high concentration of this natural anti-inflammatory corticosteroid survived vs. those who had low levels of cortisol, suggesting diminished adrenocortical functions. Furthermore, patients with very severe cases of COVID-19 who ended up in intensive care units had significantly low cortisol blood levels, compared to patients with equal severity of diseases due to other causes. Thus, these 'natural phenomena' in clinical medicine, unfortunately confirmed Selye's studies in experimental animals several decades ago. Still, the good news is that astute clinicians empirically recognized this and started to give potent synthetic glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone to severe COVD-19 patients and this beneficial effect of exogenous corticoids has been extensively confirmed in the scientific literature.

Prevalence of high-risk conditions for severe COVID-19 among Medicaid-enrolled children with autism and mental health diagnoses in the United States

LAY ABSTRACT

Children are at risk of varying severity of illness and even death from COVID-19. We aim to determine whether autistic children or children with mental health conditions have more underlying health conditions that put people at risk of severe illness from COVID-19. We use data from a national sample of Medicaid-enrolled children for the years 2008-2016. These data include children across the 50 states and the District of Columbia. We compare the prevalence of underlying conditions among autistic children and children with mental health condition to that of other children in Medicaid. This study included 888,487 autistic children, 423,397 with any mental health condition (but not autism), and 932,625 children without any of these diagnoses. We found 29.5% of autistic children and 25.2% of children with mental health conditions had an underlying condition with high risk for severe illness from COVID, compared to 14.1% of children without these diagnoses. Autistic children had over twice the odds of having any underlying conditions, when accounting for age, race, sex, and other characteristics. Children with mental health conditions had 70% higher odds of having these underlying conditions. Mitigation measures in schools and other areas could minimize risk of short- and long-term impacts from COVID for autistic and all children.

The effects of prolactin on the immune system, its relationship with the severity of COVID-19, and its potential immunomodulatory therapeutic effect

Prolactin (PRL) is an endocrine hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that has a variety of physiological effects, including milk production, immune system regulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Elevated levels of PRL have been found in several viral infections, including 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2), a viral pathogen that has recently spread worldwide. PRL production is increased in SARS-CoV2 infection. While PRL can trigger the production of proinflammatory cytokines, it also has several anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce hyperinflammation. The exact mechanism of PRL's contribution to the severity of COVID-19 is unknown. The purpose of this review is to discuss the interaction between PRL and SARS-CoV2 infection and its possible association with the severity of COVID-19.

Drug-Induced Acute Pancreatitis in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a systemic disease that affects not only the respiratory system, but also other systems, including gastrointestinal. A great number of different drugs have been used on hospitalized patients for the management of COVID-19, and acute pancreatitis (AP) has been reported as a complication or side effect of these drugs. The development of drug-induced acute pancreatitis (DIAP) follows a complex of pathophysiological mechanisms, and particular risk factors play a key role. Diagnosis of DIAP depends on specific criteria, and based on these, a drug may be characterized as having a definite, probable or possible connection with AP. The aim of this review is to present the medications that are used for COVID-19 management and are associated with AP in hospitalized patients. The list of these drugs mainly includes corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antiviral agents, antibiotics, monoclonal antibodies, estrogens and anesthetic agents. Moreover, the prevention of the development of DIAP is vital, especially for critically ill patients who may receive multiple drugs. DIAP management is mainly non-invasive and the first step concerns the exception of the suspicious drug from patients therapy.

A review of cytokine-based pathophysiology of Long COVID symptoms

The Long COVID/Post Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) group includes patients with initial mild-to-moderate symptoms during the acute phase of the illness, in whom recovery is prolonged, or new symptoms are developed over months. Here, we propose a description of the pathophysiology of the Long COVID presentation based on inflammatory cytokine cascades and the p38 MAP kinase signaling pathways that regulate cytokine production. In this model, the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection is hypothesized to trigger a dysregulated peripheral immune system activation with subsequent cytokine release. Chronic low-grade inflammation leads to dysregulated brain microglia with an exaggerated release of central cytokines, producing neuroinflammation. Immunothrombosis linked to chronic inflammation with microclot formation leads to decreased tissue perfusion and ischemia. Intermittent fatigue, Post Exertional Malaise (PEM), CNS symptoms with "brain fog," arthralgias, paresthesias, dysautonomia, and GI and ophthalmic problems can consequently arise as result of the elevated peripheral and central cytokines. There are abundant similarities between symptoms in Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). DNA polymorphisms and viral-induced epigenetic changes to cytokine gene expression may lead to chronic inflammation in Long COVID patients, predisposing some to develop autoimmunity, which may be the gateway to ME/CFS.

Obesity-Associated Hepatic Steatosis, Somatotropic Axis Impairment, and Ferritin Levels Are Strong Predictors of COVID-19 Severity

The full spectrum of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients has not yet been defined. This study aimed to evaluate which parameters derived from CT, inflammatory, and hormonal markers could explain the clinical variability of COVID-19. We performed a retrospective study including SARS-CoV-2-infected patients hospitalized from March 2020 to May 2021 at the Umberto I Polyclinic of Rome. Patients were divided into four groups according to the degree of respiratory failure. Routine laboratory examinations, BMI, liver steatosis indices, liver CT attenuation, ferritin, and IGF-1 serum levels were assessed and correlated with severity. Analysis of variance between groups showed that patients with worse prognoses had higher BMI and ferritin levels, but lower liver density, albumin, GH, and IGF-1. ROC analysis confirmed the prognostic accuracy of IGF-1 in discriminating between patients who experienced death/severe respiratory failure and those who did not (AUC 0.688, CI: 0.587 to 0.789, p < 0.001). A multivariate analysis considering the degrees of severity of the disease as the dependent variable and ferritin, liver density, and the standard deviation score of IGF-1 as regressors showed that all three parameters were significant predictors. Ferritin, IGF-1, and liver steatosis account for the increased risk of poor prognosis in COVID-19 patients with obesity.

Avascular necrosis of the epiphyses of bones in patients who have had SARS-CoV-2 infection: Clinical observations and a narrative review of literature data

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic is a leading medical problem that is in the focus of attention of representatives of all medical specialties. In addition to fighting the COVID-19 infection itself, the task of preventing and treating a wide range of complications arising after the disease is becoming increasingly urgent. One of these complications is avascular necrosis (AN) of bone tissue – a severe pathology that leads to serious suffering, a decrease in the quality of life and disability of patients. For the period from 2020 to 2022 there are 9 reviews in the world literature devoted to the pathogenesis, clinical features and treatment possibilities of this complication. During the same period, 5 articles were published describing clinical observations of AN after suffering COVID-19.The purpose of this work is to demonstrate our own clinical observations, as well as to review the available literature data on the problem of AN after COVID-19 infection. Based on the analysis, it can be concluded that AN after SARS-CoV-2 infection most often develops in the femoral head (>50% of cases), occurs regardless of the severity of the disease and the cumulative dose of glucocorticoids used in the acute period of the disease. It seems advisable to perform an MRI of the hip joints at least once every 3 months for all patients who have had COVID-19 in severe and moderate form during the first year after convalescence.

Potential Therapeutic Benefits of Metformin Alone and in Combination with Sitagliptin in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes Patients with COVID-19

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a potential risk factor for the development of COVID-19 and is associated with higher severity and mortality rates. T2DM patients are commonly treated with metformin monotherapy or metformin plus sitagliptin. In the present case-control, single-center cohort study, a total number of 112 T2DM patients suffering from COVID-19 and aged 44−62 years old were compared with 78 T2DM patients without COVID-19 and aged 42−56 years old. Both the patient group and the control group were allocated into four groups. Group A: T2DM patients with COVID-19 on metformin treatments plus standard therapy (n = 60); group B: T2DM patients with COVID-19 on metformin plus sitagliptin plus standard therapy (n = 52); group C: T2DM patients without COVID-19 on metformin treatments (n = 40); and group D: T2DM patients without COVID-19 on metformin plus sitagliptin (n = 38). The investigation duration was 2−3 weeks. Anthropometric measurements, serological and biochemical investigations, pulmonary radiological findings, and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Only 101 T2DM patients with COVID-19 continued the study, 71 (70.29%) with mild-moderate COVID-19 and 30 (29.7%) with severe COVID-19 were compared with 78 T2DM patients as a control. Inflammatory biomarkers (C reactive protein, ferritin, and procalcitonin), a lung injury biomarker (lactate dehydrogenase), and a coagulopathy biomarker (D-dimer) were elevated in severe COVID-19 patients compared with mild-moderate COVID-19 (p < 0.05) and T2DM patients (p < 0.05). However, metformin plus sitagliptin was more effective than metformin monotherapy in T2DM patients with COVID-19, as evidenced by the mitigation of oxidative stress, CT scan score, and clinical outcomes. The present study confirmed the protective effects of this combination against the development of COVID-19 severity, as most T2DM COVID-19 patients develop mild-moderate forms. Herein, the combination of metformin and sitagliptin may lead to more beneficial effects than metformin monotherapy.

Analysis of Adrenocorticotropic Hormone and Cortisol Levels in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome COVID-19 Patients

Objective

SARS-CoV-2 infection may cause multiple organ failure. However, scarce information can be found on the impact on the endocrine system. This study was conducted to determine plasma Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and plasma cortisol levels in a cohort of COVID-19 patients with Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted on COVID-19 patients who manifested ARDS and were admitted to the ICU of Dr. Soetomo Tertiary Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia. Morning plasma ACTH and plasma total cortisol were measured on 45 recruited patients. The outcome of the patient was justified based on the survivance on days 7th and 30th during the follow-up with groupings of surviving for survived patients and nonsurvive for deceased patients.

Results

The ACTH and cortisol median were 1.06 (0.5–64.57) pg/mL and 17.61 (0.78–75) μg/dL, respectively. Both parameters were assembled to allow the allocation of the 45 subjects into the survive and nonsurvive groups. There was a moderate correlation between ACTH and cortisol levels in all groups (r = 0.46, p < 0.002) and particularly ACTH and cortisol levels in COVID-19 patients who survived on the 7th-day and 30th-day follow-up (r = 0.518 and r = 0.568, respectively, with p < 0.05). It is important to note that there was no correlation for an individual parameter, either ACTH only or cortisol only, compared to the outcome among patients with various comorbid.

Conclusion

ACTH or cortisol alone has no correlation to the outcome of these patients. Therefore, further study of the potential use of corticosteroid treatments guided by ACTH and cortisol levels in reducing the risk of ARDS warrants further investigation.

Therapeutic prospects of ceRNAs in COVID-19

Since the end of 2019, COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 has spread worldwide, and the understanding of the new coronavirus is in a preliminary stage. Currently, immunotherapy, cell therapy, antiviral therapy, and Chinese herbal medicine have been applied in the clinical treatment of the new coronavirus; however, more efficient and safe drugs to control the progress of the new coronavirus are needed. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) may provide new therapeutic targets for novel coronavirus treatments. The first aim of this paper is to review research progress on COVID-19 in the respiratory, immune, digestive, circulatory, urinary, reproductive, and nervous systems. The second aim is to review the body systems and potential therapeutic targets of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and circRNAs in patients with COVID-19. The current research on competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) (lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA and circRNA-miRNA-mRNA) in SARS-CoV-2 is summarized. Finally, we predict the possible therapeutic targets of four lncRNAs, MALAT1, NEAT1, TUG1, and GAS5, in COVID-19. Importantly, the role of PTEN gene in the ceRNA network predicted by lncRNA MALAT1 and lncRNA TUG1 may help in the discovery and clinical treatment of effective drugs for COVID-19.

Suppression of Pituitary Hormone Genes in Subjects Who Died From COVID-19 Independently of Virus Detection in the Gland

CONTEXT

Involvement of the pituitary gland in SARS-CoV-2 infection has been clinically suggested by pituitary hormone deficiency in severe COVID-19 cases, by altered serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels in hospitalized patients, and by cases of pituitary apoplexy. However, the direct viral infection of the gland has not been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether the SARS-CoV-2 genome and antigens could be present in pituitary glands of lethal cases of COVID-19, and to assess possible changes in the expression of immune-related and pituitary-specific genes.

METHODS

SARS-CoV-2 genome and antigens were searched in the pituitary gland of 23 patients who died from COVID-19 and, as controls, in 12 subjects who died from trauma or sudden cardiac death. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR), in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy were utilized. Levels of mRNA transcripts of immune-related and pituitary-specific genes were measured by the nCounter assay.

RESULTS

The SARS-CoV-2 genome and antigens were detected in 14/23 (61%) pituitary glands of the COVID-19 group, not in controls. In SARS-CoV-2-positive pituitaries, the viral genome was consistently detected by PCR in the adeno- and the neurohypophysis. Immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the pituitary. Activation of type I interferon signaling and enhanced levels of neutrophil and cytotoxic cell scores were found in virus-positive glands. mRNA transcripts of pituitary hormones and pituitary developmental/regulatory genes were suppressed in all COVID-19 cases irrespective of virus positivity.

CONCLUSION

Our study supports the tropism of SARS-CoV-2 for human pituitary and encourages exploration of pituitary dysfunction after COVID-19.

Admission Hyperglycemia as a Predictor of COVID-19 Pneumonia, Cytokine Release Syndrome Progression, and Clinical Outcomes in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Introduction Diabetes and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are interrelated. The presence of hyperglycemia per se during COVID-19 infection regardless of diabetes status has been associated with poor prognosis and increased risk of mortality. Objectives The main aim of the current study was to assess the association between admission hyperglycemia and COVID-19 outcomes. Methods This is a retrospective cohort study including 315 patients, mainly employed in the facility, who presented to the emergency department or were admitted with confirmed COVID-19 infection from April 2020 to August 2021. Results The mean age of the studied cohort was 40.2±12.5 years, where 59.68% were males and 37.7% were symptomatic. Older age, male gender, history of diabetes and hypertension, and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were associated with a significantly increased risk of developing cytokine release syndrome (CRS). Admission hyperglycemia was significantly associated with poor outcomes. The time to negativity was 9.30±0.1 days for asymptomatic patients; however, it increased significantly according to clinical presentation, presence of comorbidities, and severe outcomes, in patients with cytokine release syndrome. Conclusions Admission hyperglycemia was associated with an increased risk of progression to critical condition in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 independent of the history of diabetes. Therefore, it should not be overlooked but instead should be detected and appropriately treated to improve outcomes. In addition, post-COVID-19 care should be individualized, where severe cases require almost double the time needed by mild cases to convert to negative.

An Unanticipated Worsening of Glycemic Control Following a Mild COVID-19 Infection

We describe a case of acute-onset worsening of a patient’s previously well-controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) following his recovery from a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. A 78-year-old male with a three-year medical history of well-controlled T2DM (controlled by diet and metformin) presented to the outpatient clinic to discuss his regularly scheduled six-month lab work. He mentioned having a mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection lasting one week which required no medical treatment approximately two months before his current visit. His labs, taken one week prior to his current visit, were notable for fasting hyperglycemia, 301mg/dL, and an elevated hemoglobin A_1C (HbA_1C), 11%. A fasting blood glucose level was recorded at his current in-office visit and was found to be 403mg/dL. These findings were not anticipated - our patient reported no change in his meals, medications, or exercise routines. The only notable change he reported between visits was his COVID-19 infection. This case report explores the link between this virus and our patient's exacerbation of his previously well-controlled T2DM. Whether it be through insulin resistance or deficiency (or another unknown mechanism), our patient's prior novel COVID-19 infection could potentially be associated with his unprecedented altered glucose metabolism. 

Interplay of Vitamin D and CYP3A4 Polymorphisms in Endocrine Disorders and Cancer

Vitamin D has received considerable optimistic attention as a potentially important factor in many pathological states over the past few decades. However, the proportion of the active form of vitamin D metabolites responsible for biological activity is highly questionable in disease states due to flexible alterations in the enzymes responsible for their metabolism. For instance, CYP3A4 plays a crucial role in the biotransformation of vitamin D and other drug substances. Food-drug and/or drug-drug interactions, the disease state, genetic polymorphism, age, sex, diet, and environmental factors all influence CYP3A4 activity. Genetic polymorphisms in CYP450-encoding genes have received considerable attention in the past few decades due to their extensive impact on the pharmacokinetic and dynamic properties of drugs and endogenous substances. In this review, we focused on CYP3A4 polymorphisms and their interplay with vitamin D metabolism and summarized the role of vitamin D in calcium homeostasis, bone diseases, diabetes, cancer, other diseases, and drug substances. We also reviewed clinical observations pertaining to CYP3A4 polymorphisms among the aforementioned disease conditions. In addition, we highlighted the future perspectives of studying the pharmacogenetics of CYP3A4, which may have potential clinical significance for developing novel diagnostic genetic markers that will ascertain disease risk and progression.

COVID-19 infection and thyroid function

Context

Patients and methods

Results

Conclusion

Genetically modified mice for research on human diseases: A triumph for Biotechnology or a work in progress?

Genetically modified mice are engineered as models for human diseases. These mouse models include inbred strains, mutants, gene knockouts, gene knockins, and ‘humanized’ mice. Each mouse model is engineered to mimic a specific disease based on a theory of the genetic basis of that disease. For example, to test the amyloid theory of Alzheimer’s disease, mice with amyloid precursor protein genes are engineered, and to test the tau theory, mice with tau genes are engineered. This paper discusses the importance of mouse models in basic research, drug discovery, and translational research, and examines the question of how to define the “best” mouse model of a disease. The critiques of animal models and the caveats in translating the results from animal models to the treatment of human disease are discussed. Since many diseases are heritable, multigenic, age-related and experience-dependent, resulting from multiple gene-gene and gene-environment interactions, it will be essential to develop mouse models that reflect these genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors from a developmental perspective. Such models would provide further insight into disease emergence, progression and the ability to model two-hit and multi-hit theories of disease. The summary examines the biotechnology for creating genetically modified mice which reflect these factors and how they might be used to discover new treatments for complex human diseases such as cancers, neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases.

The associations between COVID-19 diagnosis, type 1 diabetes, and the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis: A nationwide cohort from the US using the Cerner Real-World Data

OBJECTIVE

To assess the risk of new-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) diagnosis following COVID-19 diagnosis and the impact of COVID-19 diagnosis on the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in patients with prior T1D diagnosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Retrospective data consisting of 27,292,879 patients from the Cerner Real-World Data were used. Odds ratios, overall and stratified by demographic predictors, were calculated to assess associations between COVID-19 and T1D. Odds ratios from multivariable logistic regression models, adjusted for demographic and clinical predictors, were calculated to assess adjusted associations between COVID-19 and DKA. Multiple imputation with multivariate imputation by chained equations (MICE) was used to account for missing data.

RESULTS

The odds of developing new-onset T1D significantly increased in patients with COVID-19 diagnosis (OR: 1.42, 95% CI: 1.38, 1.46) compared to those without COVID-19. Risk varied by demographic groups, with the largest risk among pediatric patients ages 0-1 years (OR: 6.84, 95% CI: 2.75, 17.02) American Indian/Alaskan Natives (OR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.86, 2.82), Asian or Pacific Islanders (OR: 2.01, 95% CI: 1.61, 2.53), older adult patients ages 51-65 years (OR: 1.77, 95% CI: 1.66, 1.88), those living in the Northeast (OR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.61, 1.81), those living in the West (OR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.56, 1.74), and Black patients (OR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.47, 1.71). Among patients with diagnosed T1D at baseline (n = 55,359), 26.7% (n = 14,759) were diagnosed with COVID-19 over the study period. The odds of developing DKA for those with COVID-19 were significantly higher (OR 2.26, 95% CI: 2.04, 2.50) than those without COVID-19, and the largest risk was among patients with higher Elixhauser Comorbidity Index.

CONCLUSIONS

COVID-19 diagnosis is associated with significantly increased risk of new-onset T1D, and American Indian/Alaskan Native, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Black populations are disproportionately at risk. In patients with pre-existing T1D, the risk of developing DKA is significantly increased following COVID-19 diagnosis.

Two Case Reports of Subacute Thyroiditis after Receiving Vaccine for COVID-19

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, caused by a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2, has struck the planet with great force. As of December 2019, the virus has made its devasting route across all continents . In January 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) registered over 5.5 million COVID-19 related deaths. Most of these people had suffered from pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome , and in some cases, extensive damage to all organ systems. To get hold of this pandemic, it was vital to find effective vaccines against it. The two vaccine candidates BNT162b2 (BioNTech/Pfizer) and ChAdOx1 (University of Oxford and AstraZeneca) offer a high level of protection against COVID-19 by providing immunity due to antibody production against the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. In addition to general side effects, immunological side effects such as subacute thyroiditis can follow the vaccination. This transient inflammatory condition of the thyroid gland is characterized with hyperthyroxinemia, inflammation, pain, and tenderness in the thyroid region, as well as an elevation of serum thyroglobulin concentration. There are only a few reports on the occurrence of this disease after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. We present two cases of subacute thyroiditis after vaccination with the vaccines BNT162b2 and ChAdOx1 and try to enlighten the problem of immunological phenomena after vaccination. It must be discussed whether cross-reactivity of the spike protein and tissue proteins such as thyroid peroxidase (TPO), an “autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome by adjuvants” (ASIA), or the circulating spike protein itself after vaccination are responsible for the SAT.

Real-world evidence of the use of glucocorticoids for severe COVID-19

INTRODUCTION

Currently, only glucocorticoids have proved to impact adverse outcomes in COVID-19. However, their risk/benefit balance remains inconclusive and populations' characteristics should be considered.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to evaluate the real-life use of glucocorticoids in patients with severe COVID-19 hospitalized in a third-level referral center and to determine the type, accumulated doses, and the in-hospital outcomes related with their use.

METHODS

We evaluated a retrospective cohort of 737 patients with criteria for severe COVID-19 and a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for SARS-CoV-2. We extracted data for epidemiological analysis, medical history, and medications, as well as baseline laboratory tests. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.0 and nonparametric tests, medians, and interquartile ranges (IQR). A p < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

A total of 65.3% were men, with a median age of 59 years (IQR 46-70) and a median of 10 days of hospital stay (IQR 6-16), more than 40% had diabetes, hypertension, and/or obesity, and 0.8% used steroids chronically. At the time of the study, 54.0% had been discharged due to improvement and 40.8% died. The most common treatment used was dexamethasone 6 mg/day/10 days (46.6%). Patients with a complete dexamethasone scheme [as proposed by the Randomized Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy (RECOVERY) study] had a lower mortality risk [hazard ratio (HR) 0.441, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.232-0.840] in comparison with patients with lower doses (HR 1.803, 95% CI 1.080-3.012). Patients with methylprednisolone or several steroids tended to have higher cumulative doses (equivalent to >675 mg of prednisolone).

CONCLUSION

The use of steroids in severe COVID-19 reduces mortality only at the dose proposed in the RECOVERY study in the younger population. No benefit of the use of steroids was observed in patients with older age or higher number of comorbidities.

Challenges in the Management of the Patients with COVID-19 Infected Cushing’s Syndrome: Two Cases And Literature Review

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has become a serious health problem in Turkey and the world. The diagnosis stage of many chronic diseases, the treatment process and the status of being affected by COVID-19 have become the focus of attention in the medical community during the pandemic, which has been continuing for nine months. We will discuss the course of COVID-19 infection over a 32-year-old and 76-year-old female patient with Cushing syndrome who applied to our clinic as a tertiary referral centre.

Significant risk of COVID-19 and related-hospitalization among patients with adrenal insufficiency: A large multinational survey

OBJECTIVE

To determine self-reported incidence and potential risk factors for COVID-19 in patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI).

METHODS

A 27-item AI survey was developed for AI and COVID-19 status, vetted by specialists and patients, and distributed via social media, websites, and advocacy groups. Participation was voluntary and anonymous. Data were collected from September 20^th, 2020 until December 31^st, 2020.

RESULTS

Respondents (n=1291) with self-reported glucocorticoid treatment for AI, completed the survey, with 456 who reported having symptoms and were screened for COVID-19 during 2020; 40 tested positive (+ve), representing an 8.8% incidence. Of the COVID-19^+ve, 31 were female (78%), with mean age of 39.9 years. COVID-19 among AI patients occurred most commonly in those aged 40-59 years (n=17; 42.5%); mean time since AI diagnosis was 13.5 years (range 0.2-42.0 years). Pulmonary disease, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and higher maintenance doses of glucocorticoids were significantly associated with +ve COVID-19 (p=0.04, p=0.01, and p=0.001, respectively. In respondents the cumulative incidence of COVID-19^+ve during 2020 was 3.1%; greater than the 1.03% worldwide-incidence reported by WHO, by December 31^st, 2020. There was a 3-fold (95% CI 2.16-3.98) greater relative risk (RR) of COVID-19 infection and a 23.8- fold (95% CI 20.7-31.2) RR of hospitalization in patients with AI, compared with the global population.

CONCLUSION

A markedly raised RR of COVID-19 and hospitalization in respondents reporting chronic AI was detected. We found that a diagnosis of congenital adrenal hyperplasia, age>40 years, male gender, pulmonary disease, and higher maintenance doses of glucocorticoids were associated with greatest risk.

[Practical recommendations for screening and management of functional disorders of the adrenal cortex in cases of SARS-CoV-2 infections]

Diseases of the adrenal cortex require particular attention during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. Firstly, SARS-CoV‑2 infections can give rise to extrapulmonary manifestations and cause endocrine disorders, particularly in the adrenal cortex. Furthermore, patients with pre-existing insufficiency of the adrenal cortex or hypercortisonism are particularly at risk from a severe infection such as SARS-CoV‑2, to suffer from additional complications or a more severe course of a SARS-CoV‑2 infection with a higher mortality. Especially in hemodynamically unstable patients with a SARS-CoV‑2 infection, diseases of the adrenal glands should also be considered in the differential diagnostics and if necessary clarified, if this is not already known. Prolonged treatment of patients with a SARS-CoV‑2 infection with regimens containing high doses of glucocorticoids can also result in a secondary adrenal insufficiency. In order to address these special aspects, some practical recommendations for the diagnostic and therapeutic management of functional disorders of the adrenal glands in patients with a SARS-CoV‑2 infection are therefore presented.

Management of Patients With Glucocorticoid-Related Diseases and COVID-19

The ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is a global health crisis affecting millions of people worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 enters the host cells by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) after being cleaved by the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). In addition to the lung, gastrointestinal tract and kidney, ACE2 is also extensively expressed in endocrine tissues, including the pituitary and adrenal glands. Although glucocorticoids could play a central role as immunosuppressants during the cytokine storm, they can have both stimulating and inhibitory effects on immune response, depending on the timing of their administration and their circulating levels. Patients with adrenal insufficiency (AI) or Cushing's syndrome (CS) are therefore vulnerable groups in relation to COVID-19. Additionally, patients with adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) could also be more vulnerable to COVID-19 due to the immunosuppressive state caused by the cancer itself, by secreted glucocorticoids, and by anticancer treatments. This review comprehensively summarizes the current literature on susceptibility to and outcome of COVID-19 in AI, CS and ACC patients and emphasizes potential pathophysiological mechanisms of susceptibility to COVID-19 as well as the management of these patients in case of SARS-CoV-2. Finally, by performing an in silico analysis, we describe the mRNA expression of ACE2, TMPRSS2 and the genes encoding their co-receptors CTSB, CTSL and FURIN in normal adrenal and adrenocortical tumors (both adenomas and carcinomas).

A high-resolution temporal atlas of the SARS-CoV-2 translatome and transcriptome

COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which infected >200 million people resulting in >4 million deaths. However, temporal landscape of the SARS-CoV-2 translatome and its impact on the human genome remain unexplored. Here, we report a high-resolution atlas of the translatome and transcriptome of SARS-CoV-2 for various time points after infecting human cells. Intriguingly, substantial amount of SARS-CoV-2 translation initiates at a novel translation initiation site (TIS) located in the leader sequence, termed TIS-L. Since TIS-L is included in all the genomic and subgenomic RNAs, the SARS-CoV-2 translatome may be regulated by a sophisticated interplay between TIS-L and downstream TISs. TIS-L functions as a strong translation enhancer for ORF S, and as translation suppressors for most of the other ORFs. Our global temporal atlas provides compelling insight into unique regulation of the SARS-CoV-2 translatome and helps comprehensively evaluate its impact on the human genome.

Here, Kim et al. apply various sequencing techniques (RPF-seq, QTI-seq, mRNA-seq, sRNA-seq) to unravel the high-resolution, longitudinal translatome and transcriptome of SARS-CoV-2. They identify a translation initiation site in the leader sequence of all genomic and subgenomic RNAs and show its relevance for the SARS-CoV-2 translatome.

Insulin resistance in COVID-19 and diabetes

BACKGROUND

The epidemiology of COVID-19 and its association with cardiometabolic disorders is poorly understood. This is a narrative review that investigates the effects of COVID-19 infection on insulin resistance in patients with diabetes.

METHODS

An online search of all published literature was done via PubMed and Google Scholar using the MeSH terms "COVID-19," "SARS-CoV-2," "coronavirus," "insulin resistance," and "diabetes." Only articles that were directly applicable to insulin resistance in COVID-19 and diabetes was reviewed.

RESULTS

Current data shows an increased risk of mortality in patients with diabetes and COVID-19 compared to those without diabetes. COVID-19 triggers insulin resistance in patients, causing chronic metabolic disorders that were non-existent prior to infection.

CONCLUSION

Patients with diabetes are more susceptible to COVID-19 infection than those without diabetes. ACE2 expression decreases with infection, exaggerating Ang II activity with subsequent insulin resistance development, an exaggerated immune response and severe SARS-COV-2 infection.

Does inflammation link stress to poor COVID-19 outcome?

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to ravage communities across the world. Despite its primary effect on the respiratory system, the virus does not solely impact those with underlying lung conditions as initially predicted. Indeed, prognosis is worsened (often fatal) in patients with pre-existing hyperinflammatory responses (e.g., hypertension, obesity and diabetes), yet the mechanisms by which this occurs are unknown. A number of psychological conditions are associated with inflammation, suggesting that these may also be significant risk factors for negative outcomes of COVID-19. In this review, we evaluate preclinical and clinical literature suggesting that chronic stress-induced hyperinflammation interacts synergistically with COVID-19-related inflammation, contributing to a potentially fatal cytokine storm syndrome. In particular, we hypothesize that both chronic stress and COVID-19-related hyperinflammation are a product of glucocorticoid insufficiency. We discuss the devastating effects of SARS-CoV-2 on structural and functional aspects of the biological stress response and how these induce exaggerated inflammatory responses, particularly interleukin (IL)-6 hypersecretion. We postulate that chronic stress should be considered a significant risk factor for adverse COVID-19-related health outcomes, given overlapping peripheral and central immune dysregulation in both conditions. We conclude by discussing how people with a history of chronic stress could mitigate their risk for COVID-19 complications, identifying specific strategies that can be implemented during self-isolation.

The probable destructive mechanisms behind COVID-19 on male reproduction system and fertility

PURPOSE

The present study aims to summarize the current understanding of probable mechanisms and claims of adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 on male fertility potential.

METHODS

Our search was including original articles, reviews, guidelines, letters to the editor, comments on guidelines, and editorials, regarding the male reproductive system. We used the words SARS-CoV-2, coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, "2019 ncov," testis, sperm, male factor infertility, fertility treatment, semen, assisted reproductive technology (ART), sexual transmission, and ACE2.

RESULTS

Data showed coronavirus affects men more than women because of more expression of 2019 nCoV receptors (ACE2 and TMPRSS2) in testicular cells. Also, "Bioinformatics Analysis" suggests that sperm production may be damaged, since "Pseudo Time Analysis" has shown disruption in spermatogenesis. "Gene Ontology" (GO) showed an increase in viral reproduction and a decrease in sperm production-related terms. Recently, SARS-COV-2 mRNA and protein were detected in the semen of patients that had recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, the probable disruption of blood-testis barrier (BTB) in febrile diseases is suspected in the acute phase of the disease enabling viral entry into the testes. Not only is spermatogenesis disturbed, but also disturbs gonadotropin, androgens, and testosterone secretion during SARS-CoV-2 infection. No sexual transmission has been reported yet; however, detection of the virus in semen still makes the sexual transmission an open question.

CONCLUSION

There is a concern that male fertility may be disturbed after the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, follow-up of the reproductive functions and male fertility may be necessary in recovered cases, especially in aged men.

Viral infiltration of pancreatic islets in patients with COVID-19

Metabolic diseases are associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19 and conversely, new-onset hyperglycemia and complications of preexisting diabetes have been observed in COVID-19 patients. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of pancreatic autopsy tissue from COVID-19 patients using immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, RNA scope and electron microscopy and detected SARS-CoV-2 viral infiltration of beta-cells in all patients. Using SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses, we confirmed that isolated human islet cells are permissive to infection. In eleven COVID-19 patients, we examined the expression of ACE2, TMPRSS and other receptors and factors, such as DPP4, HMBG1 and NRP1, that might facilitate virus entry. Whereas 70% of the COVID-19 patients expressed ACE2 in the vasculature, only 30% displayed ACE2-expression in beta-cells. Even in the absence of manifest new-onset diabetes, necroptotic cell death, immune cell infiltration and SARS-CoV-2 viral infection of pancreatic beta-cells may contribute to varying degrees of metabolic dysregulation in patients with COVID-19.

New-onset hyperglycemia and complications of preexisting diabetes have been observed in COVID-19 patients, however, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here, the authors show that SARS-CoV-2 is detectable in both endocrine and exocrine cells of the pancreata of patients with COVID-19.

Association between population vitamin D status and SARS-CoV-2 related serious-critical illness and deaths: An ecological integrative approach

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D population status may have possible unappreciated consequences to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Α significant association between vitamin D sufficiency and reduction in clinical severity and inpatient mortality from COVID-19 disease has recently been shown, while a recent study has claimed lower COVID-19 cases in European countries with a better vitamin D status. Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D [25(OH)D] was identified as an independent risk factor for COVID-19 infection and hospitalization, and administration of 0.532 mg (21280 IU) of calcifediol or 25(OH)D, followed by 0.266 mg on days 3 and 7 and then weekly until discharge or intensive care unit admission significantly reduced the need for intensive care unit treatment.

AIM

To elucidate the role of vitamin D European population status in the COVID-19 pandemic, data from the Worldometer were analyzed.

METHODS

Linear regression explored the correlation between published representative-standardized population vitamin D concentrations and the number of total cases/million (M), recovered/M, deaths/M and serious-critically ill/M from COVID-19 for 26 European countries populated > 4 M (Worldometer). Life expectancy was analyzed with semi-parametric regression. Weighted analysis of variance/analysis of covariance evaluated serious-critical/M and deaths/M by the vitamin D population status: Deficient < 50, insufficient: 50-62.5, mildly insufficient > 62.5-75 and sufficient > 75 nmol/L, while controlling for life expectancy for deaths/M. Statistical analyses were performed in XLSTAT LIFE SCIENCE and R (SemiPar Library).

RESULTS

Linear regression found no correlation between population vitamin D concentrations and the total cases-recovered/M, but negative correlations predicting a reduction of 47%-64%-80% in serious-critical illnesses/M and of 61%-82%-102.4% in deaths/M further enhanced when adapting for life expectancy by 133-177-221% if 25(OH)D concentrations reach 100-125-150 nmol/L, sustained on August 15, 2020, indicating a truthful association. Weighted analysis of variance was performed to evaluate serious-critical/M (r 2 = 0.22) by the vitamin D population status and analysis of covariance the deaths/M (r 2 = 0.629) controlling for life expectancy (r 2 = 0.47). Serious-critical showed a decreasing trend (P < 0.001) from population status deficient (P < 0.001) to insufficient by 9.2% (P < 0.001), to mildly insufficient by 47.6% (P < 0.044) and to sufficient by 100% (reference, P < 0.001). For deaths/M the respective decreasing trend (P < 0.001) was 62.9% from deficient (P < 0.001) to insufficient (P < 0.001), 65.15% to mildly insufficient (P < 0.001) and 78.8% to sufficient (P = 0.041).

CONCLUSION

Achieving serum 25(OH)D 100-150 nmol/L (40-60 ng/mL) (upper tolerable daily doses followed by maintenance proposed doses not requiring medical supervision, Endocrine Society) may protect from serious-critical illness/death from COVID-19 disease.

COVID-19 in Relation to Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Mellitus

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), triggered by the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), may lead to extrapulmonary manifestations like diabetes mellitus (DM) and hyperglycemia, both predicting a poor prognosis and an increased risk of death. SARS-CoV-2 infects the pancreas through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), where it is highly expressed compared to other organs, leading to pancreatic damage with subsequent impairment of insulin secretion and development of hyperglycemia even in non-DM patients. Thus, this review aims to provide an overview of the potential link between COVID-19 and hyperglycemia as a risk factor for DM development in relation to DM pharmacotherapy. For that, a systematic search was done in the database of MEDLINE through Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Biology Medicine (CBM), and Wanfang Data. Data obtained underline that SARS-CoV-2 infection in DM patients is more severe and associated with poor clinical outcomes due to preexistence of comorbidities and inflammation disorders. SARS-CoV-2 infection impairs glucose homeostasis and metabolism in DM and non-DM patients due to cytokine storm (CS) development, downregulation of ACE2, and direct injury of pancreatic β-cells. Therefore, the potent anti-inflammatory effect of diabetic pharmacotherapies such as metformin, pioglitazone, sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is), and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) inhibitors may mitigate COVID-19 severity. In addition, some antidiabetic agents and also insulin may reduce SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and severity through the modulation of the ACE2 receptor expression. The findings presented here illustrate that insulin therapy might seem as more appropriate than other anti-DM pharmacotherapies in the management of COVID-19 patients with DM due to low risk of uncontrolled hyperglycemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). From these findings, we could not give the final conclusion about the efficacy of diabetic pharmacotherapy in COVID-19; thus, clinical trial and prospective studies are warranted to confirm this finding and concern.

Theory: Treatments for Prolonged ICU Patients May Provide New Therapeutic Avenues for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

We here provide an overview of treatment trials for prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) patients and theorize about their relevance for potential treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Specifically, these treatment trials generally target: (a) the correction of suppressed endocrine axes, notably through a "reactivation" of the pituitary gland's pulsatile secretion of tropic hormones, or (b) the interruption of the "vicious circle" between inflammation, oxidative and nitrosative stress (O&NS), and low thyroid hormone function. There are significant parallels in the treatment trials for prolonged critical illness and ME/CFS; this is consistent with the hypothesis of an overlap in the mechanisms that prevent recovery in both conditions. Early successes in the simultaneous reactivation of pulsatile pituitary secretions in ICU patients-and the resulting positive metabolic effects-could indicate an avenue for treating ME/CFS. The therapeutic effects of thyroid hormones-including in mitigating O&NS and inflammation and in stimulating the adreno-cortical axis-also merit further studies. Collaborative research projects should further investigate the lessons from treatment trials for prolonged critical illness for solving ME/CFS.

Successful management of a patient with active Cushing's disease complicated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia

We provide the details of the successful management of a patient with active Cushing's disease complicated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. The patient was a 27-year-old Japanese female healthcare worker who was scheduled to undergo pituitary surgery for Cushing's disease. She had been in close contact with an undiagnosed patient infected with COVID-19 and then developed COVID-19 pneumonia. Despite a lack of known risk factors associated with severe COVID-19 infection, the patient's dyspnea worsened and her respiratory condition deteriorated, as indicated by the need for 7 L/min oxygen supply by mask to maintain her oxygen saturation at >90%. Medical treatment was initiated to control hypercortisolism by the 'block and replace' regimen using steroidogenesis inhibitors and hydrocortisone. The COVID-19 pneumonia improved with multi-modal treatment including antiviral therapy. One month later, after a negative severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) test result and with appropriate protection against virus transmission to medical staff in the operating room and daily medical care nurses, trans-sphenoidal surgery was performed by our highly experienced pituitary surgeon. One month after the surgery, the patient's basal ACTH and cortisol levels and urinary free cortisol were all under the detection limit. Surgical remission was expected. Since hypercortisolism due to active Cushing's disease may worsen a COVID-19 infection, multi-disciplinary management that includes appropriate and prompt treatment strategies is mandatory in such cases.

Adrenocortical System Hormones in Non-Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients

CONTEXT

The effects of COVID-19 on the adrenocortical system and its hormones are not well known.

OBJECTIVES

We studied serum cortisol, serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), and their ratio in hospitalized non-critically ill COVID-19 patients.

DESIGN

A prospective case-control study.

METHODS

The study participants were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 consisted of 74 COVID-19 patients. The second group consisted of 33 healthy persons. Early admission above hormones levels was determined and compared between the study groups. Besides that, COVID-19 patients were grouped according to their Glasgow Coma Score (GCS), CURB-65 score, and intensive care unit (ICU) requirement, and further sub-analyses were performed.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the mean age or gender distribution in both groups. In the patients' group, the serum ACTH concentration was lower than in the healthy group (p<0.05). On the other hand, the serum cortisol levels and cortisol/ACTH ratio of the patients' group were significantly higher than of the healthy controls (p<0.05, all). Further analyses showed that, although serum cortisol and ACTH levels were not high, the cortisol/ACTH ratio was higher in COVID-19 patients with low GCS (<15) than patients with normal GCS (=15) (p<0.05). In COVID-19 in patients with different CURB-65 scores, the cortisol/ACTH ratio was significantly different (p<0.05), while serum cortisol and ACTH were not different in groups (p>0.05). Serum cortisol levels and cortisol/ACTH ratio were higher but ACTH level was lower in the ICU needed COVID-19 patients than in patients who do not need ICU (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our pilot study results showed that the cortisol/ACTH ratio would be more useful than serum cortisol and/or ACTH levels alone in evaluating the adrenocortical system of COVID-19 patients. Still, further detailed studies are needed to confirm these.

Post-covid syndrome in individuals admitted to hospital with covid-19: retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To quantify rates of organ specific dysfunction in individuals with covid-19 after discharge from hospital compared with a matched control group from the general population.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

NHS hospitals in England.

PARTICIPANTS

47 780 individuals (mean age 65, 55% men) in hospital with covid-19 and discharged alive by 31 August 2020, exactly matched to controls from a pool of about 50 million people in England for personal and clinical characteristics from 10 years of electronic health records.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Rates of hospital readmission (or any admission for controls), all cause mortality, and diagnoses of respiratory, cardiovascular, metabolic, kidney, and liver diseases until 30 September 2020. Variations in rate ratios by age, sex, and ethnicity.

RESULTS

Over a mean follow-up of 140 days, nearly a third of individuals who were discharged from hospital after acute covid-19 were readmitted (14 060 of 47 780) and more than 1 in 10 (5875) died after discharge, with these events occurring at rates four and eight times greater, respectively, than in the matched control group. Rates of respiratory disease (P<0.001), diabetes (P<0.001), and cardiovascular disease (P<0.001) were also significantly raised in patients with covid-19, with 770 (95% confidence interval 758 to 783), 127 (122 to 132), and 126 (121 to 131) diagnoses per 1000 person years, respectively. Rate ratios were greater for individuals aged less than 70 than for those aged 70 or older, and in ethnic minority groups compared with the white population, with the largest differences seen for respiratory disease (10.5 (95% confidence interval 9.7 to 11.4) for age less than 70 years v 4.6 (4.3 to 4.8) for age ≥70, and 11.4 (9.8 to 13.3) for non-white v 5.2 (5.0 to 5.5) for white individuals).

CONCLUSIONS

Individuals discharged from hospital after covid-19 had increased rates of multiorgan dysfunction compared with the expected risk in the general population. The increase in risk was not confined to the elderly and was not uniform across ethnicities. The diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of post-covid syndrome requires integrated rather than organ or disease specific approaches, and urgent research is needed to establish the risk factors.

Multiorgan impairment in low-risk individuals with post-COVID-19 syndrome: a prospective, community-based study

OBJECTIVE

To assess medium-term organ impairment in symptomatic individuals following recovery from acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.

DESIGN

Baseline findings from a prospective, observational cohort study.

SETTING

Community-based individuals from two UK centres between 1 April and 14 September 2020.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals ≥18 years with persistent symptoms following recovery from acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and age-matched healthy controls.

INTERVENTION

Assessment of symptoms by standardised questionnaires (EQ-5D-5L, Dyspnoea-12) and organ-specific metrics by biochemical assessment and quantitative MRI.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Severe post-COVID-19 syndrome defined as ongoing respiratory symptoms and/or moderate functional impairment in activities of daily living; single-organ and multiorgan impairment (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas, spleen) by consensus definitions at baseline investigation.

RESULTS

201 individuals (mean age 45, range 21-71 years, 71% female, 88% white, 32% healthcare workers) completed the baseline assessment (median of 141 days following SARS-CoV-2 infection, IQR 110-162). The study population was at low risk of COVID-19 mortality (obesity 20%, hypertension 7%, type 2 diabetes 2%, heart disease 5%), with only 19% hospitalised with COVID-19. 42% of individuals had 10 or more symptoms and 60% had severe post-COVID-19 syndrome. Fatigue (98%), muscle aches (87%), breathlessness (88%) and headaches (83%) were most frequently reported. Mild organ impairment was present in the heart (26%), lungs (11%), kidneys (4%), liver (28%), pancreas (40%) and spleen (4%), with single-organ and multiorgan impairment in 70% and 29%, respectively. Hospitalisation was associated with older age (p=0.001), non-white ethnicity (p=0.016), increased liver volume (p<0.0001), pancreatic inflammation (p<0.01), and fat accumulation in the liver (p<0.05) and pancreas (p<0.01). Severe post-COVID-19 syndrome was associated with radiological evidence of cardiac damage (myocarditis) (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In individuals at low risk of COVID-19 mortality with ongoing symptoms, 70% have impairment in one or more organs 4 months after initial COVID-19 symptoms, with implications for healthcare and public health, which have assumed low risk in young people with no comorbidities.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04369807; Pre-results.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Associated Coronavirus 2 Infection and Organ Dysfunction in the ICU: Opportunities for Translational Research

OBJECTIVES

Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, hundreds of thousands of patients have been treated in ICUs across the globe. The severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus 2 virus enters cells via the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor and activates several distinct inflammatory pathways, resulting in hematologic abnormalities and dysfunction in respiratory, cardiac, gastrointestinal renal, endocrine, dermatologic, and neurologic systems. This review summarizes the current state of research in coronavirus disease 2019 pathophysiology within the context of potential organ-based disease mechanisms and opportunities for translational research.

DATA SOURCES

Investigators from the Research Section of the Society of Critical Care Medicine were selected based on expertise in specific organ systems and research focus. Data were obtained from searches conducted in Medline via the PubMed portal, Directory of Open Access Journals, Excerpta Medica database, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature, and Web of Science from an initial search from December 2019 to October 15, 2020, with a revised search to February 3, 2021. The medRxiv, Research Square, and clinical trial registries preprint servers also were searched to limit publication bias.

STUDY SELECTION

Content experts selected studies that included mechanism-based relevance to the severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus 2 virus or coronavirus disease 2019 disease.

DATA EXTRACTION

Not applicable.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Not applicable.

CONCLUSIONS

Efforts to improve the care of critically ill coronavirus disease 2019 patients should be centered on understanding how severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus 2 infection affects organ function. This review articulates specific targets for further research.

An overview of COVID-19 in people with diabetes: Pathophysiology and considerations in the inpatient setting

INTRODUCTION

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has continued to have a devastating impact on health worldwide. There has been a rapid evolution of evidence, establishing an increased risk of morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes and concurrent COVID-19. The objective of this review is to explore the current evidence for inpatient assessment and management of diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight areas requiring further exploration.

METHODS

A literature search of databases was conducted to November 2020 using variations on keywords SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19, SARS, MERS and diabetes. Information relating to the impact of diabetes on severity of COVID-19 infection, the impact of COVID-19 infection on diabetes management and diabetes-related complications was integrated to create a narrative review.

DISCUSSION

People with diabetes and COVID-19 are at an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. It is important that people with both known and previously unrecognised diabetes and COVID-19 be promptly identified and assessed during acute illness, with close monitoring for clinical deterioration or complications. People with diabetes may require titration or alteration of their glycaemic management due to the potential for worse outcomes with hyperglycaemia and COVID-19 infection. Comprehensive discharge planning is vital to optimise ongoing glycaemic management.

CONCLUSION

Further understanding of the risk of adverse outcomes and optimisation of glycaemic management for people with diabetes during COVID-19 is required to improve outcomes. Increased glucose and ketone monitoring, substitution of insulin for some oral anti-hyperglycaemic medications and careful monitoring for complications of diabetes such as diabetic ketoacidosis should be considered.

Opportunities, Challenges and Pitfalls of Using Cannabidiol as an Adjuvant Drug in COVID-19

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may lead to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which, in turn, may be associated with multiple organ dysfunction. In this review, we present advantages and disadvantages of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating phytocannabinoid from the cannabis plant, as a potential agent for the treatment of COVID-19. CBD has been shown to downregulate proteins responsible for viral entry and to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Preclinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness against diseases of the respiratory system as well as its cardioprotective, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-convulsant properties, that is, effects that may be beneficial for COVID-19. Only the latter two properties have been demonstrated in clinical studies, which also revealed anxiolytic and antinociceptive effects of CBD (given alone or together with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol), which may be important for an adjuvant treatment to improve the quality of life in patients with COVID-19 and to limit post-traumatic stress symptoms. However, one should be aware of side effects of CBD (which are rarely serious), drug interactions (also extending to drugs acting against COVID-19) and the proper route of its administration (vaping may be dangerous). Clearly, further clinical studies are necessary to prove the suitability of CBD for the treatment of COVID-19.

ACE2 Interaction Networks in COVID-19: A Physiological Framework for Prediction of Outcome in Patients with Cardiovascular Risk Factors

BACKGROUND

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (coronavirus disease 2019; COVID-19) is associated with adverse outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). The aim of the study was to characterize the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) functional networks with a focus on CVD.

METHODS

Using the network medicine approach and publicly available datasets, we investigated ACE2 tissue expression and described ACE2 interaction networks that could be affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection in the heart, lungs and nervous system. We compared them with changes in ACE-2 networks following SARS-CoV-2 infection by analyzing public data of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs). This analysis was performed using the Network by Relative Importance (NERI) algorithm, which integrates protein-protein interaction with co-expression networks. We also performed miRNA-target predictions to identify which miRNAs regulate ACE2-related networks and could play a role in the COVID19 outcome. Finally, we performed enrichment analysis for identifying the main COVID-19 risk groups.

RESULTS

We found similar ACE2 expression confidence levels in respiratory and cardiovascular systems, supporting that heart tissue is a potential target of SARS-CoV-2. Analysis of ACE2 interaction networks in infected hiPSC-CMs identified multiple hub genes with corrupted signaling which can be responsible for cardiovascular symptoms. The most affected genes were EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor), FN1 (Fibronectin 1), TP53, HSP90AA1, and APP (Amyloid Beta Precursor Protein), while the most affected interactions were associated with MAST2 and CALM1 (Calmodulin 1). Enrichment analysis revealed multiple diseases associated with the interaction networks of ACE2, especially cancerous diseases, obesity, hypertensive disease, Alzheimer's disease, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and congestive heart failure. Among affected ACE2-network components connected with the SARS-Cov-2 interactome, we identified AGT (Angiotensinogen), CAT (Catalase), DPP4 (Dipeptidyl Peptidase 4), CCL2 (C-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 2), TFRC (Transferrin Receptor) and CAV1 (Caveolin-1), associated with cardiovascular risk factors. We described for the first time miRNAs which were common regulators of ACE2 networks and virus-related proteins in all analyzed datasets. The top miRNAs regulating ACE2 networks were miR-27a-3p, miR-26b-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-302c-5p, hsa-miR-587, hsa-miR-1305, hsa-miR-200b-3p, hsa-miR-124-3p, and hsa-miR-16-5p.

CONCLUSION

Our study provides a complete mechanistic framework for investigating the ACE2 network which was validated by expression data. This framework predicted risk groups, including the established ones, thus providing reliable novel information regarding the complexity of signaling pathways affected by SARS-CoV-2. It also identified miRNAs that could be used in personalized diagnosis in COVID-19.

Can Serum Cortisol Be Used To Monitor Patients With COVID-19?

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