@article {pmid41564315,
year = {2026},
author = {Bustamante, C and Pinilla-Bonilla, LB and Patiño Soler, M and Estravis, M},
title = {Neuraltherapeutic Medicine in Post-Acute COVID-19 Vaccination Syndrome (PACVS): A Critical Review with a Case Report.},
journal = {Restorative neurology and neuroscience},
volume = {44},
number = {3},
pages = {349-359},
doi = {10.1177/09226028251412573},
pmid = {41564315},
issn = {1878-3627},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Male ; },
abstract = {IntroductionPost-acute COVID-19 vaccination syndrome (PACVS) emerges as a syndrome of persistent symptoms of a multisystemic nature, even in previously healthy people. Its pathophysiology involves a neural phase characterized by the neuroimmune reflex and persistent secondary neurogenic inflammation. Frequent manifestations such as dysautonomia, neurological alterations, and musculoskeletal symptoms have been described.ObjectiveTo review the current evidence on PACVS and explore the therapeutic potential of Neuraltherapeutic Medicine (NTM), illustrated with a clinical case.Material and methodsA targeted literature review search was conducted in MEDLINE (up to June 2024) using the terms "post-COVID-19 vaccination syndrome", "covid vaccine adverse effects", "inflammatory reflex" and "neural therapy". In addition, a clinical case of a 75-year-old patient with persistent musculoskeletal pain post-vaccination, treated with NTM, was documented.ResultsThe pathophysiology of PACVS includes neuroimmune mechanisms such as response, neurogenic inflammation, and autonomic dysfunction. NTM has shown the ability to modulate the nervous system by desensitizing sources of irritation. In the case presented, the application of 0.5% procaine to the vaccination site and contralateral reflex zone resulted in complete resolution of pain within 48 h and sustained functional improvement during the three months of follow-up.ConclusionsNTM could represent a therapeutic option in the management of PACVS and other syndromes involving neurogenic inflammation. Controlled studies are required to validate its efficacy and establish standardized protocols.},
}

Humans
Aged
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Vaccination/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Male

@article {pmid41856572,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, B and Soriano, JB and Wang, Q and Al-Aly, Z and Gu, X and Wang, G and Leo, YS and Jin, Y and Shi, Q and Ohmagari, N and Liu, E and Paredes, R and Lu, H and Kim, ES and Zhang, D and Estill, J and Li, L and Spruyt, K and Yang, W and Wang, Y and Ran, MS and Luo, X and Zhang, H and Xu, J and Zhang, R and Zhao, J and Zhao, J and Evans, RA and Jeon, J and Peluso, MJ and Errett, LE and Zhang, W and Chalmers, JD and Chen, Y and , },
title = {Clinical practice guideline for long COVID prevention and treatment.},
journal = {The European respiratory journal},
volume = {68},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41856572},
issn = {1399-3003},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/therapy ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This guideline aims to address key clinical questions of long COVID, and to provide evidence-based recommendations. The target population is adults with long COVID. The primary users of the guideline are clinical physicians, clinical pharmacists, nurses and general practitioners in community healthcare institutions worldwide.

METHODS: The guideline was registered at the Practice guideline REgistration for transPAREncy platform (PREPARE-2024CN123) and followed a pre-specified protocol. A multidisciplinary working group was established and comprised 60 members from 10 countries and 10 areas of expertise, with a strong background in long COVID research and clinical practice, and methodology of guideline development. Through a two-step process, we determined eight PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) questions focusing on prevention and treatment of long COVID. After comprehensively searching literature, conducting systematic reviews and investigating patients' values and preferences, three rounds of Delphi survey were conducted among 24 international experts to reach consensus. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach was applied to rate the certainty of evidence and determine the strength of recommendations.

RESULTS: The guideline presents 10 specific recommendations, each supported by existing, updated or newly conducted systematic reviews. The key recommendations are pertinent to the following issues: 1) suggestion of vaccination or use of antiviral agents during the acute phase of COVID-19 to prevent long COVID; 2) suggestions against the use of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and glucocorticoids (patients with persistent respiratory symptoms and olfactory disorders) for long COVID treatment; 3) suggestions supporting the use of multispecies probiotics, cognitive behavioural therapy (patients with fatigue), and personalised rehabilitation (after ruling out post-exertional malaise) for long COVID treatment.

CONCLUSIONS: This guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for the prevention and treatment of long COVID. Given the limited and often low-methodological-quality evidence, all recommendations are supported by very low to moderate certainty. Further high-quality studies are needed to strengthen the evidence base.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/therapy
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Adult
Evidence-Based Medicine
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41896066,
year = {2026},
author = {Abrantes-Figueiredo, JI and Banach, DB},
title = {Roles and Processes for Pandemic Preparedness in Infection Control.},
journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America},
volume = {40},
number = {3},
pages = {725-739},
doi = {10.1016/j.idc.2026.01.013},
pmid = {41896066},
issn = {1557-9824},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pandemic Preparedness ; *Infection Control/methods ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Health Personnel ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Being adequately prepared for future pandemics is an absolute necessity for healthcare facilities so that quality patient care may continue while also protecting healthcare personnel. Strategies to protect healthcare personnel and mitigate staffing shortages must be priority to maintain inpatient, ambulatory, and preventative services. Infection preventionists and healthcare epidemiologists are experts within their respective fields and key staff that should be involved in emergency management planning alongside facility leadership. Effective communication may help bridge the gap between the unknowns of a pandemic and prevention of burnout among healthcare workers challenged with facing ethical dilemmas.},
}

Humans
*Pandemic Preparedness
*Infection Control/methods
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Health Personnel
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control

@article {pmid41967005,
year = {2026},
author = {Iskander, JK and Haridopolos, S},
title = {Making Invisible Illnesses Visible: Recognizing and Responding to Infection-Associated Chronic Conditions.},
journal = {Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America},
volume = {83},
number = {1},
pages = {e58-e61},
doi = {10.1093/cid/ciag240},
pmid = {41967005},
issn = {1537-6591},
support = {/HH/HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Chronic Disease ; Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/therapy/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Lyme Disease/therapy/diagnosis ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; United States ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Patient-Centered Care ; },
abstract = {The emergence of post-COVID conditions (PCCs) has renewed attention to infection-associated chronic conditions and illnesses (IACCIs), including myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and Lyme disease-associated chronic symptoms. Millions of Americans are affected by these debilitating, misunderstood conditions, which share symptom profiles and pathophysiologic abnormalities. IACCIs have received insufficient clinical attention and research investment. We outline elements of a patient-centered approach to care, emphasizing validation of patients' experiences, multidisciplinary management, and symptom-focused treatment. Opportunities to strengthen clinical practice include a new Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) code for chronic condition management, extended visits, and creation of welcoming care environments. Advances in PCC and ME/CFS research provide a foundation for exploring shared mechanisms and developing targeted therapies. Improved surveillance, harmonized research, and inclusive trial designs are needed to define disease burden and accelerate therapeutic progress. Coordinated action by clinicians, researchers, and policymakers can help address longstanding gaps and improve outcomes for all individuals with IACCIs.},
}

Humans
Chronic Disease
Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/therapy/diagnosis
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Lyme Disease/therapy/diagnosis
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
United States
SARS-CoV-2
Patient-Centered Care

@article {pmid42482056,
year = {2026},
author = {Arthur, SE and Turkson, G and Quarcoo, JA and Cudjoe, MAP and Trotter, C},
title = {From trial site to research emerging research hub: mapping Ghana's vaccine research ecosystem, 1977-2025.},
journal = {Health research policy and systems},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12961-026-01516-y},
pmid = {42482056},
issn = {1478-4505},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ghana's vaccine research ecosystem has evolved substantially alongside national and global immunisation efforts. However, the extent and distribution of research activity across the full vaccine development continuum have not been systematically synthesised. This review maps peer-reviewed publications and institutional reports across a nine-stage vaccine development framework from 1977 to 2025, comparing patterns between the pre-pandemic (2000-2020) and post-pandemic (2021-2025) periods.

MAIN BODY: Before 2020, vaccine-related research in Ghana was concentrated predominantly in downstream domains, including disease surveillance, programme implementation, and Phase II-III clinical trials, with notable contributions to malaria and pneumococcal vaccine development. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, publication output increased more than fivefold and diversified into emerging areas such as genomic surveillance, regulatory science, behavioural research, and digital health systems, accompanied by stronger leadership from domestic institutions. Despite this expansion, engagement in upstream domains, including discovery science, preclinical development, Phase I clinical trials, and local vaccine manufacturing, remains limited, reflecting persistent structural and infrastructure constraints.

CONCLUSIONS: Ghana has transitioned from a primarily implementation-focused setting to an increasingly active contributor to multidisciplinary vaccine evidence. Sustained investment in upstream research infrastructure, early-phase clinical trial capacity, sustainable financing mechanisms and behavioural intervention research will be essential to strengthen national vaccine sovereignty. The Ghanaian experience offers transferable lessons for other low- and middle-income countries seeking to build resilient and locally driven vaccine research ecosystems.},
}

@article {pmid42482485,
year = {2026},
author = {Ruting, W and Jiale, L and Hongxi, W and Zhenjin, H and Ruohan, Z and Yuanbo, S and Rongxin, Z and Hongzhen, T and Feng, J},
title = {Intestinal Organoids as Models to Study Viruses: Current Application and Future Perspective.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {36},
number = {},
pages = {e2603016},
pmid = {42482485},
issn = {1738-8872},
mesh = {*Organoids/virology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Intestines/virology ; *Viruses/growth & development ; Virology/methods ; Intestinal Mucosa/virology ; Host Microbial Interactions ; Models, Biological ; Microphysiological Systems ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Coculture Techniques ; },
abstract = {Intestinal organoids have emerged as a transformative model system in virology, bridging the gap between conventional cell lines and animal models by recapitulating the complex cellular diversity, three-dimensional architecture, and key functions of the human intestinal epithelium. This review highlights how this technology has enabled groundbreaking studies of enteric viruses, including the successful cultivation of previously uncultivable human norovirus, and has provided critical insights into the infection mechanisms of rotavirus, enterovirus A71, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. We discuss how emerging technologies, such as co-culture systems for host-microbiome interactions, vascularization techniques, and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, are being integrated with organoids to create more physiologically relevant microphysiological systems. Despite challenges related to immune component integration and model standardization, intestinal organoids offer a promising platform for elucidating virus-host interactions, advancing antiviral drug screening, and promoting personalized infectious disease research.},
}

*Organoids/virology
Humans
Animals
*Intestines/virology
*Viruses/growth & development
Virology/methods
Intestinal Mucosa/virology
Host Microbial Interactions
Models, Biological
Microphysiological Systems
Host-Pathogen Interactions
Coculture Techniques

@article {pmid42483585,
year = {2026},
author = {Hirvonen, A and Pellegrinelli, L and Binda, S and Pariani, E},
title = {Wastewater-Based Epidemiology for Infectious Diseases: A New Trick for an Old Threat.},
journal = {Environment & health (Washington, D.C.)},
volume = {4},
number = {7},
pages = {1309-1316},
pmid = {42483585},
issn = {2833-8278},
abstract = {Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is an innovative approach to epidemiology that offers unique opportunities for public health surveillance. Its potential had been recognized in various applications over the years, but it was the global scale of the response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic that truly brought WBE to the fore. In this perspective paper we explore the untapped potential of WBE as a catalyst for infectious disease surveillance and as a One Health epidemiological tool, and the future horizons and innovative applications of WBE. It is clear that WBE will address a growing number of pathogens of concern to human health, such as avian influenza viruses, mpox, enterovirus D68, Candida auris, and antimicrobial resistance. In addition, it will contribute to epidemic intelligence by monitoring mass gathering events, and by predictive modeling and forecasting in combination with artificial intelligence to mitigate and prevent infectious diseases from reaching the highest level of clinical complexity. We believe that the maximum performance and complete institutional integration into public health of WBE is yet to be realized on a global scale.},
}

@article {pmid42485149,
year = {2026},
author = {January, J and Januarie, K and Sanga, N and Oranzie, M and Tovide, O and Uhuo, O and Iwuoha, E},
title = {Advances on Sensors and Diagnostics of SARS-CoV-2 Biomarkers.},
journal = {Analytical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1021/acs.analchem.6c02206},
pmid = {42485149},
issn = {1520-6882},
}

@article {pmid42486499,
year = {2026},
author = {Clemén, H and Ramu, S and Uller, L},
title = {The triple-hit hypothesis: exploring pulmonary e-cigarette, PM2.5 and viral polyexposure.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {35},
number = {181},
pages = {},
pmid = {42486499},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems ; *Vaping/adverse effects ; Animals ; *Particulate Matter/adverse effects ; *Lung/virology/immunology/drug effects/physiopathology/metabolism/pathology ; Risk Factors ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/immunology ; Particle Size ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Aerosols ; *Inhalation Exposure/adverse effects ; *E-Cigarette Vapor/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Exposure to e-cigarette aerosols, particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 µm (PM2.5) and respiratory viruses rarely occurs in isolation, but rather in complex polyexposure contexts during daily life. On a cellular and molecular level, vaping induces a distinct lipid-laden macrophage phenotype, alters pulmonary neutrophilic infiltration and impairs epithelial differentiation and ciliary function. In contrast, PM2.5 alters the macrophage polarisation equilibrium, temporally favouring an acute pro-inflammatory phenotype and a subsequent chronic tissue-remodelling phenotype, while also driving an oxidative inflammatory epithelial milieu. Both exposures thus impair antiviral defences and enhance susceptibility to respiratory viral infections such as influenza A, rhinovirus and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. The triple-hit hypothesis proposes that concurrent exposure to vaping aerosols, PM2.5 and respiratory viruses may exert additive or synergistic effects on chronic airway inflammation. PM2.5 may amplify vaping-induced macrophage lipid accumulation, thereby reducing the macrophage clearance capacity. Decreased efferocytosis and autophagy may further exacerbate inflammation by increasing secondary necrosis from apoptotic cells and debris. This persistent inflammatory state coupled with epithelial injury and impaired antiviral responses may increase the risk of infection and accelerate the development or progression of chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma and COPD. These insights highlight the crucial need for polyexposure models to accurately reflect real-world environmental and behavioural exposures and evaluate their impact on respiratory health and disease exacerbations. Understanding this exposure triad is also crucial for refining exposure guidelines, updating risk assessments and implementing preventive strategies.},
}

Humans
*Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems
*Vaping/adverse effects
Animals
*Particulate Matter/adverse effects
*Lung/virology/immunology/drug effects/physiopathology/metabolism/pathology
Risk Factors
*Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/immunology
Particle Size
Host-Pathogen Interactions
Aerosols
*Inhalation Exposure/adverse effects
*E-Cigarette Vapor/adverse effects

@article {pmid42486943,
year = {2026},
author = {Vaidya, N and Zhang, Z and Agunbiade, K and Keggin, G and Hedi, K and Winterer, J and Bobou, M and Broulidakis, J and King, S and Robinson, L and Zhang, Y and Barker, GJ and Bokde, AL and Brühl, R and Grigis, A and Lemaître, H and Lett, T and Nees, F and Papadopoulos, D and Poustka, L and Schmidt, U and Sinclair, J and Stringaris, A and Whelan, R and Walter, H and Desrivières, S and Schumann, G},
title = {Brain network-based stratification of mental health disorders: design and cohort description of the STRATIFY and ESTRA studies.},
journal = {Molecular psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42486943},
issn = {1476-5578},
support = {695313//EC | Horizon 2020 Framework Programme (EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020)/ ; 2023YFE0199700//Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology | Department of S and T for Social Development (Department of S&T for Social Development)/ ; 82150710554//National Science Foundation of China | National Natural Science Foundation of China-Yunnan Joint Fund (NSFC-Yunnan Joint Fund)/ ; 675346//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation)/ ; MRF-058-0014-F-ZHAN-C0866//RCUK | MRC | Medical Research Foundation/ ; MRF-058-0004-RG-DESRI//RCUK | MRC | Medical Research Foundation/ ; MR/R00465X/1//RCUK | Medical Research Council (MRC)/ ; },
abstract = {The STRATIFY (Brain Network-Based Stratification of Reinforcement-Related Disorders) and ESTRA (Eating Disorders Stratification) studies were established as harmonised "sibling" cohorts to develop a mechanistically informed framework for stratifying psychiatric disorders. Here, we describe the study design, methodology, and cohort characteristics. Both studies investigate how network properties of brain structure and function, together with biological markers derived from blood-based genomics, epigenetics, and proteomics, relate to reinforcement-related behaviours that cut across major depressive disorder, alcohol use disorder, psychosis, and eating disorders. A further objective is to identify discriminative multimodal features that predict disease onset, symptom course, and functional outcomes, thereby supporting the development of targeted interventions. STRATIFY and ESTRA recruited 674 patients and 70 healthy controls aged 18-30 years (76% females), supplemented by 199 age- and sex-matched healthy controls from the population-based IMAGEN cohort assessed at the same sites using harmonised protocols. Multimodal assessment included structured clinical interviews, self-report measures, cognitive testing, biosamples for molecular analyses, and multimodal MRI (structural, diffusion, resting-state, and task-based fMRI). ESTRA participants additionally completed longitudinal follow-up, and all cohorts were assessed during the COVID-19 pandemic. STRATIFY and ESTRA together constitute a large-scale, open-science resource integrating multimodal brain, behavioural, and biological data across transdiagnostic patient cohorts in early adulthood. The anonymised dataset is available to the research community through managed access, supporting international collaboration and accelerating the development of mechanistically informed classification systems and predictive tools in psychiatry.},
}

@article {pmid42488644,
year = {2026},
author = {Yamashita, M and Park, J and Park, S and Kang, HJ and Chung, YS and Lim, SA and Lee, S},
title = {Convergent innate immune and regulated cell-death pathways in selected myopathies.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1871966},
pmid = {42488644},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate ; Animals ; *Muscular Diseases/immunology/pathology ; Signal Transduction/immunology ; Muscle, Skeletal/immunology/pathology ; *Regulated Cell Death/immunology ; Innate Immunity Recognition ; Inflammasomes/immunology/metabolism ; Cytokines/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Myopathies are a heterogeneous group of skeletal muscle disorders caused by genetic mutations or acquired insults, including inflammation, infection, endocrine imbalance, and toxic exposure. Myopathies affect a substantial number of individuals worldwide and are a significant cause of chronic muscle weakness and disability. Despite diverse etiologies, progressive myofiber injury and degeneration underlie the functional decline across disease subtypes. Accumulating evidence indicates that innate immune activation and regulated myofiber death pathways, including apoptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis, contribute to disease progression in selected genetic and acquired myopathies and may represent increasingly actionable therapeutic targets. This review focuses specifically on the interplay between innate immune signaling and the regulation of cell death pathways in skeletal muscle across diverse myopathies. We discuss pattern recognition receptors, inflammasome activation, and cytokine-driven pathways, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), type I interferons (IFNs), and interleukin (IL) family signaling, highlighting how these mechanisms amplify inflammation, impair regeneration, and promote myofiber degeneration. To illustrate category-specific mechanisms, we selected representative disorders from each major myopathy group, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) as a prototypical DAMP-driven muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) as a model of secondary innate immune activation associated with RNA toxicity-induced cellular stress, dermatomyositis (DM) as a representative inflammatory myopathy, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-associated myopathy as a clinically relevant model of virus-related muscle involvement and systemic inflammation-associated muscle injury. By integrating evidence across these disease contexts, this review highlights convergent mechanisms in which innate immune dysregulation and regulated myofiber death drive muscle pathology and provide rational targets for mechanism-based therapeutic strategies.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate
Animals
*Muscular Diseases/immunology/pathology
Signal Transduction/immunology
Muscle, Skeletal/immunology/pathology
*Regulated Cell Death/immunology
Innate Immunity Recognition
Inflammasomes/immunology/metabolism
Cytokines/metabolism

@article {pmid42488856,
year = {2025},
author = {Attah, FA and Obame-Nkoghe, J and Osayomi, T and Omobowale, OC and Chachage, M and Lakoh, S and Adediji, AO and Ogunmolasuyi, AM and Nsojo, A and Famuyide, IM and Ilesanmi, O and Adenomon, M and Adekanmbi, O and Mohammed, Y and Fowotade, A},
title = {Combating Emerging Zoonotic Diseases Using One Health Strategies To Curb Local, National, Regional And Global Transmission And Mortality: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Nigerian medical journal : journal of the Nigeria Medical Association},
volume = {66},
number = {6},
pages = {2082-2102},
pmid = {42488856},
issn = {0300-1652},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Emerging zoonotic diseases account for 75% of new infectious threats worldwide due to increasing human-animal-environment interactions, land-use change, wildlife trade, and climate variability. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for integrated, joint approaches such as One Health to strengthen prevention, early detection, and response to zoonotic risks. The study objective is to synthesize evidence on the burden, drivers, challenges, and One Health strategies for combating emerging zoonotic diseases, and to identify actions to improve implementation at local, national, regional, and global levels.

METHODOLOGY: A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Studies were included if they examined zoonotic diseases using a One Health approach and were published in English. Data were synthesized thematically to identify key patterns, intervention strategies, and gaps.

RESULTS: Zoonotic diseases impose morbidity, mortality, and economic losses. Evidence shows that One Health interventions such as integrated surveillance, joint outbreak investigations, and targeted vaccination have improved detection and control of diseases. However, implementation remains hindered by fragmented communication across sectors, policy inconsistencies, limited laboratory and surveillance capacity, inadequate cross-border cooperation, and limited funding. Vulnerabilities are particularly pronounced in low- and middle-income countries.

CONCLUSION: Effective implementation needs improved governance, sustainable financing, aligned policies, robust surveillance and laboratory systems, and meaningful community engagement. Investing in interdisciplinary research, early warning systems, and integrated response mechanisms will enhance preparedness and reduce zoonotic disease transmission. A well-resourced One Health framework is essential to protect human, animal, and environmental health.},
}

@article {pmid42488877,
year = {2025},
author = {Stephen, RI and Reyes, JA and Tyndall, J and Zawaya, K and Inyang, V and Rapheal, F and Yunusa, D and Simnawa, SF and Ayogu, S and Nuhu, YB and Dunga, J},
title = {COVID-19's Hidden Impact on Chronic Liver Disease Mortality in Nigeria: Findings from an 18-Year Retrospective Review.},
journal = {Nigerian medical journal : journal of the Nigeria Medical Association},
volume = {66},
number = {6},
pages = {2312-2327},
pmid = {42488877},
issn = {0300-1652},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare systems globally, disproportionately affecting patients with decompensated chronic liver disease (DCLD) due to interrupted care, resource diversion, and the immunosuppressive state associated with DCLD.In Nigeria, where viral hepatitis is endemic, evidence on the pandemic's indirect impact on DC LD mortality remains scarce. This study examined 18-year mortality trends among patients who died from DCLD in North-eastern Nigeria and evaluated the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on DCLD-related mortalities.

METHODOLOGY: A retrospective review of 436 adult decedents with confirmed DCLD (2006-2024) was conducted at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Adamawa State. Sociodemographic and clinical data were abstracted from records. Mortality trends were analysed using Poisson regression, changepoint detection, and joinpoint analysis to identify inflection years, focusing on 2020-2022 as the pandemic window.

RESULTS: The mean age at death was 50.3 ± 14.4 years; 74.5 % were male, and 76.1 % were from low-income households. Viral Hepatitis B & C infections were linked to 67.8 % of deaths, followed by alcohol use (30.1 %). Common complications included hepatic encephalopathy (83.8 %) and portal hypertension (58.2 %). Mortality rose steadily over 18 years, with an abrupt 8.7 % increase in 2020 (p < 0.01). Joinpoint analysis identified 2013 and 2020 as major inflection points.

CONCLUSION: Mortality from DCLD in North-eastern Nigeria increased sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic. Viral hepatitis remains the dominant cause, compounded by late presentation and poor access to care. Strengthening hepatitis prevention, integrating CLD management into non-communicable disease programs, and maintaining chronic care continuity during health emergencies are crucial to mitigating future excess deaths.Top of FormBottom of Form.},
}

@article {pmid42489461,
year = {2026},
author = {Beeton, K and Case, JB},
title = {Respiratory mucosal vaccines for emerging viruses: promise and challenges.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0174825},
doi = {10.1128/jvi.01748-25},
pmid = {42489461},
issn = {1098-5514},
abstract = {Systemically administered vaccines were instrumental in reducing severe disease, hospitalizations, and deaths during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, they often failed to consistently elicit robust immunity at mucosal sites. This minireview examines a central role for respiratory mucosal immunity in protection against emerging viral pathogens and highlights key takeaways from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Evidence from SARS-CoV-2 and influenza studies demonstrates that mucosal vaccination uniquely induces secretory IgA, as well as resident memory B and T cells within the upper and lower airways, thereby promoting broader and more potent protection. Accordingly, interest in mucosal vaccination strategies has been recently renewed. However, significant knowledge gaps remain, which include determining optimal vaccination strategies (systemic prime-mucosal boost versus mucosal-only), identifying the underlying mechanisms that cause the relatively rapid decay of mucosal immunity, establishing reproducible and standardized correlates of protection, and developing safe, effective delivery platforms and adjuvants that are compatible with the respiratory environment. These challenges are particularly relevant for high-priority zoonotic threats, such as henipaviruses, hantaviruses, arenaviruses, and emerging influenza strains, for which mucosal immune responses and correlates of protection remain poorly defined. Moreover, advancing mucosal vaccine design through improved viral vectors, nanoparticle systems, and immunomodulatory adjuvants will be critical for achieving durable immunity. Ultimately, leveraging insights gained from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic may enable breakthroughs in mucosal vaccination strategies that reduce transmission, limit viral evolution, and strengthen preparedness for future respiratory pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid42491006,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, ZP and Chen, ZR and Bandara, RA and Duan, R and Cao, H and Liu, J and Hu, J},
title = {DNA-based vaccines: Advances, applications, and future prospects.},
journal = {Genes & diseases},
volume = {13},
number = {6},
pages = {102025},
doi = {10.1016/j.gendis.2025.102025},
pmid = {42491006},
issn = {2352-3042},
abstract = {DNA-based vaccines represent a promising advancement in immunization strategies, offering a novel approach for preventing infectious diseases and treating various conditions, including cancers and autoimmune disorders. These vaccines utilize genetically engineered plasmid or viral vector DNA encoding antigens of interest, which, upon administration, are taken up by host cells to produce the antigen in situ. This endogenous antigen expression elicits both humoral and cellular immune responses, mimicking natural infection pathways. Compared to conventional vaccines, DNA vaccines offer several advantages: they are relatively easy to design and manufacture, relatively stable, and capable of inducing long-lasting immunity without the need for live pathogens. Additionally, their platform is highly adaptable, enabling rapid development against emerging pathogens. Despite their success in animal models and promising results in clinical trials for infectious diseases caused by viruses, such as Zika, HPV, and SARS-CoV-2, DNA vaccines have faced challenges in eliciting robust immunogenicity in humans. Recent innovations-including improved delivery technologies, adjuvant formulations, and optimized plasmid and viral vectors-are addressing these limitations. The approval of DNA vaccines for veterinary use and recent human applications, such as Adenovirus (Ad) DNA-based Ebola vaccines and plasmid DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, ZyCoV-D, mark significant milestones. Continued research and technological refinement are expected to expand their utility in global health. Overall, DNA-based vaccines hold great potential as a next-generation platform for safe, effective, and rapid-response immunization against a broad spectrum of diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42491141,
year = {2026},
author = {Soltani, S and Choobineh, H and Nabatchian, F and Kord, M and Nikmanesh, B and Razi, F and Firouzian, H and Majidi, Z},
title = {Systematic review of amino acid profiles among COVID-19 patients caused by SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Journal of diabetes and metabolic disorders},
volume = {25},
number = {2},
pages = {201},
doi = {10.1007/s40200-026-02012-4},
pmid = {42491141},
issn = {2251-6581},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Emerging evidence highlights the critical role of amino acid metabolism in the pathogenesis and severity of COVID-19. This review included studies encompassing patients with varying degrees of disease severity, from mild to critical cases.

METHODS: A systematic review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted, and study quality was appraised using the Newcastle-Ottawa tools to explore the relationship between amino acid profiles and clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (from the start of the pandemic through the most recent data available on December 2024) identified peer-reviewed studies reporting original data on amino acid metabolism in COVID-19 patients.

RESULTS: Fourteen eligiblestudies involving 1355 confirmed COVID-19 patients (1726 total participants) were included and revealed significant disruptions inamino acid profiles. Key findings included reduced levels of arginine, glutamine, and tryptophan, alongside elevated phenylalanine andbranched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). These changes were associated with disease severity, immune suppression, systemicinflammation, and metabolic reprogramming. Dysregulation of pathways such as the urea cycle and kynurenine pathway were linked toendothelial dysfunction and immune dysregulation.

CONCLUSIONS: Dysregulated amino acid profiles may serve as potential biomarkers for disease severity and require further validation before clinical application. Restoring amino acid balance or modulating metabolic pathways could improve clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore personalized treatment strategies aimed at mitigating the metabolic consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-026-02012-4.},
}

@article {pmid41588689,
year = {2026},
author = {Diab, SS and Alvarez, I and Ramirez-Barrios, R and Reddy, A and Carvallo, FR},
title = {A review of infectious interstitial and bronchointerstitial pneumonia in cattle with an algorithm for the detection of infectious and non-infectious causes.},
journal = {Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation : official publication of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, Inc},
volume = {38},
number = {4},
pages = {653-675},
pmid = {41588689},
issn = {1943-4936},
mesh = {Animals ; Cattle ; *Cattle Diseases/diagnosis/microbiology/virology/parasitology/etiology ; *Lung Diseases, Interstitial/veterinary/diagnosis/microbiology/virology/etiology/parasitology ; Algorithms ; },
abstract = {Bovine interstitial and bronchointerstitial pneumonias are common and important diseases of cattle, caused by several infectious and non-infectious causes. Here, we review the roles of bovine respiratory syncytial virus, bovine parainfluenza virus 3, bovine alphaherpesvirus 1, bovine viral diarrhea virus, bovine coronavirus, influenza D virus, malignant catarrhal fever virus, and bovine adenovirus in interstitial or bronchointerstitial pneumonia. We describe the possible causes, pathogenesis, and diagnosis of bacterial septicemias that result in interstitial pneumonia, including E. coli, Salmonella, and Pasteurella multocida septicemias. We also review the parasitic causes of interstitial or bronchointerstitial pneumonia, primarily Dictyocaulus viviparus. Reaching a definitive postmortem etiologic diagnosis of interstitial or bronchointerstitial pneumonia can be challenging because infectious and non-infectious causes may look very similar grossly. Moreover, other conditions-that do not cause interstitial or bronchointerstitial pneumonia but rather pulmonary edema, congestion, and hemorrhage-can resemble interstitial pneumonia grossly. To guide the process of diagnosing interstitial and bronchointerstitial pneumonia, we offer an algorithm that integrates findings obtained from postmortem examination and ancillary laboratory testing. Our algorithm includes details on the gross characteristics of the lungs with interstitial or bronchointerstitial pneumonia, and we discuss other disease processes that may grossly resemble interstitial pneumonia. We highlight the key histologic features for differentiating specific causes and describe the most common ancillary laboratory tests to detect infectious and non-infectious causes.},
}

Animals
Cattle
*Cattle Diseases/diagnosis/microbiology/virology/parasitology/etiology
*Lung Diseases, Interstitial/veterinary/diagnosis/microbiology/virology/etiology/parasitology
Algorithms

@article {pmid42251316,
year = {2026},
author = {Bannout, AA and Hussein, FH and Haddad, LR},
title = {Management of Bell's palsy in a 2-month-old following COVID-19 infection: a case report and review of the literature.},
journal = {BMC neurology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42251316},
issn = {1471-2377},
mesh = {Humans ; *Bell Palsy/etiology/drug therapy/therapy/diagnosis ; Female ; Infant ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Prednisolone/therapeutic use ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pneumonia, Viral/complications ; Pandemics ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Bell's palsy (idiopathic peripheral facial nerve paralysis) is uncommon in children and is particularly rare in infants younger than one year of age. Its occurrence following viral infections, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is exceedingly rare. We report a case of Bell's palsy in an infant following COVID-19 infection and provide a review of the relevant pediatric literature.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 2-month-old female infant who developed left-sided facial weakness shortly after a COVID-19 infection. She had previously been healthy, except for a COVID-19-positive upper respiratory infection at the age of 4 weeks. Three weeks after her infection resolved, her parents noticed the sudden onset of left facial drooping, which progressed over the following three days. A diagnosis of peripheral facial nerve palsy following COVID-19 infection was proposed. Given the absence of clear treatment guidelines for infants, management options were carefully considered. The patient was ultimately started on oral prednisolone in addition to protective eye care. She demonstrated gradual clinical improvement during treatment, and at follow-up several weeks later, complete recovery of normal facial movement was observed.

CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights that Bell's palsy, although extremely rare in infancy, may occur following a viral infection such as COVID-19. A prompt and thorough evaluation is essential to exclude alternative causes of facial paralysis. Despite no clear guidelines or recommendations favoring corticosteroid treatment vs conservative management in this age category, a decision of pharmacologic treatment was taken. In this case, corticosteroid treatment was well tolerated, and no adverse events were observed. Further studies are needed to evaluate the correlation between COVID-19 infection and facial palsy in infants, and to further assess the efficacy and safety of oral prednisolone in this age group.},
}

Humans
*Bell Palsy/etiology/drug therapy/therapy/diagnosis
Female
Infant
*COVID-19/complications
*Prednisolone/therapeutic use
*Coronavirus Infections/complications
SARS-CoV-2
*Pneumonia, Viral/complications
Pandemics
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid42474726,
year = {2026},
author = {Ehrmann, S and Li, J and Liu, L and Guérin, C},
title = {Prone positioning in ARDS.},
journal = {Intensive care medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42474726},
issn = {1432-1238},
abstract = {Over the past five decades, prone positioning has evolved from single case reports to an evidence-based intervention. Initially used as a rescue therapy, it is now recognized as an integral component of lung-protective mechanical ventilation strategies, applied early in intubated patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) with a PaO2/FIO2 ratio < 150 mmHg. The COVID-19 pandemic further expanded its use to non-intubated patients, the so-called awake prone position (APP), with promising results. APP requires confirmation in non-COVID patients and in a more routine ICU practice. Improved oxygenation is a consistent and well-recognized effect of prone positioning in both intubated and non-intubated patients with ARDS. Beyond its effects on gas exchange, prone positioning mitigates ventilator-induced lung injury by reducing lung stress and strain and may also confer favorable hemodynamic effects. This article reviews the physiologic rationale for prone positioning, evidence from randomized controlled trials, current guideline recommendations, practical aspects of implementation, and ongoing questions in both intubated and non-intubated patients.},
}

@article {pmid42475596,
year = {2026},
author = {Müller, F and Tomczyk, S and Fiedrich, F},
title = {Analyzing Social Media to Infer Mental Health Status and Affective States for Crisis and Disaster Management: Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {28},
number = {},
pages = {e79762},
pmid = {42475596},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Media ; *Mental Health ; *Disasters ; *Affect ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of social media (SoMe) during crisis and disaster situations (CaDs) has gained increasing attention across disciplines. However, existing research is highly fragmented and often focused on technical aspects, with a limited understanding of how and which psychosocial information is derived from SoMe in CaDs.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review provides an overview of the current research landscape regarding the analysis of SoMe data during CaDs to obtain information about public mental health and psychosocial needs. It identifies key themes, methodological approaches, and research gaps, with a particular focus on relevance for the German context.

METHODS: Following a scoping review protocol, a structured database search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus to identify peer-reviewed studies published up to 2025. A method of triangulation combining qualitative and quantitative approaches was applied. The studies were analyzed regarding the type of CaDs, geographical focus, classification systems, methods of analysis used, and inclusion of psychosocial aspects (such as affect and mental health status).

RESULTS: Overall, we identified 179 studies that examined 267 CaDs. Of the included studies, 76% (136/179) focused on natural disasters, with biological CaDs representing 23% (41/179) of these events. For Germany, 5 studies were found, with only one covering storms, floods, or extreme temperatures, despite these making up most of the disasters in Germany per EM-DAT (Emergency Events Database) data. Most studies used datasets from Asia (especially China), while Africa was examined less often, pointing to differences in geographical representativeness. To infer mental health status or affective state, 47 studies used machine learning, 87 studies used lexicon-based approaches, and 25 studies used a combination; 14 studies used manual coding, and few studies did not explicitly mention their approach. Mental health outcomes ranged from affective valence (positive, negative, or neutral) to specific primary (eg, fear) and secondary (eg, denial) emotions and needs (eg, resources). Yet, few studies were based on theoretical models or included end-user perspectives. No study conducted real-time analysis; instead, all were retrospective. Additionally, current research focuses primarily on deficits (eg, psychological needs, negative affect, or stress), and often neglects positive mental health outcomes (eg, resilience and collective coping).

CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review underlines the rising popularity of SoMe analysis in CaDs regarding public mental health and needs. Although different techniques were developed and tested, there remain major gaps in real-time application, end-user integration, and contextual adaptation-particularly for underrepresented regions such as Africa, but also in countries such as Germany. As most models were developed or tested retrospectively (eg, using data from the COVID-19 pandemic), future research should examine the validity and tenability of such models in real-time monitoring and data, and emphasize more user-centered design and participatory research, theoretical grounding, and practical utility.},
}

Humans
*Social Media
*Mental Health
*Disasters
*Affect

@article {pmid42479201,
year = {2026},
author = {Stathopoulos, P and Kalogerakos, G and Kakoullis, SA and Michaeloudes, C and Falagas, ME},
title = {Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis in hospitalized patients with acute infectious diseases: a meta-analysis.},
journal = {European journal of clinical pharmacology},
volume = {82},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42479201},
issn = {1432-1041},
mesh = {Humans ; *Venous Thromboembolism/prevention & control/etiology ; *Anticoagulants/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Acute Disease ; *Communicable Diseases/complications/drug therapy ; Hospitalization ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Hemorrhage/chemically induced ; Fondaparinux/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) may be a significant complication in medical patients, and infectious disease has been highlighted as an additional risk factor. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis can prevent VTE and is recommended in at-risk populations, but not routinely in patients with infectious diseases.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the effectiveness of pharmacological thromboprophylaxis in patients with acute infections, excluding those involving COVID-19. The primary outcome was VTE events. Secondary outcomes were mortality and adverse events related to anticoagulant therapy.

RESULTS: Data from seven studies (four randomized controlled trials and three observational studies) involving 16,994 patients with infectious diseases were analyzed. Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis regimens consisted of unfractionated heparin, low-molecular-weight heparin (enoxaparin or dalteparin), and fondaparinux. The severity of the disease varied from acute infections to sepsis. Six studies reported fewer VTE events with thromboprophylaxis. The meta-analysis yielded a pooled odds ratio of 0.50 [95% CI: 0.37-0.69, I[2] = 47%]. Three studies reported bleeding or bruising outcomes: one observational study reported significantly more bleeding with thromboprophylaxis, while two randomized trials reported either no significant difference in severe bleeding or in mild bleeding-related adverse events. Two studies assessed mortality, but neither found a statistically significant difference with or without thromboprophylaxis. One study was at high risk of bias, and another was at critical risk of bias.

CONCLUSION: This analysis quantifies the effect of thromboprophylaxis in patients with acute infectious diseases. Although available results show that thromboprophylaxis is associated with fewer VTE events, limited data, sparse safety and mortality reporting, and heterogeneity among studies preclude reliable risk-benefit evaluation. Further prospective research is warranted.},
}

Humans
*Venous Thromboembolism/prevention & control/etiology
*Anticoagulants/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Acute Disease
*Communicable Diseases/complications/drug therapy
Hospitalization
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Hemorrhage/chemically induced
Fondaparinux/therapeutic use

@article {pmid42480062,
year = {2026},
author = {Alqarni, AA and Al-Kuraishy, HM and Alqarni, M and Eliwa, D and Al-Gareeb, AI and Bahaa, MM and Batiha, GE},
title = {Adiponectin Signaling as an Immunometabolic Regulator in COVID-19: Mechanistic Insights and Therapeutic Potential.},
journal = {Immunological investigations},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-24},
doi = {10.1080/08820139.2026.2704902},
pmid = {42480062},
issn = {1532-4311},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adiponectin is a pleiotropic adipocytokine with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and insulin-sensitizing functions. Its regulatory role in glucose and lipid metabolism, endothelial homeostasis, and immune responses positions it as a key determinant of immunometabolic resilience. Dysregulated adiponectin signaling has been increasingly implicated in adverse COVID-19 outcomes, particularly among individuals with metabolic comorbidities.

OBJECTIVE: To synthesize mechanistic, preclinical, and translational evidence on adiponectin signaling in COVID-19 and evaluate its potential as a therapeutic and lifestyle-modulated target.

METHODS: A critical review of published literature on adiponectin biology, AdipoR1/R2 receptor signaling, AMPK and PPAR-α pathways, cytokine regulation, oxidative stress, and infection-induced metabolic reprogramming was conducted.

RESULTS: COVID-19 is consistently associated with reduced circulating adiponectin, with the greatest declines observed in obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Mechanistic and animal studies show that adiponectin activation attenuates hyperinflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and multi-organ injury. These effects are mediated through AMPK activation, PPAR-α modulation, NF-κB suppression, and restoration of metabolic-immune balance.

CONCLUSIONS: Adiponectin signaling represents a promising therapeutic target for mitigating COVID-19 severity, especially in metabolically vulnerable populations. Pharmacological agonists and lifestyle interventions that enhance adiponectin pathways warrant further translational investigation.},
}

@article {pmid42481378,
year = {2026},
author = {Raiten, DJ and Bundy, DA and DeBernardo, D and Steiber, AL and Papoutsakis, C and Jimenez, EY and Proaño, GV and Rozga, M and Bremer, AA},
title = {The "Biomarkers of Nutrition for Development: Knowledge Indicating Dietary Sufficiency (BOND-KIDS)" Project-Justification and Conceptual Approach.},
journal = {The Journal of nutrition},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101614},
doi = {10.1016/j.tjnut.2026.101614},
pmid = {42481378},
issn = {1541-6100},
abstract = {The global food and nutrition enterprise is confronted with daunting challenges to all aspects of the food system, from social/economic/political crises to pandemic diseases to climate change, all of which impact our ability to meet the health needs of a growing population. The response has been focused on vulnerable groups and critical periods of human development, starting with the "first 1000 d" (i.e., pregnancy and the first 2 y of life). However, another critical developmental period, the "next 7000 d" (i.e., 2-21 y of age), has received less attention in terms of efforts to inform our understanding of the role of nutrition in the health and development of children and adolescents. Although significant effort has gone into providing nutritional support to school-aged children (particularly via school-based programs), a lack of research (and thus evidence) has constrained our ability to assess the need for and impact of these programs on health and development. The recent impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our ability to provide services to this vulnerable age group has highlighted not only the need to redouble efforts to address the effects of food and nutrition insecurity on these children but also a daunting lack of evidence to inform the development and evaluation of such programs. When viewed as a complex biological system, we can understand that school-aged children interact with both internal (biological, genetic, and nutritional) and external (social/behavioral/economic/political, home, community, and physical) environments (i.e., an ecology). The "Biomarkers of Nutrition for Development: Knowledge Indicating Dietary Sufficiency (BOND-KIDS)" Project was initiated to apply a transdisciplinary approach to address this ecology and help inform the range of communities involved in providing nutritional support to school-aged children in the United States and globally. This Executive Summary provides an overview of the conceptual approach, goals, objectives, and process of the BOND-KIDS Project.},
}

@article {pmid42481444,
year = {2026},
author = {Martins, D and Beckman, D and Loggia, M and Costanza, A and Borsini, A},
title = {Understanding neuroinflammation in post-COVID-19 syndrome: biological mechanisms, diagnostic biomarkers, and therapeutic prospects.},
journal = {Translational psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1038/s41398-026-04286-x},
pmid = {42481444},
issn = {2158-3188},
abstract = {Post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS) is an escalating global health concern, marked by persistent cognitive, neurological, and psychiatric symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although its underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood, mounting evidence implicates chronic neuroinflammation as a key driver. Sustained microglial and astrocyte activation, blood-brain barrier disruption, and aberrant cytokine signaling contribute to prolonged immune dysregulation within the central nervous system, promoting long-term brain dysfunction. In this expert review, we synthesize emerging insights into how neuroimmune processes impair brain function in PCS. We explore novel mechanistic pathways - including local sleep intrusions, impaired memory reconsolidation, and astrocyte-mediated destabilization of functional networks - that may underlie the syndrome's fluctuating and heterogeneous presentation. We evaluate fluid biomarkers of neuroinflammation, including glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), soluble TREM2, S100β, and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. In parallel, we highlight converging neuroimaging biomarkers derived from PET and MRI studies. These include increased TSPO-PET binding in limbic and frontal regions, alterations in cerebral blood flow and oxygen metabolism, neurometabolic changes detected via MR spectroscopy (e.g., elevated myo-inositol and choline), and increased free water content on diffusion imaging - each suggestive of glial activation and network-level dysfunction. We propose a multiscale, longitudinal framework that integrates molecular, neuroimaging, and behavioral data to link immune dysregulation with brain network instability and symptom emergence. Such integrative approaches are critical for advancing precision diagnostics and informing the development of targeted, mechanism-based treatments for individuals affected by PCS.},
}

@article {pmid42473682,
year = {2026},
author = {Bamberg, S and Schulte-Frankenfeld, PM and Kreye, J},
title = {Associations of viral infections and antiviral vaccinations with anti-NMDAR and other forms of autoimmune encephalitis.},
journal = {Brain, behavior, & immunity - health},
volume = {56},
number = {},
pages = {101301},
pmid = {42473682},
issn = {2666-3546},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Autoimmune encephalitis (AIE) comprises a diverse group of neurological disorders characterized by autoantibodies targeting specific antigens of the central nervous system (CNS). While the pathophysiological effects of these autoantibodies have been extensively studied, the principles and immunological triggers underlying their generation remain less well understood. Viral infections and antiviral vaccinations have been reported as potential immunological triggers. However, a systematic overview of their specific associations and frequencies across AIE subtypes is lacking.

METHODS: Here, we performed a systematic literature review in PubMed to identify published cases of AIE linked to viral infections or antiviral vaccinations, and to test whether herpes simplex virus (HSV)-associated anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor encephalitis (NMDAR-E) represents a disproportionately strong association. We quantified the frequencies of viral infection- or vaccine-related AIE across ten common antibody-defined subtypes, and characterized their epidemiological and clinical features, complemented by data from 23 population-based viral encephalitis cohorts.

RESULTS: We identified 556 cases, of which 488 were infection-associated and 68 followed vaccination. The most frequent combination was HSV infection in association with NMDAR-E, which outnumbered all other reported virus-AIE associations combined and was almost exclusively attributable to preceding HSV encephalitis (HSE). Other recurrent associations included Japanese encephalitis virus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and SARS-CoV-2 infections, although EBV- and SARS-CoV-2-associated cases were less clearly suggestive of causal post-infectious autoimmunity. Across 23 population-based viral encephalitis cohorts from five continents, HSV was the leading causative pathogen. Despite this high background frequency, HSV was significantly overrepresented among viral CNS infection-associated NMDAR-E cases in our dataset compared with the reference cohorts (P < 0.0001), indicating a disproportionate association. Most reported HSE-associated NMDAR-E cases originated from Europe and occurred in young children (median age 6 years), with a balanced sex distribution and a median interval between infection and NMDAR-E onset of 30 days.

CONCLUSION: Collectively, these findings provide the most comprehensive overview of viral infection- and antiviral vaccination-associated AIE to date and support a pathogen-specific link between HSE and secondary NMDAR-E as the most dominant virus-AIE association in the published literature. They underscore the need to elucidate the underlying immunological mechanisms and to develop biomarkers predictive of secondary NMDAR-E.},
}

@article {pmid42473975,
year = {2026},
author = {Natarajan, RA},
title = {Stage-specific circulating transcriptomic and proteomic biomarkers and regulators in colorectal cancer: bridging affordable diagnostics and translational therapeutics.},
journal = {Critical reviews in clinical laboratory sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-25},
doi = {10.1080/10408363.2026.2682852},
pmid = {42473975},
issn = {1549-781X},
abstract = {Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, driven largely by pronounced molecular heterogeneity and delayed clinical detection. Although high-throughput sequencing technologies have substantially advanced the understanding of CRC biology, their routine clinical implementation remains constrained by high costs, infrastructural requirements, and limited accessibility. This review addresses these translational barriers by systematically synthesizing circulating transcriptomic and proteomic biomarkers within a clinically scalable framework. Particular emphasis is placed on biomolecules detectable using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), two widely accessible platforms that underwent extensive global optimization during the COVID-19 pandemic and are readily adaptable to liquid biopsy workflows. Through a stage-resolved analysis, we identify 9 genomic and 7 proteomic biomarkers associated with early-stage (I-II) CRC, alongside 9 genomic and 4 proteomic biomarkers linked to advanced-stage (III-IV) disease progression. Beyond biomarker cataloging, these molecules are integrated with Cancer Hallmark pathways, clinical-stage associations, and available clinical trial evidence to evaluate their biological relevance and translational readiness. In addition, we summarize standardized operating procedure (SOP) considerations and multiplex detection strategies to improve assay reproducibility, scalability, and cross-border clinical implementation. Collectively, this review bridges molecular discovery with clinically deployable laboratory workflows and provides a translational roadmap for the development of affordable, liquid biopsy-based diagnostic strategies aimed at improving CRC detection, patient stratification, longitudinal monitoring, and early therapeutic intervention.},
}

@article {pmid41765092,
year = {2026},
author = {Tsiodras, S and Gupta, N and Hanscheid, T and Jokelainen, P and Drexler, JF and Barac, A and Gkrania-Klotsas, E and Mora-Rillo, M and Bulescu, C and Paño-Pardo, JR and Lescure, FX and Grobusch, MP},
title = {Language, trust, and the polio endgame: words matter in vaccine communication.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {32},
number = {8},
pages = {1286-1292},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2026.02.023},
pmid = {41765092},
issn = {1469-0691},
mesh = {Humans ; *Poliomyelitis/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; *Trust ; *Poliovirus Vaccine, Oral/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Communication ; Terminology as Topic ; *Health Communication ; *Language ; COVID-19 ; Vaccination/psychology ; Disease Eradication ; Poliovirus Vaccines ; },
abstract = {SCOPE: Vaccine hesitancy remains a major public health challenge, particularly in the post-COVID-19 era, and is exacerbated by misinformation and social distrust. Terminology used in scientific and public health communication may influence perceptions of vaccine safety and credibility. This Position Paper examines the use of the term 'vaccine-derived poliovirus' (VDPV) and its potential impact on vaccine confidence during the final phase of polio eradication.

METHODS: We reviewed published epidemiological, virological, and social science literature on circulating VDPV, vaccine hesitancy, and health communication. Institutional guidance from the WHO and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative was also examined. Evidence from qualitative studies exploring community perceptions of the term 'vaccine-derived poliovirus' was considered alongside broader literature on risk communication.

We examine the scientific basis and epidemiology of oral poliovirus vaccine use and circulating VDPV emergence, the evolving landscape of vaccine hesitancy, communication challenges surrounding the term VDPV, historical precedents in vaccine communication, the role of disinformation, and the potential risks and benefits of revising established terminology. We recommend that stakeholders formally evaluate the implications of current nomenclature, consider alternative terms and dual-layer communication strategies that distinguish technical from public-facing language, and ensure that any modification of terminology is accompanied by transparent justification.},
}

Humans
*Poliomyelitis/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
*Trust
*Poliovirus Vaccine, Oral/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Communication
Terminology as Topic
*Health Communication
*Language
COVID-19
Vaccination/psychology
Disease Eradication
Poliovirus Vaccines

@article {pmid42114091,
year = {2026},
author = {Johnson, D and Quinn, S and Algase, LF and Watkins, C and , },
title = {Telemedicine Policy and Practice: A Position Paper From the American College of Physicians.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {7},
pages = {1030-1032},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-04194},
pmid = {42114091},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *Telemedicine/legislation & jurisprudence/economics/organization & administration ; United States ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Health Policy ; Licensure, Medical ; Health Services Accessibility ; Patient Safety ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/therapy ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/therapy ; Betacoronavirus ; Practice Patterns, Physicians' ; },
abstract = {In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, federal policymakers temporarily lifted long-standing restrictions on telemedicine, resulting in an unprecedented and rapid expansion of virtual care across video, audio, and asynchronous modalities. When integrated into longitudinal care relationships, telemedicine can increase access, reduce patient burden, and support continuity for people facing geographic, mobility, or socioeconomic barriers. However, telemedicine also introduces new clinical, regulatory, equity, and safety challenges that require deliberate policy design. Beyond its clinical considerations, telehealth offers environmental and logistical benefits, including reduced travel time and cost, decreased fuel consumption, lower transportation expenses, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. In this position paper, the American College of Physicians updates its previous policy paper on telemedicine to reflect changes in payment policy, licensure, prescribing authority, and utilization patterns that have occurred over the past decade and accelerated during the COVID-19 public health emergency. This paper focuses on access, payment policy, licensure, prescribing practices, equity, and patient safety across federal and state programs and private payers and emphasizes the conditions under which telemedicine should be integrated into clinical practice. Key developments addressed include the expansion and partial lapse of Medicare telemedicine waivers, evolving U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration rules governing prescribing, increased reliance on interstate practice, and normalization of telemedicine by private payers.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
*Telemedicine/legislation & jurisprudence/economics/organization & administration
United States
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Health Policy
Licensure, Medical
Health Services Accessibility
Patient Safety
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/therapy
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/therapy
Betacoronavirus
Practice Patterns, Physicians'

@article {pmid42119693,
year = {2026},
author = {Schomerus, G and Nicolas, ML and Fritz, F and Schneider, D and Büchner, R},
title = {What is the Role of "the Psyche"? Long COVID and ME/CFS as Test Cases for Evidence-Based and Patient-Centered Psychiatry and Psychotherapy.},
journal = {Psychiatrische Praxis},
volume = {53},
number = {5},
pages = {263-269},
doi = {10.1055/a-2866-9127},
pmid = {42119693},
issn = {1439-0876},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/psychology/therapy ; *Psychotherapy ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Evidence-Based Medicine ; *Patient-Centered Care ; *COVID-19/psychology ; Psychiatry ; },
abstract = {The role of psychological factors in the development and course of Long Covid (LC) and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) remains a subject of controversial debate. We argue that psychologizing LC and ME/CFS carries significant risks: it leads to potentially harmful therapies, invalidates the patients' experience of illness, hinders effective interventions such as pacing, diverts focus from necessary physical diagnostics and treatment, disadvantages patients in medical assessments, and places a considerable additional burden on the families of affected children or other relatives. We show that many of the arguments presented for a psychological contribution are nonspecific or insufficiently supported by empirical evidence. Our essay therefore advocates for extreme caution in attributing psychological factors to these conditions, in the interest of a specific, evidence-based, and patient-centered psychiatry and psychotherapy.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/psychology/therapy
*Psychotherapy
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Evidence-Based Medicine
*Patient-Centered Care
*COVID-19/psychology
Psychiatry

@article {pmid42377340,
year = {2026},
author = {Rodríguez-Rodríguez, E and Rodríguez-Rodríguez, P and Jiménez-Ortega, AI and Aparicio, A},
title = {[Nutrition, microbiota and respiratory infections: key aspects of their interaction].},
journal = {Nutricion hospitalaria},
volume = {43},
number = {Spec No4},
pages = {54-57},
doi = {10.20960/nh.06966},
pmid = {42377340},
issn = {1699-5198},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/immunology/microbiology/prevention & control ; *Nutritional Status ; Probiotics ; *Diet ; COVID-19/immunology ; Prebiotics ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Microbiota ; },
abstract = {Introduction: respiratory infections (RI) have experienced a rebound following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, constituting a major public health problem. Diet and nutritional status are determining factors in the competence of the immune system, where the gut-lung axis has been identified as a key mechanism in regulating the immune response against these processes. Objectives: to analyze the scientific evidence on the role of diet and microbiota in the prevention and evolution of respiratory infections. Methods: narrative review of recent scientific literature on nutrients, dietary patterns, gut microbiota, and their relationship with respiratory immunity. Results: various nutrients such as fiber, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols, as well as the use of probiotics, modulate the gut microbiota and promote the production of metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), with immunomodulatory effects. These mechanisms contribute to improving the pulmonary immune response and reducing the incidence and severity of RI. Conclusions: a balanced and high-nutrient-density diet, rich in prebiotic and probiotic compounds, can contribute to strengthening the immune response and decreasing vulnerability to respiratory infections.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Tract Infections/immunology/microbiology/prevention & control
*Nutritional Status
Probiotics
*Diet
COVID-19/immunology
Prebiotics
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Microbiota

@article {pmid42471030,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, CS and Joe Thomas, M and Thomas, NP and Kotwani, VS},
title = {Domestic robots: recent trends and innovations.},
journal = {Disability and rehabilitation. Assistive technology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-27},
doi = {10.1080/17483107.2026.2702778},
pmid = {42471030},
issn = {1748-3115},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Domestic Service Robots (DSRs) are employed to perform personalised tasks in domestic/household environments. Recent times, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, have shown a rapid increase in demand for household companion bots. Despite the development of several such service robots, there are still potential challenges that need to be addressed. Domestic robots that perform basic household chores such as vacuum cleaning are the most popular and commercially a big hit. It is desirable to have an advanced multipurpose robot that can interact with humans and the surrounding environment in real time.

METHODS: A comparative analysis of existing DSRs and their corresponding gaps is highlighted in this article. Emphasis is given to the design/appearance, choice of sensors and actuators, cognition, effectiveness in manipulating domestic objects, control and task planning algorithms, safety measures and reliability of DSRs validated in real-world settings.

RESULTS: This article presents a systematic review of the latest developments in DSR and outlines the future direction of research to tackle the unsolved problems. Key highlights from 83 research articles published after 2020 in reputed journals/platforms are studied and analysed to understand the latest trends in DSR.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights current progress, identifies existing gaps, and outlines future research directions essential for deploying reliable domestic service robots in real world environments.},
}

@article {pmid42471883,
year = {2025},
author = {Inuwa, U and Bakari, MA and Kaitafi, MT and Kadas, S},
title = {Analysis of Caesarean Deliveries (CD) at a Tertiary Hospital in Northeastern Nigeria: A 5 Year Review.},
journal = {Nigerian medical journal : journal of the Nigeria Medical Association},
volume = {66},
number = {5},
pages = {1768-1776},
pmid = {42471883},
issn = {0300-1652},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: One of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in Obstetrics is caesarean delivery (CD), and certainly the oldest surgical operation. Caesarean delivery is life-saving, especially when there is a failure or contraindication to vaginal delivery. However, the health risk and the cost of the surgery may be quite challenging, especially in low-resource countries like Nigeria. The observed increased prevalence rate in recent times is alarming and has become a major public health concern, calling for regular appraisal of its indications in order to reduce the prevalence. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence, trend, indications, maternal and foetal outcomes at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Adamawa State. Nigeria.

METHODOLOGY: It was a hospital-based retrospective study of all the cases of CD undertaken between 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2022. Names and hospital numbers of patients were identified; the case folders were traced and retrieved. Necessary information was obtained and analyzed using SPSS version 17 software. Results were presented in percentages, simple graphs, and ratios.

RESULTS: During the years under review, there were 8568 deliveries, out of which 2707 had cesarean delivery, giving a cesarean delivery rate of 31.6%. The major maternal indication was prolonged obstructed labor, 627 (23.09%), while that of foetal indication was foetal distress, 418 (15.44%). The trend of caesarean delivery in this study showed a steady increase between 2018 and 2019 and 2021 to 2022, with a drop in 2020. This was due to the lockdown following the COVID-19 pandemic in that year. The maternal mortality ratio was 776/100,000 live births, and case fatality was 0.8%, while perinatal mortality was 41/1000 births.

CONCLUSION: The caesarean delivery rate in this study was very high when compared to most teaching hospitals in Nigeria. Effort should therefore be made to reverse the ugly trend. Therefore, a thorough and meticulous assessment of patients should be done before a decision is taken for surgery, especially elective caesarean deliveries.},
}

@article {pmid42472491,
year = {2026},
author = {Bijkerk, HJC and Antonis, AFG and Wagenaar, JA and Lam, TJGM and van Doorn, DCK},
title = {Anthelmintic stewardship: An essential step towards sustainable dairy farming.},
journal = {Veterinary parasitology},
volume = {347},
number = {},
pages = {110846},
doi = {10.1016/j.vetpar.2026.110846},
pmid = {42472491},
issn = {1873-2550},
abstract = {Helminth infections in grazing dairy cattle can lead to asymptomatic infections, subclinical- or clinical disease. Whether the course of infection leads to disease depends on various factors, leading to a broad variety of prevalence rates and severity of disease between farms, between groups of cattle in a farm and between individual animals. Production losses related to helminth infections, the difficulty in diagnosing helminth disease and the wide availability and high efficacy of anthelmintics have led to overreliance on these products. Combined with management and other factors, this results in the development of anthelmintic resistance and an environmental hazard of drug residues. To slow down the development of anthelmintic resistance and to reduce the consequences of anthelmintic use on the environment, anthelmintic stewardship (AHS) is urgently needed. We define AHS as a systematic approach to optimize the management of helminth infections with the goal to minimize their negative consequences through minimizing the usage of anthelmintics, reducing the development of anthelmintic resistance and reducing environmental contamination. Implementation of AHS requires an approach that considers the complexity of helminth infections weighing different interests, while transferring them to practical applications. An integrated approach implementing AHS on dairy farms is proposed, consisting of four steps: risk assessment, prevention, diagnostics, and treatment. For each of these steps, implementation possibilities and gaps are reviewed. Although there are knowledge and implementation gaps in each of the steps, enough tools are currently available to implement AHS based on the proposed four step approach on dairy farms.},
}

@article {pmid42472528,
year = {2026},
author = {Dai, T and Wu, W and Wang, B and Feng, G and Wang, J and Hu, T and Lin, Y and Sun, F and Wei, G and Xia, Y and Chen, T and Liu, B},
title = {Advances in lateral flow immunoassays: from technological innovations to diverse applications.},
journal = {Talanta},
volume = {312},
number = {Pt A},
pages = {130269},
doi = {10.1016/j.talanta.2026.130269},
pmid = {42472528},
issn = {1873-3573},
abstract = {Lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA), as a rapid, simple, and cost-effective point-of-care testing (POCT) method, has made remarkable progress over the past few decades, especially demonstrating its unique public health value during the global 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This review aims to systematically introduce the technical principles, core components, technological innovations of LFIA, applications in the field of analytical testing, and to explore the current challenges and future development directions. The review first introduces the basic principle and structural composition of LFIA. Then, it highlights the strategies related to performance improvement in LFIA, including structural engineering, nanomaterial innovations, buffer optimization, signal amplification, smartphone-based image analysis and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. Subsequently, the main applications of LFIAs in analytical testing are discussed in detail, including the detection of pathogens, protein markers, and small molecule substances. Finally, this review points out the current status and emerging challenges of LFIAs, and elaborates on their future development trends, aiming to promote further technological advancements and wider application of this technology in the field of POCT.},
}

@article {pmid42060833,
year = {2026},
author = {Johnson, VL and Hall, V and Berrington, R and Burdon, J and Schreder, S and McCarthy, M and Brough, C and Highton, PJ and Hadjiconstantinou, M and Game, FL and Keogh, LJ and Tesfaye, S and Valabhji, J and Petrie, JR and Dhatariya, KK and Yates, T and Davies, MJ and Khunti, K},
title = {Expert considerations to guide the development and delivery of an exercise intervention in people with type 2 diabetes-related foot ulcer disease.},
journal = {Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association},
volume = {43},
number = {8},
pages = {e70338},
pmid = {42060833},
issn = {1464-5491},
support = {//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/therapy ; *Diabetic Foot/therapy/physiopathology ; *Exercise Therapy/methods ; Exercise ; Patient Education as Topic ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Engaging in exercise presents unique challenges for those with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and diabetes-related foot ulcer disease (DFUD). This brief report describes the development of practical considerations aiming to support exercise in people with T2D and DFUD.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: An expert group of multidisciplinary healthcare professionals (HCPs), researchers and individuals with DFUD reviewed available evidence and developed practical considerations for the assessment, prescription and monitoring of exercise within an ongoing randomised controlled trial.

RESULTS: Key considerations include screening for contraindications, individualising exercise prescription, determining weight-bearing status and initial supervision by HCPs. Self monitoring of exercise and appropriate foot protection advice and care are also encouraged.

CONCLUSIONS: We have developed practical considerations to use when delivering an exercise intervention within a study aiming to improve cardiovascular health for people with T2D and DFUD. For this specific population, these recommendations include prescribing non-weight bearing physical activity (such as arm ergometry or chair-based upper limb exercises) for those with active foot ulcers, educating and encouraging footcare self-management (including how to check feet and when to seek advice), monitoring glucose levels in participants at high risk of hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia and reducing the barriers to exercise. Pragmatic measures aimed at maintaining safety include determining the level of pre-assessment and individualised monitoring based on clinical presentation and/or risk as well as equipment and staff resource. This approach may also be helpful when supporting exercise in a wider population.},
}

Humans
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications/therapy
*Diabetic Foot/therapy/physiopathology
*Exercise Therapy/methods
Exercise
Patient Education as Topic

@article {pmid42129716,
year = {2026},
author = {Farah, MM},
title = {The impact of telehealth services on healthcare access in rural areas.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42129716},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {*Telemedicine/organization & administration ; Humans ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Rural Health Services/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Rural Population ; Pandemics ; Digital Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This review aims to elucidate the role, advantages, and limitations of telehealth in enhancing healthcare access in rural regions globally.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and specific national databases (including those from Turkey, Australia, and India) for studies published between 2000 and 2024. A PRISMA-style flow approach was used to document the study selection process. Relevant articles, reviews, and reports were analyzed using thematic synthesis.

FINDINGS: The review identified a range of telehealth services that effectively mitigate geographical and socioeconomic barriers by facilitating specialist consultations, enabling chronic disease management, and offering cost-effective solutions. Evidence from multiple studies indicates a reduction in emergency department visits and hospitalization rates. For instance, (Eze, P., Health Serv Insights 15, 2020) demonstrated that telehealth implementation can significantly reduce missed appointments, generating substantial cost savings for clinics. Nevertheless, the review found that significant challenges remain across the literature, including inadequate digital infrastructure, low technological literacy, data security concerns, and regulatory gaps (Butzner, M., & Cuffee, Y J Med Int Res 23:(8) e29575, 2020). The COVID-19 pandemic has markedly accelerated the adoption of telehealth practices worldwide (Bashshur, Telemedicine and e-Health 26(5):571-573, 2020).

CONCLUSION: Telehealth serves as a transformative tool for improving accessibility and equity in rural healthcare. Sustainable implementation requires prioritized investments in infrastructure, digital literacy programs, comprehensive legal frameworks, and robust cybersecurity measures. Hybrid models that integrate traditional services with telehealth, along with culturally adapted and patient-centered solutions, are crucial for developing inclusive and resilient future health systems.},
}

*Telemedicine/organization & administration
Humans
*Health Services Accessibility
*Rural Health Services/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Rural Population
Pandemics
Digital Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42469771,
year = {2026},
author = {Kassie, AM and Endalamaw, A and Khatri, RB and Assefa, Y},
title = {Barriers and facilitators to diabetes service uptake and self-care management in Australia: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12913-026-15150-5},
pmid = {42469771},
issn = {1472-6963},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Diabetes represents a major and increasing public health burden in Australia. Despite this, there remains limited consolidated evidence on patterns of diabetes-related service uptake and self-management, particularly among priority population groups. This scoping review synthesizes existing evidence on diabetes-related health service utilization and self-management practices in Australia, focusing on key barriers and facilitators that affect access to care and engagement in self-management.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review of journal articles published up to 20 October 2025. Major databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science, were utilized along with manual reference searches. Articles were screened in two stages, and data were extracted using a piloted template. A descriptive thematic analysis was performed focusing on the three major themes: service uptake, self-care management, and the associated barriers and facilitators. Diabetes service uptake was categorized into three subthemes: practitioner-based primary care, allied health and preventive services, and acute and emergency care. Moreover, the barriers and facilitators were organized using the socioecological framework.

RESULTS: Thirty-two articles were included in this review. The general population showed consistent engagement with practitioner-based routine diabetic services, with studies reporting up to 92% of adults visiting their general practitioners and having at least one HbA1c test over a six-month period. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people also showed an improvement in primary care engagement despite a historical high dependency in acute care. In contrast, areas containing a higher proportion of overseas-born residents tended to rely more on acute services. The uptake of preventive services and allied health care was inconsistent and generally low. For example, up to 40% of adults had no contact with diabetes educators, dietitians, or podiatrists in some rural populations. One study has also reported that only 55.2% of high-risk adults were screened at least once for diabetes over a three-year period. Key barriers to service uptake and/or self-care management included limited health literacy, fragmented care pathways, financial constraints, cultural and language barriers, geographic remoteness, and variable digital capability. In contrast, coordinated multidisciplinary care, structured management plan, strong patient-provider relationship, social support, and access to digital health services were reported as important facilitators. Telehealth has also emerged as an effective facilitator for maintaining engagement, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSION: Despite high engagement with routine primary care, significant gaps remain in preventive services and allied health use among people with diabetes in Australia, particularly among younger adults, rural residents, and socioeconomically disadvantaged or culturally diverse populations. Addressing these gaps requires equitable, person-centered, and integrated multidisciplinary care that aligns with patients' cultural values and everyday lives, alongside efforts in improving health literacy.},
}

@article {pmid42469840,
year = {2026},
author = {Riley, A and Doughty, H and Hill, JE and Giebel, C and Harris, M and Williams, NH},
title = {Barriers to and facilitators of the implementation of Community Health Worker programmes in high-income countries: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12913-026-15114-9},
pmid = {42469840},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {NIHR200182/ARCNWC161//National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care North West Coast/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Global interest in Community Health Workers (CHWs) is rising as health systems seek to address persistent health inequities and the social determinants of health. However, in high-income countries (HICs), CHW implementation remains fragmented. This systematic review synthesises evidence on the factors that act as barriers and facilitators to the implementation and integration of CHW programmes across HIC primary healthcare settings.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, Scopus, PsycINFO, and CINAHL for studies published between January 2001 and August 2025. Inclusion focused on qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods papers regarding CHW implementation in HICs. Methodological quality was appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Data were synthesised using a 'Best Fit' Framework Synthesis and confidence in the findings was assessed via GRADE-CERQual.

RESULTS: Seventy-two papers were included (US n = 64; UK n = 4; Australia n = 3; Belgium n = 1), primarily comprising qualitative and mixed methods designs. Key facilitators included leadership buy-in, the presence of implementation champions, and established community partnerships that enabled resource sharing. Prominent barriers included precarious, short-term funding models that prioritised quantitative outputs over relational labour; hierarchical medical power dynamics; and disconnected IT systems that necessitated redundant data entry. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst, elevating the CHW role within public health infrastructure while simultaneously exposing digital divides and structural fragility. GRADE-CERQual ratings indicated high confidence in findings regarding funding sustainability, training, and integration.

CONCLUSIONS: The evidence synthesised in this review reveals a fundamental misalignment within current health services: while CHWs are valued for their unique relational capacity, they remain systemically undermined by transactional health system designs. Achieving sustainability requires a strategic shift toward long-term, flexible funding models and the workforce development of supportive infrastructure, including reflective supervision and standardised training. Integration must move beyond short-term, project-based initiatives toward a resilient and permanent public health workforce capable of addressing structural health inequities.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO: CRD42022310789.},
}

@article {pmid42470742,
year = {2026},
author = {N, B and Radhakrishnan, SSR and V, RS and J, PK and Srinivasan, S and Lamech, T and S, RK and Mani, R and Sharma, M and Vasudeva, K and Mahadevan, A and Hb, V},
title = {Emerging importance of bio-bank for precision diagnostics and research in neuroinfections - a narrative review.},
journal = {Diagnostic microbiology and infectious disease},
volume = {116},
number = {3},
pages = {117546},
doi = {10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2026.117546},
pmid = {42470742},
issn = {1879-0070},
abstract = {The diagnosis of neuroinfectious diseases, including Tuberculous Meningitis (TBM), viral encephalitis, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and post COVID-19 neurological syndromes, remains challenging due to limited surveillance, non-specific symptoms, inadequate laboratory sensitivity, and restricted availability of high-quality CSF or tissue specimens. The critical need for early and precise diagnosis and the development of reliable, validated biomarkers highlight the importance of biospecimen-driven approaches that leverage CSF and other biobanked materials, as evidenced by the emerging literature. This review aims to summarize the need for biobanks, discuss sample preservation and tracking, examine quality control frameworks, and evaluate current advances, translational applications, and ongoing challenges of biobanking in neuroinfectious disease research. We extracted evidence from existing neuroinfection biobanks, reviewed global standards governing bio-specimen preservation and storage, and analyzed studies demonstrating how archived CSF, blood, and brain tissue have enabled pathogen characterization, biomarker discovery, and translational research. Our analysis shows that biobanked specimens have facilitated high-resolution pathogen genotyping, immune profiling, and identification of diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, such as neuro-filament light chain (NfL) and CSF proteomic signatures. Strengthening biobanking infrastructure, harmonized governance, established FAIR-aligned data systems, and the integration of AI and digital analytics will help accelerate biomarker validation, drive diagnostic innovation, and ultimately improve clinical outcomes for patients worldwide.},
}

@article {pmid42467983,
year = {2026},
author = {Tholo, N and Markey, G and Harrigan, R and Pandey, P and Prasad, B and Barai, RS and Gibson, DS and Shukla, P},
title = {The critical role of artificial intelligence and bioinformatics in accelerating peptide-based vaccine discovery for tackling global infectious diseases.},
journal = {Briefings in bioinformatics},
volume = {27},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/bib/bbag260},
pmid = {42467983},
issn = {1477-4054},
support = {//Department for the Economy/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Computational Biology/methods ; Protein Subunit Vaccines ; Immunoinformatics ; *Vaccines, Subunit/immunology ; *Vaccine Development ; Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte/immunology ; Machine Learning ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Communicable Diseases/immunology ; Epitopes, B-Lymphocyte/immunology ; },
abstract = {Peptide-based vaccines, enabled by bioinformatics and machine learning (ML), have emerged as one of the most promising approaches for rapid, safe, and cost-effective vaccine design against infectious diseases. Unlike conventional approaches that depend heavily on whole-pathogen cultures or recombinant protein expression, peptide vaccines can be designed in silico and synthesized quickly. Rational and targeted in silico approaches for the discovery of peptide-based vaccine candidates include B-cell and T-cell epitope prediction, immunogenicity, antigenicity, allergenicity, autoimmunity, population coverage, sequence conservation, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, in silico cloning, and immunological simulation analyses. The combination of these comprehensive computational methods can effectively generate high-quality vaccine candidates for subsequent validation via in vitro and in vivo experiments. This review contextualizes the historical trajectory of peptide-based vaccinology, from early linear epitope discoveries in the 1960s to multi-epitope constructs and clinically tested candidates such as UB-612 and PepGNP-Covid19. It examines critical challenges in immunoinformatics, including performance gaps in epitope prediction tools, complexities in human leucocyte antigen (HLA) mapping, and the need for extensive manual intervention in pipelines. Artificial intelligence-driven approaches, spanning deep learning, and interpretable ML, are positioned to transform epitope prediction, reduce human error, and standardize reproducibility. These advances have the potential to support global outbreak response targets such as the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) 100 Days Mission and the World Health Organization (WHO) Research and Development (R&D) Blueprint. However, their performance remains constrained by data quality, dataset imbalance, limited benchmark standardization, and persistent underrepresentation of many HLA alleles and population groups. Key Points Peptide-based vaccines, accelerated by bioinformatics and machine learning, offer a potentially rapid, relatively safe, and cost-effective alternative to traditional vaccine design, enabling in silico development and swift synthetic manufacturing. Computational methods such as B-cell and T-cell epitope prediction, immunogenicity analysis, and molecular simulations allow for rational and targeted vaccine candidate discovery, enhancing quality and efficiency. The field has evolved from early linear epitope discoveries in the 1960s to sophisticated multi-epitope constructs and clinically tested candidates like UB-612 and PepGNP-Covid19. Major challenges in immunoinformatics include performance limitations in epitope prediction tools, complexities in HLA mapping, and the necessity for manual intervention in data pipelines. Artificial intelligence-driven models, including deep learning and interpretable machine learning, promise to overcome these challenges by improving prediction accuracy, reducing errors, and supporting global epidemic response efforts such as CEPI's 100 Days Mission and the WHO R&D Blueprint.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Computational Biology/methods
Protein Subunit Vaccines
Immunoinformatics
*Vaccines, Subunit/immunology
*Vaccine Development
Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte/immunology
Machine Learning
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Communicable Diseases/immunology
Epitopes, B-Lymphocyte/immunology

@article {pmid42468359,
year = {2026},
author = {Kelly, JB and Brodie, G and Zeden, MS},
title = {Antisense oligonucleotides: design, implementation and future perspectives in microbiology.},
journal = {Current opinion in microbiology},
volume = {93},
number = {},
pages = {102794},
doi = {10.1016/j.mib.2026.102794},
pmid = {42468359},
issn = {1879-0364},
abstract = {Advances in molecular biology have expanded antimicrobial strategies that traditionally targeted proteins or metabolic pathways to now include RNA, enabling a previously unattainable precision through control of gene expression. The clinical potential of RNA-therapeutics was demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when mRNA vaccines marked a transformative milestone for RNA-based interventions for viral infections. Increasingly, similar principles are emerging for the treatment of bacterial infections. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) bind complementary mRNA sequences to induce RNase H-mediated degradation or block their translation. Initially developed for genetic and neurodegenerative disorders, ASOs are now emerging as next-generation antibacterials, termed ASOBiotics, designed to silence essential bacterial genes. In this review, we explore the advances of ASO technologies with applications in bacterial pathogens, outlining design considerations while discussing the challenges and opportunities for making precision antibacterial therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid40685732,
year = {2026},
author = {Tabassum, H and Ankita, and Deo, V},
title = {Review of Nanomedicine Research Proposals Received at ICMR: Gaps in Research and Further Opportunities.},
journal = {Combinatorial chemistry & high throughput screening},
volume = {29},
number = {5},
pages = {808-817},
pmid = {40685732},
issn = {1875-5402},
mesh = {*Nanomedicine/economics ; Humans ; India ; *Biomedical Research ; COVID-19 ; Translational Research, Biomedical ; Neoplasms/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Nanomedicine integrates nanotechnology with healthcare, offering targeted diagnostics, therapeutic solutions, and preventive applications. India, through agencies such as the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and the Department of Science & Technology (DST), has prioritized nanomedicine to address public health challenges. Despite significant progress, gaps persist in clinical translation and interdisciplinary applications.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the scope, gaps, and opportunities in nanomedicine research in India, focusing on ICMR-funded projects.

METHODS: Data on nanomedicine proposals submitted to ICMR (2018-2022) were reviewed using keyword-based searches from databases and survey responses from principal investigators. Metrics included funding trends, research objectives, and outcomes. Quantitative and qualitative analyses assessed scientific progress and translational potential.

RESULTS: Over the past five years, the ICMR has funded over 250 projects, with a focus on cancer therapy, infectious diseases, and diagnostics. Achievements include nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and diagnostics, with notable innovations like Albupax® and gold nanoparticlebased sensors. Research activity increased over the years, with a slight slowdown during the COVID-19 period. Funding was primarily allocated to states with established research infrastructures, underscoring the need for more equitable support nationwide.

DISCUSSION: Nanomedicine research in India has made significant progress, primarily in cancer; however, limited research has been observed in non-cancer applications and long-term safety studies. Differences in funding across various regions and difficulties in turning ideas into marketable products were major problems. Integrating nanomedicine with genetic tools offers promise for more targeted treatments.

CONCLUSION: The ICMR's support has advanced nanomedicine research in India, particularly in the field of oncology. To strengthen India's position in the field, future efforts must address unmet needs, including non-cancer applications, clinical translation, and regulatory harmonization. Collaborative initiatives and equitable funding distribution can accelerate advancements and strengthen the implementation of nanomedicine research.},
}

*Nanomedicine/economics
Humans
India
*Biomedical Research
COVID-19
Translational Research, Biomedical
Neoplasms/diagnosis

@article {pmid42138851,
year = {2026},
author = {Silva, AS and Dornelas, R and Silva, JRLE},
title = {COVID-19-related voice disorders: a scoping review.},
journal = {CoDAS},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {e20250243},
pmid = {42138851},
issn = {2317-1782},
mesh = {Humans ; *Voice Disorders/virology/etiology ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Adult ; Voice Quality ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To map the available evidence on voice changes in non-intubated adults diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19.

RESEARCH STRATEGIES: Scoping review conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, including studies published between 2019 and 2025. Systematic searches were performed in the MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases and in grey literature sources (Google Scholar, MedRxiv, and ProQuest). Controlled descriptors and free terms related to COVID-19 and voice disorders were combined using Boolean operators.

SELECTION CRITERIA: The review included studies with adults (18-65 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of mild to moderate COVID-19 and excluded studies with individuals undergoing endotracheal intubation and with a previous history of voice disorders or respiratory comorbidities. The selection was performed by two independent reviewers.

DATA ANALYSIS: The data were extracted and analyzed descriptively and quantitatively, considering study characteristics, vocal assessment methods, and main outcomes.

RESULTS: Of the 35,497 records identified, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most frequent voice disorders were dysphonia, hoarseness, reduction in maximum phonation time, and changes in acoustic measures such as jitter, shimmer, and harmonic-to-noise ratio. Associated symptoms included vocal fatigue, cough, dyspnea, and laryngeal discomfort, as well as a negative impact on voice-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION: Mild to moderate COVID-19 can lead to clinically relevant vocal impairments, reinforcing the need for speech-language-hearing follow-up and research to support vocal assessment and rehabilitation protocols in the post-infection period.},
}

Humans
*Voice Disorders/virology/etiology
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Adult
Voice Quality

@article {pmid42149126,
year = {2026},
author = {Akinbolade, S and Potter, R and Inskip, A and Nesworthy, J and Brock, K and Norman, G},
title = {Repurposed Medicines for Viruses With Epidemic or Pandemic Potential: A Horizon Scan.},
journal = {Pharmacology research & perspectives},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {e70271},
pmid = {42149126},
issn = {2052-1707},
support = {HSRIC-2016-10 009//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Repositioning/methods ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Animals ; COVID-19 ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Viruses such as Ebola, Marburg, influenza, mpox, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 may be considered pathogens of epidemic or pandemic concern. Developing novel antiviral medicines can be time-consuming and resource intensive. Repurposing existing medicines with known or potential antiviral activity offers a faster, cost-effective strategy to expand treatment options during public health emergencies. This scan aimed to map current investigational activity involving repurposed medicines for these viruses. A horizon scanning approach was employed, starting with a targeted search in Embase followed by a systematic search of ClinicalTrials.gov to identify developmental stages of relevant technologies. Eligible technologies included UK- or EU-licensed medicines being investigated for antiviral use, while vaccines, unlicensed medicines, and treatments already approved for the target viruses were excluded. From the literature, 196 repurposed technologies were identified, and the expanded search on the clinical trials registry revealed 58 technologies in active clinical development. Interventional trial activity was limited to influenza and SARS-CoV-2, with 29 technologies for SARS-CoV-2 and two influenza technologies advancing to phase III evaluation. For other viruses, candidate repurposed technologies were identified only at preclinical or exploratory stages. Frequently investigated pharmacological classes included direct-acting antivirals, immunomodulators, and anti-inflammatory agents. While repurposing represents a potentially rapid strategy for therapeutic deployment, inclusion in this horizon scan does not imply clinical efficacy. Rigorous preclinical validation, pharmacokinetic feasibility assessment, and mechanistic confirmation remain essential before clinical translation.},
}

Humans
*Drug Repositioning/methods
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Animals
COVID-19
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid42149692,
year = {2026},
author = {Amahong, K and Liu, Y and Zhang, Z and Tao, L and Sarshad, AA and Zhu, F},
title = {An integrative meta-analysis of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-protein interactomes identifies conserved host factors shared with other RNA viruses.},
journal = {Briefings in functional genomics},
volume = {25},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42149692},
issn = {2041-2657},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/genetics ; *RNA, Viral/metabolism/genetics ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; *RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism ; *RNA Viruses/metabolism/genetics ; Influenza A virus/metabolism/genetics ; Dengue Virus/metabolism/genetics ; COVID-19/virology/metabolism ; Zika Virus/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses cause substantial global disease burden and depend on host RNA-binding proteins and translation machinery. However, it remains unclear which host factors are robustly engaged across independent Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA interactome studies and to what extent these factors are shared with other RNA viruses. Here, we perform an integrative meta-analysis of eight published SARS-CoV-2 RNA-protein interactomes and compare them with corresponding Influenza A virus, Zika virus, and Dengue virus datasets to define conserved host networks and prioritize candidate host-directed antiviral targets. By integrating multiple datasets and applying ClusterProfiler together with curated pathway resources (KEGG, Reactome, WikiPathways, and Gene Ontology), we systematically characterize the functional landscape of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-protein interactions. The consensus SARS-CoV-2 interactome is enriched for mRNA processing, translation, RNA surveillance and innate immune functions. Cross-viral comparison identifies 275 host proteins shared across all four RNA viruses, forming interconnected modules that include key translation factors (EEF1A1, EIF4A1, EIF3H) and RNA-binding proteins (Nucleolin, ILF3). Drug-target annotation prioritizes 21 proteins with 35 approved or investigational modulators for host-directed antiviral repurposing. Together, these findings generate a consensus map of conserved host dependencies and highlight prioritized targets for future mechanistic and translational studies. Research Highlights Integrated SARS-CoV-2 datasets and compared with, Influenza A virus, Zika virus, Dengue virus. Identified 275 host proteins shared across these four pathogens. Conserved proteins were enriched in translation, RNA processing, and innate immune pathways. Prioritized 21 host targets and 35 drugs for antiviral repurposing.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/genetics
*RNA, Viral/metabolism/genetics
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
*RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
*RNA Viruses/metabolism/genetics
Influenza A virus/metabolism/genetics
Dengue Virus/metabolism/genetics
COVID-19/virology/metabolism
Zika Virus/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid42171504,
year = {2026},
author = {Brüssow, H},
title = {Extending the Targets for Coronavirus Antivirals Beyond That of Approved Drugs: Insights From Preclinical Research.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {19},
number = {5},
pages = {e70376},
pmid = {42171504},
issn = {1751-7915},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Animals ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology ; COVID-19 ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/virology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Antiviral drugs have been approved for the treatment of COVID-19. However, they present pharmacological limitations, a mixed efficacy profile and target just two coronavirus proteins. To extend the range of druggable coronavirus proteins, researchers explored small molecule N-glycan binders as inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein interaction with the cell receptor. Other groups investigated lipopeptides as inhibitors of cell fusion by viral spikes. High throughput screening of chemical libraries yielded viral maturation inhibitors that targeted the viral M protein. Massive screening led to inhibitors of the non-structural coronavirus protein NSP14, a methyltransferase involved in viral mRNA cap synthesis. Machine learning-driven scans of chemical space revealed inhibitors of non-structural coronavirus protein NSP3, a papain-like protease subverting innate immune response to viral infection. A chimera of a nucleotide analogue coupled to an RNase L attractor bound the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase NSP12 and mediated degradation of the viral RNA. Several of these compounds showed comparable or even superior antiviral efficacy as approved COVID-19 drugs in preclinical animal tests. Parallel efforts were made to develop chemical compounds targeting host proteins needed for viral multiplication. Peptidomimetic tetrapeptides acted as inhibitors of the host protease TMPRSS2 involved in cell fusion by the viral spike protein. A repurposed TMPRSS2 inhibitor was tested in COVID-19 patients without demonstrating efficacy. A genetic screen demonstrated an enzyme involved in sphingomyelin synthesis and its inhibitor which impaired SARS-CoV-2 replication. A viral-cell protein interactome study showed 332 cellular proteins interacting with 26 coronaviral proteins. A chemoinformatic search found inhibitors for the interaction of NSP9 with host elongation factor eIF4A and for NSP13 with elongation factor eEF1A. Plitidepsin, a clinically used eEF1A inhibitor, was tested in human clinical trials with COVID-19 patients demonstrating in vivo antiviral activity and a trend for clinical amelioration in an underpowered phase 3 clinical trial.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Betacoronavirus/drug effects
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Animals
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology
COVID-19
Viral Nonstructural Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/virology
Pandemics

@article {pmid42191274,
year = {2026},
author = {Parikesit, AA and Ansori, ANM and Kharisma, VD and Purnobasuki, H and Nugraha, Y},
title = {Advances in bioinformatics: Integration of biomolecular simulations and virtual reality for revolutionizing disease mechanism elucidation and therapeutic development.},
journal = {International review of cell and molecular biology},
volume = {402},
number = {},
pages = {211-236},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ircmb.2025.11.004},
pmid = {42191274},
issn = {1937-6448},
mesh = {Humans ; *Molecular Dynamics Simulation ; *Virtual Reality ; *Computational Biology/methods ; COVID-19/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Virtual reality and biomolecular simulations currently lie at the leading edge in dissecting the molecular pathways underlying the disease. This chapter will discuss how the integrations of various technologies will extend knowledge about complex biological processes and their contribution to disease pathophysiology. Advances in molecular dynamics (MD) simulations currently make it possible to record the behavior of proteins and other biomolecules with accurate temporal resolution and full atom detail. Such simulations include information on critical structural changes related to diseases, interactions with possible medication, and functionality of proteins. With recently improved speed, accuracy, and accessibility, MD. has become a basic research and drug development tool. From the researcher's point of view, virtual reality has revolutionized how one can conceptualize and interact with molecular structures. Virtual reality (VR) is a method that uses the three-dimensional presentation of biomolecules as manipulable virtual objects for intuitive insight into molecular interactions and structural connections. In this way, virtual technology can be very helpful in investigating complex chemical systems and creating new theories. It facilitates the Cloud-based co-creation of environments in cloud systems for molecular modeling. The same technologies allow real-time research collaboration by sharing and changing virtual molecules. These cooperative situations reward the generation of new ideas and information, which might provide novel discoveries that more direct approaches could not realize. This chapter will discuss the range of computational methods applied to elucidate molecular recognition mechanisms and will cover improved sampling methods and in silico screening. It will also describe how such techniques may be applied to investigate viral proteins and help develop vaccines and drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The combination of the predictive power of MD. Simulations with intuitive visualization capabilities from VR would allow researchers to achieve an unprecedented understanding of the molecular origin of many diseases. This should inspire innovation in therapeutic intervention and accelerate discovery in molecular biology.},
}

Humans
*Molecular Dynamics Simulation
*Virtual Reality
*Computational Biology/methods
COVID-19/virology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42453219,
year = {2026},
author = {Neogi, SB and Saroha, E and Mishra, SS and Tolani, H and Samtani, R},
title = {Telemedicine: An exploration of global impact and Indian perspectives on healthcare delivery, effectiveness, and challenges.},
journal = {Journal of family medicine and primary care},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {1473-1478},
pmid = {42453219},
issn = {2249-4863},
abstract = {Telemedicine represents a transformative approach to healthcare delivery, leveraging information and communication technologies to bridge geographical barriers between patients and healthcare providers. This paper explores telemedicine's historical development, global applications, and specific relevance in India, particularly focusing on the eSanjeevani program. Despite its potential, telemedicine faces challenges, such as the digital divide, regulatory frameworks, patient acceptance, and technical limitations. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts among stakeholders to ensure equitable access, data security, and interoperability of telemedicine platforms. Telemedicine has demonstrated its efficacy in enhancing access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved regions, and has emerged as a vital tool during the COVID-19 pandemic. The eSanjeevani program in India serves as a prominent example of successful telemedicine implementation, facilitating millions of consultations and bridging the urban-rural healthcare divide. Looking ahead, telemedicine holds promise in revolutionizing healthcare delivery, fostering ecological responsibility, and advancing toward universal health coverage. Embracing telemedicine represents a significant step toward a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future for healthcare systems worldwide.},
}

@article {pmid42453257,
year = {2026},
author = {Rajeh, DA and Amer, KA and Alasmari, R and Brema, I and Aljumah, M and Aljuaid, S},
title = {Diabetic ketoacidosis after COVID-19 infection in newly diagnosed patients with diabetes in the Middle East and African countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of family medicine and primary care},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {1527-1539},
pmid = {42453257},
issn = {2249-4863},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is increased following the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, "COVID-19," however, little evidence is available regarding the prevalence and outcomes of DKA in newly diagnosed patients with diabetes in the Middle East and African countries. Our objective was to conduct a systematic review of case reports detailing the prevalence and outcomes of DKA in COVID-19 infected in the above referenced countries.

METHODS AND SUBJECTS: Our search encompassed Medline (via PubMed), Embase (via OVID), Web of Science, Scopus, grey literature sources such as Open Access Theses and Dissertations (OATD), and the reference lists of the included studies.

RESULTS: The results of the current meta-analysis study showed that 17 studies met the search criteria and a total of 22 patients (15 patients with newly type 1 diabetes and seven patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes). About 69.5% of the patients were of Arabian ethnicity. Body mass index (BMI) was reported only for seven patients, with a mean of 25.04 k g/m[2]. Two patients died in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, giving a mortality rate of 14.3%, while all patients were in type 1 diabetes, who had DKA survived.

CONCLUSIONS: Covid 19 infection in patients with new diabetes from the Middle East and African countries was associated with increased risk of DKA with high mortality in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.},
}

@article {pmid42453521,
year = {2026},
author = {Hsu, PC and Tsai, CC and Chu, TY and Kuo, CY},
title = {Jing-Si Herbal Tea as a multitargeted complementary therapy: Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies.},
journal = {Tzu chi medical journal},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {289-299},
pmid = {42453521},
issn = {2223-8956},
abstract = {Jing-Si Herbal Tea (JSHT) is a traditional multi-herbal preparation composed of flavonoids, polyphenols, triterpenoid saponins, glycyrrhizin, and other bioactive constituents that collectively contribute to a wide spectrum of biological activities. Emerging laboratory and clinical studies indicate that JSHT is associated with modulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and immune-related pathways, with reported antiviral and cytoprotective effects primarily observed in experimental models and exploratory clinical settings. This review synthesizes current evidence describing the diverse pharmacological actions of JSHT and its potential applications across oncologic, inflammatory, metabolic, and infectious disease contexts. Experimental findings suggest that JSHT may be associated with modulation of tumor progression-related processes, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition and aberrant nuclear factor kappa B activity, while being associated with intracellular oxidative stress-related activation of apoptosis- and ferroptosis-related pathways in cancer cell models. Its immunoregulatory capacity is reflected in the attenuation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the promotion of anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotypes. In respiratory and infectious diseases such as coronavirus disease 2019 and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, JSHT has been reported to attenuate hyperinflammatory responses and preserve cellular or organ function and has been associated with clinical improvement in selected observational studies, which should be interpreted cautiously. Early clinical data, including results from a randomized study in functional dyspepsia, suggest benefits for gastrointestinal symptoms and anxiety, accompanied by increases in serum butyrate that may indicate involvement of the gut-brain axis. Across available studies, JSHT has shown good tolerability with few reported adverse effects. Overall, the accumulating evidence suggests that JSHT may have potential relevance as a multitarget complementary approach, pending confirmation through well-controlled clinical studies. Nonetheless, more extensive, well-controlled clinical investigations are warranted to validate its efficacy and clarify its mechanistic pathways.},
}

@article {pmid42454043,
year = {2026},
author = {Wendt, K and Schieck, M and Gille, C and Marschollek, M and Illig, T and Wolff, D and Nee, S},
title = {Biomarkers of post-acute infection syndrome: a systematic literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1741761},
pmid = {42454043},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biomarkers/metabolism ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-acute infection syndrome (PAIS) remained underrecognized before the COVID-19 pandemic, which further increased exposure by introducing a novel global cause. The global burden of post-acute COVID syndrome (PACS) and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) alone is estimated at several tens of millions affected worldwide. Biomarker discovery is central to improving PAIS diagnosis and may provide therapeutic targets. This review summarizes current knowledge on biomarkers for PAIS, including PACS and ME/CFS.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria were: (1) studies including PAIS patients; (2) reporting laboratory or omics biomarkers; and (3) investigating biomarkers or pathomechanisms of PAIS. Although Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is not PAIS, we have included it as a separate mechanistic comparator due to its prevalence in search results and its clinical and immunological similarities to PAIS.

RESULTS: A total of 142 studies analyzing PAIS biomarkers were included. GBS was analyzed separately and later compared with the other results. Overall, the reviewed studies employed heterogeneous approaches. While similar types of data were frequently investigated, analytical methods varied and often focused only on a subset of molecules. The results indicate that amino acid, energy, and lipid metabolism, microbiome, mitochondrial stress, and miRNA networks are affected. All pathways are connected via NF-κB.

DISCUSSION: PAIS is a multisystem disorder rooted in persistent immune activation, metabolic reprogramming, and systemic inflammation, driven not by active viral infection, but by dysregulated host responses. The NF-κB pathway serves as a unifying hub, connecting molecular, cellular, and clinical phenotypes. Our framework enables a shift from symptom-based to mechanism-based classification, paving the way for biologically grounded interventions.

CONCLUSION: This review synthesizes a broad spectrum of biomarkers in PAIS, integrating findings across pathogens and molecular levels rather than restricting to individual conditions or symptom clusters. This study highlights the differences and commonalities among pathogens and diseases that lead to post-acute sequelae, fills a critical knowledge gap, and provides a foundation for future research and clinical practice. Future studies incorporating multi-omics approaches, longitudinal designs, and larger patient cohorts are needed to validate specific biomarkers and advance the understanding of PAIS.},
}

Humans
*Biomarkers/metabolism
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/complications
*SARS-CoV-2
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis

@article {pmid42454050,
year = {2026},
author = {Sanz-Muñoz, I and Farre-Avella, M and Barroso-Santos, PJ and Eiros, JM},
title = {State-of-the-art of the high dose influenza vaccine in Spain.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1843611},
pmid = {42454050},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; Spain/epidemiology ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology ; Vaccination ; Aged ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Middle Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {High-dose (HD) influenza vaccines have demonstrated robust effectiveness in preventing severe influenza-related outcomes, including pneumonia, cardiorespiratory complications, and mortality, with evidence from randomized clinical trials, meta-analyses, and real-world studies consistently showing superiority over standard-dose (SD) vaccines and supporting international recommendations for adults aged ≥60 years. This is increasingly relevant in the context of global aging and immunosenescence, which weakens vaccine-induced immune responses and heightens biological frailty, functional decline, and the risk of severe complications in older adults, especially those with comorbidities. The objective of this work is to describe the introduction, uptake, and current use of HD influenza vaccines in Spain and to summarize the evidence supporting their broader adoption in adults ≥60 years of age. Methods include a narrative synthesis of clinical evidence and an analysis of vaccination strategies implemented across Spanish autonomous communities since the introduction of HD vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Available evidence supports extending HD vaccine use as a population-based strategy to enhance protection and promote equitable access. The results show that the incorporation of HD influenza vaccines marked a significant shift in national vaccination strategies, with heterogeneous uptake across regions: while some prioritized institutionalized or dependent populations, others implemented mixed approaches that also included community-dwelling adults aged ≥60 years. In conclusion, a clear trend toward wider adoption is emerging, with an increasing number of autonomous communities incorporating HD vaccines into their programs and progressively lowering the recommended age threshold, in alignment with international guidance and the biological rationale for strengthened protection in older adults.},
}

Humans
*Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
Spain/epidemiology
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology
Vaccination
Aged
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Middle Aged
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42456241,
year = {2026},
author = {Dietrich, N and Stubbert, B},
title = {Artificial intelligence for chest imaging in hantavirus pulmonary syndrome: A review of practical considerations for rare-disease imaging.},
journal = {Clinical imaging},
volume = {138},
number = {},
pages = {110895},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinimag.2026.110895},
pmid = {42456241},
issn = {1873-4499},
abstract = {Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is an uncommon zoonotic respiratory illness with a high case fatality rate. Recent travel-associated Andes orthohantavirus clusters have renewed interest in early radiographic recognition of the disease outside its usual geographic range. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools developed during the COVID-19 pandemic now inform several radiology workflows, but the application of AI to HPS chest imaging remains largely unexplored. This narrative review summarises the imaging features of HPS across modalities, considers lessons from AI applications in COVID-19 and viral pneumonia imaging, and discusses practical development considerations for HPS-aware imaging AI, including dataset development, label standardisation, realistic comparator inclusion, candidate modelling approaches, external validation, and clinical workflow integration. The review also considers challenges to HPS-aware imaging AI, including data scarcity, low pretest probability in non-endemic settings, overlapping imaging findings, and translational pitfalls from recent AI literature. As HPS is unlikely to support conventional disease-specific model development without coordinated data collection, future work will likely require multi-institutional datasets, prevalence-aware evaluation, and multimodal workflow integration that combines imaging with clinical, laboratory, and epidemiologic context.},
}

@article {pmid42459265,
year = {2026},
author = {Vera, E and Galanis, P and Mangoulia, P and Pesiridis, T},
title = {Factors affecting nurses' professional quality of life in Europe - A systematic review.},
journal = {AIMS public health},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {485-512},
pmid = {42459265},
issn = {2327-8994},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nursing care involves both cognitive and emotional aspects, significantly impacting nurses' professional quality of life (ProQOL). This systematic review investigated the factors affecting nurses' professional quality of life in Europe.

METHODS: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting framework and was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD420251133948). Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, and EBSCOhost from inception to August 2025. Eligible peer-reviewed quantitative studies from European Union countries utilized the ProQOL instrument, reporting on all three dimensions: compassion satisfaction, burnout, and secondary traumatic stress. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and appraised methodological quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool.

RESULTS: A total of 3407 records were initially identified, and 35 studies were ultimately included, comprising 8580 nursing staff across diverse clinical settings, predominantly hospitals, with 13 studies conducted during the coronavirus disease period in 2019. Most studies reported moderate levels of compassion satisfaction and moderate levels of burnout and secondary traumatic stress. Higher compassion satisfaction was generally associated with greater age and professional experience, relevant education and training, work engagement, supportive work environments, better perceived control over workload, and stronger psychosocial resources, including resilience, psychological flexibility, self-compassion, mindfulness, and social support. Higher burnout and secondary traumatic stress related to indirect exposure were consistently linked to a high workload, overtime, rotating schedules, job stress, workplace violence, employment in high-intensity clinical areas, and adverse psychological states, including persistent stress, fear related to the coronavirus disease, and moral distress.

CONCLUSIONS: Professional quality of life among European nursing staff is influenced by a combination of demographic, occupational, and psychosocial factors. Multilevel strategies addressing organizational stressors while strengthening individual and team-based resources are warranted to improve compassion satisfaction and reduce burnout and secondary traumatic stress.},
}

@article {pmid42459266,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, D and Sun, G and Yuan, L and Yao, Y and Yang, T and Gao, J and Zhang, L},
title = {Internet healthcare in Chinese public hospitals: Towards high-quality development (1986-present).},
journal = {AIMS public health},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {598-621},
pmid = {42459266},
issn = {2327-8994},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Internet healthcare has become a key part of China's hospital-centered health system. Driven by "Internet Plus Healthcare", Healthy China 2030, and public-hospital high-quality development policies, it has evolved from remote consultation experiments into regulated online-offline care pathways. This review traces its development from the first documented remote medical practice in 1986 to the present, focusing on policy, institutional models, clinical evidence, governance challenges, and reform.

METHODS: We conducted a structured narrative review of English- and Chinese-language sources on internet healthcare in Chinese public hospitals. PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and official policy sources were searched. Eligible sources addressed internet hospitals, telemedicine, online follow-ups, remote monitoring, e-prescriptions, insurance payments, digital governance, clinical outcomes, patient safety, equity, or implementation barriers in mainland China.

RESULTS: Internet healthcare progressed through early telemedicine, institutional network expansion, internet-hospital development, and pandemic-driven normalization. The 2018 regulatory framework positioned internet hospitals as extensions of licensed physical medical institutions, thereby permitting online follow-ups for common and chronic diseases while preserving offline accountability. During COVID-19, online consultation, e-prescriptions, drug delivery, and insurance payments rapidly expanded. Evidence suggests benefits for chronic disease management, medication adherence, cardiovascular secondary prevention, and reduced travel burden. However, evidence remains limited for diagnostic accuracy, adverse events, emergency escalation, and long-term outcomes. Persistent barriers include quality variation, workload, cybersecurity, data fragmentation, artificial intelligence (AI) accountability, reimbursement design, regional inequity, and digital exclusion among older adults.

CONCLUSION: China's model may be understood as a hospital-centered extension of public-hospital functions rather than a stand-alone virtual-care system. Future development should prioritize outcome-based evaluations, safety governance, equitable access, data interoperability, and accountability for internet-based and AI-assisted care.},
}

@article {pmid42459503,
year = {2026},
author = {Larrain, D and Parker, CM},
title = {Beyond Prison Walls: A Scoping Review of Incarceration's Public Health Impacts in Latin America.},
journal = {Wellcome open research},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {193},
pmid = {42459503},
issn = {2398-502X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Incarceration has vast and unequal impacts on public health beyond prison walls. Research from the United States documents these collateral consequences, including elevated mental illness and morbidity for the children and partners of incarcerated individuals, alongside community-level effects such as increased rates of teenage pregnancy and multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. In Latin America, however, these broader health impacts remain critically understudied. A significant barrier is the absence of data collection efforts or theoretical frameworks for mapping how Latin America's prisons affect the health of families and surrounding communities.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review synthesises existing evidence on the collateral health consequences of incarceration in Latin America by conducting a comprehensive search in 2025 that included English, Spanish and Portuguese language peer-reviewed studies.

RESULTS: From 17 included documents, prisons emerge as epicentres for tuberculosis transmission to visiting families and surrounding communities. The evidence reveals significant mental and physical health burdens on families. Women with incarcerated partners experience depression and anxiety whilst managing economic strain and expanded caregiving responsibilities, often neglecting their own health. Children of incarcerated parents show marked emotional distress, and incarcerated mothers alongside their young children face severely inadequate healthcare access within detention spaces.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite collecting demographic data, most studies overlook how these burdens fall unequally across racialised populations. Future research must centre ethnoracial disparities and situated knowledge.},
}

@article {pmid42460684,
year = {2026},
author = {Foláyan, MO and Arobo, A and Oyeyemi, E and Bhayat, A and Tantawi, ME},
title = {Integrating Oral Health Into Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Missed Opportunities and Strategic Imperatives for Global Health System Resilience and Security.},
journal = {Community dentistry and oral epidemiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/cdoe.70092},
pmid = {42460684},
issn = {1600-0528},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite evidence linking oral health to severe COVID-19 outcomes and its potential role in surveillance and service delivery, integration remained absent. This study enquired about: (1) representation of oral health in national COVID-19 taskforces and funding; (2) policy-level barriers to inclusion; (3) lessons from maintaining essential services; and (4) strategies for mobilizing oral health professionals in future emergencies.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review guided by the PRISMA-ScR framework. Systematic searches were performed in PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus (2000-2025) using tailored search strings combining key terms: oral health, pandemic preparedness, COVID-19, dentistry, health systems and related MeSH terms. Eligible evidence included peer-reviewed studies, reviews, policy documents and commentaries in English. Non-human studies were excluded. Data were charted using the WHO Health System Building Blocks framework.

RESULTS: After dual-reviewer screening, 2569-3860 records were screened, yielding 5-8 eligible studies per question (26 studies total). The evidence revealed a consistent narrative of systemic exclusion yet operational resilience. For representation, oral health professionals were almost universally absent from national COVID-19 task forces, with dedicated financial support entirely lacking. Regarding barriers, policy integration was hindered by the framing of oral care as non-essential, its omission from global health security architectures like the International Health Regulations, and limited professional advocacy. In contrast, lessons from service adaptation demonstrated that essential care was maintained through the rapid adoption of triage, teledentistry, robust infection control and effective communication. On workforce mobilization, while consensus existed on the potential for OHPs to expand into roles such as vaccination and surveillance, implementation was obstructed by a lack of pre-emergency training, formal deployment mechanisms and regulatory frameworks with minimal linkage to international instruments.

CONCLUSION: The review reflects systemic neglect of oral health, with the literature dominated by descriptions of clinical and operational adaptations rather than formal policy integration. We identify missed opportunities in leveraging OHPs for pandemic response and propose embedding oral health within One Health governance, financing, surveillance and emergency response structures to build more resilient health systems.},
}

@article {pmid42461048,
year = {2026},
author = {Översti, S and Lytras, S and Kawakubo, S and Ito, J and Ghafari, M},
title = {From sites to structure to serology: a roadmap for structure-aware molecular evolution of antigenically evolving viruses.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0168725},
doi = {10.1128/jvi.01687-25},
pmid = {42461048},
issn = {1098-5514},
abstract = {The genomic deluge has pushed viral molecular evolution into a site-resolved era. For antigenically evolving viruses such as influenza and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), dense genomic sampling now supports mutation-annotated phylogenies and per-site estimates of mutation and substitution processes. These data highlight strong effects of sequence context, genomic region, RNA structure, and protein-level constraints that are blurred by classic uniform substitution models. In parallel, accurate structure prediction and emerging structure-aware phylogenetic and machine-learning approaches provide practical ways to map mutations onto three-dimensional constraints, identify structurally plausible escape routes, and interpret evolutionary rate variation through solvent exposure, packing, stability, glycosylation, receptor-binding interfaces, and epitope geometry. Finally, antigenic cartography translates some forms of genetic change into an epidemiologically meaningful phenotype-antigenic distance-while predictive modeling increasingly enables sequence-to-antigenicity inference for variants that have not yet been tested experimentally. Here, we outline a practical framework linking sites, structure, and serology for viruses in which antigenic evolution is a major component of immune escape and lineage turnover; highlight why genetic and antigenic "clocks" can diverge; and discuss how integrating genomic surveillance data, phylogenetics, structural analysis, and predictive modeling could support more prospective variant assessment and improved vaccine and therapeutic design.},
}

@article {pmid42461075,
year = {2026},
author = {Hashemi, S and Pati, D},
title = {Healthcare Design for Pandemic Resilience: A Systems Thinking Approach.},
journal = {HERD},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {19375867261466289},
doi = {10.1177/19375867261466289},
pmid = {42461075},
issn = {2167-5112},
abstract = {BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic created unprecedented operational challenges (such as surge-capacity demands and infection-control requirements) that disturbed the equilibrium of healthcare work systems worldwide. Physical environments can play a pivotal role in mitigating or exacerbating these challenges.PurposeThis article aims to strengthen healthcare-system resilience in future pandemics by synthesizing the findings of existing literature to identify environmental factors that supported or hindered healthcare work systems during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsWe conducted a systematic search of the CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases and complemented this search with handsearching. We included studies if they addressed the COVID-19 pandemic, focused on physical healthcare environments, and were published in English in peer-reviewed journals. With a focus on environmental influences, we deductively coded the findings using components of the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model.ResultsForty-two studies met the inclusion criteria. The analysis revealed six major operational challenges: (1) surge capacity, (2) infection control, (3) increased risk of errors, (4) rethinking of care models, (5) financial losses, and (6) the pandemic's adverse psychological impacts on staff and patients. The article documents environmental factors that influenced either the overall healthcare work system or its individual components during the COVID-19 pandemic. We identified three overarching roles for these environmental factors: they served as barriers, solutions, or facilitators.ConclusionsUsing the SEIPS framework can enable well-orchestrated pandemic-response planning by guiding the creation of design strategies that will strengthen resilience, flexibility, and safety in future health crises.},
}

@article {pmid42461270,
year = {2026},
author = {Farrag, MA},
title = {The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Predictive Virology: Forecasting, Tracking, and Combating Viral Threats.},
journal = {Vector borne and zoonotic diseases (Larchmont, N.Y.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15303667261469037},
doi = {10.1177/15303667261469037},
pmid = {42461270},
issn = {1557-7759},
abstract = {The escalating threat of viral pandemics, dramatically illustrated by the COVID-19 crisis, has exposed the critical shortcomings of conventional reactive virology in addressing rapidly evolving pathogens. This review introduces predictive virology (PV) as an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven discipline within broader epidemic intelligence and public health surveillance that uses advanced computational tools to forecast viral threats and accelerate countermeasure design. The current review systematically examines how AI-driven approaches (e.g., machine learning and deep learning) are reshaping virology by integrating vast genomic datasets, multimodal surveillance signals, and advanced computational models to anticipate viral emergence and evolution before widespread transmission occurs. Core pillars of PV discussed include zero-shot mutational fitness and antigenic escape prediction using large protein language models; multimodal early-warning systems that fuse wastewater monitoring, digital epidemiology, mobility data, and social media; neural differential equation-based transmission modeling; generative AI for de novo design of broad-spectrum antivirals and vaccines; and ecological risk assessment of zoonotic spillovers. In retrospective benchmarks against deep mutational scanning experiments and real-world epidemiological outcomes (SARS-CoV-2 variants, influenza, and other outbreaks), several AI-powered tools have demonstrated performance comparable to or exceeding traditional methods, although prospective validation at scale remains limited. Despite remarkable progress, significant challenges persist, including data bias, overfitting to historical patterns, lack of prospective validation, and limited generalizability across settings. In addition, there are concerns about mechanistic interpretability, equitable global data integration, and responsible deployment. This review also critically addresses the ethical, governance, and equity implications of deploying predictive capabilities at a global scale. By consolidating cutting-edge AI methodologies with virological insights and acknowledging current limitations, this work provides a comprehensive framework for transitioning virology from a reactive to a truly predictive discipline, ultimately strengthening global health security and pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid42461676,
year = {2026},
author = {Mace, SE and Doyle, CJ and Biddinger, PD and Bradin, S and Burdash, S and Lefort, R and Noll, S and Moriber, MR and Cornelius, A},
title = {Disaster preparedness for vulnerable populations during a pandemic: Part 1: Pandemics: Overview, history, and vulnerability for a pandemic.},
journal = {American journal of disaster medicine},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {109-118},
doi = {10.5055/ajdm.0531},
pmid = {42461676},
issn = {1932-149X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vulnerable Populations ; *Pandemics/history ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Disaster Planning/organization & administration ; Pandemic Preparedness ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Surge Capacity/organization & administration ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; United States ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the literature on disaster preparedness regarding surge capacity, with a particular focus on vulnerable populations during a pandemic.

DESIGN: The Disaster Preparedness and Response Committee of the American College of Emergency Physicians addressed the topic of vulnerable populations during a pandemic. A workgroup of nine physicians with academic and/or disaster deployment experience was formed. A literature review focused on individuals with access and functional needs, also referred to as special healthcare needs (SHCNs) or vulnerable individuals, was performed. Search terms included pandemic, public health emergency of international concern, disaster, COVID-19, vulnerable population, individuals with access and functional needs, special healthcare needs (SHCN), surge capacity, and CMIST (communications, medical care, independence, supervision, and transportation). Search strategies included medical sources such as PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Reviews were performed by a librarian. In addition, relevant articles from the bibliographies of included studies and more recent articles identified by committee members were included. The workgroup evaluated the literature and identified issues regarding surge capacity occurring during a pandemic that particularly impacted the SHCN population. Potential solutions were identified.

RESULTS: Vulnerable individuals are at greater risk during a pandemic than the general population, although potential solutions to mitigate the impact of a pandemic on vulnerable individuals are possible.

CONCLUSIONS: Although pandemics can have significant adverse effects on the general population, vulnerable individuals have the greatest morbidity and mortality and are at greatest risk. Efforts are warranted to better address the negative impact of a pandemic, not just for the general population, but also for individuals with access and functional needs, and to find solutions that can help mitigate the consequences of a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Vulnerable Populations
*Pandemics/history
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Disaster Planning/organization & administration
Pandemic Preparedness
SARS-CoV-2
*Surge Capacity/organization & administration
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
United States

@article {pmid42461677,
year = {2026},
author = {Mace, SE and Doyle, CJ and Biddinger, PD and Bradin, S and Burdash, S and Lefort, R and Noll, S and Moriber, MR and Cornelius, A},
title = {Disaster preparedness for vulnerable populations during a pandemic: Part 2: The origins of a pandemic: Emerging infectious diseases, bioterrorism, and laboratory accidents.},
journal = {American journal of disaster medicine},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {119-131},
doi = {10.5055/ajdm.0527},
pmid = {42461677},
issn = {1932-149X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vulnerable Populations ; *Pandemics ; *Bioterrorism ; *Disaster Planning/organization & administration ; COVID-19 ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology ; Surge Capacity/organization & administration ; Pandemic Preparedness ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the literature on disaster preparedness regarding surge capacity with a particular focus on vulnerable populations during a pandemic.

DESIGN: The Disaster Preparedness and Response Committee of the American College of Emergency Physicians addressed the topic of vulnerable populations during a pandemic. A workgroup of nine physicians with academic and/or disaster deployment experience was formed. A literature review focused on individuals with access and functional needs, also referred to as special healthcare needs (SHCN) or vulnerable individuals, was performed. Search terms included pandemic, public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), disaster, COVID-19, vulnerable population, individuals with access and functional needs, special health care needs (SHCN), surge capacity, and CMIST (communications, medical care, independence, supervision, and transportation). Search strategies included medical sources such as PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Reviews were performed by a librarian. In addition, relevant articles from the bibliographies of included studies and more recent articles identified by committee members were included. The workgroup evaluated the literature and identified issues regarding surge capacity occurring during a pandemic that particularly impacted the SHCN population. Potential solutions were identified.

RESULTS: Vulnerable individuals are at greater risk during a pandemic than the general population, although potential solutions to mitigate the impact of a pandemic on vulnerable individuals are -possible.

CONCLUSIONS: Although pandemics can have significant adverse effects on the general population, vulnerable individuals have the greatest morbidity and mortality and are at the greatest risk. Efforts are warranted to better address the negative impact of a pandemic, not just for the general population but also for individuals with access and functional needs, and to find solutions that can help mitigate the consequences of a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Vulnerable Populations
*Pandemics
*Bioterrorism
*Disaster Planning/organization & administration
COVID-19
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology
Surge Capacity/organization & administration
Pandemic Preparedness
SARS-CoV-2
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology

@article {pmid42461678,
year = {2026},
author = {Mace, SE and Doyle, CJ and Biddinger, PD and Bradin, S and Burdash, S and Lefort, R and Noll, S and Moriber, MR and Cornelius, A},
title = {Disaster preparedness for vulnerable populations during a pandemic: Part 3: Surge capacity and communications in a pandemic.},
journal = {American journal of disaster medicine},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {133-148},
doi = {10.5055/ajdm.0525},
pmid = {42461678},
issn = {1932-149X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vulnerable Populations ; *Pandemics ; *Surge Capacity/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Disaster Planning/organization & administration ; Pandemic Preparedness ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; United States ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the literature on disaster preparedness regarding surge capacity with a particular focus on vulnerable populations during a pandemic.

DESIGN: The Disaster Preparedness and Response Committee of the American College of Emergency Physicians addressed the topic of vulnerable populations during a pandemic. A workgroup of nine physicians with academic and/or disaster deployment experience was formed. A literature review focused on individuals with access and functional needs, also referred to as special healthcare needs (SHCN) or vulnerable individuals, was performed. Search terms included pandemic, public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), disaster, COVID-19, vulnerable population, individuals with access and functional needs, special health care needs (SHCN), surge capacity, and communications, medical care, independence, supervision, and transportation (CMIST). Search strategies included medical sources such as PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Reviews were performed by a librarian. In addition, relevant articles from the bibliographies of included studies and more recent articles identified by committee members were included. The workgroup evaluated the literature and identified issues regarding surge capacity occurring during a pandemic that particularly impacted the SHCN population. Potential solutions were identified.

RESULTS: Vulnerable individuals are at greater risk during a pandemic than the general population, although potential solutions to mitigate the impact of a pandemic on vulnerable individuals are possible.

CONCLUSIONS: Although pandemics can have significant adverse effects on the general population, vulnerable individuals have the greatest morbidity and mortality and are at the greatest risk. Efforts are warranted to better address the negative impact of a pandemic, not just for the general population but also for individuals with access and functional needs, and to find solutions that can help mitigate the consequences of a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Vulnerable Populations
*Pandemics
*Surge Capacity/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Disaster Planning/organization & administration
Pandemic Preparedness
SARS-CoV-2
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
United States

@article {pmid42461679,
year = {2026},
author = {Mace, SE and Doyle, CJ and Biddinger, PD and Bradin, S and Burdash, S and Lefort, R and Noll, S and Moriber, MR and Cornelius, A},
title = {Disaster preparedness for vulnerable populations during a pandemic: Part 4: Pandemics: Planning for those with access and functional needs in a pandemic.},
journal = {American journal of disaster medicine},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {149-159},
doi = {10.5055/ajdm.0526},
pmid = {42461679},
issn = {1932-149X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vulnerable Populations ; *Disaster Planning/organization & administration ; *Pandemics ; *Surge Capacity/organization & administration ; *Health Services Accessibility ; Pandemic Preparedness ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Health Services Needs and Demand ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To provide an overview of the literature on disaster preparedness regarding surge capacity with a particular focus on vulnerable populations during a pandemic.

DESIGN: The Disaster Preparedness and Response Committee of the American College of Emergency Physicians addressed the topic of vulnerable populations during a pandemic. A workgroup of nine physicians with academic and/or disaster deployment experience was formed. A literature review focused on individuals with access and functional needs, also referred to as special healthcare needs (SHCN) or vulnerable individuals, was performed. Search terms included pandemic, public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), disaster, vulnerable population, individuals with access and functional needs, special health care needs (SHCN), surge capacity, and communications, medical care, independence, supervision, and transportation (CMIST). Search strategies included medical sources such as PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Reviews were performed by a librarian. In addition, relevant articles from the bibliographies of included studies and more recent articles identified by committee members were included. The workgroup evaluated the literature and identified issues regarding surge capacity occurring during a pandemic that particularly impacted the SHCN population. Potential solutions were identified.

RESULTS: Vulnerable individuals are at greater risk during a pandemic than the general population, although potential solutions to mitigate the impact of a pandemic on vulnerable individuals are possible.

CONCLUSIONS: Although pandemics can have significant adverse effects on the general population, vulnerable individuals have the greatest morbidity and mortality and are at the greatest risk. Efforts are warranted to better address the negative impact of a pandemic, not just for the general population but also for individuals with access and functional needs, and to find solutions that can help mitigate the consequences of a pandemic.},
}

Humans
*Vulnerable Populations
*Disaster Planning/organization & administration
*Pandemics
*Surge Capacity/organization & administration
*Health Services Accessibility
Pandemic Preparedness
COVID-19/epidemiology
Health Services Needs and Demand

@article {pmid42461883,
year = {2026},
author = {Sheybani, F and Haddad, M},
title = {Community-Acquired CNS Infections in Western Asia (2010-2025): A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Neuroepidemiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-22},
doi = {10.1159/000553536},
pmid = {42461883},
issn = {1423-0208},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Background / Objective: This systematic review aimed to summarize the epidemiology, etiology, diagnostic challenges, antimicrobial resistance, and clinical outcomes of community-acquired central nervous system (CNS) infections in Western Asian countries.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed was conducted for studies published from January 2010 to July 2025. Eligible studies included original research and case reports on CNS infections, while unrelated studies or studies outside Western Asia were excluded. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively by pathogen group. Risk of bias was assessed based on study design, sample size, and methodological quality.

RESULTS: Of 1,790 retrieved articles, 450 studies met the inclusion criteria, including case reports and observational studies across neonates, children, and adults. Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis were the most common bacterial pathogens; Listeria monocytogenes and multidrug-resistant Gram-negative organisms were notable. Among viral pathogens, Enteroviruses, herpes simplex virus type 1, and West Nile virus predominated, with increasing reports of post-COVID-19 autoimmune encephalitis. Tuberculous meningitis and neurobrucellosis remained significant causes of chronic CNS infections in endemic areas. Pneumococcal penicillin resistance exceeded 40% in some countries. Molecular diagnostic capacity and surveillance were limited.

LIMITATIONS: Evidence was limited by heterogeneity in study design, regional data gaps, and variable reporting of antimicrobial resistance, which may affect the comprehensiveness of the review. Conclusions / Interpretation: Community-acquired CNS infections continue to impose a substantial health burden in Western Asia. Expanded vaccination, improved molecular diagnostics, strengthened surveillance, and regional antimicrobial resistance monitoring are essential to reduce preventable mortality and long-term neurological sequelae.},
}

@article {pmid42462434,
year = {2026},
author = {Wołowiec, Ł and Wesołowska, W and Skibicka, K and Jaśniak, A and Banach, J and Osiak, J and Wołowiec, A and Skibicki, T and Grześk, G},
title = {Pleiotropic effects of direct oral anticoagulants on the coagulation-inflammation-endothelium axis: A phenotype-stratified narrative review.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {202},
number = {},
pages = {119768},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2026.119768},
pmid = {42462434},
issn = {1950-6007},
abstract = {AIMS: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) - dabigatran (a thrombin inhibitor) and rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban (factor Xa [FXa] inhibitors) - modify oxidative stress, endothelial inflammation, and barrier integrity beyond anticoagulation. We ask whether this reflects distinct pharmacology or silencing of proteases at protease-activated receptors (PARs), and propose a three-condition framework for when it becomes clinically measurable.

METHODS: Narrative review (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science; primary search 2019-2026, with foundational earlier references retained) with claims graded on a six-tier hierarchy; A‡ marks trials formally negative or inconclusive owing to insufficient statistical power.

RESULTS: DOAC effects largely converge on one node - reduced PAR-1 signalling under thrombin inhibition and dual PAR-1/PAR-2 blockade under FXa inhibition - rather than independent targets; the FXa-PAR-2 axis is cross-validated across macrophages, liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, and neutrophils; and dabigatran plausibly differs qualitatively rather than only in degree - a working hypothesis whose mechanistic linchpin (residual exosite-I signalling) currently rests on a single unreplicated in-vitro study (level D). Clinically the signal sorts by phenotype and disease phase, not class: low-dose rivaroxaban benefits stable atherosclerosis (COMPASS) but not heart failure in sinus rhythm (COMMANDER-HF), and COVID-19 benefit appears only in convalescence (MICHELLE), not acutely or in outpatients (ACTIV-4B, A‡). A nationwide cohort linked DOACs to lower acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease progression than vitamin K antagonists, pending separation from their nephrotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS: Pleiotropy emerges where three conditions coincide - the protease is available at PARs, its generation is chronic, and PAR signalling is rate-limiting. This supports within-indication molecule selection (selection, not extension) and biomarker co-primary trials, not extension of indications.},
}

@article {pmid42463201,
year = {2026},
author = {Byambasuren, O and Atkins, T and Baptista, S and Glasziou, P and Chakraborty, S},
title = {Effect of low-dose naltrexone for long COVID: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {16},
number = {7},
pages = {e111253},
doi = {10.1136/bmjopen-2025-111253},
pmid = {42463201},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; *Naltrexone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; Quality of Life ; Fatigue/drug therapy/etiology ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Long covid is a debilitating chronic condition, and the effect of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) on its symptoms is unclear. We aimed to determine the effectiveness of LDN on symptoms of long covid.

DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library for published studies; ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) for registered ongoing studies were searched through 5 May 2026.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials and pre-post studies of patients with long covid reporting on fatigue, quality of life, cognitive symptoms or function and other long covid symptoms.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two independent reviewers used standardised methods to search, screen and select included studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Meta-analysis was conducted using random effects models.

RESULTS: Of 397 titles and abstracts screened, no randomised controlled trials were identified. Four observational pre-post studies from the USA and Ireland (n=155) met inclusion criteria. LDN doses varied from 1 mg/day to 6 mg/day. Pooled pre-post analyses showed moderate effects for reducing fatigue (Hedges' g=-0.74; 95% CI -1.11 to -0.37; p<0.001), brain fog (Hedges' g=-0.53; 95% CI -1.01 to -0.05; p=0.03) and improving sleep quality (Hedges' g=-0.60; 95% CI -0.91 to -0.30; p=0.0001), and large effects for pain (Hedges' g=-0.93; 95% CI -1.29 to -0.57; p<0.001) and daily functioning (Hedges' g=-0.93; 95% CI -1.29 to -0.57; p<0.0001) in favour of LDN. Heterogeneity ranged from 0% to 62%. No serious adverse events were reported in the two studies that assessed safety.

CONCLUSION: Limited evidence from small pre-post studies suggests LDN may improve fatigue, cognition, sleep, pain and functioning in long covid. However, certainty of evidence is low. Well-powered trials are needed to confirm efficacy, determine dosing and duration and identify subgroups most likely to benefit.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/C2VKX.},
}

Humans
*Naltrexone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Narcotic Antagonists/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
Quality of Life
Fatigue/drug therapy/etiology
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42464199,
year = {2026},
author = {Pham, ANQ and Akram, I and Tiwana, MH and Smith, J},
title = {Waiting times for primary care appointments among older adults: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12889-026-28406-w},
pmid = {42464199},
issn = {1471-2458},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Healthcare service waiting times have worsened due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly impacting older adults who need timely access to primary care to manage chronic conditions and prevent hospitalizations. This scoping review aims to fill a research gap by examining whether delays in primary care appointments for older adults occurred and, if so, how these delays have affected their access to primary care, with a focus on the role of social determinants of health.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across three health databases-MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL, and EMBASE-as well as one AI platform (typeset.io). To be included, articles needed to discuss waiting times for primary care appointments, include older adults in their target population, and be published in English since 2014. Non-English articles were excluded due to language proficiency constraints among the review team. The review also examined the impact of social determinants of health on equity in access to care.

RESULTS: This review identified a significant lack of research on primary care waiting times for older adults, with only twelve studies addressing the issue. Findings indicate that prolonged wait times act as a major barrier to accessing timely care, resulting in patient frustration, delayed treatment, and increased reliance on emergency services. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these challenges, particularly through care interruptions and the shift to virtual care, which is understudied regarding its impact on waiting times.

CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged waiting times for primary care disproportionately affect older adults, exacerbated by age-related health conditions and intersecting social determinants. Healthcare systems must address these barriers and prioritize research into tailored interventions to ensure equitable access to care for older adults.},
}

@article {pmid42465772,
year = {2026},
author = {Feya, Q and Mkhize-Kwitshana, ZL and Milase, RN and Wadee, A and Naidoo, N and Maiga, M and Senzani, S and Nakiyingi, L and Mvubu, NE},
title = {Molecular signaling in coinfection: how M. tuberculosis and respiratory viruses rewire host immunity and alter TB outcomes.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1863302},
pmid = {42465772},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Coinfection/immunology ; *Mycobacterium tuberculosis/immunology ; Signal Transduction/immunology ; Animals ; *Tuberculosis/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/immunology ; },
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tuberculosis) and respiratory viral infections remain major, intersecting global health challenges, and their co-occurrence imposes a disproportionate burden in high-HIV/high-TB regions such as sub-Saharan Africa. Coinfection biology is heterogeneous and dynamic, driven by viral diversity including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), influenza A/B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), parainfluenza, metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, adenovirus, and bocavirus, and by the underlying TB stage, from latent and subclinical to active and reactivation disease. Innate sensing pathways, such as Toll-like receptors (TLR), retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), and cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING), converge during coinfection, reshaping type I interferon (IFN-I), Nuclear Factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and AP-1-driven responses and triggering a network of autocrine and paracrine signaling that reprograms macrophages, dendritic cells, and T-cell subsets. This immune rewiring alters granuloma equilibrium through suppressed Th1/IFN-γ coordination, exaggerated Th17/IL-17-driven neutrophilia, and regulatory T-cell or IL-10-mediated dampening, which together destabilize macrophage activation and tissue architecture. Oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMP)-driven matrix remodeling further integrate with these pathways, converting inflammatory signals into epithelial damage, cavitation, and fibrosis. Consequently, disease outcomes depend critically on timing, viral burden, pathogen order, host immune endotype, and TB stage, such that the same virus can either preserve containment or drive progression depending on the local immunological context. Importantly, the effects of respiratory viral coinfection vary across the TB disease continuum, influencing early granuloma formation, latent infection, reactivation risk, and established disease through distinct immunological mechanisms. Host-directed therapies (HDT) targeting interferon, IL-1, TNF, inflammasome, or metabolic checkpoints hold mechanistic promise but exhibit variable clinical translation, underscoring the need for precision approaches that integrate stage- and endotype-specific biomarkers. This narrative review proposes an integrated systems framework that links viral sensing, immune rewiring, granuloma biology, and tissue-remodeling to TB-respiratory virus coinfection, and emphasizes how timing-aware, biomarker-guided strategies can refine diagnosis, clinical management, prognosis, and vaccine design in vulnerable populations.},
}

Humans
*Coinfection/immunology
*Mycobacterium tuberculosis/immunology
Signal Transduction/immunology
Animals
*Tuberculosis/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/immunology

@article {pmid42466633,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Z and Han, X and Ren, Y},
title = {Global epidemiological and aetiological patterns of hand, foot, and mouth disease: a country-level scoping synthesis.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {04220},
doi = {10.7189/jogh.16.04220},
pmid = {42466633},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {*Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease/epidemiology/etiology/virology ; Humans ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; Incidence ; Disease Outbreaks ; Enterovirus ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) has historically been predominantly reported in the Asia-Pacific region, while its global epidemiology and aetiology remain fragmented and incompletely characterised. We aimed to synthesise currently available country-level evidence to describe global epidemiological and aetiological patterns of HFMD.

METHODS: We conducted a country-level scoping synthesis of published studies and publicly available surveillance reports through August 2025. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they reported epidemiological or aetiological data on HFMD at the national or subnational level, including case numbers, incidence, outbreaks, and enterovirus (EV) serotype distributions. We qualitatively synthesised the data, with a focus on surveillance availability, epidemiological trends, and major circulating EV serotypes.

RESULTS: Reported HFMD incidence declined during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequently rebounded in many settings, in some settings exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Aetiological evidence suggests an increasing circulation of coxsackievirus A6 in multiple regions, with coxsackievirus A16 and EV A71 continuing to co-circulate in specific settings. However, routine epidemiological and aetiological surveillance remained largely concentrated in the Asia-Pacific region. In many other countries, available data were limited and primarily derived from outbreak-driven or sporadic studies. Heterogeneity was observed in surveillance systems and data availability across countries.

CONCLUSIONS: Global HFMD epidemiological and aetiological patterns are characterised by disparities in surveillance capacity and data availability. Developing standardised surveillance and aetiological monitoring is essential to further understand the global landscape of HFMD, improve data comparability, support early detection of epidemiological changes, and inform evidence-based prevention and control strategies.},
}

*Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease/epidemiology/etiology/virology
Humans
*Global Health/statistics & numerical data
Incidence
Disease Outbreaks
Enterovirus
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid42466786,
year = {2026},
author = {Szynal, D and Olszowski, T},
title = {Nurse burnout as a public health issue and Its impact on patient care quality. A narrative review.},
journal = {Roczniki Panstwowego Zakladu Higieny},
volume = {77},
number = {1},
pages = {21-32},
doi = {10.32394/rpzh/225226},
pmid = {42466786},
issn = {0035-7715},
mesh = {Humans ; *Burnout, Professional/psychology/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Quality of Health Care ; Quality of Life ; *Nurses/psychology ; Workload/psychology ; Public Health ; Emotional Exhaustion ; },
abstract = {Occupational burnout among nurses is a significant public health issue. It affects both nurses' well-being and the quality of patient care. The aim of this narrative review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of four key aspects of occupational burnout among nurses, namely its prevalence, determinants, consequences for patient care and mental health, and available prevention strategies. Literature was identified through searches of PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles published in English between 2015 and 2026 were reviewed and selected according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Burnout develops through the interaction of organizational, psychosocial, and individual factors. The most important contributors include work overload, staffing shortages, low autonomy, psychosocial stress, personality traits, and health status. Higher burnout levels are associated with increased medical errors, patient falls, and missed nursing care. Burnout also contributes to lower patient satisfaction and poorer perceived quality of care. Prolonged stress increases the risk of depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, reduced psychological resilience, and intentions to leave the profession, negatively impacting nurses' quality of life and social functioning. Effective preventive and therapeutic strategies include mindfulness-based programs, cognitive-behavioral therapy, physical exercise, and resilience training. These interventions may be delivered both in person and digitally. Their effectiveness improves in supportive environments with allocated participation time and leadership engagement. Interventions at individual, team, and system levels reduce emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, enhance staff well-being, and improve patient safety. In the context of a global nursing shortage and increased workloads following the COVID-19 pandemic, multi-level strategies to prevent occupational burnout are essential for protecting nurses' mental health and maintaining high-quality healthcare. The review highlights the importance of multi-level preventive interventions to reduce burnout and improve healthcare outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Burnout, Professional/psychology/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Quality of Health Care
Quality of Life
*Nurses/psychology
Workload/psychology
Public Health
Emotional Exhaustion

@article {pmid42467815,
year = {2026},
author = {Mastrovito, B and Abou Chakra, CN and Mahé, C and Nunes, MC},
title = {How Pandemics Have Reshaped the Respiratory Virus Data Landscape in Europe: Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {28},
number = {},
pages = {e92917},
doi = {10.2196/92917},
pmid = {42467815},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {Humans ; Europe/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology ; *Pandemics ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute respiratory infections caused by influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2 remain a major public health challenge in Europe. Although surveillance systems for these pathogens are well established, the past 2 decades have seen a rapid diversification of data streams supporting surveillance and research. This expanding data landscape, combined with fragmentation across institutions, sectors, and countries, may limit timely evidence synthesis and effective public health decision-making.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to identify and characterize data sources used for surveillance and research on influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2 in Europe over the past 20 years, and to examine their evolution over time, their alignment with research objectives, and geographic variation in data availability and use.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review using an objective-driven analytical framework. Empirical reports published between January 2005 and September 2025 were identified in MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Embase. Eligible reports focused on influenza, RSV, or SARS-CoV-2 and included data from 12 European countries. Clinical and interventional studies were excluded. Reports were classified according to 4 research objectives: epidemiological monitoring, evaluation of interventions, assessment of disease burden and health outcomes, and analyses of population adherence and trust toward public health measures. Data sources were grouped into 9 categories, including surveillance systems, electronic health records (EHRs), registries, claims, surveys, digital, environmental, integrated datasets, and others.

RESULTS: A total of 2564 empirical reports were included. Over time, respiratory virus research relied on an increasingly diverse set of data streams. While surveillance systems remained central, particularly for epidemiological monitoring, their relative dominance declined. From 2020 onward, there was a marked expansion in the use of EHRs, registries, claims data, digital sources, and linked or integrated datasets, alongside increased use of open-access data. Data source use varied by research objective: surveillance data predominated in monitoring and intervention evaluation; EHRs in studies of risk factors and treatment effectiveness; surveys in seroprevalence and public trust analyses; and claims data in assessments of economic burden. Substantial geographic disparities were observed. Northern European countries more frequently used linked and multisource datasets, whereas Southern Europe relied more often on open-access or single-source data.

CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review provides a multipathogen, cross-country mapping of data sources for respiratory virus surveillance and research in Europe over 2 decades, applying an innovative objective-driven framework. Unlike prior reviews focused on single pathogens or data types, it offers a consolidated, comparative perspective based on 2564 reports to inform public health decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated innovation in data generation and access, but progress remained largely centered on SARS-CoV-2, while structural fragmentation continues to limit timely, integrated data across Europe. Strengthening preparedness will require interoperable infrastructures, federated analysis platforms, sustainable funding for surveillance innovations, and cross-sectoral data sharing.},
}

Humans
Europe/epidemiology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology
*Pandemics
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42100538,
year = {2026},
author = {Muturiki, M and Mapukata, NO and Chauke, L and Jewett, S},
title = {Mental health patterns and associated social determinants among university and college students in sub-Saharan Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic era: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1800724},
pmid = {42100538},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Determinants of Health ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Students/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Universities ; *Mental Health/statistics & numerical data ; Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology ; Sub-Saharan African People ; Pandemics ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Evidence on student mental health in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains limited, particularly studies examining how mental health patterns intersect with social determinants within higher education institutions (HEIs). This scoping review identifies gaps in the literature documenting student mental health and associated social determinants during the COVID-19 period and highlights priorities for future research in SSA.

METHODS: Eight databases (MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Open Access Journals, CINAHL, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, Scopus) and grey literature were searched for English-language studies from 2020 to 2023. Sixty-seven studies from 214 full-text articles screened met the inclusion criteria.

RESULTS: The included studies varied widely in their examination of student mental health and its links to social determinants of health (SDOH). Mental health was most frequently assessed in terms of depression, anxiety, suicidality, substance use disorders, and psychological distress. Mood disorders were the most commonly reported outcomes. Few studies explored help-seeking behavior. Reported social determinants aligned with structural factors (socioeconomic and political contexts, cultural norms, gender disparities) and intermediary factors such as academic stress, service access, and behavioral patterns including substance use, physical activity, sleep, and diet.

CONCLUSION: Although many studies addressed social determinants of student mental health in SSA, none provided comparable, multi-country data across HEIs. Most research focused on undergraduate particularly medical students, with limited attention to postgraduate populations. Future work should prioritize multi-country comparative studies and context-specific approaches that strengthen help-seeking and support for at-risk students across diverse SSA settings.},
}

Humans
*Social Determinants of Health
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Students/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Universities
*Mental Health/statistics & numerical data
Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology
Sub-Saharan African People
Pandemics
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology

@article {pmid42448413,
year = {2026},
author = {Viknesh, K and Vijayalakshmi, P and Alex, AM and Muthumani, LN and Muthupandian, S and Desai, D and Ramanathan, S and Likson, A and Selvaraj, C},
title = {Energetic landscapes and fuzzy complexes: Computational targeting of viral intrinsically disordered proteins.},
journal = {Advances in protein chemistry and structural biology},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {351-407},
doi = {10.1016/bs.apcsb.2026.04.009},
pmid = {42448413},
issn = {1876-1631},
mesh = {Humans ; *Intrinsically Disordered Proteins/chemistry/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; *Viral Proteins/chemistry/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Machine Learning ; },
abstract = {The increased recognition of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) as critical mediators in viral infections has shifted attention toward fuzzy drug targets, challenging the conventional structure-based paradigms of drug discovery due to their inherent conformational flexibility. The binding of viral IDPs and IDRs to host factors occurs in dynamic, multivalent, and context-dependent interactions and constitute flexible complexes, which form the basis of pathogenicity and immune evasion. In this review, the disordered proteins of viruses are considered with a combination of molecular, computational, and translational insights to assess the next-generation antiviral targets. In this, we have discuss about the energetic landscapes that control the disorder, functional disorder order transitions and the fuzzy interfaces as centers of the networks of virus-host interactions. Special focus is kept on the new lines of computational and AI-directed technologies such as ensemble-based docking, machine-learning computational models of IDP ligand recognition, and multi-omics-driven target prioritization. The experimental approaches that are modified to characterize disordered systems, including NMR spectroscopy and hybrid structural biology, are also reviewed. The translational applicability of the targeting of viral fuzziness is highlighted by case studies of HIV-1, influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and emerging viral pathogens. We also provide directions about the future involving adaptive pharmacophores, customized antiviral approaches, and AI-driven ensemble targeting making disordered viral proteins a paradigm shift in antiviral drug discovery.},
}

Humans
*Intrinsically Disordered Proteins/chemistry/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
*Viral Proteins/chemistry/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
Machine Learning

@article {pmid42449828,
year = {2026},
author = {Hetta, HF and Haseeb, A and Bukhari, SQ and Alatawi, Z and Mahrous, AJ and Elrggal, ME and Masri, MA and Kotb, AA},
title = {Emerging Multimodal Point-of-Care Diagnostic Strategies for Rapid Detection and Management of Respiratory Viruses: A State-of-the-Art Review.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diagnostics16132048},
pmid = {42449828},
issn = {2075-4418},
support = {26UQU4310470GSSR02//Umm al-Qura University/ ; 26UQU4310470GSSR03//Umm al-Qura University/ ; },
abstract = {The co-circulation of respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza A/B, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), represents a significant global health challenge that requires rapid, accurate, and differential diagnosis to support infection control and appropriate clinical decision-making. This narrative review summarizes emerging multimodal point-of-care testing (POCT) strategies for the detection and management of these respiratory viruses. Relevant studies were identified through literature searches of major scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on recent advances in molecular diagnostics, biosensors, microfluidics, and digital health technologies. To improve clinical interpretation and comparative assessment, current POCT platforms were organized into four operational tiers based on infrastructure dependence, degree of portability, and level of decentralization of testing. Tier 1 (Professional Clinical Systems) includes fully integrated automated molecular diagnostic platforms designed for use in hospital and emergency care settings. Tier 2 (Field-Deployable Systems) comprises portable molecular and isothermal amplification technologies designed for use in decentralized or resource-limited environments. Tier 3 (Hardware-Lite Assays) includes simplified diagnostic approaches that minimize instrument requirements and are suitable for near-patient or low-infrastructure settings. Tier 4 (Consumer-Digital Diagnostics) encompasses emerging smartphone- and IoT-integrated diagnostic platforms that support user-driven testing and digital health connectivity. This tier-based framework reflects a proposed stratification of POCT technologies along a decentralization continuum and aims to facilitate comparison and selection of diagnostic strategies across diverse healthcare settings.},
}

@article {pmid42450061,
year = {2026},
author = {Lim, S and Martina, B},
title = {Immune Mechanisms and Translational Study Design in Viral Vaccine Development.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27135790},
pmid = {42450061},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Translational Research, Biomedical ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Adaptive Immunity ; Immunity, Innate ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Viral vaccine development requires both mechanistic understanding of protective immunity and translational study designs that connect preclinical data with human outcomes. Animal models remain important for early assessment of safety, immunogenicity and protective efficacy, but their predictive value depends on the question being asked, the pathophysiology of infection, the immune mechanisms expected to mediate protection, and the biomarkers chosen to bridge animal and human data. This review focuses on viral vaccines and examines innate and adaptive mechanisms of vaccine-induced protection, including B cell and antibody responses, Fc-mediated functions, Fc glycosylation, T cell memory and CD8+ cytotoxic responses. We discuss common reasons for clinical failure and show how preclinical endpoints can be classified as human-counterpart, surrogate or comparative/mechanistic readouts. Influenza and COVID-19 examples illustrate how different models can be combined across discovery, challenge, transmission and late-stage bridging studies. Emerging tools such as systems serology, omics, AI/ML and new approach methods can improve candidate prioritization, but their value depends on assay standardization, biological validation and cautious interpretation. A mechanism-driven model cascade, paired with human-relevant immunological readouts, can improve preclinical interpretation and reduce the risk of advancing candidates that are unlikely to succeed in clinical trials.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Translational Research, Biomedical
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccine Development/methods
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Adaptive Immunity
Immunity, Innate
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology

@article {pmid42450077,
year = {2026},
author = {Russjan, E and Zając, D and Kaczyńska, K},
title = {Therapeutic Potential of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Respiratory Disorders.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27135803},
pmid = {42450077},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy ; Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor/metabolism ; Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/metabolism ; Animals ; COVID-19/metabolism ; Asthma/drug therapy ; Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy ; Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is an incretin hormone secreted in response to food intake that acts biologically by binding to GLP-1 receptors. The primary function of GLP-1 is to stimulate insulin secretion and inhibit glucagon secretion, which helps limit after-meal spikes in blood glucose. GLP-1 reduces intestinal contractility, slows down gastrointestinal motility and emptying, and also acts directly on the hypothalamus, thereby regulating appetite and food intake. Due to its metabolic effects, GLP-1 forms the basis of medications currently used to treat type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity. However, it has also been observed that the use of GLP-1 agonists in the treatment of obesity or diabetes has a beneficial effect on comorbid respiratory conditions. This narrative review analyzes the scientific literature and describes the most recent information on the impact of GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) therapies on the most common respiratory disorders-both the beneficial and undesirable effects. We discuss evidence that acute lung injury, COVID-19, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and obstructive sleep apnea can benefit from therapies with various GLP-1 RAs. They can complement existing lung-targeted treatments, but as research progresses, they are likely to play an ever more important role in the treatment of respiratory diseases.},
}

Humans
*Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/drug therapy
Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor/metabolism
Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/metabolism
Animals
COVID-19/metabolism
Asthma/drug therapy
Pulmonary Fibrosis/drug therapy
Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42450260,
year = {2026},
author = {Angamarca-Iguago, J and Parise-Vasco, JM and Reytor-González, C and Cagua-Ordoñez, J and Simancas-Racines, D},
title = {Temporal Dynamics of Innate Immune Activation and Viral Interference During Sequential Co-Infection with Influenza A Virus and SARS-CoV-2: Molecular Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, and Therapeutic Implications.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27135994},
pmid = {42450260},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate ; Animals ; *Influenza A virus/immunology ; *Influenza, Human/immunology/virology/drug therapy ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *Coinfection/immunology/virology ; *Viral Interference ; Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; Interferons ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {The concurrent circulation of influenza A virus (IAV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has unveiled complex host-pathogen interactions governed by temporal dynamics of innate immune activation. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from human air-liquid interface (ALI) epithelial models, animal studies (hamster, ferret), clinical cohorts, and randomized controlled trials (2015-2026) to delineate the molecular mechanisms underlying viral interference between these two major respiratory pathogens. Prior IAV infection induces a robust type I/III interferon (IFN) response and broad interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) upregulation that restricts subsequent SARS-CoV-2 replication within a critical 24-72 h temporal window. Conversely, SARS-CoV-2 employs a multi-layered immune evasion strategy that blunts IFN induction, providing minimal heterologous protection. Simultaneous co-infection tends to exacerbate disease severity. Host genetic determinants, including OAS1 and TLR7 variants, modulate interference capacity. Therapeutically, early pegylated IFN-λ shows clinical benefit, while experimental evidence from in vitro and animal models suggests oseltamivir may paradoxically reduce IAV-induced interference. These findings underscore the need for multi-pathogen diagnostics, temporally informed clinical decision-making, and IFN-based therapeutic strategies during co-circulation periods.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate
Animals
*Influenza A virus/immunology
*Influenza, Human/immunology/virology/drug therapy
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*Coinfection/immunology/virology
*Viral Interference
Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
Interferons
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid42450302,
year = {2026},
author = {Basu, S and Adhikary, D and Ghosh, K and Chattopadhyay, S and Deb, S and Mondal, R and Roy, J and Chowdhury, A and Benito-León, J},
title = {Machine Learning and Deep Learning Frameworks for Human-Virus Protein-Protein Interaction Prediction: Emerging Architectures, Methods, Benchmarks, and Challenges.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27136034},
pmid = {42450302},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Deep Learning ; *Machine Learning ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19/virology ; *Viral Proteins/metabolism ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; *Protein Interaction Mapping/methods ; Protein Interaction Maps ; Prediction Algorithms ; Betacoronavirus/metabolism ; Benchmarking ; },
abstract = {The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has emerged as one of the most significant global health crises in recent history. Coronaviruses are a diverse group of RNA viruses classified into alpha, beta, gamma, and delta genera, with SARS-CoV-2 belonging to the beta-coronavirus family. The virus exhibits high transmissibility and causes a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from mild respiratory symptoms to severe complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome, multi-organ failure, and death, particularly among elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Structurally, SARS-CoV-2 possesses a large single-stranded RNA genome encoding major structural proteins, including spike (S), envelope (E), membrane (M), and nucleocapsid (N) proteins, which play critical roles in host-cell recognition and viral infection. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of virus-host interactions, especially protein-protein interactions (PPIs), is essential for uncovering viral pathogenesis and identifying potential therapeutic targets. Traditional experimental techniques for PPI detection, such as yeast two-hybrid and affinity purification methods, are often expensive, labor-intensive, and prone to inaccuracies. Consequently, computational approaches based on machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) have gained significant attention for efficient and scalable PPI prediction. These methods use diverse biological information, including protein sequences, structural features, genomic data, Gene Ontology annotations, and interaction networks, to model complex biological relationships. This survey reviews computational approaches to PPI prediction, highlighting ML- and DL-based techniques, methodological advances, performance evaluation practices, and limitations that affect benchmark comparability. It also discusses biological databases and data sources commonly used in PPI studies and explicitly considers how models trained in coronavirus-centered settings may generalize to other viral families with different mechanisms of host interaction.},
}

Humans
*Deep Learning
*Machine Learning
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19/virology
*Viral Proteins/metabolism
Host-Pathogen Interactions
*Protein Interaction Mapping/methods
Protein Interaction Maps
Prediction Algorithms
Betacoronavirus/metabolism
Benchmarking

@article {pmid42450918,
year = {2026},
author = {Latzer, Y and Stein, D},
title = {The Impact of Recent Collective Trauma in Israel on Eating Disorders and Disordered Eating: An Overview and Clinical Perspective.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare14131908},
pmid = {42450918},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background: Periods of collective crises are associated with substantial deterioration in mental health. Whereas trauma-related psychopathology has received considerable clinical and policy attention during such periods, eating disorders (EDs) and disordered eating (DE) remain comparatively under-recognized. EDs and DE are well recognized in the Israeli context; however, accumulating evidence indicates a significant increase in their prevalence during periods of collective crisis. Objective: We sought to synthesize empirical findings and clinical observations in Israel about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the October 2023 War on the emergence and exacerbation of DE and EDs, and to examine the implications for clinical practice and mental health policy. Methods: We conducted a narrative review integrating epidemiological data, findings from Israeli healthcare organizations, scientific studies, and clinical insights from specialized ED services. Results: Across both crises, Israel experienced a marked increase in the full spectrum of eating-related disturbances, ranging from emotional eating and subclinical DE to severe full-blown EDs. Adolescents and young adults were particularly affected, but increased ED-related disturbance was also observed among adults and individuals with pre-existing EDs. These findings coincide with a prolonged duration period before receiving treatment and with limited service capacity. In response, the mental health system attempted to implement rapid adaptations, including expanded telemedicine, short-term targeted interventions, and new ambulatory and day treatment programs. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that DE and EDs constitute a significant and escalating mental health burden during periods of collective crises that is comparable to other trauma-related conditions. Just as comprehensive short- and long-term intervention frameworks have been developed for trauma-related conditions, similar models are urgently required for EDs.},
}

@article {pmid42452468,
year = {2026},
author = {Rada, M and Petculescu, IM and Pah, AM and Avram, A and Velimirovici, DE and Velciov, AB and Tudoran, C and Iurciuc, S and Utu, D and Gheorghe, DR and Craciun, ML},
title = {Valvular Heart Disease and Heart Failure in the Post-COVID-19 Era: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms, Diagnosis, Differential Assessment, and Clinical Outcomes.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15135007},
pmid = {42452468},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara//Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular involvement is among the most consequential sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Myocardial injury, arrhythmia, and thromboembolic disease have been characterized in depth, yet the relationship between COVID-19 and valvular heart disease (VHD), and its interplay with heart failure (HF), has received comparatively limited synthesis. This narrative review consolidates current evidence on the mechanisms, diagnosis, differential assessment, and clinical outcomes linking acute and post-acute COVID-19 to valvular dysfunction and to incident or worsening heart failure, with emphasis on practical implications for cardiologists and internists. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (January 2020-January 2026) for studies on valvular dysfunction, heart failure, myocardial injury, and endothelial pathology in SARS-CoV-2 infection, and synthesized findings narratively. Results: Convergent pathways-endothelial injury, systemic hyperinflammation, micro- and macrovascular thrombosis, and pressure-volume overload-contribute to functional and, less frequently, structural valvular changes. Available evidence suggests that clinically relevant post-COVID valvular abnormalities are more often secondary/functional (mitral and tricuspid regurgitation) than primary structural lesions, although dedicated prospective valvular studies remain scarce. Pre-existing severe VHD markedly worsens acute COVID-19 prognosis. Elevated NT-proBNP, troponin, and interleukin-6 consistently predict decompensation and mortality, and a substantial minority of survivors show persistent fibrotic pulmonary changes and restrictive ventilatory defects on follow-up (pulmonary rather than cardiac findings). Conclusions: Post-COVID valvular dysfunction appears, on currently available but largely indirect evidence, predominantly functional and inflammation-related, and may overlap with HFpEF phenotypes in selected patients when objective diagnostic criteria are fulfilled. Biomarker-guided, multimodality follow-up is reasonable in high-risk survivors, and prospective longitudinal studies with standardized valvular endpoints remain a priority. Dedicated longitudinal evidence on valvular outcomes specifically remains very limited.},
}

@article {pmid42452593,
year = {2026},
author = {Kasiak, P and Procyk, G},
title = {COACH Study: COVID-19 Influence on Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Athletes-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15135133},
pmid = {42452593},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Objectives: We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the impact of COVID-19 infection on cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF): (1) within-athlete (the same participants before and after infection), and (2) between-athlete (infected vs. healthy reference participants). Methods: In this systematic review (PROSPERO Registry: CRD42024540430) we included observational studies enrolling recreational or competitive athletes ≥18 years old with laboratory confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 infection. The primary outcome was change in relative maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Secondary outcomes included changes in absolute VO2max, maximal ventilation (VEmax), and maximal heart rate (HRmax). We searched Embase, PubMed, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science up to August 9th, 2025. Risk of bias was assessed with the JBI critical appraisal tool. Meta-analyses were performed with a random-effects model. Results: Twelve studies enrolling a total of 1595 participants met the eligibility criteria. COVID-19 infection was associated with lower relative VO2max (MD = -1.83 mL·kg[-1]·min[-1]; 95%CI [-3.16, -0.49]; p = 0.007; I[2] = 54%) and absolute VO2max (MD = -0.15 L·min[-1]; 95%CI [-0.29, -0.01]; p = 0.03; I[2] = 0%). COVID-19 infection was associated with lower VEmax (MD = -7.99 L·min[-1]; 95%CI [-12.94, -3.04]; p = 0.002; I[2] = 0%) but not with HRmax (MD = -0.34 bpm; 95%CI [-1.54, 0.86]; p = 0.58; I[2] = 0%). High heterogeneity of included studies was addressed with subgroup analyses. The risk of bias in most studies was high. The certainty of evidence was very low for each outcome. Conclusions: COVID-19 infection in athletes was associated with reduced VO2max and VEmax. The relationships were highly dependent on the quality of the studies. CRF and athlete profile should be considered when making shared decisions regarding safe return to sport after infection.},
}

@article {pmid42452704,
year = {2026},
author = {Olarewaju, A and Adebowale, A and Odutola, P and Arnold, A},
title = {Use of Natriuretic Peptides in Critically Ill Patients: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {13},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15135244},
pmid = {42452704},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background: Natriuretic peptides, including B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), are established biomarkers of myocardial stress and circulatory overload. Although originally validated for diagnosis and exclusion of heart failure, their diagnostic and prognostic applications have expanded significantly in the context of critical illness. However, interpretation in critically ill patients is complicated by confounding factors such as systemic inflammation and renal dysfunction. Objective: This review synthesizes current evidence on the diagnostic, monitoring, and prognostic applications of natriuretic peptides in critically ill adults. It further outlines practical considerations, confounding variables, and emerging complementary biomarkers pertinent to clinical decision-making. Methods: A structured search of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library (January 2000 to October 2025) identified studies evaluating BNP, NT-proBNP, and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Eligible studies and review articles assessed diagnostic utility, volume status, hemodynamic monitoring, and prognostic performance. Narrative synthesis was employed using information obtained from eligible studies. Results: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. BNP and NT-proBNP facilitate differentiation between cardiogenic and noncardiogenic respiratory failure, identification of mixed shock states, and assessment of volume status when used in association with other modalities such as echocardiography and ultrasonography. Elevated natriuretic peptide concentrations consistently predict mortality, acute kidney injury, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and adverse outcomes in several disease states, including sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome [ARDS], postoperative cardiac dysfunction, and COVID-19-related critical illness. However, interpretation remains limited by confounders, including renal impairment, age, systemic inflammation, brain injury, mechanical ventilation, and right-ventricular strain/dysfunction. Conclusions: Natriuretic peptides serve as valuable adjuncts for diagnostic assessment, hemodynamic monitoring, and risk stratification in the ICU. When interpreted with attention to biological kinetics and clinical context, these biomarkers enhance multimodal monitoring and support individualized management. Future research should refine ICU-specific cutoffs and assess natriuretic peptide-guided therapeutic strategies in prospective multicenter trials.},
}

@article {pmid36754956,
year = {2023},
author = {Levy, ML and Bacharier, LB and Bateman, E and Boulet, LP and Brightling, C and Buhl, R and Brusselle, G and Cruz, AA and Drazen, JM and Duijts, L and Fleming, L and Inoue, H and Ko, FWS and Krishnan, JA and Mortimer, K and Pitrez, PM and Sheikh, A and Yorgancıoğlu, A and Reddel, HK},
title = {Key recommendations for primary care from the 2022 Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) update.},
journal = {NPJ primary care respiratory medicine},
volume = {33},
number = {1},
pages = {7},
pmid = {36754956},
issn = {2055-1010},
mesh = {Adult ; Child ; Adolescent ; Humans ; *Anti-Asthmatic Agents/therapeutic use ; *Asthma/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Formoterol Fumarate/therapeutic use ; Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; Administration, Inhalation ; Primary Health Care ; },
abstract = {The Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) was established in 1993 by the World Health Organization and the US National Heart Lung and Blood Institute to improve asthma awareness, prevention and management worldwide. GINA develops and publishes evidence-based, annually updated resources for clinicians. GINA guidance is adopted by national asthma guidelines in many countries, adapted to fit local healthcare systems, practices, and resource availability. GINA is independent of industry, funded by the sale and licensing of its materials. This review summarizes key practical guidance for primary care from the 2022 GINA strategy report. It provides guidance on confirming the diagnosis of asthma using spirometry or peak expiratory flow. GINA recommends that all adults, adolescents and most children with asthma should receive inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)-containing therapy to reduce the risk of severe exacerbations, either taken regularly, or (for adults and adolescents with "mild" asthma) as combination ICS-formoterol taken as needed for symptom relief. For patients with moderate-severe asthma, the preferred regimen is maintenance-and-reliever therapy (MART) with ICS-formoterol. Asthma treatment is not "one size fits all"; GINA recommends individualized assessment, adjustment, and review of treatment. As many patients with difficult-to-treat or severe asthma are not referred early for specialist review, we provide updated guidance for primary care on diagnosis, further investigation, optimization and treatment of severe asthma across secondary and tertiary care. While the GINA strategy has global relevance, we recognize that there are special considerations for its adoption in low- and middle-income countries, particularly the current poor access to inhaled medications.},
}

Adult
Child
Adolescent
Humans
*Anti-Asthmatic Agents/therapeutic use
*Asthma/diagnosis/drug therapy
Formoterol Fumarate/therapeutic use
Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use
Administration, Inhalation
Primary Health Care

@article {pmid36941668,
year = {2023},
author = {Bos, LDJ and de Grooth, HJ and Tuinman, PR},
title = {A structured diagnostic algorithm for patients with ARDS.},
journal = {Critical care (London, England)},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {94},
pmid = {36941668},
issn = {1466-609X},
mesh = {Humans ; Critical Care ; *Emergency Medicine ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/diagnosis ; Algorithms ; Intensive Care Units ; },
abstract = {This article is one of ten reviews selected from the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine 2023. Other selected articles can be found online at https://www.biomedcentral.com/collections/annualupdate2023 . Further information about the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine is available from https://link.springer.com/bookseries/8901 .},
}

Humans
Critical Care
*Emergency Medicine
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/diagnosis
Algorithms
Intensive Care Units

@article {pmid40708523,
year = {2026},
author = {Lewis, GK and Ciupe, S and Sajadi, M},
title = {Unveiling an Immunological Mystery: Deciphering the Durability Divide in Vaccine-Elicited Antibody Responses.},
journal = {Current HIV research},
volume = {23},
number = {6},
pages = {494-509},
pmid = {40708523},
issn = {1873-4251},
support = {R01 GM152743/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Plasma Cells/immunology ; *Antibody Formation/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Receptors, Complement 3d/immunology ; AIDS Vaccines/immunology ; Epitopes/immunology ; },
abstract = {Achieving durable antibody-mediated protection remains critical in vaccine development, particularly for viral diseases like COVID-19 and HIV. We discuss factors influencing antibody durability, highlighting the role of long-lived plasma cells (LLPCs) in the bone marrow, which are essential for sustained antibody production over many years. The frequencies and properties of bone marrow LLPC are critical determinants of the broad spectrum of antibody durability for different vaccines. Vaccines for diseases like measles and mumps elicit long-lasting antibodies; those for COVID-19 and HIV do not. High epitope densities in the vaccine are known to favor antibody durability, but we discuss three underappreciated variables that also play a role in long-lived antibody responses. First, in addition to high epitope densities, we discuss the importance of CD21 as a critical determinant of antibody durability. CD21 is a B cell antigen receptor (BCR) complex component. It significantly affects BCR signaling strength in a way essential for generating LLPC in the bone marrow. Second, all antibody-secreting cells (ASC) are not created equal. There is a four-log range of antibody secretion rates, and we propose epigenetic imprinting of different rates on ASC, including LLPC, as a factor in antibody durability. Third, antibody durability afforded by bone marrow LLPC is independent of continuous antigenic stimulation. By contrast, tissue-resident T-bet+CD21low ASC also persists in secondary lymphoid tissues and continuously produces antibodies depending on persisting antigen and the tissue microenvironment. We discuss these variables in the context of making an HIV vaccine that elicits broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV that persist at protective levels without continuous vaccination over many years.},
}

Humans
Plasma Cells/immunology
*Antibody Formation/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Animals
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Receptors, Complement 3d/immunology
AIDS Vaccines/immunology
Epitopes/immunology

@article {pmid41582574,
year = {2026},
author = {Chaudhary, V and Singh, AP and Sharma, H and Taumar, D},
title = {Advances in Fragment-based Drug Design: Lessons and Innovations from the Post-COVID Drug Discovery Landscape.},
journal = {Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {26},
number = {7},
pages = {497-509},
pmid = {41582574},
issn = {1875-5607},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Discovery/methods ; *Drug Design ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Artificial Intelligence ; COVID-19 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Fragment-based drug discovery (FBDD) has emerged as a transformative strategy in modern medicinal chemistry, offering a rational and efficient alternative to traditional highthroughput screening (HTS). By utilizing small, low-molecular-weight fragments with moderate binding affinity, FBDD enables systematic optimization into potent lead compounds with improved physicochemical properties. Its modular and ligand-centric nature has proven particularly advantageous in accelerating early-stage drug discovery. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the adaptability of FBDD, as fragment screening and computational modeling rapidly identified inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease (M[pro]). Integration with artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-based platforms further enhanced the speed and global accessibility of fragment campaigns, setting a precedent for collaborative, open-science initiatives. Beyond infectious diseases, FBDD has demonstrated significant promise in oncology, antibacterial therapy, and neurodegenerative disorders, reflecting its versatility across diverse therapeutic landscapes. Recent technological advances have expanded the scope of FBDD. High-resolution cryo-electron microscopy and AI-driven structural prediction now enable the exploration of previously inaccessible or dynamic protein targets. Emerging modalities, such as PROTACs and RNA-targeted therapeutics, also intersect with fragment-based strategies, opening avenues for addressing so-called "undruggable" proteins. Despite persistent challenges, including the need for sensitive biophysical methods and sophisticated infrastructure, the approach continues to evolve. Looking ahead, the convergence of FBDD with machine learning, open-access fragment libraries, and global research collaboration positions it as a scalable, adaptive platform for drug discovery. As future health threats demand rapid innovation, FBDD is poised to remain a cornerstone of both academic and industrial research pipelines.},
}

Humans
*Drug Discovery/methods
*Drug Design
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Artificial Intelligence
COVID-19
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology
Pandemics

@article {pmid41588957,
year = {2026},
author = {Vineeth, ES and Saha, S and Nishtala, VB},
title = {A Mini Review on Metal Complexes as Potential Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Agents: Insights from Molecular Docking Studies.},
journal = {Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {26},
number = {6},
pages = {399-411},
pmid = {41588957},
issn = {1875-5607},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Molecular Docking Simulation ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Coordination Complexes/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry ; },
abstract = {There is an urgent need to develop effective antiviral treatments against SARS-CoV-2. Despite the availability of vaccines, drug discovery remains critical for combating emerging variants. Molecular docking studies have become a vital computational tool for identifying antiviral drugs capable of inhibiting different SARS-CoV-2 proteins. This review explores the role of metal complexes as promising viral inhibitors through in silico molecular docking approaches. The binding abilities of several coordination complexes derived from iron, copper, palladium, and zinc ions have been evaluated against major viral proteins such as the spike glycoprotein, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), and the main protease (Mpro), which are responsible for viral infection. Comparative docking studies of specific metal-based compounds with conventional antiviral drugs highlight their superior binding affinities and inhibitory potential. Furthermore, ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) analyses, molecular dynamics simulations, and drugdelivery strategies are discussed to assess pharmacokinetics and therapeutic viability. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of molecular docking in the rational design of metal complexes as antiviral agents and its relevance for developing effective therapeutic strategies to combat COVID-19.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Molecular Docking Simulation
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Coordination Complexes/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry

@article {pmid41879458,
year = {2026},
author = {de Oliveira, GT and Ikegaki, ABKB and de Souza, ILI and Agostini, SBN and Marques, MBF and de Araujo, MB},
title = {Minoxidil as a Prodrug: Review of Chemical, Pharmacological, and Technological Aspects in Alopecia Therapeutics.},
journal = {Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {26},
number = {9},
pages = {623-631},
doi = {10.2174/0113895575433118260115212307},
pmid = {41879458},
issn = {1875-5607},
mesh = {Humans ; *Minoxidil/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics ; *Alopecia/drug therapy ; *Prodrugs/chemistry/therapeutic use/pharmacology/pharmacokinetics ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Alopecia is a prevalent condition that affects both sexes, characterised by miniaturisation of hair follicles and changes in the dynamics of the hair cycle, such as androgenetic alopecia associated with various systemic factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Minoxidil (base), initially developed as an oral antihypertensive, is currently used in the treatment of alopecia, acting as a prodrug that requires hepatic sulphation to generate its active metabolite, minoxidil sulphate. Topical formulations use minoxidil sulphate, the active pharmaceutical ingredient, directly on the hair follicles. Pharmacogenomic studies highlight the critical role of SULT1A1 enzyme variability in modulating treatment response, supporting personalised therapeutic strategies. Despite challenges related to low water solubility, high permeability, and narrow therapeutic index, emerging pharmaceutical technologies, including minitablets, orodispersible forms, sublingual preparations, and modified release systems, offer the potential to optimise absorption, increase dosing accuracy, and reduce adverse effects. This review consolidates current knowledge on the chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacogenomics, and technological aspects of minoxidil (base) for systemic use, emphasising translational developments that may redefine its clinical applications and contribute to safer and more standardised therapies. The integration of medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical technology, clinical pharmacology, and regulatory guidance is expected to promote oral minoxidil as a reliable, effective, and patient-centred therapeutic option for alopecia.},
}

Humans
*Minoxidil/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics
*Alopecia/drug therapy
*Prodrugs/chemistry/therapeutic use/pharmacology/pharmacokinetics
Animals

@article {pmid41897014,
year = {2026},
author = {Berg, A and Richter, C and Meyer, G},
title = {Internationally studied parameters related to the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes: a scoping review.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41897014},
issn = {2046-4053},
mesh = {*Nursing Homes/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Nursing Home Residents ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nursing homes were severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Standardised parameters are essential to understand and monitor the unintended consequences of pandemic control measures and changes in work processes. In this scoping review, we aimed to identify COVID-19-related parameters studied in nursing homes that could form a minimum data set suitable for database development. We focused on the perspectives of all interest-holders: facilities, residents, their relatives and nursing home staff.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE and CINAHL and included quantitative studies published in English since the beginning of the pandemic (2020 to 2024). The extracted parameters were initially categorised according to five dimensions: pandemic-related data, facility level, staff level, residents and relatives. Within each dimension, the original terms were compared and inductively organised into (sub-)categories based on conceptual similarities, with synonymous terms subsequently standardised.

RESULTS: From 82 included articles, 96 different parameters related to COVID-19 in nursing homes were identified. Infection and mortality rates emerged as the pandemic-related data most often reported, particularly within this dimension but also across all dimensions. However, we found a broad range of resident-related parameters. Our most often identified facility-related parameters include the number of staff and the provision of personal protective equipment. Staff-related parameters most often studied were personal burden and stress. Only a few parameters (n = 9) were considered for relatives.

CONCLUSIONS: The diversity of the reported parameters indicates that a comprehensive database is required to adequately assess a pandemic situation in this vulnerable population. In terms of pandemic preparedness, our overview of the reported parameters offers a basis for the development of country- and context-specific data capture approaches.},
}

*Nursing Homes/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Nursing Home Residents

@article {pmid41914684,
year = {2026},
author = {Brüssow, H},
title = {Antivirals Targeting Coronavirus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase and Main Protease: From Mechanisms of Action to Outcomes in COVID-19 Clinical Trials.},
journal = {Microbial biotechnology},
volume = {19},
number = {4},
pages = {e70342},
pmid = {41914684},
issn = {1751-7915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/enzymology ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; COVID-19 ; Animals ; *Coronavirus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase/antagonists & inhibitors ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Betacoronavirus/drug effects/enzymology ; Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology ; *Viral Nonstructural Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors ; Proline/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; Cytidine/analogs & derivatives ; Hydroxylamines ; },
abstract = {The rapid global spread of SARS-CoV-2 triggered an unprecedented effort to develop effective antivirals. Among the first approved agents was remdesivir, an injectable nucleoside analogue developed by Gilead Sciences, that led to chain termination of viral RNA synthesis and showed broad antiviral activity against RNA viruses. Early clinical results were mixed: The US ACTT-1 trial reported an accelerated recovery and reduced mortality in treated patients, while the WHO Solidarity and a European trial revealed no impact of remdesivir on mortality. In contrast, a US trial in outpatients demonstrated a clear clinical benefit when treatment was administered early. Molnupiravir, an orally applicable nucleoside analogue developed by Merck, induces lethal mutations in the viral genome rather than chain termination. Molnupiravir showed in vivo antiviral activity against coronaviruses in different animals. In MOVe-OUT trials, molnupiravir reduced the rate of hospitalisation in treated outpatients. In the PANORAMIC trial, molnupiravir reduced the time to recovery in outpatients but not their rate of hospitalisation. No drug effect of molnupiravir was seen in the RECOVERY trial with hospitalised COVID-19 patients. Using structural biology and medicinal chemistry approaches, Pfizer developed nirmatrelvir, an oral inhibitor of the major coronavirus protease. In high-risk but not in standard-risk COVID-19 patients, the combination nirmatrelvir/ritonavir reduced the rate of hospitalisation (EPIC HR and SR trials). Retrospective cohort studies showed treatment effects in defined patient groups. This review compares the efficacy and clinical performance of different antivirals, including emerging drugs such as obeldesivir and alternative protease inhibitors (lopinavir, simnotrelvir). It further examines their roles in prophylaxis, treatment of long covid symptoms, pharmacological considerations and antiviral resistance. Particular attention is given to factors underlying variable outcome of the trials, including viral variant evolution, population immunity increases, disease severity changes and timing of therapy initiation.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/enzymology
Clinical Trials as Topic
COVID-19
Animals
*Coronavirus RNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase/antagonists & inhibitors
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Betacoronavirus/drug effects/enzymology
Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology
*Viral Nonstructural Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
Proline/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Treatment Outcome
Cytidine/analogs & derivatives
Hydroxylamines

@article {pmid41920064,
year = {2026},
author = {Splane, J and Hotta, TA and Lillington, S and Ulhman, M and Ippoliti, M and Castaneda, R},
title = {Canadian Clinical Practice Recommendations for Preventing Infections in Aesthetic Medicine.},
journal = {Plastic and aesthetic nursing},
volume = {46},
number = {2},
pages = {101-113},
pmid = {41920064},
issn = {2770-3517},
mesh = {Humans ; Canada ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Infection Control/standards/methods ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; *Cross Infection/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical gaps in infection protection and control (IPC) protocols across health care settings, underscoring the urgent need for health care systems, organizations, and providers to prioritize robust safety standards to protect patient, provider, and public well-being. In aesthetic medicine-where demand for procedures continues to rise-maintaining stringent IPC practices is more important than ever. This article reviews fundamental IPC principles, current best-practices specific to aesthetic medicine, and facility-level recommendations in Canada. As IPC standards continue to evolve, their application within aesthetic settings remains essential to protecting patient, provider, and public health. Ongoing adaptation and improvement in response to emerging risks and rising procedural volumes are crucial to maintaining the integrity and safety of aesthetic practice.},
}

Humans
Canada
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Infection Control/standards/methods
*Practice Guidelines as Topic
*Cross Infection/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41922045,
year = {2026},
author = {Gupta, J and Pinjari, D and Aggarwal, Y and Kumar, D and Syal, K and Bhattacharyya, R and Banerjee, D},
title = {Vitamin D in health and disease and potential shield against COVID-19.},
journal = {Advances in clinical chemistry},
volume = {132},
number = {},
pages = {223-254},
doi = {10.1016/bs.acc.2025.12.001},
pmid = {41922045},
issn = {2162-9471},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamin D/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives/blood ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Dietary Supplements ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/prevention & control ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/prevention & control ; Betacoronavirus ; Vitamins/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Vitamin D acts as a micronutrient, hormone, and immunomodulator. While well known for supporting bone health and preventing rickets, researchers are now exploring its potential to help fight infection, including COVID-19. Certain laboratory studies and observational research suggest that vitamin D supplementation may lower the risk of developing serious illnesses. Unfortunately, clinical studies have generated mixed results. This gap between laboratory findings and real-world outcomes highlights the need for high-quality research in the field. Another promising domain is the utilization of vitamin D analogs that can provide similar or even better benefits than native vitamin D, but with fewer side effects. Additionally, the standardization of vitamin D measurement from biologic samples in clinical and research laboratories must be improved to successfully manage individual patients and clinical research. All these aspects are dealt with in detail in this chapter.},
}

Humans
*Vitamin D/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives/blood
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Dietary Supplements
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/prevention & control
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/prevention & control
Betacoronavirus
Vitamins/therapeutic use
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid41924267,
year = {2026},
author = {Ohta, E and Okada, E and Sawada, Y},
title = {Pustular psoriasis flare following COVID-19 infection: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1740000},
pmid = {41924267},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications/immunology ; *Psoriasis/drug therapy/pathology/immunology/etiology ; Middle Aged ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare, potentially life-threatening inflammatory disease characterized by neutrophilic pustules and systemic inflammation. We report a case of severe GPP triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection in a 46-year-old woman with a long history of psoriasis. Eleven days after recovery from COVID-19 pneumonia, she developed widespread pustules and fever. Histopathology revealed subcorneal spongiform pustules and dermal neutrophilic infiltration consistent with GPP. Systemic corticosteroids followed by etretinate and deucravacitinib achieved complete remission. A literature review identified 11 infection- and 10 vaccine-related GPP cases. Compared with vaccine-associated cases, infection-related flares showed longer latency and higher corticosteroid use. Mechanistically, both SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination may be associated with IL-36 axis activation, potentially via spike protein-driven, Toll-like receptor-mediated innate immune signaling. This case highlights that distinct immune kinetics may underlie infection- and vaccine-related GPP, while supporting a putative role of IL-36-driven inflammation in COVID-19-associated disease exacerbation.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19/complications/immunology
*Psoriasis/drug therapy/pathology/immunology/etiology
Middle Aged
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid41933448,
year = {2026},
author = {Medina, YF and Rodríguez Grande, EI and Galindo, JL and Vargas Pinilla, OC and Soler, F and Espitia, GV},
title = {Non-pharmacological rehabilitation strategies for pulmonary and physical recovery in ICU survivors after COVID-19: A systematic review.},
journal = {Chronic respiratory disease},
volume = {23},
number = {},
pages = {14799731261439941},
pmid = {41933448},
issn = {1479-9731},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/rehabilitation/complications/physiopathology ; Survivors ; Intensive Care Units ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Recovery of Function ; Critical Care/methods ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BackgroundSurvivors of severe COVID-19 requiring intensive care frequently experience persistent pulmonary and functional impairment consistent with post-critical illness sequelae. The effectiveness of non-pharmacological rehabilitation in this severity-specific subgroup remains uncertain.MethodsA systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Epistemonikos, LILACS, and Google Scholar were searched for randomized and observational studies evaluating non-pharmacological rehabilitation in adult ICU survivors of COVID-19. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and ROBINS-I tools. Given substantial clinical and methodological heterogeneity, quantitative meta-analysis was not performed; a structured narrative synthesis was undertaken.ResultsFourteen studies met inclusion criteria. Five incorporated comparator groups, while nine employed uncontrolled pre-post designs. Interventions ranged from early ICU mobilization to inpatient and outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation. Controlled studies reported variable between-group benefits in dyspnea and functional outcomes, whereas observational studies consistently described within-group improvement over time. However, most studies were at moderate to serious risk of bias, and heterogeneity in intervention timing, dosage, and outcome assessment limited comparability.ConclusionsNon-pharmacological rehabilitation in ICU survivors of COVID-19 is associated with improvement over time; however, the certainty of causal effectiveness remains low. ICU survivors constitute a distinct recovery population within the broader post-COVID spectrum. Adequately powered, multicenter randomized trials with standardized protocols and harmonized outcomes are required to establish long-term effectiveness.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/rehabilitation/complications/physiopathology
Survivors
Intensive Care Units
SARS-CoV-2
Recovery of Function
Critical Care/methods
Pandemics

@article {pmid41934674,
year = {2026},
author = {Gillini, L and Sevilla-Hernández, C and Cavaleri, M},
title = {COVID-19 and its short- and long-term effects on the operations of the EMA: fostering innovation in the EU during and beyond time of crisis.},
journal = {European journal of public health},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41934674},
issn = {1464-360X},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; European Union ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/drug therapy ; *Government Agencies/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {The European Medicines Agency (EMA) played a crucial role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by implementing various innovations that facilitated the development and approval of vaccines and treatments. This article analyses some of those innovations on the agency's operations through literature on innovation in the public sector using a literature review, publications on EU policy along with internal knowledge by the authors. The agency's innovative approaches such as the establishment of the COVID-19 Emergency Task Force and the effective use of real-world evidence enabled the agency to provide rapid advice to developers and ensure the provision of scientific feedback to the authorities and the public during crisis. The changes implemented led to new legislation allowing long-term effects within the agency. The EMA has emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic strengthened by innovative approaches leading to new legislation enabling an expanded mandate of the agency. To sustain innovation at the EMA, the agency might have to consider a structured and comprehensive approach to innovation, including the importance of fostering an innovation culture within the organization.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
European Union
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/drug therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/drug therapy
*Government Agencies/organization & administration

@article {pmid42445051,
year = {2026},
author = {Balcha, WF and Kassahun, EA and Nega, AT and Abie, A and Demsie, DG and Negesse, CT and Feyisa, K and Mekonnen, BA and Biadigilign, TM and Addisu, ZD and Ayenew, W and Siraj, EA and Zewdie, S and Anagaw, YK and Alene, GM and Yismaw, MB and Yehualaw, A and Kebede, SY and Mihiretie, EA and Awoke, AM and Bante, SA and Tesfu, AA and Sendeku, FW and Demissie, BA and Shiferaw, WG and Megule, SM and Abebe, YM and Tessema, LW and Chekole, FA},
title = {Labor Pain Management Practices and Associated Factors Among Licensed Obstetric Care Providers in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {9},
number = {7},
pages = {e72770},
pmid = {42445051},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Labor pain is a multidimensional experience influenced by emotional, cognitive, and cultural factors. It can be managed using pharmacological, non-pharmacological, or combined approaches. Licensed obstetric care providers (OCPs) are ethically obligated to ensure maternal comfort while safeguarding fetal safety. Evidence on labor pain management practices (LPMP) in Ethiopia remains inconsistent, as prior studies often included students or had unclear inclusion criteria. This systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the pooled prevalence of LPMP among licensed OCPs, identified associated factors, and examined trends before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: We searched major databases and repositories for studies published between January 1, 2018 and October 3, 2025. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist and modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, with inter-rater reliability analyses. Meta-analysis was conducted in STATA 17 using random or fixed-effects models. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran's Q test and quantified with I[2] statistic. Certainty of evidence rated using GRADE.

RESULTS: Twenty studies involving 7,202 participants were included. LPMP prevalence varied substantially across studies and settings. The pooled prevalence of overall LPMP was 46.9% (95% CI: 42.7-51.1; I[2] = 92.4%). Non-pharmacological practice was 42.8% (95% CI: 36.6-49.1), whereas pharmacological practice was 21.1% (95% CI: 12.5-29.7), decreasing to 15.2% after adjustment for publication bias. Pharmacological practice was modestly higher during COVID-19 (23.7% vs. 18.0%). Factors positively associated with LPMP included provider knowledge, attitudes, training, drug/protocol availability, supportive environments, higher education, longer experience, positive perceptions, being a midwife, and female sex. Certainty of evidence ranged from low to moderate.

CONCLUSION: LPMP prevalence varied considerably across studies and settings. While the pooled estimate suggests that fewer than half of Ethiopian OCPs practiced LPMP, substantial unexplained heterogeneity warrants cautious interpretation. Non-pharmacological methods were more commonly used than pharmacological approaches, highlighting opportunities to strengthen provider training, institutional support, and resource availability.},
}

@article {pmid42445255,
year = {2026},
author = {Jha, S and Chaliha, LB and Pandey, K and Patel, R},
title = {Reimagining tuberculosis elimination in India: diagnostics, drug resistance, and digital health strategies.},
journal = {Frontiers in epidemiology},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1868261},
pmid = {42445255},
issn = {2674-1199},
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global public health challenge and one of the leading infectious causes of mortality worldwide, with India contributing approximately 26% of the global TB burden. Despite substantial progress under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), India's efforts to achieve the ambitious 2025 TB elimination target continue to face major challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB), healthcare disparities, and limitations in surveillance and reporting systems. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology of TB in India and critically evaluates the impact of COVID-19, drug resistance, healthcare accessibility, and emerging diagnostic technologies on TB control efforts. A structured literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, along with reports from the World Health Organization and the Government of India. The reviewed evidence indicates that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted TB diagnosis, treatment, surveillance, and healthcare accessibility, leading to declines in case notification and the possible accumulation of undiagnosed TB cases. In addition, the increasing burden of MDR/RR-TB, fragmented private healthcare systems, underreporting, and unequal access to diagnostics and treatment continue to hinder progress toward TB elimination. Although advancements including molecular diagnostics, digital surveillance platforms such as Nikshay, AI-assisted screening, and patient-support programmes have strengthened TB control strategies, important challenges related to implementation, infrastructure, scalability, and antimicrobial stewardship remain unresolved. This review highlights the need for integrated and patient-centred TB control strategies that combine rapid diagnostics, strengthened surveillance, public-private healthcare integration, health systems strengthening, and interventions addressing broader socioeconomic determinants such as poverty, malnutrition, and healthcare inequity. Coordinated multisectoral approaches will be essential for accelerating TB elimination efforts in India in the post-COVID era.},
}

@article {pmid42446912,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, N and Yan, Y and Li, Y and Ni, J and Gao, J and Piao, X and Hou, X},
title = {The effect of high-dose of vitamin C on mortality among aged patients with severe COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Clinical and investigative medicine. Medecine clinique et experimentale},
volume = {49},
number = {2},
pages = {31-42},
doi = {10.3138/CIM-2024-0302},
pmid = {42446912},
issn = {1488-2353},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/mortality ; Aged ; Critical Illness/mortality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Critically ill patients are frequently deficient in vitamin C. Given the significant mortality rates in the elderly population associated with COVID-19, we aimed to systematically review the literature and evaluate whether high-dose vitamin C can reduce COVID-19 mortality in this population.

METHODS: Multiple data sources (PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and medRxiv) were searched using the keywords "COVID-19" AND "vitamin C" up to November 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving COVID-19 patients with relevant data were collected. We used a random or fixed effects meta-analysis to calculate the pooling effect.

RESULTS: Eight RCTs comprising 2,104 patients were ultimately included in the meta-analysis. The pooling effect (odds ratio [OR] 0.97[95% CI 0.80-1.18, P = 0.76) suggested no significant difference in mortality rates between patients treated with high-dose vitamin C and those who were not.

CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin C supplementation might reduce the risk of COVID-19 mortality in critically ill patients; however, this effect varied by study. Additional research is necessary to arrive at a definitive conclusion on this subject.},
}

Humans
*Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/mortality
Aged
Critical Illness/mortality
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid42447883,
year = {2026},
author = {Naidoo, T and Morgenstern, C and Doohan, P and Earl, R and Rawson, T and Sheppard, RJ and Hicks, JT and Radhakrishnan, S and Johnson, R and Hartner, AM and Cattarino, L and McCain, K and Vicco, A and Imai-Eaton, N and Elsland, SV and Cori, A and McCabe, R and Bhatia, S and , },
title = {A systematic review of Nipah virus disease epidemiological parameters, outbreaks, and mathematical models.},
journal = {The Lancet. Infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/S1473-3099(26)00239-2},
pmid = {42447883},
issn = {1474-4457},
abstract = {Our systematic review, based on PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO CRD42023393345), characterised the epidemiology, outbreaks, and mathematical models of Nipah virus, an important public health threat in south and southeast Asia. We searched PubMed and Web of Science from database inception to March 14, 2025, and extracted 243 parameters, 89 risk factors, 39 models, and 23 distinct outbreaks from 119 papers. IgG seroprevalence estimates in the general population ranged from 0% to 12·5%. Nipah virus causes severe disease, with pooled case-fatality ratio estimates ranging widely from 9·1% (95% CI 0·2-41·3) in Singapore to 81·9% (95% CI 71·9-88·9) in Bangladesh. The infection timeline and clinical course of Nipah virus remain poorly characterised; we estimated a median incubation period of 8·77 days (165, 95% CI 7·53-10·02) from eight estimates in seven articles with sufficient information. Transmission parameter estimates were scarce, and all but one of five central estimates of the basic reproduction number were less than one. Nipah virus mathematical models (39) were rarely fitted to data (eight). All extracted information is accessible via our R package, epireview.},
}