@article {pmid41232562,
year = {2026},
author = {Noone, D and Preston, RJS and Leon, G},
title = {Adaptive Immunity in Immunothrombosis.},
journal = {Seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis},
volume = {52},
number = {6},
pages = {667-682},
doi = {10.1055/a-2722-7189},
pmid = {41232562},
issn = {1098-9064},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adaptive Immunity/immunology ; *Thrombosis/immunology/blood ; COVID-19/immunology/blood ; *Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/blood ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Thrombosis is a comorbidity associated with autoimmune, allergic, and infectious conditions; however, the mechanistic basis for this elevated risk is poorly understood. The simultaneous activation of the immune and coagulation systems to assist in response to injury and efficient pathogen clearance, termed immunothrombosis, is typically described as a bidirectional interaction between the innate immune and coagulation systems. More recently, however, data have emerged highlighting the involvement of adaptive immune cells in this process. In this review, we discuss the role of adaptive immune cells in clot formation and resolution, and explore how the adaptive immune system modulates procoagulant activity in autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, systemic lupus erythematosus, and graft versus host disease; allergic disorders, such as dermatitis and asthma; infectious diseases, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); and ischemic conditions such as myocardial infarction and stroke.},
}

Humans
*Adaptive Immunity/immunology
*Thrombosis/immunology/blood
COVID-19/immunology/blood
*Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/blood
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid42485161,
year = {2026},
author = {Camilleri, M},
title = {Gastroparesis: A Review.},
journal = {JAMA},
volume = {336},
number = {7},
pages = {587-602},
doi = {10.1001/jama.2026.12181},
pmid = {42485161},
issn = {1538-3598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastroparesis/etiology/therapy/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Male ; Female ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Gastroparesis is a condition of delayed gastric emptying in the absence of gastric outlet obstruction. Based on a 2018 US administrative health insurance claims database study, prevalence of definite gastroparesis (with documented delayed gastric emptying) was 21.5 per 100 000 persons.

OBSERVATIONS: Gastroparesis, which is caused by reduced contractions of the distal stomach or abnormal pyloric relaxation, is more common among females than males (ratio, 2:1-4:1) and typically causes nausea, vomiting, early satiety, bloating, and abdominal pain or discomfort. In a large US epidemiological study involving 82.6 million patients, the most common causes of gastroparesis were type 2 diabetes (51.7%), postsurgical effects (15%), medication-induced (11.8%), idiopathic (11.3%), type 1 diabetes (5.7%), and other (4.5%). Other risk factors include neurological disorders (eg, Parkinson disease), hypothyroidism, amyloidosis, connective tissue disorders (eg, scleroderma), and viral infections (eg, norovirus, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, SARS-CoV-2). The 2022 American College of Gastroenterology and the 2025 American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) guidelines define the criterion standard diagnostic test for gastroparesis as gastric emptying scintigraphy with more than 10% gastric retention at 4 hours in patients with symptoms of gastroparesis without mechanical obstruction based on upper endoscopy or abdominal imaging such as computed tomographic (CT) scan. The carbon 13 spirulina stable isotope breath test is also approved for diagnosing gastroparesis by the US Food and Drug Administration. Based on the percentage of gastric retention at 4 hours, gastroparesis is categorized in the 2022 AGA clinical practice update as mild (10%-15%), moderate (16%-35%), or severe (>35%). Treatment includes discontinuation of medications that delay gastric emptying such as opioids, cannabis, anticholinergics, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and for patients with diabetes, optimizing glycemic control. First-line therapies according to the AGA 2022 clinical practice update are a small particle diet (food that is blended or chopped into small pieces) that is low in fat and nondigestible fiber and antiemetics (eg, serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine 3 [5-HT3] receptor antagonists, histamine H1 receptor antagonists) for mild gastroparesis; antiemetics and prokinetics (metoclopramide, erythromycin) for moderate gastroparesis, and liquid diet or jejunal enteral feeding for severe gastroparesis. Severe refractory gastroparesis may be treated with gastric peroral endoscopic myotomy (G-POEM), which involves endoscopic-guided incision of the pylorus sphincter muscle, or gastric electrical simulation, in which an implanted neurostimulator sends electrical pulses to the stomach muscle.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Gastroparesis is a condition of delayed gastric emptying without gastric outlet obstruction that is diagnosed based on a gastric emptying study. First-line treatments include a small particle diet and antiemetics and prokinetics. Severe refractory gastroparesis may be treated with procedures such as G-POEM or gastric electrical simulation.},
}

Humans
*Gastroparesis/etiology/therapy/diagnosis/epidemiology
Male
Female
Risk Factors
Prevalence

@article {pmid42604060,
year = {2026},
author = {Wells, CR and Pandey, A and Bawden, C and Ye, Y and Bilori, B and Potter-Schwartz, L and Ayaz, L and Moghadas, SM and Townsend, JP and Fitzpatrick, MC and Galvani, AP},
title = {Projected lives saved and economic value of mRNA cancer immunotherapies in the United States.},
journal = {Lancet regional health. Americas},
volume = {62},
number = {},
pages = {101596},
pmid = {42604060},
issn = {2667-193X},
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology helped prevent millions of deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic and is emerging as a promising cancer treatment modality. Early-phase trials suggest mRNA immunotherapies can improve overall and recurrence-free survival. However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has terminated investment in this transformative platform. Although the funding cuts target infectious-disease vaccines, they could also slow broader research across the platform, with implications for cancer applications. To assess the potential public health and economic value of mRNA immunotherapies as cancer treatments, we combined early clinical trial evidence with incidence- and demographic-adjusted survival estimates from the National Cancer Institute's SEER program to project outcomes for non-small cell lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, and metastatic melanoma. We then applied the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Value of a Statistical Life Year ($604,246; 3% discount rate) to quantify the economic value associated with survival gains. Among U.S. patients diagnosed with these cancers in a single year, mRNA immunotherapies could avert an estimated 49,415 (95% CrI: 28,233-71,085) deaths. The corresponding economic value is estimated at $75.55 (95% CrI: $44.20-$103.43) billion, substantially exceeding the funding cut and highlighting the long-term value of continued innovation in mRNA-based therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid42604281,
year = {2026},
author = {Ajmani, TS and Pareek, S and Padmavathy, K and Upadhayay, P and Patel, D and Mukherjee, B},
title = {Bridging the Digital Prevention Gap: A Systematic Literature Review of Digital Health Literacy and Preventive Health Behaviors in Low-Income Communities.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e112767},
pmid = {42604281},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Digital health literacy is increasingly central to preventive healthcare, particularly in low-income and socioeconomically vulnerable communities where limited internet access, lower health literacy, and digital exclusion may restrict engagement with prevention services. Although digital health tools are expanding, evidence remains fragmented on how digital health literacy is associated with preventive behaviors in disadvantaged populations. This systematic literature review examined the association between digital health literacy and preventive health behaviors, including COVID-19 prevention, vaccination intention, online health information seeking, screening-related decision support, and chronic disease self-management. A structured search of electronic databases was conducted using terms related to digital health literacy, eHealth literacy, preventive health behavior, socioeconomic vulnerability, and the digital divide. Eligible primary studies assessed digital or eHealth literacy or online health information-related skills and reported prevention-related outcomes. One measurement-support study was retained only to contextualize the digital health literacy assessment and was not included in the preventive outcome synthesis. Findings were synthesized narratively because of heterogeneity in study design, populations, measures, and outcomes. Higher digital health literacy was generally associated with better prevention-related outcomes, especially COVID-19 preventive behaviors, vaccination intention, and online health information use. Education, income, internet access, computer literacy, employment, and general health literacy repeatedly influenced digital health literacy. The evidence also suggested that vulnerable users can benefit from digital prevention tools when interventions include accessible design, low-literacy content, privacy safeguards, and user support. The digital prevention gap is multidimensional, reflecting both individual skill differences and structural barriers. Strengthening digital health literacy should be treated as a core strategy for equitable prevention, not merely as a technology-access issue.},
}

@article {pmid42606181,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, Y and Ying, Z and Kondo, A},
title = {Burnout Levels and Associated Factors Among Newly Graduated Nurses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of nursing management},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {e4994782},
pmid = {42606181},
issn = {1365-2834},
support = {//International Nursing Development's field cost of the Institute of Science, Tokyo/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; *Nurses/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Prevalence ; Emotional Exhaustion ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Workplace/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The transition into the workplace exposes newly graduated nurses to significant stressors and challenges that enhance their vulnerability to burnout. However, evidence on the level of burnout and its related factors in newly graduated nurses remains limited.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence and severity of burnout among newly graduated nurses, identify its associated factors, and examine differences across geographic regions and before versus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Japan Medical Abstracts Society, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases was performed from inception to July 2024. Pooled mean scores for three subscales of the 22-item Maslach Burnout Inventory were calculated using R software (Version 4.4.1) to assess burnout levels. Publication bias tests, sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analyses were performed. Burnout prevalence and associated factors were summarized using narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: Forty-five studies involving 18,203 newly graduated nurses were included. The reported rates of high-level burnout ranged widely from 1.0% to 78.3%. The pooled mean scores were 28.39 (95% CI: 26.17-30.61) for Emotional Exhaustion, 11.48 (95% CI: 9.40-13.55) for Depersonalization, and 24.99 (95% CI: 21.22-28.76) for Personal Accomplishment. Subgroup analyses showed that newly graduated nurses in Asia had higher depersonalization (12.48 vs. 8.24) and lower personal accomplishment scores (22.34 vs. 32.99) than non-Asian counterparts (both p < 0.01). Factors associated with burnout included personal traits and competencies (such as coping strategies and psychological capital), work-related factors (such as work environment and workplace bullying and incivility), and other factors such as social support; however, evidence regarding sociodemographic factors was mixed.

CONCLUSIONS: Newly graduated nurses experienced severe burnout, especially in Asia. Factors related to burnout among newly graduated nurses are multifaceted, highlighting the need for nursing managers to prioritize targeted strategies to facilitate their transition to professional roles. Structured orientation, effective preceptorship, supportive work environments, and accessible psychological support may help reduce burnout among newly graduated nurses.},
}

Humans
*Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology
*Nurses/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Prevalence
Emotional Exhaustion
COVID-19/epidemiology
Workplace/psychology

@article {pmid42606349,
year = {2026},
author = {Teng, F and Li, X and Zhao, H and Ma, Y and Wang, Y and Chen, M and Wu, W and Xiao, T and Wei, Y and Gao, S and Li, X and Zhu, C and Li, G and Jiang, Y and Li, J and Cui, W and Qiao, X},
title = {Epidemiological characteristics and structural-functional implications of spike protein variations in a bovine coronavirus isolate from diarrheic calves.},
journal = {Virulence},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2712736},
doi = {10.1080/21505594.2026.2712736},
pmid = {42606349},
issn = {2150-5608},
mesh = {Animals ; *Coronavirus, Bovine/genetics/isolation & purification/chemistry ; Cattle ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/chemistry/metabolism ; *Cattle Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/epidemiology/virology ; *Diarrhea/veterinary/virology/epidemiology ; Phylogeny ; China/epidemiology ; Genome, Viral ; Feces/virology ; },
abstract = {Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) is an important pathogen associated with enteric disease in calves, contributing to significant economic losses worldwide. To provide an updated overview of BCoV epidemiology, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published up to October 2025. Seventy-two eligible studies comprising 29,045 samples from nine countries were included, yielding a pooled global prevalence of 20.39% (95% CI: 15.07-26.99). Substantial heterogeneity was observed, reflecting variations in geographic regions, detection methods, and study populations. To complement the epidemiological analysis, 298 fecal samples from diarrheic calves in northeastern China were screened by RT-PCR, identifying 36 BCoV-positive samples (12.08%). Co-infection analysis revealed that most positive samples contained additional enteric viruses, indicating complex viral interactions in calf diarrhea. A novel BCoV strain was isolated in MDBK cells and designated DDFX98. Viral identity was confirmed by PCR, transmission electron microscopy, and immunofluorescence assay. Complete genome sequencing demonstrated that DDFX98 belongs to the GIIb subtype and shares high nucleotide identity with contemporary circulating strains. Comparative analysis of the spike (S) protein revealed multiple amino acid substitutions predominantly located within the S1 subunit. Structural modeling suggested localized conformational variations, particularly in surface-exposed and flexible regions, while preserving the overall spike architecture. In silico predictions further indicated minor alterations in glycosylation potential and epitope-associated regions. Collectively, this study integrates global epidemiological evidence with molecular and structural characterization of a contemporary BCoV isolate, providing insights into S protein variability and its potential structural - functional implications.},
}

Animals
*Coronavirus, Bovine/genetics/isolation & purification/chemistry
Cattle
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/chemistry/metabolism
*Cattle Diseases/virology/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/epidemiology/virology
*Diarrhea/veterinary/virology/epidemiology
Phylogeny
China/epidemiology
Genome, Viral
Feces/virology

@article {pmid42606512,
year = {2026},
author = {Green, EW},
title = {Hepatitis Overview: Alcohol-Associated Liver Disease and Drug-Induced Liver Injury.},
journal = {FP essentials},
volume = {566},
number = {},
pages = {25-36},
pmid = {42606512},
issn = {2159-3000},
mesh = {Humans ; *Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology/therapy ; *Hepatitis, Alcoholic/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy ; Liver Transplantation ; United States/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Alcohol-associated liver disease is the leading cause of cirrhosis in the United States and has become the top indication for liver transplantation since direct-acting antivirals allowed for cure of hepatitis C. The COVID-19 pandemic compounded existing concerns about a rising prevalence of alcohol-associated hepatitis, with a notable increase in women in their 30s and 40s. Insufficient access to health care continues to exacerbate socioeconomic disparities in screening and treatment. People identifying as American Indian or Alaska Native have had the greatest increase in mortality due to alcohol-associated liver disease. Alcohol use screening is essential for all adults. Abstinence from alcohol remains the cornerstone intervention for alcohol-associated liver disease, although pharmacotherapies are under evaluation. Noninvasive liver disease assessment, including serum and imaging modalities, is expanding access to advanced liver disease evaluation in primary care settings. Other causes of substance-based liver injury include prescription and nonprescription medications, herbal products, and dietary supplements.},
}

Humans
*Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology/therapy
*Hepatitis, Alcoholic/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/diagnosis/epidemiology/therapy
Liver Transplantation
United States/epidemiology

@article {pmid42607899,
year = {2026},
author = {Mehra, S and Phadnis, S and Ravi Kumar, YS and Singh, A and Verma, B},
title = {Epitranscriptomic regulation of host-virus interactions.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Molecular basis of disease},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {168423},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbadis.2026.168423},
pmid = {42607899},
issn = {1879-260X},
abstract = {RNA chemical modifications, collectively termed the epitranscriptome, are now recognized as critical regulators of gene expression that influence host antiviral responses. These modifications are frequently co-opted by both RNA and DNA viruses to enhance their replication and evade immune detection. This review explores key RNA modifications, principal modifying enzymes, emphasizing how these modifications regulate mRNA stability, translation, and innate immune recognition of both host and viral RNAs. Furthermore, this review examines how viruses, including DENV, SARS-CoV-2, HIV-1, HCV, RSV, and HSV, manipulate host RNA modification systems. Overall, this review highlights the epitranscriptome as a dynamic interface in host-virus interactions and underscores its potential as a target for antiviral therapeutic development.},
}

@article {pmid42608690,
year = {2026},
author = {Aktner, I and Forsman, H and Straatmann, VS},
title = {The COVID-19 pandemic's impact on psychotropic medication prescriptions for children and adolescents: a scoping review of quantitative longitudinal studies.},
journal = {Annals of general psychiatry},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42608690},
issn = {1744-859X},
abstract = {Global evidence shows a deterioration in the mental health of children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising questions about how mental health care, including psychotropic medication prescriptions, has adapted. However, it remains unclear how this deterioration affected prescription trends. This scoping review examined quantitative longitudinal studies comparing psychotropic drug prescriptions before and during the pandemic. A search of five databases, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO, yielded 14 studies from 11 OECD countries (Austria, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Israel, Italy, the United States, Portugal, Sweden, Norway, and New Zealand). Included studies were quantitative, longitudinal, in English, and focused on individuals aged 0-19. Most used national health registers or clinical data covering pre-pandemic (2013-2019) and pandemic years (2020-2022). Six studies focused exclusively on adolescents (10-19 or 12-18 years), while others included larger age ranges (0-17/18/19 years). Ten studies reported increases in antidepressant and antipsychotic prescriptions during the pandemic, with two showing initial declines followed by rises; four reported overall decreases. Notable gender and age differences emerged, with girls showing the largest rise in antidepressant use and adolescents exhibiting higher usage than younger children. Stimulant prescription trends varied across countries. Socioeconomic disparities and national policy responses, including school closures and healthcare access, also influenced prescribing patterns. Two studies found higher prescription rates among children from more advantaged backgrounds. Twelve studies focused on the early pandemic period, limiting time generalisability, while only two extended into 2022. This review highlights the need for enhanced monitoring and extended longitudinal research to assess the long-term impact of crises like COVID-19 on youth mental health care. It also emphasises the importance of health system preparedness for managing psychiatric treatment in future public health emergencies. Although an overall shift in psychotropic prescribing among children and adolescents is suggested, the limited number of studies and short follow-up periods restrict conclusions about long-term trends.},
}

@article {pmid42609149,
year = {2026},
author = {Nakane, S},
title = {[Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy].},
journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo},
volume = {78},
number = {8},
pages = {905-912},
doi = {10.11477/mf.188160960780080905},
pmid = {42609149},
issn = {1881-6096},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ganglia, Autonomic/immunology ; Autoantibodies/blood ; Receptors, Nicotinic/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology/complications ; Immunotherapy/adverse effects ; *Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/therapy ; *Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System/immunology/therapy ; *Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/immunology/therapy ; },
abstract = {Autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy (AAG) is a peripheral neuropathy caused by immune-mediated synaptic transmission dysfunction in autonomic ganglia. Autoantibodies against the nicotinic ganglionic acetylcholine receptor (gAChR) have been detected in the sera of patients with AAG, and gAChR antibodies are considered pathogenic autoantibodies in AAG. In this review, we discuss recent clinical and research developments in AAG, focusing on the following: (1)reports on the clinical features of AAG and immunotherapy; (2)the association between COVID-19, COVID-19 vaccination, and autonomic dysfunction; (3)autonomic dysfunction as an immune-related adverse effect of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment; and (4)new methods for measuring gAChR antibodies.},
}

Humans
*Ganglia, Autonomic/immunology
Autoantibodies/blood
Receptors, Nicotinic/immunology
COVID-19/immunology/complications
Immunotherapy/adverse effects
*Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/therapy
*Autoimmune Diseases of the Nervous System/immunology/therapy
*Autonomic Nervous System Diseases/immunology/therapy

@article {pmid42609807,
year = {2026},
author = {Casanova, G and Fattorini, G and Santini, S and Balietti, M and Barboni, I and Giacconi, R and Lamura, G},
title = {Loneliness among community-dwelling older adults across biological, clinical and psychosocial domains before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1831731},
pmid = {42609807},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Loneliness/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Aged ; *Independent Living/psychology ; Aged, 80 and over ; Female ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Loneliness is a subjective and distressing experience resulting from a discrepancy between desired and actual social relationships and represents an important public health concern among community-dwelling older adults. Although it can occur throughout the life course, older adults are particularly vulnerable because of age-related conditions such as multimorbidity, mobility limitations, sensory impairments, widowhood, and retirement. These factors highlight the need to understand loneliness as a multifactorial phenomenon requiring a multidimensional perspective considering biological, clinical, and psychosocial determinants and consequences.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic literature review aims to investigate the extent to which the available literature on loneliness in older age adopts a multidisciplinary approach.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: Multiple databases were searched and papers in biological, clinical and socio-psychological areas were selected according to predefined inclusion criteria and the PRISMA guidelines. Study characteristics (author, year of publication, methodology, and sample size) and contents (keywords, loneliness as primary or secondary outcome, multidisciplinary) were analysed.

RESULTS: One hundred thirty-one articles were selected: 22 biological; 51 clinical and 58 socio-psychological. Eighty-nine studies adopted quantitative methods, mostly concentrated in the biological area, while qualitative and mixed-method approaches are more common in the other two areas. In biological papers, loneliness is treated as an etiopathological factor or pathological condition, thus underestimating or denying its social significance. Clinical papers often associate loneliness with depression and socio-psychological ones do not investigate loneliness biological and clinical implications.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Although the COVID-19 was associated with a growing number of multidisciplinary studies, research on loneliness among older adults remains largely fragmented across disciplinary boundaries. Strengthening collaboration across biological, clinical, and psychosocial domains could contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of loneliness and support the development of more effective prevention and intervention strategies.},
}

Humans
*Loneliness/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Aged
*Independent Living/psychology
Aged, 80 and over
Female
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid42609898,
year = {2026},
author = {Delpino, MV and Quarleri, J},
title = {The effects of SARS-CoV-2 on bone homeostasis.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1897220},
pmid = {42609898},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Homeostasis ; Animals ; Osteoclasts/virology/metabolism ; *Bone Remodeling ; *Bone and Bones/virology/metabolism ; Osteoblasts/virology/metabolism ; Bone Resorption/virology ; },
abstract = {Accumulating evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 is associated with disruptions in skeletal homeostasis through both direct viral effects on bone-remodeling cells and indirect inflammatory mechanisms, contributing to bone loss and increased skeletal fragility. The maintenance of healthy bone structure depends on the coordinated activities of bone-resorbing osteoclasts and bone-forming osteoblasts. Recent studies demonstrate that differentiated human osteoblasts support productive SARS-CoV-2 infection, whereas MSC and osteoclast precursors undergo abortive infection. These interactions impair osteoblast differentiation, increase IL-6 and receptor activator of nuclear factor κB Ligand (RANKL) expression, and promote osteoclastogenesis, shifting bone remodeling toward pathological resorption. Additional virus-associated mediators, including Spike protein, ORF8, and miR-4485-3p, further amplify inflammatory and pro-osteoclastogenic signaling. Clinical studies report associations between acute and persistent reductions in bone mineral density, increased vertebral fracture prevalence, and alterations in musculoskeletal (MSK) imaging biomarkers associated with worse COVID-19 outcomes, while animal models confirm osteoclast-driven trabecular bone loss. This review integrates emerging evidence of productive and abortive SARS-CoV-2 infection of human bone cells with recent clinical and experimental findings, providing an updated osteoimmunological perspective on COVID-19-associated bone remodeling. Prospective longitudinal studies and clinical trials are needed to determine the long-term skeletal consequences of COVID-19 and evaluate targeted strategies to prevent infection-associated bone loss.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
*SARS-CoV-2
*Homeostasis
Animals
Osteoclasts/virology/metabolism
*Bone Remodeling
*Bone and Bones/virology/metabolism
Osteoblasts/virology/metabolism
Bone Resorption/virology

@article {pmid42610170,
year = {2026},
author = {Poodineh Moghadam, M and Nasiri, A and Mahmoudirad, G},
title = {The Challenges Experienced by Oncology Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Iranian journal of nursing and midwifery research},
volume = {31},
number = {4},
pages = {569-575},
pmid = {42610170},
issn = {1735-9066},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has introduced a range of obstacles for healthcare workers, including oncology nurses. These frontline workers have had to adjust to updated procedures and protocols while providing care for patients with cancer during times of increased stress and uncertainty. This systematic review aimed to examine the difficulties faced by oncology nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review was performed on the literature using databases, including Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed, to find related studies published between January 2019 and July 2024. The quality of the articles was evaluated using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tool.

RESULTS: This systematic review was performed in international databases, resulting in eight eligible studies. The studies highlighted several difficulties experienced by oncology nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, including heightened workload, lack of personal protective equipment, emotional distress, and challenges in communicating with patients and families.

CONCLUSIONS: This research revealed that oncology nurses faced numerous challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted their well-being and their ability to provide quality care for patients with cancer. Healthcare organizations should provide support and resources to help oncology nurses cope with these difficulties and continue to deliver high-quality care.},
}

@article {pmid41553607,
year = {2026},
author = {Orogun, D},
title = {Anti-COVID-19 Vaccine Narratives Among African and North American Neo-Pentecostals (Part 1): Evidence, Causes and Lessons.},
journal = {Journal of religion and health},
volume = {65},
number = {4},
pages = {3953-3977},
pmid = {41553607},
issn = {1573-6571},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; North America ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Narration ; Leadership ; Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; Africa ; },
abstract = {The gap in the worldview of spiritual leaders regarding public health and safety became apparent during the COVID-19 pandemic. It engendered narratives and health behaviors that led to the deaths of many. This interdisciplinary study examines the relationship between religious beliefs, practices, and health behavior. In two parts, this empirical research, through a literature review, secondary data analysis, and available narratives in academic and media spaces, deconstructs the activities of some African and North American Neo-Pentecostals during the pandemic. Part 1, presented here, provides evidence of the narratives and discusses the causes of misinformation and hesitancy. Part 2 addressed the public health implications, the ideal theological response, leadership gaps, and lessons learned. Three fundamental points are evident in both parts. The first is a poor "theology of medicine" in health crises. The second is the poor leadership approach to crisis management. The third is the long-term tension and a lack of synergy between health professionals, health policymakers, and spiritual leaders. The outcome of Part 1 revealed that the causes of anti-vaccination narratives are rooted in theological, social, and economic factors. Part 1 concludes with a summary of the lessons and an overview of what to expect in Part 2 of the exercise.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
North America
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
Narration
Leadership
Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
Africa

@article {pmid42603085,
year = {2026},
author = {Foti Randazzese, S and Barberi, S and Castagnoli, R and Catamerò, F and Cosmi, L and Guiducci, S and Lodi, L and Mori, F and Taietti, I and Manti, S and Giovannini, M},
title = {Exploring the potential benefits of allergen immunotherapy beyond respiratory allergy.},
journal = {Expert opinion on biological therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14712598.2026.2718367},
pmid = {42603085},
issn = {1744-7682},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease-modifying treatment for IgE-mediated allergic disorders, including allergic rhinitis and asthma, with established long-term clinical efficacy and immunological tolerance induction.

AREAS COVERED: This review synthesizes current evidence on the potential extra-allergic effects of AIT, focusing on respiratory tract infections (RTIs), SARS-CoV-2 outcomes, and selected immune-mediated conditions. AIT modulates key immunopathological pathways by promoting regulatory T and B cell responses, increasing allergen-specific IgG4, and rebalancing Th1/Th2 immunity. Emerging data suggest that these effects may extend beyond allergy control, with observational and limited clinical studies indicating reduced RTIs burden, decreased medication use, and enhanced antiviral responses, including improved interferon-mediated epithelial immunity. Preliminary findings also suggest an association between AIT and milder COVID-19 outcomes. Evidence regarding autoimmune conditions, such as alopecia areata, remains limited and largely anecdotal.

EXPERT OPINION: Although AIT demonstrates promising immunomodulatory properties beyond allergic disease, current evidence is heterogeneous and primarily observational, precluding causal inference. The broader clinical relevance of these effects remains to be established. Well-designed prospective studies integrating clinical and mechanistic endpoints are required to clarify the extent and clinical significance of AIT-induced systemic immune modulation.},
}

@article {pmid42603329,
year = {2026},
author = {Kozeratska, O and Gutnitska, A and Vdovichenko, O and Spivak, V and Kabesheva, A},
title = {MENTAL HEALTH IN THE MODERN WORLD: THE PROBLEM AND SOLUTIONS.},
journal = {Georgian medical news},
volume = {},
number = {375},
pages = {153-160},
pmid = {42603329},
issn = {1512-0112},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology/therapy/psychology ; *Mental Health/statistics & numerical data ; *Mental Health Services ; Ukraine/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Global Health ; Quality of Life ; Health Services Accessibility ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {AIM OF THE STUDY: To analyze current mental health problems, assess the prevalence of mental disorders, identify key determinants, and evaluate access to mental health care in different countries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A narrative analytical review with a comparative synthesis of international and national data on mental health for 2019-2025 was conducted, including scientific publications, reports and estimates from the World Health Organization, Global Burden of Disease, World Mental Health, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, and national data from Ukraine.

RESULTS: Mental health significantly affects quality of life, productivity, and social stability. The COVID-19 pandemic, military conflicts, and economic instability have increased the prevalence of depressive, anxiety, and stress-related disorders worldwide. A high global burden of mental disorders and major regional differences were identified. The treatment gap remains especially high in low- and middle-income countries, where less than 10% of the population receives adequate care. In developed countries, coverage reaches 20-40%, although inequalities, long waiting times, and stigmatization persist. In Ukraine, the prevalence of mental disorders is estimated at 31-36% due to socio-economic instability and military conflict.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight the need to integrate mental health services into primary health care, expand community-based support models, and implement comprehensive policies to reduce the global burden of mental disorders.},
}

Humans
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology/therapy/psychology
*Mental Health/statistics & numerical data
*Mental Health Services
Ukraine/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Global Health
Quality of Life
Health Services Accessibility
SARS-CoV-2
Prevalence

@article {pmid42603685,
year = {2026},
author = {Azhar, EI and Alqahtani, M and Assiri, AM and Al-Abri, SS and Traore, T and Ntoumi, F and Bockarie, M and Petersen, E and Ippolito, G and Hui, DS and McCloskey, B and Perlman, S and Zumla, A},
title = {MERS-CoV in the Middle East and Africa: from surveillance gaps in humans and dromedary camels to One Health frameworks for spillover, prevention, research and response preparedness.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {109046},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2026.109046},
pmid = {42603685},
issn = {1878-3511},
abstract = {Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) remains a low-incidence but high-consequence zoonotic coronavirus threat. Since its identification in Saudi Arabia in 2012, more than 2600 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported from 27 countries, most from the Arabian Peninsula; the reported case fatality ratio is high but probably overestimates infection fatality because mild and asymptomatic infections are under-detected. Dromedary camels across the Middle East, North Africa, East Africa, the Horn of Africa, and parts of the Sahel show extensive evidence of MERS-CoV infection or exposure, yet PCR-confirmed human disease has rarely been reported from Africa. This "Africa paradox" is one of the most important unresolved issues in MERS-CoV epidemiology. We propose a dromedary camel-centred One Health framework for the connected Middle East-Africa dromedary belt. The framework is organised around two linked barriers: an upstream barrier that detects and reduces zoonotic spillover at the camel-human interface, and a downstream healthcare barrier that prevents amplification after human infection occurs. Preparedness should include sentinel surveillance for severe acute respiratory infection and atypical pneumonia in camel-exposed populations, linked animal-human genomic surveillance, culturally respectful and occupationally practical risk reduction, rapid diagnostic pathways, healthcare infection prevention and control, mass-gathering and travel preparedness, and pre-approved research platforms. A Middle East-Africa preparedness compact aligned with the International Health Regulations, One Health governance, and equitable pathogen access and benefit sharing could transform fragmented surveillance into a standing transregional system for early detection, prevention, and research-ready response.},
}

@article {pmid42604059,
year = {2026},
author = {Dollfus, H and Arzimanoglou, A and Evangelista, T and Graessner, H and Mosca, M and Sangiorgi, L and Blay, JY and Bodemer, C and Fenaux, P and Hernández, F and Jondeau, G and Ligtenberg, MJL and Lohse, AW and Mathijssen, IMJ and Mulders, P and Pereira, AM and Schaefer, F and Swart, JF and Verloes, A and Wagner, TOF and Wijnen, RMH and Wilde, AAM and Pereira, MDMM and Ladenstein, R and Scarpa, M},
title = {Crisis readiness for rare disease populations: learnings and recommendations by the European Reference Networks.},
journal = {The Lancet regional health. Europe},
volume = {69},
number = {},
pages = {101801},
pmid = {42604059},
issn = {2666-7762},
abstract = {Patients with rare diseases are particularly vulnerable during emergencies due to dependence on specialised care pathways, medicines, and expertise. European Reference Networks (ERNs) for rare and complex diseases have operated since 2017 and were confronted with two major crises: the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. To assess ERN experiences, responses, and preparedness for crisis and disaster situations, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of all 24 ERN coordinators between July and September 2025. Only 2 (8·3%) ERNs reported pre-existing preparedness plans, while 70% lack structured frameworks. Major bottlenecks included patient access to healthcare facilities, drug and device shortages, bed shortage, staff unavailability, and diagnostic service interruption. Our findings highlight the need to formally integrate and mandate ERNs into European health emergency preparedness and response mechanisms. We propose a 10-point global crisis preparedness plan for rare diseases emphasizing cross-border coordination, digital infrastructure, patient education, and integration with national emergency services and non-governmental organizations.},
}

@article {pmid42599088,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, T and Qu, X and Si, J and Meng, J and Zhang, T and Niu, S},
title = {Liver Organoids: From Disease Modelling to Regenerative Medicine.},
journal = {Cell proliferation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70268},
pmid = {42599088},
issn = {1365-2184},
support = {81460202//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; XJEDU2026Z018//Fundamental Research Funds for Universities in Xinjiang/ ; 2025BA0090//Karamay Key R&D Program Projects/ ; XGGK2025-02//High-Level Talent Research Startup Program of Xinjiang Second Medical College/ ; KT202603//Xinjiang Second Med Coll Res Innov Team Program/ ; 202513560001//Undergraduate Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program of Xinjiang Second Medical College/ ; },
abstract = {Liver organoids are three-dimensional miniature liver models that recapitulate the complex architecture and key functions of the human liver in vitro, offering powerful platforms for both fundamental research and translational applications. This review systematically summarises current fabrication strategies, disease-modelling utilities and regenerative potentials of liver organoids, alongside the major challenges and future directions. In recent years, the field has witnessed several breakthroughs. Through endothelial co-culture approaches, vascularised and metabolically zonated liver organoids have been successfully generated, achieving endothelial coverage exceeding 85%. Prime editing enables precise correction of pathogenic mutations in patient-derived organoids, with no off-target effects detected at the genome-wide level. In disease modelling, iPSC-derived liver organoids faithfully recapitulate the pathological progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and verify the lipid-lowering efficacy of semaglutide. Macrophage-integrated organoid models support the full life cycles of HEV, SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus, providing new tools for antiviral drug screening. Large-scale patient-derived tumour organoid biobanks successfully preserve the heterogeneity and clinical drug-resistance signatures of liver cancers. In regenerative medicine, encapsulated hepatocyte organoids and the UTOpiA bioartificial liver system have effectively rescued acute liver failure in animal models, while gene-edited autologous organoids offer potential curative strategies for genetic disorders such as Wilson disease. Nevertheless, insufficient hepatocyte functional maturity, difficulties in constructing vascular networks, and the lack of standardised culture protocols remain major obstacles to clinical translation. By bridging fundamental liver biology and clinical practice, liver organoid technology lays a solid foundation for precision hepatology and regenerative therapies. Continued interdisciplinary efforts are still required to overcome current limitations and facilitate its clinical adoption.},
}

@article {pmid42599394,
year = {2026},
author = {Sloan, JP and Rong, L and Moore, TW},
title = {Deadbolt Drug Discovery: Locking the Door to Class 1 Viral Entry by Small Molecules.},
journal = {ACS infectious diseases},
volume = {12},
number = {8},
pages = {2485-2504},
doi = {10.1021/acsinfecdis.6c00302},
pmid = {42599394},
issn = {2373-8227},
support = {R01 AI168362//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {*Virus Internalization/drug effects ; *Drug Discovery ; Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Small Molecule Libraries/pharmacology/chemistry ; Viral Fusion Proteins/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; Animals ; *Viruses/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The continued emergence of viral pathogens underscores the need for novel antiviral therapeutics with improved efficacy. Small-molecule inhibitors of viral entry are attractive antiviral agents because they block the virus at its earliest step, preventing the virus from entering host cells and causing downstream damage. Some of the viruses of greatest concern for human health, such as human immunodeficiency virus, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus, Ebola virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, and Lassa virus, encode Class 1 fusion proteins which mediate membrane fusion and viral entry. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the discovery and development of small-molecule entry inhibitors reported over the past five years that target viruses encoding Class 1 fusion proteins.},
}

*Virus Internalization/drug effects
*Drug Discovery
Humans
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Small Molecule Libraries/pharmacology/chemistry
Viral Fusion Proteins/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
Animals
*Viruses/drug effects

@article {pmid42600351,
year = {2026},
author = {Wilson, C and Hanson, S and Flannery, L and Warncken, K and Steel, N},
title = {Socioeconomic adversity and child health following the COVID-19 pandemic: A convergent integrated mixed-methods review of household and neighbourhood inequalities.},
journal = {Social science & medicine (1982)},
volume = {407},
number = {},
pages = {119680},
doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2026.119680},
pmid = {42600351},
issn = {1873-5347},
abstract = {Children experience inequalities in health at household and neighbourhood level, even in wealthy countries. Measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic such as school closures, followed by the cost-of-living crisis, did not affect all children equally. This review aimed to understand the impact of socioeconomic adversity on child health and development following the COVID-19 pandemic. Systematic literature searches used the SPIDER tool to identify studies, and a convergent integrated approach to combine and synthesise quantitative and qualitative data. A mixed methods appraisal tool was used to appraise for risk of bias. Three integrated findings were identified from 125 studies: 1. Socioeconomic adversity and unequal exposure to risk; 2. Community support and professional input as protective influences. 3. Structural and system-level requirements to address socioeconomic adversity. COVID-19 restriction measures were associated with worsening family finances and health of disadvantaged children who experienced cramped living conditions and insecure food and housing. COVID-19 amplified existing health inequalities. These inequalities could potentially be reduced through public health interventions such as improved availability of community services, greater consideration of sociodemographic factors in healthcare settings, and by professionals using their collective voice to influence policy development, for example through improved data sharing to help public-sector services make the best use of available data to support vulnerable families.},
}

@article {pmid42322969,
year = {2026},
author = {Abouhend, AS and Hanafy, WA and Watt, C and Nnachi, RC and Shenoy, P and Butler, CS},
title = {Making waves: toward systems-level interpretation of hormonal and endogenous biomarkers in wastewater-based epidemiology.},
journal = {Water research},
volume = {304},
number = {},
pages = {126269},
doi = {10.1016/j.watres.2026.126269},
pmid = {42322969},
issn = {1879-2448},
mesh = {*Biomarkers/analysis ; *Wastewater/chemistry ; *Hormones/analysis ; Humans ; *Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring ; Environmental Monitoring ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has proven invaluable for population health monitoring, most notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet current WBE largely relies on exogenous markers such as drugs, pathogens, and their metabolites, limiting surveillance to what communities are exposed to. We argue for expanding WBE towards endogenous biomarkers, particularly hormones, which provide insights into physiological stress, metabolic function, and endocrine activity. Hormone-based WBE offers new opportunities to capture population-level biological responses to societal and environmental stressors, disasters, and chronic disease burdens at the community scale. This perspective outlines a systems-level framework for integrating hormonal signals in wastewater with clinical data, behavioral indicators, environmental factors, and digital markers to support more robust and context-aware public health surveillance. We highlight key technical considerations, interpretive challenges, and opportunities for translational pilot studies. By moving beyond exposure tracking toward more integrated interpretation of biological responses, hormone-informed WBE may contribute to more resilient, inclusive, and actionable public health infrastructure.},
}

*Biomarkers/analysis
*Wastewater/chemistry
*Hormones/analysis
Humans
*Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring
Environmental Monitoring
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid42598066,
year = {2026},
author = {Azhar, LE and Alsaieedi, AA and AlEissa, MM and Baroom, HA and Alghoraibi, AH and Alzahrani, KS and Azhar, EI},
title = {Durability of COVID-19 vaccine-induced immunity in Saudi Arabia: evidence, gaps, and implications for Hajj and mass-gathering preparedness.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1853635},
pmid = {42598066},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Saudi Arabia/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Mass Gatherings ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Islam ; Vaccination ; Immunization, Secondary ; Antibodies, Viral ; },
abstract = {The policy question for COVID-19 vaccination has shifted from whether vaccines induce protection to how long clinically meaningful protection persists and how immune information should guide preparedness. This question is especially relevant to Saudi Arabia, where Hajj and Umrah create predictable periods of dense population mixing among pilgrims with diverse vaccination histories, prior infection exposures, ages, and comorbidity profiles. This structured narrative review synthesizes evidence on durability of COVID-19 vaccine-induced immunity, Saudi epidemiological and serological data, heterologous booster strategies, hybrid immunity, and operational implications for mass-gathering preparedness. A structured search of biomedical databases and public-health sources was undertaken for evidence published from January 2020 to May 2026. The review highlights those circulating antibodies and neutralizing activity decline after vaccination, particularly against antigenically divergent variants, whereas memory B-cell responses and CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell immunity generally provide more durable protection against severe disease. Saudi evidence remains limited but informative: national seroprevalence studies, vaccine-rollout data, clinical-effectiveness analyses, and recent serological work indicate substantial prior exposure, strong post-vaccination antibody responses, and meaningful protection against hospitalization and intensive-care admission, particularly after booster dosing. Heterologous schedules and hybrid immunity appear to broaden immune protection, but their policy relevance lies in flexible risk-based planning rather than in promoting infection as a strategy. For Hajj and Umrah, the main implication is a shift from simple dose counting toward immune durability, risk stratification, booster timing, vaccination documentation, genomic surveillance, and integrated respiratory-virus monitoring.},
}

Humans
Saudi Arabia/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*Mass Gatherings
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Islam
Vaccination
Immunization, Secondary
Antibodies, Viral

@article {pmid42598440,
year = {2026},
author = {Mallal, S and Asiaee, A},
title = {Keystone Epitope Theory: An Ecological Perspective on RNA Viruses, Tumor Immunoediting, and Vaccine Design.},
journal = {Pathogens & immunity},
volume = {11},
number = {2},
pages = {39-65},
pmid = {42598440},
issn = {2469-2964},
abstract = {We propose that persistent, human-adapted DNA organisms shape postnatal immunity by focusing responses on functionally constrained epitopes within tissue niches. Here, we examine rapidly evolving RNA viruses and tumors through that lens. We propose that their persistence is promoted by 2 coupled mechanisms: (i) immunodominance steering toward mutable "decoy" epitopes that contribute little to durable control, and (ii) antigen display control that reduces cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) recognition while preserving inhibitory natural killer (NK) receptor engagement, for example via HIV Nef/Vpu effects on HLA-A and HLA-B and through HLA-E/NKG2A pathways. Tumors show analogous vulnerabilities through altered class I expression and reinforcement of inhibitory signaling. Using HIV as the primary model, we distinguish HLA-associated viral adaptation mechanisms and highlight evidence consistent with a subset of adaptations that preserve detectable T-cell recognition while being associated with reduced antiviral effector function. We then consider the degree to which this framework can be extended to hepatitis C virus (HCV), influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and tumor immunoediting. We conclude with 3 vaccine design principles: prioritize epitopes where substitutions carry measurable fitness costs, avoid immunogens dominated by mutable targets, and account for antigen presentation context and inhibitory NK signaling when evaluating epitope choice. We distinguish established observations from testable predictions and outline experiments needed to evaluate the framework. We frame the analysis conditionally on the keystone-imprinting premise, which is developed in companion work.},
}

@article {pmid42598757,
year = {2026},
author = {Jamshidi, N and Hampton, I and Theodore, K and Tadakamadla, S and McGrath, R and Kangutkar, T},
title = {Prevalence of Work-Related Hazards Impacting Health and Well-Being Among Australian Dental Practitioners: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Australian dental journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/adj.70061},
pmid = {42598757},
issn = {1834-7819},
support = {//PSA insurance/ ; //ADA victorian branch/ ; },
abstract = {This scoping review explored the prevalence of work-related psychological and physical health issues among Australian dental practitioners, mapped across key occupational hazard domains (psychosocial/organisational, physical/ergonomic and environmental/infection-related) and summarised reported impacts on practitioner well-being and workforce outcomes. Databases including Embase, PsycINFO and PubMed were systematically searched from 2015 to March 2025 to capture contemporary practice and COVID-19 pandemic period. Eligible studies focused on Australian dental practitioners and reported the prevalence of psychological or musculoskeletal outcomes, and risk or protective factors. Data were synthesised narratively in line with a hazard-outcome framework. Sixteen studies met inclusion criteria (nine pandemic-era, seven pre-pandemic). Across these studies, dental practitioners frequently reported psychological outcomes (distress, burnout, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation) and musculoskeletal symptoms related to awkward postures and repetitive tasks, particularly when exposed to high workload pressures, emotional demands and limited support. Pandemic-related infection-control and workload pressures were associated with additional stress and fatigue. Reported protective factors included resilience, emotional regulation and supportive workplace or peer environments. This scoping review indicates persistent and overlapping psychosocial, ergonomic and infection-related hazards that may place Australian dental practitioners at risk of mental and physical health challenges, emphasising need for integrated, multi-level strategies and tailored workplace interventions to foster psychologically safe workplaces.},
}

@article {pmid41848188,
year = {2026},
author = {Ayoade, OF and Caturegli, G and Palis, B and McCabe, R and Weigel, RJ and Canavan, ME and Boughey, JC and Boffa, DJ},
title = {Updated Review: Using the National Cancer Database for Outcomes-Based Research.},
journal = {Journal of the American College of Surgeons},
volume = {243},
number = {3},
pages = {696-707},
doi = {10.1097/XCS.0000000000001924},
pmid = {41848188},
issn = {1879-1190},
mesh = {Humans ; United States/epidemiology ; *Databases, Factual ; *Neoplasms/therapy/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Outcome Assessment, Health Care ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The National Cancer Database (NCDB) captures 73.7% of newly diagnosed cancers in the USs and underpins thousands of outcomes studies informing oncologic practice. To remain relevant amid rapid therapeutic and policy changes, the NCDB has undergone substantial structural and variable-level revisions. We characterized major updates during the past decade and their implications for research.

STUDY DESIGN: We performed a narrative review of annual NCDB data dictionary revisions, American College of Surgeons bulletins, and internal program updates in collaboration with NCDB leadership. Structural modifications, variable additions, and policy changes affecting data capture, follow-up, staging, and accessibility were systematically summarized.

RESULTS: The NCDB now includes data from 1,413 Commission on Cancer-accredited hospitals and more than 55 million records. Since 2020, the Rapid Cancer Reporting System enables near-real-time monthly submissions. Embargo periods were reduced from 5 to 3 years for survival data and 2 years for other variables, increasing analytic timeliness. Follow-up was limited to 15 years beginning January 1, 2022. Variable refinements include continuous tumor size in millimeters (since 2016), separation of tumor grade into clinical, pathologic, and posttherapy fields (since 2018), phased radiation treatment reporting (since 2018), and American Joint Committee on Cancer eighth edition staging implementation in January 2018 with nineth edition rollout ongoing. New data elements include Medicaid expansion status (2020), COVID-19 variables (2020 to 2021; 12.4% reduction in cases in 2020), smoking status (2023), and planned programmed death-ligand 1 reporting for non-small cell lung cancer beginning in 2025.

CONCLUSIONS: The NCDB has evolved toward more granular, contemporary, and policy-relevant data capture while maintaining broad national coverage. Investigators must account for staging transitions, variable maturation, follow-up limits, and registry-specific biases to ensure valid interpretation of NCDB-based research.},
}

Humans
United States/epidemiology
*Databases, Factual
*Neoplasms/therapy/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Outcome Assessment, Health Care

@article {pmid42260236,
year = {2026},
author = {Hill, R and Luintel, A and Mutengesa, E and Fink, DL},
title = {Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Anti-interferon Auto-antibodies in Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Journal of clinical immunology},
volume = {46},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42260236},
issn = {1573-2592},
mesh = {Humans ; *Autoantibodies/immunology/blood ; *COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; *Communicable Diseases/immunology/epidemiology ; *Interferons/immunology ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood/immunology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence and function of anti-interferon auto-antibodies in acute infectious diseases.

METHODS: We performed a search on the following electronic bibliographic databases: Medline, Embase, Web of Science and Cochrane. Eligible studies generated a systematic review and random effects model meta-analysis of pooled seroprevalence and neutralisation status of anti-interferon auto-antibodies in acute infectious diseases.

RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies including 12,629 individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection were analysed. There are insufficient data for meta-analyses of auto-antibodies in non-SARS-CoV-2 infectious diseases, with crude seroprevalence of auto-antibodies varying widely (0.0-77.0%). The pooled seroprevalence of anti-IFNɑ and/or anti-IFN⍵ auto-antibodies in individuals with SARS-CoV-2 infection was 14% (95%CI 9-18%, I[2] = 92%, [Formula: see text][2] = 0.0151, p < 0.01). Pooled prevalence of neutralising auto-antibodies were slightly lower (12%; 95%CI 8-17%, I[2] = 77%, [Formula: see text][2] = 0.0027, p < 0.01). The high heterogeneity may reflect divergent SARS-CoV-2 disease severity across studies, and methodological diversity for measurement and definition of auto-antibody binding and neutralisation. Pooled seroprevalence for anti-IFNɑ auto-antibodies in uninfected healthy controls were < 1% (95%CI 0-1%, I[2] = 90%, [Formula: see text][2] = 0.0028, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION: Anti-interferon auto-antibodies may impair immune responses to diverse infections leading to life-threatening disease. These auto-antibodies have not been studied at all in most infectious diseases, most notably for bacterial infection. This study illustrates the urgent need to standardise methodology and reporting of auto-antibodies in the setting of infectious diseases so that the immunopathology and translational impact of these novel biomarkers can be realised.},
}

Humans
*Autoantibodies/immunology/blood
*COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Seroepidemiologic Studies
*Communicable Diseases/immunology/epidemiology
*Interferons/immunology
Antibodies, Neutralizing/blood/immunology

@article {pmid42556091,
year = {2026},
author = {Kaur, M and Promi, TJ and Gopali, L and Lee, J and Ward, K and Jackson, TM and Lau, AYS},
title = {Virtual hospital services for adult patients: A scoping review.},
journal = {International journal of medical informatics},
volume = {220},
number = {},
pages = {106611},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2026.106611},
pmid = {42556091},
issn = {1872-8243},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy ; Adult ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; Digital Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic expedited the use of virtual hospital services (VHS) and hybrid hospital-in-the-home (HITH) models. However, the current evidence base remains fragmented and heterogeneous in care model designs, terminology, and reported outcome measures. This scoping review maps the published literature on VHS models implemented or evaluated for adults aged 18 to 65 during and after the COVID-19 period.

METHODS: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines, a comprehensive literature search of four online databases was conducted, identifying articles published between March 2021 and July 2025, followed by screening of reference lists of included studies by two authors.

RESULTS: Of 1624 records identified, 28 studies met the eligibility criteria. Most studies were published in the last two years, reflecting accelerated interest in sustaining VHS models beyond the pandemic. Of these, 16 studies reported on fully virtual models, while 12 studies described hybrid HITH models. Most models utilised mixed synchronous and asynchronous communication, while mobile applications and wearables were uncommon. Respiratory conditions were the most common diagnostic group (n = 17/28), and heart failure exacerbation was the most frequently reported specific condition (n = 6/28). Patient satisfaction and experience were most frequently reported outcome measures (n = 17/28); qualitative evidence on clinician and caregiver experience was limited.

CONCLUSIONS: This review provides a structured map of VHS model components in the adult non-geriatric population, revealing substantial heterogeneity and inconsistent reporting amongst different care models. The evidence base remains dominated by pilot and single-site studies. Future research should prioritise standardised taxonomy and clear model descriptions to inform future effectiveness and implementation research.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
Adult
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
Digital Health
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid42593604,
year = {2026},
author = {Goulart, CDL and Franzoni, LT and Ferrari, F and Cardoso, AS and Bittencourt, N and Stein, R},
title = {Exercise and Cardiovascular Risk Modulation in Post-COVID Syndrome.},
journal = {Current atherosclerosis reports},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42593604},
issn = {1534-6242},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/physiopathology/prevention & control/etiology ; *Exercise/physiology ; Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology ; *Exercise Therapy/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Vascular Stiffness ; Heart Disease Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Post-COVID syndrome (PASC) has emerged as a multisystem condition associated with persistent cardiovascular abnormalities, including endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, chronic inflammation, metabolic disturbances, autonomic imbalance, and increased atherosclerotic risk. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms linking PASC to cardiovascular disease and discusses the potential role of exercise training as a strategy to mitigate vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular risk.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies demonstrate that individuals with PASC exhibit persistent low-grade inflammation, impaired endothelial function, accelerated vascular aging, platelet hyperreactivity, insulin resistance, sarcopenia, and autonomic dysfunction. These alterations contribute to a pro-atherogenic phenotype that may persist months to years after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging evidence indicates that exercise training improves inflammatory status, endothelial function, arterial stiffness, metabolic health, autonomic regulation, and functional capacity in post-COVID patients, potentially attenuating mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic progression. Post-COVID syndrome is associated with multiple interconnected biological pathways that increase long-term cardiovascular risk. Exercise training appears to be a promising non-pharmacological intervention capable of targeting several of these mechanisms simultaneously. Although further randomized controlled trials are needed, current evidence supports the integration of individualized exercise-based rehabilitation into the management of patients with PASC to promote vascular recovery and reduce cardiovascular risk.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Cardiovascular Diseases/physiopathology/prevention & control/etiology
*Exercise/physiology
Endothelium, Vascular/physiopathology
*Exercise Therapy/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Vascular Stiffness
Heart Disease Risk Factors

@article {pmid42593790,
year = {2026},
author = {Pita-Martínez, C and Sepúlveda-Crespo, D and Bermejo-Martín, JF and Martínez, I and Resino, S},
title = {CCL5 Levels, Disease Progression, and Mortality in Respiratory Viral Infections: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {JAMA network open},
volume = {9},
number = {8},
pages = {e2628987},
doi = {10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.28987},
pmid = {42593790},
issn = {2574-3805},
mesh = {Humans ; *Chemokine CCL5/blood ; Disease Progression ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/mortality/blood/virology ; Male ; *Virus Diseases/mortality/blood ; Female ; Biomarkers/blood ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: The role of chemokine C-C motif ligand 5 (CCL5) in respiratory viral infections remains controversial; although essential for viral clearance, it is also implicated in pathogenic hyperinflammation.

OBJECTIVE: To quantify associations between CCL5 levels and unfavorable disease progression and mortality in respiratory viral infections.

DATA SOURCES: Medline and PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, CABI Digital Library, and Global Health (Ovid) were searched from inception to October 1, 2025.

STUDY SELECTION: Observational studies evaluating the association of CCL5 levels with clinical severity or survival in patients with confirmed respiratory viral infections.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) and certainty of evidence (GRADE). Data were pooled using a random-effects model following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data analysis was performed from September 2025 to December 2025.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Unfavorable disease progression (severity) and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 18 studies (2376 patients; median age, 58.2 [range, 0.08-65.0] years; 1278 of 2126 male [60.1%]); 12 studies (67%) were of high methodological quality. Eleven studies (1214 patients) evaluated disease progression and 7 (1162 patients) evaluated mortality. Elevated CCL5 levels were associated with reduced odds of unfavorable disease progression (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.71-0.85; I2 = 0%) and mortality (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.55-0.76; I2 = 23.1%). The protective association had significantly larger effect sizes for mortality than for disease progression (P = .047 for interaction). Subgroup analyses for disease progression demonstrated consistent protective associations without significant interaction by virus type (coronavirus: OR, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.70-0.90] vs noncoronavirus: OR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.63-0.87]) or age group (pediatric: OR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.69-0.90] vs adult: OR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.63-0.88]). Results remained consistent in sensitivity analyses.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 observational studies, elevated CCL5 levels were associated with favorable outcomes and survival in respiratory viral infections, reflecting a competent antiviral immune response rather than pathogenic hyperinflammation. These findings suggest that CCL5 may serve as a prognostic biomarker for risk stratification.},
}

Humans
*Chemokine CCL5/blood
Disease Progression
*Respiratory Tract Infections/mortality/blood/virology
Male
*Virus Diseases/mortality/blood
Female
Biomarkers/blood
Middle Aged

@article {pmid42593939,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, X and Hu, T and Loregian, A and Yang, H and Gao, S and Zhan, P},
title = {Recent Advances in Antiviral Medicinal Chemistry against Flaviviruses Driven by Multistrategic Approaches.},
journal = {Journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {69},
number = {15},
pages = {17561-17583},
doi = {10.1021/acs.jmedchem.6c00626},
pmid = {42593939},
issn = {1520-4804},
support = {55777 2020.0162 - ARREST-COV//Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo/ ; PE00000007//NextGenerationEU/ ; 22307067//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 20223RYYFC//Ministero dell?Istruzione, dell?Universit? e della Ricerca/ ; P20222YKP8//Ministero dell?Istruzione, dell?Universit? e della Ricerca/ ; IG 2021 - ID. 25899//Associazione Italiana per la Ricerca sul Cancro/ ; 2023YFC2606500//Jiangsu Provincial Key Research and Development Program/ ; 2024KJJ063//Young Innovation Team of Colleges and Universities in Shandong Province/ ; NA//Young Talent of Lifting Engineering for Science and Technology in Shandong/ ; TQ052025001//Independent Project of Shandong Basic Research Special Zone/ ; ZD2021CY001//Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Flavivirus/drug effects/metabolism ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical ; Animals ; Drug Discovery ; },
abstract = {Flaviviruses constitute a global health threat, mainly because of the increasing geographical spread of vectors and the suboptimal efficacy of existing prophylactic vaccines. Despite the substantial clinical burden imposed by these pathogens, a critical gap remains in the approved specific antiviral therapies. This Perspective critically evaluates recent advances in antiflaviviral drug discovery, focusing on viral nonstructural proteins (NSs), host-targeted therapeutic targets, and emerging targeted protein degradation (TPD) technologies. We highlight direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) against NS2B-NS3, NS5, and NS4B, host-targeted antivirals (HTAs) that modulate virus-dependent cellular pathways, and the transformative potential of TPD, thereby filling the gap of insufficient systematic summaries in this field. By integrating rational drug design strategies and dissecting the pharmacological profiles of agents with different scaffolds, this Perspective aims to provide a panoramic snapshot of the current landscape and a conceptual roadmap for accelerating the development of next-generation, broad-spectrum antiflaviviral drugs.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Humans
*Flavivirus/drug effects/metabolism
Viral Nonstructural Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
Animals
Drug Discovery

@article {pmid42594551,
year = {2026},
author = {Silva-Miranda, M and Lara-Espinosa, JV and Gordillo-Marroquín, C and Sánchez-Pérez, HJ and Hernández Pando, R},
title = {The burden of tuberculosis in Latin America: Immunogenetic and socioepidemiological determinants.},
journal = {Seminars in immunology},
volume = {83},
number = {},
pages = {102054},
doi = {10.1016/j.smim.2026.102054},
pmid = {42594551},
issn = {1096-3618},
abstract = {Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), remains a major global health challenge and the leading cause of death from a single infectious agent. Despite diagnostic and therapeutic advances, the COVID-19 pandemic reversed progress in TB control, with a notable rise in incidence across Latin America. This region bears a disproportionate burden of the disease due to socioeconomic inequality, limited access to healthcare, and high rates of multidrug-resistant TB. Interactions among pathogen genetics, host susceptibility, immune response, and environmental determinants critically shape disease outcomes. Several key questions remain about the higher incidence of TB in the Americas, including the roles of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and social determinants such as poverty and migration. Addressing these issues is essential to refining control strategies. Accordingly, this review provides an updated overview of TB in Latin America, integrating immunological, genetic, and socio-epidemiological perspectives that could be useful for future research and policy discussions toward more region-specific interventions against Mtb.},
}

@article {pmid42595311,
year = {2026},
author = {Araujo, AQC},
title = {Lost in translation: why pharmacological trials keep failing in acute spinal cord injury.},
journal = {Arquivos de neuro-psiquiatria},
volume = {84},
number = {8},
pages = {1-9},
doi = {10.1055/s-0046-1827054},
pmid = {42595311},
issn = {1678-4227},
mesh = {Humans ; *Spinal Cord Injuries/drug therapy ; *Translational Research, Biomedical ; *Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {Despite four decades of translational research, no pharmacological agent has been approved for acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) based on class-I evidence. The current narrative review critically examines the seven agents evaluated in phase-II to -III clinical trials-methylprednisolone (MPSS), GM-1 monosialotetrahexosylganglioside, minocycline, riluzole, anti-Nogo-A antibody NG101, VX-210, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-with emphasis on quantitative effect estimates, confidence intervals, and mechanisms of translational failure. Polylaminin, under phase-I evaluation approved by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária, ANVISA, in Portuguese), is discussed in the context of disproportionate public communication relative to the stage of evidence; available human data are limited to a small, uncontrolled, unreviewed pilot study insufficient for efficacy inferences. High-dose MPSS conferred no motor recovery benefit in a meta-analysis of 1,863 participants and was significantly associated with gastrointestinal hemorrhage (odds ratio [OR] = 2.07; 95%CI: 1.02-4.20) and respiratory infections (OR = 1.73; 95%CI: 1.12-2.68). Furthermore, GM-1 ganglioside, G-CSF, and VX-210 failed to meet the prespecified primary endpoints. Minocycline produced inconclusive results in an underpowered phase-II study. Riluzole (Riluzole in Spinal Cord Injury Study [RISCIS]), which was prematurely terminated at 55% of enrollment due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, showed a significant motor benefit in patients classified as grade C according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS) (+8.0 points; 95%CI: 1.5-14.4; 2-tailed p = 0.034). The Nogo Inhibition in Spinal Cord Injury (NISCI) trial (2025), the most methodologically rigorous SCI trial to date, demonstrated no primary endpoint benefit but identified functional signals in motor-incomplete injuries. In total, six structural domains of translational failure are identified and methodological solutions proposed.},
}

Humans
*Spinal Cord Injuries/drug therapy
*Translational Research, Biomedical
*Neuroprotective Agents/therapeutic use
Clinical Trials as Topic

@article {pmid42595776,
year = {2026},
author = {Khalid, K and Ahmed Abd El-Aal, AA and Lee, MF},
title = {Prevalence of hypertension in severe vs. non-severe COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of human hypertension},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42595776},
issn = {1476-5527},
abstract = {Although numerous studies have investigated the association between hypertension and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity, differences in study characteristics have limited the consistency and generalizability of the available evidence. This systematic review and meta-analysis systematically evaluated the association between hypertension and COVID-19 severity by synthesizing evidence from 30 studies involving 15,549 participants comparing the prevalence of hypertension in non-severe and severe COVID-19 patients. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) were calculated using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using I[2] and τ[2] statistics, while subgroup analyses and meta-regression examined the effects of region, sample size, study quality, age, and gender. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test. Hypertension was more frequently observed in severe COVID-19 cases across the included studies with a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 2.73 (95% CI: 1.85-4.02, p < 0.00001), However, substantial heterogeneity was observed (I[2] = 88%), limiting the precision of the pooled estimate. Subgroup analysis showed that sample size, NOS scores, and age did not significantly explain heterogeneity, with gender composition also not significantly associated with effect size (β = 0.021, p = 0.38). Funnel plot analysis and Egger's test showed no significant publication bias. Overall, hypertension was associated with an increased likelihood of severe COVID-19, although the high level of heterogeneity suggests that the findings should be interpreted with caution. These findings contribute to the understanding of the association between hypertension and COVID-19 severity and may inform clinical risk stratification and public health decision-making.},
}

@article {pmid42596759,
year = {2026},
author = {Cintra, O and Alsharef, Z and Phansalkar, A and Anzueto, A and Loeb, M},
title = {Consensus based expert recommendations for management and prevention of RSV infections in older adults in emerging market countries: results from an expert panel structured survey.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {2715855},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2026.2715855},
pmid = {42596759},
issn = {1744-8395},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; Vaccination/methods ; Delphi Technique ; Immunization Programs ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology ; Consensus ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause serious disease in older adults (OAs), particularly those with comorbidities. It is a leading cause of acute respiratory illness and lower respiratory tract infections in adults ≥60 years. Its impact on morbidity, mortality, and healthcare systems is becoming evident. Questions about the burden of disease (BoD) are raised due to underdiagnosis and the similarity with other respiratory illnesses. First opportunities for prevention came in 2023 and 2024, with vaccines approved for ≥60 years, expanding eligibility to additional age groups.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A modified Delphi approach through a questionnaire survey and virtual consensus workshop with 27 experts in respiratory and infectious diseases from 12 emerging market countries was done to reach consensus on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of RSV in OAs.

RESULTS: The panel recommends the introduction of a universal vaccination program for all adults aged ≥70 years, and vaccination for all adults aged ≥60 years with comorbidities. The need for increased awareness, better testing, and national and international guidelines was also agreed.

CONCLUSION: The agreements highlight that RSV vaccination for OAs should be prioritized. Educating clinicians and patients, improving surveillance, and integrating RSV vaccination into health policies are key to reducing BoD in OAs.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology
Surveys and Questionnaires
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/administration & dosage
Aged
Middle Aged
Vaccination/methods
Delphi Technique
Immunization Programs
*Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/virology/epidemiology
Consensus

@article {pmid42597254,
year = {2026},
author = {Gambadauro, A and Piedimonte, GA and Manti, S and Piedimonte, G},
title = {Insights Into monoclonal antibodies and vaccines targeting respiratory viruses.},
journal = {Frontiers in pediatrics},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1864969},
pmid = {42597254},
issn = {2296-2360},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Viral respiratory infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide, with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) a major contributor to hospitalizations and healthcare utilization. Among respiratory pathogens, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of severe disease in early life and has driven major advances in preventive strategies. Increasing evidence also suggests that early-life viral infections may influence long-term respiratory outcomes, including recurrent wheezing and asthma.

AIM OF THE STUDY: This article provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiological burden, risk factors, and long-term consequences of pediatric viral infections. It also examines RSV as a case study in the evolution of preventive strategies and explores knowledge that can be translated from RSV management to other major respiratory viruses, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, rhinovirus, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), and parainfluenza.

DISCUSSION: RSV has reshaped pediatric respiratory prevention through the development of monoclonal antibodies and maternal vaccination strategies, enabling a shift from high-risk-based approaches to broader population-level protection. Advances in structural virology have enabled targeting of conserved viral epitopes, thereby improving efficacy and the duration of protection. Similar strategies are being explored for other respiratory viruses. However, antigenic variability, limited pediatric data, and incomplete vaccine effectiveness remain significant barriers.

CONCLUSION: RSV experience provides a robust foundation for preventing viral respiratory infections. Integrating passive and active immunization strategies, targeting conserved viral structures, and improving global access are essential to reduce the disease burden of pediatric respiratory infections.},
}

@article {pmid42597518,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Chen, S and Wu, Y and Zhou, W and Shang, H and Chen, X and Ou, R},
title = {Isolated orofacial dystonia and facial pain as the inaugural manifestation of anti-NMDAR encephalitis: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1885984},
pmid = {42597518},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis/diagnosis/complications/drug therapy ; Adult ; *Facial Pain/etiology/diagnosis/drug therapy ; *Dystonia/etiology/diagnosis ; Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use ; Autoantibodies/blood/cerebrospinal fluid ; },
abstract = {Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis typically presents with psychiatric symptoms, seizures, and cognitive dysfunction. Movement disorders, when present, usually coexist with these features. We report a rare case of anti-NMDAR encephalitis in a 30-year-old female who presented with isolated left temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dystonia, jaw tremor, and facial pain as the sole manifestations for seven months, without clinically significant psychiatric, cognitive, or seizure symptoms. The patient was repeatedly misdiagnosed with TMJ disorder and muscular dysfunction before anti-NMDAR IgG antibodies were detected by cell-based assay (CBA) in serum (1:32) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF, 1:1). First-line immunotherapy with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) achieved remission. However, she relapsed five months later following COVID-19 infection, with antibody titers rising to 1:100 in both serum and CSF. High-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy and maintenance mycophenolate mofetil were administered, achieving sustained clinical improvement over four years of follow-up, although mild residual focal dystonia persisted. Whole-exome sequencing and hereditary ataxia screening excluded genetic causes. This case broadens the clinical spectrum of anti-NMDAR encephalitis and underscores the importance of early antibody testing in young patients with treatment-refractory orofacial movement disorders.},
}

Humans
Female
*Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis/diagnosis/complications/drug therapy
Adult
*Facial Pain/etiology/diagnosis/drug therapy
*Dystonia/etiology/diagnosis
Immunoglobulins, Intravenous/therapeutic use
Autoantibodies/blood/cerebrospinal fluid

@article {pmid42597676,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, YL and Shan, J and Bao, XY and Jin, M and Huai, W and Jin, YC and Jin, YX and Zhang, ZN and Kuang, JQ},
title = {Rethinking preventive medicine education after COVID-19: bridging training gaps in public health practice.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1852914},
pmid = {42597676},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic exposed persistent structural weaknesses in public health systems worldwide, particularly in relation to workforce preparedness and the translation of training into practice. These shortcomings have renewed attention to the role of preventive medicine education, which is increasingly expected to respond to complex and rapidly evolving health challenges. Drawing on literature published since the COVID-19 pandemic and recent reforms in China, particularly within the framework of the "Healthy China 2030" initiative, and considering broader international developments, this mini-review examines how preventive medicine training is being reshaped. Recent shifts include a greater emphasis on competency-oriented approaches, expanded practice-based learning, and the integration of interdisciplinary perspectives. However, graduates of preventive medicine programs frequently perceived gaps between academic training and practical public health competencies, particularly in field epidemiology and emergency response preparedness. Building on these observations, we outline a forward-looking perspective that highlights the potential role of systems thinking, adaptive training models, and emerging forms of agentic learning. While these approaches appear promising, their practical implementation and long-term impact have yet to be fully established. Overall, this review seeks to contribute to ongoing discussions on how preventive medicine education can better support the development of a responsive and resilient public health workforce in the post-pandemic context.},
}

@article {pmid42597999,
year = {2026},
author = {Natarajan, C and Harshini, G and Priyadharsini, GT and Maheswaran, T and Naveenraj, NS and Venkat, M},
title = {Scope, Prospects, and Limitations of Living Systematic Reviews in Medical Literature: A Narrative Overview.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e112631},
pmid = {42597999},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Living systematic reviews (LSRs) have emerged as a response to the persistent lag between the publication of primary research and its incorporation into systematic reviews, a delay that has historically spanned several years and can render a meaningful proportion of reviews outdated within two years of publication. Since their formal introduction in 2014, LSRs have evolved from a single conceptual proposal into a maturing methodological field, supported by a dedicated PRISMA reporting extension, decision frameworks for determining when a living approach is warranted, and demonstrated applications in COVID-19 therapeutics, vaccine effectiveness, long COVID, and the development of formal clinical guidelines. Uptake accelerated markedly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and automation, ranging from human-machine collaborative workflows to large language models, has become central to sustaining the frequency of updates required by the living model, with reported gains in screening and extraction efficiency. However, methodological guidance for reporting and appraising LSRs remains underdeveloped relative to the pace of adoption, statistical methods for repeated meta-analytic updating are heterogeneous and imperfectly matched to network meta-analyses, and operational surveys consistently document inconsistent update schedules, limited communication of living status, and resource constraints that threaten their long-term sustainability. Realizing the full clinical and policy value of LSRs will require coordinated progress across methodological guidance, automation, and institutional support. Hence, this narrative review aims to examine the above concerns related to LSR.},
}

@article {pmid42598025,
year = {2026},
author = {Bashir, SG and Khalif, IA and Hubow, YA and Omar, AM and Mohamed, NO and Mohammed, AA and Mohamed, HH and Dahir, NA and Abdi, AM and Abdi, AN and Abdullahi, YB and Abdi, MS and Ahmed, NI and Abdi, YH and Abdulle, AA},
title = {Nipah virus and the lessons of COVID-19: are we prepared for the next pandemic threat?.},
journal = {Infectious medicine},
volume = {5},
number = {3},
pages = {100269},
pmid = {42598025},
issn = {2772-431X},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has exposed profound and persistent weaknesses in global preparedness, including fragmented surveillance systems, governance failures, inequitable access to countermeasures, and erosion of public trust. Although SARS-CoV-2 has dominated global attention, other high-consequence zoonotic pathogens with pandemic potential have remained comparatively neglected. Among these, the Nipah virus (NiV) represents a particularly serious threat, characterized by high case-fatality rates, zoonotic spillover from wildlife reservoirs, documented human-to-human transmission, and the absence of licensed vaccines or specific antiviral therapies. This narrative review synthesizes and contextualizes existing evidence on the NiV through the lens of lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on epidemiological data, outbreak experience, and global health policy literature, this review examines the key dimensions of preparedness, including surveillance and diagnostics, laboratory and health-system capacity, vaccine and therapeutic development, emergency governance, ethical decision-making, and the operationalization of One Health approaches, with particular attention to low- and middle-income and fragile settings. The review highlights that despite scientific advances achieved during COVID-19, preparedness for the NiV remains limited and uneven. Persistent gaps in integrated surveillance at human-animal-environment interfaces, constrained laboratory capacity, insufficient investment in countermeasures, fragmented governance, and enduring global inequities threaten timely detection and containment. The NiV should therefore be understood not as an isolated regional concern, but as a warning signal for future "Disease X" scenarios, underscoring the urgent need to translate COVID-19 lessons into sustained, equitable, and multisectoral pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid42598046,
year = {2026},
author = {Hamilton, A and Prihartono, I and Okura, Y and Rankin, N and Saiyed, S and Ratcliff, J and Oladimeji, A and Igusa, T and Gardner, L and Morgan, R},
title = {Gender-responsive infectious disease models: Guidelines and systematic scoping review.},
journal = {Dialogues in health},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {100329},
pmid = {42598046},
issn = {2772-6533},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sex and gender influence infectious disease outcomes through biological and social mechanisms. Gender norms, roles, and behaviors affect exposure, care-seeking, and service access, yet many infectious disease models overlook these factors.

METHODS: To provide guidance to researchers considering sex/gender in epidemiological models, we propose structured guidelines for developing gender-responsive infectious disease models, adapted from an established monitoring and evaluation framework. Recommendations include: 1) using sex/gender-disaggregated or sex/gender-specific populations; 2) incorporating an additional social stratifier (e.g., age, race/ethnicity); 3) maintaining stratification in results; 4) addressing the needs, rights, and preferences of gender groups; and 5) grounding models in context with participation from target groups. To provide examples, we conducted a scoping review using these criteria, drawing from HIV, COVID-19, and malaria literature.

FINDINGS: Of 7303 studies screened, 45 met inclusion criteria. Most modeled HIV (96%), used compartmental (73%) or agent-based (22%) approaches, and included sexual orientation or occupation as an additional stratifier. Studies contextualized their models by discussing local healthcare systems, unequal access to care, stigma, gender norms in partnership dynamics, and occupational risk.

INTERPRETATION: Gender-responsive modeling is feasible but uncommon beyond sexually transmitted infections. Applying intersectional, context-specific approaches can reveal disparities and inform equitable, efficient interventions. These guidelines can be adapted to address other health disparities.},
}

@article {pmid42454876,
year = {2026},
author = {Albini, TA and Yeh, S and Regillo, CD and Schwartz, R and Ferrone, PJ and Baumal, CR and Wykoff, CC},
title = {Expert Opinion: Management of Intraocular Inflammation and Vasculitis After Intravitreal Pegcetacoplan for Geographic Atrophy.},
journal = {Ophthalmic surgery, lasers & imaging retina},
volume = {57},
number = {8},
pages = {492-498},
doi = {10.3928/23258160-20260521-03},
pmid = {42454876},
issn = {2325-8179},
mesh = {Humans ; Intravitreal Injections ; *Geographic Atrophy/drug therapy ; Female ; Visual Acuity ; *Retinal Vasculitis/diagnosis/drug therapy/chemically induced ; Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; Aged ; *Angiogenesis Inhibitors/adverse effects ; Male ; *Vasculitis/drug therapy/diagnosis/chemically induced ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: This expert opinion review is intended to provide guidelines for diagnosis and management of intraocular inflammation (IOI) and vasculitis following pegcetacoplan.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: A case series of all post-marketing reports classified by experts as definite or suspected vasculitis over an 18-month period was assessed.

RESULTS: A total of 306,000 pegcetacoplan intravitreal injections were given in the real world between March 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024. Twenty-four eyes from 22 patients (mean age 76 years, 59% female) with definite or suspected vasculitis were evaluated. Comorbidities included hypertension (55%), hypothyroidism (27%), and recent COVID-19 infection (14%). Twelve eyes were classified as vasculitis with occlusion, seven as vasculitis without occlusion, and five as suspected vasculitis. Median time from intravitreal injection to symptoms was 10 days and 88% (n = 21) occurred after the first injection. Symptoms included reduced vision (71%), eye pain (33%), and elevated intraocular pressure (50%). All patients received corticosteroids and 29% received antibiotics. At last follow-up, six eyes recovered visual acuity to within one line of baseline, seven lost between 2 to 5 lines, and 11 lost 6 lines or more.

CONCLUSION: While IOI and vasculitis are rare, patients can be educated to call a retina specialist promptly if symptoms or any vision loss develop, especially within the 2 weeks following the first injection. In addition to excluding an infectious etiology, individualized management with multiroute corticosteroids can be considered.},
}

Humans
Intravitreal Injections
*Geographic Atrophy/drug therapy
Female
Visual Acuity
*Retinal Vasculitis/diagnosis/drug therapy/chemically induced
Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
Aged
*Angiogenesis Inhibitors/adverse effects
Male
*Vasculitis/drug therapy/diagnosis/chemically induced

@article {pmid42582094,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, J and Chang, J and Qu, J and Li, F and Zhang, S and Yang, Y and Zhao, T},
title = {Efficacy of supplementation with nutrients and dietary supplements on recovery and inflammatory response among patients with COVID-19: a network meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in nutrition},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1825539},
pmid = {42582094},
issn = {2296-861X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: At present, the clinical course of COVID-19 is synergistically influenced by the systemic inflammatory storm and nutritional deterioration triggered by COVID-19. Nutrition interventions have demonstrated potential clinical value.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to systematically compare the relative efficacy of different dietary patterns and nutritional supplements on key outcomes among adult patients with COVID-19, and to identify the optimal regimen of nutrition intervention.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, were systematically searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were independently screened. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2.0) tool. The inflammation status of patients was measured by alterations in indicators such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), while recovery was evaluated based on changes in the number of patients with adverse complications, including cough and death. Statistical analysis was performed in R (version 4.5.1). A random-effects model under the Bayesian framework was adopted to pool mean differences (MDs) or risk ratios (RRs) alongside their corresponding 95% credible intervals (CrIs). Additionally, regression analyses were performed for sample size, treatment duration, and disease severity of patients. The confidence in the evidence was assessed using the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis (CINeMA).

RESULTS: The efficacy of interventions varied for different immune and clinical outcomes among patients with COVID-19. Compared with standard of care (SoC) alone, vitamin C + SoC significantly decreased IL-6(vitamin C + SoC vs. SoC alone: MD = -88.77, 95% CrI: -139.02, -38.66, CINeMA: low certainty). Compared with SoC, COVID-19 patients supplemented with nanocurcumin+SoC showed a significant increase in lymphocyte count (nanocurcumin + SoC vs. SoC: MD = 4.76, 95% CrI: 2.91, 6.62, CINeMA: NA). In comparison with SoC, COVID-19 patients supplemented with pomegranate juice exhibited a marked increase in NLR (pomegranate juice + SoC vs. Placebo: MD = 1.04, 95% CrI: 0.21, 1.88, CINeMA: very low certainty).

CONCLUSION: Compared with SoC alone, significant changes were observed in IL-6, NLR, and lymphocyte count among patients suffering from COVID-19 following supplementation with nutrients and dietary supplements.

PROSPERO (CRD420251110943).},
}

@article {pmid42584103,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Y and Zhao, Y},
title = {Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Viral Diagnostics: Principles, Strategies, Clinical Challenges, and Future Directions.},
journal = {Chemical reviews},
volume = {126},
number = {15},
pages = {8694-8742},
doi = {10.1021/acs.chemrev.6c00201},
pmid = {42584103},
issn = {1520-6890},
support = {AP230A000000C009//U.S. Department of Agriculture/ ; 2023-67015-39237//National Institute of Food and Agriculture/ ; },
mesh = {*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods ; Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Viruses/isolation & purification ; Rapid Diagnostic Tests ; },
abstract = {Viral outbreaks such as SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and COVID-19 underscore the urgent need for rapid, sensitive, and scalable diagnostic technologies. Current standard methods, including nucleic acid amplification tests and immunoassays, offer complementary strengths but face limitations in cost, turnaround time, and early-stage detection. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has emerged as a promising alternative, leveraging plasmonic nanostructures to amplify weak Raman signals and provide molecular "fingerprints" of viral components with single-molecule sensitivity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of SERS-based virus detection, highlighting the fundamental principles of Raman enhancement, the role of substrates and hotspots, and analyte-specific challenges. We categorize sensing strategies into direct detection of intact viruses and components, affinity-based approaches using antibodies, aptamers, or viral receptors, and labeled methods that amplify specificity and multiplexing. Advances in nanofabrication, receptor engineering, and machine learning have significantly improved sensitivity, reproducibility, and classification accuracy, with detection limits reaching down to a few viral particles per milliliter. Despite these advances, challenges remain in handling biological complexity, ensuring reproducibility, and translating assays into clinical practice. We conclude by outlining opportunities for integrating SERS with portable devices, standardized spectral libraries, and artificial intelligence, paving the way toward rapid, robust, and deployable viral diagnostics for future pandemic preparedness.},
}

*Spectrum Analysis, Raman/methods
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Viruses/isolation & purification
Rapid Diagnostic Tests

@article {pmid42585098,
year = {2026},
author = {Bayat, A and Pavakopethan, A and Kashmar, N and Yousuf, I and Saab, A and Salem Sokhn, E and El-Lahib, Y and El Morr, C},
title = {AI-based epidemic early warning using social media and search engine signals: A scoping review.},
journal = {Health informatics journal},
volume = {32},
number = {3},
pages = {14604582261479106},
doi = {10.1177/14604582261479106},
pmid = {42585098},
issn = {1741-2811},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence/trends ; *Social Media/statistics & numerical data ; *Search Engine/methods ; Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Digital Media ; },
abstract = {BackgroundEarly detection of infectious disease outbreaks is essential for timely public health response. Artificial intelligence (AI) combined with digital traces from social media and search engines may strengthen epidemic early warning systems (EWS).ObjectiveTo map how AI-based EWS use social media and search engine signals for outbreak detection/forecasting, and to characterize whether studies integrate clinical and climate/environmental data.MethodsFollowing PRISMA-ScR, we reviewed 38 studies (past five years) across six databases. We extracted study characteristics, data sources, target diseases, prediction tasks, validation practices, and performance metrics. For cross-tabulated evidence maps, each study was coded once using its primary data-source category and primary modeling approach to avoid double-counting.ResultsDeep learning and ensemble approaches were the most common methods. COVID-19 and influenza-like illness dominated the literature. Few studies combined social media and search engine signals. Clinical and climate/environmental data were rarely integrated. No study reported prospective, real-time evaluation. Geographic coverage was skewed toward high-income settings.ConclusionAI-based epidemic early warning systems using digital signals show promise for outbreak detection and forecasting. However, the evidence remains largely retrospective, fragmented, and geographically uneven. Future research should prioritize multi-stream data integration, equity-aware design, and prospective validation to support real-world global applicability.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence/trends
*Social Media/statistics & numerical data
*Search Engine/methods
Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
COVID-19/epidemiology
Digital Media

@article {pmid42585558,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, S and Zhang, M and Ruan, C and Song, Y and Hu, X and Liu, N and Ye, J and Chen, D and Zhang, Y and Zhou, J and Li, Q and Wang, L and Shi, X and Yu, W and Luo, S},
title = {Determinants and mitigation strategies of vaccine hesitancy toward routine immunisations recommended for older adults: a systematic review.},
journal = {Age and ageing},
volume = {55},
number = {8},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/ageing/afag233},
pmid = {42585558},
issn = {1468-2834},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; Aged ; *Vaccination/psychology ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccine hesitancy among older adults has increasingly raised public concern and warrants global actions in the post-COVID-19 era. This systematic review aimed to synthesise determinants of vaccine hesitancy and related mitigation strategies toward routine vaccinations recommended for older adults (influenza, pneumococcal and shingles vaccines), which is important for promoting healthy ageing and fighting against infectious diseases during both pandemic and non-pandemic periods.

METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, a systematic literature search was conducted between November 2024 and June 2025 across Web of Science, PubMed and MEDLINE. The data were analysed by narrative synthesis guided by two theoretical frameworks.

RESULTS: A total of 72 studies were included. Most of them were conducted in developed countries, with a surge since the COVID-19 pandemic. Determinants of vaccine hesitancy were summarised from 49 studies into 3 levels, 8 themes and 24 sub-themes: individual level (sociodemographics, personal perceptions, previous experiences), group and social level (interpersonal influence, community influence, media/cultural influence) and practical issues level (willingness to pay, convenience of access). The intervention strategies were categorised from 23 studies into five types, including dialogue-based intervention, reminder/recall-based intervention, incentive-based intervention, passive intervention and multi-component intervention. Notably, this review identified a lack of conceptual clarity in distinguishing vaccine hesitancy from actual vaccination behaviours and a shortage of comprehensive interventions tailored to older adults.

CONCLUSION: Vaccine hesitancy toward routine immunisations among older adults is driven by multilayer determinants, underscoring the need for comprehensive, theory-informed and tailored interventions that address the diverse determinants.},
}

Humans
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
Aged
*Vaccination/psychology
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology

@article {pmid42585811,
year = {2026},
author = {Koonin, LM and Velez, SD and Bresee, JS},
title = {Expanding adult immunization in low- and middle-income countries through pharmacist-provided vaccination.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {90},
number = {},
pages = {129004},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.129004},
pmid = {42585811},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {Adult immunization is increasingly recognized as an essential component of life-course vaccination strategies that improve population health, promote healthy aging, and strengthen pandemic preparedness. Despite recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) to expand seasonal influenza vaccination and other adult immunization programs, vaccine coverage among adults in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) remains substantially below global targets. This shortfall is largely due to insufficient healthcare infrastructure, shortages of trained immunization providers, inadequate financing, and barriers to accessing healthcare services. Community pharmacists represent an underutilized health workforce that could substantially expand adult vaccination capacity in many LMICs. Evidence from high-income countries consistently demonstrates that pharmacist-provided vaccination improves vaccine uptake, expands access, and reduces pressure on overstretched healthcare systems. Emerging evidence from LMICs similarly suggests that pharmacist-provided vaccination is feasible, acceptable, and supported by pharmacists when appropriate regulatory frameworks, training, and operational systems are established. Pharmacists played a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic by expanding access to vaccination, testing, treatment, and public health education, demonstrating their value as health system force multipliers during public health emergencies. This review synthesizes current evidence supporting pharmacist-provided vaccination for adults in LMICs, summarizes emerging implementation experience, and discusses policy, regulatory, workforce, and operational considerations for integrating pharmacists into national immunization programs. Expanding pharmacists' role in vaccine delivery represents a practical, scalable strategy for improving adult vaccination coverage, advancing life-course immunization, and strengthening preparedness for future epidemics and pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid42587639,
year = {2026},
author = {Hetta, HF and Ahmed, R and Haseeb, A and Bukhari, SQ and Alatawi, Z and Mahrous, AJ and Elrggal, ME and Masri, MA and Kotb, AA},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Point-of-Care Testing Modalities: Integrating Molecular, Immunological, Biosensor, and AI Approaches.},
journal = {Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diagnostics16152402},
pmid = {42587639},
issn = {2075-4418},
support = {26UQU4320605GSSR03//Umm al-Qura University/ ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the critical need for rapid, accessible, and accurate diagnostic tools to support timely clinical decision-making, outbreak control, and public health surveillance. Point-of-care testing (POCT) has emerged as an essential component of decentralized healthcare by enabling diagnostic testing outside conventional laboratory settings. This review was based on a structured literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases covering studies published between January 2020 and January 2026. The review evaluates current advances in COVID-19 POCT technologies, including molecular assays, antigen-based tests, antibody-based assays, biosensor platforms, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted diagnostic approaches. Molecular POCT methods, including rapid reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and CRISPR-based technologies, provide high analytical sensitivity and specificity and are increasingly suitable for decentralized diagnostic applications. Antigen-based assays offer rapid and cost-effective screening solutions, although diagnostic performance may vary depending on viral load, symptom onset, and circulating variants. Antibody-based POCT remains valuable for seroprevalence studies, retrospective diagnosis, and immune-response monitoring rather than acute infection detection. Emerging biosensor technologies and AI-enabled diagnostic systems demonstrate promising analytical capabilities and operational advantages; however, many remain at the prototype or early-validation stage and require further clinical evaluation before widespread implementation. The findings indicate that no single POCT modality is optimal for all clinical scenarios. Instead, molecular, antigen, antibody, biosensor, and AI-assisted approaches provide complementary strengths that support different diagnostic and public health objectives. Continued advances in assay design, digital connectivity, multiplex testing, and variant-resilient detection strategies are expected to further enhance the role of POCT in COVID-19 management and future infectious disease preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid42588324,
year = {2026},
author = {Donisa, E and Roșu, ST and Roșu, VE and Cărăușu, EM},
title = {Global Trends, Inequalities, and Citation Dynamics in Burnout Research Among Healthcare Professionals: A Bibliometric Analysis (1987-2024).},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare14152356},
pmid = {42588324},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Burnout among healthcare professionals has emerged as a major occupational and organizational challenge with important implications for workforce sustainability, patient safety, and healthcare system performance. Although the scientific literature on burnout has expanded substantially, an integrated understanding of its global development, research structure, and scientific impact remains limited. This study aimed to examine the evolution, thematic development, and citation dynamics of burnout research among healthcare professionals through an integrated bibliometric approach combining science mapping, multilevel citation modelling, and critical literature synthesis. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection between 1987 and 2024. Science mapping techniques were applied using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer to evaluate publication trends, collaboration networks, thematic development, and citation patterns. In addition, a multilevel negative binomial regression model was used to identify publication characteristics associated with citation impact. Results: A total of 1232 publications were included in the analysis. Scientific production increased markedly after 2020, temporally coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic and growing scientific interest in healthcare workforce wellbeing. Research output was concentrated in high-income countries, particularly the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Physicians and nurses dominated the literature, while non-clinical healthcare workers remained underrepresented. The thematic analysis indicated an increasing emphasis on organizational and system-level determinants of burnout alongside the continued presence of individual-centered perspectives. The multilevel negative binomial model identified longer title length and a greater number of author-provided keywords as being associated with lower expected citation counts, whereas a greater number of Keywords Plus terms was associated with higher expected citation counts. Conclusions: Burnout research has evolved into a rapidly expanding and increasingly interdisciplinary field. However, important gaps persist regarding geographic representation, workforce diversity, methodological standardization, and organizational intervention research. Future studies should move beyond descriptive approaches and further evaluate organizational interventions and workforce-related strategies to strengthen the evidence base that may inform healthcare policy and organizational practice.},
}

@article {pmid42588503,
year = {2026},
author = {Bai, X and Ye, B and Gao, S and Zhan, P and Liu, X},
title = {Novel Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 Drug Resistance and Rational Design of Anti-Resistant Antivirals.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31152655},
pmid = {42588503},
issn = {1420-3049},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics ; Drug Design ; Mutation ; Coronavirus 3C Proteases/genetics/chemistry/antagonists & inhibitors ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics/chemistry/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; Exoribonucleases/metabolism/genetics ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Antiviral drug resistance in SARS-CoV-2 is increasingly limiting treatment efficacy. Four recent studies have revealed two key resistance mechanisms: (1) Mutations in the main protease (M[pro])-including E166V, E166A, and S144-series variants-disrupt drug binding or active-site conformation, reducing nirmatrelvir efficacy. (2) The proofreading exoribonuclease (ExoN) removes incorporated nucleoside analogues (e.g., bemnifosbuvir, sofosbuvir), conferring resistance. Guided by structural and pharmacological insights, three effective countermeasures have been established: structure-based optimization of M[pro] inhibitors, rational design of ExoN-evading nucleoside analogues, and synergistic combination therapies. These advances provide a solid framework for developing next-generation antivirals to combat emerging resistant SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}

Humans
*Drug Resistance, Viral/genetics/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics
Drug Design
Mutation
Coronavirus 3C Proteases/genetics/chemistry/antagonists & inhibitors
Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics/chemistry/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
Exoribonucleases/metabolism/genetics
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Betacoronavirus/drug effects

@article {pmid42589418,
year = {2026},
author = {Łętocha, A and Miastkowska, M and Sikora, E},
title = {Skin Microbiome in Health and Disease: Dysbiosis and the Emerging Role of Biotics in Therapy and Protection.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27156763},
pmid = {42589418},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Skin Microbiome ; *Dysbiosis/microbiology/therapy ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; Prebiotics/administration & dosage ; *Skin Diseases/microbiology/therapy ; Animals ; *Skin/microbiology ; COVID-19 ; Microbiota ; },
abstract = {The skin functions primarily as a protective physical shield, defending the body against harmful external factors such as invading microorganisms and toxic agents. When this barrier becomes impaired and skin microbiome homeostasis is disturbed, exacerbation of chronic skin diseases may occur, including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and acne. This issue became particularly important during the coronavirus pandemic, when it turned out that handwashing and disinfection removed not only impurities and pathogenic microorganisms but also beneficial components of the skin microbiome. This review provides a critical overview of recent advances in understanding the skin microbiome and its influence on skin health, as well as supportive therapies for the treatment of dermatoses. Contemporary therapeutic approaches focus not only on suppressing inflammatory symptoms but also on modulating the skin microbiome as part of a causal treatment strategy, in which prebiotics and probiotics play a significant role. Moreover, probiotics are also considered a valuable component of anti-aging approaches, as they may help counteract the detrimental effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the skin. By reducing oxidative stress, strengthening the epidermal barrier, and exerting immunomodulatory effects, they may complement traditional photoprotection methods. Nevertheless, further research-particularly into their long-term efficacy and safety-is essential to support their broader clinical and consumer application.},
}

Humans
*Skin Microbiome
*Dysbiosis/microbiology/therapy
Probiotics/therapeutic use
Prebiotics/administration & dosage
*Skin Diseases/microbiology/therapy
Animals
*Skin/microbiology
COVID-19
Microbiota

@article {pmid42589484,
year = {2026},
author = {Mitev, V},
title = {Targeting the NLRP3 Inflammasome with Colchicine in COVID-19: Therapeutic Evidence and Future Implications for Influenza.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27156827},
pmid = {42589484},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {BG-RRP-2.004-0004-C01//Bulgarian National Science Fund/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Colchicine/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; *Inflammasomes/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; COVID-19 ; *Influenza, Human/drug therapy/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/immunology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/immunology ; Animals ; Pandemics ; Betacoronavirus ; Cytokine Release Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and influenza share key pathogenic mechanisms, including viral invasion, dysregulated innate immune activation, and the development of severe systemic complications. A central mediator of disease progression in both infections is the hyperactivation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which drives excessive production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, immunothrombosis, multiorgan injury, and increased mortality. Colchicine possesses a unique pharmacokinetic property of preferential accumulation within myeloid cells, where sufficiently high intracellular concentrations inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation. This mechanism provides a biological rationale for preventing the cytokine storm and its downstream consequences when colchicine is administered early during infection. Available pharmacokinetic, toxicological, and clinical evidence suggests that loading doses of colchicine up to approximately 0.05 mg/kg body weight can be administered safely in appropriately selected patients, provided that clinically significant drug-drug interactions and hepatic or renal impairment are carefully excluded. The widely accepted belief that total doses of 7-7.5 mg are inherently lethal appears to reflect historical cases complicated by drug interactions and/or hepatic or renal impairment, rather than toxicity attributable to colchicine dose alone. These observations support reconsideration of current guideline recommendations regarding colchicine dosing. In particular, cumulative doses below 0.1 mg/kg appear to be consistently safe, whereas doses between 0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg are associated with only a low risk of toxicity and rarely with severe intoxication. Reassessment of colchicine dosing strategies may therefore be warranted to optimize NLRP3 inflammasome inhibition and improve outcomes in patients with COVID-19 and influenza.},
}

Humans
*Colchicine/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
*Inflammasomes/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors
COVID-19
*Influenza, Human/drug therapy/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/immunology
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/immunology
Animals
Pandemics
Betacoronavirus
Cytokine Release Syndrome

@article {pmid42589551,
year = {2026},
author = {Marek-Józefowicz, L and Borkowska, A and Nedoszytko, B and Cubała, WJ and Purzycka-Bohdan, D and Bohdan, M},
title = {Neurodegenerative and Cognitive Consequences of Long COVID.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {15},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27156897},
pmid = {42589551},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/pathology/virology ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/etiology/virology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology/virology ; Blood-Brain Barrier ; },
abstract = {The SARS-CoV-2 virus has infected approximately 778 million people worldwide since the pandemic. Patients who have survived coronavirus disease (COVID-19) may experience long-term symptoms related to cognitive deficits, mood changes, and depressive disorders. The mechanisms underlying the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the brain are being actively investigated. SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers various mechanisms, such as hyperstimulation of the immune response, which may lead to changes in the central nervous system. In this article, we review the evidence linking COVID-19 to neurodegenerative disorders and cognitive impairment. Current research indicates that patients with pre-existing cognitive and neuropsychiatric deficits have a poorer prognosis after SARS-CoV-2 infection, and patients who have survived COVID-19 may be at increased risk of developing dementia and mood disorders. We analyse the available evidence regarding SARS-CoV-2 brain infection, induction of inflammation, coagulopathy, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction as possible mechanisms underlying the disorders in the acute phase of COVID-19 disease and contributing to the development of neurodegenerative disorders in long COVID. Viral infection can trigger inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS), leading to damage and contributing to the development of cognitive dysfunction.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/pathology/virology
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/etiology/virology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology/virology
Blood-Brain Barrier

@article {pmid42591297,
year = {2026},
author = {Luque-Bolivar, A and Ruiz-Araujo, K and Aristizábal-Pachón, AF and González, J},
title = {Integrated meta-analysis of human astrocytes transcriptomes reveals a candidate recurrent inflammatory signature in response to inflammatory and immune stimuli.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular neuroscience},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {1870142},
pmid = {42591297},
issn = {1662-5102},
abstract = {Astrocytes are key regulators of inflammatory and immune responses in the central nervous system, particularly under pathological conditions. We conducted a systematic search of the NCBI GEO and ENA databases to identify transcriptomic studies of stimulated astrocytes. This meta-analysis integrates 11 RNA-Seq datasets, encompassing a total of 153 samples (91 stimulated, and 62 controls) exposed to pro-inflammatory stimuli such as cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β), palmitic acid, and pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 and Borrelia burgdorferi. Through robust rank aggregation (RRA), we identified 130 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), including 125 upregulated and 5 downregulated. Functional enrichment analyses revealed that these DEGs are primarily involved in immune and inflammatory pathways, such as cytokine signaling, interferon responses, and NF-κB activation. Network analysis revealed five hub nodes, CXCL10, DDX58, IFIH1, IL-1β, and TLR3, underscoring their importance in astrocytic inflammatory signaling. These findings emphasize the ability of astrocytes to act as immunocompetent cells that coordinate inflammatory responses through mechanisms such as the NOD-like receptor and NF-κB pathways. Although chronic activation of NF-κB has been linked to inflammation, this pathway also plays essential roles in synaptic plasticity. Moreover, the consistent upregulation of DDX58 and IFIH1 across varied inflammatory stimuli suggests that astrocytes transition into a common 'reactive' state that may contribute to chronic neuroinflammation. This study identifies a candidate gene signature and underscores the dual protective and pathological roles of astrocytes in inflammatory processes.},
}

@article {pmid42592512,
year = {2026},
author = {Patel, R and Nguyen, AT and Malone, J and Aguirre, JE and Gopalakrishna, H},
title = {Secondary sclerosing cholangitis: contemporary etiologies, diagnostic pathways, and treatment strategies for clinicians: a narrative review.},
journal = {Translational gastroenterology and hepatology},
volume = {11},
number = {},
pages = {92},
pmid = {42592512},
issn = {2415-1289},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Secondary sclerosing cholangitis (SSC) comprises a heterogeneous group of identifiable etiologies causing inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts. Given that SSC often progresses more rapidly than primary sclerosing cholangitis and treatment is frequently etiology-directed, early recognition is critical. In this narrative review, we summarize contemporary causes of SSC and propose a diagnostic and management approach for clinicians.

METHODS: We performed a narrative literature review using PubMed search with medical subject headings (MeSH) and free text terms for SSC and key etiologies, including critical illness/ischemic cholangiopathy, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), infectious, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated cholangiopathy, immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4)-related/eosinophilic cholangitis, drug-induced cholangiopathy, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and ketamine, malignancy-associated, and post-procedural ischemic injury. The search included randomized trials, observation studies, case reports, case series, and practice guidelines. Two reviewers independently screened studies, reviewed full texts, and synthesized findings by etiology.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: SSC following ischemic injury in critically ill patients (SSC-CIP) accounted for a significant portion of the recent literature, which presents with persistent cholestatic liver injury after intensive care unit (ICU) recovery. Infectious causes include recurrent pyogenic cholangitis, parasitic disease, HIV-related, and, most notably, given the recent pandemic, post-COVID-19 cholangiopathy. Infectious etiologies mirror SSC-CIP and may often progress to liver failure. Immune-related SSC [IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC) and eosinophilic cholangitis] requires targeted serologies, tissue confirmation with biopsy, and typically responds briskly to corticosteroids. Drug-induced SSC is increasingly linked to immune checkpoint inhibitors, given their rise in use, as well as ketamine, and may be steroid refractory. SSC associated with malignancy requires cross-sectional imaging and tissue diagnosis. Endoscopic therapy may palliate obstruction, but liver transplantation is the definitive option for advanced disease.

CONCLUSIONS: Given its diverse etiologies, SSC requires a structured evaluation that integrates exposure history, laboratory investigations, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)/endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) patterns, and histology for diagnosis. Etiology-specific therapy may slow progression, but early transplant referral is critical for rapidly progressive phenotypes.},
}

@article {pmid42592525,
year = {2026},
author = {Roy, A and Yang, Y and Du, L},
title = {Nanobodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
journal = {Acta pharmaceutica Sinica. B},
volume = {16},
number = {8},
pages = {4978-4997},
pmid = {42592525},
issn = {2211-3835},
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), a beta-coronavirus, caused the recent global Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Among the virus-encoded proteins, the surface spike (S) protein is critical for viral entry, membrane fusion, and pathogenesis, and its receptor-binding domain (RBD) initiates viral entry by binding to a cellular receptor. This makes the S an important therapeutic target for COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 mutates frequently, giving rise to five major variants of concern, among which the Omicron variant and its subvariants are less sensitive to current therapeutic antibodies. The first part of this review describes the main protein constituents of SARS-CoV-2 and their functions, the S protein-mediated viral entry and fusion processes, and the main SARS-CoV-2 variants. Nanobodies are single-domain antibodies with high target-binding affinity, strong stability, and low production costs, whose small size facilitates their access to protein regions that are inaccessible to conventional antibodies. Thus, in the second part, we comprehensively review SARS-CoV-2-targeting nanobodies, including those that bind specifically to the RBDs of the S proteins, non-RBD S proteins, and non-S proteins of variants and subvariants of SARS-CoV-2, with the hope that this information will be valuable for the generation of novel SARS-CoV-2-targeting nanobodies with improved potency against COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid42592984,
year = {2026},
author = {Doka, G and Aliçka, Y and Tahiraj, D and Elezi, B and Gega, V and Sula, E},
title = {The role of telehealth in autism spectrum disorder management: a scoping review.},
journal = {Medicinski glasnik : official publication of the Medical Association of Zenica-Doboj Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.17392/medglas-2179-23-2},
pmid = {42592984},
issn = {1840-2445},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine ; *Autism Spectrum Disorder/therapy/diagnosis ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {AIM: To map and summarise evidence on the role, benefits and challenges of telehealth in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) management, including assessment and intervention.

METHODS: This scoping review searched PubMed and Scopus for English-language studies published from 2015 to 2025; the search was last updated on 14 April 2026. Nine studies met the eligibility criteria, comprising randomised controlled trials and observational, mixed-methods, descriptive, pilot, and qualitative studies.

RESULTS: Available findings suggest that telehealth-based assessment may achieve high diagnostic concordance with in-person evaluation, and that telehealth-delivered interventions may yield similar outcomes in selected domains. Several studies reported high caregiver and clinician satisfaction. Key challenges included technological access barriers, variability in caregiver engagement, and concerns regarding reliability and equity in under-resourced settings.

CONCLUSION: Telehealth may be a valuable complement to, rather than a replacement for, in-person care. Future primary studies should use rigorous designs and standardised outcome measures and should prioritise linguistically diverse and low-resource populations; future evidence syntheses should include formal risk-of-bias assessment.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine
*Autism Spectrum Disorder/therapy/diagnosis
Digital Health

@article {pmid42593075,
year = {2026},
author = {Pfefferbaum, B and Newman, E and Nitiema, P and Slaughter, A},
title = {Practice Elements in Targeted and Universal Child Mass Trauma Interventions.},
journal = {Trauma, violence & abuse},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15248380261473929},
doi = {10.1177/15248380261473929},
pmid = {42593075},
issn = {1552-8324},
abstract = {Many child mass trauma interventions are a composite of multiple practice elements which commonly are not well identified or assessed in the treatment outcome research. Understanding the practice elements used for targeted (samples of children with direct exposure, intense experiences, and/or serious reactions) and universal (general samples without consideration of exposure or reactions) populations can help clarify future directions for intervention development and delivery. A systematic review of 84 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs identified 131 psychosocial interventions addressing mass trauma. The current analysis compared frequently used elements delivered to targeted and universal populations and examined the populations served across context (country income), event types (including the COVID-19 epidemic), delivery modes, and delivery settings. Reflecting the importance of accessible interventions for those with the greatest need, most child mass trauma interventions overall were administered to targeted populations in group applications delivered in schools or other community settings. Psychoeducation for the child, affect modulation, and relaxation were the most frequently offered elements for both targeted and universal populations. Exposure, narrative, and psychoeducation for the caregiver were administered more often in targeted than universal populations while social skills training, mindfulness, self-praise, and communication skills training were administered more often in universal populations. Future evaluation research should identify, describe, and evaluate specific practice elements included in interventions in the two populations and should address concerns related to certain groups of children receiving interventions and to aspects of intervention delivery.},
}

@article {pmid42593538,
year = {2026},
author = {Daoud, T and Villar, J and Annane, D},
title = {Corticosteroids in ARDS: old controversies, new insights, and future directions.},
journal = {Intensive care medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42593538},
issn = {1432-1238},
support = {ANR-18-RHUS-0004//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; ANR-23-IAHU-0004//Agence Nationale de la Recherche/ ; iRECORDS JTC_2021//EraPerMed/ ; },
abstract = {Corticosteroids modulate key inflammatory and fibroproliferative pathways involved in ARDS through genomic and non-genomic glucocorticoid receptor signaling. Advances in ARDS pathophysiology have highlighted the importance of timing, inflammatory burden, and host response in determining treatment efficacy. Clinical evidence supports corticosteroid use in moderate-to-severe ARDS, particularly in COVID-19 ARDS and severe community-acquired pneumonia, with reductions in mortality and duration of mechanical ventilation. However, treatment effects remain heterogeneous across etiologies and biological subphenotypes. Recent identification of hyperinflammatory and hypoinflammatory ARDS phenotypes suggests that corticosteroid responsiveness is not uniform. Hyperinflammatory phenotypes and septic ARDS appear more likely to benefit, whereas evidence remains limited or conflicting in influenza-associated and non-septic ARDS. Long-term effects and adverse outcomes, including metabolic complications and ICU-acquired weakness, remain insufficiently characterized. Future research is increasingly focused on precision medicine approaches integrating biomarkers, adaptive platform trials, and phenotype-guided strategies. Emerging developments include lung-targeted corticosteroid delivery systems and selective glucocorticoid receptor modulators designed to improve efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. Corticosteroids should therefore be considered a context-dependent therapy whose benefit is influenced by etiology, disease stage, inflammatory phenotype, and timing of administration.},
}

@article {pmid41623157,
year = {2026},
author = {Klimek, L and Mullol, J and Hummel, T and Del Giacco, S and Georgalas, C and Rondon, C and Schiappoli, M and Gevaert, P and Bozkurt, B and Chaker, A and Reitsma, S and van Gerven, L and Maza-Solano, J and Lundberg, M and Becker, S and Bärhold, F and Karavelia, A and Cuevas, M and Gröger, M and Huber, P and Arasi, S and Cingi, C and Rojas-Lechuga, MJ and Izquierdo-Domínguez, A and Agache, I and Gawlik, R and Sokolowska, M and Adcock, I and Celik, G and Escribese, M and Walusiak-Skorupa, J and Betz, C and Palomares, O and Moreira, A and Bonadonna, P and Shamji, M and Torres Jaen, MJ and Akdis, CA and Hagemann, J and Hox, V and Toppila-Salmi, S},
title = {The Unmet Need of Olfactory Testing in Inflammatory Disorders of the Upper Airways-An EAACI Position Paper.},
journal = {Allergy},
volume = {81},
number = {8},
pages = {2633-2655},
pmid = {41623157},
issn = {1398-9995},
support = {//European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Olfaction Disorders/diagnosis/etiology/epidemiology ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Smell ; Anosmia/diagnosis ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/complications ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The sense of smell, with its extensive evolutionary history, is highly prone to disorders that can have a profound impact on daily life. Anosmia affects approximately 5% of the population, with an additional 15% exhibiting reduced olfactory function. The prevalence of olfactory dysfunction (OD) varies by population and age group, and standardized testing reveals a broad range of impacts. OD includes various causes, most commonly aging, inflammation of the olfactory epithelium, upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), traumatic brain injury, and neurological conditions. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the association between viral infections and olfactory dysfunction, with severe hyposmia/anosmia being an early marker of infection. Despite its importance, the assessment of olfactory function remains inconsistent across clinical practices. Psychophysical smell tests, while vital for diagnosis and patient management, are underutilized, especially outside of specialized centers. Standardized testing methods are crucial for objective diagnosis, but significant challenges, including test variability, lack of comparability, and healthcare reimbursement issues, persist. The European Academy of Allergy and Immunology (EAACI) advocates for improvements in the quality and standardization of chemosensory assessments. Future efforts must prioritize education, incentives for better testing, and the integration of digital tools to expand access to olfactory testing and diagnosis in remote or quarantine situations. However, office-based testing remains irreplaceable, even with advancements in telemedicine.},
}

Humans
*Olfaction Disorders/diagnosis/etiology/epidemiology
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Smell
Anosmia/diagnosis
*Respiratory Tract Infections/complications
Pandemics

@article {pmid41823158,
year = {2026},
author = {Batarfi, M and Alraddadi, A},
title = {Adaptations and innovations in histology and embryology education during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.},
journal = {Folia morphologica},
volume = {85},
number = {},
pages = {e01726122},
doi = {10.5603/fm.106914},
pmid = {41823158},
issn = {1644-3284},
mesh = {*Embryology/education ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Education, Distance ; *Histology/education ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As an alternative to traditional teaching, online education enabled the continuity of histology and embryology learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review explores the new tools adopted for histology and embryology education during the pandemic and examines students' perceptions, acceptance, and engagement with e-learning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This systematic review followed the PRISMA guidelines by searching six databases: PubMed, Cochrane Reviews, MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist to assess the quality of the included studies.

RESULTS: Of the 338 studies initially identified, 26 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies reported positive perceptions, with the availability of technology, the pedagogical setup of the online course, and schedule autonomy being the most common reasons. However, the negative views identified concerned limited face-to-face interaction with instructors, interruptions in internet connectivity, and technical issues. Students' perception, acceptance, attendance, and engagement in online education were favorable, as reflected in positive findings on their performance.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, students' perception of online histology and embryology courses during the COVID-19 lockdown was positive, with some areas identified for further improvement. Additional research is needed to assess educators' perceptions of histology and embryology education during the pandemic.},
}

*Embryology/education
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Education, Distance
*Histology/education
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology

@article {pmid42320559,
year = {2026},
author = {Thomas, N and Huang, K and Schneider-Futschik, EK and Pollack, B and Tal, MC and Fineberg, D and Wang, X and Gurvich, C and Pretorius, R and Bergquist, J and Armstrong, CW},
title = {Systems neuroendocrinology in ME/CFS and long COVID: a chronobiological framework for hormone-based research.},
journal = {Frontiers in neuroendocrinology},
volume = {82},
number = {},
pages = {101268},
doi = {10.1016/j.yfrne.2026.101268},
pmid = {42320559},
issn = {1095-6808},
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Circadian Rhythm/physiology ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/physiopathology/metabolism ; Neuroendocrinology ; Female ; *Neurosecretory Systems/physiopathology/metabolism ; *Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/physiopathology/metabolism ; *Hormones/metabolism ; Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis ; Menstrual Cycle/physiology ; },
abstract = {Hormonal dysregulation is increasingly reported in ME/CFS and Long COVID, yet the broader role of neuroendocrine disruption in these conditions remains underexplored. While changes in steroid, peptide, and neuropeptide hormones have been identified, these findings are often considered in isolation and without attention to their timing or integration within broader physiological systems. The hypothalamic-pituitary axes regulate endocrine, immune, autonomic, nervous, and metabolic functions, systems commonly affected in both conditions, yet their circadian and menstrual dynamics are rarely investigated. In this review, we examine the evidence for neuroendocrine dysfunction in ME/CFS and Long COVID, focusing on hormone output, functional assays, receptor expression, and the coordination of endocrine biorhythms. Sex hormone signalling emerges as a key area of vulnerability, particularly given the female predominance in both conditions and the complexity of reproductive hormone regulation. We argue that accurate hormone measurement and time-structured sampling, including circadian and menstrual rhythms, are essential for detecting meaningful biological differences. By embedding chronobiology-aware, dense-sampling strategies and integrating multi-omic analyses into multi-system study designs, we outline a framework for investigating dynamic endocrine mechanisms underlying symptom variability and multisystem dysfunction, which may ultimately support the development of more targeted, personalised interventions.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Circadian Rhythm/physiology
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/physiopathology/metabolism
Neuroendocrinology
Female
*Neurosecretory Systems/physiopathology/metabolism
*Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System/physiopathology/metabolism
*Hormones/metabolism
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis
Menstrual Cycle/physiology

@article {pmid42335758,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Z and Wang, X and Hu, Y and Duan, X and Xu, S and Ge, Q and Zhu, W and Zhao, J and Yao, Y and Wang, W},
title = {Burden of infection and hospitalization from respiratory syncytial virus-associated acute lower respiratory tract infections in Chinese children: Modeling of national, regional, and provincial estimates.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {88},
number = {},
pages = {128875},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128875},
pmid = {42335758},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Child, Preschool ; Humans ; Infant ; Infant, Newborn ; China/epidemiology ; Cost of Illness ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; Incidence ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology ; Risk Factors ; Seasons ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRIs) in children. To guide policymaking on controlling RSV-associated ALRIs (RSV-ALRIs) in China, we estimated the national, regional, and provincial burdens of RSV-ALRIs and associated hospitalizations for children under 5 years old.

METHODS: We systematically identified publications about RSV-ALRIs in China with epidemiological data before 2020. We compared seasonality data from this period with data during the COVID-19 epidemic. We built a dataset to assess RSV-ALRI burden by age and region, using a generalized linear mixed-effects model and a conceptual proportionality framework to assess hospitalization rates. A risk factor-based model were used to estimate regional and provincial RSV-ALRI incidence.

FINDINGS: Children aged 0 to 12 months had the highest risk of RSV-ALRI and associated hospitalization. Provincial variations existed, with some southern provinces exhibiting higher incidence and some western provinces higher hospitalization rates. The COVID-19 epidemic shifted RSV hospitalization peaks to early autumn (Guangdong, Shanghai), whereas Hubei and Shandong demonstrated delayed peak onset compared with the pre-pandemic period.

INTERPRETATION: Our study of the burden RSV-ALRIs in China identified obvious heterogeneity by age and region. These findings highlight the need for targeted RSV vaccination strategies and resource allocation prioritizing high-risk groups and areas.

FUNDING: This work was supported by the Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Major Project (Grant No. ZD2021CY001), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 82073612), and Shanghai New Three-year Action Plan for Public Health (GWVI-1, GWVI-11.1-03 and GWVI-11.1-01).},
}

Child, Preschool
Humans
Infant
Infant, Newborn
China/epidemiology
Cost of Illness
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
Incidence
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology
Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology
Risk Factors
Seasons

@article {pmid42341950,
year = {2026},
author = {Giunta, S and Sabbatinelli, J and Olivieri, F and Giuliani, A},
title = {Aging-related autonomic nervous system imbalance and adrenergic regulation of immunity: Implications for inflammaging, autoimmunity, and long COVID.},
journal = {Frontiers in neuroendocrinology},
volume = {82},
number = {},
pages = {101269},
doi = {10.1016/j.yfrne.2026.101269},
pmid = {42341950},
issn = {1095-6808},
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Aging/immunology ; *Autoimmunity/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19/immunology/physiopathology ; *Autonomic Nervous System/immunology/physiopathology ; *Inflammation/immunology/physiopathology ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/physiopathology ; Th17 Cells/immunology ; },
abstract = {The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a central role in immune homeostasis by integrating sympathetic and parasympathetic signals that regulate inflammation, immune cell trafficking, and tolerance. Aging is associated with a progressive autonomic imbalance characterized by sympathetic overactivation, reduced parasympathetic tone, and impaired β-adrenergic signaling in immune cells, which together contribute to inflammaging and immune dysregulation. In this review, we discuss how aging-related alterations in adrenergic pathways affect immune cell differentiation and cytokine networks, with particular emphasis on β2-adrenergic control of the Th17/regulatory T cell balance through cAMP-dependent mechanisms interacting with cytokine-driven STAT signaling. Chronic sympathetic stimulation and β-adrenergic desensitization weaken these regulatory constraints, favoring pro-inflammatory immune trajectories and loss of immune tolerance. Finally, we propose Long COVID as a paradigmatic condition in which pre-existing inflammaging and autonomic vulnerability are amplified by viral infection, leading to persistent inflammation, impaired immune regulation, and increased susceptibility to autoimmune manifestations.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Aging/immunology
*Autoimmunity/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19/immunology/physiopathology
*Autonomic Nervous System/immunology/physiopathology
*Inflammation/immunology/physiopathology
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/physiopathology
Th17 Cells/immunology

@article {pmid42577662,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohee, K and Antoun, I and Ambrogetti, R and Eldesouky, M and Somani, R and Ng, A and Bhandari, SS},
title = {Myocarditis in the Modern Era: Navigating Diagnosis, Innovative Treatments, the COVID-19 Challenge and the Role of Artificial Intelligence.},
journal = {Cardiology research and practice},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {5956965},
pmid = {42577662},
issn = {2090-8016},
abstract = {Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the myocardium with diverse aetiologies, ranging from infections and autoimmune processes to drug-induced reactions. Clinical manifestations vary widely from mild chest discomfort to life-threatening complications such as acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock and sudden cardiac death. Although the diagnosis of myocarditis historically relied heavily on invasive biopsy, recent advances in noninvasive imaging modalities, notably cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, have transformed clinical practice. The Lake Louise Criteria (LLC), supplemented by parametric imaging techniques, have significantly enhanced diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, the emergence of COVID-19 has renewed interest in myocarditis due to its association with viral-induced myocardial injury. This review synthesises the current understanding of myocarditis, including epidemiological insights, its diverse aetiologies, diagnostic innovations including the importance of viral load quantification and contemporary management strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42578412,
year = {2026},
author = {Soultanopoulos, GC and Idzenga, JJ and Kamperman, AM and van Pampus, MG and Ket, JCF and Henrichs, J and Verhoeven, CJM},
title = {Psychological interventions to improve maternal mental health and resilience during pregnancy in the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynaecology},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {2714888},
doi = {10.1080/0167482X.2026.2714888},
pmid = {42578412},
issn = {1743-8942},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Resilience, Psychological ; *Psychosocial Intervention/methods ; Mental Health ; *Pregnant People/psychology ; *Pregnancy Complications/therapy/psychology ; *Stress, Psychological/therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, pregnant women experienced increased psychological distress, while access to routine mental health care was often disrupted. Psychological interventions may provide an effective strategy to support maternal mental health under these circumstances.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to provide an overview of psychological interventions for pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic and to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing distress and enhancing resilience.

METHODS: A systematic search of four databases was conducted up to 3 September 2025. Randomised and non-randomised studies evaluating psychological interventions during pregnancy were included.

RESULTS: Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Interventions included cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, psychoeducation, and other psychological approaches delivered through individual, group, digital, or hybrid formats. Most studies reported reductions in depression, anxiety, or stress, and some found improvements in resilience-related factors. However, the methodological quality was modest; with heterogeneous outcome measures and limited follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, psychological interventions adapted for digital or hybrid delivery show promise for improving maternal emotional well-being in times of crises. The findings suggest that accessible and scalable psychological interventions may support maternal mental health during crisis situations when routine care is disrupted. Future research should prioritize larger, methodologically rigorous trials with standardized outcomes, and longer follow-up periods.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*COVID-19/psychology
*Resilience, Psychological
*Psychosocial Intervention/methods
Mental Health
*Pregnant People/psychology
*Pregnancy Complications/therapy/psychology
*Stress, Psychological/therapy

@article {pmid42579217,
year = {2026},
author = {Jawaid, I and Lanca, C},
title = {Low-Concentration Atropine for Myopia Management: Recent Evidence and Clinical Implications.},
journal = {Ophthalmology and therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42579217},
issn = {2193-8245},
abstract = {We conducted a narrative review of peer-reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating low-concentration atropine for myopia management. Studies were identified using the terms "myopia" AND "atropine" and supplemented through reference searches. Key data on spherical equivalent refraction (SER), axial length (AL) progression, participant demographics, and ethnicity were extracted and qualitatively compared across trials. In addition, observed AL progression was contextualized against expected age-matched myopic axial elongation and physiological emmetropic eye growth derived from previously published normative models. Evidence from pivotal trials such as ATOM and LAMP, mainly conducted in Asian populations, demonstrated dose-dependent efficacy of atropine, with 0.05% showing superior outcomes compared with 0.01%. However, more recent studies in non-Asian populations, including STAR, MOSAIC, WA-ATOM, and MTS, have reported more modest treatment effects with 0.01% atropine. Differences in efficacy appear influenced by factors including age, ethnicity, baseline progression rates, environmental exposures, and placebo-group axial elongation rates. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic also impacted outcomes in several trials, highlighting environmental influences on myopia progression. In addition, off-protocol use of myopia-control interventions in studies such as CHAMP further complicates interpretation of atropine efficacy. While low-concentration atropine remains a promising option for myopia management, rebound progression after cessation remains a concern. Emerging evidence suggests that future research should look at higher atropine concentrations, individualized treatment strategies, and comparisons against normative ocular growth trajectories rather than placebo alone. Licensed atropine formulations, particularly within Europe, are anticipated to improve treatment standardization, support regulatory oversight, and help refine future clinical guidelines for myopia management.},
}

@article {pmid42580608,
year = {2026},
author = {Napolitano, F and Montuori, N},
title = {suPAR as a circulating inflammatory biomarker: time for translation into clinical practice - A systematic review.},
journal = {Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {121260},
doi = {10.1016/j.cca.2026.121260},
pmid = {42580608},
issn = {1873-3492},
abstract = {Urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell surface receptor composed of three homologous domains (DI, DII, and DIII), forming a flexible structure that mediates interactions with multiple ligands. Through these interactions, uPAR plays a key role in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, cell invasion, proliferation, and migration, making it a promising therapeutic target in various diseases. In addition to its membrane-bound form, uPAR can be released into circulation following cleavage of its GPI anchor, generating soluble uPAR (suPAR), which is detectable in blood, serum, plasma, urine, and other biological fluids. Proteolytic cleavage within the linker region between domains I and II produces three main isoforms: full-length suPAR (suPARI-III), suPAR domain I (suPARDI), and suPAR domains II-III (suPARDII-III). suPAR has been extensively investigated as a biomarker of systemic chronic inflammation across multiple conditions. During COVID-19 pandemic, suPAR gained attention as a predictor of disease severity and mortality in acute patients, reinforcing its role as a marker of sepsis. Elevated suPAR levels have also been reported in diseases such as systemic sclerosis (SSc), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and various malignancies, supporting its diagnostic and prognostic value. Several analytical methods are currently available for suPAR quantification, including ELISA, turbidimetric immunoassays, and chemiluminescence immunoassays. However, these assays differ in their ability to detect specific isoforms, which may vary in biological and clinical significance. This review summarizes the clinical relevance of suPAR, examines the functional roles of its isoforms, and evaluates current detection methods and their implications for clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid42580773,
year = {2026},
author = {van Susante-Oost, LJ and Mastebroek, M and Koks-Leensen, MCJ and Timen, A and Leusink, GL and Cuypers, M},
title = {Disease burden of viral respiratory infections in people with intellectual disabilities: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMJ open respiratory research},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjresp-2025-004082},
pmid = {42580773},
issn = {2052-4439},
mesh = {Humans ; *Intellectual Disability/epidemiology/complications ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Cost of Illness ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; Quality of Life ; Comorbidity ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Viral respiratory infections are highly contagious and associated with an increased risk of serious adverse health outcomes in vulnerable populations, including people with intellectual disabilities. However, little is known about the overall disease burden of viral respiratory infections among people with intellectual disabilities.

AIM: This scoping review aims to provide an overview of the existing literature on the disease burden of viral respiratory infections among people with intellectual disabilities.

METHODS: Studies published between 1999 and 10 July 2024, were identified through PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Web of Science, and included if focused on adults with intellectual disabilities, viral respiratory infections and relevant health outcomes such as infection rate, mortality, hospitalisation, functional impairments or quality of life.

RESULTS: 58 articles were included, of which the majority focused on COVID-19 (42/58) or influenza (13/58). Studies varied in their methodology and outcome measures. Evidence on COVID-19 and influenza showed that people with intellectual disabilities experience a higher disease burden from these infections compared with the general population. Particularly disproportionate effects were evident among people with Down syndrome, who had higher mortality estimates and an increased burden of comorbidities associated with severe disease and death.

CONCLUSION: Although available evidence appeared limited and diverse, this scoping review shows a higher disease burden in people with intellectual disabilities, in particular for COVID-19 and influenza-type viruses, which can be indicative of the impact of other viral respiratory infections as well. This highlights the importance of measures to prevent and control the spread of respiratory pathogens among this group.},
}

Humans
*Intellectual Disability/epidemiology/complications
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Cost of Illness
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology
Quality of Life
Comorbidity
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42581338,
year = {2026},
author = {Omer, SH and Mahmood, MK and Gul, SS and Amin, YMM and Lan, R},
title = {Association Between Periodontitis and Respiratory Diseases: A Systematic Umbrella Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Oral diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/odi.70448},
pmid = {42581338},
issn = {1601-0825},
abstract = {AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the association between periodontitis and respiratory diseases using an umbrella meta-analysis.

METHODS: Meta-analyses (MAs) reporting odds ratios (OR) and mean differences (MD) for the association between periodontitis and respiratory diseases of COVID-19, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and pneumonia were included. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed. Egger's test and trim-and-fill method were used to assess publication bias.

RESULTS: Fourteen MAs encompassing more than 500,000 participants were included. A significant association was found between periodontitis and respiratory disease (OR 2.45, 95% CI 2.06-2.92, p < 0.0001), with substantial heterogeneity (I[2] = 82%). The pooled OR for the association between periodontitis with COVID-19, COPD, asthma, and pneumonia was 2.75, 1.42, 3.42, and 2.73, respectively. The association remained consistent even after adjustment for publication bias and among different study qualities and sample sizes. Notably, the association with COPD may not be independent of smoking. The GRADE assessment rated the certainty of evidence of the outcomes as "low" due to high heterogeneity and publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest a statistical association between periodontitis and most of the studied respiratory diseases. However, these results should be interpreted with caution and be seen as exploratory and hypothesis-generating, rather than definitive effect sizes.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION: CRD420251250830.},
}

@article {pmid40849756,
year = {2026},
author = {Voltan, G and Graziani, A and Torchio, M and Mian, C and Betterle, C and Sabbadin, C},
title = {An Intriguing Case Report of Type 2 Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndrome Post-SARS-CoV-2: Cause or Coincidence?.},
journal = {Endocrine, metabolic & immune disorders drug targets},
volume = {26},
number = {},
pages = {e18715303407830},
doi = {10.2174/0118715303407830250807114958},
pmid = {40849756},
issn = {2212-3873},
mesh = {Humans ; *Polyendocrinopathies, Autoimmune/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/immunology ; Male ; Adult ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Addison Disease ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is primarily associated with respiratory illness but can also affect multiple organ systems, including the endocrine system. Viral entry into endocrine tissues may lead to immune activation and trigger or unmask autoimmune conditions in individuals who are genetically predisposed. Autoimmune Polyendocrine Syndrome type 2 (APS-2), a rare disorder characterized by autoimmune Addison’s disease (AAD) and autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD), may represent one such manifestation.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 36-year-old male who developed APS-2 following a mild SARS-CoV-2 infection. Two months post-infection, the patient experienced asthenia, hypotension, gastrointestinal symptoms, and weight loss. Laboratory investigations revealed undetectable morning cortisol, positive 21-hydroxylase and thyroid-peroxidase autoantibodies, elevated ACTH and renin, and subclinical hypothyroidism—consistent with a diagnosis of APS-2 (AAD and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis). Treatment with cortisone acetate and fludrocortisone led to clinical improvement. No previous history of autoimmune disease was reported. A review of the literature identified only four similar case reports, with varying timelines between SARS-CoV-2 infection and APS-2 diagnosis, suggesting that the infection may act as a trigger in predisposed individuals.

CONCLUSION: This case adds to limited evidence suggesting a possible link between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the onset or unmasking of APS-2. While a direct causal role of the virus remains uncertain, SARS-CoV-2 may function as an environmental trigger, accelerating the transition from subclinical to clinical autoimmunity in genetically susceptible patients. This observation supports the need for clinical vigilance in post-COVID-19 patients presenting with nonspecific but suggestive endocrine symptoms.},
}

Humans
*Polyendocrinopathies, Autoimmune/diagnosis/etiology/drug therapy/immunology
Male
Adult
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
Addison Disease

@article {pmid42237329,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeniecki, P and Kamens, R and Kilpatrick, J and Papanagnou, D and Zhang, XC},
title = {Screen-based simulation assessment for emergency medicine learners: a rapid review.},
journal = {BMC medical education},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42237329},
issn = {1472-6920},
mesh = {*Emergency Medicine/education ; Humans ; *Clinical Competence ; *Simulation Training/methods ; *Educational Measurement/methods ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Computer Simulation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Simulation has played a vital role in training medical professionals. The COVID-19 Pandemic has highlighted the need for physically distant educational assessment methods. Screen-based simulation (SBS) demonstrates one alternative to traditional in-person simulation methods to assess learners clinical reasoning and communication skills. This study aims to compare in-person simulation to SBS as assessment methods in Emergency Medicine (EM).

METHODS: A rapid review literature search methodology of an electronic database (PubMed) was performed in February 2022 with search terms such as "Computer Simulation," "Patient Simulation," "Simulation Training," "Education, Distance," "Virtual OSCE," "Academic Performance," or "Emergency Medicine." Reference lists of relevant articles were manually analyzed for additional studies. Studies were manually reviewed by multiple authors following strict inclusion/exclusion criteria.

RESULTS: 751 articles were identified based on title and abstract. Sixty articles were selected for retrieval, of which seven pilot and small population studies were included. Study participants varied based on experience level. Three key findings were derived from these studies. First, SBS is comparable to in-person simulation as a clinical competence and communication skill assessment method when evaluated by independent raters and mock EM oral board examination scores. Second, SBS is capable of discerning EM learners by educational level given SBS/serious game mean clinical score clustering. Lastly, various SBS software demonstrated strong participant interest across the EM learner spectrum through subjective exit questionaries.

CONCLUSION: Current research regarding SBS as an assessment method for EM learners is severely limited as demonstrated by low number of included studies and small populations. Even so, SBS shows promise as a possible alternative and/or supplement to traditional in-person simulation to assess clinical reasoning/communication skills and discern learners by educational level. Further large-scale studies are required to establish the validity of SBS as an assessment method.},
}

*Emergency Medicine/education
Humans
*Clinical Competence
*Simulation Training/methods
*Educational Measurement/methods
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Computer Simulation
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42249377,
year = {2026},
author = {Berry, R and Wilkinson, A and Turk, A and Ng, BY and Pinkney, S and Halai, B and Emoche, A and Thornley, T and Ashiru-Oredope, D},
title = {The role of pharmacists and pharmacy team members in the prevention, preparedness, response and recovery of outbreaks - a global rapid systematic review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42249377},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Professional Role ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; *Pharmacists ; Pandemic Preparedness ; World Health Organization ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pharmacists and their teams can undertake pharmaceutical public health roles during outbreaks within the World Health Organization (WHO) emergency cycle of prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. These may be at micro- (individual), meso- (regional or organisational) or macro- (national) levels. The primary outcome was to identify pharmacy team members' roles in outbreaks (excluding COVID-19) and classify by WHO emergency cycle phase and intervention level.

METHODS: We conducted a rapid systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42024617152) in Embase, Medline, and SCOPUS databases including articles published from 2014 to Feb 2025. After duplicate removal, titles/abstracts and full texts were screened, extracted and assessed for bias by one reviewer, with 10% second-checked. Thematic synthesis was used and described narratively to reflect variability in the studies.

RESULTS: From 161 articles across all WHO regions, 145 distinct thematically derived role categories were identified. Most were in the response phase (46%), followed by prevention (29%), preparedness (15%), and recovery (10%). Roles were primarily at meso-level (37%) and micro-level (35%), with fewer at macro-level (28%). 34% of the articles reported contributions related to health inequalities. Reported barriers were clustered into five themes: knowledge/training gaps, regulatory restrictions, resource and infrastructure constraints, communication, and cultural factors.

CONCLUSION: Pharmacy team members have roles during non-COVID outbreaks across all stages of the WHO emergency cycle at all levels. However, their contributions are less well documented in recovery and at macro-level. Integrating pharmacy roles into emergency frameworks, supported by regulatory reform, funding, and training, may support health-system resilience, and reduce health inequalities.},
}

Humans
*Professional Role
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
*Pharmacists
Pandemic Preparedness
World Health Organization

@article {pmid42486051,
year = {2026},
author = {Okoli, GN and Sullivan, SG and Harper, DM and Tsang, TK and Cowling, BJ},
title = {A systematic meta-analytic comparative evaluation of seasonal influenza vaccine effectiveness from test-negative design studies in the Northern Hemisphere pre/post COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {88},
number = {},
pages = {128956},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128956},
pmid = {42486051},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; Adolescent ; Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype/immunology ; Influenza B virus/immunology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/immunology ; Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/immunology ; Seasons ; Child, Preschool ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Child ; Young Adult ; Infant ; Pandemics ; Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Influenza circulation was substantially reduced during the COVID-19 pandemic. The consequent reduction in population immunity may have resulted in increased influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE) after the pandemic via reduced immunity in unvaccinated individuals compared to the pre-pandemic period.

METHODS: We systematically reviewed published peer-reviewed test-negative design (TND) studies of seasonal influenza VE against medically-attended, laboratory-confirmed influenza in the Northern Hemisphere. We compared pooled VE estimates before (2010/11-2019/20) and after (2022/23-2024/25) the COVID-19 pandemic (defined as 2020/21-2021/22). Pooled VE against A(H1N1)pdm09, A(H3N2), influenza B, and B/Victoria was calculated for three age groups (6 months-17 years, 18-64 years, ≥65 years) using inverse-variance random-effects meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was quantified with the I[2] statistic, and differences between pooled VE estimates pre- and post-pandemic periods were tested with the χ[2] statistic.

RESULTS: Eighty-five publications were included. Post-pandemic VE against A(H3N2) was significantly higher than pre-pandemic VE in 6-month-17-year-olds (53% [42-64%] vs 37% [30-45%]) and 18-64-year-olds (35% [25-45%] vs 21% [13-29%]). Similarly, VE against influenza B was higher post-pandemic in both age groups (85% [78-93%] vs 52% [45-60%] and 73% [59-87%] vs 49% [41-57%], respectively). Conversely, VE against A(H1N1)pdm09 was lower post-pandemic in 18-64-year-olds (37% [27-46%] vs 55% [47-62%]). No significant differences were observed for ≥65-year-olds, and data for B/Victoria were limited.

CONCLUSIONS: The evidence suggests slightly higher VE against seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic although there may be factors other than population immunity that may explain our observations.},
}

Humans
*Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology
*Vaccine Efficacy
Adolescent
Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype/immunology
Influenza B virus/immunology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/immunology
Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/immunology
Seasons
Child, Preschool
Middle Aged
Adult
Child
Young Adult
Infant
Pandemics
Aged

@article {pmid42571535,
year = {2026},
author = {Khawaja, I and Khan, N and Kannangara, L and Panangala Liyanage, SN and Gomez Canales, E and Sahedra, SS},
title = {The Association Between COVID-19 and Herpes Zoster in Adult Populations: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e112344},
pmid = {42571535},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‑CoV‑2), has been associated with a wide range of dermatological manifestations. Herpes zoster (HZ), also known as shingles, has been increasingly reported in adults with COVID‑19 infection. Several reports suggest that SARS‑CoV‑2-associated immune dysregulation, particularly lymphopenia and impaired T-cell-mediated immunity, may contribute to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the temporal relationship between COVID‑19 infection and shingles rash, including the onset, clinical outcomes, prognostic implications, recovery, and relationship with lymphopenia. This study was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases for studies published within the last five years. Search terms included "COVID‑19", "SARS-CoV-2", "herpes zoster" and "shingles rash". Inclusion criteria consisted of case reports, case series, cohort studies, systematic reviews, and research studies. Studies included were in the English language. Studies not relevant to the research question, paediatric cohorts, or commenting on vaccination were excluded. Fifty-seven studies (N=57) were initially identified through database search, with 35 studies (N=35) deemed relevant to the research question following screening. Twenty-five studies (N=25) were excluded due to data not being relevant to the research question, paediatric cohort data, or vaccination-related data. After exclusion, 10 studies (N=10) were included in the review for qualitative analysis. Most studies demonstrated a temporal association between COVID‑19 infection and HZ occurrence. HZ rash developed from two days before COVID‑19 symptoms and up to 70 days after infection, with an average onset approximately 17 days after COVID‑19 diagnosis. Several studies reported that HZ preceded or coincided with COVID‑19 symptoms, suggesting that shingles may serve as an early indicator of SARS‑CoV‑2 infection. Associated lymphopenia was noted, suggesting that COVID-19-induced immune dysregulation contributes to VZV reactivation. Most patients recovered from HZ rash following antiviral therapy, although severe complications and prolonged hospitalisation were observed in cases involving co-infection and systemic disease. Overlooking this possible association may result in an undiagnosed COVID-19 infection in those presenting with shingles rash and a higher risk of developing long COVID. The reviewed studies indicate that COVID-19 may be associated with HZ reactivation in the general adult population, although causality remains unproven. This detailed data analysis and systematic review demonstrate that evidence is scarce in this domain, which warrants larger epidemiological and immunological studies as well as further meta-analyses to determine the prognostic significance of shingles rash in COVID‑19 infection, in particular long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid42572688,
year = {2026},
author = {Aly, S and Grundmann, O},
title = {A Review of Kratom Product Evolution and Its Associated Health Outcomes.},
journal = {Substance abuse and rehabilitation},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {606821},
pmid = {42572688},
issn = {1179-8467},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa Korth) is a tree that belongs to the coffee family (Rubiaceae) and is native to Southeast Asia. This review article focuses on the diversification of kratom products, differentiating between native leaf, extracts and isolates based on use patterns and conceptualization of kratom for self-treatment of disorders.

FINDINGS: The dried powdered native leaf and its extract derivatives are primarily used as kratom products in the US and Europe. Diversification of kratom products has increased since 2021 following the global COVID-19 pandemic. There has been a rise in chemically altered kratom products, including enriched extracts, edibles, resins, and isolates. Most prominent among them is the oxidative metabolite of mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine.

SUMMARY: The total alkaloid content is lowest in native kratom leaf products (2-5% by weight) which is associated with a lower potential for adverse effects and dependence compared to concentrated products, where extracts can contain five to 50 times the alkaloid content of the native leaf. Purified compounds, predominantly mitragynine and semi-synthetic 7-hydroxymitragynine, are likely to be associated with a higher risk for dependence and overdose potential.},
}

@article {pmid42574721,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Zhu, Y and Luo, G},
title = {A narrative review of the epidemiological and mechanistic associations between ABO blood groups and diseases: focusing on cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, malaria, COVID-19 and rheumatic diseases.},
journal = {Annals of medicine},
volume = {58},
number = {1},
pages = {2710922},
doi = {10.1080/07853890.2026.2710922},
pmid = {42574721},
issn = {1365-2060},
mesh = {Humans ; *ABO Blood-Group System/genetics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/blood ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/blood/genetics ; *Rheumatic Diseases/epidemiology/blood/genetics ; *Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/blood/genetics ; *Neoplasms/epidemiology/blood/genetics ; *Malaria/epidemiology/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Malaria, Falciparum/epidemiology/blood ; Risk Factors ; Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The ABO blood group system is one of the most clinically significant human blood group systems and is closely associated with pathogenesis, progression, and prognosis of numerous diseases. This narrative review synthesizes recent epidemiological evidence and explores potential mechanisms linking ABO to cardiovascular diseases, malignancies, diabetes, Plasmodium falciparum malaria, COVID‑19, and rheumatic diseases.

METHODS: We searched PubMed and CNKI up to September 2025.

RESULTS: Epidemiological studies consistently show non‑O blood groups have significantly elevated cardiovascular risk, with venous thromboembolism risk about two to four times higher than in type O. In oncology, ABO influences susceptibility and prognosis in various cancers, with type A linked to increased gastric cancer risk (pooled OR≈1.2). Type O individuals show relative resistance to severe malaria. During COVID‑19, type A was linked to higher susceptibility and severity, whereas type O appeared mildly protective, though associations exhibited substantial heterogeneity across populations, viral variants, and vaccination contexts. ABO polymorphisms may also modulate risk and manifestations of rheumatic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis.

CONCLUSION: Accumulating evidence suggests ABO status is associated with susceptibility and outcomes for a range of diseases. These findings are primarily hypothesis‑generating and underscore the need for further research to elucidate causal mechanisms. The potential of ABO typing as a biomarker for risk stratification in personalized medicine warrants investigation in large, multi‑ethnic prospective studies.},
}

Humans
*ABO Blood-Group System/genetics
*COVID-19/epidemiology/blood
*Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/blood/genetics
*Rheumatic Diseases/epidemiology/blood/genetics
*Diabetes Mellitus/epidemiology/blood/genetics
*Neoplasms/epidemiology/blood/genetics
*Malaria/epidemiology/blood
SARS-CoV-2
Malaria, Falciparum/epidemiology/blood
Risk Factors
Genetic Predisposition to Disease

@article {pmid42574892,
year = {2026},
author = {Bansal, P and Khan, NA and Singh, H and Siddiqui, M and Schram, J and Patel, S and Karri, S and Constantakos, A and Sundararajan, N and Saldanha, IJ},
title = {Timeliness of publication of randomized controlled trials in rheumatology: A systematic review.},
journal = {Seminars in arthritis and rheumatism},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {153052},
doi = {10.1016/j.semarthrit.2026.153052},
pmid = {42574892},
issn = {1532-866X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the (1) timeliness of publication of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in rheumatology, (2) impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on time to publication, and (3) factors associated with publication delays.

METHODS: We searched Medline, Embase, EBM Reviews, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus from January 1, 2018, to June 30, 2023 for Phase 3, superiority, parallel-design RCTs that evaluated any treatment for a rheumatologic illness or a rheumatologic treatment for COVID-19 and reported clinical primary efficacy outcome. Outcomes of interest were time to publication after trial completion and publication delay of >2 years after trial completion.

RESULTS: 448 RCTs were included in this systematic review. Median time from completion to publication was 549 days and 65.9 % RCTs were published within 2 years of completion. Compared with RCTs on rheumatologic diseases, RCTs on COVID-19 were published sooner (253 vs. 549 days; p < 0.001) and were more likely to be published within 2 years (adjusted OR 9.49, 95 % CI 2.07 to 43.61). Compared with RCTs completed before March 1, 2020, RCTs completed after March 1, 2020, were published sooner (327 vs. 724 days; p < 0.001) and were more likely to be published within 2 years (adjusted OR 9.40, 95 % CI 5.14 to 17.21). Time from RCT completion to submission accounted for most (67 %) of the time to publication.

CONCLUSIONS: Publication delay continues to be an important concern in dissemination of clinical research. Most of the delays in publication were attributable to delays in submission to journals after trial completion.},
}

@article {pmid42576855,
year = {2024},
author = {Brüssow, H},
title = {Pandemic preparedness-political perspectives.},
journal = {Sustainable microbiology},
volume = {1},
number = {1},
pages = {qvae018},
pmid = {42576855},
issn = {2755-1970},
abstract = {Pandemic preparedness is explored for the antibiotic resistance crisis and the threat of a next viral pandemic. Bacterial pathogens escaping from control by antibiotics are well defined, and resistance develops over decades while a next viral pandemic occurs suddenly with a novel virus. The death toll for resistant bacterial infections is reviewed, and the scientific and economic hurdles to the development of new antibiotics are discussed. Regulatory adaptations and financial push and pull programs to restimulate new antibiotic development are explored. The COVID-19 pandemic caused not only millions of deaths, but also economic losses in excess of 10 trillion US dollars. Coronaviruses and influenza viruses remain usual suspects for new viral pandemics, followed by paramyxoviruses. Viral infections at the animal-human interface in wet markets and in disturbed environments need active virus surveillance programs. Learning lessons from the COVID-19 for non-pharmaceutical interventions is difficult to draw since measures were frequently applied in combination against different variant viruses and against changing population immunity levels. The Randomised Evaluation of COVID-19 Therapy (RECOVERY) clinical trials demonstrated that even under emergency situations clinical trials can rapidly provide solid treatment data. Various novel vaccine approaches were the most efficient control measures for the COVID-19 pandemic. Pandemic preparedness also requires a fact-based discussion both in the public and in parliaments to settle the conflict between individual freedom and necessary restrictions during a pandemic. Mature and educated citizens are needed not only for coping with pandemics but also for creating stress-resistant democratic societies. Learned scientific societies should contribute to this discussion.},
}

@article {pmid42576971,
year = {2026},
author = {Contreras, S and Dönges, P and Müller, L and Mallick, P and Paltra, S and Hvid, U and Kettlitz, RJN and Reitenbach, A and Lind, RA and Aguiar, M and Bechtle, P and Valdez, AC and Gronemeyer, R and Harries, M and Jaeger, VK and Karch, A and Klett-Tammen, CJ and Klimek, P and Kretzschmar, ME and Nagel, K and Nielsen, BF and Prainsack, B and Radhuber, IM and Simonsen, L and Sneppen, K and Suer, J and Priesemann, V},
title = {Mechanics of pandemics.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {98},
number = {},
pages = {104101},
pmid = {42576971},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {COVID-19 and previous pandemics have shown how diseases can disrupt, threaten, and transform daily life. Since pathogens and societies are continuously evolving, every pandemic is different. However, certain fundamental principles of disease transmission appear to hold true across different outbreaks. These "mechanisms" are grounded in natural laws or the very structure of our biology and societies. This paper compiles ten fundamental mechanisms, curated by a multidisciplinary team with backgrounds spanning public health, medicine, epidemiology, political science, mathematics, physics, and psychology. These mechanisms, although perhaps underappreciated, substantially shape how pandemics unfold and are controlled. The better we succeed in understanding these mechanisms and establishing this knowledge in our societies, the better we will be able to prepare for future pandemics and respond appropriately when they occur.},
}

@article {pmid42576972,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohamed Omer, SO and Eltahir, R and Osman Elsayed, SB and Eldyasty Ahmed Eid, MA and Hassan Khattab, RA and Elfaki Omer, EO and Gomaa Abdelfattah, MK and Mustafa Alsalhi, AS and Elawad Ahmed, NF},
title = {Autoimmune Manifestations Following COVID-19 Infection: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {e112421},
pmid = {42576972},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been linked to immune dysregulation and autoantibody formation, raising concern that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection may precipitate new-onset autoimmune disease. This systematic review synthesises controlled observational evidence on the incidence and risk of autoimmune manifestations following confirmed COVID-19. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 guidelines, electronic databases were searched from inception upto the search date for original cohort or case-control studies comparing incident autoimmune disease in individuals with versus without confirmed COVID-19. Eligibility was structured using the PICOS (Population, Intervention/Exposure, Comparator, Outcome, and Study design) framework. Methodological quality was appraised using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach. Findings were synthesised narratively. Eight large cohort studies, drawn from multiple national health systems and collectively encompassing tens of millions of individuals, met the inclusion criteria. Confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection was consistently associated with an increased risk of incident autoimmune disease spanning rheumatological, dermatological, vasculitic, endocrine, gastrointestinal, haematological, and neurological domains, with adjusted hazard ratios ranging from approximately 1.3 to 3.0. Connective tissue, vasculitic, and antibody-mediated disorders were most frequently implicated. Several studies demonstrated a severity-dependent gradient and attenuation of risk over time, and one cohort reported a reduced risk among vaccinated individuals. The overall certainty of evidence was low to moderate. Confirmed COVID-19 is associated with an increased, though in absolute terms modest, risk of new-onset autoimmune disease, most reproducibly affecting connective tissue, vasculitic, and antibody-mediated conditions. The observational evidence supports clinical vigilance, particularly after severe infection, while prospective studies with validated outcomes and infection comparators are needed to confirm causality.},
}

@article {pmid42577597,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, K and Liang, X and Pi, R and Dai, J and Lei, X and Fang, J},
title = {Advances in AI for detecting pulmonary inflammation and perioperative medicine: a mini-review.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1865505},
pmid = {42577597},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {With increasing human longevity, early recognition and treatment of pneumonia in the elderly are crucial to prevent disease progression. Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the detection and management of pulmonary inflammation (pneumonia, COVID-19 lung damage). Accurate preoperative assessment of pneumonia contributes to improved perioperative surgical and anesthesia management. This mini-review highlights key advances: (1) Hybrid deep learning models achieve high accuracy (>96%) in analyzing ultrasound videos for disease differentiation. (2) Self-supervised learning enables expert-level X-ray interpretation without extensive annotations. (3) Multimodal integration combines imaging (CT/X-ray) with clinical data, enhancing lesion visibility and pathogen-specific diagnosis (viral vs. bacterial AUC: 0.95). Clinically, AI demonstrates high efficacy in COVID-19 detection (AUC: 0.992), pediatric pneumonia diagnosis (89-96% accuracy), and identifying post-COVID complications. Despite this promise, challenges remain, including data bias, limited pediatric datasets, "black-box" model interpretability, and ethical concerns. Future progress depends on expanding diverse training data (e.g., via federated learning), integrating explainable AI (XAI), and ensuring equitable access. In conclusion, AI offers accurate, scalable solutions for pulmonary inflammation diagnostics, with significant potential to augment clinical decision-making and extend into proactive areas like perioperative medicine for complication screening and prevention.},
}

@article {pmid42569481,
year = {2026},
author = {Shin, H},
title = {U.S. Public Health Policy Shifts Under the Second Trump Administration and Implications for the Republic of Korea's Health Security.},
journal = {Public health weekly report},
volume = {19},
number = {30},
pages = {1251-1280},
pmid = {42569481},
issn = {3092-491X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This report evaluates the U.S. public health policy shifts enacted by the 2025 Trump administration and assesses their implications for global health cooperation, evidence-based policymaking, and the Republic of Korea's health security strategy.

METHODS: This study employed a narrative review and policy analysis based on documents published between January 2025 and May 2026. Data were collected from official U.S. federal agency sources and major media outlets using specific search terms, including "Trump administration" and "public health policy." After screening for policy relevance and reliability, the reviewed literature was synthesized and qualitatively analyzed into four main topics: agency reorganization and budget cuts, immunization policy adjustments, data-driven research environments, and global health cooperation.

RESULTS: To improve efficiency and realign priorities, the U.S. federal government restructured public health governance by streamlining U.S. Department of Health and Human Services agencies from 28 to 15 and reducing staff. Immunization policy shifted toward emphasizing individual choice, reducing the number of routine recommended vaccines from 17 to 11 by excluding rotavirus, hepatitis A and B, meningococcal, coronavirus disease 2019, and influenza vaccines. Multilateral cooperation also declined as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention decentralized data management, the U.S. withdrew from the World Health Organization, and the United States Agency for International Development was dissolved, shifting the focus toward bilateral memoranda of understanding. However, these swift transformations triggered sharp institutional resistance, including judicial injunctions, government shutdowns, and state-level policy fragmentation.

CONCLUSIONS: Alterations to these frameworks and guidelines may reduce the predictability of global infectious disease surveillance and cooperation. Consequently, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency must enhance independent global surveillance, develop science-based communication to sustain vaccine confidence, and diversify multi- and bilateral cooperation networks to keep pace with evolving global health dynamics.},
}

@article {pmid42570952,
year = {2026},
author = {Brock, J and Lux, H and Bauer, M and Dickmann, P},
title = {Inter-hospital ICU-to-ICU transfer of critically ill COVID-19 patients is not associated with increased mortality: a systematic review with exploratory meta-analysis.},
journal = {Scientific reports},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42570952},
issn = {2045-2322},
mesh = {Humans ; *Intensive Care Units ; *Critical Illness/mortality ; *Patient Transfer/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/mortality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Hospital Mortality ; },
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, inter-hospital transfer of critically ill patients between intensive care units was widely used to manage capacity shortages. While several individual studies have compared outcomes of transferred and non-transferred patients, no systematic synthesis of this evidence exists. This systematic review aims to determine whether inter-hospital ICU-to-ICU transfer of adult COVID-19 patients is associated with increased mortality or other adverse clinical outcomes. We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for observational studies comparing clinical outcomes of adult COVID-19 patients who underwent inter-hospital ICU-to-ICU transfer with non-transferred ICU patients. Two reviewers screened, selected, and extracted data independently and in duplicate. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. Exploratory random-effects meta-analyses were performed separately for each effect measure, with Hartung-Knapp and crude-effect sensitivity analyses. Nine observational studies from seven countries were included (approximately 6,100 transferred and 29,200 non-transferred ICU patients). None of the adjusted effect estimates showed a statistically significant mortality disadvantage for transferred patients. Pooled adjusted subgroup estimates were an odds ratio of 1.29 (95% CI 0.84 to 1.98; k = 3) and a hazard ratio of 0.71 (95% CI 0.34 to 1.46; k = 2). Length of stay was longer in transferred patients in most studies. The available observational evidence did not show a clear increase in mortality among transferred compared with non-transferred COVID-19 ICU patients. These findings support the use of inter-hospital transfer as a safe strategy for managing ICU surge capacity. PROSPERO CRD420261356915.},
}

Humans
*Intensive Care Units
*Critical Illness/mortality
*Patient Transfer/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/mortality
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Hospital Mortality

@article {pmid42571046,
year = {2026},
author = {Gravenstein, S and Cooke, CE and Verdi, D and Fedele, MJ and Ganguli, S and Martin, S and Draica, F},
title = {Current Impact of COVID-19 in Long-Term Care Facilities in the United States: A Systematic Literature Review.},
journal = {The Senior care pharmacist},
volume = {41},
number = {5},
pages = {167-186},
doi = {10.4140/TCP.n.2026.167},
pmid = {42571046},
issn = {2639-9636},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality ; United States/epidemiology ; *Long-Term Care/statistics & numerical data ; *Nursing Homes/statistics & numerical data ; Nursing Home Residents ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Aged ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {Background: COVID-19 disproportionately affects older adults, placing residents of closed-community settings, such as long-term care facilities (LTCFs), at increased risk for severe illness and death. Objective: To describe the epidemiology and healthcare resource utilization associated with acute COVID-19 in LTCFs in the United States during Omicron variant predominance. Data Sources: MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched on January 15, 2025 for full-text citations published on or after January 1, 2022. Conference abstracts from long-term care conferences in 2023 and 2024 were hand-searched. Records were included if they described acute COVID-19 in LTCFs (nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers). Records were excluded if they were conducted outside the United States, published in languages other than English, focused on long COVID, did not include data from the Omicron predominance period (beginning November 1, 2021), or were clinical trials, case reports/case series, narrative reviews, editorials, or commentaries. Data Synthesis: Forty-three articles met the inclusion criteria, most of which reported COVID-19 cases (20 studies), mortality (18 studies), and/or healthcare resource utilization (11 studies). Although all studies included COVID-19 data during the Omicron period, most also included earlier periods during which other COVID-19 variants were predominant. In the United States, weekly incidence rates for COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations among nursing home residents ranged from 614 to 1338 and from 38 to 71 per 1,000 residents, respectively. Approximately 1 in 6 COVID-19 hospitalizations occurred among LTCF residents. Compared with community-dwelling individuals, mortality was 4.6-fold higher among LTCF residents. Conclusion: COVID-19 in LTCFs was associated with high rates of hospitalization and mortality among residents, including vaccinated individuals, during the study period.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality
United States/epidemiology
*Long-Term Care/statistics & numerical data
*Nursing Homes/statistics & numerical data
Nursing Home Residents
SARS-CoV-2
Aged
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42565313,
year = {2026},
author = {SeyedAlinaghi, S and Mehraeen, E and Rad, FF and Siami, H and Javaherian, M and Rasheed, MA and Bagheri, A and Zand, A and Emamgholizadeh Baboli, E and Rostami, K and Yarmohammadi, S},
title = {Risk Factors of the Spread of COVID-19 in Prisoners: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Disaster medicine and public health preparedness},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {e141},
doi = {10.1017/dmp.2026.10392},
pmid = {42565313},
issn = {1938-744X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; *Prisoners/statistics & numerical data ; Risk Factors ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to identify and synthesize evidence on risk factors for COVID-19 in incarcerated populations.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar was conducted for English articles until October 2025. Study quality was assessed using the PRISMA checklist and NOS tool. Meta-analysis was performed in Stata 17 using a random-effects model, with odds ratios as the primary effect measure and statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Heterogeneity was evaluated via I[2] statistics.

RESULTS: Twelve articles were ultimately included in the study. For the meta-analysis, only 5 articles were considered, which evaluated sex, age, and vaccination status as the risk factors of COVID-19. The total sample size was 176169, consisting of 169117 males and 7,726 females. In most studies, the average age was reported to be around 40 years. Fully vaccinated prisoners were less likely to contract COVID-19 than unvaccinated ones (OR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.67; P = 0.001), while no significant relationships were found regarding sex and age.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm that full vaccination significantly protects against COVID-19 in prisons. Prioritizing vaccination campaigns, along with measures like mask use and hand hygiene, is essential to protect incarcerated individuals and the wider community.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
*Prisoners/statistics & numerical data
Risk Factors
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Vaccination/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42568381,
year = {2026},
author = {Cebeci, F},
title = {The rise of hikikomori research: a bibliometric analysis of an emerging global phenomenon.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1862953},
pmid = {42568381},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Hikikomori, characterized by prolonged and severe social withdrawal, has attracted growing international attention as research has extended beyond its original Japanese context. This study examines the growth dynamics, citation impact, productivity patterns, collaboration structure, and conceptual and intellectual development of the hikikomori literature.

METHODS: Data have been retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus databases. Following screening and deduplication, 348 unique publications from 2002 to 2025 have been included. Performance analysis and science mapping techniques have been applied using the bibliometrix R package, Biblioshiny, and VOSviewer.

RESULTS: Publication output has remained limited during the early years, has become more visible after 2010, and has increased markedly after 2018, with the highest annual output recorded in 2025 (n = 62). Highly cited publications have included both core hikikomori studies and research related to internet addiction, digital behaviors, youth social withdrawal, and measurement. Scientific production has been concentrated among a limited group of authors and institutions, while 14 journals have formed the Bradford core. Japan has remained the dominant contributor, although substantial research activity has also been recorded in Italy, China, the United States, and other regions. International collaboration has been unevenly distributed and has remained less prominent than nationally based research production. Keyword analyses have revealed strong connections among hikikomori, social withdrawal, social isolation, depression, loneliness, mental health, and anxiety. Bibliographic coupling has revealed substantial overlap in shared reference bases, while thematic evolution has shown continuity around hikikomori and social isolation together with the later prominence of mental health, COVID-19, depression, and adolescent-related themes.

CONCLUSION: The findings have indicated that hikikomori research has developed into a broader and increasingly international field in which clinical, psychosocial, developmental, cultural, and digital perspectives have been represented. Greater interdisciplinary and cross-cultural engagement has therefore been identified as an important direction for future research.},
}

@article {pmid40314137,
year = {2026},
author = {Lam, BJW and Loh, MCS and Yew, YW},
title = {Telemedicine in the Care of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Dermatitis : contact, atopic, occupational, drug},
volume = {37},
number = {4},
pages = {632-639},
doi = {10.1089/derm.2024.0173},
pmid = {40314137},
issn = {2162-5220},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dermatitis, Atopic/therapy ; *Telemedicine ; Severity of Illness Index ; Quality of Life ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {Importance: More patients are opting for telemedicine because of its convenience and potential cost savings, especially post-COVID-19. This is also applicable to atopic dermatitis (AD).Objective: To investigate telemedicine's impact on the care of patients with AD.Methods: Relevant articles from five databases-namely, MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library-were searched up to August 1, 2023. Controlled prospective clinical trials, long-term follow-up studies, retrospective studies, and observational studies that assessed the effectiveness of telemedicine in terms of patient- and physician-reported outcomes of AD were included. A random-effects model was chosen to estimate all pooled data, with results presented in forest plots.Results: Regarding teleconsultation, four studies reported decreases in Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), Investigator Global Assessment, Scoring Atopic Dermatitis, and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), which were comparable with the control arm. For electronic interventions, POEM and Hand Eczema Severity Index significantly decreased from baseline in favor of telemedicine (P = 0.0003 and P < 0.00001, respectively), while no difference was observed for Eczema Area and Severity Index and DLQI.Conclusions: Telemedicine can be a useful adjunct to traditional face-to-face consultations in AD but with potential cost savings and convenience for patients.},
}

Humans
*Dermatitis, Atopic/therapy
*Telemedicine
Severity of Illness Index
Quality of Life
COVID-19

@article {pmid42349233,
year = {2026},
author = {Lv, F and Chen, Y and Xia, Y},
title = {Neurological sequelae of Long COVID: Pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic advances, and therapeutic perspectives.},
journal = {Journal of neuroimmunology},
volume = {419},
number = {},
pages = {579010},
doi = {10.1016/j.jneuroim.2026.579010},
pmid = {42349233},
issn = {1872-8421},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology/therapy/psychology/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/etiology/physiopathology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection may result in persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms beyond the acute phase, often discussed under the umbrella term "Long COVID". These manifestations commonly include mood disturbances, post-traumatic stress symptoms, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, and fatigue, with substantial effects on daily functioning and quality of life. Despite these concerns, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these sequelae remain poorly understood, and the lack of specific biomarkers hampers the development of targeted interventions. This review synthesizes recent advances in the clinical presentation, underlying mechanisms, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies for neuropsychiatric sequelae of Long COVID. We also discuss current challenges and outline future research priorities to facilitate the establishment of standardized diagnostic criteria and the development of effective, mechanism-based therapies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology/therapy/psychology/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/etiology/physiopathology
Animals

@article {pmid42564287,
year = {2026},
author = {Mensah, C and Bodunrin, S},
title = {Injustice unmasked: a systematic review of social justice struggles during the COVID pandemic in Canada.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1856009},
pmid = {42564287},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Social Justice ; Canada/epidemiology ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic amplified social injustices through institutional system disruption among marginalized communities in Canada. This study fills an important literature gap by providing the first holistic systematic review with a theoretically grounded framework to anticipate and mitigate social injustices in future public health crises.

METHOD: Using PRISMA 2020 framework and the databases of Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed (n = 58, 2020-2023), the study analyzed the pandemic-induced inequities through the PEO framework.

RESULTS: Discrimination was identified as the most pervasive social injustice during the pandemic. Immigrants, Refugees, and Women were identified as the most vulnerable group impacted with various forms of social injustices due to the intersection between different social identities.

DISCUSSION: The novel PISIIM framework was developed to equip policy makers, social workers, and other stakeholders in anticipating and mitigating injustices in future public health crises.

https://www.prisma-statement.org/prisma-2020-flow-diagram.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Social Justice
Canada/epidemiology
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42564508,
year = {2026},
author = {Bösenberg, LH and Ueckermann, V},
title = {Pandem-ethics: Post-mortem reflection on healthcare worker ethics during the time of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemonium.},
journal = {Southern African journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {798},
pmid = {42564508},
issn = {2313-1810},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic created ethical and legal tension for healthcare workers (HCWs), who had to balance professional obligations with personal safety, family responsibilities and resource limitations. The concept of 'duty to care' re-emerged as a contested ethical construct during periods of workforce vulnerability and healthcare scarcity.

AIM: This article examines the ethical and juridical dimensions of HCWs' duty of care during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the South African constitutional framework, occupational health obligations and professional regulation, and whether this duty is absolute or subject to reasonable limits.

SETTING: The discussion is situated within South Africa's healthcare response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ethical expectations placed on clinicians in high-risk and emergency settings.

METHOD: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar and grey literature. Sources included peer-reviewed ethical analyses, legal frameworks and policy documents. A thematic synthesis analysed moral theory, legal duty, reciprocity and public health ethics.

RESULTS: The duty of care is substantial but not limited. South African law supports coexistence of rights rather than hierarchical obligations. Ethical analysis shows that proportionality, reciprocity and reasonable risk mitigation conditions professional duty. Employers must ensure adequate protection, transparent triage systems and psychosocial support. Failure to ensure reciprocity risks moral coercion and workforce attrition. The pandemic highlighted the need to define the thresholds where professional obligation yields to legitimate self-protection.

CONCLUSION: The duty of care should be reconceptualised as a conditional, relational obligation grounded in constitutional values and public health ethics, with clear risk thresholds and enforceable reciprocal protections.

CONTRIBUTION: This article contributes to post-COVID-19 pandemic ethics literature by clarifying between the duty to treat, care and serve, proposing a Decatrad of operational reforms, reframing the duties as conditional, reciprocal and legally bounded.},
}

@article {pmid42564512,
year = {2026},
author = {Dawood, F and Singaram, VS and Cassim, B},
title = {An exploratory evaluation of the acceptability of revised physician examinations in South Africa initiated during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of the colleges of medicine of South Africa},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {388},
pmid = {42564512},
issn = {2960-110X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study explored the acceptability of the decentralised assessment of clinical competency (AOCC) and digital structured oral examination (SOE), introduced in South Africa (SA) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, with a view to informing their potential continuation and refinement in post-pandemic contexts.

METHODS: A mixed-methods study was conducted with candidates and examiners from SA training centres who participated in the AOCC and SOE in 2020-2021. Quantitative data explored perceptions regarding the credibility of the revised formats. For deeper insights, focus group discussions were held. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Forty candidates completed the questionnaires with at least one representative from each SA training centre. Twelve examiners responded to the AOCC and 13 to the SOE questionnaires. Both groups viewed the revised formats broadly positively, highlighting the AOCC's fairness, relevance and acceptability. Analysis highlighted advantages such as logistical benefits, and challenges, including the need for standardisation of registrar training. The SOE was endorsed by more than 70% of participants for its standardisation, objectivity and breadth of content coverage. Both groups expressed concerns about limited examiner-candidate interaction, while candidates reported uncertainty regarding the depth of responses required.

CONCLUSION: The revised formats were broadly acceptable and perceived as valid alternatives to the previous format of the examination. These findings support the continuation of hybrid, decentralised formats for future assessments.

CONTRIBUTION: This study provides insight into the benefits and drawbacks of the amended Fellowship of the College of Physicians (SA) examination format, offering guidance for future reforms in medical assessment in SA and comparable resource-constrained contexts.},
}

@article {pmid42274123,
year = {2026},
author = {Saleem, S and Hussain, A and Haroon, M and Raza, A and Afzal, U and Anwar, MF and Imran, S and Iqbal, MU and Hajj, F},
title = {Dynamic microclot profiling: thromboelastography advances precision management in long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome.},
journal = {Blood coagulation & fibrinolysis : an international journal in haemostasis and thrombosis},
volume = {37},
number = {6},
pages = {288-295},
doi = {10.1097/MBC.0000000000001439},
pmid = {42274123},
issn = {1473-5733},
mesh = {Humans ; *Thrombelastography/methods ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/blood/diagnosis ; *COVID-19/blood/complications/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Pandemics ; *Betacoronavirus ; *Pneumonia, Viral/blood/diagnosis ; *Coronavirus Infections/blood/diagnosis ; Anticoagulants/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) share overlapping symptoms, and emerging evidence implicates persistent fibrinoid microclots in their pathophysiology, contributing to impaired microcirculation. This review explores the role of microclots and evaluates thromboelastography (TEG) as a potential diagnostic tool. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using major biomedical databases. Studies indicate microclots are prevalent in both conditions. Long COVID patients demonstrate a TEG profile of increased clot strength (maximum amplitude) and reduced fibrinolysis (LY30), suggesting a persistent hypercoagulable state. Despite its advantages in real-time assessment, TEG interpretation faces challenges from preanalytical variability and a lack of standardized protocols. Promising therapeutic trials, including anticoagulants (e.g., apixaban) and fibrinolytics (e.g., lumbrokinase), require further validation. Technological advancements like AI-driven TEG analysis and portable devices could improve diagnostic precision. In conclusion, persistent microclots are a key pathophysiological feature. TEG provides a promising, novel approach for detecting coagulation abnormalities and could guide treatment, but requires standardization in future clinical trials. Future research should integrate multiomics biomarkers for precision therapeutics to improve patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Thrombelastography/methods
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/blood/diagnosis
*COVID-19/blood/complications/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Pandemics
*Betacoronavirus
*Pneumonia, Viral/blood/diagnosis
*Coronavirus Infections/blood/diagnosis
Anticoagulants/therapeutic use

@article {pmid42411507,
year = {2026},
author = {Kumar, V and Qadri, SH and Nardelli da Silva, AB and Malaj, A and Qadri, SF and Wajeeha, F and Kasina, P and Jumani, MM and Muhammad, H},
title = {Ivabradine in the Treatment of POTS Before and After COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of cardiovascular pharmacology},
volume = {88},
number = {2},
pages = {115-122},
pmid = {42411507},
issn = {1533-4023},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ivabradine/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome/drug therapy/physiopathology/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Heart Rate/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; *Cardiovascular Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; },
abstract = {Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a debilitating autonomic disorder characterized by excessive orthostatic tachycardia and significant functional impairment. Conventional therapies, including beta-blockers, often provide incomplete relief or are poorly tolerated. Ivabradine, a selective If channel inhibitor, reduces heart rate without affecting blood pressure or myocardial contractility, making it a promising option, particularly in post-COVID-19 POTS. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of ivabradine in patients with POTS. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched through August 2025 in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PROSPERO CRD420251073600). Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and case series reporting ivabradine outcomes in POTS. Primary outcomes were changes in standing and supine heart rate; secondary outcomes included symptom burden, quality of life, and adverse events. A random-effects model was used, heterogeneity was assessed through sensitivity analyses, and certainty of evidence was evaluated using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation. Nine studies involving 245 patients were included. Ivabradine significantly reduced standing heart rate (-18.5 bpm; 95% confidence interval -23.3 to -13.8) and supine heart rate (-9.7 bpm; 95% confidence interval -13.4 to -6.1). Symptom improvement particularly palpitations, lightheadedness, and exercise intolerance was consistently reported across classic, pediatric, hyperadrenergic, and post-COVID-19 subgroups. Adverse events were infrequent and mild, most commonly transient visual disturbances, with no reports of severe bradycardia or hypotension. Heterogeneity was high, largely driven by pediatric and post-COVID-19 cohorts. In conclusion, ivabradine seems to provide meaningful heart rate reduction and symptomatic improvement in POTS with a favorable safety profile. However, evidence is limited by small, heterogeneous, predominantly observational studies, underscoring the need for large, multicenter randomized controlled trials.},
}

Humans
*Ivabradine/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome/drug therapy/physiopathology/diagnosis/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Heart Rate/drug effects
Treatment Outcome
*Cardiovascular Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Female
Male
Adult

@article {pmid42556322,
year = {2026},
author = {Pizzato, HA and Bhattacharya, D},
title = {Guiding pluripotent stem cell therapies past the immune system.},
journal = {Stem cells translational medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42556322},
issn = {2157-6580},
support = {R41AI191979/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R41AI192172/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Pluripotent Stem Cells/immunology/transplantation ; Animals ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/therapy/immunology ; *Stem Cell Transplantation/methods ; *Graft Rejection/immunology/prevention & control ; *Immune System ; },
abstract = {Pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-based therapies hold the potential to unlock cures for numerous diseases, including, but not limited to, Parkinson's disease, macular degeneration, heart failure, type 1 diabetes, and cancer. Yet as protocols to differentiate PSCs into therapeutically useful cell types have progressed rapidly, immunological rejection remains a major barrier that may limit the widespread use of such PSC-based therapies. In recent years, strategies to genetically modify PSCs to prevent immunological rejection of the downstream cell product have become a point of emphasis. Here, we provide an immunological perspective on these strategies, discussing the breadth of rejection mechanisms that have been uncovered through decades of research and the relative simplicity of designing PSC immune evasion strategies to circumvent these mechanisms. We focus in particular on how these strategies apply to the treatment of type 1 diabetes.},
}

Humans
*Pluripotent Stem Cells/immunology/transplantation
Animals
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1/therapy/immunology
*Stem Cell Transplantation/methods
*Graft Rejection/immunology/prevention & control
*Immune System

@article {pmid42560049,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Ye, Q},
title = {From decline to resurgence: current perspectives on Mycoplasma pneumoniae.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e0005126},
doi = {10.1128/cmr.00051-26},
pmid = {42560049},
issn = {1098-6618},
abstract = {SUMMARYMycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (MPP) is an acute respiratory infection caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) and constitutes the primary cause of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) among children aged 5 years and older in China. The clinical manifestations of MP-associated respiratory disease in children are diverse, ranging from mild upper respiratory symptoms to life-threatening pneumonia. Notably, during the implementation of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) aimed at curbing SARS-CoV-2 transmission, there was a significant decline in MP infection rates. However, a pronounced global resurgence of MP infections was documented in 2023-2024. The increasing global prevalence of macrolide resistance, particularly in China, coupled with limited alternative antibiotic options for children, increasing rates of coinfections, and the absence of a preventive vaccine, collectively exacerbate treatment challenges and increase the disease burden. Furthermore, the insufficient availability of MP nucleic acid testing and antimicrobial resistance surveillance in primary healthcare settings, coupled with the absence of a comprehensive epidemiological monitoring network, results in a vicious public health cycle. Recent advances and emerging genomic data have provided new insights into its pathogenesis and clinical management. Therefore, in this narrative review, we aim to (i) synthesize the current understanding of the etiological characteristics of MP and the present status of MPP diagnosis and treatment; (ii) analyze recent advances and drivers behind the global resurgence of MP infections; and (iii) propose integrated prevention and control strategies to increase the recognition of MPP and prevent unanticipated outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid42560673,
year = {2026},
author = {Sung, GCY and Wu, Y and Fan, S and Dal Santo, T and González-Domínguez, NP and Sun, Y and Li, L and Li, K and Jiang, X and Tasleem, A and Wang, Y and Boruff, JT and Desai, P and Tougas, B and D'Onofrio, M and Krishnan, A and Adams, C and He, C and Henry, RS and Alkan, A and Rice, DB and Markham, S and Azar, M and Nassar, EL and Hu, S and Cañedo-Ayala, M and Neupane, D and Benedetti, A and Thombs, BD},
title = {Mental Health Symptom Changes by Sex or Gender Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {JAMA network open},
volume = {9},
number = {8},
pages = {e2627595},
doi = {10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2026.27595},
pmid = {42560673},
issn = {2574-3805},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Female ; Male ; *Anxiety/epidemiology ; *Depression/epidemiology ; Sex Factors ; Pandemics ; *Mental Health/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Stress, Psychological/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: A previous systematic review reported that general mental health and anxiety symptoms, but not depression or stress, worsened more for females or women than for males or men from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic based on 12 studies published up to August 2021.

OBJECTIVE: To update a systematic review on sex or gender differences in mental health symptom changes from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DATA SOURCES: Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, medRxiv, and Open Science Framework Preprints were searched from December 31, 2019, to August 31, 2023.

STUDY SELECTION: Eligible studies included data to calculate changes in general mental health, anxiety symptoms, depression symptoms, or stress from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic by sex or gender.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Standardized mean differences (SMDs) for continuous changes and proportions for dichotomous changes were used. Two independent reviewers extracted data and evaluated risk of bias. Data were pooled via random-effects models on March 21, 2024.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The main outcome was the differences in SMD changes and proportions between women or females and men or males of mental health symptoms from before the COVID-19 pandemic to during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RESULTS: The study included 27 unique cohorts from 14 countries (n = 102-18 127; 31 155 women or females and 30 737 men or males). Differences in SMD change between men and women were minimal and not statistically significant for continuous outcomes of general mental health (0.01 [95% CI, -0.07 to 0.10 and 95% prediction interval (PI), -0.23 to 0.25]; 8 cohorts; 21 762 participants; heterogeneity [I2] = 81.4%), anxiety (0.09 [95% CI, -0.04 to 0.22 and 95% PI, -0.27 to 0.45]; 7 cohorts; 6039 participants; I2 = 68.7%), depression (0.10 [95% CI, -0.00 to 0.20 and 95% PI, -0.23 to 0.43]; 12 cohorts; 9750 participants; I2 = 65.4%), and stress (-0.08 [95% CI, -0.16 to 0.01 and 95% PI, -0.18 to 0.02]; 8 cohorts; 2994 participants; I2 = 0%). Substantial heterogeneity, high risk of bias, or both were present across analyses. No studies reported changes for gender minority groups (eg, transgender, nonbinary).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE: In this systematic review and meta-analysis of sex or gender differences in mental health changes from before to during the COVID-19 pandemic, no significant differences were found. However, findings should be interpreted cautiously and may not apply in all settings due to heterogeneity and methodological limitations of included studies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Female
Male
*Anxiety/epidemiology
*Depression/epidemiology
Sex Factors
Pandemics
*Mental Health/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
*Stress, Psychological/epidemiology

@article {pmid42563962,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, R},
title = {Human interferon-ω: an underappreciated type I interferon.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1891351},
pmid = {42563962},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Interferon Type I/immunology/genetics ; Autoantibodies/immunology ; Autoimmunity ; Animals ; Immune Tolerance ; Virus Diseases/immunology ; },
abstract = {Interferon-ω (IFN-ω) is a member of the human type I interferon family that has historically been overshadowed by IFN-α and IFN-β. Recent human "natural perturbations", most notably selective neutralization of IFN-ω by autoantibodies in life-threatening viral infections, have renewed interest in this comparatively understudied cytokine and indicate that its antiviral activity may not always be fully compensated in defined clinical settings. This renewed focus has prompted reassessment of its single-gene organization, distinct antigenicity, intermediate receptor-binding kinetics, cellular sources, and regulatory mechanisms. In parallel, thymus-centered tolerance disorders, including autoimmune regulator (AIRE) deficiency, additional inborn errors of immune tolerance, and acquired "sick thymus" states, establish anti-IFN-ω autoantibodies as a stable, high-penetrance immunophenotype linking tolerance failure to durable cytokine-directed autoimmunity. Beyond antiviral defense, multi-omic studies in lupus-spectrum disease suggest tissue- and compartment-specific IFN-ω signals within broader type I interferon programs, yet endogenous IFN-ω remains rarely quantified with ligand-level resolution. This Review integrates current knowledge of IFN-ω from molecular regulation to human disease. Further progress will require subtype-resolved measurement, direct comparison with other type I interferons under matched conditions, and human genetic studies testing whether rare IFNW1 variants contribute to severe viral disease.},
}

Humans
*Interferon Type I/immunology/genetics
Autoantibodies/immunology
Autoimmunity
Animals
Immune Tolerance
Virus Diseases/immunology

@article {pmid37231727,
year = {2024},
author = {Mishra, R and Chaudhary, K and Mishra, I},
title = {Weapons and Strategies against COVID-19: A Perspective.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical biotechnology},
volume = {25},
number = {2},
pages = {144-158},
doi = {10.2174/1389201024666230525161432},
pmid = {37231727},
issn = {1873-4316},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Repositioning/methods ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy ; *Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Currently, there are no approved treatments for the fatal infectious coronavirus disease. The process of identifying new applications for approved pharmaceuticals is called drug repurposing. It is a very successful strategy for drug development as it takes less time and cost to uncover a therapeutic agent than the de novo procedure. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the seventh coronavirus that has been identified as a causative agent in humans. SARS-CoV-2 has been recorded in 213 countries, with over 31 million confirmed cases and an estimated death rate of 3%. Medication repositioning may indeed be regarded as a unique therapeutic option for COVID-19 in the present situation. There are various drugs and techniques, which are being used to treat the symptoms of COVID-19. These agents are directed against the viral replication cycle, viral entrance, and viral translocation to the nucleus. Additionally, some can boost the innate antiviral immune response. Drug repurposing is a sensible method and could be a vital approach to treat COVID-19. Combining some of the drugs or supplements with an immunomodulatory diet, psychological assistance, and adherence to standards can ultimately act against COVID-19. A better knowledge of the virus itself and its enzymes will enable the development of more precise and efficient direct-acting antivirals. The primary aim of this review is to present the various aspects of this disease, including various strategies against COVID-19.},
}

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

@article {pmid42555410,
year = {2026},
author = {Mashhadi Abolghasem Shirazi, M},
title = {Comparative innate immune responses across major RNA and DNA viral infections: Mechanisms, immunopathology, and therapeutic perspectives.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2714657},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2026.2714657},
pmid = {42555410},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate/immunology ; *DNA Virus Infections/immunology/pathology/drug therapy/therapy ; Innate Immunity Recognition ; *RNA Virus Infections/immunology/pathology/drug therapy ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Animals ; cGAS-STING Signaling Pathway ; *RNA Viruses/immunology ; Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology ; *DNA Viruses/immunology ; Host-Directed Therapy ; Immune Evasion ; },
abstract = {Innate immunity is the first defense against viral infections, limiting viral replication and initiating adaptive immunity. Viral pathogens are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), (RIG-I-like receptors) RLRs, and the (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase) cGAS-STING pathway, which trigger interferon production and antiviral responses. This review compares innate immune responses to major RNA viruses (influenza, SARS-CoV-2, HIV) and DNA viruses (HSV, HBV, CMV). While these viruses activate similar pathways, they differ in interferon dynamics, inflammatory responses, immune cell activation, and immune evasion mechanisms. RNA viruses often induce rapid and strong innate responses, whereas many DNA viruses establish persistence through immune modulation. Dysregulated innate immunity can contribute to cytokine storms, chronic inflammation, and tissue damage. Therapeutic strategies targeting innate immunity, such as interferons, cytokine inhibitors, PRR agonists, and host-directed antivirals, may improve outcomes. Infection severity depends on the timing, magnitude, and regulation of innate immune responses.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate/immunology
*DNA Virus Infections/immunology/pathology/drug therapy/therapy
Innate Immunity Recognition
*RNA Virus Infections/immunology/pathology/drug therapy
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Animals
cGAS-STING Signaling Pathway
*RNA Viruses/immunology
Receptors, Pattern Recognition/immunology
*DNA Viruses/immunology
Host-Directed Therapy
Immune Evasion