@article {pmid41606213,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferreira, AGS and Garcia, HWC and da Silva, SS and da Silva, FAMF and Ferreira, JWL and da Silva Lopes, IMS},
title = {The role of sense of control and locus of control in depressive and anxious symptoms during COVID-19: an integrative review.},
journal = {Psicologia, reflexao e critica : revista semestral do Departamento de Psicologia da UFRGS},
volume = {39},
number = {1},
pages = {5},
pmid = {41606213},
issn = {0102-7972},
}

@article {pmid41605610,
year = {2026},
author = {Oreskovic, E and Petzold, A and Petropoulos, IN and Hau, S},
title = {Corneal confocal microscopy as a paraclinical test in neurodegenerative disease: a scoping review.},
journal = {The British journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bjo-2025-328181},
pmid = {41605610},
issn = {1468-2079},
abstract = {Corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) is a non-invasive imaging technique that enables quantification of the corneal sub-basal nerve plexus and has emerged as a potential surrogate biomarker for peripheral neurodegeneration. This scoping review evaluated current evidence on the use of CCM in assessing corneal nerve fibre changes across neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and explored its potential as a paraclinical diagnostic and monitoring tool. A comprehensive search of PubMed and Scopus was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines to identify studies reporting quantitative CCM metrics, including corneal nerve fibre density (CNFD), corneal nerve branch density (CNBD) and corneal nerve fibre length (CNFL). Both cross-sectional and longitudinal studies of patients with NDDs were included, and findings were narratively synthesised. 50 studies were included: Parkinson's disease (n=13), multiple sclerosis (n=11), cerebrovascular accidents (n=7), post-COVID-19 neuropathy (n=5), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (n=4), chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (n=4), Alzheimer's disease (n=3), Fabry disease (n=2) and neurofibromatosis type 1 (n=1). CNFL and CNFD were consistently reduced in Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebrovascular accidents, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy and post-COVID-19 neuropathy, whereas CNBD results were inconsistent. The strongest evidence supported the role of CCM in Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. CNFL and CNFD emerged as the most reliable CCM-derived metrics across NDDs, supporting their potential as objective biomarkers for neurodegeneration. While findings support the potential of CCM as a paraclinical diagnostic tool, methodological heterogeneity in image acquisition, analysis software and study design limited comparability. Standardised imaging and analysis protocols are needed to enable broader clinical application and validation across NDDs.},
}

@article {pmid41605119,
year = {2026},
author = {Groen, K and Hale, BG},
title = {Human autoantibodies against type I interferons in severe viral disease.},
journal = {Current opinion in virology},
volume = {74},
number = {},
pages = {101511},
doi = {10.1016/j.coviro.2026.101511},
pmid = {41605119},
issn = {1879-6265},
abstract = {Type I interferons (IFN-Is) are critical antiviral cytokines that restrict viral replication and limit viral disease. A remarkable recent discovery is that human autoantibodies (autoAbs) neutralizing the activities of IFN-Is phenocopy inborn errors of immunity and markedly exacerbate susceptibility to life-threatening infections. Development of these pathogenic autoAbs in humans is strongly linked to genetic and nongenetic factors affecting thymic function, and they are estimated to be present in >100 million people worldwide with a prevalence that increases with age. Here, we review major advances from the last few years that have improved our mechanistic understanding of human IFN-I autoAb development and function, as well as their association with a significant proportion of different severe viral diseases. In particular, we highlight how neutralizing IFN-I autoAbs can persist in individuals for decades, compromising IFN-I-mediated defenses, and underlying subsequent critical infections with diverse pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, West Nile virus, tick-borne encephalitis virus, seasonal influenza viruses, herpesviruses, and rare zoonoses caused by MERS-CoV, flaviviruses, and avian H5N1 influenza A virus. Furthermore, we discuss how neutralizing IFN-I autoAbs facilitate severe adverse events with live-attenuated viral vaccines, such as the yellow fever or chikungunya virus vaccines, and suggest how implementation of IFN-I autoAb diagnostics in at-risk populations may be clinically beneficial with current prophylactic or therapeutic options. Finally, in the context of new experimental insights into how autoAbs block the ability of IFN-Is to engage with the IFNAR1/IFNAR2 receptors, we detail future opportunities to design advanced novel therapeutic strategies that might specifically mitigate IFN-I autoAb pathogenic effects.},
}

@article {pmid41605062,
year = {2026},
author = {Mattedi, FZ and Ribeiro, HS and Busatto, GF and Carvalho, CRR and Zanetta, DMT and Burdmann, EA and , },
title = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome and acute kidney injury in critically ill patients: A scoping review on this lung-kidney crosstalk.},
journal = {Journal of critical care},
volume = {93},
number = {},
pages = {155445},
doi = {10.1016/j.jcrc.2026.155445},
pmid = {41605062},
issn = {1557-8615},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is high; nonetheless, the lung-kidney crosstalk remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE: Describe the association between ARDS and AKI in critically ill patients.

METHODS: This scoping review was conducted according to the JBI and PRISM-ScR and included studies that investigated critically ill patients with ARDS (Participants), described AKI-related outcomes (Concept), and were conducted in hospitals (Context). MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS databases were searched for articles published up to January 2024. Only observational studies were considered. Data on the diagnosis of ARDS-AKI and other kidney-related outcomes were extracted.

RESULTS: A total of 2943 studies were screened, of which 28 were included in this review. Most studies were prospective and the majority originated from Europe. AKI was diagnosed using the KDIGO criteria in most studies and the pooled overall rate of AKI development across the studies was 46.8% (95% CI: 40.8-52.8). Two reports identified ARDS as an independent risk factor for AKI. Kidney replacement therapy was described in 17 studies. AKI recovery was described in only three studies. Seventeen studies evaluated hospital mortality, specifically in patients with ARDS-AKI, and found a greater mortality risk as compared to only ARDS.

CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review emphasizes the variability of the evidence, which hinders definitive conclusions about the association between ARDS and AKI, despite their common occurrence in critically ill patients. Therefore, a significant gap remains in our understanding of this lung-kidney interaction.},
}

@article {pmid41604899,
year = {2026},
author = {Saxena, SK and Yadav, J and Kishan, H and Harnam, AS and Kumar, S and Maurya, VK and Ansari, S and Paweska, JT and Ratho, RK},
title = {Pathogenesis and current advancement in treatment and prevention strategies for Human metapneumovirus.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {617},
number = {},
pages = {110798},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2026.110798},
pmid = {41604899},
issn = {1096-0341},
abstract = {Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a well-identified paramyxovirus that has emerged as a significant global health threat, particularly following recent outbreaks in 2024-2025. It preferentially infects the respiratory epithelium and affects infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised populations. The clinical manifestations of the HMPV range from mild upper respiratory symptoms to severe diffuse bronchopneumonia. As of late 2024 and early 2025, HMPV has been responsible for 6.2% of positive respiratory illness tests and 5.4% of respiratory-associated hospitalizations in China, surpassing COVID-19, rhinovirus, and adenovirus. HMPV is a non-segmented, negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus with a genome of about 13.3 kb, and it is genetically related to Orthopneumovirus, particularly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Its transmission occurs primarily within households, and the virus poses significant risks to vulnerable populations. Immunologic responses to HMPV infections are diverse, with limited lasting immunity, leading to frequent reinfections. Diagnosis is problematic due to overlapping clinical manifestations of the disease alongside other respiratory viruses like RSV and influenza. Presently, no vaccines or antiviral treatments are available for HMPV, though several vaccine candidates are under investigation, including mRNA-1653 and IVX-A12, which have shown promising results in Phase I and Phase II clinical trials. Recent advances in understanding HMPV's molecular biology and immune modulation have led to exploring new therapeutic strategies, including monoclonal antibodies, fusion inhibitors, and RNA interference-based therapies.},
}

@article {pmid41604670,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, M and Tang, F and Min, L and Wen, S and Wang, S and Jiang, H},
title = {Effects of Telehealth Interventions for People With Parkinson Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.},
journal = {JMIR mHealth and uHealth},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e70994},
doi = {10.2196/70994},
pmid = {41604670},
issn = {2291-5222},
mesh = {Humans ; *Parkinson Disease/therapy/psychology ; *Telemedicine/standards/statistics & numerical data ; Quality of Life/psychology ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Activities of Daily Living/psychology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Depression ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global integration of telehealth into the management of Parkinson disease (PD) addresses critical gaps in health care access, especially for patients with limited mobility in underserved regions. Despite accelerated adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence regarding telehealth's multidimensional efficacy remains inconsistent. Previous meta-analyses reported conflicting outcomes for quality of life (QOL), motor symptoms, and neuropsychiatric comorbidities.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to quantitatively synthesize the effects of telehealth interventions across six core PD domains: (1) QOL, (2) depression, (3) anxiety, (4) motor symptoms, (5) activities of daily living (ADL), and (6) cognition.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science were systematically searched until June 21, 2024. In adherence to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, English-language randomized controlled trials evaluating telehealth interventions for PD were included. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. A dual analytical approach using random-effects models was applied to address heterogeneity. Studies reporting a single effect size were analyzed using the Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman correction. Studies with multiple dependent effect sizes were analyzed using a 3-level random-effects meta-analysis with t-distribution inference, accounting for sampling, within-study, and between-study variance. Effect sizes were expressed as standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% CIs. Heterogeneity was quantified using the τ[2]; prediction intervals were not calculated due to the limited number of studies. Prespecified subgroup analyses examined intervention types (digital vs traditional telehealth) and follow-up durations. Sensitivity analyses and assessments for small-study effects (multilevel Egger tests, funnel plots) were conducted.

RESULTS: A total of 15 randomized controlled trials (765 participants) demonstrated significant telehealth benefits: QOL significantly improved on the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey and Brunnsviken Brief Quality of Life Scale (SMD 0.39, 95% CI 0.06-0.72; P=.03), with marginal improvement on the Parkinson Disease Questionnaire-8 (SMD -0.42, 95% CI -0.88 to 0.03; P=.07). Telephone-based interventions outperformed digital approaches (P=.002). Depression symptoms were significantly reduced (SMD -0.64, 95% CI -0.93 to 0.34; P<.001), particularly with traditional telehealth (P<.001). Anxiety also decreased significantly (SMD -0.64, 95% CI -0.92 to 0.35; P=.003) with negligible heterogeneity (I[2]=0%). Motor symptoms improved (SMD -0.46, 95% CI -0.69 to 0.24; P=.001), and ADL showed substantial impairment reduction (SMD -0.79, 95% CI -1.04 to -0.54; P=.002). Cognition was significantly enhanced (SMD 1.12, 95% CI 0.03 to 2.20; P=.045) though with moderate heterogeneity (I[2]=52.3%) and significant publication bias (P<.001). Follow-up duration did not significantly moderate effects.

CONCLUSIONS: Telehealth interventions significantly enhance multiple PD domains, with traditional (telephone/tablet-based) approaches demonstrating particular advantages for QOL and depression. Digital interventions showed more limited efficacy. These findings support telehealth as a multifaceted management tool for PD, although cognition outcomes require further investigation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024520169; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024520169.},
}

Humans
*Parkinson Disease/therapy/psychology
*Telemedicine/standards/statistics & numerical data
Quality of Life/psychology
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Activities of Daily Living/psychology
COVID-19/epidemiology
Depression

@article {pmid41604358,
year = {2026},
author = {Palacio Varona, J and Rojas Manjarres, AM and Gómez-Buitrago, MI and Castro-Caro, J and Gonzalez-Parra, JD and Del Portillo, MC and Prada, A and Villegas-Gomez, GA},
title = {Global, regional and national patterns in ROP research up to the pre-COVID-19 era: A systematic bibliometric review between 1950 to 2020.},
journal = {European journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {11206721261415977},
doi = {10.1177/11206721261415977},
pmid = {41604358},
issn = {1724-6016},
abstract = {Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness, predominantly affecting preterm infants. Global disparities in neonatal care and research capacity influence the volume and visibility of scientific production devoted to ROP across regions. This systematic bibliometric review aimed to characterize global, regional, and national patterns of ROP research published between 1950 and 2020, including temporal trends, geographic distribution, thematic focus, and citation impact. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO identified 4,932 eligible articles. Most publications originated from the Region of the Americas (Pan American Health Organization, PAHO; 44.2%), the European Region (EURO; 28.0%), and the Western Pacific Region (WPRO; 16.0%). High-income countries accounted for 73.4% of the total output, whereas lower-middle- and low-income countries were markedly underrepresented. The most frequent research themes were risk/protective factors (25.0%) and treatment and outcomes (23.5%), while studies addressing surveillance and public health policies were scarce (6.3%). Scientific output increased markedly after the 1980s, with particularly rapid growth in recent decades in the Western Pacific and South-East Asia Regions. Citation analysis revealed substantial regional inequalities, with publications from high-income regions accounting for the majority of global citations and higher per-article impact. Overall, ROP research remains highly concentrated in high-income settings, reflecting persistent global disparities in scientific production and visibility. Strengthening research capacity and output in underrepresented regions is essential to promote more equitable evidence generation and to support informed decision-making in global eye health.},
}

@article {pmid41604346,
year = {2026},
author = {Cénat, JM and Darius, WP and Moshirian Farahi, SMM and Kibret, TC and Samson, E and Chen, R and Kuk, SW and Ogbuaku Jnr, K and Steacy, E and Labelle, PR and Madigan, S and Dalexis, RD},
title = {Prevalence and Correlates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Canada: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Prévalence et corrélats des symptômes du trouble de stress post-traumatique pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 au Canada : Revue systématique et méta-analyse.},
journal = {Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {7067437251408179},
doi = {10.1177/07067437251408179},
pmid = {41604346},
issn = {1497-0015},
abstract = {BackgroundInfectious disease outbreaks have been associated with significant psychological distress and trauma. In Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic's social disruptions have heightened mental health risks. While global studies report elevated posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, Canadian findings remain limited and inconsistent. This meta-analysis estimated pooled prevalence of PTSD symptoms in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined potential moderators.MethodsA comprehensive search strategy was executed by research librarians across five databases (APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE and Web of Science) and on LitCovid. The PRISMA guidelines were used for data extraction and reporting. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate pooled PTSD symptoms prevalence and explore potential moderators using the metaprop command in STATA/SE 19.5.ResultsThirty studies conducted between 2020 and 2022, with 52,565 participants aged 18 and older were included (65% weighted women). The pooled prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 22.2% (95% CI, 15.7% to 29.4%; I[2]=99.69). Prevalence was 32.1% in women, 26.1% in men (p = 0.399) and ranged from 16.1% in Quebec to 29.7% in Ontario (p = 0.091). Meta-regressions showed lower PTSD symptoms prevalence in Quebec (B=-0.16, p = 0.029). No significant differences in PTSD symptoms were found according to sex, healthcare worker status, assessment tool used, or data collection year.ConclusionsThis meta-analysis reveals a concerning prevalence of PTSD symptoms in the Canadian population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to expectations, no significant differences were found by sex or healthcare worker status, suggesting widespread psychological distress across the population. However, the substantial heterogeneity across studies limits the interpretation of these findings in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results emphasize the need for inclusive and accessible mental health responses and further research on post-pandemic Canadians' mental health. Future studies should better disaggregate data by sex, age and race to address disparities and inform targeted public health policies and interventions.},
}

@article {pmid41603321,
year = {2026},
author = {Silveira, IB and Silva, GP and Sampaio, AVH and Tomé, MR and Chen, JE and de Jesus, AVS and Cançado, GGL},
title = {Synchronous Telemedicine Versus In-Person Care in Hepatitis C Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of viral hepatitis},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {e70144},
doi = {10.1111/jvh.70144},
pmid = {41603321},
issn = {1365-2893},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Sustained Virologic Response ; *Hepatitis C/drug therapy ; *Hepatitis C, Chronic/drug therapy ; COVID-19 ; Health Services Accessibility ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {Inequitable access to HCV treatment persists, particularly for rural and marginalised populations. Synchronous telemedicine (TM) could mitigate access barriers, but its comparative effectiveness versus in-person care is uncertain. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing synchronous TM with in-person care for HCV. The primary outcome was sustained virologic response (SVR); secondary outcomes were treatment initiation and completion. Subgroup analyses examined study design, therapy era (interferon vs. direct-acting antivirals [DAAs]), and setting (rural vs. non-rural). Narrative synthesis addressed people who use drugs (PWUD), incarcerated populations, pandemic-era cohorts, and economic evaluations. Fifteen studies involving 7.459 patients (2 RCTs, 13 observational) were included (13 meta-analysed). For SVR, the pooled effect showed no significant difference between interventions (odds ratio [OR] 1.60, 95% CI 0.69-3.68). Treatment initiation and completion were also not significantly different overall (initiation OR 7.59, 95% CI 0.79-72.81; completion OR 2.50, 95% CI 0.76-8.25), although exclusion of single influential studies yielded significant benefits for TM in sensitivity analyses. Subgroups suggested context-specific advantages: TM favoured SVR in rural settings (OR = 4.19, 95% CI 1.28-13.73) and in RCTs (OR = 10.42, 95% CI 7.41-14.67). Narrative evidence indicated that TM improved linkage and cure among PWUD and incarcerated individuals, preserved efficacy during COVID-19, and reduced costs. Overall, synchronous TM seems comparable to in-person care overall and may be superior in rural and marginalised populations.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Sustained Virologic Response
*Hepatitis C/drug therapy
*Hepatitis C, Chronic/drug therapy
COVID-19
Health Services Accessibility
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid41602864,
year = {2025},
author = {Dasgupta, T and Russell, E and Carbajal, C and Horgan, G and Peterson, L and Mistry, HD and Buabeng, R and Wilson, M and Smith, V and Boulding, H and Sheen, KS and Van Citters, AD and Nelson, EC and Duncan, EL and von Dadelszen, P and , and Silverio, SA and Magee, LA},
title = {Seeking digital maternity healthcare during the pandemic health system shock: a systematic review of women's experiences in low- and middle-income countries.},
journal = {Frontiers in reproductive health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1734456},
pmid = {41602864},
issn = {2673-3153},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The pandemic created global disruption acting as a health system shock not seen before in living memory. As a consequence, there were significant implications for healthcare delivery in low- and middle-income countries. Challenges such as lockdown restrictions created substantial modifications to the delivery of maternity care. This review aims to explore the experiences of maternity care by women, specifically in low- and middle-income countries, during the pandemic global health system shock.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted for qualitative literature published about maternity healthcare experiences during the pandemic. Studies which provided qualitative data on women's experiences of digital healthcare, and other maternity care reconfigurations in low- and middle-income countries were included. The studies underwent quality assessment using twelve criteria adapted from the quality appraisal tool developed by the Evidence for Policy & Practice Information (EPPI) Centre. Thematic synthesis was employed.

RESULTS: Of the 21,860 records identified, 30 met the inclusion criteria for this review. Across the 4 key predetermined areas of study: (1) Care seeking and experience; (2) Digital health; (3) Vaccination; and (4) Ethical future of maternity services; 10 concepts were reported upon, namely: (1.1) Emotional challenges and uncertainty, (1.2) Disruption of services, (1.3) Stigma and discrimination, and (1.4) Changing support systems; (2.1) Safety and reassurance, (2.2) Locus of responsibility; (3.1) Vaccine understanding and acceptance; and (4.1) Improvements for maternity care delivery, (4.2) Implementation of virtual care, (4.3) Education and empowerment.

CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest emotional challenges, isolation, and limited access to maternity services were prominent among pregnant individuals in low- and middle-income countries. This synthesis provides insights into how pandemic associated adaptations, which have been retained beyond, such as digital health solutions were experienced by women within constrained health systems, revealing both opportunities and persistent gaps in digital health access and equity. Although a review of low- and middle-income countries-there is learning to be taken from these settings which could easily be applied not only across low- and middle-income countries, but also in high-income settings, in the form of reverse (or "trickle-up") innovation to improve maternity care as we recover and re-build from the pandemic and offer more resilient ways of providing maternity care through future health system shocks. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42022355948, identifier CRD42022355948.},
}

@article {pmid41601020,
year = {2026},
author = {See, KC},
title = {Vaccination Against Respiratory Infections in Adults with Cancer: A Concise Guide for Clinicians.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14010105},
pmid = {41601020},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Global cancer incidence reached 20 million new cases across 185 countries in 2022, with approximately 10 million cancer-related deaths annually. Among adults with solid tumors and hematological malignancies, infections are a major contributor to morbidity and mortality, with respiratory infections playing a particularly significant role. These infections not only reduce life expectancy but can also delay cancer therapy, negatively affect treatment outcomes, and increase healthcare costs. In recent years, the burden of respiratory infections in this population has been driven by influenza virus, SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Bordetella pertussis. Effective vaccines are available for all these pathogens and are recommended for adults with cancer, yet vaccination uptake remains suboptimal despite their heightened vulnerability. This review provides practical guidance for healthcare professionals on vaccinating adults with cancer against respiratory infections, summarizing key information to help clinicians address vaccination-related complacency, confidence, and convenience. Evidence from studies in both the general population and cancer patients consistently shows that vaccination benefits outweigh potential risks, with adverse event rates comparable to those seen in individuals without cancer. Early vaccination is encouraged, as there is limited justification for delaying immunization even when immune responses may be reduced. Vaccine dosing aligns with recommendations for the general population, with important exceptions. Live attenuated vaccines should be avoided because of the risk of replication and disease in immunocompromised patients, and selected groups may require booster doses to achieve adequate protection. Notably, cancer immunotherapy does not appear to impair vaccine-induced immune responses.},
}

@article {pmid41600988,
year = {2026},
author = {Alkhidir, M and Sridharan, K},
title = {Efficacy and Safety of mRNA-Based COVID-19 Vaccines in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14010072},
pmid = {41600988},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are highly vulnerable to severe COVID-19 infection, yet initial vaccine trials provided limited data on efficacy and safety in this immunocompromised population. Heterogeneous seroconversion rates and conflicting safety reports complicate the formulation of clear clinical guidelines. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to aggregate existing evidence to determine the precise seroconversion and safety profiles of COVID-19 vaccines and identify key factors influencing immune response in SOTRs.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted identifying 125 studies evaluating WHO/FDA-authorized vaccines in SOTRs. Outcomes were the pooled seroconversion proportion and safety profile. Subgroup analyses were performed based on vaccine type, transplanted organ, number of doses, and prior SARS-CoV-2 infection status, confirmed by leave-one-out sensitivity analysis and bootstrap methods.

RESULTS: Most studies assessed mRNA-based vaccines (123/125, 98.4%). The overall pooled seroconversion proportion across all SOTRs was significantly blunted at 0.49 (95% CI, 0.43 to 0.55), demonstrating high heterogeneity (I[2] = 94.2%). Seroconversion showed a clear positive dose-response relationship, increasing from 27% after one dose to 84% after four doses. Prior COVID-19 infection was the strongest predictor of a response, resulting in a pooled seroconversion of 0.90 (95% CI, 0.82 to 0.94; I[2] = 0%). Organ-specific analyses revealed the highest response in Liver recipients (0.80) and the lowest in Lung recipients (0.29). Vaccine platform analysis showed that the highest response was with mRNA-1273 (0.55) and the lowest with CoronaVac (0.29). The safety profile was limited.

CONCLUSIONS: SOTRs exhibit profound hypo responsiveness to COVID-19 vaccines; however, the extreme heterogeneity observed across studies necessitates a cautious interpretation of pooled seroconversion estimates. While the data indicates a significant dose-response relationship favoring an aggressive, multi-dose strategy, the apparent safety profile may reflect under-reporting and limited follow-up rather than confirmed safety equivalence. Rare but clinically critical outcomes, such as acute allograft rejection, remain inadequately characterized in the current literature. Consequently, while the prioritization of multi-dose regimens and hybrid immunity is supported to maximize protection, clinicians must recognize that individual responses remain highly variable, and the long-term immunological impact of repeated stimulation requires further standardized investigation.},
}

@article {pmid41600927,
year = {2025},
author = {Esposito, S and Aurelio, C and Cifaldi, M and Lazzara, A and Viafora, F and Principi, N},
title = {Prevention of Respiratory Infections in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: Current Evidence and Clinical Strategies.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14010011},
pmid = {41600927},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Background: Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) are at substantially increased risk for respiratory infections, which occur more frequently and with greater severity than in healthy peers. This heightened vulnerability stems from multifactorial immune impairment, including defects in innate and adaptive immunity, chronic inflammation related to abnormal hemodynamics and hypoxia, reduced thymic function, and genetic syndromes affecting both cardiac and immune development. Viral pathogens-particularly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza viruses, and SARS-CoV-2-account for most infections, although bacterial pathogens remain relevant, especially in postoperative settings. Methods: This narrative review summarizes current evidence on infection susceptibility in children with CHD, the epidemiology and clinical relevance of major respiratory pathogens, and the effectiveness of available preventive measures. Literature evaluating immunological mechanisms, infection burden, vaccine effectiveness, and passive immunization strategies was examined, along with existing national and international immunization guidelines. Results: Children with CHD consistently exhibit higher rates of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, and mortality following respiratory infections. RSV, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2 infections are particularly severe in this population, while bacterial infections, though less common, contribute substantially to postoperative morbidity. Preventive options-including routine childhood vaccines, pneumococcal and Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccines, influenza vaccines, COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, and RSV monoclonal antibodies-demonstrate strong protective effects. New long-acting RSV monoclonal antibodies and maternal vaccination markedly enhance prevention in early infancy. However, vaccine coverage remains insufficient due to parental hesitancy, provider uncertainty, delayed immunization, and limited CHD-specific evidence. Conclusions: Respiratory infections pose a significant and preventable health burden in children with CHD. Enhancing the use of both active and passive immunization is essential to reduce morbidity and mortality. Strengthening evidence-based guidelines, improving coordination between specialists and primary care providers, integrating immunization checks into routine CHD management, and providing clear, condition-specific counseling to families can substantially improve vaccine uptake and clinical outcomes in this vulnerable population.},
}

@article {pmid41600887,
year = {2026},
author = {Maslov, DE and Osipov, ID and Zabelina, DS and Pak, AA and Netesov, SV},
title = {Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prevalence and Genotypic Distribution in the Countries of the Former Soviet Union: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18010126},
pmid = {41600887},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {FSUS-2025-0017 and FSUS-2025-0012//Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Russian Federation/ ; The "Prioritet-2030" program//Novosibirsk State University/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology/virology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human/genetics/classification ; Prevalence ; Genotype ; USSR/epidemiology ; Seasons ; COVID-19/epidemiology/virology ; Infant ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; Adult ; },
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is among leading global causes of lower respiratory tract infections, yet data from Russia and other states of the Former Soviet Union (FSU) remain fragmented and structurally inconsistent. This systematic review aims to map and synthesize existing evidence on RSV epidemiology and genotypic distribution across the FSU. Published studies from eLIBRARY and PubMed databases queried for RSV prevalence data, together with public health surveillance datasets, were used to summarize RSV prevalence research across eight FSU countries. Random-effects meta-analysis across age strata showed high prevalence in children before 6 (21%) and a progressive decline with age, which is in agreement with global data. Prevalence estimates showed a high degree of variability partially explained by study scope and clinical presentation. We observed COVID-19-related seasonal disruptions of RSV seasonality, followed by gradual post-pandemic stabilization. Genotypic data reflects global trends with two cosmopolitan clades, A.D and B.D, and their descendants, dominating in the region. The review is limited by uneven geographical and temporal coverage, and scarce data on adults. The review provides the first integrated summary of RSV epidemiology across the FSU and underscores the need for expanded regional surveillance and genomic reporting.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology/virology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human/genetics/classification
Prevalence
Genotype
USSR/epidemiology
Seasons
COVID-19/epidemiology/virology
Infant
Child
Child, Preschool
Adult

@article {pmid41600815,
year = {2025},
author = {Hamza, IA and Mao, K and Gao, C and Hamza, H and Zhang, H},
title = {Elements of Viral Outbreak Preparedness: Lessons, Strategies, and Future Directions.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18010050},
pmid = {41600815},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {FS-2024-34//CAS-ANSO/ ; 2023415//Chinese Academy of Sciences/ ; 24291703Z//Hebei Provincial Science and Technology Projects/ ; Qiankehe Platform Talents-GCC [2023] 046//Guizhou Provincial Science and Technology Projects/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Emerging and re-emerging viruses continue to pose major threats to public health. Their ability to adapt, cross species barriers, and spread rapidly can trigger severe outbreaks or even pandemics. Strengthening preparedness with comprehensive and efficient strategies is therefore essential. Here, we explore the key components of viral outbreak preparedness, including surveillance systems, diagnostic capacity, prevention and control measures, non-pharmaceutical interventions, antiviral therapeutics, and research and development. We emphasize the increasing importance of genomic surveillance, wastewater-based surveillance, real-time data sharing, and the One Health approach to better anticipate zoonotic spillovers. Current challenges and future directions are also discussed. Effective preparedness requires transparent risk communication and equitable access to diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted both the promise of next-generation vaccine platforms and the necessity of maintaining diagnostic capacity, as early testing delays hindered containment efforts. Countries adopted various non-pharmaceutical interventions: risk communication and social distancing proved to be the most effective, while combined workplace infection-prevention measures outperformed single strategies. These experiences highlight the importance of early detection, rapid response, and multisectoral collaboration in mitigating the impact of viral outbreaks. By applying best practices and lessons learned from recent events, global health systems can strengthen resilience and improve readiness for future viral threats.},
}

Humans
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology/diagnosis
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics/prevention & control
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control/epidemiology/diagnosis
Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control

@article {pmid41600776,
year = {2025},
author = {Giuliani, AAM and Chen, V and Law, N},
title = {Respiratory Viral Infection Prophylaxis and Treatment in the Transplant Population.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18010008},
pmid = {41600776},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/drug therapy/virology ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control/drug therapy ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis ; *Transplant Recipients ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control/drug therapy ; Viral Vaccines/immunology ; Post-Exposure Prophylaxis ; },
abstract = {Transplant patients experience high morbidity and mortality caused by respiratory viral infections (RVIs). In the past decade, numerous methods of prophylaxis and treatment have rapidly developed and continue to expand, with dozens of novel agents in preclinical and clinical trials. This includes recent scientific breakthroughs in virus structure, which have enabled the creation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines. While new vaccines, antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, and non-vaccine agents are becoming more available, their utility and safety in the transplant populations are often uncertain. This review summarizes the current landscape of RVIs in the transplant population, including approaches to pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis and treatment. We discuss the data behind vaccine timing, safety, and efficacy and current pre- and post-transplant recommendations, with a particular focus on influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV. We also examine the potential benefits of antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, and novel agents used as prophylaxis, treatment, or adjuncts. While there remain many knowledge gaps, these new methods and ongoing advancements in RVI treatment and prevention promise to improve transplant patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control/drug therapy/virology
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control/drug therapy
COVID-19/prevention & control
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis
*Transplant Recipients
Influenza, Human/prevention & control/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control/drug therapy
Viral Vaccines/immunology
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis

@article {pmid41600411,
year = {2026},
author = {Tiwari, AK and Gupta, MK and Mishra, SK and Meena, R and Patolsky, F and Narayan, RJ},
title = {Nanobiosensors: A Potential Tool to Decipher the Nexus Between SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Gut Dysbiosis.},
journal = {Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {26},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/s26020616},
pmid = {41600411},
issn = {1424-8220},
mesh = {*Dysbiosis/diagnosis/virology/microbiology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/complications ; *Biosensing Techniques/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/pathogenicity ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Nanotechnology/methods ; },
abstract = {The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 posed a great global threat and emphasized the urgent need for diagnostic tools that are rapid, reliable, sensitive and capable of real-time monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Recent investigations have identified a potential connection between SARS-CoV-2 infection and gut dysbiosis, highlighting the sophisticated interplay between the virus and the host microbiome. This review article discusses the eminence of nanobiosensors, as state-of-the-art tools, to investigate and clarify the connection between SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and gut microbiome imbalance. Nanobiosensors are uniquely advantageous owing to their sensitivity, selectivity, specificity, and reliable monitoring capabilities, making them well-suited for identifying both viral particles and microbial markers in biological samples. We explored a range of nanobiosensor platforms and their potential use for concurrently monitoring the gut dysbiosis induced by different pathological conditions. Additionally, we explore how advanced sensing technologies can shed light on the mechanisms driving virus-induced dysbiosis, and the implications for disease progression and patient outcomes. The integration of nanobiosensors with microfluidic devices and artificial intelligence algorithms has also been explored, highlighting the potential of developing point-of-care diagnostic tools that provide comprehensive insights into both viral infection and gut health. Utilizing nanotechnology, scientists and healthcare professionals may gain a more profound insight into the complex interaction dynamics between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the gut microenvironment. This could pave the way for enhanced diagnostic and prognostic approaches, treatment courses, and patient care for COVID-19.},
}

*Dysbiosis/diagnosis/virology/microbiology
Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/complications
*Biosensing Techniques/methods
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/pathogenicity
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Nanotechnology/methods

@article {pmid41599373,
year = {2026},
author = {Wan, X and Cui, X and Liang, K and Huang, J and Chen, K and Chen, W and Song, G},
title = {The Emerging Promise of Pentacyclic Triterpenoid Derivatives as Novel Antiviral Agents Against SARS-CoV-2 Variants.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31020325},
pmid = {41599373},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {2025A1515010495//Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation/ ; 2024KQNCX197//Youth Innovative Talents Project from the Department of Education of Guangdong Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Humans ; *Pentacyclic Triterpenes/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; COVID-19/virology ; *Triterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially the Omicron strain with its heightened transmissibility, has posed ongoing challenges to the efficacy of existing vaccine and drug regimens. This situation highlights the pressing demand for antiviral drugs employing novel mechanisms of action. Pentacyclic triterpenoids (PTs), a structurally varied group of compounds derived from plants, exhibit both antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, making them attractive candidates for further therapeutic development. These natural products, along with their saponin derivatives, show broad-spectrum inhibitory effects against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants (from Alpha to Omicron) via interactions with multiple targets, such as the spike protein, main protease (Mpro), RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), and inflammatory signaling pathways. This review consolidates recent findings on PTs and their saponins, emphasizing their influence on the key structural features required for inhibiting viral attachment, membrane fusion, reverse transcription, and protease function. We systematically summarized the structure-activity relationships and their antiviral results of PTs based on different target proteins in existing studies. Furthermore, this work points toward new strategies for designing multi-target PT-based inhibitors with improved efficacy against Omicron and future variants.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Humans
*Pentacyclic Triterpenes/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Structure-Activity Relationship
COVID-19/virology
*Triterpenes/chemistry/pharmacology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism

@article {pmid41599072,
year = {2026},
author = {Dave, RS and Fox, HS},
title = {Synergy of SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1 Infections in the Human Brain.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15010089},
pmid = {41599072},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/pathology/complications/epidemiology ; *HIV Infections/virology/pathology/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *HIV-1 ; *Brain/virology/pathology ; Microglia/virology/pathology ; Coinfection/virology ; Cytokines/metabolism ; },
abstract = {This review explores the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1 infections within the human brain, highlighting the significant neurological implications of these viral infections. SARS-CoV-2 can infect the central nervous system (CNS), with evidence of the virus detected in various brain regions, including the hypothalamus, cerebellum, and olfactory bulb. This infection is linked to microglial activation and neuroinflammation, which can lead to severe neurological outcomes in affected individuals. Autopsy studies revealed microglial changes, including downregulation of the P2RY12 receptor, indicating a shift from homeostatic to inflammatory phenotype. Similar changes in microglia are found in the brains of people with HIV-1 (PWH). In SARS-CoV-2, the correlation between inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-6, and MCP-1, found in cerebrospinal fluid and brain tissues, indicates significant neurovascular inflammation. Astrogliosis and microglial nodules were observed, further emphasizing the inflammatory response triggered by the viral infections, again in parallel to those found in the brains of PWH. Epidemiologic data indicate that although SARS-CoV-2 infection rates in PWH mirror those in People without HIV (PWoH) populations, Long-COVID prevalence is markedly higher among PWH. Evidence of overlapping cognitive impairment, mental health burden, and persistent neuroinflammation highlights diagnostic complexity and therapeutic gaps. Despite plausible mechanistic synergy, direct neuropathological confirmation remains scarce, warranting longitudinal, biomarker-driven studies. Understanding these interactions is critical for developing targeted interventions to mitigate CNS injury and improve outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/virology/pathology/complications/epidemiology
*HIV Infections/virology/pathology/complications
*SARS-CoV-2
*HIV-1
*Brain/virology/pathology
Microglia/virology/pathology
Coinfection/virology
Cytokines/metabolism

@article {pmid41599045,
year = {2026},
author = {Abdul Jabar, K and Romli, NIA and Vellasamy, KM and Pallath, V and Al-Maleki, AR},
title = {Predictors of Mortality in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bloodstream Infections: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15010061},
pmid = {41599045},
issn = {2076-0817},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects ; *Pseudomonas Infections/mortality/microbiology/drug therapy ; Risk Factors ; *Bacteremia/mortality/microbiology ; COVID-19/mortality ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; },
abstract = {Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections (PABSIs) are a major clinical challenge due to their association with significant mortality and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. The COVID-19 pandemic changed antimicrobial practices, intensive care management, and patient risk profiles, potentially influencing the epidemiology and outcomes of PABSIs. In the post-pandemic period, practices were expected to revert to normal. The objective of this scoping review was to identify and summarize reported mortality rates and risk factors for PABSIs in studies published between 2023 and 2025. Literature searches were conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus. Screening was performed in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Twenty-two eligible studies were included. Mortality rates varied across the study setting and populations; however, several consistent predictors were consistently identified, including carbapenem exposure, multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, hematologic disease or malignancy, corticosteroid therapy, sepsis or septic shock, mechanical ventilation, and higher severity-of-illness scores. Few studies have linked molecular mechanisms to patient outcomes, highlighting important gaps in knowledge. Notably, only a small number of studies included the post-pandemic period but did not analyze the data separately. Despite limited available evidence, critically ill and immunocompromised patients remain at greatest risk of death from PABSIs. This review highlights the need for a broader comparative analysis in future.},
}

Humans
*Pseudomonas aeruginosa/drug effects
*Pseudomonas Infections/mortality/microbiology/drug therapy
Risk Factors
*Bacteremia/mortality/microbiology
COVID-19/mortality
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial

@article {pmid41599016,
year = {2025},
author = {Gonepudi, NK and Baffour Awuah, H and Xu, W and Katte, RH and Lu, M},
title = {Structure-Guided Design of Peptide Inhibitors Targeting Class I Viral Fusion Proteins.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15010032},
pmid = {41599016},
issn = {2076-0817},
support = {R01AI181600//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; R35GM151169/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Viral Fusion Proteins/chemistry/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; *Drug Design ; *Peptides/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Viral Fusion Protein Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry ; Virus Internalization/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Viral fusion proteins are indispensable mediators of viral entry that orchestrate the fusion of viral and host membranes, making them primary targets for antiviral interventions. Class I fusion proteins, displayed on the surface of enveloped viruses (such as HIV-1, RSV, SARS-CoV-2, Nipah, influenza, and Ebola viruses), share conserved structural features, including the fusion peptide or loop and heptad repeat regions. These elements are essential for the formation of the post-fusion six-helix bundle during membrane fusion. Peptide inhibitors that mimic heptad repeat motifs have consequently emerged as an effective strategy for blocking the fusion process. This review summarizes design strategies for such inhibitors and highlights how sequence and structural insights have enabled their optimization via α-helical stabilization, hydrocarbon stapling, lactam bridges, lipid conjugation, macrocyclization, and multivalency. Using representative examples across major viral systems, this review illustrates how these strategies have led to the development of potent, stable, and even broad-spectrum antiviral peptides. This review provides insights to guide the rational design of next-generation peptide-based fusion inhibitors targeting viral membrane fusion.},
}

Humans
*Viral Fusion Proteins/chemistry/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
*Drug Design
*Peptides/chemistry/pharmacology
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Viral Fusion Protein Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry
Virus Internalization/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid41598742,
year = {2026},
author = {Vink, M and Vink-Niese, A},
title = {An Overview of Severe Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15020805},
pmid = {41598742},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {In this article, we have reviewed the literature on severe myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). ME/CFS is a clinical diagnosis in the absence of a diagnostic test. However, in research settings and disability disputes, 2-day cardiopulmonary exercise testing can be used to diagnose and document the abnormal response to exercise. Biomedical research into this disease has been scarce and underfunded for decades. Consequently, there are no effective treatments. In its most severe form, it is more disabling than many other diseases, and patients are bedbound 24/7, dependent on carers, and spend their days in dark and quiet rooms. Even the soft sound of a human voice can lead to further deterioration. Some of the very severely ill suffer from life-threatening malnutrition and need to be tube-fed. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a sharp increase in the number of patients with post-infectious diseases, and many of them fulfill ME/CFS criteria. Dedicated, focused research using advanced medical technologies is needed to gain further understanding of the underlying disease mechanism. This will enable us to find effective pharmacological treatments and address the unmet medical needs of these very ill people.},
}

@article {pmid41598392,
year = {2026},
author = {Vaira, LA and Micheluzzi, V and Lechien, JR and Maniaci, A and Maglitto, F and Cammaroto, G and Troise, S and Chiesa-Estomba, CM and Consorti, G and Cirignaco, G and Saibene, AM and Iannella, G and Navarro-Cuéllar, C and Soro, GM and Salzano, G and Casu, G and De Riu, G},
title = {Telemedicine in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Narrative Review of Clinical Applications, Outcomes and Future Directions.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15020452},
pmid = {41598392},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {00000038//Ministero dell'università e della ricerca/ ; },
abstract = {Objectives: Telemedicine has rapidly expanded in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS), especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, but its specific roles and limitations across the care pathway remain unclear. This narrative review aimed to map telemedicine modalities and indications in OMFS, summarize reported outcomes, and identify priorities for future research. Methods: A narrative synthesis was undertaken after a systematic search of medical and engineering databases to 10 October 2025. Studies applying telemedicine, telehealth, telepresence or teleradiology to OMFS practice were eligible, including trials, observational cohorts, technical reports and surveys. Data were extracted in duplicate and organized thematically; heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis. Results: Fifty studies met the inclusion criteria. Telemedicine was mainly used for preoperative consultation and triage, postoperative follow-up, trauma teleradiology and tele-expertise, oncologic and oral medicine follow-up, temporomandibular disorders, and education or humanitarian work. In low-risk outpatient and postoperative settings, remote consultations showed high concordance with in-person plans, similar complication or reattendance rates, reduced travel, and high satisfaction. In trauma networks, telemedicine supported timely triage and reduced unnecessary inter-hospital transfers. Evidence in oral oncology and complex mucosal disease was more cautious, favouring hybrid models and escalation to face-to-face assessment. Data on cost-effectiveness and impacts on equity were limited. Conclusions: Telemedicine in OMFS has moved from niche innovation to a pragmatic adjunct across the clinical pathway. Current evidence supports its use for selected pre- and postoperative care and trauma triage within risk-stratified hybrid models, while underscoring the need for stronger comparative and implementation studies, clear governance on equity and data protection, and alignment with wider digital and AI-enabled health systems.},
}

@article {pmid41598316,
year = {2026},
author = {Vieru, AM and Radulescu, D and Streba, L and Trasca, ET and Cazacu, SM and Statie, RC and Popa, P and Ciurea, T},
title = {Learning from an Emerging Infection: How the COVID-19 Pandemic Reshaped Gastric Cancer Care.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life16010161},
pmid = {41598316},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted gastric cancer care, reducing access to screening, delaying diagnosis, and altering therapeutic pathways worldwide. Beyond clinical challenges, it exposed structural weaknesses in healthcare systems but also accelerated innovation. Methods: We conducted a narrative review supported by a structured literature search (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science; 1 January 2014-30 November 2025), with a narrative synthesis of observational studies, registry analyses, and meta-analyses addressing COVID-19-related changes in gastric cancer epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, vaccination, and telemedicine. A PRISMA-style flow diagram was used to illustrate study selection. Results: Elective endoscopy volumes fell by up to 80%, leading to diagnostic backlogs and increased proportions of advanced-stage gastric cancer. Surgical postponements, modified chemotherapy and radiotherapy schedules, and reduced molecular/genetic testing further compromised outcomes. Conversely, vaccination, telemedicine, capsule endoscopy, and adaptive triage frameworks enabled partial recovery of services. Geographical variations were observed in the recovery of gastric cancer care services, with regions that had established screening infrastructure generally resuming activity more rapidly, whereas others experienced ongoing delays and diagnostic backlogs. Conclusions: This review integrates epidemiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic evidence to demonstrate how COVID-19 redefined gastric cancer care. By highlighting regional disparities and outlining a conceptual model for oncologic resilience, it provides an innovative framework for future crisis preparedness. The lessons of the pandemic-digital health integration, flexible treatment protocols, and international collaboration-represent a foundation for more robust, equitable gastric cancer management in the post-pandemic era.},
}

@article {pmid41598213,
year = {2025},
author = {Park, JY and Lee, HM},
title = {PEDV Structural Proteins with Emphasis on M Protein as an Immunomodulatory Factor in Porcine Innate Immunity.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/life16010058},
pmid = {41598213},
issn = {2075-1729},
support = {RS-2025-25400025//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; },
abstract = {Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is an enteric alphacoronavirus that causes severe diarrhea and high mortality in neonatal pigs, leading to substantial economic loss in the porcine industry. Previous studies have primarily focused on the spike protein because of its role in viral entry and induction of neutralizing antibody responses. However, accumulating evidence indicates that other viral components also contribute to host immune modulation and pathogenesis. This review summarizes the current knowledge on PEDV structural proteins, with an emphasis on membrane proteins as regulators of porcine innate immune responses. The molecular characteristics and intracellular localization of membrane proteins were described, and the reported effects on interferon signaling, inflammatory pathways, and cellular stress responses were examined. Findings from related coronaviruses were incorporated to highlight the conserved features and virus-specific differences in membrane protein-mediated host modulation. Available evidence suggests that membrane protein-associated interference with innate immune signaling may contribute to intestinal immune dysregulation and disease severity in neonatal piglets. The implications of these observations on PEDV pathogenesis and intervention strategies are also discussed. By shifting attention from spike-centered frameworks to structural protein-driven host interactions, this review highlights membrane proteins as an underexplored but biologically relevant factor in porcine coronavirus research.},
}

@article {pmid41597712,
year = {2026},
author = {Mour, G and Paudel, SD and Modi, P and Goswami, U and Shubeilat, J and Ptak, L and Parajuli, S},
title = {The Role of Vaccination in Adult Solid Organ Transplantation: Updated Reviews with Recent Guidelines.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14010194},
pmid = {41597712},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Vaccination remains a cornerstone of infection prevention in adult solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, a population at heightened risk for vaccine-preventable diseases due to chronic immunosuppression and comorbidities. Updated guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation Infectious Diseases Community of Practice (AST IDCOP) and other international bodies emphasize the need for timely and comprehensive vaccination strategies before and after transplantation. This review synthesizes current literature and practice guidelines on vaccination in adult solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients. Published peer-reviewed studies, clinical trials, and consensus guidelines were evaluated, with emphasis on vaccination timing, safety, immunogenicity, dosing strategies, and serologic response monitoring in the SOT population. Comprehensive vaccination planning before transplantation, combined with appropriate post-transplant booster strategies, remains vital to improving long-term outcomes in SOT recipients. This review provides clinicians with an updated, evidence-based framework for integrating evolving vaccination guidelines into the care of adult transplant patients.},
}

@article {pmid41597670,
year = {2026},
author = {Soyfoo, M and Sarrand, J},
title = {Plasmablast Storms: Microbial Drivers of Acute and Chronic Autoimmune Flares.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14010152},
pmid = {41597670},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Autoimmune flares are often accompanied by abrupt surges of circulating plasmablasts-short-lived, high-output antibody-secreting cells generated through extrafollicular B-cell activation in response to microbial cues. Three categories of microbial input appear to repeatedly trigger these "plasmablast storms": latent herpesvirus reactivations (Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, human herpesvirus-6, varicella-zoster virus), acute respiratory or gastrointestinal infections including SARS-CoV-2, and chronic oral or gut dysbiosis. Although biologically distinct, these stimuli converge on innate sensing pathways driven by pathogen-associated molecular patterns such as unmethylated CpG DNA, single-stranded RNA, lipopolysaccharide, and bacterial lipoglycans. Through Toll-like receptors and type I interferon signalling, microbial signatures accelerate class switching, amplify inflammatory cytokine milieus, and lower B-cell activation thresholds, enabling rapid plasmablast mobilisation. Dysbiosis further maintains B cells in a hyper-responsive state by disrupting mucosal homeostasis and altering microbial metabolite profiles, thereby reducing the stimulus required to trigger plasmablast bursts. Once generated, these waves of oligoclonal plasmablasts home to inflamed tissues, where chemokine and adhesion landscapes shape their retention during flares. Emerging evidence suggests that such episodic plasmablast expansions promote autoantibody diversification, somatic hypermutation, and epitope spreading, progressively eroding tolerance. This review synthesizes these insights into a unified model in which infections and dysbiosis promote microbe-licensed plasmablast storms that influence the tempo and severity of autoimmune disease.},
}

@article {pmid41597563,
year = {2025},
author = {Usserbayev, B and Zhugunissov, K and Smekenov, I and Akmyrzayev, N and Abdykalyk, A and Abeuov, K and Zhumadil, B and Melisbek, A and Shirinbekov, M and Zhaksylyk, S and Nagymzhanova, Z and Seidakhmetova, A and Beltramo, C and Peletto, S and Kerimbaev, A and Nurabaev, S and Chervyakova, O and Kozhabergenov, N},
title = {Alpha- and Beta-Coronaviruses in Humans and Animals: Taxonomy, Reservoirs, Hosts, and Interspecies Transmission.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14010043},
pmid = {41597563},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {IRN BR24992948//Development of new diagnostic test systems for particularly dangerous viral infections (2024-2026) (IRN BR24992948) with the support of the Science Committee of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan./ ; },
abstract = {The Coronaviridae family represents a broad group of RNA-containing viruses that infect humans and animals. This family belongs to the order Nidovirales and is divided into four main genera: α-CoV, β-CoV, γ-CoV and δ-CoV. It is particularly noteworthy that representatives of β-CoV have caused serious epidemics in humans, such as the outbreaks of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2. Although the clinical manifestations of CoVs can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory diseases, they share common features in their structure, modes of transmission, and natural reservoirs. Identifying natural reservoirs, as well as establishing intermediate hosts, is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of interspecies transmission of CoVs. These processes are often mediated by molecular interactions between viral spike (S) proteins and cellular receptors of different species, which contribute to zoonotic outbreaks. Thus, the interaction of various species and the study of these processes of viral spread, cross-species transmission, and pathogen evolution play a key role in ensuring global biological safety. Therefore, we conducted this review to summarize the data from existing studies focused on the taxonomy of CoVs, their main types, natural reservoirs, intermediate hosts, pathways of interspecies transmission, and the significance of the One Health concept as an interdisciplinary approach to monitoring, prevention and control of CoV infections at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health. We examined databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify relevant scientific articles in English available for such a review. The aim of this work is to study the taxonomy and classification of coronaviruses, as well as to identify their natural reservoirs, intermediate hosts, and applicable control measures. A review of human and animal coronaviruses has revealed their evolutionary diversity, their main natural reservoirs, their intermediate hosts, and their interactions with cellular receptors. This information allows for a better understanding of the mechanisms by which the viruses are transmitted from animals to humans. The concept of One Health demonstrated the interconnections between human, animal and environmental factors.},
}

@article {pmid41597308,
year = {2025},
author = {Carbone, RG and Nagoti, S and Monselise, A and Wille, KM and Puppo, F and Shah, PL},
title = {COVID-19 and Interstitial Lung Disease.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {62},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medicina62010022},
pmid = {41597308},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Lung Diseases, Interstitial/etiology/therapy/diagnosis/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Risk Factors ; Lung/pathology/diagnostic imaging ; },
abstract = {Background and Objectives: COVID-19 is an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that may develop several complications. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the major long-term complication of COVID-19 disease leading to progressive lung fibrosis and reduced respiratory function. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an updated overview of post-COVID-19 ILD by examining research publications and clinical guidelines selected from PubMed, Web of Science, and major respiratory medicine journals from 2020 to 2025. Methods: ILDs are diagnosed by medical history, physiological examination, pulmonary function tests, and chest X-ray or high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan. Lung biopsy, especially cryobiopsy or video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) biopsy, can be performed to define histological patterns and confirm the diagnosis. Results: Post-COVID-19 ILD is a chronic condition characterized by long-term respiratory symptoms, radiological findings, and reduced lung function. Fibrotic injury is a consequence of the initial infection and could be influenced by persistent inflammation and dysregulated tissue repair. Risk factors include severe acute illness, advanced age, male sex, and smoking. Clinical course and prognosis of post-COVID-19 ILD is uncertain, as most patients experience gradual improvement or stability, whereas others develop progressive lung function decline. Treatment of post-COVID-19 ILD is not presently defined by guidelines but comprises corticosteroids, antifibrotics (including new drugs such as nerandomilast), supportive oxygen, pulmonary physiotherapy rehabilitation, smoking cessation, and vaccination. Conclusions: ILD represents a significant long-term complication of COVID-19 infection. Further investigations are required to better understand its pathophysiology and clinical management. As research progresses, more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are expected to emerge.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Lung Diseases, Interstitial/etiology/therapy/diagnosis/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Risk Factors
Lung/pathology/diagnostic imaging

@article {pmid41597249,
year = {2026},
author = {Stigliano, E and Tocci, A and Florio, R and Arena, V and Amadoro, G},
title = {Olfactory Dysfunction and Cognitive Deterioration in Long COVID: Pathomechanisms and Clinical Implications in Development of Alzheimer's Disease.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cells15020176},
pmid = {41597249},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {RF-2021-12374//Italian Ministry of Health/ ; 971925//Alzheimer's Association Research Grant/ ; FOE D.M865/2019//Fondo Ordinario Enti/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/pathology ; *Alzheimer Disease/etiology/pathology ; *Olfaction Disorders/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology ; Anosmia ; },
abstract = {Complete or partial loss of smell (anosmia), sometimes in association with distorted olfactory perceptions (parosmia), is a common neurological symptom affecting nearly 60% of patients suffering from post-acute neurological sequelae of COronaVIrus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) syndrome, called long COVID. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may gain access from the nasal cavity to the brain (neurotropism), and the olfactory route has been proposed as a peripheral site of virus entry. COVID-19 is a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's Disease (AD), an age-dependent and progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized in affected patients by early olfaction dysfunction that precedes signs of cognitive decline associated with neurodegeneration in vulnerable brain regions of their limbic system. Here, we summarize the recent literature data supporting the causal correlation between the persistent olfactory deterioration following SARS-CoV-2 infection and the long-delayed manifestation of AD-like memory impairment. SARS-CoV-2 infection of the olfactory neuroepithelium is likely to trigger a pattern of detrimental events that, directly and/or indirectly, affect the anatomically interconnected hippocampal and cortical areas, thus resulting in tardive clinical dementia. We also delineate future advancement on pharmacological and rehabilitative treatments to improve the olfactory dysfunction in patients recovering even from the acute/mild phase of COVID-19. Collectively, the present review aims at highlighting the physiopathological nexus between COVID-19 anosmia and post-pandemic mental health to favor the development of best-targeted and more effective therapeutic strategies in the fight against the long-term neurological complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/pathology
*Alzheimer Disease/etiology/pathology
*Olfaction Disorders/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology
Anosmia

@article {pmid41597174,
year = {2026},
author = {Sisk, CK and Turner, LM and Meraj, S and Yusuf, N},
title = {Advances in mRNA-Based Melanoma Vaccines: A Narrative Review of Lipid Nanoparticle and Dendritic Cell Delivery Platforms.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cells15020099},
pmid = {41597174},
issn = {2073-4409},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use ; *Dendritic Cells/immunology ; *Melanoma/immunology/therapy ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; *Lipids/chemistry ; Animals ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Melanoma remains one of the deadliest cutaneous malignancies worldwide, and despite advances in systemic therapy, recurrence and treatment resistance remain frequent challenges. Following the success of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, mRNA-based cancer vaccines targeting melanoma antigens have emerged as a promising therapeutic direction. This review summarizes current evidence on mRNA melanoma vaccines, focusing on two leading delivery platforms: lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and dendritic cell (DC) vaccines. A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus from 2015 to 2025 identified clinical trials, preclinical studies, and review articles evaluating mRNA vaccine constructs and delivery strategies. Completed clinical studies demonstrate that personalized LNP-formulated mRNA vaccines can enhance neoantigen-specific T-cell responses and improve recurrence-free survival, particularly when combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. DC-based mRNA vaccines also show potent immunogenicity, with stronger responses observed when DC maturation is optimized. Ongoing trials continue to investigate next-generation LNP formulations, DC priming strategies, and personalized neoantigen approaches. Overall, current evidence indicates that both LNP and DC platforms can augment antitumor immunity by broadening T-cell responses and enhancing checkpoint inhibition. Continued refinement of delivery vehicles, neoantigen selection, and scalable manufacturing processes will be essential to realizing the full clinical potential of mRNA vaccines in melanoma.},
}

Humans
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use
*Dendritic Cells/immunology
*Melanoma/immunology/therapy
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics
*Lipids/chemistry
Animals
Liposomes

@article {pmid41597107,
year = {2026},
author = {Álvarez-Fernández, ML and Rodríguez, C},
title = {Socio-Emotional Wellbeing in Parents of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/children13010099},
pmid = {41597107},
issn = {2227-9067},
support = {PID2021-1244011NB-I00//Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation 444 (MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033/FEDER, UE)/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) require contextual approaches emphasizing family roles. Parents of children with NDDs face a complex socio-emotional reality. They may experience high levels of stress, fatigue, depression, and feelings of guilt and uncertainty, and they are often left feeling isolated and unsupported. All of these factors increase their socio-emotional vulnerability and affect their children's wellbeing. A significant part of the available evidence has focused on parents of typically developing children or on a single construct. For these reasons, and considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the aim of this study was to review interventions targeting the improvement of the socio-emotional wellbeing of parents of children with NDDs, in order to characterise recent research, the specific constructs addressed, and the effectiveness of interventions. Methods: No prior protocol/registration. ERIC and Web of Science databases (selected for their broad multidisciplinary coverage in psychology and social sciences) were searched from 2020-2025 (last search: 7 September 2025), limited to English/Spanish publications. Inclusion criteria encompassed parents/primary family caregivers of children with NDDs receiving socio-emotional programs. Two independent reviewers screened the titles/abstracts and full texts, resolving disagreements through discussion. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this systematic review employed narrative synthesis without risk-of-bias assessment and included 16 studies (approximately, 1100 participants). Results: The analysis indicated a scarce but growing scientific output, with a complex methodological landscape showing promising preliminary convergence in intervention outcomes. Interventions effects appeared mediated by cultural suitability, accessibility, and contextual alignment. Conclusions: Future work should pursue multisystemic approaches engaging diverse societal contexts and agents to optimize child and family wellbeing.},
}

@article {pmid41597083,
year = {2026},
author = {Alhumaid, S and Alkhamees, AA and Al Dossary, N and Almuslim, AA and Majzoub, RA and Alalwan, QM and Alsaeed, MJ and Aljowaisem, FM and Alqahtani, MA and Alamer, AI and ALDuhailan, MI and Al Nasser, DA and Almuhanna, MS and Al-Kamees, MA and Alhadab, HA and Alsultan, AA and Bukhamseen, AN and Alabdullah, AA and Alhaddad, KS and Alhumaid, MA and Almusabeh, HM and Almubarak, YS and AlShayeb, RA and Alnami, DA and Alatiyyah, YY and Al Alawi, Z and Alabdulqader, M},
title = {Long-Term Kidney Outcomes After SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children Aged 0-12 Years: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Children (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/children13010075},
pmid = {41597083},
issn = {2227-9067},
abstract = {Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is increasingly recognised in children with acute COVID-19 and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), yet the long-term renal consequences in younger paediatric populations remain unclear. Most studies focus on acute illness or mixed-age cohorts, with limited data specific to children aged 0-12 years. Objectives: This study aimed to systematically identify, evaluate, and synthesise evidence on post-acute (≥30 days) and long-term (≥90 days) kidney outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection or MIS-C in children aged 0-12 years, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), eGFR decline, proteinuria, haematuria, hypertension, and need for kidney replacement therapy. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PubMed (December 2019-30 November 2025), following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and a registered PROSPERO protocol (CRD420251241949). Observational studies reporting kidney outcomes ≥30 days post-infection in children aged 0-12 years were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale or ROBINS-I. Owing to heterogeneity and absence of ≥3 comparable datasets, a narrative synthesis was performed. Results: Seven studies met inclusion criteria (five MIS-C cohorts, two acute COVID-19 cohorts). Only a subset provided extractable data specific to children aged 0-12 years. Follow-up ranged from 30 days to 12 months; four studies reported outcomes ≥ 180 days. Across all studies, no incident CKD, sustained eGFR decline, or kidney replacement therapy were reported among children completing long-term follow-up; however, most long-term outcome data were derived from MIS-C cohorts with median ages around 8-11 years that included some adolescents, rather than exclusively children aged 0-12 years. One MIS-C study reported long-term hypertension in 14% of children. A cross-sectional Italian cohort of mild COVID-19 demonstrated hyperfiltration, proteinuria, and microhaematuria at ~3 months, though chronicity could not be assessed due to absence of baseline values. A large US EHR-based cohort identified increased CKD risk after COVID-19 in the broader < 21-year population; however, 0-12-year-specific event counts were not reported, preventing quantitative synthesis for young children. Conclusions: Evidence on long-term kidney outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection in children aged 0-12 years remains limited, and only a small subset of studies provided extractable, age-specific data. On the other hand, MIS-C cohorts generally show favourable renal recovery, small sample sizes, lack of control groups, and short follow-up restrict confidence in these findings. Large paediatric EHR studies suggest potential long-term renal risk in broader paediatric populations, highlighting the need for age-stratified, prospective cohorts with serial eGFR, urine studies, and blood pressure assessments. Until definitive evidence emerges, structured renal follow-up may be warranted for children with AKI or MIS-C during COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid41596805,
year = {2026},
author = {Głuchowski, A and Czarniecka-Skubina, E and Pielak, M},
title = {Effect of the Sous-Vide Method on the Quality of Vegetables-A Review.},
journal = {Foods (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/foods15020206},
pmid = {41596805},
issn = {2304-8158},
abstract = {Modern gastronomy strives to combine high-quality food with the preservation of nutritional value, microbiological safety, and the sustainable use of raw materials. With the development of culinary technologies, precise heat treatment methods are gaining increasing importance, enabling better process control and more consistent quality results. This analysis aims to present the effects of the sous-vide (SV) method on the quality of vegetables in comparison with conventional heat treatment methods, such as boiling in water, steaming, cooking under increased pressure, cooking in a microwave oven, baking, grilling, and the cook-vide method. Analysis of the scientific literature has shown that the sous-vide method usually allows for the retention of greater amounts of vitamins (especially vitamin C), phenolic compounds and minerals, resulting in products with higher nutritional value and bioavailability of bioactive ingredients. Maintaining a controlled, low temperature in a vacuum environment reduces the loss of water and volatile components, which has a positive impact on the process yield as well as the color, texture, and aroma of vegetables. SV processing enhances product digestibility, preserves natural appearance, and improves food safety. Due to its hermetic packaging and limited oxygen access, this method ensures good microbiological quality and extends product shelf life. In the food service industry, SV allows for repeatable results, high sensory and technological quality, and reduced food waste. In the context of contemporary nutritional challenges and the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic, sous-vide technology is gaining importance as a method supporting food safety, sustainability, and efficient resource management in the food service industry.},
}

@article {pmid41596677,
year = {2026},
author = {Smith, E and Scholey, J},
title = {The Renin Angiotensin System: Insights into the Role of ACE2 in Glomerular Injury Including SARS-CoV-2 Infection.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27021033},
pmid = {41596677},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Humans ; *Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology ; *COVID-19/metabolism/virology/pathology ; *Kidney Glomerulus/pathology/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The circulating renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a key role in regulating blood volume and electrolyte levels. While important for the maintenance of intravascular volume systemically, the local activation of tissue RAAS and the generation of angiotensin II contribute to inflammation and fibrosis. In the kidney, angiotensin II plays a key role in the development and progression of glomerular injury. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), an enzyme that degrades angiotensin II, is expressed in the glomerulus, focusing attention not only on the complexity of the RAAS but also identifying a potential new determinant of glomerular injury. Accordingly, we performed a narrative review using the search terms ACE2 and glomerulus in PubMed and Google Scholar to summarize the current understanding of the role of ACE2 in glomerular injury. We also discuss the role of ACE2 as a cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2 and the potential impact of this function on glomerular injury in the setting of COVID-19.},
}

*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Humans
*Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology
*COVID-19/metabolism/virology/pathology
*Kidney Glomerulus/pathology/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2
Animals

@article {pmid41596670,
year = {2026},
author = {Smola-Dmochowska, A and Śmigiel-Gac, N and Jelonek, K and Lewicka-Brzoza, K and Bojdol, J and Dobrzyński, P},
title = {Antithrombotic Polymers: A Narrative Review on Current and Future Strategies for Their Design, Synthesis, and Application.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27021026},
pmid = {41596670},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Polymers/chemistry/chemical synthesis/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Fibrinolytic Agents/chemistry/therapeutic use/chemical synthesis/pharmacology ; *Thrombosis/drug therapy/prevention & control ; Animals ; COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Design ; },
abstract = {Bleeding and thromboembolism are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Thrombosis encompasses both arterial forms-primarily associated with atherosclerosis and leading to heart attacks or strokes-and venous forms. Microvascular thrombosis typically arises in the context of sepsis or systemic inflammation, and it became particularly prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic, substantially contributing to increased mortality. Given this burden, the rapid development of new therapies using advanced techniques and materials to prevent and treat these conditions is essential. This review summarizes recent advances in the design of antithrombotic polymers, discussing mechanisms of action, surface-modification strategies, and current clinical and preclinical applications. It also outlines criteria for evaluating hemocompatibility, describes in vitro and in vivo testing methods, and highlights key barriers to translating these materials into clinical practice. The review concludes by identifying promising directions for future research, including multifunctional approaches that combine antifouling properties, controlled drug release, and bioresistance strategies with the greatest potential to reduce thromboembolic complications associated with medical materials. It further evaluates the progress made to date in combating thrombotic diseases and identifies remaining gaps in the development and clinical implementation of new antithrombotic materials.},
}

Humans
*Polymers/chemistry/chemical synthesis/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Fibrinolytic Agents/chemistry/therapeutic use/chemical synthesis/pharmacology
*Thrombosis/drug therapy/prevention & control
Animals
COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Design

@article {pmid41596537,
year = {2026},
author = {Muntean, ST and Cozac-Szoke, AR and Tinca, AC and Kosovski, IB and Vultur, S and Vultur, M and Cotoi, OS and Sin, AI},
title = {Molecular Aspects of Viral Pathogenesis in Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Evolving Mechanisms of Infection and Host Response.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27020891},
pmid = {41596537},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity/genetics/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19/virology/immunology/pathology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/chemistry/metabolism ; Mutation ; Neuropilin-1/metabolism/genetics ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Virus Internalization ; Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Although the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic no longer poses a global emergency, the virus continues to diversify and acquire immunoevasive properties. Understanding the molecular pathways that shape SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis has become essential. In this paper, we summarize the most recent current evidence on how the spike protein structurally evolves, on changes in key non-structural proteins, such as nsp14, and on host factors, such as TMPRSS2 and neuropilin-1. These changes, together, shape viral entry, replication fidelity and interferon antagonism. Given the emerging Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2, recent articles in the literature, cryo-EM analyses, and artificial intelligence-assisted mutational modeling were analyzed to infer and contextualize mutation-driven mechanisms. It is through these changes that the virus adapts and evolves, such as optimizing angiotensin-converting enzyme binding, modifying antigenic surfaces, and accumulating mutations that affect CD8[+] T-cell recognition. Multi-omics data studies further support SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis through convergent evidence linking viral adaptation to host immune and metabolic reprogramming, as occurs in myocarditis, liver injury, and acute kidney injury. By integrating proteomic, transcriptomic, and structural findings, this work presents how the virus persists and dictates disease severity through interferon antagonism (ORF6, ORF9b, and nsp1), adaptive immune evasion, and metabolic rewiring. All these insights underscore the need for next-generation interventions that provide a multidimensional framework for understanding the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and guiding future antiviral strategies.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity/genetics/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19/virology/immunology/pathology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/genetics/chemistry/metabolism
Mutation
Neuropilin-1/metabolism/genetics
Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
Virus Internalization
Viral Nonstructural Proteins/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid41596316,
year = {2026},
author = {Hayashi, H and Kubo, Y and Tanaka, Y},
title = {Host Responses to SARS-CoV-2 with an Emphasis on Cytokines.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27020664},
pmid = {41596316},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *Cytokines/immunology/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; Interferons/immunology ; Virus Replication ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected societies around the world. Although the emergency phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has ended, the threat it poses remains persistent. This review aims to clarify the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection to support effective management of the disease. A central focus is the host cellular response to the viral infection, with particular emphasis on the role of cytokines. Cytokines play a dual role in antiviral defense: they contribute to the inhibition of viral replication and facilitate the clearance of pathogens, yet dysregulated cytokine responses can result in severe immunopathology. Interferons (type I, type II, and type III) and other cytokines are pivotal in activating intracellular antiviral mechanisms and in orchestrating the recruitment of immune cells through extracellular signaling. Effective immune responses to viral infections are governed not only by primary immune cells-such as dendritic cells, T lymphocytes, and B lymphocytes-but also by the local cytokine milieu shaped by infected and neighboring cells. Given the presence of endogenous inhibitors and autoantibodies in vivo, it is essential to evaluate the functional activity of cytokines in clinical samples. We propose a novel approach to quantify biologically active cytokine levels.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*Cytokines/immunology/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
Interferons/immunology
Virus Replication

@article {pmid41596124,
year = {2026},
author = {Ayyubova, G and Bablu, FE and Rahimli, N and Aghayeva, L and Springer, EM and Alghenaim, FA and Suzuki, YJ},
title = {Roles of Reactive Oxygen Species in Relationships Between Viral Infections and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox15010066},
pmid = {41596124},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {Emerging evidence suggests that viral infections may contribute to the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other forms of dementia. Understanding the mechanism of viral involvement in the pathogenesis of AD and related dementia (ADRD) could contribute to reducing the burden caused by these conditions, which affect a large portion of the aging population. Some studies indicate the link between AD and viral infections, notably coronaviruses and herpesviruses. In AD, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) results in the modifications of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, contributing to synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairments. Experimental evidence suggests that viral infections linked to ADRD induce the cellular production of ROS, possibly contributing to the pathogenesis of these conditions. Despite significant advances in defining the roles of ROS in neurological disorders and viral infections, the specific roles of ROS in virus-associated ADRD have not been thoroughly investigated. The main objective of this review article is to comprehensively provide information on the experimental evidence for the production of ROS by viruses to help the readers investigate the role of ROS in the relationship between viral infections with ADRD.},
}

@article {pmid41596113,
year = {2025},
author = {Țocu, G and Ștefănescu, BI and Stavăr Matei, L and Țocu, L},
title = {Phagocyte NADPH Oxidase NOX2-Derived Reactive Oxygen Species in Antimicrobial Defense: Mechanisms, Regulation, and Therapeutic Potential-A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antiox15010055},
pmid = {41596113},
issn = {2076-3921},
abstract = {ROS derived from NADPH oxidase, particularly NOX2, are central to antimicrobial defense, coupling direct pathogen killing with redox signaling that shapes inflammation. This narrative review integrates recent advances on NOX2 structure, assembly, and spatiotemporal control in phagocytes, and outlines how ROS interact with NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2 networks to coordinate microbicidal activity and immune modulation. We summarize evidence that both ROS deficiency, as in chronic granulomatous disease, and uncontrolled excess, as in sepsis and severe COVID-19, drive clinically significant pathology, emphasizing the need for precise redox balance. Emerging therapeutic strategies include selective NOX2 inhibitors that limit pathological oxidative bursts, redox-modulating peptides that disrupt upstream activation cues, and Nrf2 activators that enhance endogenous antioxidant capacity, with attention to dosing challenges that preserve host defense while mitigating tissue injury. Key gaps remain in biomarker standardization, real-time in vivo ROS monitoring, and translation from animal models to patients, motivating personalized, combination approaches to redox medicine in infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41595987,
year = {2025},
author = {Morelli, S and Giansanti, D},
title = {Recent Advances in AI-Driven Mobile Health Enhancing Healthcare-Narrative Insights into Latest Progress.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bioengineering13010054},
pmid = {41595987},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into mobile health (mHealth) applications has been accelerated by the widespread adoption of smartphones and recent technological advances, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience has expanded the role of AI-powered apps in real-time health monitoring, early detection, and personalized treatment pathways.

AIM: This review aims to summarize recent evidence on the use of AI in healthcare-related mobile applications, with a focus on clinical trends, practical implications, and future directions.

METHODS: Studies were prioritized based on methodological rigor, with systematic reviews forming the core of the analysis. Additional literature was considered to capture emerging trends and applications where a relevant rigorous screening and scoring procedure was applied to ensure methodological quality and relevance. Only studies addressing healthcare applications, rather than computational or computer science frameworks, were included to reflect the journal's clinical scope.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Fifty-six secondary studies were analyzed in detail. Thematic synthesis revealed a post-pandemic shift toward applications targeting mental health, chronic care management, and preventive services. Additional screening showed that, despite their increasing use in clinical contexts, few AI-based apps were formally classified as medical devices. This highlights a gap between technological innovation and regulatory oversight. Ethical concerns-including algorithm transparency, clinical responsibility, and data protection-were frequently reported across studies.

CONCLUSIONS: This review underscores the growing impact of AI in mobile health, while drawing attention to unresolved challenges related to regulation, safety, and clinical accountability. A more robust integration into health systems will require clearer governance frameworks, validation standards, and interdisciplinary dialogue between developers, clinicians, and regulators.},
}

@article {pmid41595814,
year = {2025},
author = {Lim, L and Mukasheva, A and Alegbe, AO and Emehel, AN and Aubakirova, B and Semenova, Y},
title = {Public Health Communication Challenges in Eastern Europe and Central Asia: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijerph23010019},
pmid = {41595814},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {Humans ; *Public Health ; Asia, Central ; Europe, Eastern ; *Health Communication ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Communication ; },
abstract = {This scoping review examines public health communication across nine Eastern European and Central Asian states-Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan-highlighting how these systems have transitioned from Soviet-era legacies to contemporary practices. Eligibility criteria included the English- and Russian-language literature published from 1998 onwards, focusing on nine post-Soviet states. Sources of evidence comprised searches in Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, SSRN, Heliyon, MEDLINE/PubMed, and official government websites. Data were charted by three independent reviewers using a standardized form, with discrepancies resolved by senior reviewers. The review identifies persistent gaps in communication during health crises, with a particular focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, where centralized and hierarchical information flows often undermine transparency and responsiveness, as well as further increased health inequalities between rural and urban health outcomes. Despite ongoing reforms, the communication dimension of healthcare systems remains underdeveloped. Findings reveal that centralized and top-down communication remains a dominant feature across the region, hindering timely dissemination of information and limiting the capacity to counter misinformation, as both misinformation and disinformation sometimes emerge from the government. Ultimately, this review contributes a critical analysis of these systematic communication failures and underscores the need to strengthen public health communication and reduce health inequalities. To do it, governments must prioritize transparency, disclose decision-making processes, and rely on evidence-based messaging to build trust. Effective crisis response requires not only government leadership but also the active engagement of the medical and patient communities, supported by civil society and independent media. This review points out the need for more inclusive, transparent, and trust-oriented communication strategies to enhance public health preparedness and resilience in nine Eastern European and Central Asian contexts.},
}

Humans
*Public Health
Asia, Central
Europe, Eastern
*Health Communication
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Communication

@article {pmid41594835,
year = {2026},
author = {Kostev, K and Konrad, M and Bohlken, J},
title = {Real-World Evidence for Psychiatric Disorders from the German Disease Analyzer Database: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Brain sciences},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/brainsci16010115},
pmid = {41594835},
issn = {2076-3425},
abstract = {The German IQVIA Disease Analyzer (DA) database has become an increasingly important source of real-world evidence for psychiatric research. Over the past decade, and particularly since 2020, DA-based studies have addressed a broad spectrum of psychiatric outcomes including depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, dementia, sleep disorders, and the mental health consequences of chronic somatic diseases and of contracting COVID-19. Using large, representative outpatient cohorts, these studies have examined factors associated with the incidence of psychiatric disorders, patterns of psychiatric and somatic comorbidity, treatment trajectories, and long-term outcomes under routine care conditions. The DA database's longitudinal structure, nationwide coverage, and inclusion of multiple medical specialties enable it to capture psychiatric disorders throughout patient lifetimes and across different clinical contexts. This narrative review summarizes psychiatric research using the DA database that has been published since 2020, focusing on study design, main findings, methodological strengths and limitations, and implications for future psychiatric epidemiology and clinical research.},
}

@article {pmid41594661,
year = {2026},
author = {Förster, CY and Shityakov, S},
title = {A Possible Role for the Vagus Nerve in Physical and Mental Health.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom16010121},
pmid = {41594661},
issn = {2218-273X},
support = {Fo-315/5-1//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Vagus Nerve/physiology/physiopathology ; *Vagus Nerve Stimulation/methods ; *Mental Health ; COVID-19/therapy ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Depression/therapy ; },
abstract = {For decades, researchers have explored the therapeutic potential of the vagus nerve through vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). Initially developed for epilepsy, VNS has since been applied to treat resistant depression, stroke recovery, and inflammatory conditions. Transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) now offers a noninvasive alternative, fueling clinical trials in disorders ranging from rheumatoid arthritis and migraines to long COVID-19. Mechanistic studies suggest that afferent and efferent vagal fibers modulate immune responses, mood regulation, and neurotransmitter systems. The SPARC initiative has accelerated mapping of vagal circuits, enabling more precise approaches to stimulation. Despite progress, the results remain mixed: while some patients experience lasting symptom relief, others respond no better than to placebo. Depression studies, in particular, highlight both the promise and the complexity of VNS, as inflammation, motivation circuits, and gut-brain signaling emerge as key modulators. Next-generation closed-loop devices and circuit-specific targeting may improve efficacy and reduce adverse effects. VNS research thus lies at the intersection of neuromodulation, psychiatry, and immunology-offering hope for hard-to-treat conditions, yet demanding rigorous trials to separate myths from medicine. In this article, we review the current clinical and experimental applications of tVNS, analyze its mixed efficacy across psychiatric, immunological, and neurological disorders, and highlight the mechanistic insights, stimulation parameters, and emerging technologies that may shape next-generation therapies.},
}

Humans
*Vagus Nerve/physiology/physiopathology
*Vagus Nerve Stimulation/methods
*Mental Health
COVID-19/therapy
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
Depression/therapy

@article {pmid41594655,
year = {2026},
author = {Baindara, P and Dinata, R and Kumar, R},
title = {Yeast-Based Vaccine Platforms: Applications and Key Insights from the COVID-19 Era.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom16010116},
pmid = {41594655},
issn = {2218-273X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Saccharomycetales/genetics ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated vaccine innovation but also exposed weaknesses in global access and manufacturing. Yeast-based platforms, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia pastoris, also known as Komagataella phaffii, offer a practical complement to vector systems. These eukaryotic microorganisms combine safety, scalability, and cost-effectiveness with the ability to express complex antigens and assemble virus-like particles. Building on the success of the recombinant hepatitis B vaccine, recent advances in glycoengineering, CRISPR-based host optimization, and surface display technologies have expanded the utility of yeast-based platforms for the rapid development of vaccines. Yeast-derived SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) subunit vaccines, such as Corbevax and Abdala (CIGB-66), demonstrate that affordable, immunogenic, and thermostable products are feasible at scale. Emerging innovations in glycan humanization, thermostable formulations, and oral or mucosal delivery highlight the potential of yeast-based vaccines for decentralized manufacturing and equitable pandemic preparedness. This review summarizes recent technical and clinical progress in yeast-based vaccine research, positioning these platforms as accessible and adaptable tools for future outbreak responses and global immunization strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/genetics
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Saccharomycetales/genetics
Vaccine Development

@article {pmid41594651,
year = {2026},
author = {Lefebvre, M and Chahinian, H and Yahi, N and Fantini, J},
title = {The Enigmatic Conserved Q134-F135-N137 Triad in SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein: A Conformational Transducer?.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biom16010111},
pmid = {41594651},
issn = {2218-273X},
mesh = {*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/chemistry/metabolism/genetics ; *SARS-CoV-2/chemistry/metabolism ; Humans ; Protein Conformation ; COVID-19/virology ; Protein Domains ; Gangliosides/metabolism/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Lipid raft-associated gangliosides facilitate the early stages of SARS-CoV-2 entry by triggering the exposure of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) within the trimeric spike protein, which is initially sequestered. A broad range of in silico, cryoelectron microscopy and physicochemical approaches indicate that the RBD becomes accessible after a ganglioside-induced conformational rearrangement originating in the N-terminal domain (NTD) of one protomer and propagating to the neighboring RBD. We previously identified a triad of amino acids, Q134-F135-N137, as a strictly conserved element on the NTD. In the present review, we integrate a series of structural and experimental data revealing that this triad may act as a conformational transducer connected to a chain of residues that are capable of transmitting an internal conformational wave within the NTD. This wave is generated at the triad level after physical interactions with lipid raft gangliosides of the host cell membrane. It propagates inside the NTD and collides with the RBD of a neighboring protomer, triggering its unmasking. We also identify a chain of aromatic residues that are capable of controlling electron transfer through the NTD, leading us to hypothesize the existence of a dual conformational/quantum wave. In conclusion, the complete conservation of the Q134-F135-N137 triad despite six years of extensive NTD remodeling underscores its critical role in the viral life cycle. This triad represents a potential Achilles' heel within the hyper-variable NTD, offering a stable target for therapeutic or vaccinal interventions to disrupt the conformational wave and prevent infection. These possibilities are discussed.},
}

*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/chemistry/metabolism/genetics
*SARS-CoV-2/chemistry/metabolism
Humans
Protein Conformation
COVID-19/virology
Protein Domains
Gangliosides/metabolism/chemistry

@article {pmid41594447,
year = {2026},
author = {Ortello, C and Pace, L and Farina, D and Manzulli, V and Rondinone, V and Cipolletta, D and Galante, D},
title = {Suidae Coronaviruses: Epidemiology, Transmission, and Molecular Diagnosis.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ani16020257},
pmid = {41594447},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {PE00000007//EU funding within the NextGeneration EU-MUR PNRR/ ; },
abstract = {The emergence and spread of swine coronaviruses represent a growing challenge for both veterinary medicine and public health. These viruses exhibit high mutation rates, recombination potential, and the capacity for cross-species transmission. Among the most relevant pathogens are PEDV, TGEV, PRCV, PHEV, PDCoV, and SADS-CoV, which have caused significant outbreaks in swine production systems worldwide, with severe economic consequences. Recent evidence demonstrates coronavirus circulation in wild boar populations across Europe, including Italy, Spain, and Germany. Although wild boars are not confirmed as primary reservoirs, their ecological behavior and increasing overlap with domestic pigs raise concern over their potential role in maintaining viral circulation. Future research priorities should focus on developing a more integrated and coordinated system for the control of swine coronaviruses, including strengthened surveillance in both domestic pigs and wild boar populations, the use of molecular epidemiology techniques to identify emerging variants, and structured collaboration among veterinary, ecological, health, and regulatory sectors. Finally, investment is needed in the development of next-generation vaccines and diagnostic tools to address the considerable genetic variability of swine coronaviruses and to improve the prevention and early detection of and response to future epidemic threats.},
}

@article {pmid41593595,
year = {2026},
author = {Abusbaitan, HA and Gondwe, KW and Pirsch, A and Eyadat, A and Alshakhshir, NS and Vilakazi, N and Nkhoma-Mussa, Y and Hearst, MO and Mkandawire-Valhmu, L and Lopez, AA and Schadewald, DM and Dressel, A},
title = {Food insecurity and gender-based violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12889-026-26253-3},
pmid = {41593595},
issn = {1471-2458},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Gender-based violence (GBV) and food insecurity are conditions that affect women and may also exacerbate each other, as women experience disproportionately higher levels of both globally. Both of these conditions also increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this systematic review was to describe how the association between food insecurity and GBV across multiple global regions during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted women. The review aims to inform equity-driven interventions and policy development in the event for use during future emergency crises.

METHODS: The social-ecological model (SEM) and the intersectionality framework were the frameworks used for this systematic review. The PRISMA guidelines guided this systematic review methodology. The literature search was conducted using the APA PsycINFO, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science databases in November 2025. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) studies that assessed the association between food insecurity and GBV among women during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (3) studies published in English in peer-reviewed journals. The exclusion criterion was any study that was not primary research. The Quality Assessment Tool for Studies with Diverse Designs (QATSDD) was used for quality appraisal. Thematic analysis, guided by Hennink and colleagues (2020), was used to synthesize the results.

RESULTS: Thirty-two studies were included in the data analysis. At the individual level, food insecurity and GBV during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with a greater likelihood of reporting mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Additionally, being an immigrant was associated with a high risk of experiencing food insecurity and GBV. At the relationship level, food insecurity and GBV were associated with household instability and family dysfunction. At the community level, the association was influenced by poverty and limited employment opportunities. At the societal level, restrictive COVID-19 policies and prevailing cultural norms contributed to intensifying food insecurity and GBV.

CONCLUSION: This study offers support for strengthening crisis‒response systems across socio-ecological levels that incorporate gender-sensitive food security and violence prevention strategies during public health emergencies. New policies are needed to create effective support systems to promote women's health, especially marginalized groups, who experience the greatest vulnerability.},
}

@article {pmid41593575,
year = {2026},
author = {Güzel, S and Baysal, HY and Türkoğlu, N and Polat, H and Arslan, MA and Kurşun, E},
title = {Factors ınfluencing vaccine refusal in children: an umbrella review on COVID-19 and childhood vaccinations.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12889-026-26365-w},
pmid = {41593575},
issn = {1471-2458},
abstract = {Vaccination is a fundamental public health intervention that saves millions of lives and extends human lifespan. However, vaccine hesitancy and refusal have grown into a global threat due to misinformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of vaccines in reducing mortality rates and controlling outbreaks. Parents' attitudes toward vaccines directly affect children's health and vaccination rates in the community. Therefore, understanding the underlying reasons for parents' refusal of childhood vaccines and the COVID-19 vaccine is of great importance for combating epidemics and public health. The umbrella review method was used in this study. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses conducted between January 1, 2020, and December 30, 2024, were examined in this context. The pandemic period and recent history were considered due to the increase in systematic reviews examining the rapidly rising rates of vaccine refusal after the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies published in English in the PubMed, Wos, and Scopus databases were searched. Fifteen studies were included in the research. In conclusion, socio-demographic factors were found to be a major factor in COVID-19 vaccine refusal, whereas factors such as the "information factor," "vaccine-related factors," and "Cognitive Factors" were found to be more prominent in childhood vaccine refusal.},
}

@article {pmid41592860,
year = {2026},
author = {Sullivan, DJ and Reik, R and Prichard, A and Pagan, M and Tobian, AAR and Caturegli, P and Pekosz, A and Klein, SL and Bloch, EM and Shoham, S and Gebo, KA and Joyner, MJ and Senefeld, JW and Franchini, M and Focosi, D and Pandey, S and Lane, K and McBee, NA and Pirofski, LA and Casadevall, A and Hanley, DF},
title = {COVID-19 convalescent plasma safety and efficacy analysis for biologics license application approval.},
journal = {Expert review of anti-infective therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1080/14787210.2026.2623136},
pmid = {41592860},
issn = {1744-8336},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 convalescent plasma with high anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels transfused within 6 months from donor collection was formally approved by the Food and Drug Administration in December 2024 for COVID-19 treatment in immunocompromised patients. Here we summarize the safety and efficacy data submitted for the Biologics License Application.

AREAS COVERED: Safety evaluation in over 100,000 individuals in the expanded access program and 24,000 in randomized controlled trials, showed no serious adverse event increases. Robust randomized controlled trials established efficacy in four distinct disease stages-outpatient, inpatient, newly mechanically ventilated and in those immunocompromised to prevent acute disease progression or eliminate persistent viral carriage. Pharmacokinetics revealed a three-liter distribution volume with viral specific antibody effective dose near 2-50 milligrams. Major SARS-CoV-2 antibody-mediated antiviral actions included direct neutralization by viral binding interference to cell receptors and fragment-crystallizable mediated antiviral effects that reduce virions. Virus neutralization correlated with high anti-Spike antibody levels and antibody levels in the top donor plasma deciles retains therapeutic neutralization against future variants.

EXPERT OPINION: With pandemic progression, the COVID-19 convalescent plasma safety and efficacy evidence quality increased. Ultimate regulatory approval required robust randomized control efficacy data. Future infectious disease outbreaks require randomized controlled trials in the convalescent plasma roadmap.},
}

@article {pmid41592662,
year = {2026},
author = {Dağdeviren, İ and Uygur, MM and Keleş, EÇ},
title = {The impact of thyroid dysfunction on COVID-19 severity and mortality: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {120851},
doi = {10.1016/j.cca.2026.120851},
pmid = {41592662},
issn = {1873-3492},
abstract = {Thyroid function abnormalities have been increasingly reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), yet the clinical significance of these alterations remains uncertain. Because early identification of individuals at risk for severe illness is essential, this study systematically evaluated the association between thyroid dysfunction and COVID-19 severity. A comprehensive search of major databases identified 4260 records, of which 13 observational studies met the eligibility criteria, yielding a total of 2829 patients from diverse geographical regions. Mild, moderate, and non-ICU patients were categorized as the non-severe group, while the severe-to-critical group included patients classified as severe or critical, those requiring ICU admission, or hospitalized in dedicated COVID-19 wards according to the criteria used in the original studies. The pooled analysis demonstrated that total and free triiodothyronine (TT3 and FT3) levels were consistently lower in patients with more severe disease, and thyroid dysfunction was associated with 4.8-fold higher odds of severe-to-critical COVID-19. Although thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were reduced in patients with COVID-19 compared with non-infected individuals, TSH alone did not predict disease severity. Higher TT3 and FT3 concentrations were consistently associated with a milder clinical course. These findings suggest that thyroid function tests may provide useful prognostic information in patients with COVID-19. The observed hormonal patterns may reflect alterations along the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis; however, this interpretation remains hypothetical and requires confirmation through studies incorporating direct pituitary hormone assessment. Low TT3 and FT3 levels appear to be associated with worse clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients, suggesting their potential utility as prognostic indicators. However, further prospective studies are needed before recommending routine monitoring for clinical management.},
}

@article {pmid41592552,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, J and Lee, JH and Park, H and Jang, MJ and Yoon, SH},
title = {Long-Term Pulmonary Function and Radiologic Abnormalities Up to 3 Years After COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Korean journal of radiology},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {174-185},
doi = {10.3348/kjr.2025.1272},
pmid = {41592552},
issn = {2005-8330},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging/complications ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods ; Respiratory Function Tests ; *Lung/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Female ; Time Factors ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate the long-term trajectory of pulmonary function test (PFT) and CT findings in COVID-19 survivors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic literature search of PubMed and EMBASE was performed to identify studies published from January 2020 to June 2024 reporting PFT and/or chest CT outcomes at ≥6 months post-COVID-19, up to 36 months. The reference lists of relevant articles were also manually reviewed. Two investigators independently extracted study characteristics, patient demographics, and PFT and CT outcomes at prespecified follow-up intervals (6, 12, 24, and 36 months). Multivariate meta-analyses were conducted to evaluate temporal trends in lung function and radiological abnormalities. Sensitivity analyses, including stratification by disease severity and pooled analyses of studies with multiple follow-up time points, were performed to confirm the robustness of the findings.

RESULTS: In total, 152 studies (n = 25,766; mean age, 56.7 ± 13.2 years; 14,999 men) were included: 133 reporting PFT outcomes and 80 reporting CT findings. Diffusion capacity (DLCO) impairment was the most common abnormality, showing gradual improvement from 42% at 6 months to 35% at 36 months (P = 0.008) with a corresponding increase in the % predicted DLCO. Similarly, the prevalence of forced vital capacity (FVC) impairment decreased over time, accompanied by an increase in the % predicted FVC. On chest CT, the proportion of patients with no relevant findings remained stable at 30%-40% (P = 0.14). The prevalence of ground-glass opacities (GGO) decreased from 32% at 6 months to 20% at 36 months (P = 0.01), while that of fibrosis persisted at 27%-47% without a significant change (P = 0.28). Subgroup analysis based on disease severity revealed similar temporal trends in both low-severity and high-severity cohorts.

CONCLUSION: DLCO, FVC, and GGO findings improved gradually up to 36 months post-COVID-19; however, over one-third of the patients continued to exhibit reduced DLCO. Fibrosis persists with limited evidence of resolution over a 3-year period, suggesting a stable but nonprogressive pattern.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/physiopathology/diagnostic imaging/complications
*Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods
Respiratory Function Tests
*Lung/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Male
Middle Aged
Female
Time Factors

@article {pmid41591417,
year = {2026},
author = {Faria, C and Daneshi, K and Baser, A and Mauersberger, H and G-Medhin, A and Soneson, E and White, S and Anderson, J and Ford, T},
title = {The global prevalence of eating disorders in children and young people: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {European child & adolescent psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41591417},
issn = {1435-165X},
support = {(NIHR203312//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
abstract = {The increase in eating disorder (ED) presentations among children and young people (CYP) during the Covid-19 pandemic represents a global health concern, given the associated morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions. We conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the worldwide pooled prevalence of EDs in CYP at a population level. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and LILACS for all English-language studies reporting population level ED prevalence data between January 2013 to February 27th, 2024. The primary outcome was overall prevalence of EDs. We used a random-effects model for the meta-analysis, I[2] statistics to assess heterogeneity, and the Hoy scale for quality assessment. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42022333223. Sixteen studies including 77,714 children and young people from 12 countries met eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review, whilst twelve studies with 56,758 participants provided data suitable for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Study quality was moderate; ten studies were classified with a low risk of bias, one with moderate and five with high. The global point prevalence for any ED was 5.23% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 10.05, I[2]= 99.95%). The commonest type was Other Specified Feeding or ED (point prevalence of 4.88%, 95% CI 1.46 to 8.30, I[2]= 99.42%), which, like all types of ED was more common among girls (5.25%, 95% CI 0.32 to 10.18, I[2]= 99.69%) than boys (3.97%, 95% CI 0.45 to 7.49, I[2]= 97.77%), although confidence intervals overlapped. Our findings illustrate the urgent need to expand service provision as well as to evaluate and develop strategies for early ED identification in children and young people, given a global prevalence of 1 in 20.},
}

@article {pmid41590554,
year = {2025},
author = {Klimonda, A and Kowalska, I},
title = {From Environmental Threat to Control: A Review of Technologies for Removal of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds from Wastewater.},
journal = {Membranes},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/membranes16010001},
pmid = {41590554},
issn = {2077-0375},
support = {825 305 0501//Wrocław University of Science and Technology/ ; },
abstract = {Cationic surfactants from the group of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are widely used in disinfectants, cosmetics, and household and industrial products. Their strong antimicrobial activity and chemical stability make them valuable in applications but also highly persistent and toxic when released into aquatic environments. This problem has become increasingly relevant during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, when global use of QAC-based disinfectants increased drastically, resulting in their frequent detection in municipal, hospital, and industrial effluents. The concentrations of QACs reported in wastewater range from trace levels to several mg/L, often reaching inhibitory thresholds for biological treatment processes. Although surfactants are not listed in any current European directive, the revised Directive (EU) 2024/1440 classifies micropollutants as a priority group, imposing stricter environmental quality standards and mandatory monitoring requirements. Within this regulatory framework, QACs are recognized as compounds of emerging concern, and their effective removal from wastewater has become a critical challenge. This review summarizes the current knowledge on conventional treatment technologies (coagulation, adsorption, ion exchange, advanced oxidation, and biological processes) and membrane-based methods (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, forward osmosis, and hybrid systems) for the removal of cationic surfactants from water and wastewater. Mechanisms of separation, performance, and operational limitations are discussed.},
}

@article {pmid41590208,
year = {2026},
author = {Parikh, RR and Shetty, NU and Singhal, C and Patel, P and Manghani, P and Pillai, AA and Chocontá-Piraquive, LA and Butler, ME},
title = {Telehealth for Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare: Evidence Map of Effectiveness, Patient and Provider Experiences and Preferences, and Patient Engagement Strategies.},
journal = {Clinics and practice},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/clinpract16010014},
pmid = {41590208},
issn = {2039-7275},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to systematically map evidence to inform best practices for sexual and reproductive healthcare delivered via telehealth (TeleSRH) in United States-based Title X-funded clinics.

METHODS: We searched three databases (2017-2025) for studies evaluating effectiveness, harms, patient and provider experiences, barriers/facilitators, and engagement strategies encompassing TeleSRH for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), contraceptive care/family planning (CC/FP), and sexual wellness, in countries with a human development index of ≥0.8.

RESULTS: From 5963 references and 436 articles, we included 142 eligible publications. TeleSRH use declined since the COVID-19 pandemic's peak but remains higher than pre-pandemic. Evidence comes mostly from poor-quality studies. TeleSRH increases access and adherence to STI prevention (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV). Tele-follow-up may safely facilitate HIV care continuity. For CC/FP, TeleSRH is comparable to in-person care for patient satisfaction and uptake; patients are less likely to select long-acting reversible contraception but post-initiation tele-follow-up may increase its continuation rates. Vasectomy completion rates may be similar between pre-procedural counseling via telehealth versus in-person. TeleSRH's potential benefits might include reduced travel time, wait times, no-show rates, and clinic human resource burden (via tele-triaging) and increased preventative screening rates for STIs and non-communicable diseases, prescription refill rates, ability to receive confidential care in preferred settings, and rural/marginalized community outreach. Implementation challenges span technological and capital constraints, provider availability, staff capability building, restrictive policies, language incompatibility, and patient mistrust. Supplementing synchronous TeleSRH with asynchronous communication (e.g., mobile application) may improve continued patient engagement.

CONCLUSIONS: Preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic TeleSRH can be effective, with high patient acceptability; however, effectiveness and adoption hinge on contextual factors outlined in this review.},
}

@article {pmid41589190,
year = {2025},
author = {Alrehaili, RS and Almuzaini, S and Alrajhi, J and Dashti, A and Alsuroor, O and Alzahrani, F and Albishri, A and Almousa, M and Homdi, L and Alshammakhy, R and Alfaifi, F and Alkharfi, A and Aldhafeeri, G and Alzahrani, TM},
title = {Teledentistry in the Era of Digital Dentistry: Clinical Applications, Patient Experience, and Equity-Oriented Policy Implications.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {12},
pages = {e100137},
pmid = {41589190},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Teledentistry has shifted from small pilot projects and emergency use during the COVID-19 pandemic to a realistic option for delivering parts of routine oral healthcare. However, its role in long-term service models, equity, and health-system performance remains incompletely defined. This narrative review aimed to provide an up-to-date synthesis of the evidence on teledentistry across clinical specialties, populations, and settings, and to discuss implications for practice, policy, and future research. Electronic databases were searched from inception to December 2025 for studies evaluating teledentistry or related digital remote dental services. Eligible sources included observational and interventional studies, reviews, economic evaluations, implementation reports, and key professional or policy documents. Data were organized thematically around clinical effectiveness, patient and provider experience, cost and resource use, equity and access, regulatory frameworks, and emerging technologies. Across settings, teledentistry supports accurate diagnosis and triage for selected indications, particularly in orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, and community-based screening. Most studies report gains in access, reduced need for travel, and high levels of patient satisfaction, especially in rural, institutionalized, and otherwise underserved groups. Evidence for long-term clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and the impact on oral-health inequities is promising but remains heterogeneous and often limited by small samples, short follow-up, and methodological constraints. Successful programs depend on reliable infrastructure, integration with electronic records, clear clinical protocols, appropriate training, and supportive legal and reimbursement frameworks, while concerns persist about data protection, medico-legal responsibility, and the potential for digital services to widen rather than narrow gaps between population groups. Overall, teledentistry should be viewed as a component of planned hybrid oral healthcare models rather than a substitute for in-person care. Future work needs pragmatic comparative studies, robust economic analyses, and equity-focused evaluations. Under these conditions, teledentistry has the potential to contribute meaningfully to more accessible, continuous, and person-centered oral healthcare.},
}

@article {pmid41589019,
year = {2026},
author = {Murugavel, A and Ramakrishnan, J},
title = {Virulence and pathogenicity of secondary fungal infections.},
journal = {Critical reviews in microbiology},
volume = {52},
number = {1},
pages = {139-158},
doi = {10.1080/1040841X.2025.2537423},
pmid = {41589019},
issn = {1549-7828},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/immunology/microbiology ; Virulence ; *Mycoses/microbiology/immunology ; Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Candida/pathogenicity ; *Coinfection/microbiology ; Immunocompromised Host ; Mucorales/pathogenicity ; Aspergillus/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {Fungal infections pose a significant global health threat, particularly among immunocompromised individuals facing life-threatening complications. The severity of secondary fungal infections is driven by the expression of virulence factors in immunocompromised individuals. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the susceptibility of immunocompromised patients to secondary fungal infections, prompting a closer examination of the underlying mechanisms. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the virulence mechanisms of major fungal pathogens (Aspergillus, Candida, and Mucorales) in COVID-19-associated secondary infections. The review systematically categorizes key virulence factors, including thermotolerance, adhesins, hydrolytic enzymes, mycotoxins, and biofilm formation, and explores their interplay with the host's immune status, particularly under corticosteroid therapy. Focusing on the intersection of fungal pathogenesis and COVID-19, the article examines molecular mechanisms underlying Aspergillus, Mucorales, and Candida pathogenicity, including iron metabolism, spore coat proteins, and immune evasion strategies. Followed by linking the molecular mechanisms to therapeutic strategies and clinical outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/immunology/microbiology
Virulence
*Mycoses/microbiology/immunology
Virulence Factors/genetics/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Candida/pathogenicity
*Coinfection/microbiology
Immunocompromised Host
Mucorales/pathogenicity
Aspergillus/pathogenicity

@article {pmid41588352,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, R and Yang, J and Yang, W and Liao, P},
title = {The efficacy and safety of convalescent plasma for COVID-19 patients: a meta-analysis based on double-blinded parallel-arm randomized placebo-controlled trials.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {147},
pmid = {41588352},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/mortality ; *COVID-19 Serotherapy/adverse effects/methods ; Double-Blind Method ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; Immunization, Passive/adverse effects/methods ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Convalescent plasma (CP) showed promising benefits in previous coronavirus pandemics regarding efficacy and safety. However, the efficacy of CP from COVID-19 patients remains controversial and uncertain based on current randomized controlled trials (RCTs). There is an urgent need to establish the efficacy and safety of CP for COVID-19 patients as soon as possible.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the efficacy and safety of CP using high-quality, double-blinded, parallel-arm, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials, and to provide evidence-based support for the clinical application of CP against COVID-19.

METHODS: Electronic databases such as Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched from inception to October 18, 2024. This meta-analysis synthesized dichotomous outcomes, including 28-day mortality, hospitalization rates, invasive mechanical ventilation, adverse events (AEs), and serious AEs, using an intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager (RevMan) 5.4.1, the Mantel-Haenszel (M-H) statistical method, and a random effects (RE) analysis model. Risk ratios (RRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as effect measures. Two reviewers independently searched, screened, and included eligible clinical trials, extracted relevant data, and assessed risks of bias (ROB) using the Cochrane ROB tool 1.0 and RevMan 5.4.1. The RRs and 95% CIs in this meta-analysis were computed as dichotomous outcomes. Statistical heterogeneity, subgroup analysis, and sensitivity analysis were conducted to explore heterogeneities and their causes. The quality of evidence was evaluated, and recommendations for clinical practice were based on the GRADE approach. The prospective meta-analysis protocol was registered on PROSPERO.

RESULTS: A total of 996 references were identified through database and manual searches. Nine eligible double-blinded, parallel-arm, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials, involving 1898 subjects in the intervention group and 1696 in the control group, were included in the meta-analysis. Seven, four, three, three, and three trials were judged as low ROB for mortality, hospitalization rates, invasive mechanical ventilation, AEs, and serious AEs, respectively. The remaining trials were deemed high-risk for their respective outcomes. The meta-analysis on hospitalization rates was abandoned due to high heterogeneity (I²=92%) among the included trials. The RRs, 95% CIs, and P-values were as follows: 0.78 [0.62, 0.97], P = 0.03 for mortality; 0.84 [0.50, 1.42], P = 0.51 for invasive mechanical ventilation; 1.01 [0.78, 1.32], P = 0.92 for AEs; and 0.96 [0.73, 1.28], P = 0.80 for serious AEs, all with low or medium levels of heterogeneity. These results suggest that CP infusion in COVID-19 patients reduced mortality by 22% and exhibited excellent safety without reducing the incidence of invasive mechanical ventilation. Sensitivity analysis on mortality, using the combined effect measure (RR 0.83 [0.66, 1.06], I²=0%, Z = 1.46, P = 0.14) after excluding the study by O'Donnell, showed no significant difference between the intervention and control groups, implying that the excluded study might have a stronger effect in reducing mortality. Subgroup analysis based on age indicated that CP therapy in COVID-19 patients aged ≤ 60 years reduced mortality by 36%. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses for other outcomes demonstrated robust pooled results. The PROSPERO registration code is CRD42022324324.

CONCLUSIONS: Administration of CP to COVID-19 patients, especially those aged ≤ 60 years, may reduce mortality with excellent safety without more AEs, and serious AEs, but does not reduce the incidence of invasive mechanical ventilation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/mortality
*COVID-19 Serotherapy/adverse effects/methods
Double-Blind Method
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
Immunization, Passive/adverse effects/methods
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid41586257,
year = {2025},
author = {Heendeniya, SN and Chen, S and Bhatti, S and Zahra, QUA and Rahimizadeh, K and Poudel, BH and Wilton, SD and Veedu, RN},
title = {Beginning of a new era of synthetic messenger RNA therapeutics: Comprehensive insights on mRNA drug design, development and applications.},
journal = {Experimental biology and medicine (Maywood, N.J.)},
volume = {250},
number = {},
pages = {10784},
pmid = {41586257},
issn = {1535-3699},
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Drug Design ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Drug Development ; },
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics have significantly transformed contemporary medicine, particularly through their role as the active component in the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. This remarkable achievement is the culmination of extensive research conducted over many years by scientists. The widespread administration of the COVID-19 vaccine has further accelerated research into the precise therapeutic potential of mRNA technologies. Since mRNA doesn't integrate with the host genome, the safety and versatility of mRNA-based therapeutics make them an iconic candidate in targeted therapies. Due to a surge in innovation efforts, biomodification of the molecular signatures of mRNAs like the 5'cap, untranslated regions (UTRs), and the poly(A) tail are being developed to increase translation efficacy. Recent advancements in chemical modifications, codon optimization techniques, and targeted delivery methods have significantly enhanced the stability of synthetic mRNAs while concurrently reducing their immunogenicity. Various mRNA manufacturing and synthesizing methods are investigated in this review, focusing on their scalability and limitations. mRNA therapeutic strategies can be divided into protein replacement, immune modulation, and cellular modulation. This review explores mRNA's molecular landscape and comprehensive utility, including applications in both clinical trials and commercial sectors.},
}

Humans
*RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Drug Design
COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Drug Development

@article {pmid41586005,
year = {2025},
author = {Martín-Rodríguez, A and González-Prieto, N},
title = {Influence of physical activity on perceived stress and mental health in university students: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in sports and active living},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1710832},
pmid = {41586005},
issn = {2624-9367},
abstract = {University students are a population particularly vulnerable to stress, anxiety, and reduced wellbeing. Physical activity has been proposed as a protective factor, but existing findings are heterogeneous. This systematic review examined the relationship between physical activity and mental health in university students, focusing on perceived stress, anxiety, depression, and psychological wellbeing. It was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, and the study protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251179614). A total of 38 studies published between 2020 and 2025 were analyzed, involving more than 20,000 participants from various countries. Most studies were cross-sectional, although some longitudinal and quasi-experimental studies were also included. The results showed a consistent association between higher levels of physical activity and lower levels of stress, depression, and anxiety, as well as an increase in subjective wellbeing. In addition, mediators such as sleep quality and resilience, and moderators such as gender or internet use, were identified. The effects were more significant when physical activity was combined with other healthy habits such as good sleep and low sedentary behavior. Although most of the studies were not experimental, the evidence suggested a possible beneficial causal effect of exercise. The need for comprehensive interventions in universities was highlighted, promoting physical activity as a preventive and therapeutic strategy to improve the mental health of students. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251179614, PROSPERO, CRD420251179614.},
}

@article {pmid41585373,
year = {2025},
author = {Koyou, HL and Ramachandran, V and Salleh, MN and Wan Sulaiman, WA and Mohamed, MH and Mohd Badrin, MJQ and Jelemie, CS},
title = {S100 Protein and Interleukin Biomarkers Among COVID-19 Subjects With and Without Pneumonia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {British journal of biomedical science},
volume = {82},
number = {},
pages = {15355},
pmid = {41585373},
issn = {2474-0896},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood ; Biomarkers/blood ; *S100 Proteins/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Interleukins/blood ; Interleukin-10/blood ; Severity of Illness Index ; Interleukin-6/blood ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global spread of COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has resulted in a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe complications, such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and multiple organ failure. Identifying effective biomarkers is essential for predicting disease severity and improving patient management.

OBJECTIVES: This meta-analysis aims to assess the significance of S100 proteins (S100A4, S100A8, S100A9, S100A12, S100B, S100P) and interleukins (IL) (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, IL-1β) in COVID-19 patients, comparing those with and without pneumonia or organ failure.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted on different databases, yielding 47 relevant studies published between 2020 and 2024. Data on the prevalence of IL and S100 protein levels were extracted and analyzed using pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) and heterogeneity (I[2]) to evaluate their associations with disease severity.

RESULTS: IL-6 and IL-10 levels were significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients suffering from pneumonia or organ failure. IL-6 levels were notably higher in pneumonia patients compared to those without (SMD = 0.34 [95% CI: 0.17, 0.52], I[2] = 29%). Similarly, elevated S100B levels were observed in severe cases (SMD = 0.51 [95% CI: 0.19, 0.83], I[2] = 0%). While IL-10 levels showed high variability (I[2] = 90%), they remained consistently linked with worse outcomes.

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis underscores the potential of IL-6, IL-10, and S100 proteins as important biomarkers in evaluating COVID-19 severity, offering valuable insights to help clinical management.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood
Biomarkers/blood
*S100 Proteins/blood
SARS-CoV-2
*Interleukins/blood
Interleukin-10/blood
Severity of Illness Index
Interleukin-6/blood

@article {pmid41585361,
year = {2025},
author = {Wakai, TN and Yensii, NG and Kernyuy, FB and Bella-Omunagbe, M and Chinedu, SN and Afolabi, IS},
title = {Global research landscape of telomere biology in infectious diseases: mechanistic links between host-pathogen interactions and immune ageing.},
journal = {Frontiers in aging},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1729868},
pmid = {41585361},
issn = {2673-6217},
abstract = {Telomeres, nucleoprotein structures located at the ends of chromosomes, maintain genomic stability and regulate cellular lifespan, particularly in immune cells. Telomere shortening, driven by cell division and limited telomerase activity, accelerates immune ageing and increases susceptibility to infectious diseases. Chronic infections like HIV and tuberculosis exacerbate telomere attrition through sustained immune activation and oxidative stress. This study presents a bibliometric review of research on telomere length and infectious diseases from 2005 to 2025. Data from the Web of Science Core Collection were analysed using VOSviewer and CiteSpace, software tools for visualising co-authorship, citation, and keyword networks, to assess publication trends, collaborations, and themes. A total of 123 publications were identified, showing steady growth with a 60% increase in publications from 2020 to 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Leading journals included Frontiers in Immunology, PLoS ONE, and Scientific Reports. The United States produced the largest share of publications, followed by Canada and Spain, with notable contributions from the University of British Columbia and Université de Montréal. Influential authors such as Côté HCF, Pick N, and Maan EJ have advanced research, particularly in the areas of HIV and tuberculosis. Keyword analysis highlighted two dominant themes: immune ageing and infection-related stress. Malaria research was comparatively scarce, underscoring a gap for future investigation. These findings inform future research on telomere-targeted interventions and epidemiological studies aimed at enhancing infectious disease management. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the field's progress and identifies key areas for future investigation.},
}

@article {pmid41585255,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, Y and Liu, X and Cui, W and Hu, Y and Song, W and Zhu, L and Wang, Z and Ji, X and Wang, Y},
title = {Visualization of childhood allergic diseases based on VOSviewer and CiteSpace.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1615154},
pmid = {41585255},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Childhood allergic diseases, such as eczema, allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, and cough-variant asthma, are a growing health concern around the world. There is a lot of research about these diseases, but a clear and complete study is still needed to better understand them and help guide future research.

METHODS: This study used a bibliometric analysis of research on childhood allergic diseases from 2014 to 2024. The main goal was to find patterns in publications, main researchers, research focuses, teamwork between groups, and new topics. Data were collected from Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed. The study included English-language articles and reviews only. The tools VOSviewer and CiteSpace were used to study publication patterns, where research was done, which authors and journals worked together, how often papers were cited together, which papers were cited the most, and how keywords appeared and formed groups.

RESULTS: The amount of research was different for each disease. Eczema got the most attention and kept growing. Cough-variant asthma had fewer studies. The United States and China were the main countries that did most of the work and had well-known authors. The focus of studies changed from general studies about disease spread to more detailed topics like the microbiome, genetics, special treatments, environmental causes, other health problems that happen together, and the effects of COVID-19. The way researchers worked together was not the same for all diseases. This showed that research was more developed and better connected for some diseases and less developed for others, mainly for cough-variant asthma.

CONCLUSION: This study gives a short look at recent research on childhood allergic diseases. It shows that eczema research is growing fast, but cough-variant asthma is still studied much less, with only 110 papers in 10 years. This big difference shows a clear lack of knowledge. These results can help make better research plans and improve medical care in this field.},
}

@article {pmid41584416,
year = {2025},
author = {Soica, IL and Kupeli, N and Eyitayo-Olonade, K and Davies, N},
title = {A Systematic Review of Advance Care Planning with People Living with Dementia: Learnings from the Covid-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Current health sciences journal},
volume = {51},
number = {3},
pages = {299-310},
pmid = {41584416},
issn = {2067-0656},
abstract = {This study focused on exploring the experiences of people with dementia (PD) with advance care planning (ACP) during the pandemic. We analyzed the barriers and facilitators to implementing ACP and made recommendations for research, practice and policy. Regarding the design, the review followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO. Three databases (CINAHL, PUBMED, Embase) were searched, and records from 2019-2023 were screened against eligibility criteria. The experiences of PD in various international settings, including care homes, community hospitals, tertiary health settings and research facilities were explored. More precisely, we followed PD and their carers who engaged with ACP tools during the pandemic, while applying qualitative and quantitative measurements. The results were based on nine studies that were included. Themes related to timing of ACP, methods used to conduct ACP during the pandemic and the topics discussed. The pandemic prompted discussions about goals of care and PD found digital interventions to be a viable alternative to in-person ACP. Barriers to this included accessibility issues, difficulty with using technology, and lack of electronic means. In conclusion, digital ACP interventions are a viable method of delivering ACP, but they should be adapted and used alongside in-person consultations.},
}

@article {pmid41584279,
year = {2025},
author = {Wang, C and Fan, Y and Li, C and Chang, B and Wang, J and Cao, X and Liang, G and Liang, Y and Sun, K},
title = {The prevalence of orthostatic intolerance, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome and orthostatic hypotension in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1679252},
pmid = {41584279},
issn = {2297-055X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in over 776 million confirmed cases worldwide, with post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 now recognized as a significant public health concern. Autonomic dysfunction-including orthostatic intolerance (OI), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and orthostatic hypotension (OH)-constitutes a major complication of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19. However, reliable epidemiological estimates remain scarce. As a result, we aim to provide the first global prevalence estimates of autonomic dysfunction in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, including 21 observational studies. Random-effects models were utilized to estimate pooled prevalence, and sensitivity and meta-regression analyses were conducted to explore heterogeneity. GRADE assessments evaluated evidence certainty.

RESULTS: The pooled prevalence estimates demonstrated 70.6% for OI, 36.2% for POTS, and 18.6% for OH. Advancing age exhibited a significant negative association with POTS and OH. In contrast, prolonged post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 duration and female sex showed no significant association with the incidence rates of these conditions. Subgroup analyses indicated higher POTS and OH incidence in mild vs. moderate or severe COVID-19 cases. Publication bias was minimal for OH but evident for POTS.

CONCLUSION: This study provides the first global prevalence estimates of autonomic dysfunction in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19, highlighting its disproportionate burden among younger populations and non-linear temporal trends. The findings advance epidemiological understanding and inform evidence-based public health strategies to address post-COVID complications.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=556546, PROSPERO CRD42024556546.},
}

@article {pmid41584182,
year = {2025},
author = {Efremova, MI and Cho, Y and Miglietta, E and Pinto da Costa, M},
title = {Burnout scales used in healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and their psychometric properties: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1661548},
pmid = {41584182},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Psychometrics ; *Burnout, Professional/diagnosis/psychology ; Reproducibility of Results ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Burnout has been assessed by a variety of screening instruments worldwide. This systematic review investigated the characteristics and psychometric properties of these scales used during the COVID-19 pandemic to assess burnout among healthcare workers.

METHODS: A systematic literature search and review was conducted based on four operational criteria: burnout scales, healthcare workers, psychometric properties, and COVID-19. We retrieved records from APA PsycInfo, APA PsycArticles, MEDLINE, Academic Search Complete, and EMBASE. All peer reviewed articles that assessed burnout in healthcare workers during COVID-19 were included.

RESULTS: A total of 794 articles met the inclusion criteria, and 27 burnout scales were identified, two of which were developed during the pandemic. The scales varied in number of items, subscales, response options, language, and country of development. At least one psychometric property was reported for 19 of the 27 scales, and 15 scales demonstrated desirable internal consistency in this novel context. For validity, 9 out of 27 scales reported at least one psychometric property. This was predominantly for measures on structural validity.

CONCLUSION: Although a wide range of scales were used to assess burnout in healthcare workers during COVID-19, the psychometric properties reported were predominantly on reliability rather than validity. The findings of this review can be used to guide appropriate instrument selection for burnout in crisis contexts such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

PROSPERO registration database: CRD42023414070.},
}

Humans
*Health Personnel/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Psychometrics
*Burnout, Professional/diagnosis/psychology
Reproducibility of Results
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Surveys and Questionnaires

@article {pmid41583464,
year = {2025},
author = {Grunst, MW and Li, W and Mothes, W},
title = {Viral glycoprotein-mediated entry and antibody-mediated immunity in HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1733684},
pmid = {41583464},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *HIV-1/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *Virus Internalization ; *HIV Infections/immunology/virology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Animals ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; Immunity, Humoral ; },
abstract = {Enveloped viruses such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have caused some of the deadliest pandemics in human history. These viruses utilize Class 1 viral fusion glycoproteins to bind their host receptor and subsequently fuse the virus and host cell membranes to mediate entry. Viral fusion glycoproteins are prominent antigens on the surface of virions and are essential for the virus life cycle. Therefore, they are a primary target for the humoral immune system and the basis for the design of vaccines. Antibodies which target viral fusion glycoproteins can neutralize viral infectivity and activate the immune system in several distinct ways. In this review, we compare mechanisms of how class 1 viral fusion glycoproteins mediate viral entry and cover diverse ways in which antibodies targeting these glycoproteins can neutralize viruses and activate the immune system to clear virus-infected cells.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*HIV-1/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*Virus Internalization
*HIV Infections/immunology/virology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
Animals
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
Immunity, Humoral

@article {pmid41583170,
year = {2025},
author = {Hassan Awaji, HH and Sahli, RN and Albalwi, FB and Albalawi, WS and Muhawish, TA and Albalawi, HM and Alsubiti, AK and Alanazi, JS and Hamdi, A and Alshehri, N and Qarni, FS and Abu Salem, N and Albalawi, FN},
title = {The Impact of Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) Revaccination on COVID-19 Infection Among Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {12},
pages = {e99986},
pmid = {41583170},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine has been hypothesized to confer nonspecific immune protection against viral infections, including coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This meta-analysis evaluates the protective role of BCG vaccination in preventing COVID-19 among healthcare workers (HCWs). A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported the effect of BCG vaccination for COVID-19 prevention in HCWs compared with placebo. Nine RCTs were included, with a total of 10,295 HCWs. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MDs) were calculated using random- and fixed-effects models to assess the impact on symptomatic COVID-19, severe disease, hospitalization, seropositivity, duration of illness, and serious adverse events. Heterogeneity was evaluated using I[2] statistics. BCG vaccination did not significantly reduce the risk of symptomatic COVID-19 (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.94-1.17, p = 0.43, I[2] = 47%), severe COVID-19 (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.97-1.48, p = 0.09, I[2] = 0%), or hospitalization (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.71-1.50, p = 0.86, I[2] = 0%). There was no significant difference in the duration of symptomatic illness (MD = 0.09 days, 95% CI: -1.41-1.59, p = 0.90, I[2] = 80%) or in rates of COVID-19 seropositivity (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 0.81-1.98, p = 0.30, I[2] = 76%). The incidence of serious adverse events was not significantly different between groups (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 0.34-5.97, p = 0.62, I[2] = 81%). This meta-analysis found no significant protective effect of BCG vaccination against any clinical or serological endpoint of COVID-19 in HCWs. The results do not support the use of BCG as a preventive measure against COVID-19 in this population.},
}

@article {pmid40589009,
year = {2025},
author = {Binesh, A and Venkatachalam, K},
title = {IL 6 Cascade in Post COVID Cardiovascular Complications: A Review of Endothelial Injury and Clotting Pathways.},
journal = {Cardiovascular & hematological disorders drug targets},
volume = {25},
number = {3},
pages = {149-157},
pmid = {40589009},
issn = {2212-4063},
support = {ICMR-IIRP-0508/2023//Indian Council of Medical Research, Govt of India/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/blood/immunology ; *Interleukin-6/metabolism ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology ; *Endothelium, Vascular/pathology/metabolism/immunology/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Blood Coagulation ; Thrombosis/etiology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed various long-term cardiovascular complications linked to increased inflammatory responses, particularly through Interleukin-6 (IL-6) activity. IL-6 is a major cytokine in the immune system that plays a bimodal role: it supports acute immune defense but contributes to chronic inflammation and tissue damage when dysregulated. High levels of IL-6 during and after COVID-19 are linked with poor outcomes, such as Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), myocarditis, endothelial dysfunction, and thrombotic events. Chronic IL-6 signaling impairs vascular homeostasis, leading to endothelial dysfunction and increased thrombosis. Viral and cytokine-driven inflammation leads to endothelial damage caused by COVID-19. These include mechanisms that implicate the downregulation of ACE2, oxidative stress, and reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide. All these contribute to arterial stiffness, atherosclerosis, and thrombosis. It is possible to reduce the risk of heart disease by using targeted therapies, such as IL-6 inhibitors, which can help reduce inflammation. Biomarkers of endothelial health and inflammation include EPCs and CECs. Pharmacological strategies, such as RAS inhibitors and statins, may have additive effects on endothelial function, but ACE2 upregulation remains a major question. Rehabilitation and exercise-based approaches are further supportive of vascular recovery. When IL-6 activity stays high after an infection, it causes blood to clot too easily and cause thrombotic problems. This makes patients more likely to experience an ischemic stroke or pulmonary embolism. Anticoagulants and IL-6 inhibitors like tocilizumab reduce these risks. IL-6's long-term effects on the heart need to be studied more, and biomarker screening, lifestyle changes, and personalized therapies must be used to prevent heart disease as much as possible. A holistic management approach that integrates anti-inflammatory and anticoagulation strategies will significantly improve outcomes in survivors of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/blood/immunology
*Interleukin-6/metabolism
*Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology
*Endothelium, Vascular/pathology/metabolism/immunology/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Blood Coagulation
Thrombosis/etiology

@article {pmid40353409,
year = {2025},
author = {Nguyen, HL and Li, MS},
title = {Coupling of SARS-CoV-2 to Amyloid Fibrils and Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation.},
journal = {Current protein & peptide science},
volume = {26},
number = {10},
pages = {844-860},
pmid = {40353409},
issn = {1875-5550},
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/chemistry ; Humans ; *Amyloid/metabolism/chemistry ; *COVID-19/virology/metabolism ; Phase Separation ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), but because the receptor protein of this virus can appear not only in the lungs and throat but also in various parts of the host's body, it causes different diseases. Recent observations have suggested that SARS-CoV-2 damages the central nervous system of patients in a manner similar to amyloid-associated neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Neurodegenerative diseases are believed to be associated with the self-assembly of amyloid proteins and peptides. On the other hand, whole proteins or parts of them encoded by SARS-CoV-2 can form amyloid fibrils, which may play an important role in amyloid-related diseases. Motivated by this evidence, this mini-review discusses experimental and computational studies of SARS-CoV-2 proteins that can form amyloid aggregates. Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation (LLPS) is a dynamic and reversible process leading to the creation of membrane-less organelles within the cytoplasm, which is not bound by a membrane that concentrates specific types of biomolecules. These organelles play pivotal roles in cellular signaling, stress response, and the regulation of biomolecular condensates. Recently, LLPS of the Nucleocapsid (N) protein and SARS-CoV-2 RNA has been disclosed, but many questions about the phase separation mechanism and the formation of the virion core are still unclear. We summarize the results of this phenomenon and suggest potentially intriguing issues for future research.},
}

*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism/chemistry
Humans
*Amyloid/metabolism/chemistry
*COVID-19/virology/metabolism
Phase Separation

@article {pmid40122207,
year = {2025},
author = {Tavelli, A and Vergori, A and Cingolani, A and Bai, F and Azzini, AM and Hara, GL and Caponcello, MG and Rinaldi, M and Palacios-Baena, ZR and Gatti, M and Maccarrone, G and Tacconelli, E and Antinori, A and Monforte, AD and , and , },
title = {ORCHESTRA Delphi consensus: clinical management of SARS-CoV-2 infection in people with HIV.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology and infection : the official publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases},
volume = {31},
number = {8S},
pages = {S14-S25},
doi = {10.1016/j.cmi.2025.03.006},
pmid = {40122207},
issn = {1469-0691},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *HIV Infections/complications/epidemiology ; Delphi Technique ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The interaction between HIV and COVID-19 resulted in a syndemic that showed an excess burden of disease for people with HIV (PWH). Four years of the COVID-19 pandemic have raised many unsolved questions about the optimal care of COVID-19 in PWH.

METHODS: We performed a study using a three-round Delphi methodology involving a panel of physicians with expertise in HIV and COVID-19 infections. The main aim of the study was to provide recommendations on critical clinical issues of COVID-19 among PWH and to inform physicians and policy-makers for improving care and prevention of COVID-19 in PWH. A total of 27 questions were conceived, focusing on four main areas of interest in the management of COVID-19 in PWH; a panel of 34 experts in HIV and COVID-19 care expressed their level of agreement on each item. Questions that received agreement/disagreement ≥79.4% of panellists were identified and statements were generated accordingly.

RESULTS: Consensus was reached on 19/27 items, resulting in 18 final statements. These statements addressed: (a) risk of COVID-19 progression to severe disease among PWH; (b) COVID-19 diagnostics and laboratory procedures; (c) early treatments with antivirals and/or monoclonal antibodies; (d) use of corticosteroids; (e) COVID-19 preventive strategies.

DISCUSSION: This consensus's study guides infectious diseases physicians in making decisions regarding the care of PWH for COVID-19, where results from the scientific literature are limited or conflicting.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications/diagnosis/epidemiology
*HIV Infections/complications/epidemiology
Delphi Technique
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid39901671,
year = {2025},
author = {Dri, DA and De Cata, M and Carafa, M and De Paola, E and Maione, R and Aita, P and Gramaglia, D},
title = {Critical Analysis of Non-profit Clinical Trials: Three Years of Activity at the Clinical Trials Office.},
journal = {Reviews on recent clinical trials},
volume = {20},
number = {3},
pages = {247-262},
pmid = {39901671},
issn = {1876-1038},
mesh = {*Clinical Trials as Topic/statistics & numerical data/legislation & jurisprudence ; Humans ; *Organizations, Nonprofit/statistics & numerical data ; Italy ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Non-profit clinical trials submitted for authorization over three years to the Clinical Trials Office of the Italian Medicines Agency were reviewed and critically analyzed.

OBJECTIVE: The objectives are to highlight potential trends following the full implementation of Regulation (EU) No. 536/2014 and to reveal the different nuances of non-profit clinical trials, comparing them with the general profile of all clinical trials.

METHODS: Using a multidisciplinary approach, the research navigates public data, official documents and data retrieved from the Italian National Observatory on Clinical Trials and from the European Clinical Trials Information System to reveal shifts in the clinical trials landscape.

RESULTS: A decrease in non-profit applications submitted in the 2020-2022 timeframe is emerging, clearly related to the new regulatory complexities and uncertainties in the adoption of the Clinical Trials Information System platform. Results also show a divergence between nonprofit and overall clinical trials in terms of authorization outcomes, also including studies with a COVID-19 indication. Further comparing non-profit studies with the total number of clinical trials across different characteristics, such as phases, therapeutic areas and study purposes, increases transparency and availability of insight information.

CONCLUSION: Relevant data are provided as a result of the review and analysis of non-profit clinical trials, highlighting specific features. Overall, this critical analysis provides an overview of recent trends and, also promotes insights for further consideration by regulators to adequately support clinical research in a complex and evolving regulatory environment.},
}

*Clinical Trials as Topic/statistics & numerical data/legislation & jurisprudence
Humans
*Organizations, Nonprofit/statistics & numerical data
Italy
COVID-19

@article {pmid39844547,
year = {2025},
author = {Almarzooqi, A and Abdalla, J and Elsadeg, MS and Zamani, N and Ginawi, AAG and Alrawi, Z and Namas, R and Aldhaheri, A and Zayat, A and Elbadawi, F and ALDabal, L and Aljaberi, N and Abdullah, S and Hannawi, S and Alnaqbi, KA and Dhaheri, FA and Hameed, B and Al-Saleh, J},
title = {Infection Screening and Vaccination of Adult and Pediatric Patients with Autoimmune Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases: An Emirati Delphi Consensus.},
journal = {Current rheumatology reviews},
volume = {21},
number = {5},
pages = {545-561},
pmid = {39844547},
issn = {1875-6360},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccination ; *Rheumatic Diseases/complications/immunology ; United Arab Emirates ; *Autoimmune Diseases/complications ; Delphi Technique ; Adult ; Consensus ; Child ; *Mass Screening ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Patients with autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRD) have an increased susceptibility to infections due to their compromised immune systems and the use of immunosuppressive therapies. Infections are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in these patients, emphasizing the need for strategies such as infection control and vaccination to prevent avoidable harm to both patients and healthcare workers. This study aims to provide expert consensus on infection screening and vaccination guidelines for AIIRD patients.

METHODS: A task force of experts from the United Arab Emirates developed a set of statements based on available evidence and expert opinion. The consensus was structured into two main categories: infection screening (9 statements with 23 sub-statements) and vaccination (7 statements).

RESULTS: The infection screening consensus covered nine key areas: tuberculosis (TB) screening (I.1), methods and periodicity of TB screening (I.2), strategies for managing positive IGRA test results (I.3), and infection control for hepatitis B (I.4), hepatitis C (I.5), HIV (I.6), varicella-zoster virus (I.7), and Pneumocystis jirovecii (I.8). The vaccination consensus included recommendations on general vaccination principles (V.0) and specific vaccinations for influenza (V.1), pneumococcal disease (V.2), human papillomavirus (HPV) (V.3), varicella-zoster virus (V.4), tetanus (V.5), and COVID-19 (V.6). Delphi voting showed strong consensus among the task force experts, validating their relevance and applicability for clinicians managing AIIRD patients.

CONCLUSION: This Emirati consensus provides up-to-date guidance and recommendations for clinicians to enhance the care and safety of AIIRD patients.},
}

Humans
*Vaccination
*Rheumatic Diseases/complications/immunology
United Arab Emirates
*Autoimmune Diseases/complications
Delphi Technique
Adult
Consensus
Child
*Mass Screening

@article {pmid39377482,
year = {2026},
author = {Payne, A and Lalonde, M and Vanderspank-Wright, B and Perron, A},
title = {Nursing Professional Identity: A Critical Review of the Concept Amidst COVID-19.},
journal = {ANS. Advances in nursing science},
volume = {49},
number = {1},
pages = {E17-E26},
pmid = {39377482},
issn = {1550-5014},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/nursing/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Nurse's Role/psychology ; Female ; *Social Identification ; Male ; Feminism ; },
abstract = {Heroism is an immutable and quintessential part of what gives rise to the phenomenon that is nurse. This altruistic discourse comes with profound consequences for the nursing profession, particularly in relation to nursing's professional identity. This critical review explores nursing's professional identity against the backdrop of gendered and heroic discourses. Two concept analyses of nursing's professional identity are critically reviewed and juxtaposed with literature on the topic amidst COVID-19. Using poststructural feminism and critical discourse analysis, the review provides valuable insights into the evolutionary significance of the concept and raises key questions around knowledge-power structures and discursive constructions of nurse.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/nursing/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
*Nurse's Role/psychology
Female
*Social Identification
Male
Feminism

@article {pmid39328138,
year = {2025},
author = {Sotoudeheian, MJ and Azarbad, R and Mirahmadi, SM and Pirhayati, M and Moradi, M and Pazoki-Toroudi, H},
title = {Targeting SARS-CoV-2-Induced Cardiovascular Injury: Exploring the Potential of Ponatinib in Mitigating Cardiovascular Necroptosis in COVID-19.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical biotechnology},
volume = {26},
number = {14},
pages = {2222 - 2233},
doi = {10.2174/0113892010324744240916110446},
pmid = {39328138},
issn = {1873-4316},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/complications ; *Imidazoles/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Necroptosis/drug effects ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/drug therapy/virology ; *Pyridazines/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The incidence of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has increased dramatically in recent years, affecting millions of people worldwide. The primary cause of morbidity and mortality in COVID-19 patients is respiratory illness. However, the disease can also significantly impact the cardiovascular system. SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, enters cells using the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE-2) receptor. ACE-2 is a component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and plays a crucial role in regulating various pathological processes. The interaction of the virus with ACE-2 in the myocardium can lead to direct heart damage. Several mechanisms may contribute to myocardial damage in COVID-19 patients, including systemic inflammation, myocardial interstitial fibrosis, interferon-mediated immune response, exaggerated cytokine response, T-cell-mediated damage, coronary plaque instability, and hypoxia. There has been concern that ACE inhibitors (ACE-Is) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) may increase vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 by upregulating ACE-2 expression. However, it may be advisable to continue medications for patients with underlying cardiovascular disorders. The precise mechanisms of cardiomyocyte injury in COVID-19 are not fully understood, but necroptosis appears to play a significant role. Current treatments for cardiac damage in COVID-19 patients include IL-6 blockers and antiplatelet therapy. Ponatinib, a small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor designed using computational and structural approaches, has shown the potential to affect cell death through its impact on tyrosine kinase activity. By reviewing studies related to ponatinib's effects on necroptosis and cell death, we propose a novel approach to potentially reduce the cardiotoxic effects of COVID-19 on cardiomyocytes. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of cardiac injury in COVID-19 and to develop targeted therapies to protect the heart from the devastating effects of this disease.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/complications
*Imidazoles/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Necroptosis/drug effects
*Cardiovascular Diseases/drug therapy/virology
*Pyridazines/therapeutic use/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid41581933,
year = {2026},
author = {Malemnganba, T and Baghel, K and Mehrotra, S and Prajapati, VK},
title = {Unlocking the power of antimicrobial peptides to combat infectious agents.},
journal = {Advances in protein chemistry and structural biology},
volume = {149},
number = {},
pages = {203-244},
doi = {10.1016/bs.apcsb.2024.11.013},
pmid = {41581933},
issn = {1876-1631},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/virology ; Animals ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Bacteria/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The rapid rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has become a major clinical challenge, creating an urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have emerged as promising candidates in the fight against these resistant pathogens. Naturally produced by a wide variety of organisms, AMPs are a crucial part of the innate immune system, offering a broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect against bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites. Unlike traditional antibiotics, AMPs primarily target microbial membranes, which reduces the likelihood of resistance development. Beyond their pathogen-destroying properties, AMPs enhance immune responses, aid in wound healing, and exhibit anticancer properties. Their ability to act swiftly and in synergy with the host immune system offers a distinct advantage over conventional antibiotics. Furthermore, AMPs hold the potential to be developed into novel treatments for infections that have become resistant to all available therapies. However, bacterial resistance mechanisms to AMPs-such as membrane modifications, protease production, and biofilm formation-underscore the complex interactions between hosts and pathogens. Despite these challenges, AMPs present an exciting avenue across multiple sectors, including medicine, agriculture, and food safety. Recent research also highlights their potential in treating viral infections, including COVID-19, showcasing their versatile applications. This chapter discusses the role of AMPs in addressing antibiotic resistance, their mechanisms of action, and their diverse therapeutic applications beyond bacterial infections.},
}

Humans
*Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
COVID-19/virology
Animals
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Bacteria/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid41580734,
year = {2026},
author = {Fang, H and Wang, Q},
title = {The silent epidemic within the pandemic: pathophysiology and prediction of post-COVID-19 diabetes.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12967-026-07717-x},
pmid = {41580734},
issn = {1479-5876},
}

@article {pmid41579008,
year = {2026},
author = {Vera-Cáceres, CH and García-Huguet, M and Gil de Genover, A and Sagula, SD and Martín Muñóz, L and López Domínguez, D},
title = {Dysautonomia after COVID-19 infection: A case report.},
journal = {Neurologia},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {101891},
doi = {10.1016/j.nrleng.2025.101891},
pmid = {41579008},
issn = {2173-5808},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/complications ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Primary Dysautonomias/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Guillain-Barre Syndrome/complications/etiology/diagnosis ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications ; *Pneumonia, Viral/complications ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Betacoronavirus ; Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome/etiology/diagnostic imaging ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Inappropriate ADH Syndrome/etiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This case report discusses a case of a patient who experienced acute autonomic dysfunction during the parainfectious phase of COVID-19, attributed to Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). This is the first well-documented case of such an association.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 64-year-old woman, previously infected with COVID-19, was admitted to the emergency department due to altered mental status. Brain computed tomography (CT) revealed bilateral occipital diffuse hypodensity. Throughout her hospitalization, she exhibited elevated blood pressure necessitating intravenous treatment. The initial brain MRI revealed T2-weighted image hyperintensity at the parietal and occipital levels, indicative of vasogenic edema. These neuroimaging findings were suggestive of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). Euvolemic hyponatremia with concurrent low serum osmolality and high urine osmolality and sodium was observed, indicating a syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Throughout the patient's stay, her level of consciousness exhibited significant improvement. However, she developed ascending symmetrical limb weakness and progressive loss of reflexes, along with a severe motor deficit and gait disturbance, accompanied by arterial blood pressure fluctuations and other signs of autonomic dysfunction. Clinical manifestations, neurophysiological findings, and laboratory results were indicative of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), leading to a conclusive diagnosis of GBS with dysautonomia triggered by a COVID-19 infection.

CONCLUSION: This case reveals the relevance of diagnosing autonomic dysfunction (including PRES) as the initial manifestation of GBS linked to COVID-19 infection and the importance of early diagnosis to prevent potential complications.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/complications
Female
Middle Aged
*Primary Dysautonomias/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Guillain-Barre Syndrome/complications/etiology/diagnosis
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/complications
*Pneumonia, Viral/complications
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
*Betacoronavirus
Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome/etiology/diagnostic imaging
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Inappropriate ADH Syndrome/etiology

@article {pmid41499907,
year = {2026},
author = {Ruan, T and Li, M},
title = {The inverse relationship between post-traumatic growth and job burnout among medical staff during the COVID-19 normalization period: A systematic review.},
journal = {Asian journal of psychiatry},
volume = {116},
number = {},
pages = {104814},
doi = {10.1016/j.ajp.2025.104814},
pmid = {41499907},
issn = {1876-2026},
mesh = {Humans ; *Burnout, Professional/psychology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 ; *Posttraumatic Growth, Psychological ; *Medical Staff/psychology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To synthesize empirical evidence on the association between post-traumatic growth (PTG) and job burnout among medical staff across varied healthcare settings during the COVID-19 normalization period (2022 onward).

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a database indexing over 126 million records was searched, yielding 499 records for screening, and 11 studies that measured both PTG and burnout in active healthcare professionals. Data on study design, setting, instruments, sample characteristics, and key findings were extracted.

RESULTS: Nine quantitative (seven cross-sectional, one longitudinal, one unspecified design) and two qualitative studies met inclusion criteria, encompassing nurses, physicians, psychiatrists, paramedics, and medical rescuers in eight countries. Standardized instruments (e.g., Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory variants; Maslach Burnout Inventory variants) were most common. Eight studies reported a significant inverse correlation between PTG and burnout (e.g., odds ratio= 0.653, 95 % CI= 0.525-0.812, p < 0.001; r = -0.276, p = 0.034). Five studies identified PTG as a mediator or moderator of stress-burnout pathways. Qualitative analyses described a trajectory from acute stress through cognitive restructuring to growth, with burnout linked to unresolved trauma.

CONCLUSIONS: Consistent evidence indicates that higher PTG protects against burnout in medical staff post-pandemic peak. Psychological resources-resilience, self-compassion, adaptive coping, meaning in work, and job satisfaction-emerge as key mediators or moderators. Interventions fostering PTG and its correlates may mitigate burnout in healthcare workers.},
}

Humans
*Burnout, Professional/psychology/epidemiology
*COVID-19
*Posttraumatic Growth, Psychological
*Medical Staff/psychology

@article {pmid41578455,
year = {2026},
author = {Ghoshal, UC and Singh, R and Goenka, MK},
title = {Post-Coronavirus Disease (COVID)-19 Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What We've Learned So Far.},
journal = {Neurogastroenterology and motility},
volume = {38},
number = {1},
pages = {e70250},
doi = {10.1111/nmo.70250},
pmid = {41578455},
issn = {1365-2982},
mesh = {Humans ; *Irritable Bowel Syndrome/epidemiology/etiology/physiopathology/therapy ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Brain-Gut Axis/physiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has unveiled a hidden epidemic of disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs), notably post-infection irritable bowel syndrome (PI-IBS), driven by SARS-CoV-2 GI tropism and pandemic stressors.

PURPOSE: This review synthesizes and critically appraises current evidence on the prevalence, clinical spectrum, and predictors of post-COVID-19 IBS, integrating mechanistic insights. Topics discussed in this review will advance understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms, identify therapeutic targets, inform phenotype-tailored management and clinical care, and outline research priorities for post-COVID-19 IBS.

METHODS: A narrative review was performed by the authors.

KEY RESULTS: Recent evidence indicates that approximately 7.2% of individuals develop IBS after SARS-CoV-2 infection, with 2.6-fold higher odds vs. non-infected controls. At the population level, a nationally representative U.S. survey (> 160,000 adults) showed a pandemic-era surge in IBS prevalence (predominantly IBS-M) and a modest increase in chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), while other Rome IV DGBIs remained stable. Mechanisms are multifactorial, involving ACE2-linked epithelial/neuromuscular effects, persistent low-grade inflammation, microbiota dysbiosis with reduced short-chain fatty acids, altered serotonin signaling, barrier dysfunction, and psychosocial stress acting along the gut-brain axis. Emerging data indicate dyspnea and depression further mediate the COVID-19-to-IBS pathway, underscoring biopsychosocial endotypes.

CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES: This review indicates that following infection with SARS-CoV-2, DGBI, particularly IBS, occurs in 7.2% patients on follow-up. Clinically, a positive diagnosis framework and phenotype-tailored, multidisciplinary care are recommended. Future studies on post-infection IBS including post-COVID-19 IBS should be undertaken using upcoming Rome V criteria, controlling for confounding factors, and defining mechanistic endotypes to unlock precision therapies.},
}

Humans
*Irritable Bowel Syndrome/epidemiology/etiology/physiopathology/therapy
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Brain-Gut Axis/physiology

@article {pmid41578296,
year = {2026},
author = {Rubini, E and Trentin, M and Maffi, P and Aammar, B and Gaievskyi, S and Bahattab, A and Lamine, H and Kordi-Kaiser, M and Staub, K and Ragazzoni, L},
title = {Challenges in healthcare facilities' response to past outbreaks: a systematic review of reviews.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12913-025-13934-9},
pmid = {41578296},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {101168124//HORIZON EUROPE Framework Programme/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41577930,
year = {2026},
author = {Ochoa-Gutierrez, V and Saiko, G},
title = {Pulse Oximeters: Accuracy and Artifacts.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1498},
number = {},
pages = {277-283},
pmid = {41577930},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Oximetry/instrumentation/methods/standards ; *Artifacts ; *COVID-19/blood/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Skin Pigmentation ; Calibration ; Oxygen Saturation ; *Oxygen/blood ; Reproducibility of Results ; },
abstract = {Oximetry is used to quantify the presence of oxygen in human blood within soft tissues of the human body. Among multiple implementations of this technology, pulsatile oxygen saturation (SpO2) is a core medical technology and is being rapidly adopted in consumer health. However, despite its long history of clinical use, recent findings indicate that the accuracy of pulse oximetry may be affected by various factors and biases. For example, the COVID-19 pandemic showed that pulse oximeters exhibited flaws in accuracy due to the skin pigmentation of patients with darker skin. Thus, the future of this technology, particularly in consumer health devices, needs to be built on foundations that account for such biases. This chapter reviews the principles of pulse oximetry, sources of its artifacts, calibration methods, and the factors that may cause inaccuracy in pulse oximeters, particularly pertinent to two-wavelength pulse oximetry. Drawing upon recent research and clinical insights, we review the multifaceted nature of pulse oximetry biases, including motion artifacts, skin pigmentation, body mass index, environmental variables, device calibration, and nail polish, among others.},
}

Humans
*Oximetry/instrumentation/methods/standards
*Artifacts
*COVID-19/blood/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Skin Pigmentation
Calibration
Oxygen Saturation
*Oxygen/blood
Reproducibility of Results

@article {pmid41577421,
year = {2026},
author = {Nakimuli-Mpungu, E and Arango, C and Dandona, R and Ford, T and John, A and Jordan, A and Cherop, R and Kola, L and López-Jaramillo, C and Schuster, AM and Knapp, M and Walbaum, M and Opiepie, K and Musoro, F and White, LA and Martsenkovskyi, D and Michael, BD and O'Connor, R and , and Jones, PB},
title = {Policy and public health implications for mental health after the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {The lancet. Psychiatry},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {162-174},
doi = {10.1016/S2215-0366(25)00358-X},
pmid = {41577421},
issn = {2215-0374},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Public Health ; *Health Policy ; *Mental Health ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic revealed essential weaknesses in mental health systems and intensified existing inequities, highlighting the need for a comprehensive assessment of policy responses and strategies for future resilience. Guided by four questions relating to system adaptations, approaches to inequities, financing strategies, and evidence gaps, we synthesised evidence from a structured literature search (2020-24), expert consultation, and lived experience. We found that public health systems embedded infodemic management, expanded digital services, and mobilised community workforces, but responses varied in equity and effectiveness. Although gender, age, socioeconomic, and racial disparities worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, social protection, gender-sensitive policies, school-based services, and culturally adapted interventions showed promise. High-income countries buffered shocks with welfare measures while low-income and middle-income countries faced sharp fiscal constraints. Few studies evaluated cost-effectiveness or equity impacts of psychosocial interventions. Building resilient, equitable mental health systems requires integrated policies spanning communication, digital and community care, gender-responsive and youth-responsive strategies, and sustainable financing, alongside investment in longitudinal and cross-national research.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Public Health
*Health Policy
*Mental Health
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41577420,
year = {2026},
author = {Schuster, AM and Alwan, NA and Callard, F and Chen, EYH and Gilbody, S and Graham, BM and Hatch, SL and Jones, E and Jordan, A and Knapp, M and López-Jaramillo, C and Nakimuli-Mpungu, E and Pathare, S and Ressler, KJ and Wessely, S and White, LA and , and Jones, PB},
title = {The implications of the COVID-19 pandemic for clinical mental health care.},
journal = {The lancet. Psychiatry},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {140-161},
doi = {10.1016/S2215-0366(25)00247-0},
pmid = {41577420},
issn = {2215-0374},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Mental Health ; },
abstract = {A Position Paper published in The Lancet Psychiatry in 2020 suggested an agenda for research about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health, following which an interdisciplinary Lancet Psychiatry standing commission was established in 2022 to examine the emerging evidence and refine recommendations for more research. In this first Series paper from the standing commission, we focus on changes in the delivery of clinical mental health care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The second paper in the Series focuses on public mental health and policy perspectives, and the third will address neuropsychiatric consequences of infection by SARS-CoV-2. Evidence from high-quality longitudinal studies with pre-pandemic baseline data, controlled intervention trials, or systematic reviews took time to accrue. During the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, symptoms of anxiety and depression became more prevalent, and many mental health services were compromised by pandemic-related factors; however, whether the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated pre-existing long-term trends of increasing incidence of mental health disorders, especially in children and adolescents, is unclear. Little research has been done in low-income and middle-income countries, or regarding post-COVID-19 condition (also known as long COVID), which emerged as a multisystem condition with mental health implications. Vulnerable populations, including socioeconomically disadvantaged and minoritised groups, faced disproportionate mental health impacts and limited access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting systemic, pre-pandemic inequalities. Bold implementation of existing evidence-based mental health support for vulnerable communities, ambitious trials of novel interventions, and systematic pooling of rapidly accumulating evidence about best healh care should be priorities in future pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
*Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Mental Health

@article {pmid41577399,
year = {2026},
author = {José Álvarez García, F and Iofrío de Arce, A and Álvarez Aldeán, J and Garrote Llanos, E and López Granados, L and Navarro Gómez, ML and Pineda Solas, V and Rivero Calle, I and Ruiz-Contreras, J and Salamanca de la Cueva, I and Serrano Marchuet, P and , },
title = {Vaccination and immunization schedule of the Pediatric Spanish Association: 2026 recommendations.},
journal = {Anales de pediatria},
volume = {104},
number = {1},
pages = {504051},
doi = {10.1016/j.anpede.2025.504051},
pmid = {41577399},
issn = {2341-2879},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunization Schedule ; Spain ; *Vaccination/standards ; Infant ; Adolescent ; Child ; Female ; Child, Preschool ; Pregnancy ; Pediatrics ; Infant, Newborn ; },
abstract = {The 2026 Vaccination and Immunization Schedule recommended by the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (AEP) for children, adolescents and pregnant women residing in Spain includes the following new features: introduction of routine vaccination against hepatitis A with a single-dose schedule at 12-15 months; universal vaccination against influenza in children from 6 months and adolescents up to 17 years of age; catch-up vaccination and reengagement campaigns added to the routine immunization schedule and a new table featuring the vaccinations recommended for specific chronic diseases or risk conditions. The following recommendations from the 2025 schedule, among others, are maintained: immunization with nirsevimab in infants younger than 6 months, or up to 12 months in the case of preterm infants born before 35 weeks of gestation and up to 24 months in children with risk factors; routine vaccination against meningococcal disease (MenB in infancy [starting at 2 months] and at 12 years, plus booster doses for those vaccinated in childhood with 4CMenB; MenACWY at 4 months, 12 months and 12 years); advancing the second doses of MMR and varicella vaccines to 24 months and the Tdap at 10-12 years; and vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 for children older than 6 months with risk factors. During pregnancy, vaccination with Tdap and against influenza and COVID-19 is indicated. Vaccination against RSV in pregnant women is available, although not funded, as it is not currently approved as a public health strategy.},
}

Humans
*Immunization Schedule
Spain
*Vaccination/standards
Infant
Adolescent
Child
Female
Child, Preschool
Pregnancy
Pediatrics
Infant, Newborn

@article {pmid41577338,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, Z and Yan, H and Wang, S and Liu, Y and Luo, Y and Tang, Y and Zhang, T},
title = {Moral injury in nurses during COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Nursing ethics},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {9697330251407217},
doi = {10.1177/09697330251407217},
pmid = {41577338},
issn = {1477-0989},
abstract = {BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges for nurses, including resource shortages, heavier workloads, and ethical decision-making pressures, putting them at high risk for moral injury. This threatens their physical and mental health, job stability, and the quality of care.AimThe aim was to systematically assess the level of moral injury among nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsA comprehensive search was conducted on 12 databases (PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, ProQuest, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, PsycINFO, CBM, CNKI, VIP, WanFang Data) for cross-sectional studies published up to 20 July 2025, that reported the level of moral injury among nurses using the Moral Injury Symptoms Scale-Health Professionals Version. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality. The pooled mean score was calculated using random-effects or fixed-effects models, with subgroup analysis to explore heterogeneity.Ethical considerationsEthical approval was not required as the review synthesized publicly available data.ResultsThis study included 16 articles, involving 5824 participants. The meta-analysis showed that the pooled mean total MISS-HP score for nurses was 42.12 (95% CI: 40.70-43.53). Among the dimensions, the pooled mean score for Loss of religion/spiritual faith was the highest at 5.68 (95% CI: 4.61-6.74), while the pooled mean score for religious struggles was the lowest at 2.26 (95% CI: 1.13-3.40). Subgroup analysis results indicated significant differences in moral injury levels among nurses based on Survey year and department (p < .001).ConclusionsUnder the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses experienced moderate to high levels of moral injury, particularly during the early stages of the pandemic in 2020, with emergency department nurses being most affected. To support nurses' well-being and mental health, healthcare institutions should strengthen ethical support systems, improve management, and consider the role of religion/spiritual faith in alleviating moral injury.},
}

@article {pmid41576591,
year = {2026},
author = {Ali, M and Younis, AB and Duru, CI and Sherchan, SP},
title = {A review of AI/ML approaches in wastewater surveillance advancement.},
journal = {The Science of the total environment},
volume = {1015},
number = {},
pages = {181364},
doi = {10.1016/j.scitotenv.2026.181364},
pmid = {41576591},
issn = {1879-1026},
abstract = {Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has emerged as a powerful tool for early detection and monitoring of infectious diseases, particularly during pandemics such as COVID-19. This study systematically evaluates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models in WBE over the past five years, focusing on their effectiveness in pathogen detection and disease trend forecasting. Various supervised, unsupervised, deep learning, and time-series models were compared based on their predictive accuracy, scalability, interpretability, computational demands, and real-time feasibility. Comparative analysis showed that Random Forest (RF) achieved R[2] values of 0.80 and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) 0.54 for COVID-19 trend forecasting, outperforming linear regression. Support Vector Machines (SVM) improved pathogen classification accuracy by ∼20% compared with traditional analytical techniques. Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) estimated pathogen prevalence with R = 0.81-0.92 and mean squared, while Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks achieved R[2] ≈ 0.81 (test) and 0.94 (train) for multi-community forecasting. Time-series machine learning models (TSML) frameworks consistently produced lower RMSE and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) values than ARIMAX models, confirming their real-time prediction power. Unsupervised models like K-means clustering supported outbreak pattern identification, when labeled data were limited. Additionally, a decision-support framework was proposed to guide model selection based on prediction objectives, data type, and temporal dependencies. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating hybrid modeling approaches and environmental metadata to enhance WBE systems, and they offer a foundation for real-time, adaptive surveillance strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41573792,
year = {2025},
author = {Kiggundu, R and Waswa, JP and Mwanja, H and Hope, M and Kambugu, A and Kakooza, F and Byonanebye, DM},
title = {Leveraging disease outbreak news to strengthen the global response to antimicrobial resistance: a call for action.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1710596},
pmid = {41573792},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; *Global Health ; World Health Organization ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Drug Resistance, Microbial ; Public Health ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health threat, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) bearing the greatest burden as healthcare facilities become breeding grounds for resistant pathogens, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and straining of already limited resources. The World Health Organization's Disease Outbreak News (DONs) has proven invaluable for early warnings and coordinated responses to infectious disease outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19, yet AMR events remain largely absent from this system, leading to under-detection, limited global visibility, and ineffective interventions. In this paper, we review the historical evolution of DONs, its supporting frameworks, and the dynamics of AMR outbreaks in LMIC healthcare settings to explore how DONs could be adapted for AMR. We recommend standardizing AMR outbreaks reporting, integrating DONs into response efforts, linking AMR surveillance to DONs workflows, and expanding the definition of Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC) to include high-morbidity AMR events, steps that would elevate AMR from a "silent pandemic" to a visible priority.},
}

Humans
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
*Global Health
World Health Organization
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Drug Resistance, Microbial
Public Health

@article {pmid41573583,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, S and Zhao, Z and Li, Y and Tan, Y and Tian, H and Xie, F},
title = {When viral infections meet the anti-MDA5 antibody-positive dermatomyositis.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1649489},
pmid = {41573583},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dermatomyositis/immunology ; *Interferon-Induced Helicase, IFIH1/immunology ; *Autoantibodies/immunology/blood ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Lung Diseases, Interstitial/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/complications ; },
abstract = {Anti-melanoma differentiation-related gene 5 (MDA5) antibody-positive dermatomyositis (anti-MDA5[+] DM) is recognized as a distinct subtype of dermatomyositis, characterized by its frequent association with interstitial lung disease (ILD), particularly rapidly progressive ILD (RP-ILD), which is associated with a poor prognosis and high mortality. MDA5 functions as a cytoplasmic sensor for viral double-stranded RNA. The expression level of anti-MDA5 antibodies is positively correlated with disease severity. Notably, anti-MDA5 antibodies have been detected in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. While the mechanisms underlying the generation of anti-MDA5 antibodies and their pathogenic role remain incompletely understood, accumulating data support the hypothesis that viral infections may trigger the production of these antibodies. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the interplay between anti-MDA5 antibodies and viral infections in patients with anti-MDA5[+] dermatomyositis (DM), with a focus on the potential mechanisms by which viral infections induce autoantibody formation.},
}

Humans
*Dermatomyositis/immunology
*Interferon-Induced Helicase, IFIH1/immunology
*Autoantibodies/immunology/blood
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Lung Diseases, Interstitial/immunology
*Virus Diseases/immunology/complications

@article {pmid41573565,
year = {2025},
author = {Chiyyeadu, A and Khan, B and Ehrhardt, K and Büning, H and Morgan, M and Schambach, A},
title = {Therapeutic antibody delivery: vector tools to boost efficacy and affordability.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1714390},
pmid = {41573565},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Genetic Vectors/genetics ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/therapy ; *Genetic Therapy/methods ; Animals ; *Gene Transfer Techniques ; Dependovirus/genetics ; },
abstract = {Antibody (Ab)-based therapeutics have become powerful tools across diverse disease areas, with advances in bioengineering giving rise to next-generation molecules designed to outperform conventional Abs. Yet, large-scale production and purification of such complex proteins remain costly and can restrict patient access. A promising alternative is to improve in vivo expression capabilities, which will reduce manufacturing burdens and improve safety and tolerability. Multiple gene delivery platforms - ranging from mRNA and viral vectors to engineered cell therapies - have matured considerably, as a direct result of years of clinical experience and growing regulatory confidence. The rapid deployment of mRNA vaccines against SARS-CoV-2, the clinical success of adeno-associated virus (AAV)- and lentiviral-based interventions, and the approval of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies highlight the potential of these technologies to transform how we deliver Ab therapeutics. While these approaches hold the promise to treat genetic aberrations in patients, they may also contribute considerably to advancing conventional Ab therapeutics against viral infections and other diseases through local persistence of the proteins. Looking forward, in situ expression may confer even more benefits for engineered Ab-like molecules, thereby compensating for possibly shorter half-lives and overcoming challenges in in vitro production and purification. Therefore, in this review, we critically evaluate how these established and emerging gene therapy platforms can be harnessed to expand access, and discuss possibilities to improve in situ availability through the choice of transient or stable expression systems to increase the efficacy of Abs and other therapeutic proteins. Furthermore, we explore the current landscape of technological advancements, identify key translational challenges, and project future directions for optimizing these approaches towards widely applicable clinical interventions.},
}

Humans
*Genetic Vectors/genetics
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/therapy
*Genetic Therapy/methods
Animals
*Gene Transfer Techniques
Dependovirus/genetics

@article {pmid41573445,
year = {2025},
author = {Verma, M and Maan, HS and Konatam, S and Verma, Y and Kumar, R and Chaurasia, D and Dave, L and Sharma, S},
title = {Geographical and Ecological Drivers of Zoonotic Viral Spillover: A Review of Emerging and Re-emerging Outbreaks.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {17},
number = {12},
pages = {e99820},
pmid = {41573445},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Over the past two decades, outbreaks of zoonotic viruses have become increasingly frequent and severe, posing substantial threats to public health systems and the global economy. The viruses responsible for these outbreaks, such as SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, Zika, Ebola, Nipah, avian influenza, and, most recently, SARS-CoV-2, typically originate in wildlife, highlighting the complex relationship between ecological systems and human activities. Human-wildlife interactions have markedly increased due to disruptions in environmental and geographic boundaries, primarily driven by urbanization, deforestation, intensified agricultural practices, and climate change. These factors contribute to an environment that facilitates zoonotic transmission spillover. This narrative review summarizes current research on the ecological, geographic, and human factors influencing zoonotic virus transmissions. It emphasizes how these viruses adapt to human hosts and cross species barriers via direct contact, vector-borne transmission, intermediate carriers, and environmental contamination. Moreover, the review discusses how the genomic plasticity of viruses enhances their transmissibility and facilitates adaptation to new hosts, thereby increasing the risk of epidemics and pandemics. The review further underscores the importance of ecological boundaries in mitigating spillover events and advocates for a One Health approach that integrates human, animal, and environmental health. This approach is essential for predicting, detecting, and preventing future outbreaks. In conclusion, the review emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary research, proactive surveillance, habitat preservation, and policy interventions that address the underlying ecological factors contributing to zoonotic outbreaks. Restoring ecological barriers and implementing sustainable practices to minimize the interaction between wildlife and humans, while bolstering global biosecurity, are essential measures to mitigate the risk of future pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid41573202,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, Y and Chen, Z and Sun, L and Guo, W},
title = {An overview of hypopituitarism's causes.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1695833},
pmid = {41573202},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hypopituitarism/etiology/diagnosis/therapy ; Pituitary Neoplasms/complications ; COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The widespread application of tumor therapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and the emergence of new infectious diseases such as COVID-19 are promoting the continued expansion of the cause spectrum of hypopituitarism, making its scope significantly beyond traditional causes such as pituitary tumors and craniocerebral trauma. Faced with this evolution, a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of its etiology has become a top priority, which has also put forward new requirements for clinical diagnosis and differential diagnosis. This review aims to systematically sort out and deeply explore the etiology and pathogenesis of this disease. The content not only covers traditional factors such as pituitary tumors, radiation injury, and pituitary surgery, but also the latest progress in emerging fields such as immunotherapy, new infections, and autoimmunity. It aims to provide reliable reference for clinicians' diagnosis and treatment practice and lay a theoretical foundation for future research in this field.},
}

Humans
*Hypopituitarism/etiology/diagnosis/therapy
Pituitary Neoplasms/complications
COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41572466,
year = {2026},
author = {Kothandan, SV and Basu, S and Singh, S},
title = {Dry Eye Disease After Ocular or Systemic Infection: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Eye & contact lens},
volume = {52},
number = {2},
pages = {83-91},
doi = {10.1097/ICL.0000000000001236},
pmid = {41572466},
issn = {1542-233X},
support = {N/A//Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Dry Eye Syndromes/etiology/diagnosis ; COVID-19/complications ; *Eye Infections/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Tears/metabolism ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To study the characteristics of dry eye disease (DED) secondary to ocular or systemic infections.

METHODS: PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed for DED development after systemic and ocular infections. The severity of DED symptoms and signs, type of infection, and management outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS: Of the 28 included studies, eight were related to HIV infection, five had hepatitis C, four to COVID-19, and 11 studies had DED secondary to herpes keratitis, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, viral conjunctivitis, Chlamydia infection, Mycobacterium leprae, and Chikungunya infections. The organisms implicated in conjunctivitis associated with DED were Coxsackie A24virus, Staphylococcus, and Mycoplasma. There were no immunocompromised patients in any of the studies except HIV. Nine studies established DED diagnosis based on symptoms alone, seven on signs alone, and 12 on symptoms and signs (at least abnormal Schirmer or tear break-up time, but not DEWS II criteria). The severity of DED symptoms was usually mild. HIV and hepatitis C showed no difference in tear volume and stability between cases and healthy controls. Advanced stages of hepatitis (stage 4 to stage 6) showed worse tear film parameters than the initial stages. Tear volume and stability were affected in 1/5th of patients post-COVID-19. Absolute tear deficiency (zero Schirmer) was reported in two patients after Epstein-Barr virus and HIV infection that improved with intravenous acyclovir, cyclosporin A, and prednisolone in EBV infection only. Very few studies reported the management of postinfectious DED with artificial tears and had fair outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Bacterial and viral infections can have DED as sequelae, although the infectious agent has not been isolated from the ocular surface in reported studies. DED is usually mild to moderate symptomatically, and tear film parameter levels do not meet DEWS II diagnostic criteria. The nonuniformity in reporting disease duration, tear film changes, and DED symptoms makes it difficult to understand the role of infection in causing DED.},
}

Humans
*Dry Eye Syndromes/etiology/diagnosis
COVID-19/complications
*Eye Infections/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Tears/metabolism

@article {pmid41569821,
year = {2026},
author = {Hesketh, KR and Smith, AD and Amichay, Y and van Sluijs, EMF},
title = {Correlates of Parental Physical Activity: A Quantitative Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of physical activity & health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-21},
doi = {10.1123/jpah.2025-0604},
pmid = {41569821},
issn = {1543-5474},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite the benefits of physical activity (PA), evidence suggests around 25% of adults fail to meet PA guidelines, parents, and mothers in particular, and engage in less PA on average than their childless peers. This review sought to determine the correlates of parental PA, stratifying evidence by self-report and device-based measures.

METHODS: Quantitative studies (cross-sectional and longitudinal) investigating associations between correlates and parental PA (ie, parents with children aged 0-18 y) were identified across 4 databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Scopus) up to October 2024. Correlates (assessed in 3 or more studies) and direction of associations were extracted, described, and synthesized narratively according to the socioecological model (individual, interpersonal, organizational, environmental, societal).

RESULTS: Of 4632 studies identified, 269 full texts were assessed and 105 studies included in the review. A total of 117 correlates were identified across all studies (103 for self-report measures, 55 for device-based). 53 correlates were assessed in 3/+ independent associations (n = 51 self-report, n = 14 device, n = 12 both). Consistently, partner PA was positively associated with parent PA regardless of measure used. Child PA, pet ownership, and environmental aesthetics were positively associated with (mothers') PA, whereas car ownership was negatively associated with PA. Only one policy-level factor (COVID-19 restrictions) was assessed, being negatively associated with parental PA.

CONCLUSIONS: Family-based correlates of PA were positively associated with parental PA, suggesting these may support wider family engagement in PA. Evidence from fathers and from low- and middle-income countries is needed to gain a better understanding of parental PA in these groups.},
}

@article {pmid41569498,
year = {2026},
author = {Killassy, N and Arbuthnot, P and Maepa, MB},
title = {Structural mimics of SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Infection},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41569498},
issn = {1439-0973},
abstract = {Since its first detection in 2019, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has infected approximately 778 million people and claimed 7.1 million lives globally. A deeper understanding of the biology of SARS-CoV-2 was instrumental in facilitating the development of protective vaccines and new therapeutics, as well as evaluating the impact of drug re-purposing to limit the pandemic. To date, approximately 13.64 billion vaccine doses have been administered; with approximately 67% of the global population having completed their primary series of COVID-19 vaccinations. The FDA has authorised the use of several repurposed drugs to combat the disease and while these developments have been instrumental in curbing the pandemic, the approved therapies have shown poor efficacy in cases of severe disease. Furthermore, several vaccine candidates received FDA approval following clinical trials where they proved to be both safe and efficacious. These vaccines were sanctioned for emergency roll-out to the global population, conferring herd immunity and reducing both infections and related mortalities. However, these vaccines are not without flaws and are limited by short term immune responses and poor efficacy against emerging variants, which has resulted in slip-through infections. Hence, efforts to develop potent drugs and vaccines are continuing. In these efforts, physiologically relevant models of SARS-CoV-2 infection are critical. This review describes available SARS-CoV-2 particle mimics, their contribution to COVID-19 research and the development of new vaccines and therapies.},
}

@article {pmid41569327,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Shbailat, SA and Alqato, S and Alkhalaileh, AY and Suleiman, R and Zein Eddin, S and Karajeh, A and Al-Shbeilat, RG and Hussein, R and Hatamleh, H and Jaradat, JH and Alsagarat, K and Asfour, LK},
title = {Risk Factors and Outcomes of Immunoglobulin A Vasculitis in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and vice versa: A Systematic Review of the current literature.},
journal = {Current gastroenterology reports},
volume = {28},
number = {1},
pages = {6},
pmid = {41569327},
issn = {1534-312X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/complications/immunology/drug therapy ; Risk Factors ; COVID-19 ; *IgA Vasculitis/immunology/etiology/epidemiology ; *Immunoglobulin A/immunology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This systematic review sought to thoroughly investigate the relationship between Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and Immunoglobulin A Vasculitis (IgAV), pinpointing both factors that increase risk and those that provide protection, laying the groundwork for future studies on specific treatments approaches to enhance the wellbeing of patients with IgAV and / or IBD.

RECENT FINDINGS: There is a new and quickly expanding body of literature on this subject, indicating a rising interest in it. Recent research has sought to investigate the connection between newly emerged viruses, such as COVID-19, or medications like Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (anti-TNF-α), and the development, progression, and treatment approaches of IgAV in IBD patients, and vice versa. Certain recent research is centered on a particular age groups or the condition of the initial illness. IgAV has been observed for numerous years following the diagnosis of IBD, displaying manifestations in the skin, joints, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. IBD encompassing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and IgAV share immunological overlaps via dysregulated IgA production, genetic loci like HLA-DQA1/DQB1, and environmental triggers such as infections amid gut dysbiosis. IgAV often emerges as an IBD sequela or anti-TNF-α therapy complication, with TNF blockade potentially disrupting B-cell maturation, fostering Gd-IgA1 complexes, and neutrophil-driven inflammation. (31) studies encompassing (83) patients with co-occurring IBD and IgAV, predominantly males (60.2%) and younger individuals with confirmed dual diagnoses (95.2%). Compared to UC, more severe CD phenotypes and extended disease duration correlate with increased IgAV risk. Anti-TNF inhibitors appear to substantially contribute to IgAV onset in IBD patients. Most affected individuals develop IBD initially, followed by IgAV, whereas only a minority experience IBD subsequent to IgAV diagnosis. Ceasing anti-TNF-α therapy post-IgAV diagnosis may lead to IgAV resolution but could also trigger disease recurrence. The study's limited sample size has hindered the researchers from reaching conclusions via a meta-analysis. Additionally, the criteria utilized for IBD diagnosis have displayed inconsistency across all studies. Patients with IBD are at higher risk of developing IgAV, thus a high level of suspicion and prompt diagnostic assessment are crucial. To date, there have been no previous systematic reviews or meta-analyses highlighting a link between IgAV and IBD. Therefore, this systematic review is a pivotal endeavor to elucidate the complex relationship between these conditions, shaping future research in this area.},
}

Humans
*Inflammatory Bowel Diseases/complications/immunology/drug therapy
Risk Factors
COVID-19
*IgA Vasculitis/immunology/etiology/epidemiology
*Immunoglobulin A/immunology

@article {pmid41569003,
year = {2026},
author = {Chopra, I and Yang, J and Yehoshua, A and Mendoza, CF and Di Fusco, M},
title = {Incorporating underreporting of epidemiological burden in COVID-19 models: a targeted literature review.},
journal = {Journal of medical economics},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {193-212},
doi = {10.1080/13696998.2026.2613591},
pmid = {41569003},
issn = {1941-837X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/economics/mortality ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data/economics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cost of Illness ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Underreporting of infections, hospitalizations, and deaths can pose challenges to accurately estimating the true burden of COVID-19. Consequently, health burden assessments and economic evaluations may underestimate the public health impact of interventions such as vaccination.

METHODS: This targeted literature review summarized economic evaluations of COVID-19 that reported having adjusted for underreporting of epidemiological burden. Searches were performed in PubMed through 08/31/2025 with no geographic restrictions. Key study characteristics extracted: country, time period, population, parameters adjusted for underreporting, and the adjustment multipliers used. A high-level quality assessment of evidence was conducted, building on Drummond checklist and CHEERS. Given the qualitative nature of the question and the expected heterogeneity in study designs, the results were summarized qualitatively.

RESULTS: A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 14 (70%) reported numerical adjustment factors, and the remaining 30% did not report a numerical factor. The studies covered diverse geographic regions and time frames, with adjustments applied to parameters such as infections, hospitalizations, and mortality. The study quality was moderate to high. The multipliers used ranged widely across studies: 1 to 5 for mortality, 1 to 5 for hospitalizations, and 1 to 10 for infections, where a value higher than 1.0 reflects an adjustment factor for underreporting. The methodologies used to estimate underreporting varied, including comparisons to excess mortality data, Monte Carlo simulations, and validation against external datasets.

LIMITATIONS: Most studies used pandemic time horizons.

CONCLUSIONS: This review identified 14 modelling studies reporting numerical adjustment factors. The studies used diverse approaches and adjustment factors, reflecting variability in data availability and estimation methods. Recognizing and standardizing these adjustments is crucial for improving the accuracy and comparability of health economic analyses that inform policy decisions. Further research could refine underreporting estimates and assess their impact on economic model outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/economics/mortality
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data/economics
SARS-CoV-2
*Cost of Illness

@article {pmid41568029,
year = {2025},
author = {Shao, F and Zhu, X and Yi, M and Gao, H and Wu, J and Fang, R and Xie, Y and Han, J and Lu, H},
title = {TLR agonists as adjuvants for viral vaccines: mechanisms, applications, and future directions.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1740572},
pmid = {41568029},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a pivotal role in the innate immune system by recognizing pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), thereby initiating immune responses against viral infections. TLR agonists have emerged as promising adjuvants to enhance the efficacy of viral vaccines by modulating immune responses, improving antigen presentation, and promoting both humoral and cellular immunity. This review comprehensively summarizes the classification, signaling mechanisms, and immunomodulatory functions of cell-surface and intracellular TLRs. It further discusses the application of TLR agonists as adjuvants in vaccines against major viruses, including HBV, HCV, HIV, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and flaviviruses. Key findings from preclinical and clinical studies highlight the potential of TLR agonists to overcome immune tolerance, enhance vaccine immunogenicity, and provide broad-spectrum protection. Finally, it points toward the "integration of precision adjuvants with novel vaccine platforms" as a core future direction, laying a theoretical and applied foundation for TLR agonists to become the next generation of viral vaccine adjuvants.},
}

@article {pmid41567589,
year = {2026},
author = {Safi, D and El Rassi, C and Abou Mansour, M and Sleem, B and El Rassi, I and Arabi, M},
title = {Kawasaki Disease Versus Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: Exploring the Complexities of Pediatric Cardiac Inflammatory Disorders.},
journal = {Sage open pediatrics},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {30502225251411149},
pmid = {41567589},
issn = {3050-2225},
abstract = {Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) are both pediatric inflammatory conditions that pose significant challenges in diagnosis and management due to their overlapping clinical features and distinct pathophysiological profiles. KD is a well-established acute vasculitis that primarily affects children under 5. In contrast, MIS-C is a recently identified condition associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, typically affecting older children and adolescents. Reported mortality for MIS-C remains below 2%, compared with less than 0.1% for KD, although both can result in significant cardiac morbidity if untreated. This review highlights the critical differences between KD and MIS-C, including their genetic underpinnings, clinical manifestations, and responses to treatment. While KD has a well-established treatment protocol involving intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin, MIS-C treatment is still evolving. The manuscript underscores the importance of distinguishing between these conditions for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41567412,
year = {2026},
author = {Ssebibubbu, S and Ssekamwa, F and Muhumuza, N and Mulumba, M},
title = {Reforming Uganda's digital health data systems: A policy analysis for inclusive, equitable, and decolonised data governance.},
journal = {Digital health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {20552076251408532},
pmid = {41567412},
issn = {2055-2076},
abstract = {Uganda has rapidly digitised many health services, but persistent challenges in data governance - including fragmented systems, variable data quality, and the exclusion of vulnerable populations - hinder effective care and equity. This analysis reviews recent developments (2023-2025) in Uganda's digital health policy and practice, drawing on strategy documents, conference reports, and stakeholder input. It highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated innovation while exposing systemic weaknesses. For example, the Ministry of Health's (MoH) 2023 strategy explicitly targets data accessibility and integration, and the 2024 guidelines standardise management across the sector. Yet, execution gaps remain due to resource constraints and organisational silos. This article proposes an inclusive data governance framework with five pillars (inclusive governance, equity, interoperability, privacy, and capacity) and recommends concrete actions. By adopting these reforms, Uganda can transform its digital health systems into people-centred, equitable platforms that build trust, protect rights, and advance universal health coverage.},
}