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Bibliography on: covid-19

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ESP: PubMed Auto Bibliography 28 Oct 2026 at 01:44 Created: 

covid-19

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

NOTE: To obtain the entire bibliography (all 23006 citations) in bibtek format (a format that can be easily loaded into many different reference-manager software programs, click HERE.

Created with PubMed® Query: ( SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR (wuhan AND coronavirus) AND review[SB] ) AND (2023[PDAT] OR 2024[PDAT] OR 2025[PDAT] OR 2026[PDAT]) NOT 40982904[pmid] NOT 40982965[pmid] NOT 35908569[pmid] NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

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RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Soiza RL, N Veronese (2026)

Recent research on vaccines for older adults.

Age and ageing, 55(10):.

Vaccination is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone of healthy ageing and geriatric care, extending beyond the prevention of infectious disease to potentially influence broader health outcomes. This Commentary article commemorates the launch of Age and Ageing's vaccines collection by highlighting key vaccine-related research published in the journal. It focuses on vaccine uptake, effectiveness and emerging research priorities for older adults. Uptake of recommended vaccines, including influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus and pneumococcal vaccines, remains variable internationally and is challenged by vaccine hesitancy. Successful vaccination programmes combine healthcare professional education, centralised reminder systems and easy access to vaccination services. Studies involving care-home residents demonstrated that COVID-19 vaccines provided substantial protection against infection and, particularly, mortality, although effectiveness declines over time and is influenced by immunosenescence. Immunological studies reveal weaker vaccine responses among infection-naïve older adults, supporting the importance of booster programmes and strategies to enhance immunity. Emerging evidence also suggests that interventions such as probiotics may improve vaccine immunogenicity, although further high-quality trials are required. Beyond infection prevention, observational data indicate that several vaccines, may be associated with a reduced risk of dementia, particularly vascular dementia, though causal relationships remain unproven. Looking forward, greater inclusion of frail older adults and care home residents in vaccine trials is essential to strengthen the evidence base. Future research should support the development of novel vaccines, improve preparedness for future pandemics and optimise vaccination strategies to maximise healthy ageing and preserve function in later life.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Al-Mansour M, Alhejazi A, Alsaggaf MA, et al (2026)

Prophylaxis Strategies for SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Adults With Hematological Malignancies in Saudi Arabia: Consensus Statements From the Working Group on COVID-19 Management in Hematological Malignancies.

Cancer reports (Hoboken, N.J.), 9(10):.

BACKGROUND: Despite the end of the pandemic phase, patients with hematological malignancies (HMs) remain vulnerable to severe COVID-19 infection and mortality. Prophylaxis strategies, including vaccination and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) like AZD7442, are crucial for protection. In Saudi Arabia, the incidence of HMs has risen, emphasizing the need for locally adapted prophylaxis strategies.

AIMS: This consensus provides recommendations for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection prophylaxis in adults with HMs in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS: We employed a modified Delphi approach to develop recommendations for minimizing the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with HMs. A multidisciplinary expert panel of hematologists, oncologists, and infectious disease specialists was formed. The Delphi process involved three voting rounds. Consensus was achieved if there was ≥ 80% agreement.

RESULTS: The present consensus consists of 24 statements. The panel agreed that the currently recommended COVID-19 vaccination is the frontline prophylactic strategy for SARS-CoV-2 prophylaxis or severe COVID-19 in patients with HMs. They also agreed that patients with HMs should receive at least one booster dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine, and that vaccination should not delay scheduled treatment. With regard to patients in the high-risk group, pre-exposure long-acting mAbs may be considered when activity against currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants has been demonstrated, and the agent is locally available and approved by the relevant regulatory authorities. The mAbs should be started, even if the patient is under treatment. In the case of vaccinated patients, the long-acting mAbs should be administered at least 2 weeks after vaccination.

CONCLUSION: There is a need for tailored prophylactic strategies to protect high-risk immunocompromised patients from COVID-19. Key recommendations include the need for booster doses of the updated vaccines, according to national availability, and the use of long-acting mAbs for pre-exposure prophylaxis, only when activity against circulating variants has been demonstrated, and the product is locally available and approved by the relevant regulatory authority.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Gorrie N, Montgomery E, McCaughan G, et al (2026)

Cardiac amyloidosis: recognition, diagnosis and management.

Australian prescriber, 49(5):174-181.

Cardiac amyloidosis is an under-recognised but treatable condition characterised by insoluble protein deposition in the heart and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. It is most commonly caused by transthyretin (known as transthyretin [ATTR] amyloidosis) but may also be caused by a plasma cell dyscrasia (known as light chain [AL] amyloidosis). Cardiac amyloidosis should be suspected in patients with heart failure and other suggestive features (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome, peripheral and/or autonomic neuropathy), particularly in those aged over 65 years. Findings from a standard work-up for heart failure may raise the possibility of cardiac amyloidosis, such as unexplained cardiac biomarker elevation or left ventricular wall thickening on an echocardiogram. Early investigation can begin in primary care. Monoclonal protein testing is essential to exclude AL amyloidosis, which requires urgent haematology review and treatment. Standard heart failure assessment should also be undertaken if not already performed. Patients with suspected cardiac amyloidosis should be promptly referred to a cardiologist or amyloidosis centre for confirmatory testing, which, in most cases, can be done noninvasively. Treatment of ATTR includes disease-modifying therapies (tafamidis, vutrisiran) and heart failure management, predominantly with diuretics and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors. All patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter should be anticoagulated regardless of CHA2DS2-VA score. Early recognition, timely referral and multidisciplinary care are essential to improve outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Yasin A, N Ibrahim (2026)

Mapping Global Research on Depression Among Medical Students: A Bibliometric and Conceptual Analysis (2001-2025).

The Malaysian journal of medical sciences : MJMS, 33(4):37-50.

BACKGROUND: The importance of mental health among medical students has gained worldwide recognition, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019. High rates of depression among medical students have drawn the attention of researchers, who have sought to identify and explore the factors related to the onset of depression. This study conducted a comprehensive review of the literature on depression among medical students and developed a conceptual framework highlighting the interaction of various factors contributing to the onset and maintenance of depression.

METHODS: This study conducted a bibliometric analysis of 467 papers retrieved from the Scopus database between 2001 and 2025. The eligibility criterion was articles that contained the terms "depression" and "medical students" in their titles. This systematic approach ensured a manageable dataset for analysis. Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer were used for an in-depth analysis of publication trends, affiliations, countries, prolific authors, and major journals and sources regarding depression among medical students.

RESULTS: The highest number of papers published was in 2022, while the United States was identified as the most productive country. Co-occurrence analysis identified eight core themes: psychosocial factors, affective-cognitive factors, psychological stressors, coping mechanisms, burnout, mental health and well-being, academic performance, and lifestyle factors of depression among medical students.

CONCLUSION: This study significantly contributes to the field by constructing a comprehensive conceptual framework that logically organises thematic factors into predictors, moderators, and outcome variables, and is expected to guide future research and align with emerging trends in this domain. Additionally, this study highlights the need for global collaboration on many topics in this field and urges the development of suitable psychological preventive strategies to reduce the rate of depression among medical students.

RevDate: 2026-10-27

Huang WH, Lin CK, Hong SA, et al (2026)

Mental Health Outcomes Among Migrant Caregivers: A Systematic Review of Prevalence, Associated Factors, and Supportive Interventions.

The International journal of social psychiatry [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Migrant caregivers play an essential role in addressing global shortages in long-term and domestic care. However, demanding working conditions, social isolation, and migration-related stressors may adversely affect their mental health, while evidence on prevalence, determinants, and effective interventions remains fragmented. This systematic review aimed to synthesize global evidence on the prevalence of mental health outcomes among migrant caregivers, identify associated risk factors, and summarize supportive interventions targeting their mental health.

METHODS: Eight databases were searched for studies published between January 2015 and October 2025. Eligible studies quantitatively assessed mental health outcomes among migrant caregivers or evaluated supportive mental health interventions using validated measurement tools. Due to substantial heterogeneity in study design, populations, and outcome measures, results were synthesized qualitatively.

RESULTS: A total of 48 studies were included (42 cross-sectional, 6 interventions). Prevalence of depression, anxiety, psychological distress, sleep problems, and caregiver burden varied widely across settings and measurement tools. Mental health outcomes were consistently associated with sociodemographic, occupational, environmental, physical health, psychosocial, migration-related, and COVID-19-related factors. Evidence on interventions was limited to six small trials, showing modest and inconsistent effects, with more consistent improvements in coping and mental health literacy than in depressive symptoms, varying by design and caregiver characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS: Migrant caregivers experience a substantial mental health burden associated with employment conditions, workplace social environments, and migration-related factors. Addressing their mental health requires both improved research designs and policy responses that extend beyond individual-level interventions to structural and social conditions.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Huang L, Tang Y, Chen X, et al (2026)

Advances and Challenges in mRNA Cancer Vaccines: Individualized Design and Delivery.

Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 13(10):.

Since the widespread use of mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines, significant progress has also been made in mRNA cancer vaccines. Currently, mRNA cancer vaccines represent one of the most promising treatments for advanced tumors, with several candidates in clinical trials. Compared with traditional treatment methods, mRNA cancer vaccines have several advantages. However, several challenges of mRNA cancer vaccines remain, including the accurate and rapid identification of neoantigens and hotspot mutations that match different HLA types. To address these challenges, we review four key aspects of mRNA cancer vaccine development. These include neoantigen identification technologies, machine learning and AI prediction, mRNA sequence and structure design, and the development of LNP delivery systems. Additionally, we analyze the pipelines of leading companies in this field, providing insights into personalized mRNA cancer vaccines. This review also discusses future challenges and prospects, aiming to help guide this promising field toward the full realization of its potential.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Di Grezia G, Clemente A, Dugheri S, et al (2026)

Blockchain and Internet of Medical Things for Resilient Healthcare.

Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 13(10):.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed persistent weaknesses in health-data interoperability, cybersecurity, provenance, cross-organizational governance, and continuity of digital care. This short communication presents an updated focused narrative synthesis and a five-layer governance framework for integrating blockchain and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) in patient-centered digital health. The literature was updated through 10 August 2026, with recent peer-reviewed evidence complemented by authoritative standards and European regulatory sources. The synthesis positions blockchain primarily as a distributed governance, provenance, and audit layer rather than a clinical database or stand-alone security solution, while IoMT provides heterogeneous sensing infrastructure for continuous and distributed care. The framework separates: (1) device and data acquisition; (2) network and edge orchestration, including 5G/SDN where clinically justified; (3) blockchain-based governance; (4) privacy-enhancing data, analytics, and AI; and (5) application and service delivery. Homomorphic encryption, zero-knowledge proofs, secure aggregation, differential privacy, and federated learning are treated as complementary controls with distinct threat models and computational trade-offs. The revised framework also incorporates the European Health Data Space, the EU AI Act and its medical-device interplay, and NIS2 as a regulatory overlay. Across six use-case domains, evidence is strongest for technical feasibility, provenance, and programmable access control; evidence for clinical effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, equity, sustainability, and large-scale deployment remains limited. The proposed model therefore emphasizes standards-based interoperability, minimization of on-chain personal data, endpoint trust, auditable human oversight, and prospective real-world validation.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Khan MA, Khan MH, KS Allemailem (2026)

Thymoquinone and Its Nanoformulation for Dual Antiviral Therapy: Targeting Intracellular Viral Replication and Host Complications.

Biomolecules, 16(10):.

Viral therapy requires effective control of intracellular viral replication while limiting harmful host responses that may contribute to disease progression and complications. Thymoquinone (TQ), a major bioactive constituent of Nigella sativa, has potential antiviral and host-protective properties, but its therapeutic implications are limited by poor aqueous solubility, chemical instability, and variable tissue exposure. This review critically explores TQ nanoformulations (Nano-TQ) as a promising strategy to overcome these limitations and enable dual antiviral therapy through improved intracellular delivery and modulation of virus-associated host injury. Research published between 2000 and 2026 is evaluated, with emphasis on TQ-specific antiviral activity, nanoformulation platforms, intracellular trafficking, virus-informed delivery, host complications, and translational development. Current evidence indicates that nanoformulation can improve the pharmaceutical and pharmacokinetic properties of TQ and may facilitate delivery to disease-relevant tissues. However, direct evidence that Nano-TQ can achieve functionally relevant intracellular delivery, selectively engage virus-related targets, or provide superior antiviral efficacy over free TQ remains limited. We therefore propose that the key translational benchmark should be a reproducible therapeutic advantage coupled to intracellular TQ exposure, target engagement, and reduced infectious viral output rather than improved bioavailability alone. Future studies should integrate virus-specific infection models, PK-PD relationships, and safety assessments to progress Nano-TQ toward a clinically relevant dual-action antiviral nanomedicine.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Rusch S, Mester P, Möller F, et al (2026)

Oxidative Stress and Alveolar-Capillary Barrier Failure in Sepsis- and Severe Acute Pancreatitis-Associated ARDS.

Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 15(10):.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the final common phenotype of diverse insults, but the route to alveolar-capillary barrier failure matters. Sepsis and severe acute pancreatitis provide an informative contrast: sepsis begins with infection and pathogen-associated molecular patterns, whereas pancreatitis is initially driven by sterile acinar-cell injury, necrosis and damage-associated molecular patterns, before infected necrosis can superimpose sepsis biology. These differences are clinically relevant since they determine whether redox-related signals must be interpreted in the context of pathogen burden and antimicrobial host defense or of initially sterile necrosis with subsequent risk of infected necrosis. In this review, we discuss how these distinct pathophysiological contexts engage NADPH oxidase (NOX)-derived oxidants, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species, reactive nitrogen species (RNS), lipid peroxidation, regulated cell death and impaired antioxidant defenses. We focus on the pulmonary endothelium and epithelium as compartments in which inflammatory and redox signals converge to disrupt barrier integrity, impair alveolar fluid clearance and promote immunothrombosis. We also discuss coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated ARDS as a viral comparator, the analytical limitations of redox biomarkers, and the value of serial, compartment-aware measurements. The central message is that oxidative stress is not a single systemic deficiency that can be corrected by generic antioxidants. Its biological and therapeutic significance depends on oxidant source, cellular compartment, microbial burden and disease phase. However, evidence for many specific redox pathways remains predominantly preclinical, and their clinical relevance requires further validation. At present, no validated redox-directed treatment-selection strategy exists; future approaches will therefore require validated target-engagement markers and phenotype- and time-specific trial designs.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Duffy A, Schweikert A, Tan SY, et al (2026)

Gene-Editing in Respiratory Disease: From Pre-Clinical Human Models to Future Therapeutics.

Biomedicines, 14(10):.

Chronic lung diseases arise from complex interactions between environmental exposures and host genetic factors. However, these interactions are not fully understood, and despite decades of study, effective curative therapies remain unavailable for many patients. Recent breakthroughs in therapeutic gene-editing have become a reality for some inherited blood diseases and are a promising approach for monogenic lung diseases. Early-phase clinical studies are now ongoing for AATD, primarily through liver-directed editing of hepatocytes to restore circulating functional AAT and for COVID-19 using gene-edited immune cell approaches. However, direct in vivo gene-editing of pulmonary epithelial cells remains largely at the preclinical stage. Expanding this therapeutic pipeline requires overcoming the unique biological barriers of the lung and developing human-specific models that faithfully recapitulate human disease mechanisms. Advances in gene-editing technologies, including CRISPR-Cas9 systems, base and prime editors, and emerging compact nucleases, have increased the feasibility of precise genomic correction. However, safe and efficient delivery directly to the lung remains a major unmet challenge due to mucus, surfactant, epithelial tight junctions, and innate immune surveillance. Delivery systems such as engineered AAVs, lentiviral vectors, selective organ targeting lipid nanoparticles and aerosolizable formulations like nebulised or dry powder nanoparticles are beginning to address these obstacles. In parallel, human preclinical models have evolved from traditional cell lines to more sophisticated platforms such as iPSC-derived airway and alveolar cells, organoids, precision-cut lung slices, air-liquid interface cultures, organ-on-a-chip devices, and patient-derived primary cells. These models enable mechanistic interrogation, variant-specific functional assessment, and preclinical evaluation of gene-editing strategies with increased physiological relevance. In this review, we detail current and emerging gene-editing tools, delivery strategies, and human-relevant disease models. We highlight key translational barriers and discuss how advanced human models combined with improved delivery technologies can accelerate the development of safe and effective gene-editing therapeutics for chronic respiratory disease.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Vampertzi O, Iosifidis E, Zelilidou A, et al (2026)

Infections and Anti-N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Encephalitis in Children and Adolescents: A Scoping Review of Evidence Since the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Children (Basel, Switzerland), 13(10):.

Background/Objectives: Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (anti-NMDAR) encephalitis is a common autoimmune encephalitis affecting children and adolescents. Its development has been associated with preceding or concomitant infections, particularly herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). This scoping review characterized the association between infections and pediatric anti-NMDAR encephalitis, focusing on epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, treatment, and prognosis from January 2020 to August 2025. Methods: A scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) framework. PubMed was systematically searched using the terms NMDAR encephalitis AND infections AND children. Of 110 identified records, 13 studies met the predefined eligibility criteria. Results: HSV-1 was the most consistently reported infectious association, particularly in younger children. Clinical phenotype varied with age, with neurological manifestations predominating in younger children and psychiatric, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms becoming more prominent in adolescents. HSV-associated cases, particularly following extensive HSV-related brain injury, were associated with greater residual neurological morbidity and less favorable long-term outcomes. Other infectious agents, including SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus, influenza B, and norovirus, were reported less frequently, with limited evidence regarding their impact on disease course. Immunotherapeutic strategies were generally similar irrespective of preceding infection, although active or treatment-associated infections could influence treatment timing, sequencing, and infectious-risk considerations. Earlier immunotherapy was associated with more favorable neurological recovery. Conclusions: Infectious exposures, particularly HSV-1, appear to be associated with pediatric anti-NMDAR encephalitis, although causality cannot be established from the predominantly retrospective and case-based literature. Prospective, multicenter studies using standardized diagnostic and outcome measures are needed to clarify the infection-autoimmunity relationship and optimize early recognition and management.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Ohshiro Y (2026)

Recovery-Phase Viral Pancreatitis (RVP): Proposal of a New Clinical Framework Arising During the Natural Course of Viral Infection.

Journal of clinical medicine, 15(20):.

We propose recovery-phase viral pancreatitis (RVP) as a new clinical framework for acute pancreatitis arising during natural recovery from viral infection. Although pancreatic injury during acute viral illness has been widely reported, pancreatitis arising after improvement of systemic viral symptoms remains poorly characterized. We conducted a focused narrative review with descriptive case-level analysis of published reports of virus-associated acute pancreatitis. We identified 19 cases of recovery-phase pancreatitis involving multiple unrelated viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, dengue virus, hepatitis A virus, and Epstein-Barr virus, although most cases (13/19, 68%) were associated with SARS-CoV-2. We propose a hypothetical two-hit model in which possible pancreatic viral involvement or antigen persistence during acute infection (Hit 1) is followed by recovery-associated immune recognition and pancreatic inflammation (Hit 2). Though RVP may share pathophysiological features with classical immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), we believe it should be distinguished from IRIS because it arises during the natural course of viral infection. RVP has been described after hospital discharge and may therefore represent an underrecognized temporal association, in which its relationship to the preceding viral infection may be overlooked. Recognition of RVP may facilitate appropriate diagnosis of pancreatitis arising during recovery from viral infection and provide a framework for future mechanistic investigations.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Tata FY, Nxumalo MB, Ntanzi N, et al (2026)

Metabolic Milieu and Susceptibility: The Combined Benefits of Targeting AMPK and ACE2 for Metabolic Disorders and COVID-19.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(20):.

The convergence of metabolic dysfunction and infectious diseases has become increasingly evident, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) emerge as pivotal molecular regulators linking metabolic homeostasis, endothelial integrity, immune modulation, and viral pathogenesis. Metabolic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are marked by insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, collectively increasing susceptibility to severe viral infections and outcomes. This review examines experimental, computational, and translational evidence exploring the interplay between AMPK and ACE2, focusing on metabolic, vascular, and inflammatory pathways relevant to viral infections. Recent findings show a bidirectional functional relationship between AMPK and ACE2, where AMPK phosphorylation supports ACE2 expression and function, and ACE2 signaling reciprocally enhances AMPK activity, forming a protective metabolic-vascular loop. Disruption of this axis, particularly through SARS-CoV-2-induced ACE2 degradation, exacerbates metabolic deterioration, vascular damage, and exaggerated inflammatory responses. Preclinical and in silico studies show that pharmacological AMPK activators, including metformin and bioactive flavonoids, demonstrate pleiotropic metabolic, anti-inflammatory, endothelial protective, and potential antiviral activities, hinting at the therapeutic potential of modulating the AMPK-ACE2 axis, despite the limited clinical application of flavonoids. The AMPK-ACE2 axis represents an important molecular link between metabolic regulation, renovascular health, and immune defense mechanisms. This evaluation connects AMPK and ACE2 from isolated signaling nodes into a coordinated pharmacological axis with implications for interventions in cardiometabolic and viral diseases. Future research should prioritize mechanistic validation and conduct integrated experimental and clinical investigations to establish AMPK-ACE2 co-targeting as a viable therapeutic strategy for mitigating cardiometabolic disease burden and enhancing resilience against viral infections.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Yang J, Chen Y, Zhang Y, et al (2026)

Interferon-Induced Protein 6 (IFI6): Biological Functions, Molecular Mechanisms and Pathological Roles in Human Diseases.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(20):.

Interferon (IFN)-induced protein 6 (IFI6) is an important member of the IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) family. It plays significant roles in anti-apoptosis, immune regulation, maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis, antiviral defense, and tumor progression. At the molecular mechanism level, IFI6 inhibits mitochondrial membrane depolarization, cytochrome c release, and caspase activation. It also regulates the balance between B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)/Bcl-2 interacting mediator of cell death (Bim), activates the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-protein kinase B (PI3K-AKT) pathways, and upregulates the ferroptosis-related proteins solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SLC7A11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), thereby enhancing cell survival and proliferation through multiple pathways. In terms of immune regulation, IFI6 is associated with immune cells (such as T/B cells, etc.) and the tumor microenvironment. IFI6 regulates mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS) and mitochondrial calcium homeostasis, influencing respiratory chain assembly and metabolism. In terms of viral infection, IFI6 may inhibit the replication of multiple viruses (such as hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), SARS-CoV-2, etc.) by inhibiting flavivirus-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) invagination, interfering with retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptor signaling pathways, and inhibiting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase activity. In addition, IFI6 is highly expressed in autoimmune diseases and malignant tumors and is associated with proliferation, metastasis, and poor prognosis. In this review, we aim to highlight IFI6 as a potential key target in disease diagnosis and treatment.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Nemat-Gorgani M, Jensen MA, RW Davis (2026)

The Glymphatic-Meningeal Lymphatic System and Autophagy in ME/CFS and Long COVID: A Mechanistic Perspective.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(20):.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and Post-Acute Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (Long COVID) are complex multisystem disorders affecting 60-400 million individuals globally. They are considered post-infectious illnesses and share similar biological mechanisms, including immune dysregulation, orthostatic intolerance and cognitive dysfunction, highlighting a substantial overlap between the two conditions. Persistent fatigue, sleep dysfunction, post-exertional malaise and brain fog are among some of their most common and debilitating symptoms. Despite extensive research, they remain incurable, with no effective treatments, or simple diagnostic tests. They are increasingly understood as heterogeneous, multisystem diseases, involving neurological symptoms, with varying severities and diverse underlying biological abnormalities. More recently, the possibility of glymphatic dysfunction and autophagy impairment have been proposed as parts of the mechanistic features of the pathophysiology of these conditions, which are discussed more fully in the present perspective. With the glymphatic and meningeal lymphatic systems being operationally integrated, we will try to delineate how the metabolic waste removal mechanism afforded by this system may work together with autophagy to maintain brain homeostasis. We will provide some of the established mechanistic features of toxicity of misfolded proteins, explore their role in causing glymphatic dysfunction and impairing autophagy, and discuss the potential for therapeutic interventions.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Rathored J, S Shende (2026)

Immunomodulatory Effects of Vitamin D Receptors and Serum Vitamin D Levels in COVID-19 Patients After Immunization: A Narrative Review.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(20):.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused global morbidity and mortality. Vaccination remains the most effective preventive strategy. However, variation in immune response after immunization has been observed among individuals. vitamin D plays a crucial role in immune regulation through activation of the VDR, which is expressed on various immune cells. The role of vitamin D status in post-vaccination immune responses among COVID-19 patients has gained increasing scientific interest. This narrative review evaluates the immunomodulatory roles of vitamin D receptors (VDRs) and serum vitamin D status in COVID-19 patients following vaccination, with particular emphasis on immune mechanisms, inflammatory regulation, and vaccine-induced immune responses. The relevant literature concerning vitamin D, VDR signaling, COVID-19 infection, vaccination, and immune responses was comprehensively reviewed. Emphasis was placed on studies discussing immune modulation, cytokine regulation, and antibody responses. Current evidence suggests that adequate serum vitamin D status may support both innate and adaptive immune responses following COVID-19 vaccination. Activation of the VDR regulates T-cell differentiation, modulates pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and supports humoral immune responses. Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with impaired vaccine responsiveness and persistent systemic inflammation. Vitamin D and VDR-mediated signaling pathways appear to play important roles in regulating immune responses following COVID-19 vaccination. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels may help improve vaccine-induced immunity and reduce excessive inflammatory responses.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Trif P, GaliÈ™ R, Mudura D, et al (2026)

Impacts of COVID-19 on Maternal and Newborn Healthcare Delivery in Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe: A Scoping Review and Proposal for a Resilience Framework.

Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 62(10):.

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted maternal and newborn healthcare worldwide, necessitating rapid reorganization of healthcare services while maintaining essential care. Evidence from Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe (CESEE) remains fragmented despite the region's heterogeneous healthcare systems and variable pandemic responses. This scoping review synthesized the available evidence on maternal and newborn healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic and proposes a Maternal and Newborn Healthcare Resilience Framework (MNRF) to integrate the findings across key domains of healthcare resilience. Materials and Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection were searched, with Google Scholar used as a supplementary search source. Eligible publications were published between 1 January 2020 and 31 May 2026. Evidence was synthesized across four predefined MNRF domains: access and continuity of care, healthcare organization and system capacity, quality and family-centered care, and maternal, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes. Results: Twelve publications met the inclusion criteria; several represented analyses derived from shared or partially overlapping datasets, particularly the multinational IMAgiNE EURO project. Across CESEE countries with available evidence, the pandemic disrupted access to antenatal services, accelerated the implementation of telemedicine, and prompted extensive reorganization of maternity and neonatal care. Family-centered practices, including birth companionship, skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding support, and shared decision-making, were consistently affected. Maternal, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes showed no consistent regional pattern of deterioration in the included evidence; however, data were limited and heterogeneous, and localized increases in stillbirths and changes in neonatal healthcare utilization were reported. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed important vulnerabilities and prompted substantial adaptations in maternal and newborn healthcare delivery in the represented CESEE settings. The MNRF provides a structured, hypothesis-generating conceptual model for organizing these experiences and identifying priorities for preparedness and future research.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Velázquez De Castro-Bono A, Castro-Luna G, JL Guil-Guerrero (2026)

Beyond Neuroinflammation: Targeting the Microbe-Barrier-Brain Axis Through Precision Nutrition in Neurological Long COVID (Neuro-PASC).

Nutrients, 18(20):.

Post-acute Neurological Sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (Neuro-PASC) contribute substantially to Long COVID-related disability, with cognitive impairment, chronic fatigue, dysautonomia, and neuropsychiatric symptoms among its most debilitating manifestations. Although its pathogenesis remains incompletely understood, evidence implicates persistent immune activation, intestinal barrier dysfunction, microbiota dysbiosis, microbiome-derived metabolic alterations, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroimmune interactions in sustaining neuroinflammation and neurological impairment. This narrative review examines precision nutrition as a potential pathway-oriented strategy for Neuro-PASC. We synthesise evidence linking the gut microbiota, intestinal permeability, immunometabolic pathways, mitochondrial function, and neurological outcomes, while evaluating nutritional interventions targeting these mechanisms. We focus on candidate biomarkers, including serum zonulin, fatty acid-binding protein 2 (FABP2), faecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and the kynurenine-to-tryptophan ratio, which may support patient stratification and personalised nutritional strategies. We also propose a stepwise framework involving dietary stabilisation, functional foods, targeted supplementation, and microbiome-based interventions, alongside practical considerations for post-exertional symptom exacerbation, dysautonomia, and mast cell-related symptoms. Finally, we identify priorities for future research, including multi-omics integration, artificial intelligence, digital health, and biomarker-stratified randomised controlled trials. Because current evidence remains predominantly observational and mechanistic, precision nutrition should be considered a complementary strategy requiring rigorous clinical validation.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Wang S, W Yu (2026)

Host Protein Palmitoylation: A Two-Edged Sword in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19.

Microorganisms, 14(10):.

Protein palmitoylation is a two-edged sword in regulating Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. On the one hand, SARS-CoV-2 hijacks the host's palmitoyl transferases (ZDHHC5/9/20) to modify its spike protein (S protein), enhancing its stability, membrane anchoring, and fusion, consequently facilitating SARS-CoV-2 entry, replication, and release. On the other hand, the host utilises this modification to activate antiviral defences: palmitoylation of the mitochondrial antiviral signalling protein (MAVS) leads to its accumulation in the mitochondria and initiates interferon signalling; palmitoylation of the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) is essential for its activation and transport; and palmitoylation of interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) increases its ability to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 membrane fusion. This defensive-offensive interplay within the same regulatory system offers fresh opportunities for targeted therapy, including the development of specific ZDHHC inhibitors, palmitoylated angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-based decoy vesicles, and metabolic intervention approaches. In the future, it will be necessary to conduct in-depth analyses of the functions of key modification sites and develop precise regulatory strategies to address the ongoing threat posed by coronaviruses.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Martinez-Fierro ML, Gonzalez-Delgado S, Solis-Hernandez IA, et al (2026)

Resveratrol for Post-COVID-19 Cognitive Dysfunction: From Molecular Basis to Clinical Translation.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 31(20):.

Post-COVID-19 condition can include persistent cognitive symptoms, commonly described as impaired attention, memory difficulties, slowed processing, and "brain fog." Clinical and translational evidence implicates systemic inflammation, neurovascular dysfunction, blood-brain barrier disruption, glial inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and altered synaptic or network function; their relative contributions remain uncertain and may differ across patient subgroups. Resveratrol is a polyphenolic compound that modifies inflammatory, redox, metabolic, endothelial, and antiviral pathways in experimental systems. This focused narrative review examines whether those actions provide a mechanistic basis for the use of resveratrol in post-COVID-19 cognitive dysfunction. Evidence was considered according to biological proximity to the intended indication, distinguishing human post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) studies from acute-COVID-19, non-COVID-19 clinical, animal, organoid, and cell-based evidence. The review identifies candidate neurovascular, immune, and metabolic processes, evaluates where resveratrol evidence intersects with those processes, and distinguishes molecular observations from clinical questions that remain to be tested for to define the therapeutic potential of using resveratrol to treat post-COVID-19 cognitive impairment.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Chen X, Zhang Z, Cheng H, et al (2026)

Porcine Deltacoronavirus (PDCoV): From Emerging Swine Enteric Coronavirus to a Potential Coronavirus to Infect Humans.

Viruses, 18(10):.

The global dissemination of coronaviruses continues to pose formidable threats to public health and socioeconomic development, making these viruses a major research priority. Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), an emerging porcine enteric virus identified over the past two decades, has resulted in substantial economic losses to the swine industry owing to its high mortality and persistent circulation across the globe. Beyond swine, PDCoV possesses a broad host spectrum and is capable of infecting avian species, mice, calves, and other animals. Most alarmingly, its zoonotic potential was highlighted in 2021 through the discovery of PDCoV genomic RNA in pediatric samples from Haiti, highlighting its potential to become the eighth coronavirus species known to infect humans. Despite these dual veterinary and public health threats, licensed vaccines and specific human therapeutics remain unavailable. These facts highlight an urgent demand for comprehensive and in-depth studies on PDCoV to mitigate its potential risks and forestall future outbreaks. This comprehensive review summarizes the latest research advances in PDCoV in four aspects: biological characteristics, epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and antibody development. It is expected that this review can provide a robust theoretical basis for understanding PDCoV infection dynamics and accelerating the development of next-generation, broad-spectrum antiviral strategies to mitigate future interspecies spillover events.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Wang P, Zhao Y, Yang Y, et al (2026)

Coronavirus Exploitation of Ubiquitination and Selective Autophagy to Control Innate Immunity: Mechanisms, Systems Logic, and Therapeutic Opportunities.

Viruses, 18(10):.

Coronaviruses replicate in membrane-rich cytoplasmic niches while confronting innate immune systems whose activation, signal propagation, and termination are extensively controlled by ubiquitin and autophagy. These two regulatory systems are often discussed separately. Yet they form a coupled information-and-disposal network: ubiquitin chains encode the identity and fate of immune proteins or viral cargo, whereas selective autophagy receptors read these signals and route substrates to lysosomes. Coronaviruses exploit this coupling at several levels. Papain-like proteases remove ubiquitin and ISG15 from antiviral factors; structural, nonstructural, and accessory proteins redirect host ubiquitin ligases or destabilize immune adaptors; and viral proteins remodel autophagosome biogenesis, mitophagy, lysosome function, and selective virophagy. These activities do more than globally suppress immunity. They delay early interferon production, reshape inflammatory signaling, preserve replication organelles, adjust mitochondrial quality control, and protect viral proteins from cargo-selective degradation. Importantly, the outcome is context dependent. Autophagy initiation can support membrane supply or suppress mitochondrial antiviral signaling, whereas completion of autophagic flux can eliminate viral material and restrain damaging inflammation. Likewise, K48-linked ubiquitination may remove antiviral proteins, but nondegradative K63- or M1-linked chains can either assemble antiviral signalosomes or promote pathological NF-κB activity. Here, we synthesize evidence from human and animal coronaviruses to propose that viral immune evasion is governed by spatially and temporally selective rewiring rather than indiscriminate inhibition. We distinguish mechanisms demonstrated during infection from those inferred from ectopic expression, identify points of convergence among RIG-I-like receptor, cGAS-STING, NF-κB, inflammasome, and autophagy pathways, and discuss why apparently contradictory observations often reflect differences in flux, cell type, infection stage, and viral lineage. This integrated view highlights viral proteases, host E3 ligase-substrate interfaces, autophagy receptors, and organelle contact sites as therapeutic nodes, while emphasizing that interventions must preserve the homeostatic functions of ubiquitin and autophagy.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Peng M, Luo F, N Li (2026)

Mechanisms and Research Progress of LncRNA-Mediated Regulation of Viral Infections.

Viruses, 18(10):.

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of RNA molecules whose transcripts exceed 200 nucleotides in length and typically lack protein-coding capacity, were once widely regarded as "transcriptional noise." However, recent studies have shown that lncRNAs can encode small peptides and play critical roles in biological processes, including gene expression regulation, cell differentiation, and immune response. Viral infections, as a common disease, can reshape the transcriptome of host cells, in which the differential expression of lncRNAs is a core link in host-virus interactions. This review aims to deeply analyze the multidimensional regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs in the host antiviral innate immune response. It elaborates in detail on how lncRNAs construct the host antiviral defense by regulating pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signaling pathways, the production and signal transduction of interferons (IFNs), as well as the expression of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs). Additionally, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the complex functions of lncRNAs in regulating programmed cell death (PCD), including key processes such as pyroptosis, autophagy, and apoptosis, and integrated specific research cases in infections caused by multiple significant viruses, including influenza A virus (IAV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We aim to provide novel strategies for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of viral diseases.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Szuster-Ciesielska A (2026)

Immune Imprinting Across Respiratory Virus Infection, Vaccination, and Passive Immunization: Rethinking 'Original Antigenic Sin' in Influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV.

Viruses, 18(10):.

Immune imprinting shapes every subsequent response to antigenically related pathogens and is now central to designing updated vaccines for influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The label "Original Antigenic Sin" has framed imprinting as a fixed liability, but recent germinal-center, B-cell repertoire, and epidemiological data show that the effect is neither uniformly harmful nor irreversible. This review distinguishes cross-reactive immune memory from immune imprinting, defined here as a preferential bias toward the first-encountered antigen. Prior exposure can provide useful cross-reactive memory, but available evidence generally does not show that first-antigen bias itself improves protection relative to an equivalent unbiased memory response. We therefore use a hypothesis-generating conceptual framework to examine how antigenic distance, conserved-epitope accessibility, and exposure interval may influence both the usefulness of recalled memory and the extent to which imprinting restricts recruitment of responses to later antigens. The framework organizes existing observations and is not intended to predict imprinting outcomes ex ante. We discuss recent quantitative models that explicitly formalize competition between memory and de novo responses as complementary, pathogen-specific approaches. Across influenza and SARS-CoV-2, early exposure can establish cross-reactive memory associated with subsequent heterologous protection, while preferential recall of the priming antigen may limit responses to novel epitopes. For RSV, the effects of maternal vaccination and passive antibodies on subsequent active immune memory remain uncertain. Immunogen engineering, schedule adjustment, adjuvant selection, and cohort-tailored strategies may broaden pre-existing memory toward conserved protective epitopes and reduce restrictive first-antigen bias.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Beltrami S, Strazzabosco G, Schiuma G, et al (2026)

Vascular Programs in Emerging and Re-Emerging RNA Virus Infections: Comparative Lessons from SARS-CoV-2, Flaviviruses, and Hantaviruses.

Viruses, 18(10):.

Emerging and re-emerging RNA viruses frequently present with clinical phenotypes that extend beyond classical organ tropism and include vascular leakage, platelet dysregulation, coagulation imbalance, microvascular injury, and thromboinflammation. SARS-CoV-2, flaviviruses, and hantaviruses provide three complementary models of virus-induced vascular disease. This narrative review compares these viruses through a shared endothelial-coagulative framework and proposes four partially overlapping vascular programs: endothelial activation, endothelial barrier failure, coagulation activation, and platelet quantitative or qualitative dysfunction. These programs are intended as a conceptual synthesis of convergent clinical, pathological, and experimental evidence rather than as a quantitative classification system. The framework is used not only to organize known mechanisms, but also to generate testable predictions for cross-virus biomarker panels, organ-specific endothelial models, and phenotype-guided clinical studies. Severe COVID-19 illustrates inflammation-driven endothelial activation, platelet-leukocyte interactions, complement amplification, NETosis, and immunothrombosis. Within the flavivirus group, DENV is used as the principal model for systemic vascular leakage, thrombocytopenia, and hemorrhagic risk; selected non-dengue flaviviruses illustrate how shared endothelial, platelet, and coagulation modules are redirected toward placental dysfunction (ZIKV), neuroinvasion (WNV and JEV), or hepatic failure and coagulopathy (YFV). Hantavirus infections provide a distinctive model of capillary leak syndrome in which non-lytic endothelial infection, immune-mediated injury, and permeability signaling converge on renal and pulmonary microvascular beds. A comparative view suggests that thrombotic, hemorrhagic, and leaky phenotypes are not mutually exclusive categories, but different outcomes of overlapping vascular programs shaped by viral tropism, vascular-bed specialization, immune activation, and host susceptibility.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Vaidya SR, Pandey PG, Giri S, et al (2026)

Aircraft and Airport Wastewater Surveillance for Public Health Preparedness Demands an Integrated and Sustainable Approach.

Viruses, 18(10):.

As domestic and international travel has expanded, the risk of the cross-border dissemination of infectious pathogens has increased, as clearly evidenced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aircraft- and airport-based wastewater surveillance can provide timely, aggregate evidence of pathogen circulation among mobile populations and may complement clinical, genomic, and syndromic surveillance at points of entry. The strongest evidence for this approach comes from SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection and variant monitoring in aircraft lavatory wastewater, airport terminal wastewater, and airport-associated wastewater systems. However, aviation wastewater signals require cautious interpretation because detectability depends on pathogen shedding dynamics, passenger lavatory use, flight duration, sampling matrix, sample volume, assay sensitivity, sequencing depth, and the availability of epidemiological metadata. This structured narrative review synthesizes current evidence on aircraft and airport wastewater surveillance and examines the scientific determinants that influence surveillance validity and interpretation. Key methodological considerations include sampling design, sample preservation, nucleic acid extraction, molecular detection, sequencing, bioinformatics, inhibition assessment, recovery controls, assay sensitivity, and quality assurance. The review emphasizes that wastewater signals are aggregate and matrix-dependent and should not be interpreted as individual-level diagnosis, direct evidence of transmission, or definitive attribution to a specific flight, route, country, or population. Although SARS-CoV-2 surveillance is comparatively well-documented, multi-pathogen surveillance for enteric viruses, respiratory viruses, vaccine-preventable infections, emerging pathogens, and antimicrobial resistance markers requires pathogen-specific validation and clearer interpretation criteria. Aircraft and airport wastewater surveillance is therefore best viewed as an early-warning and situational-awareness approach whose value depends on converting technical signals into scientifically interpretable evidence.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Huang X, Tang Y, Liu D, et al (2026)

Effects of Telerehabilitation on Quality of Life, Physical Capacity, and Symptom Burden Within the Post-COVID-19 Condition: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

JMIR rehabilitation and assistive technologies, 13:e95368 pii:v13i1e95368.

BACKGROUND: Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC) is characterized by persistent symptoms and functional limitations that impair quality of life, and rehabilitation is an important component of its management. Because access to conventional face-to-face rehabilitation may be limited, telerehabilitation has emerged as an accessible alternative. However, the effectiveness of telerehabilitation across clinical outcomes remains uncertain, and the influence of different delivery modes is not well understood.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of telerehabilitation on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), physical capacity, and symptom burden in adults with PCC, and to determine whether delivery mode (synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid) modified these effects.

METHODS: Seven databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, EBSCO, and PEDro) were searched for randomized controlled trials published from January 2020 through December 2025. Eligible trials enrolled adults with PCC and compared telerehabilitation with usual care or another control condition. The primary outcome was HRQoL; secondary outcomes included functional capacity assessed by the 6-minute walk test and sit-to-stand test, dyspnea, fatigue, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. Mean differences or standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% CIs were pooled using random-effects models with the Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman adjustment. Heterogeneity was quantified using I² and τ², with 95% prediction intervals reported where estimable. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach.

RESULTS: A total of 22 randomized controlled trials involving 2294 participants were included. Telerehabilitation was associated with significant improvements in HRQoL (SMD 1.26, 95% CI 0.07-2.45; P=.04), dyspnea (SMD 1.95, 95% CI 0.60-3.31; P=.005), and functional aerobic capacity (6-minute walk test : mean difference 77.79 meters, 95% CI 30.44-125.14; P=.001). Fatigue was also significantly reduced (SMD 0.89, 95% CI 0.16-1.62; P=.02), but no significant effects were observed for lower-limb strength (sit-to-stand test: SMD 0.55, 95% CI -0.15 to 1.25; P=.12) or symptoms of anxiety and depression (SMD 0.12, 95% CI -0.13 to 0.38; P=.36). No significant differences between delivery modes were observed for HRQoL (P=.93), functional aerobic capacity (P=.29), or dyspnea (P=.16). A significant subgroup difference was observed for lower-limb strength (P=.02).

CONCLUSIONS: Telerehabilitation may improve quality of life, aerobic capacity, and symptom burden in PCC and offer an accessible option for post-COVID rehabilitation, although the certainty of evidence was generally limited. Asynchronous delivery appears feasible for general reconditioning, whereas its benefit for lower-limb strength and the value of synchronous supervision remain uncertain.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42023490863; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023490863.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Alsehli AH, A Eskander TN, Alahmadi SM, et al (2026)

Innovations in engineered nanomaterials for enhanced CO2 adsorption and climate change mitigation.

Discover nano, 21(1):.

Climate change, characterized by persistent alterations in weather patterns from tropical to polar regions, poses a multifaceted challenge that affects numerous sectors globally. Moreover, climate change is also endangering the existence and integrity of many species by disrupting their optimal temperature ranges, thus exacerbating the loss of biodiversity by reshaping ecosystems. The emergence and spread of diseases, exemplified by the recent coronavirus pandemic, are also influenced by climate variability, which enhances the likelihood of foodborne, waterborne, and vector-borne illnesses. The accelerating rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations is a major driver of global climate change, necessitating the development of effective mitigation technologies. Among the emerging solutions, engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) have demonstrated exceptional potential for CO2 capture owing to their tunable surface chemistry, high porosity, and superior adsorption capacity. This review systematically examines recent innovations in nanostructured materials-such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), carbon-based nanomaterials, zeolitic materials, and hybrid composites-designed to enhance CO2 adsorption performance. The underlying adsorption mechanisms, including physisorption, chemisorption, and surface functionalization strategies, are discussed in detail to elucidate structure-property relationships. Special attention is given to the synergistic effects of nanoparticle modification, doping, and heterostructure engineering in optimizing adsorption kinetics and selectivity. Furthermore, the review evaluates experimental and computational advancements that bridge the gap between laboratory-scale findings and industrial implementation. The study highlights how the rational design of ENMs contributes not only to CO2 capture efficiency but also to the broader goal of sustainable carbon management and climate change mitigation. Finally, future perspectives on scalable synthesis, environmental safety, and integration with renewable energy systems are outlined to guide forthcoming research directions.

RevDate: 2026-10-27
CmpDate: 2026-10-27

Fihman V, Jacquier H, Razazi K, et al (2026)

Beyond the panel: molecular detection is not diagnosis.

The Journal of antimicrobial chemotherapy, 81(11):.

Over the past decade, molecular diagnostics have become widespread in clinical microbiology, a trend accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Syndromic multiplex PCR panels are increasingly incorporated into routine practice and clinical guidelines, owing to their speed and ease of use. However, their expanding success may overshadow some fundamental principles in bacteriology. In this viewpoint, we argue that the decision to start, continue or stop antibiotics must remain basically clinical; that the detection of nucleic acids is not equivalent to the diagnosis of an infection; and that sample quality, colonization, contamination, off-panel pathogens and prior antibiotic exposure may mitigate the interpretation of molecular results. Available trials show that rapid molecular diagnostics can improve antimicrobial prescribing but their impact on clinical outcomes appears conditional on integration with stewardship programmes. Molecular diagnostics should accelerate and refine clinical reasoning, rather than stand for the key element in the decision to treat bacterial infections.

RevDate: 2026-10-27

Rakic A, Fleet JL, EA Bateman (2026)

Try this at home: A systematic review of patient satisfaction with stroke telerehabilitation.

Cerebrovascular diseases (Basel, Switzerland) pii:000555065 [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: Stroke rehabilitation improves patient outcomes, but requires timely delivery, sufficient intensity, and adequate participation in appropriate therapies for maximal effectiveness. Unfortunately, many patients experience barriers to accessing conventional in-person rehabilitation. Telerehabilitation may increase access to care and is increasingly used in clinical settings, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known about patient satisfaction with telerehabilitation. The objective of this systematic review was to examine patient satisfaction with post-stroke motor telerehabilitation.

METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases were searched from database inception to July 2025 inclusive. Two independent reviewers screened articles using the following inclusion criteria: English-language, full-text articles, reporting patient satisfaction outcomes with telerehabilitation for persons with stroke receiving upper or lower limb motor rehabilitation. Studies reporting only caregiver, but not patient satisfaction, were excluded. Study quality was assessed using the PEDro rating scale where appropriate.

RESULTS: After removing duplicates, 225 unique articles were reviewed. Nineteen studies published between 2007-2025 met inclusion criteria, assessing 811 individuals (n= 4-188, median 24) across 13 countries. Most studies were conducted in the outpatient setting; three were in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Fourteen studies (74%) examined telerehabilitation in the chronic phase post-stroke, two in the acute phase, two in the subacute phase, and one in both acute and subacute. Ten studies used telerehabilitation for upper limb motor impairment, two for lower limb, and seven for both. Eight controlled trials (seven randomized control trials and one non-randomized control trial) were assessed for quality with PEDro scores ranging from 4-8 (median 6). Assessment tools for patient satisfaction varied significantly between studies. Eight unique validated satisfaction tools were used across studies. All studies reported high patient satisfaction ratings with virtual motor telerehabilitation.

CONCLUSION: Although this review found that patient satisfaction ratings were high among studies of telerehabilitation for post-stroke motor impairment, there are few high-quality motor telerehabilitation studies, and none focused on satisfaction as their main outcome. Given the importance of telerehabilitation for removing barriers to care, future research should use standardized tools to explore patients' and providers' satisfaction in addition to evaluating efficacy.

RevDate: 2026-10-27

Vaishya R, Ram S, Gupta BM, et al (2026)

Bibliometric analysis of highly cited papers in Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research and Reviews (2007-2026): Trends, impact, and emerging themes.

Diabetes & metabolic syndrome, 20(9):103496 pii:S1871-4021(26)00123-2 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of highly cited papers (HCPs) published in Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research and Reviews (DMSCRR) to understand the journal's research evolution, influential contributions, thematic priorities, and to compare the numbers and percentages of HCPs of the leading competing Indian biomedical journals.

METHODS: Data on 2908 publications (2007-2026) and for other Indian biomedical journals were retrieved from Scopus on June 25, 2026. The 105 HCPs (≥100 citations) were analysed using OpenRefine for data harmonization and VOSviewer for collaboration and keyword co-occurrence networks. Metrics included publication trends, citation impact, document types, collaboration patterns, funding, and leading contributors.

RESULTS: HCPs for DMSCRR showed a marked surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, with 2020 contributing 55 papers (52.38%). The 105 HCPs received 26,415 citations (average 251.57 CPP). Research articles (53.33%) and reviews (42.86%) dominated. India led with 59 papers, followed by strong performances from Iran, the UK, and the USA. Key institutions and authors were primarily Indian. Keyword analysis revealed five themes centered on diabetes, pathophysiology, COVID-19, comorbidities, and immunology. Top HCPs focused on psychosocial impacts and AI applications in COVID-19. DMSCRR had the highest proportions of HCPs (3.61% of its total publications) with highest cite score among Indian biomedical journals compared.

CONCLUSION: DMSCRR has emerged as a high-impact Q1 journal (CiteScore 8.6 and IF=4.3 (JCR 2025)) with strong national leadership and global relevance in research on diabetes, metabolic diseases. Its HCPs reflect timely responsiveness to health crises while highlighting opportunities for broader international and thematic diversification.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Haratian K, Borjian Boroujeni P, Zarei Moradi S, et al (2026)

Viral Infections and Ovarian Reserve: Mechanistic Insights into Ovarian Aging- A Review.

International journal of fertility & sterility, 20(4):320-331 pii:734587.

Ovarian aging, marked by the progressive loss of follicular reserve and decline in oocyte quality, is a principal determinant of female reproductive lifespan. While genetic and environmental factors are well-established contributors, viral infections, including both DNA and RNA viruses, are increasingly recognized as significant extrinsic modulators of ovarian function. This review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms and clinical outcomes by which key viral pathogens, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), hepatitis B virus (HBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), human papillomavirus (HPV), mumps virus, herpes simplex virus (HSV), and rubella virus, affect ovarian aging and reserve. The discussion highlights those viral infections can impact ovarian function through inflammation, cytopathic effects, oxidative stress, and immune-mediated mechanisms, although the magnitude and clinical relevance vary. Current evidence for viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and HBV is limited and inconsistent, highlighting the need for individualized assessment when considering fertility interventions. Further longitudinal and mechanistic studies are essential to clarify long-term reproductive outcomes and to guide evidence-based fertility counseling.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Mufarika M, Hargono A, AH Furqoni (2026)

Family Resilience and Coping in Disasters, Pandemics, and Large-Scale Crises: A Systematic Review.

Disaster medicine and public health preparedness, 20:e208 pii:S1935789326104236.

BACKGROUND: Disasters, large-scale crises, and prolonged adversities such as pandemics can place sustained psychosocial pressure on families and disrupt everyday family functioning. Although family resilience is increasingly used to explain why some families adapt better than others, the evidence base is dispersed across conceptual, empirical, and intervention-focused work.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science and included peer-reviewed studies that examined family resilience or family coping in disaster, pandemic, or sustained adversity contexts. Study selection followed PRISMA 2020 principles. Data were extracted using a standardized form and synthesized using narrative and thematic approaches.

RESULTS: Forty-two studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Across contexts, family resilience was most often described as a dynamic, system-level process that involves shared meaning-making, organizational flexibility, and effective communication. Parenting practices repeatedly emerged as a key pathway linking family resilience to child adjustment. Resilience-oriented family interventions reported overall beneficial effects across disaster, pandemic, and serious illness contexts, with no evidence of harm.

CONCLUSIONS: Family resilience is a critical contributor to psychosocial adaptation during disasters and large-scale crises. Interventions that strengthen family-level processes-especially communication, coping skills, and supportive parenting-may offer a scalable approach to improve preparedness, response, and longer-term recovery.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Alzibdeh A, Alamami A, Zara S, et al (2026)

Infectious Complications in Adults Receiving Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Nosocomial and Bloodstream Infection, Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Clinical Outcomes.

Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland), 14(6): pii:medsci14060653.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Reported infection rates during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) vary widely, partly because case definitions are applied inconsistently. We synthesized the prevalence and prognostic association of nosocomial and bloodstream infection (BSI) acquired during adult ECMO.

METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and CENTRAL were searched through December 2025 for observational studies of at least 10 adults on ECMO with an explicit infection definition. We classified case definitions by the criteria actually applied. We pooled crude mortality odds ratios (ORs) and patient-level BSI prevalence in studies applying laboratory-confirmed criteria, assessed risk of bias with ROBINS-I and the JBI checklist, and rated certainty with GRADE.

RESULTS: Forty-seven reports (46 cohorts; 11,573 patients) were included. Pooled BSI prevalence was 25.8% (95% CI 17.3-36.5%; 7 studies, 1193 patients), 18.2% in pre-pandemic and 39.2% in COVID-19 cohorts (post hoc). Infection was associated with higher crude odds of death (OR 1.65, 1.33-2.04; prediction interval 0.95-2.85; 24 studies), but analyses modeling infection as time-varying were inconsistent, including no association in a multistate model (adjusted hazard ratio 1.00, 0.79-1.26), and small-study effects were suggested. Certainty was very low for both outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Roughly one in four adults on ECMO developed laboratory-confirmed BSI, more often in COVID-19 cohorts. Whether infection acquired on ECMO increases mortality remains uncertain.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Fayed B (2026)

Candida auris in the Middle East and North Africa: From Emerging Threat to Regional Healthcare Challenge.

Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland), 14(6): pii:medsci14060679.

Candida auris (also termed Candidozyma auris) (C. auris) is an emerging healthcare-associated yeast that has become a major concern because of its persistence in hospitals, frequent misidentification, multidrug resistance, and ability to cause outbreaks in critically ill patients. This review synthesizes the available evidence from the Gulf region, the Eastern Mediterranean region, and North Africa, with emphasis on reported case patterns, epidemiologic expansion, clade distribution, antifungal resistance, colonization-to-infection transition, mortality, and the impact of the COVID-19 period. The Gulf region carries the highest documented burden, with recurrent hospital outbreaks and large surveillance series reported from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. Across the Eastern Mediterranean region, emergence has been more heterogeneous, but major amplification was observed during the COVID-19 era, particularly in Lebanon and Israel. North African data remain more limited, with Egypt and Algeria representing the main published settings; nevertheless, the available findings indicate recent emergence rather than true absence. Across the region, clade I predominates in most countries, suggesting a largely homogeneous South Asian lineage with efficient healthcare-associated transmission. Fluconazole resistance is nearly universal, amphotericin B susceptibility is variable, and echinocandin activity is usually preserved, although resistance to all major antifungal classes has been documented. Colonization often precedes invasive infection, especially among patients with ICU exposure, invasive devices, and prolonged hospitalization. Mortality remains substantial and is highest among patients with bloodstream infection or progression from colonization to invasive disease. The regional pattern is likely driven by a combination of healthcare infrastructure, surveillance intensity, diagnostic capacity, outbreak control, and pandemic-related strain on infection prevention systems.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Cernat RC, Ioniţă OE, Vodarici ME, et al (2026)

Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in Romania and South-Eastern Europe: A Multilingual Narrative Review of Pandemic-Era Trajectories, 2020-2025.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 15(10): pii:pathogens15101004.

Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is the pathogen driving the deterioration of the European antimicrobial resistance landscape, and the burden falls disproportionately on Romania and South-Eastern Europe. The objective of this review was to synthesise evidence published between 2020 and 2025 on the epidemiology, molecular characteristics, clinical impact, and pandemic-era trajectory of CRKP healthcare-associated infections across South-Eastern Europe, including Romania. This retrospective, qualitative narrative review combined the international literature with a deliberately multilingual search of national-language sources in Romanian, Bulgarian, Greek, Croatian, Slovenian, and Serbian, including congress abstract books, doctoral theses, national reference-laboratory reports, and agency surveillance series that are absent from PubMed. Three findings emerge. First, the region is not epidemiologically uniform: estimated incidence of carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae bloodstream infection in 2024 ranged from 0.62 per 100,000 population in Slovenia to 20.31 in Romania, against a European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA) figure of 3.46, and the steepest relative rise between 2019 and 2024 was recorded in Bulgaria (+374.1%). Second, a distinctive molecular signature has consolidated in the northern half of the region: co-production of a metallo-β-lactamase with an OXA-48-like enzyme (OXA-48, a class D, oxacillinase-type carbapenemase), reported in 44.4-61.2% of characterised Romanian isolates across independent centres, which removes ceftazidime-avibactam from the therapeutic repertoire and leaves aztreonam-avibactam and cefiderocol as the principal remaining options. Third, the pandemic did not produce a single regional signal but a consistent sequence-a transient interruption of upward trends during 2020, a marked acceleration from 2021, and persistence of the elevated level after 2022-with national-language surveillance from Croatia and Slovenia showing that the direction of the apparent pandemic effect depends on whether incidence or resistance proportion is measured. The national-language literature adds granularity unavailable in English, but the evidence base remains structurally uneven: Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia contribute almost no primary data, and no country in the region has published a CRKP-attributable mortality estimate for the review period. CRKP in Romania and South-Eastern Europe now maps onto three molecular zones-OXA-48 predominance in the Western Balkans and Croatia, a KPC-to-metallo-β-lactamase transition in Greece, and metallo-β-lactamase plus OXA-48-like co-production in Romania and increasingly Bulgaria-that require different empirical therapy; the COVID-19 pandemic did not create this burden but accelerated and entrenched it, and closing the region's mortality-data and Western Balkan surveillance gaps should be a priority for future research.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Madkhali F, Mjery YA, Mohrag M, et al (2026)

From COVID-19-Associated Acute Kidney Injury to Long-Term Kidney Dysfunction: Recovery Phenotypes, Risk Stratification, and Post-COVID Renal Surveillance.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 15(10): pii:pathogens15101022.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19-associated acute kidney injury (AKI) is common in severe disease, but its long-term kidney implications are heterogeneous and incompletely defined.

OBJECTIVE: To synthesize recovery phenotypes and longitudinal outcomes, reconcile conflicting evidence on whether COVID-associated AKI differs from other-cause AKI, and set out implications for surveillance and management.

METHODS: The evidence base was assembled through a targeted PubMed/MEDLINE search for COVID-19 and kidney dysfunction (January 2020 to August 2026), hand-searching of reference lists, and direct retrieval of pivotal longitudinal cohorts and clinical practice guidelines. Longitudinal cohorts and comparative studies were prioritized.

FINDINGS: AKI severity, duration, kidney replacement therapy, lower baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and incomplete early recovery consistently identify patients at greatest risk. Longitudinal studies disagree on whether COVID-AKI confers more risk than AKI from other illnesses: early cohorts reported steeper eGFR loss, whereas a later 9624-patient cohort found lower adjusted major adverse kidney events. This divergence reflects differences in kidney reference point, outcome construction, ascertainment, and handling of competing death rather than genuine contradiction. Population studies show long-term kidney failure is concentrated after hospitalization and severe disease. Candidate biomarkers remain investigational.

CONCLUSIONS: Post-COVID kidney risk is severity- and phenotype-dependent rather than universal. Follow-up is most defensible after hospitalized AKI, incomplete recovery, advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), dialysis, or transplantation and applies existing post-AKI guidance rather than a COVID-specific schedule. Survivors who meet Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria for CKD at three months, namely a GFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m[2] or a persistent marker of kidney damage, become eligible for guideline-directed therapy, though no trial has enrolled on recent AKI. Prospective studies should test whether structured follow-up improves outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Panagiotopoulos AP, Tsakri D, Laskaris A, et al (2026)

Navigating the Transition to RNA-Based Influenza Vaccines: A State-of-the-Art Review.

Vaccines, 14(10): pii:vaccines14100874.

Seasonal influenza and the ongoing emergence of zoonotic influenza viruses, including highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1), remain substantial global public health threats, underscoring the need for rapidly adaptable vaccine platforms. This state-of-the-art review critically evaluates the clinical development of RNA-based influenza vaccines through a comprehensive assessment of ClinicalTrials.gov records and peer-reviewed literature. Candidates were examined across four domains: seasonal influenza vaccines, pre-pandemic influenza vaccines, combination respiratory vaccines, and self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) platforms. Clinical evidence indicates that mRNA influenza vaccines consistently elicit robust humoral immune responses and, in late-stage trials, have demonstrated improved relative efficacy against influenza A compared with conventional influenza vaccines. Reactogenicity is generally more frequent with mRNA vaccines, particularly with respect to transient mild-to-moderate systemic adverse events. However, serious adverse events remain uncommon and broadly comparable to those observed with licensed comparator vaccines. Pre-pandemic and multicomponent mRNA vaccine candidates similarly demonstrate strong immunogenicity, supporting the potential of RNA platforms for both seasonal vaccination and pandemic preparedness. Clinical development of saRNA influenza vaccines has progressed through early-phase trials, although publicly available clinical data remain limited. Regulatory milestones in 2026, including U.S. approval of mRNA-1010 (mFlusiva), the first approved mRNA-based seasonal influenza vaccine, and European Union authorization of mRNA-1083 (mCOMBRIAX), an mRNA-based influenza-COVID-19 combination vaccine, represent important steps in the clinical transition and implementation of RNA-based influenza vaccination.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Madsen HB, C Desler (2026)

Post-acute infection: before we forget it again.

Clinical and experimental immunology, 220(1):.

Long COVID did not invent the post-acute phase of infection; it made it impossible to ignore. Acute infections are still often framed as time-limited events that end in recovery, deterioration or death, but this view fails to capture patients who remain biologically and clinically unwell after the acute infection has passed. The problem extends beyond SARS-CoV-2. Post-acute morbidity has been described after influenza, Epstein-Barr virus infection, Q fever, sepsis, and other infections, yet definitions, coding systems, and clinical pathways remain fragmented. We argue that post-acute infection should not be organized only by the initiating pathogen. Such pathogen-centric labels may be clinically tidy, but they risk producing heterogeneous cohorts, diluted biomarker signals, and disease-specific silos that obscure shared mechanisms of incomplete recovery. Instead, the field needs a second axis: the host-recovery state. Persistent inflammation, immune remodelling, loss of tolerance, antigenic stimulation, endothelial dysfunction, mitochondrial impairment, and tissue injury may represent overlapping immunometabolic failure modes across infections. Defining these states over time could help transform post-acute infection from a residual clinical label into a mechanism-informed framework for research, biomarkers, and care.

RevDate: 2026-10-26

Turner HC, Chua BWB, Chaowanasawat P, et al (2026)

Quality-Adjusted and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs and DALYs): An Overview and Guide to Calculations.

PharmacoEconomics - open [Epub ahead of print].

Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) are two commonly used health status indices that account for both morbidity and mortality. They are used within the most widely used type of health economic evaluation for informing resource allocation, known as cost-effectiveness analysis, which plays a key role in public health globally. Although similar in many ways, QALYs and DALYs have important differences in their conceptual foundations. In addition, methodological approaches-particularly those related to DALYs calculations-have evolved over time. This paper provides a consolidated and up‑to‑date synthesis of both metrics, integrating recent methodological developments and clarifying conceptual differences that are often misunderstood in applied work. We highlight the implicit assumptions and limitations that must be considered when using their output to inform decision making. We also present practical guidance and illustrative equations for calculating each metric, and we outline common errors to avoid. Finally, we outline considerations for choosing between QALYs and DALYs in applied analyses.

RevDate: 2026-10-26
CmpDate: 2026-10-26

Simkhada P, Lwin KS, Koirala B, et al (2026)

Barriers and facilitators of evidence-informed health policymaking in Nepal: A scoping review.

PloS one, 21(10):e0358730 pii:PONE-D-26-00588.

BACKGROUND: Evidence-informed health policymaking (EIPM) is essential for strengthening health systems and achieving equitable health outcomes. Despite policy commitments in Nepal, the translation of research evidence into policy and practice remains limited. This scoping review synthesizes the barriers and facilitators influencing EIPM across health policy domains in Nepal.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review following the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025 that examined barriers and facilitators of EIPM in Nepal were identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Global Health. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and conducted descriptive and thematic analyses.

RESULTS: Of 2,139 records identified, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies covered maternal and neonatal health, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), nutrition, emergency care, health systems governance, climate-health, public health regulation, and COVID-19 ethics. Barriers were grouped into five themes: systemic and governance challenges; capacity and resource constraints; evidence-related issues; contextual and cultural factors; and operational gaps. Common barriers included political interference, fragmented coordination, workforce shortages, inadequate funding, donor-driven agendas, poor dissemination of research, and limited implementation guidance. Facilitators clustered into four themes: institutional and structural enablers, political and leadership commitment, capacity building and stakeholder engagement, and global and donor support. Sector-specific differences were observed, with socio-cultural barriers more prominent in maternal and neonatal health, governance and coordination challenges particularly evident in NCD policies, and technical capacity and data limitations more pronounced in climate-health policy.

CONCLUSIONS: Nepal's EIPM landscape reflects strong commitment but uneven institutionalization. Strengthening governance, institutional capacity, evidence systems, and coordination across federal, provincial, and local institutions is essential to improve the translation of research into policy and practice. Institutionalizing EIPM requires not only producing evidence but also creating systems that routinely generate, translate, and use evidence for decision-making.

RevDate: 2026-10-26

Dean LS, Awamura T, Byun MJ, et al (2026)

Neutrophils in Respiratory Viral Infection: Immunopathology and Therapeutic Strategies.

American journal of physiology. Lung cellular and molecular physiology [Epub ahead of print].

The respiratory tract is constantly exposed to microbes from the surrounding environment. This mucosal barrier requires precise control and response mechanisms that preserve gas exchange while maintaining barrier integrity. Neutrophils, the most abundant leukocytes, are key to maintaining this homeostasis. Both lung-resident and recruited neutrophils migrate to inflamed areas, where they perform effector functions such as phagocytosis, degranulation, reactive oxygen species production, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. These processes are tightly regulated, with immune cells such as alveolar macrophages helping to balance pathogen clearance and inflammation. Emerging evidence indicates that neutrophils contribute to inflammation and tissue damage beyond their antimicrobial roles. Elevated neutrophil levels and activation are associated with disease severity and poor outcomes following respiratory viral infection. In addition, respiratory viruses can hijack neutrophil functions to disrupt immune regulation and promote viral replication. Thus, neutrophil dysregulation has been proposed as a target for reducing acute disease severity and preventing lung injury. However, neutrophils exhibit both protective and pathogenic roles during infection, requiring therapeutic strategies that preserve their host defense while limiting pathological effects. This review summarizes current knowledge of neutrophil biology and their immunopathological roles in respiratory viral infections, focusing on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Influenza A virus (IAV), and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). We also discuss therapeutic approaches targeting neutrophils, including preclinical and clinical studies, highlighting ongoing efforts to modulate neutrophil-driven inflammation.

RevDate: 2026-10-25
CmpDate: 2026-10-25

Heath PT, Galiza EP, Salcedo PJ, et al (2026)

The next generation of maternal vaccines: scientific advances, regulatory readiness, and strategic planning in Europe.

The Lancet regional health. Europe, 71:101899.

With the recent approval of maternal RSV vaccines and late-phase trials underway for a GBS vaccine, Europe is entering a new era of maternal immunisation. Yet scientific progress is outpacing pregnancy-specific evidence and preparedness for equitable implementation. Pregnant women are often excluded from early vaccine trials, while national recommendations, surveillance and delivery vary across Europe, even after regulatory authorisation. Without coordinated planning, new maternal vaccines risk reproducing the delays and inequities seen with influenza, pertussis and COVID-19 vaccination. In this Review, we examine scientific advances in the next generation of maternal vaccines, including mRNA, protein conjugate, nanoparticle and combination approaches, and candidates against emerging and other priority pathogens. We discuss barriers to including pregnant women in trials, assess regulatory and pharmacovigilance readiness, and identify health-system and vaccine-confidence risks to equitable rollout. We offer strategic recommendations for Europe's maternal immunisation roadmap, from research investment to policy integration, provider education, and equity-centred planning. Realising this potential will require integrated action across research, regulation, implementation, and communication. This is the final paper in the Series on the future of maternal vaccination in Europe and synthesises its findings into a framework for Europe and beyond.

RevDate: 2026-10-25
CmpDate: 2026-10-25

Sokolov AV, Elizarova AY, TY Bogoslovskaya (2026)

Transferrin Receptor as a Target for Regulation of Ferroptosis and Some Viral Infections.

Biochemistry. Biokhimiia, 91(10):1878-1890.

This review is devoted to molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis, a type of programmed cell death dependent on lipid peroxidation and limited by iron influx, mediated by the transferrin receptor (TfR1 or CD71). In addition to the iron-saturated transferrin, ligands of transferrin receptor also include its homologues lactoferrin and melanotransferrin, as well as heavy-chain ferritin and heme complex with human serum albumin. Activation of ferroptosis, including by increasing the labile pool of iron in tumor cells, is considered a promising strategy for combating cancer. However, a number of pathogenic human viruses, including influenza virus, SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, and rabies virus, use binding with TfR1 to infect cells and affect ferroptosis. The review summarizes information on natural and synthetic TfR1 regulators, including the mechanisms of their influence on the development of ferroptosis and the prospects for their use as antiviral agents.

RevDate: 2026-10-24

Song YH, Wang RY, Xiang YS, et al (2026)

Bioactive constituents in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) against SARS-CoV-2: Antiviral activity, mechanisms, metabolism and safety.

Journal of integrative medicine pii:S2095-4964(26)00126-3 [Epub ahead of print].

Although the global impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has declined, continued circulation and viral evolution highlight the sustained need for effective therapeutic strategies. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continuously evolves through genetic mutations to enhance its adaptability to hosts, thereby posing significant challenges to global public health. Consequently, the discovery of novel antiviral agents remains imperative. Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen), a widely utilized traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has demonstrated preclinical antiviral activity in silico, in vitro and in animal models. However, existing evidence on Danshen's bioactive constituents against SARS-CoV-2 is predominantly preclinical. Further clinical investigations are required to validate the antiviral efficacy of isolated monomers. Consequently, a systematic understanding of these aspects remains incomplete. This review summarizes the preclinical antiviral activity and underlying mechanisms of bioactive constituents derived from Danshen against SARS-CoV-2, together with their metabolism and safety profiles. By synthesizing these findings, we aim to provide insights into the potential of these constituents for further development, thereby guiding the discovery of natural antiviral lead compounds against SARS-CoV-2 and future emerging viral infections. Please cite this article as: Song YH, Wang RY, Xiang YS, Yu DM, Li HT, Lu JN, Qin PC, Li YX, Zhang CC, Chen LL. Bioactive constituents in Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge (Danshen) against SARS-CoV-2: Antiviral activity, mechanisms, metabolism and safety. J Integr Med. 2026; Epub ahead of print.

RevDate: 2026-10-24
CmpDate: 2026-10-24

Shanks GD (2026)

Respiratory mortality in prisons during the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic.

Internal medicine journal, 56(10):1847-1850.

Prisons are among the most controlled human environments, and prisoners often suffer epidemic disease when influenza is introduced into these restricted populations. A review of contemporary records of five prison systems during the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic showed that most prison populations did remarkably well under lockdown, with few resulting respiratory deaths. Exceptional prisons with high respiratory mortality included the Andaman Islands prison colony (17.3/1000) and the US Army Disciplinary Barracks (42/1000) at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Factors that likely resulted in high respiratory mortality included the absence of earlier waves of influenza-like illness and increased prisoner turnover introducing additional respiratory bacteria strains. Prison staff often had influenza rates that were very different to those of the prisoners they were guarding. Although free populations resented social restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, controlling population movements can serve to limit respiratory pathogen spread while waiting for alternative public health measures such as immunisations to arrive.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-24

Zhu L, Yang X, Tan J, et al (2026)

High-flow nasal cannula versus standard oxygen therapy for adult acute hypoxemic respiratory failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis and GRADE assessment.

BMC pulmonary medicine, 26(1):.

BACKGROUND: High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is widely used as an early respiratory support strategy for adults with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF). Although HFNC may reduce the risk of endotracheal intubation, it remains uncertain whether the available evidence is sufficiently mature and whether this potential benefit translates into improved survival. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis (TSA) and GRADE assessment to assess HFNC versus standard oxygen therapy (SOT) in adult AHRF.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched from inception to March 31, 2026. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of HFNC versus SOT in adults with AHRF were included. The primary and secondary outcomes were endotracheal intubation and all-cause mortality, respectively. For each dichotomous outcome, the risk ratio (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was pooled using a random-effects model. Prespecified subgroup analyses were performed. TSA was performed for intubation, and evidence certainty was assessed using GRADE.

RESULTS: Ten independent RCTs reported across 11 publications were included. Compared with SOT, HFNC was associated with a lower risk of endotracheal intubation (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.77-0.93; P < 0.01; I² = 40%), but did not reduce all-cause mortality (RR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.88-1.16; P = 0.85; I² = 0%). Subgroup analyses suggested a lower intubation risk with HFNC among non-immunocompromised patients, patients with COVID-19, and those with baseline PaO₂/FiO₂ ≤ 200 mmHg, although no statistically significant subgroup interactions were observed. In the primary TSA, the accrued sample size represented only 36.8% of the diversity-adjusted required information size. The cumulative Z-curve crossed the conventional significance boundary, but not the trial sequential monitoring boundary. TSA sensitivity analyses yielded consistent findings, indicating that current evidence remains inconclusive. GRADE certainty was low for endotracheal intubation and moderate for all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS: HFNC may reduce the risk of endotracheal intubation compared with SOT in adults with AHRF, but a survival benefit has not been demonstrated.

RevDate: 2026-10-24
CmpDate: 2026-10-24

Ngan VSH, Mo J, Wong OKP, et al (2026)

Creating online cognitive assessment platform for children's literacy and math skills: a case study illustrated with the ACE kids platform.

Frontiers in human neuroscience, 20:1882555.

Computerized versions of paper-and-pencil tests made behavioral assessments of children more automatic and precise. The COVID-19 pandemic further demonstrated the need for assessments to be offered online to allow for remote data collection. However, the design and implementation of computerized tests in an online environment come with various challenges. This article probes the issues, needs and challenges for the development of online assessment of reading and maths, and related cognitive abilities. The paper aims to inform researchers about logistical and technical considerations of developing a customized platform for online child data collection, including (a) technical considerations, (b) interface design, (c) data management, and (d) planning for validation against paper-and-pencil measures. These issues are illustrated with experiences gleaned from the development of an online assessment platform (ACE Kids platform), designed to deliver over 40 tests and questionnaires related to Chinese and English literacy as well as mathematics abilities in K3 - P6 children. The paper also highlights the unique challenges surrounding building online, self-directed biliteracy assessment involving a large assessment battery. Furthermore, we discuss features that improve the ease of use, instructional clarity, and retention of attention. We discussed the use of questionnaires to sample child usage experience during early stages of assessment development to optimize design. Finally, we give consolidated advice for the planning, development and data collection stages for such a customized assessment platform.

RevDate: 2026-10-24
CmpDate: 2026-10-24

Gallo CO, de Azevedo LN, PC Jaime (2026)

Use of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System in epidemiological studies on the nutrition profile of the Brazilian population: a scoping review, Brazil, 2008-2025.

Epidemiologia e servicos de saude : revista do Sistema Unico de Saude do Brasil, 35:e20251036.

OBJECTIVES: To identify and characterize the scientific literature on the use of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (SISVAN) in the description and analysis of the nutrition profile of the Brazilian population who use the Brazilian Unified Health System.

METHODS: This is a scoping review. Document selection occurred independently in stages previously defined in a research protocol. The review included primary studies, reviews, and grey literature that underwent peer review and produced evidence from quantitative information on nutrition status held on SISVAN Web, for all populations and locations. Data extraction was standardized, and publications were analyzed according to a glossary developed to standardize methodological aspects.

RESULTS: A total of 1,294 records were identified, and 161 were analyzed after applying the eligibility criteria. There was a significant increase in publications, especially from 2021 onwards, with emphasis on ecological time-series designs, which have adopted robust methods to analyze SISVAN data. Twenty-nine studies were identified that worked with individualized data, with cross-sectional or retrospective cohort analysis. The most studied life stage was childhood, particularly up to 5 years of age. In 40 studies, the data source was stratified, and most used data from the Bolsa Família Program. Pernambuco, Minas Gerais and Bahia were the states most studied. Some studies investigated the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on SISVAN indicators or used georeferencing/spatial analysis methods.

CONCLUSION: This review presented the state of the art of scientific production using nutrition information from SISVAN and characterized methodological aspects, thus informing future research.

RevDate: 2026-10-24
CmpDate: 2026-10-24

Nayebhashemi M, Akhavan M, Foroohari A, et al (2026)

Local Delivery of Interferon-β1a for Respiratory Viral Infections: A Systematic Review.

Reviews in medical virology, 36(6):.

Respiratory viral infections represent a major global health burden, with impaired antiviral interferon responses contributing to disease progression in several respiratory conditions. This systematic review evaluated the efficacy, safety, and biological effects of locally delivered intranasal or inhaled interferon-β1a (IFN-β1a), a host-directed antiviral therapy, across prophylactic, therapeutic, and experimental models of respiratory viral infections. A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines by searching PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, patent databases, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to July 2025. Peer-reviewed clinical and experimental studies, as well as relevant patent records, were identified. Patent and grey-literature sources were examined to provide a comprehensive overview of the development of locally delivered IFN-β1a and to identify relevant technological approaches that might not be captured in conventional bibliographic databases; however, these records were not considered evidence of clinical efficacy or safety. Eligible clinical and experimental evidence included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), in vitro, and in vivo studies. Owing to substantial clinical and methodological heterogeneity, findings were synthesised using a structured narrative and stratified approach rather than quantitative pooling. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 for RCTs, ToxRTool for in vitro studies, and the SYRCLE tool for in vivo studies. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, including 12 RCTs, seven in vitro studies, one in vivo study, and four patent reports. Preclinical evidence consistently demonstrated antiviral and immunomodulatory activity, including reduced viral replication and induction of interferon-stimulated genes. Clinical studies demonstrated consistent antiviral activity and immune modulation (e.g., ISG upregulation, viral load reduction). However, clinically meaningful benefit varied across populations and was most consistent in asthma, COPD, and hospitalised COVID-19 patients, whereas other trials did not demonstrate significant improvements in their primary clinical outcomes. Early prophylactic studies in rhinovirus infection showed limited and inconsistent clinical preventive efficacy despite detectable antiviral activity. Pharmacokinetic studies supported effective airway delivery, while safety findings indicated generally favourable tolerability with predominantly mild, transient adverse events. Available evidence indicates that intranasal or inhaled IFN-β may enhance antiviral immunity and provide clinical benefit in selected respiratory viral conditions, particularly among individuals with impaired antiviral responses. However, evidence for prophylactic efficacy against community-acquired upper respiratory tract infections remains limited, and further studies are required to define optimal indications, dosing strategies, and target populations.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Field DJ, de Wit J, Dixon D, et al (2026)

Risk reconsidered: insights from a data saturation analysis of sexual health research amongst gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men.

Culture, health & sexuality, 28(11):1261-1272.

This study explored how risk in the context of sexual health is conceptualised in research related to gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men during a period of major biomedical change, including the scale-up of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and the Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) campaign, prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. A systematic search across Medline (OVID), CINAHL, and Scopus identified studies published and/or with data collected between 2015 and 2020, from high-income countries in the Global North. A novel saturation-based approach, adapted from qualitative research, was used to determine when no new implicit or explicit conceptualisations of risk were evident. Ten initial papers were reviewed, followed by sets of three, stopping after saturation was reached at 24 papers. The word 'risk' appeared 722 times across included studies. Hundreds of distinct implicit and explicit conceptualisations were identified and grouped according to five interconnected dimensions: health outcomes, and their focus on biomedical, behavioural, interpersonal, and individual factors. Findings highlight the pervasive yet variable use of 'risk' in the sexual health literature, which may hinder clear communication between researchers, clinicians, and service users. Study findings support calls for the use of more precise language.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Pinto TF, Santoro A, Grossi de Oliveira AL, et al (2026)

Risk of post-acute symptoms and conditions after SARS-CoV-2 compared with other respiratory viral infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases, 172:109056.

OBJECTIVES: How post-COVID-19 condition differs from post-acute infection syndromes caused by other respiratory viruses remains uncertain. Comparing these conditions may clarify whether post-acute symptoms reflect specific consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection or broader post-viral mechanisms.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies comparing persistent symptoms or conditions in adults after SARS-CoV-2 infection with those following other acute respiratory viral infections. PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched. Random-effects models were used to estimate pooled risks.

RESULTS: Among 9371 records screened, 22 studies were included, and 14 contributed to the meta-analysis. Increased risks after SARS-CoV-2 infection were observed for pulmonary embolism, abnormal breathing, fatigue, hemorrhagic stroke, memory loss/brain fog, and palpitations; heart rate abnormalities showed borderline significance. For most other outcomes, pooled estimates did not indicate significantly higher risks than those after other acute respiratory viral infections.

CONCLUSION: Our findings support the concept of post-COVID-19 condition as one example within the broader spectrum of post-acute infection syndromes, underscoring the need to recognize these conditions after non-COVID respiratory viral infections and to further investigate shared and pathogen-specific mechanisms.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Wouters CL, Froehlich CE, Nguyen TB, et al (2026)

Recent Advances in Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy for Virus Detection.

ACS sensors, 11(9):7722-7731.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the importance of virus detection and development of new diagnostics for emerging or evolving viruses has been a major focus in the field of bioanalytical sensing. Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) is one technique for virus detection that has taken off in academic research but has not yet transitioned into widespread commercial use despite its enormous potential as a sensitive and specific sensing technology. Herein, we briefly summarize advances in SERS as applied to virus detection over the past 5 years, as there has been rapid development and growth resulting from the need to develop COVID-19 sensors, including critical analysis of the directions of the field. We compare label-free and labeled detection schemes and highlight machine-learning-enabled sensing, with a focus on viruses relevant to human health. Opportunities are proposed and understudied areas are identified in virus SERS sensing alongside outlooks for the field, including the use of moderate affinity agents to facilitate multiplex sensing and adaptation of machine learning algorithms from fields beyond sensing.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Walkley E, Hall K, Hopkinson D, et al (2026)

Waiting for elective orthopaedic surgery: a qualitative scoping review of the patient experience.

International journal for quality in health care : journal of the International Society for Quality in Health Care, 38(4):.

BACKGROUND: Public health waiting lists for elective or planned orthopaedic surgery are increasing to the point where demand far exceeds our ability to treat. This is largely due to ageing populations, rising obesity and the continued impact of delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. While waiting, patients suffer debilitating physical pain, functional limitation, social isolation, and associated mental health impacts while some are unable to work. This qualitative scoping review explored and mapped the experiences of patients of waiting for elective or planned orthopaedic surgery.

METHODS: This review was conducted according to the Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Review methodology and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews. A comprehensive database search was conducted to identify English-language articles from 2009 until June 2025. Data extraction was informed by the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research. Results were thematically analysed and presented using the Quality Health Outcomes Model.

RESULTS: The initial search identified 4713 articles, of which 21 manuscripts met inclusion criteria. The 21 articles comprised 17 primary qualitative research studies and four review articles published within the designated time period (2009-2025). Two key themes were identified: (i) patients waiting for elective orthopaedic surgery need psychosocial support and (ii) system-level, multifactorial communication issues with the waiting list leave patients feeling lost between primary and specialist care. These themes suggest that the challenges faced due to lengthy elective surgery waiting lists are not simply a capacity issue, but also a challenge of coordinated, patient- centred care.

CONCLUSION: Waiting for surgery is consistently described by patients as a source of anxiety and distress. With waiting list times for elective surgery increasing, the experience can be improved in part with adequate communication from healthcare providers. A re-focus on what matters most to the patient and their family is required in order to deliver adequate patient-centred care while patients wait for surgery.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Szułdrzyński K, Jankowski M, Molnar Z, et al (2026)

Clinical Outcomes and Complications of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) in Adult Patients With COVID-19 in Central and Eastern Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Medical science monitor : international medical journal of experimental and clinical research, 32:e954002 pii:954002.

BACKGROUND Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a rescue therapy for severe COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). International datasets do not consistently report Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) separately. We aimed to assess mortality, clinical characteristics, and complications of ECMO-treated COVID-19 patients across the CEE region. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted a systematic review with single-arm meta-analyses of observational studies. PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from January 2020 to August 2025 for studies reporting ECMO outcomes in adult (≥18 years) COVID-19 patients from CEE countries, with at least 10 ECMO-treated patients. Conference abstracts and overlapping cohorts were excluded. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251077593). RESULTS Twelve studies included 802 patients from 6 countries. Pooled in-hospital mortality was 65% (95% CI 0.57-0.72; I[2]=70.6%; 10 studies; n=691), and ICU mortality was 61% (95% CI 0.47-0.74; I[2]=85.8%; 7 studies, n=526). Country-level in-hospital mortality estimates were 54% for the Czech Republic and 76% for Poland but were descriptive because of the small number of studies and wide CIs. Mean pre-ECMO mechanical ventilation duration was 4.8 days (95% CI 3.7-5.8; I[2]=4.4%), ECMO duration was 17.8 days (95% CI 12.8-22.9; I[2]=79.8%), and ICU length of stay was 23.6 days (95% CI 7.5-39.7; I[2]=92.6%). Serious bleeding occurred in 40% (95% CI 22-61%; I[2]=85.7%). Certainty was very low for all pooled outcomes. CONCLUSIONS These CEE-specific estimates provide regional benchmarks, but substantial heterogeneity and very low certainty limit international comparisons and country-level interpretation. Standardized regional registries, prospective multicenter data, harmonized complication reporting, and long-term outcome assessment are needed.

RevDate: 2026-10-22

Lass-Flörl C, Steixner S, A Bauer (2026)

Invasive fungal diseases in immunocompetent adults: emerging patterns and clinical challenges.

Future microbiology [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) have traditionally been regarded as complications of classical immunosuppression. However, IFDs are increasingly recognized in adults who are apparently immunocompetent or non-neutropenic, particularly in the setting of severe viral pneumonia, critical illness, diabetes, structural lung disease, surgery, trauma or burns, injection or inhalational drug use, invasive devices, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and previously unrecognized immune dysregulation.

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review summarizes emerging patterns and clinical challenges of IFD in apparently immunocompetent adults, integrating invasive molds, endemic dimorphic fungi, and invasive yeasts.

KEY OBSERVATIONS: The current landscape includes influenza- and COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis, COVID-19-associated mucormycosis, acute invasive mold disease in critically ill patients, tissue-injury- and trauma-associated mold infections, severe endemic mycoses after relevant environmental exposure, and an expanding spectrum of invasive yeasts. The label "immunocompetent" often conceals situational immune dysfunction or an undiagnosed inborn or acquired immune defect. Cohort data are available for several non-classical host groups, whereas evidence for truly healthy adults remains dominated by small series and case reports.

CONCLUSION: In adults without classical immunosuppression, IFD should be suspected when clinical deterioration occurs in the setting of acute illness, disruption of skin or mucosal barriers, indwelling catheters, healthcare exposure, unusual clinical syndromes, relevant geographic exposure, or unrecognized immune defects.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Zhou XJ, Zhu JC, Dong J, et al (2026)

Mapping programmable mRNA research relevant to cancer-associated immune escape: a dual-database bibliometric and topic modeling analysis.

Frontiers in oncology, 16:1957469.

BACKGROUND: Programmable messenger RNA (mRNA) platforms can encode tumor antigens or immunomodulators, enabling coordinated antigen delivery and immune modulation. Yet the literature spans cancer vaccination, delivery engineering, immune biology, and adjacent infectious-disease research, making its structure and evidentiary boundaries difficult to discern. We mapped this cross-domain corpus to clarify its development, organization, and relevance to cancer-associated immune escape.

METHODS: We searched the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) and Scopus on July 29, 2026, for English-language Articles and Reviews published since 2006. The strategy combined programmable or therapeutic mRNA, cancer, and immune-escape-related concepts. R-based analyses summarized the number of publications (NP), total citations (TC), and collaboration patterns; BERTopic modeled titles and abstracts after entity-aware preprocessing. Independent two-author review supported the five topic labels and characterized the outliers, and robustness was assessed across alternative clustering configurations.

RESULTS: The dataset comprised 756 publications (NP = 756). Annual output increased more than fourfold in 2021 and reached NP = 182 in 2025. China (NP = 291; 38.49%) and the United States (NP = 146; 19.31%) accounted for nearly 58% of corresponding-author publications. Sichuan University and Frontiers in Immunology ranked first in institutional and journal output, respectively. Nature had the highest retained source-record citation total (TC = 2,326). BERTopic assigned 745 publications to five topics, while 11 of 756 records remained outliers (1.46%). The topics represented mRNA delivery and immunomodulatory cancer-vaccine research (52.1%), SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in oncology and immunotherapy settings (23.6%), therapeutic mRNA cancer-vaccine platforms (13.3%), tumor-antigen discovery and immune-subtype stratification (8.6%), and mRNA-vaccine immunogenicity during autoimmune immunosuppression (2.4%).

CONCLUSIONS: Publication activity in the retrieved cross-domain corpus expanded rapidly after 2020. The corpus included both direct cancer-mRNA research and adjacent platform or immune-response literature. By distinguishing these components and identifying thematic connections among delivery, antigen selection, immune context, and collaboration, the analysis provides an evidence-navigation framework for prioritizing systematic reviews, mechanistic studies, and clinical evaluation. The map does not itself establish therapeutic efficacy.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Omercikoglu E, Bankar PL, Corro R, et al (2026)

Inhaled nitric oxide: Expanding indications beyond traditional boundaries.

JHLT open, 14:100697.

Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) is a selective pulmonary vasodilator that improves ventilation-perfusion matching with minimal effect on systemic blood pressure. Although the FDA approval is restricted to neonatal hypoxic respiratory failure associated with pulmonary hypertension, many clinicians now use iNO in adults with conditions where elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, right ventricular dysfunction threaten stability and hypoxic respiratory failure. This review examines both the mechanistic rationale and the available evidence for such off-label use. Examples range from acute RV failure in the ICU to perioperative support in cardiac surgery, heart and lung transplantation, and severe hypoxemic respiratory failure, including COVID-19-associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In these settings, iNO offers rapid afterload reduction and short-term improvement in oxygenation, but randomized trials are lacking and limited studies to date have failed to consistently show outcome benefits. Adverse effects such as methemoglobinemia, nitrogen dioxide toxicity, rebound pulmonary hypertension, and a potential increase in acute kidney injury risk in certain non-cardiac surgical populations. Additionally, cost considerations and other practical limitations must be weighed carefully. Overall, current evidence supports the use of iNO as an adjunctive therapy in carefully selected critically ill patients.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Li Z, Geng L, Li W, et al (2026)

A narrative review of stem cell-based therapy for fibrosing interstitial lung diseases: clinical evidence and translational perspectives.

Frontiers in pharmacology, 17:1917005.

Fibrosing interstitial lung diseases (F-ILD) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by pulmonary interstitial fibrosis and inflammation. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is the most common and severe form of F-ILD. Regulator-approved anti-fibrotic drugs, such as pirfenidone and nintedanib, delay rather than reverse disease progression, so the threat of eventual respiratory failure remains. While lung transplantation is an option that can prolong survival for end-stage IPF, its clinical application is greatly restricted by donor shortages, surgical risks, and postoperative complications. Stem cell therapies, and particularly treatments based on mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) and their derivatives, have brought new hope for the management of F-ILD due to their immune regulatory, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic capabilities. A search was conducted to identify relevant articles in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Internet and Wanfang Data from inception to 31st May 2026. This review summarizes the mechanistic overview of stem cell-based therapeutic strategies for F-ILD, safety profiles and therapeutic potentials of various stem cells for the treatment of IPF and other F-ILDs, with an emphasis on stem cell types and delivery routine. This article also discusses the challenges and limitations of stem cell-based therapies, highlighting the need for further clinical studies with standardized efficacy endpoints to validate their effectiveness.

RevDate: 2026-10-23

Mahdia LN, Huang G, Wabe N, et al (2026)

Mental Health Burden and Vulnerability Among Long-Term Care Facility Residents During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review With Exploratory Prevalence Meta-Analysis.

Journal of applied gerontology : the official journal of the Southern Gerontological Society [Epub ahead of print].

BackgroundOlder adults in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) faced social and care disruptions during COVID-19, but evidence on mental health burden and vulnerability remains fragmented.ObjectiveTo synthesise evidence on mental health outcomes among LTCF residents during the pandemic and identify resident- and facility-level vulnerability and protective conditions.MethodsMEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO were searched for English-language peer-reviewed studies published from January 2020 to January 2025. Findings were narratively synthesised, and exploratory random-effects meta-analyses were conducted where at least three studies reported extractable resident-level prevalence.ResultsThirty-two studies were included as follows: 24 quantitative, six qualitative and two mixed-methods. Most reported high prevalence, deterioration, or qualitative evidence of depression, anxiety, loneliness, isolation, or related distress. Pooled prevalence was 55.6% for depression, 51.4% for anxiety and 54.5% for loneliness, with substantial heterogeneity. Vulnerability reflected clinical, social and facility-level factors; consistent staffing, social connection and family communication were potential protective conditions.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Arredondo-Nontol MR, Garcia-Villegas D, Gonzaga-Vilchez R, et al (2026)

Knowledge, attitudes and practices about dengue vaccines in Latin America and the Caribbean: a scoping review.

Cadernos de saude publica, 42:e00259025.

Dengue remains a major public health concern in Latin America and the Caribbean, where vaccination has emerged as a key strategy to reduce severe disease. However, its successful implementation depends on population knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). This study aimed to synthesize available evidence on KAP related to dengue vaccination in the region. A scoping review was conducted following JBI guidelines. Searches were performed in international and regional databases, including MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, SciELO, and the Virtual Health Library. Original studies were included without language or date restrictions. Study selection and data extraction were conducted independently and in duplicate. Sixteen studies were included. Most studies reported limited knowledge regarding vaccine availability, safety, and mechanisms of action. In contrast, attitudes were generally favorable, with high acceptance and willingness to pay, estimated at approximately USD 23 for a three-dose regimen. However, willingness to participate in clinical trials remained low due to safety and trust concerns. Evidence from a study conducted in Puerto Rico indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with increased intention to receive the dengue vaccine. Practices were less studied, and findings showed low completion of vaccination schedules, indicating a gap between attitudes and uptake. Despite generally favorable attitudes, important knowledge gaps and implementation challenges persist. Strengthening educational strategies and promoting qualified communication between healthcare professionals and the population - particularly during the introduction of new vaccines and in the context of adverse events - may support informed decision-making and improve dengue vaccine uptake.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Moraes JF, Souza PHL, Andrade ML, et al (2026)

Central Nervous System Alterations in Individuals with Long COVID: A Systematic Review.

Revista da Sociedade Brasileira de Medicina Tropical, 59:e05192025.

Long COVID (post-COVID-19 condition) has been associated with persistent neurological and cognitive symptoms, suggesting possible central nervous system involvement beyond the acute phase of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. A systematic review of articles published up to April 2026 was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, and observational studies evaluating neurophysiological, structural, and functional alterations in individuals with long COVID were analyzed. Forty-two studies with substantial variability in design and methods were included; thus, the findings were synthesized narratively. The evidence indicates heterogeneous yet recurrent alterations in the central nervous system of individuals with lonf COVID, including impaired cortical excitability, abnormal cerebral oscillatory activity across multiple frequency bands, changes in functional connectivity, and structural abnormalities in neural networks. Some studies also reported imbalances in excitatory-inhibitory neurotransmission and biomarkers suggestive of neuroinflammation or axonal injury. These neurophysiological and structural alterations were commonly associated with persistent fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, and brain fog. However, the available evidence is limited by important methodological issues, including substantial heterogeneity in study populations, assessment techniques, and reported outcomes; the observational design also limited the strength of the conclusions. Taken together, the current evidence suggests a persistent and multifactorial central nervous system dysfunction in long COVID. However, definitive conclusions remain limited, and well-designed prospective longitudinal studies using standardized methods are needed to clarify the mechanisms, duration, and clinical relevance of these alterations.

RevDate: 2026-10-23

Yao J, Ye B, Chen R, et al (2026)

Neuroinflammatory mechanisms and pharmacological modulation of the lung-brain axis in post-viral pulmonary sequelae.

International immunopharmacology, 191(Pt 1):117583 pii:S1567-5769(26)01431-1 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Persistent respiratory sequelae following acute viral infections, exemplified by but not limited to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), represent a major unmet clinical challenge. Conventional anti-inflammatory strategies frequently fail to resolve these chronic symptoms, suggesting that additional pathogenic mechanisms, particularly neuroinflammatory processes, remain unaddressed.

MAIN BODY: This review synthesizes current evidence establishing neuroimmune axis dysfunction as an important mechanistic contributor to post-viral pulmonary sequelae, including chronic cough, airway hyperresponsiveness, and fibrotic remodeling. We systematically examine how viral infection alters the nervous system, and how these neural changes initiate and perpetuate neuroimmune axis dysfunction, subsequently orchestrating aberrant peripheral immune activation while impairing lung repair processes. Moreover, we critically appraise the emerging pharmacological landscape targeting this neuroinflammatory axis, spanning neuropeptide receptor antagonists, neuromodulation, and other mechanism-based strategies aimed at restoring neuroimmune homeostasis.

CONCLUSION: This review identifies neuroimmune axis dysfunction as a potential driver of persistent pulmonary sequelae and underscores the need for therapeutic strategies tailored to disease stage and clinical phenotype to enhance clinical translation.

RevDate: 2026-10-23

Zhao N, Sun Y, Liu Z, et al (2026)

The interplay between microplastics and respiratory viral diseases.

Environmental toxicology and pharmacology, 128:105202 pii:S1382-6689(26)00280-2 [Epub ahead of print].

Microplastics, recognised as pervasive environmental pollutants on a global scale, have been identified in various human organs. Inhalation is a primary exposure route for both microplastics and respiratory viruses, raising concerns about potential synergistic health hazards. This review synthetizes current understanding of the mechanisms underpinning their interactions, with a focus on the role of microplastics in facilitating viral entry, modulating host microenvironments through oxidative stress, inflammation, and compromised innate immunity, and enhancing viral invasion, replication, and transmission. Evidence shows that microplastics damage respiratory epithelium, generate reactive oxygen species, and trigger inflammation whilst dysregulating immune cells, worsening coronavirus and influenza virus infections, leading to more severe and prolonged lung damage. This review outlines recent progress in how microplastics influence susceptibility to and development of respiratory viral infections, offering a scientific basis for creating targeted environmental health strategies and enhancing research on viral resistance mechanisms.

RevDate: 2026-10-23

Ziorio-Dunlop R, Park T, H Symonds-Brown (2026)

Defining trauma-informed approaches and their purpose in nursing education: A scoping review.

Nurse education today, 169:107469 pii:S0260-6917(26)00497-1 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: A focus on nursing student trauma has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Scholars have turned to trauma-informed approaches to understand how nursing students can be better supported in their education and mitigate the effects of past, current, and future trauma exposure.

AIM: To examine the current published literature on how trauma-informed approaches to nursing education are described in the literature.

DESIGN: We conducted a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework. We used the PRISMA-ScR guidelines for reporting of findings.

METHODS: We performed searches in June 2024 and then again in June 2025 in Medline via OVID, CINAHL via EBSCO, ERIC, PsycInfo, Education Research Complete, and Scopus. We included literature published in English in any year that focused on nursing students and/or nurse educators, included a definition of a trauma-informed approach (TIA) and involved any education context.

RESULTS: 35 sources were included, published between 2020 and 2025. Study types included 11 descriptions of implementing a TIA and 6 unstructured reviews supporting its implementation. 10 sources were primary research. Findings included descriptive categories of definitions of a TIA, sources of nursing students' exposure to trauma (in their education, personal lives, and specifically COVID-19), and the purpose of a TIA (success in education and the creation of a future workforce).

CONCLUSIONS: TIA to support student learning and develop the future nursing workforce are increasingly prevalent and recommended in the nursing education literature. Terminology and definitions of TIA varied but often shared commonalities, with some specifically addressing structural inequities. Differences between definitions that highlight structural inequities specifically need to be examined for how they differ from more common definitions. The student perspective on resilience and TIA effectiveness is needed. Conceptualizations of TIA must also address how they might reinforce power structures within educational institutions, thereby avoiding the reproduction of inequities.

RevDate: 2026-10-23
CmpDate: 2026-10-23

Rafeeq H, Khokhar AM, Siddique R, et al (2026)

Graphene-based nanomaterials in biosensing: current advances, challenges, and future directions for precision diagnostics.

Discover nano, 21(1):.

BACKGROUND: Graphene-based nanomaterials (GBNs), including graphene oxide, reduced graphene oxide, graphene quantum dots, and their composites, combine ultra-high surface area, superior conductivity, and tunable optical properties, making them powerful materials for ultra-sensitive biosensing.

AIM AND SCOPE: Unlike earlier descriptive, platform-specific surveys, this review is organised around structure-property-performance relationships and applies a uniform critical lens to the primary literature.

METHODS: We examine optical (fluorescence, surface plasmon resonance, colorimetric, SERS), electrochemical, and field-effect transistor (FET) biosensors. We compare them head-to-head on sensitivity, reproducibility, scalability, and clinical readiness.

KEY FINDINGS: GBN platforms detect pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, cancer biomarkers, metabolites, and environmental toxins with high sensitivity and selectivity. However, many reported ultra-low detection limits are extrapolated from buffer calibrations rather than measured, and they are rarely validated in blinded clinical cohorts. Some are also physically implausible given the number of target molecules in the assay volume.

CHALLENGES: Key barriers are cytotoxicity, non-specific binding, irreproducible synthesis, and regulatory validation. For FETs specifically, the main obstacles are Debye screening, baseline drift, and poor wafer-scale yield.

CONCLUSIONS: AI-assisted signal processing, wearable and implantable devices, and 3D-printed multi-analyte lab-on-a-chip systems are critical future directions. Addressing these challenges through interdisciplinary effort could make GBN biosensors a foundation for personalized, point-of-care healthcare.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Flegg C, Barczak A, Fienberg S, et al (2026)

CAR/BRC Recommendations for Management of Axillary Lymphadenopathy Following COVID-19 Vaccination.

Canadian Association of Radiologists journal = Journal l'Association canadienne des radiologistes, 77(4):670-673.

Axillary lymphadenopathy following vaccination has long been recognized as a benign, self-limited immune response, but its increased frequency during the COVID 19 vaccination campaign created diagnostic uncertainty and contributed to delays in breast imaging and unnecessary follow-up. Early conservative guidance, issued in the context of limited evidence, led to postponed screening examinations and increased patient anxiety. Since then, robust prospective and longitudinal data have demonstrated an extremely low, near-zero risk of malignancy in asymptomatic patients with isolated ipsilateral axillary lymphadenopathy following recent COVID 19 vaccination and no suspicious breast imaging findings, even when lymphadenopathy persists for many months. In response to this evolving evidence base, the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) and Breast Radiologists of Canada (BRC) have developed updated, evidence-based recommendations for the management of axillary lymphadenopathy following COVID 19 vaccination. These recommendations emphasize that breast imaging examinations should not be delayed because of vaccination, outline the importance of documenting vaccination history, and provide clear guidance for classifying and managing ipsilateral, contralateral, palpable, and persistent lymphadenopathy across breast imaging modalities. Special considerations for patients with a personal history of breast cancer or other malignancies are also addressed. Adoption of these recommendations is intended to promote consistent national practice, reduce unnecessary imaging and biopsy, support patient reassurance, and maintain the effectiveness of breast cancer screening programs.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Mohapatra PR, B Mishra (2026)

Common Cold-An Update.

The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, 74(9):77-82.

The common cold, a mild yet highly prevalent upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), imposes a substantial societal and economic burden through healthcare costs, lost productivity, and widespread morbidity. Primarily caused by diverse respiratory viruses (e.g., rhinoviruses, coronaviruses), it encompasses a spectrum of acute infections affecting the nasal passages, throat, larynx, and bronchi, manifesting as rhinitis, pharyngitis, or bronchitis. Framed by the "iceberg concept" of disease, most cases are mild or asymptomatic, yet severe outcomes (e.g., exacerbations of chronic conditions) contribute to rare mortality. Management focuses on symptom relief: decongestants and antihistamines alleviate nasal congestion and cough in adults, though cough suppressants are discouraged in children. Despite its self-limiting nature, the common cold underscores challenges in primary care due to viral diversity and a lack of targeted therapies. Annual influenza vaccination, while not preventing colds, mitigates flu-related complications, indirectly reducing overlapping URTI burdens. Public health strategies emphasizing prevention, symptom management, and judicious antibiotic use remain critical to curbing its widespread impact.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Roy P, Ray S, BK Patro (2026)

Understanding Obesity through a Public Health Lens.

The Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, 74(8):68-73.

Obesity is a complex and chronic public health challenge that reflects deep-rooted social, economic, and environmental determinants rather than solely individual choices. Its global prevalence has risen sharply over recent decades, affecting more than one in eight people worldwide, with a growing burden in low- and middle-income countries. This paper explores obesity as a complex and growing public health challenge that extends beyond individual behavior. It highlights the social, economic, and environmental factors driving the epidemic, with a focus on the Indian context where undernutrition and overnutrition coexist. Recent research, population data, and policy reports were reviewed to analyze current trends, determinants, and the limitations of traditional measures such as the body mass index (BMI). Particular attention was given to South Asian populations, who are prone to obesity-related diseases at lower BMI thresholds. Global obesity rates have risen sharply, now affecting more than one in eight people, with a marked increase in low- and middle-income countries. In India, urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and the easy availability of ultraprocessed foods have accelerated the problem across all age groups. The COVID-19 pandemic worsened the situation through reduced physical activity, stress, and food-system disruptions. Conventional BMI measures underestimate true metabolic risk in South Asians, underscoring the need for more nuanced diagnostic approaches. Obesity adds significantly to the burden of noncommunicable diseases and demands multisectoral action through healthier food policies, physical activity promotion, and early prevention. Integrating these strategies into health systems is vital to reduce its long-term impact.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Lange JK, Plovsing RTR, Lange P, et al (2026)

[Overweight and lung diseases].

Ugeskrift for laeger, 188(41): pii:V02260092.

Overweight increases dyspnea and cough. Overweight patients with asthma experience more symptoms, frequent exacerbations and have poorer effects of asthma medications. In COPD, light and moderate overweight are associated with a better prognosis, whereas severe overweight is not. Similar protective effects of overweight have been reported in severe bacterial pneumonia and ARDS, but not in COVID-19 or severe influenza. This review finds that the beneficial effects of weight loss are best documented in asthma and in respiratory sleep-related disorders.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Yu R, Chen A, Y Zhang (2023)

SARS-CoV-2: Possible role in children with acute hepatitis of unknown origin.

hLife, 1(2):83-92.

The UK raised an alert with the World Health Organization (WHO) in April 2022 concerning a significant surge in the number of children diagnosed with acute hepatitis of unknown origin (AHUO). Despite an ongoing investigation attributing its etiology to adenovirus infection, the absence of adenovirus inclusions in liver biopsies and the remarkably low viral load raised doubts. Concurrently, reports of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections in children coincided with the surge in acute hepatitis cases, prompting the need for a thorough examination of the potential connection between current or past SARS-CoV-2 infections and pediatric hepatitis epidemics. Epidemiological data suggests that acute hepatitis is a notable manifestation of the multiple-system inflammatory syndrome in children following the global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, the precise role of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in liver injury etiology remains uncertain. To shed light on the potential association between SARS-CoV-2 and AHUO in children, we conducted a systematic review of epidemiological links, potential pathogenesis, and recent research findings, aiming to raise awareness and vigilance among clinicians. Convincing and definitive evidence will be essential in the future to confirm the direct impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on children with AHUO.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Lin Y, Hu Z, Fu YX, et al (2024)

Mucosal vaccine development for respiratory viral infections.

hLife, 2(2):50-63.

Mucosal vaccines have risen to prominence in the corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic due to their ability to elicit both local antibody and tissue-resident T cell responses, affording a dual-layered defense against infection and transmission at respiratory entry sites. While intramuscular vaccines predominantly focus on systemic immunity, mucosal vaccines offer a more nuanced, site-specific approach. However, the field faces a dearth of mucosal vaccine options for respiratory diseases, starkly contrasting to the extensive array of well-characterized injectable vaccines. The unique features of mucosal surfaces necessitate specialized adjuvants and delivery systems, adding complexity to adapting injectable vaccine technologies for mucosal applications. Here, we review the recent insights into the specificities of respiratory mucosal immunology that provide a foundation for future innovations besides the emerging vaccine platforms, newly discovered adjuvants, and vaccine delivery systems, which may open promising avenues for developing mucosal vaccines targeting respiratory pathogens.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Gao X, Liu C, S Wang (2023)

Mucosal immune responses in the lung during respiratory infection: The organization and regulation of iBALT structure.

hLife, 1(2):71-82.

The local immune defenses of respiratory system play a crucial role in safeguarding against pathogens and eliminating infected cells. In this article, we review the current knowledge regarding the establishment and regulation of local immune responses within the lungs, with a particular focus on the formation of inducible bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (iBALT), which has demonstrated a capacity to mount protective immune responses against several pathogens, including influenza virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)/SARS-CoV-2, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Furthermore, we explore the development and regulation of long-term immune memory within the lungs, which may be facilitated by iBALT. This review aims to provide a summary of potential targets within iBALT for pathogen defense and vaccine design.

RevDate: 2026-10-22
CmpDate: 2026-10-22

Sheng W, Wang H, Y Li (2026)

Organoid application in virology research: Recent progress and emerging directions.

Infectious diseases & immunity, 6(4):299-307.

Organoids, as in vitro three-dimensional structures derived from stem cell differentiation, have emerged as cutting-edge technologies in biomedical research due to their effectiveness in mimicking the complex architectures and physiological functions of human organs. Currently, researchers worldwide are extensively exploring the application of organoids in virology and have achieved remarkable progress. These innovations have enabled the successful cultivation of various viruses in vitro, the modeling of viral infection processes, and the clarification of cell tropism and host factor interactions. They have also advanced systematic explanations of related pathogenic mechanisms, providing an important avenue for antiviral drug screening and vaccine design. This paper elaborates on the biological characteristics of organoids, summarizes the methodologies for establishing virus-infected organoid models, and reviews advances in research on viruses such as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, influenza viruses, hepatitis viruses, Zika virus, and human noroviruses. This review will clarify how organoids have profoundly changed our understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of viruses and accelerated the clinical translation of antiviral strategies.

RevDate: 2026-10-22

Guo X, Kaiser NR, SL Campbell (2026)

Viral Infection-Induced Epilepsy and the Gut Microbiome Crosstalk.

WIREs mechanisms of disease, 18(5):.

Viral infections of the central nervous system (CNS) pose a significant risk for seizures, and in some cases, long-term epileptogenesis. Seizure development following viral infection involves diverse CNS mechanisms, with emerging evidence that peripheral factors, including gut microbiome composition and immune-inflammatory responses, also contribute. The gut microbiome is a multifaceted ecosystem with important roles in CNS health, and advances in sequencing have enabled investigation of host and microbial genomic changes associated with seizure development. While both animal and human studies link gut dysbiosis to epilepsy, including infection-induced epilepsy, the specific effects of viral-induced seizures on the gut microbiome remain unclear. Moreover, the influence of virus-triggered epileptogenesis is not well understood. This review summarizes current knowledge on viral infections linked to seizures and highlights the limited but growing evidence for gut microbial changes in this context. We focus on Zika virus (ZIKV), West Nile virus (WNV), and herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), all implicated in human epileptogenesis, though direct microbiome-seizure connections are still limited. We also discuss severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes neurological symptoms without consistently inducing seizures in rodent models despite neurological involvement, and Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV), a murine virus widely used as a model of infection-induced seizures because it induces strain-dependent seizures in mice. Current evidence suggests associations among viral infections, gut microbiome alterations, and seizure occurrence; however, further causative studies are needed to define their roles and elucidate underlying mechanisms.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Fernàndez-López L (2026)

Community-Based Rapid Testing for HIV in Europe and Central Asia: A Narrative Review of Models, Effectiveness, and Implementation Challenges.

Infection and drug resistance, 19:541591.

This narrative review examines the evolution, implementation, and impact of Community-Based HIV Testing (CBT) across Europe and Central Asia (ECA), a region where late diagnosis remains a persistent challenge and key populations continue to face substantial structural, legal, and social barriers to accessing conventional healthcare. This review synthesises evidence from academic studies, surveillance reports, and European initiatives to describe the diverse modalities of CBT, as well as their contribution to earlier diagnosis, improved case-finding among first-time testers, and more timely linkage to care. Across the region, CBT showed higher acceptability and positivity yields than facility-based testing, reaching populations disproportionately affected by HIV, such as men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs, migrants, and sex workers, and supports differentiated, person-centred service delivery aligned with World Health Organization and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control guidance. Despite clear progress, major implementation gaps persist, driven by restrictive regulatory frameworks, uneven adoption of innovations such as lay provider testing and HIV self-testing, limited integration of community-generated data into national surveillance systems, and structural inequities including stigma, criminalisation, and lack of universal healthcare entitlements. This review also notes the resilience and adaptability of community-based models during recent crises, including COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. Overall, the evidence demonstrates that CBT is a fundamental component of HIV prevention and diagnosis in ECA. Fully realising its potential requires updated policies that enable task-sharing, integration of multi-disease testing, strong referral pathways, sustainable financing, and formal incorporation of community-generated data into national monitoring frameworks. Strengthening these components is essential to accelerate progress toward the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Halma M (2024)

Alterations of SARS-CoV-2 Evolutionary Dynamics by Pharmaceutical Factors.

Infectious diseases & immunity, 4(1):35-40.

The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) has been influenced by the human response to the virus. These responses have undoubtedly impacted the evolutionary dynamics of the virus in ways distinct from a scenario lacking a widespread response. Two important pharmaceutical interventions, vaccination and the utilization of medications, particularly molnupiravir, known to have mutagenic properties, were the focus of this article. The impact of molnupiravir on human health was evaluated through 3 mechanisms: viral resistance, mutagenesis of SARS-CoV-2, and mutagenesis occurring in patients undergoing treatment with molnupiravir. These mechanisms, as well as the impact of vaccination, have inadvertently given rise to unforeseen challenges in the management of the COVID-19 crisis. Taking a systems view in future pandemic responses, and taking into account the evolution of the pandemic virus, may be critical to ending the pandemic at an earlier date.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Xiang Y, Sun G, Xiang P, et al (2026)

Confronting the known unknown: historical lessons and future strategies for Disease X.

Frontiers in public health, 14:1833807.

The 2026 outbreak of Nipah virus in West Bengal, India, a known WHO priority pathogen, serves as a timely reminder of the constant threat from high-consequence emerging diseases and underscores the critical relevance of Disease X-a future pandemic caused by an unknown pathogen. The profound global health and economic impact of COVID-19 has made the potential devastation of Disease X tangible. However, despite the insights gained from COVID-19, significant gaps remain in translating this awareness into an effective, coordinated, and pre-emptive preparedness strategy. This review advances an integrated response framework built around a One Health surveillance diagnostic therapeutic continuum. This foundational system enables real-time pathogen tracking and host immune profiling across human, animal, and environmental interfaces. Insights generated through this continuum directly inform the timely activation of non-pharmaceutical interventions, guide dynamic modeling, and enable the precise deployment of rapid medical countermeasures. Furthermore, these measures should be supported by resilient health infrastructure and equitable data sharing mechanisms, and be embedded within a governance model that prioritizes global collaboration and equity. Ultimately, mitigating Disease X requires a unified strategy that seamlessly integrates continuous monitoring, diagnostics, and treatment within a resilient and equitable operational architecture, thereby transforming pandemic preparedness from concept into reality.

RevDate: 2026-09-26
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Mostafa MEA, Ahmed AE, Abdulqader MN, et al (2026)

Antiviral Properties of Green-Synthesized Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Against Coronaviruses: A Review.

International journal of microbiology, 2026:7207868.

It is acknowledged that COVID-19 pandemic triggered by SARS-CoV-2 outbreak demands the development of efficient antiviral modalities independent of traditional vaccines and antiviral reagents. Metallic nanoparticles, such as silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) and zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs), have attracted considerable attention as promising antiviral agents due to their distinctive physicochemical properties and universal antimicrobial activity. This article examines the progress made between (2021 and 2025) in the green synthesis and the antiviral applications of Ag-NPs and ZnO-NPs against Coronavirus. The environmental friendly synthesis protocols using natural plant juices have been highlighted in this article due to their lower toxicity and greater biocompatibility. Various characterization methods, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and UV-Vis spectrophotometry, have been used to examine nanoparticle morphology, stability, and surface characteristics. The findings reveald that Ag-NPs can suppress the viral replication by interacting strongly with S proteins, thereby hindering the cellular entry of the targeted Coronavirus. In contrast, ZnO-NPs showed that they have dual purposes: direct antiviral effects and immunomodulatory effects that involve cytokine regulation. The antiviral properties and the limitations of the individual nanoparticles are significantly modified by hybrid nanocomposites. In closing, the significance of using green-synthesized Ag-NPs and ZnO-NPs as antiviral materials is tremendous and warrants further exploration for antiviral applications. Nonetheless, there are still some unaddressed areas concerning the standardization of synthesis techniques and the validation of prolonged safety. Finally, it has been proven that there is a need for collaboration between nanotechnology and green technology in the development of environmentally benign, and universal antiviral medications against any future coronavirus pandemics.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Ma J, Chen H, He Y, et al (2026)

COVID-19 mRNA vaccines: a prospective outlook from technological innovation to clinical practice.

Frontiers in immunology, 17:1757291.

The COVID-19 pandemic established mRNA vaccines as a clinically validated platform for rapid vaccine development and deployment. This review summarizes recent progress in COVID-19 mRNA vaccine technology, clinical performance, immunological mechanisms, and translational applications. First-generation nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccines formulated in lipid nanoparticles demonstrated strong protection against symptomatic disease and, more durably, against severe outcomes, while variant-driven immune escape, waning protection against infection, limited mucosal immunity, and heterogeneous responses in special populations revealed important constraints. The review compares mRNA vaccines with other COVID-19 vaccine platforms and clarifies endpoint-specific correlates of protection, emphasizing the distinct roles of neutralizing antibodies, memory B cells, T-cell responses, and non-neutralizing antibody functions. It further examines unresolved issues associated with repeated vaccination, including immune imprinting and IgG4 class switching, and evaluates technological strategies designed to improve durability, breadth, delivery, and immune programming. Key innovations include optimized RNA chemistry, structure-guided antigen design, advanced lipid nanoparticle formulations, alternative delivery systems, immune-shaping adjuvant approaches, and next-generation RNA formats such as self-amplifying RNA and circular RNA. Finally, the review discusses vaccination strategies for immunocompromised individuals, pregnant and lactating women, older adults, and children, as well as the expansion of mRNA technology into respiratory virus vaccines, cancer immunotherapy, and therapeutic protein expression. These developments define mRNA technology as a modular platform whose clinical impact depends on aligning RNA architecture, delivery system, antigen design, and target population.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Wang S, Chen T, Liu S, et al (2026)

Idiopathic multiple castleman disease case combined with severe neuropathy, Sjogren's syndrome and membrane nephropathy treated by rituximab: a case report and literature review.

Frontiers in immunology, 17:1804654.

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD) is a lymphoproliferative disorder characterized by dysregulated systemic immunity. Multiple cytokines had been found involved in the disease pathogenesis. Hence, involvement of multiple systems in iMCD complicates diagnosis and efficacy assessments. Although guidelines recommend anti-interleukin-6 (IL-6) agents as the primary treatment, options for second-line therapy remain indeterminate.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 65-year-old woman presented with progressive polyneuropathy and nephrotic-range proteinuria ten days after COVID-19 vaccination. Evaluation revealed multicentric lymphadenopathy, elevated IL-6, and plasmacytic-variant CD histopathology (HHV-8 negative). Concurrent Sjögren's syndrome and anti-PLA2R-negative membranous nephropathy were confirmed. After exclusion of POEMS syndrome, iMCD-NOS with intermediate severity was diagnosed. Initial rituximab-cyclophosphamide-dexamethasone therapy resulted in paradoxical neurological worsening despite declining VEGF levels. Anti-IL-6 therapy was inaccessible due to economic constraints. Single-agent rituximab was initiated and continued for nine cycles over 24 months, achieving clinical remission by January 2024 with near-normalization of inflammatory markers, resolution of proteinuria, and neurological recovery.

CONCLUSIONS: This case demonstrates that rituximab monotherapy can achieve clinical remission in iMCD-NOS with concurrent autoimmune manifestations when anti-IL-6 therapy is unavailable. The delayed response pattern-with biomarker improvement preceding clinical recovery-highlights the importance of serial VEGF monitoring and persistence with B-cell-directed therapy before concluding treatment failure.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Diago-Navarro E, García-Vaz C, Fanjul G, et al (2026)

From Ebola to Hantavirus: Spain's Preparedness for High-Consequence Infectious Diseases.

The Lancet regional health. Europe, 66:101749.

The hantavirus outbreak linked to the MV Hondius cruise ship, managed by Spanish authorities in May 2026, provides a timely opportunity to examine how Spain prepares and responds to imported high-consequence infectious diseases (HCID). This crisis bears greater resemblance to Spain's 2014 Ebola response than to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. A decade after Ebola, Spain has built substantially stronger HCID capacities: a network of High Level Isolation and Treatment Units, improved clinical protocols, diagnostic capacity, and more consistent technical communication. Coordination with international partners functioned effectively. However, structural challenges persist: political tensions between central and regional authorities complicated real-time operational coordination and spilled into public communication, undermining the perception of a unified, technically-led response. Finalisation of a National Preparedness and Response Plan and full operationalisation of the National Public Health Agency (AESAP) remain urgent priorities. These domestic challenges sit within a deteriorating global health financing environment, directly eroding the surveillance and response capacities that HCID containment depends upon globally. Spain's Estrategia Española de Salud Global 2025-2030, its seat on the WHO Executive Board and its commitment to increasing ODA, position it well to advocate for stronger HCID-specific frameworks internationally, building on the genuine progress this response demonstrated.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Sekar PKC, R Veerabathiran (2025)

COVID-19 associated acute kidney injury.

Infectious diseases & immunity, 5(3):190-197.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a notable complication of COVID-19 that is difficult to diagnose and treat. This review summarizes the prevalence, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of COVID-19-associated AKI (hereafter COVID-19 AKI). COVID-19 AKI is linked to a multisystem inflammatory syndrome and presents symptoms similar to those of AKI, which is associated with increased morbidity and death rates. The pathophysiological mechanisms of AKI include direct viral injury, cytokine storms, and systemic effects on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. The diagnostic assessment of patients at risk for AKI involves screening for symptoms such as decreased urine output, fluid retention, and fatigue. In contrast, biomarkers like serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen are used for early detection. The management strategies for COVID-19 AKI, such as avoiding nephrotoxic medications, are similar to those for AKI of other causes. Renal replacement therapy may be considered as a treatment option for severe COVID-19 AKI, particularly in cases of fluid overload, or electrolyte imbalances that cannot be managed with conservative treatments. Future research is essential to elucidate the pathophysiology, optimize diagnostic criteria, and develop targeted therapies for COVID-19 AKI. A multidisciplinary approach focusing on physical and mental health is crucial for comprehensive patient care. Addressing these gaps will necessitate substantial funding support to propel research efforts and improve patient outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Bassetti M, Giacobbe DR, Sepulcri C, et al (2025)

Epidemiology, clinical overview, and potential risk of a new pandemic of measles virus.

Infectious diseases & immunity, 5(3):198-205.

Measles outbreaks are increasingly being reported worldwide, posing a global health problem of pandemic potential. Europe was particularly affected in 2024, with a surge in cases linked to a decrease in herd immunity caused by reduced vaccination rates. COVID-19 has worsened the already alarming situation due to the disruption of surveillance systems and access to vaccinations. Here, we discuss the issue of the global surge of measles, its clinical picture, and the role of vaccination, focusing in particular on the European region and describing the underlying causes and potential of a measles pandemic. The purpose of this review is to address current measles epidemiology, highlighting the risks of a potential measles pandemic and exploring possible strategies to address it.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Wang M, Guo H, Ju B, et al (2024)

Original Antigenic Sin on Antibody Response in SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

Infectious diseases & immunity, 4(3):132-137.

Infection and vaccination can provide protective immunity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants has persisted, leading to breakthrough infections. Owing to the original antigenic sin (OAS), variant breakthrough infection or vaccination potentially induces a stronger antibody response against the ancestral strain than to subsequent variants, as in the case of influenza. Thus, overcoming OAS is important for the development of future vaccine designs. This review summarizes the recent findings on OAS in the antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, with an emphasis on future vaccine designs.

RevDate: 2026-09-26
CmpDate: 2026-09-24

Ortiz-Mateu J, L Martinez-Gil (2026)

Role of TMDs in Class I viral fusion proteins.

Microbiology and molecular biology reviews : MMBR, 90(3):e0000626.

SUMMARYClass I fusion proteins are trimeric viral membrane proteins that mediate fusion between the virion and cellular membranes. In their prefusion state, they comprise three domains: a globular "head" domain that binds the target cell receptor, a helical "stalk" domain, and a transmembrane domain (TMD) at the carboxy-terminal end that anchors the protein in the viral membrane. However, it is now evident that the role of the TMD extends beyond simple membrane anchoring. This review explores the dynamic and regulatory functions of the TMD throughout the viral life cycle. TMDs contribute to intracellular trafficking and modulate membrane fusion activity and receptor binding. During virion assembly, they facilitate the incorporation of fusion proteins into budding particles, and influence virion formation and release. Furthermore, TMDs mediate interactions between viral and host proteins, shaping the structural organization of viral complexes, and impacting cellular responses to infection. Collectively, these findings highlight the TMD as a critical determinant of viral fitness and infectivity, underscoring its potential as a novel therapeutic target.

RevDate: 2026-08-28
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Kareem RA, Sameer HN, Athab ZH, et al (2026)

Review: natural compounds as PCSK9 inhibitors for antiviral therapy.

Archives of microbiology, 208(9):.

From the perspective of both the host cell and the virus, cholesterol (CHO) plays a critical role during viral infection. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by regulating plasma levels of lipoprotein(a), triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and by promoting the degradation of the LDL receptor (LDLR). Emerging evidence implicates PCSK9 in the pathophysiology of several viral diseases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), SARS-CoV-2, dengue virus (DENV), and hepatitis viruses. Two monoclonal antibody PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i), evolocumab (Repatha[®]) and alirocumab (Praluent[®]), are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for managing atherosclerotic risk. However, despite preclinical studies suggesting that these inhibitors and other CHO-lowering medications may interfere with viral replication, their therapeutic application as antivirals remains limited due to various restrictions. Naturally occurring compounds such as curcumin, berberine, quercetin, and polyphenols have demonstrated PCSK9-modulating and antiviral properties in preclinical models against viruses including HIV, hepatitis viruses, SARS-CoV-2, DENV, herpes simplex virus, human cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus. Crucially, the majority of evidence for these natural substances remains preclinical, derived from in vitro and animal studies. The contribution of PCSK9 inhibition to the reported antiviral effects remains unclear, as pleiotropic mechanisms may be involved. Therefore, rather than being clinically proven substitutes for licensed PCSK9-targeted treatments, these molecules should be considered experimental or maybe supplementary medicines. This review examines the current preclinical evidence for natural inhibitors of PCSK9 and their antiviral properties, discusses clinical assessments to date, and considers the potential future role of naturally occurring PCSK9i in antiviral development, acknowledging the substantial research gaps that remain.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-22

Jhandai P, Vaddadi K, L Liu (2026)

NAD[+] metabolism at the host-virus interface.

The Journal of general virology, 107(6):.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD[+]) is one of the most important metabolic coenzymes that not only drives redox reactions and energy production but also acts as a critical substrate for several enzymes involved in immune signalling, DNA repair and epigenetic regulation. Viral infections are known as potent modulators of NAD[+] metabolism, with pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza A virus, Zika virus, herpes simplex virus and human immunodeficiency virus altering NAD[+] biosynthesis and consumption to benefit their persistence and replication. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of NAD[+] metabolism and its regulatory enzymes: sirtuins, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases and CD38/CD157. We then discuss the interplay between NAD[+] homeostasis and virus infection. Understanding how diverse viruses manipulate NAD[+] metabolism could lead to broad-spectrum antiviral strategies grounded in metabolic resilience.

RevDate: 2026-09-03
CmpDate: 2026-09-03

Guedj E, Verger A, T Horowitz (2026)

Brain [18F]FDG-PET in Subjective Cognitive Complaints: From Diagnostic Gap to Neurobiological Insight.

PET clinics, 21(4):553-560.

Subjective cognitive complaints are heterogeneous and may occur with normal, subtle, or objectively abnormal cognitive testing. Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET can help explore their metabolic substrate, particularly in subjective cognitive decline within the Alzheimer's disease continuum. In mild traumatic brain injury and long coronavirus disease (COVID), available studies suggest possible metabolic-network abnormalities but involve more heterogeneous populations and should be interpreted cautiously within multimodal, clinically characterized frameworks.

RevDate: 2026-07-11
CmpDate: 2026-06-23

Barash JA, Madden J, WA Kofke (2026)

Opioid-Associated Hippocampal Injury: Past, Present, and Future Directions.

Hippocampus, 36(4):e70111.

Three of the great public health challenges of our time converge at the hippocampus. The first, dementia, most commonly in the form of Alzheimer's disease, is well known to cause progressive hippocampal damage, resulting in the memory loss associated with the illness. The second, COVID-19 infection, has thus far been linked to hippocampal alterations across multiple studies. Lastly, the third, opioids-especially in the setting of misuse-have been associated with acute and persistent hippocampal injury; this review focuses on the collection of pre-clinical, clinical, and epidemiologic observations supporting this final relationship. Basic science work dating back decades has demonstrated a hypermetabolic response to opioids and associated damage to the hippocampus. The earliest cases recognized as opioid-associated amnestic syndrome (OAS) were subsequently identified in 2012 and reported as part of larger case series several years later. In 2019, a related but more fulminant syndrome involving cerebellar, hippocampal, and basal nuclei transient edema with restricted diffusion (CHANTER) was first described. From these investigations, a growing body of data has since emerged to suggest that regular opioid use, particularly at higher doses or potency, may be connected to a reduction in hippocampal volume and greater risk of dementia. This review begins with a synthesis of data supporting the underlying pathological mechanisms of opioid-associated hippocampal injury (OAHI), then covers the clinical spectrum of this phenomenon. Lastly, we will close with implications of OAHI that warrant further study, including the future epidemiologic impact on related cognitive disorders in the wake of the opioid epidemic and potential therapeutic applications of opioid antagonism for mild cognitive impairment.

RevDate: 2026-06-23

Pizarro Andrade RLN, Enriquez Canto Y, Angulo Salas RJ, et al (2026)

Mental health outcomes and physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Journal of health psychology [Epub ahead of print].

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted physical activity behaviors and worsened mental health worldwide. This study synthesized observational evidence on relationships between physical activity and depression, anxiety, and stress in adults during COVID-19. A systematic review and multilevel random-effects meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD42023491651) of observational studies published January 2020-May 2023 included 38 studies with 140,915 adults using validated measures. Physical activity showed significant inverse associations with depression (r = -0.18; p < 0.001) and stress (r = -0.14; p = 0.043), but not anxiety (p = 0.340). Heterogeneity was substantial. Findings suggest physical activity can serve as a low-risk adjunct to mitigate depressive symptoms and perceived stress during public health crises, though interpretation should be cautious given observational design and high heterogeneity. Clinically, brief assessment and promotion of regular physical activity-tailored to context and delivered in-person or remotely-may support psychological well-being, while anxiety may require combined approaches during emergencies.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-07-21

Bermejo-Jambrina M, Paužuolis M, Kimpel J, et al (2026)

Double trouble: how co- and superinfections shape viral dynamics and host responses.

Journal of virology, 100(7):e0205525.

Concurrent infection of humans by multiple distinct viruses is a common biological phenomenon with important consequences for virus-host interactions. While coinfection refers to the simultaneous infection of an individual or cell with two or more viruses, superinfection denotes the establishment of a secondary infection following a primary one, in which the initial infection influences the susceptibility, replication, or outcome of the secondary infection. Virus-virus interactions can be antagonistic, facilitative, dependent/assisted, or neutral. Antagonistic interactions include superinfection exclusion, whereby a primary virus prevents or restricts secondary infection of the same cell, securing access to host resources and stabilizing replication while limiting genetic and viral diversity. In contrast, facilitative viral interactions arise when one virus disrupts tissue barriers, suppresses immune responses, or remodels cellular pathways, thereby increasing susceptibility to additional viral infections. These interactions intersect with fundamental viral strategies, including the generation of genetically diverse RNA virus quasispecies that promote rapid adaptation and the deployment of DNA virus immunoevasins that interfere with antigen presentation and host immune recognition. While each of these processes has been extensively studied individually, their combined impact during coinfection remains poorly defined. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge on virus-virus interactions, viral diversity, and immune evasion in the context of multi-viral infections. We focus on how interactions at cellular and tissue levels shape infection outcomes, influence viral evolution, and contribute to virus-host coevolution. Finally, we also highlight key gaps in our understanding of viral interference and cooperation and discuss emerging approaches needed to define the spatiotemporal dynamics of coinfection in vivo.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-23

Khudair M, Swift SL, Dienes K, et al (2026)

Factors associated with vaccination intentions and uptake among pregnant women in the UK: A scoping review.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 22(1):2687220.

This scoping review aimed to identify factors associated with vaccination decisions among pregnant women in the UK, guided by the SAGE matrix on vaccine hesitancy, and explored differences between qualitative and quantitative findings and between vaccine intentions (attitudes) and actual uptake (behaviors). Embase®, MEDLINE®, PsycInfo, Web of Science, and Cochrane were searched; rapid review methodologies were applied. From 2,326 records, 49 primary studies were included (published 2010-2025). We identified 222 qualitative factors from 32 studies, and 114 quantitative factors from 30 studies. Qualitative studies frequently reported individual and group influences, particularly beliefs and attitudes about vaccine effectiveness and safety, and the role of healthcare professionals in decision-making. Quantitative studies highlighted sociodemographic influences, including older age, ethnicity, and lower social/economic deprivation. Factors found to be associated with vaccination intention vs. uptake were inconsistent, though these findings should be interpreted cautiously given the modest number of studies addressing this issue.

RevDate: 2026-08-12
CmpDate: 2026-08-11

Liu Z, Wang X, Hu Y, et al (2026)

Burden of infection and hospitalization from respiratory syncytial virus-associated acute lower respiratory tract infections in Chinese children: Modeling of national, regional, and provincial estimates.

Vaccine, 88:128875.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRIs) in children. To guide policymaking on controlling RSV-associated ALRIs (RSV-ALRIs) in China, we estimated the national, regional, and provincial burdens of RSV-ALRIs and associated hospitalizations for children under 5 years old.

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-24

Hasmee N, Joshi H, Gurung M, et al (2026)

Optimising ICU supply chains: Evidence-based strategies for efficiency, resilience and patient safety-a structured narrative review.

BMJ open quality, 15(2):.

Inventory management in intensive care units (ICUs) plays a critical role in ensuring uninterrupted patient care, yet it remains an underprioritised component of healthcare operations. This narrative review explores current challenges and evidence-based strategies for optimising ICU supply chains. Issues such as unpredictable demand, manual stock tracking, procurement inefficiencies and limited staff training often contribute to stockouts, expired supplies and delayed interventions. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed systemic vulnerabilities, emphasising the need for resilient, technology-driven supply systems. A comprehensive literature search (2004-2025) was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar using keywords related to ICU inventory, artificial intelligence (AI) forecasting, radio frequency identification (RFID), procurement and digital health logistics. Findings were synthesised into thematic categories addressing core problems and interventions. Key strategies include implementing automated tracking systems, adopting AI-driven demand forecasting, standardising procurement policies, training ICU staff in inventory best practices and establishing emergency buffer stock. Emerging technologies such as digital twins and blockchain are highlighted for their potential to enhance transparency, responsiveness and planning accuracy. Additionally, fostering multisourcing supplier partnerships and optimising ICU storage space can further enhance system agility and reduce waste. In conclusion, ICU supply chains must evolve from reactive, manual systems to proactive, data-driven frameworks. Hospitals should invest in digital infrastructure, staff training and ethical procurement models to build resilient, cost-effective and patient-centred supply chains.

RevDate: 2026-10-10
CmpDate: 2026-06-24

Lansayan J, Chin KL, AbuBakar S, et al (2026)

Clinical Manifestations and Immunological Impacts in Co-Infections and Sequential Infections of SARS-CoV-2 and Arboviruses.

Current microbiology, 83(8):.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and arboviruses represent major global public health threats, each with distinct epidemiological and pathogenic profiles that often overlap in endemic regions. Reports of co-infection and cross-reactivity between these viruses highlight the need for deeper understanding of their interactions. Co-infections pose diagnostic challenges due to overlapping clinical symptoms and immune modulation, which may exacerbate disease severity. Moreover, antibodies generated from prior virus infections may influence the outcome of subsequent infections through mechanisms such as cross-reactivity and antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE). This review summarises current knowledge on the clinical manifestations and immunological consequences of co- and subsequent infections involving SARS-CoV-2 and arboviruses. Emphasis is placed on underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, including cross-reactivity and ADE, that shape host immune responses. Understanding these interactions is essential for improving diagnostic accuracy and guiding public health strategies to mitigate the risks associated with co-infections and sequential viral infections.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-24

Nirala S, Huang C, Q Mu (2026)

TORCH infections at the maternal-fetal placental transmission: an overview of multi-omics, pathogenesis and innate immune defense.

Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology, 16:1817189.

The maternal-fetal interface represents a dynamic immunological frontier where pregnancy outcomes are determined by the delicate balance between host defense and microbial pathogenesis. Vertical transmission of pathogens across the placental barrier can lead to devastating consequences including fetal loss, stillbirth, prematurity, and congenital anomalies. The classic TORCH acronym encompasses Toxoplasma gondii, Other agents, Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus, though emerging viruses including Zika virus and SARS-CoV-2 have expanded this spectrum. This review synthesizes current understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying vertical transmission, emphasizing the placenta's multi-layered defense system encompassing the syncytiotrophoblast physical barrier, specialized decidual immune cell populations including decidual natural killer cells and macrophages, and constitutive antimicrobial signaling pathways focusing on the placenta's multi-layered defense system encompassing the syncytiotrophoblast physical barrier, specialized decidual immune cell populations including decidual natural killer cells and macrophages, and constitutive antimicrobial signaling pathways. Concurrently, we examine pathogen strategies to subvert these defenses through receptor manipulation, immune evasion, and intracellular replication niches. A major focus is dedicated to the impact of proteomics and single-cell multi-omics in deconvoluting the host-pathogen interactome and identifying biomarkers of fetal injury. Recent seroprevalence studies demonstrate that younger women represent the most susceptible population to acute TORCH infections, highlighting the need for targeted screening programs. This synthesis provides a framework for developing precision diagnostics and targeted interventions to prevent vertical transmission and reduce the global burden of congenital infections.

RevDate: 2026-08-13
CmpDate: 2026-06-24

Theodoro EL, Prediger KM, Damacena MA, et al (2026)

Oral manifestations associated with long COVID: a scoping review.

Revista brasileira de enfermagem, 79:e20250198.

OBJECTIVES: to map scientific evidence on oral manifestations originating during long COVID.

METHODS: this is a scoping review based on the method described by JBI. Primary articles published in Portuguese, English, and Spanish between March 2020 and December 2024 were included from the PubMed, Web of Science, Virtual Health Library, Scopus, Excerpta Medica dataBASE, and Scientific Electronic Library Online databases, and a descriptive analysis was performed.

RESULTS: of the 15 studies analyzed, the most frequent oral manifestations of long COVID were taste alterations, xerostomia, difficulty chewing, gingival bleeding, periodontitis, and changes in the teeth.

CONCLUSIONS: an association between long COVID and various oral manifestations was evidenced, impacting the quality of life of patients. Factors such as age, comorbidities, and social inequalities influence the persistence of these manifestations, with a higher prevalence in women. Multiprofessional collaboration and clearer guidelines are essential to improve dental care.

RevDate: 2026-10-19
CmpDate: 2026-06-24

Poder TG, Camara MA, Bouchard PA, et al (2026)

Pricing Policy for Medical Oxygen and Potential Savings.

Journal of evaluation in clinical practice, 32(4):e70510.

BACKGROUND: Medical oxygen is essential in modern medicine.

AIMS: This study analyzes the pricing policies and costs of medical oxygen in Quebec, provides elements of international comparison, and explores the potential savings through the optimization of oxygen therapy practices.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: It combines a narrative literature review, an analysis of administrative and financial documents, as well as administrative data obtained from representatives of the healthcare sector in Quebec.

RESULTS: The literature review highlights the challenges of producing, storing, and distributing medical oxygen, which have been accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. A very large disparity in pricing policies is also noted among healthcare systems, especially when cylinders are predominantly used. In Quebec, costs vary according to production methods, logistics, and contractual clauses. Optimizing oxygen therapy practices would allow significant savings, particularly by reducing oxygen consumption through various strategies.

DISCUSSION: The study shows the complexity of managing medical oxygen costs, amplified by limited competition and rigid contractual clauses. International comparison highlights the importance of infrastructure, while optimizing oxygen therapy practices offers significant savings potential. To reduce costs, it is recommended to improve distribution management, adopt more flexible contractual clauses, and strengthen competition.

CONCLUSION: To optimize medical oxygen use, actions to undertake from managers and clinicians are highlighted.

RevDate: 2026-10-10
CmpDate: 2026-06-24

Tahmtan A, Nissapatorn V, Saravanabhavan SS, et al (2026)

Viral Infections and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Reinterpreting the Crosstalk Through a Dual-Role Lens.

Current microbiology, 83(8):.

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are multifactorial disorders with increasing evidence implicating viral infections in their pathogenesis. However, current reviews often catalog virus-disease associations without integrating this evidence into a unified conceptual model that also accounts for the therapeutic potential of viral platforms. This review investigates recent literature to propose a "dual-role" model for viruses in NDDs. We analyze how diverse viruses (e.g., HSV-1, HIV, EBV, and SARS-CoV-2) converge on shared pathogenic pathways, including protein misfolding, chronic neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, across different NDDs. Paradoxically, engineered viral vectors derived from neurotropic viruses are being investigated as tools for targeted gene therapy. To address these therapeutic applications of viruses, this review also provides an in-depth report of the various viral vector technologies developed. The approaches involved in designing rationally engineered viral vectors based on various adeno-associated virus serotypes through rational design, directed evolution and machine learning strategies, as well as the lentiviral and herpes simplex virus-based platform are described. Different strategies that have been used to incorporate large and/or small payloads such as gene replacement, RNA interference, microRNA cassettes, CRISPR-based gene editing (base editing, prime editing, CRISPRa and CRISPRi) and the double AAV systems to deliver larger transgene cassette have also been reviewed. This review further includes various routes of administration including intrathecal, intracerebroventricular and convection-enhanced delivery with the use of Focused Ultrasound. The constraints imposed by the Blood-Brain Barrier are discussed, especially the approach using receptor-mediated transcytosis for crossing. The review also critically evaluates obstacles toward clinical translation of viral vectors due to various factors including immunogenicity, the presence of pre-existing neutralising antibodies and dose-dependent toxicity, illustrated by the fatal outcome of ASPIRO and DMD trials. Finally, this review concludes with other promising non-viral approaches such as lipid nanoparticle and extracellular vesicles. Future research needs include long-term studies to investigate causality and extensive safety optimization of viral vectors.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Papers in Classical Genetics

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