@article {pmid42506789,
year = {2026},
author = {Malak, H and Mirza, M and Gambescia, SF and Aboul-Enein, BH},
title = {Pharmacy Students' Perception of E-Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic Across the League of Arab States: A Regional Scoping Review.},
journal = {Pharmacy (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmacy14040099},
pmid = {42506789},
issn = {2226-4787},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic compelled higher education to resort to e-learning, posing new challenges to the teaching/learning of pharmacy students worldwide. While digital learning provided flexibility, diverse technological infrastructure and institutional availability of resources greatly influenced the student experience. This scoping review aims to assess the perceptions relating to the pivot to e-learning among pharmacy students in the League of Arab States due to the COVID-19 pandemic and how the shift affected student engagement, learning outcomes, and institutional preparedness. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a comprehensive search across ten databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published between January 2020 and December 2025. Forty studies satisfied the inclusion criteria. Pharmacy students in this region responded to the transition to e-learning in diverse ways. While most appreciated the convenience of online modalities, several challenges were consistently enumerated. These were limited technological infrastructure, reduced interpersonal interaction, and disruption of hands-on practical training. Blended learning approaches were largely favored, particularly for their ability to marry online theoretical instruction with face-to-face experiential learning. Reliability and validity issues of internet-based tests were felt by both faculty and students. Stress and mental health problems among students surfaced. Student complaints in general depicted pharmacy education's need for pedagogic reform, better infrastructure, and student mental health services during e-learning. Areas identified from this review are instructional technology infrastructure improvement, adopting a blended learning strategy, and the need to consider the mental health of students learning at a distance.},
}

@article {pmid42507119,
year = {2026},
author = {Algothmi, KM and Alwathinani, NF and Sohrab, SS and Azhar, EI},
title = {Human Bocavirus (HBoV): An update on current status and future prospects in Saudi Arabia.},
journal = {The new microbiologica},
volume = {49},
number = {2},
pages = {83-93},
pmid = {42507119},
issn = {1121-7138},
mesh = {Humans ; Saudi Arabia/epidemiology ; *Human bocavirus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification ; *Parvoviridae Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {Viral respiratory tract infections, particularly Human Bocavirus (HBoV) infections, are a significant global health concern. COVID-19 has provided a suitable platform for infectious diseases caused by multiple pathogens. This review highlights key aspects of the current status and future prospects of HBoV research in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including global and local prevalence, clinical impact, and diagnostic challenges. It also emphasizes the need for future research, particularly in Saudi Arabia, to fill knowledge gaps, improve diagnosis, and design and develop future treatment and prevention strategies. HBoV was identified from a ten-year-old infected patient in Sweden from collected nasopharyngeal samples in 2005. It has been classified into four genotypes (1-4), and HBoV-1 causes respiratory infections requiring hospitalization. Co-infections with other viruses are well known, with the most common symptoms being pneumonia, cough, fever, and wheezing. Most studies on HBoV diagnosis have relied primarily on polymerase chain reaction techniques. Even though pediatric HBoV infections are common worldwide, due to limited HBoV research, there is a lack of awareness among healthcare providers, especially in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East & North Africa region. Expanding research and awareness on HBoV is urgently required to address the burden of respiratory infections in these regions, not only to explore long-term effects, potential treatments, and vaccine development, but also to use advanced diagnostic methods to analyze the changing epidemiology of respiratory pathogens and achieve effective infection control measures.},
}

Humans
Saudi Arabia/epidemiology
*Human bocavirus/genetics/isolation & purification/classification
*Parvoviridae Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis
Prevalence

@article {pmid42507165,
year = {2026},
author = {Salimi, S and Amiri, S and Karimi, SA and Babajani, MM and Rezaiemanesh, A},
title = {Effect of glucocorticoids on smell sensation in patients with non-traumatic olfactory disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {European journal of clinical pharmacology},
volume = {82},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42507165},
issn = {1432-1041},
mesh = {Humans ; *Olfaction Disorders/drug therapy/etiology ; *Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; Rhinosinusitis/drug therapy/complications ; COVID-19/complications ; *Smell/drug effects ; Nasal Polyps/complications/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The efficacy of glucocorticoids (GCs) for treating non-traumatic olfactory disorders (ODs) remains controversial, with existing meta-analyses showing inconsistent results, largely due to variations in included studies and a lack of etiology-specific analysis.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed a pre-registered protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42022319449). We searched four databases up to December 2025 for studies assessing GCs therapy in adults with non-traumatic ODs. Efficacy was analyzed by etiology, with the primary outcome being the standardized mean difference (SMD) in objective or subjective olfactory score change.

RESULTS: Thirty-four studies were included. GCs therapy significantly improved olfactory function in patients with COVID-19-related ODs (13 studies, 1538 patients, SMD = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.27-0.79), nasal polyposis (9 studies, 2022 patients, SMD = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.39-0.72), and chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (5 studies, 318 patients, SMD = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.18-1.59). No significant benefit was found for chronic rhinosinusitis without polyps (4 studies, 464 patients, SMD = 0.25, 95% CI: -0.03-0.53) or allergic rhinitis (3 studies, 240 patients, SMD = 0.50, 95% CI: -0.02-1.01). Significant heterogeneity was observed for the positive outcomes. Given the significant heterogeneity (I² > 50%), subgroup analyses were performed based on the method of olfactory assessment, treatment duration, formulation, and control group type.

CONCLUSION: The efficacy of GCs in olfactory dysfunction is probably etiology-dependent. They are most beneficial for ODs related to nasal polyps. For COVID-19-related ODs, short-term intranasal GCs may be effective, while evidence for allergic rhinitis remains inconclusive.},
}

Humans
*Olfaction Disorders/drug therapy/etiology
*Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage
Rhinosinusitis/drug therapy/complications
COVID-19/complications
*Smell/drug effects
Nasal Polyps/complications/drug therapy

@article {pmid42507202,
year = {2026},
author = {Barnawi, AB and Aseeri, IM and Alotaibi, AA and Alasmari, KAS and Alkholaiwi, F},
title = {Navigating the efficacy, safety and outcome of intranasal platelet-rich plasma for persistent olfactory loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {European archives of oto-rhino-laryngology : official journal of the European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies (EUFOS) : affiliated with the German Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology - Head and Neck Surgery},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42507202},
issn = {1434-4726},
support = {grant number IMSIU- DDRSP2601)//Deanship of Scientific Research, Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud Islamic University/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) poses a significant clinical challenge with limited therapeutic options. Intranasal platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous source of regenerative growth factors, presents a biologically plausible intervention, yet its efficacy across various OD etiologies remains synthetically underexplored.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library (2010-2025) identified studies assessing intranasal PRP for persistent OD (> 6 months). Random-effects models pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) for objective (e.g., Sniffin' Sticks TDI) and subjective outcomes.

RESULTS: Seven studies (n = 473) were included. Meta-analysis of controlled studies (n = 314) demonstrated a moderate, significant improvement in objective olfactory scores favoring PRP over control (SMD 0.61, 95% CI 0.38-0.84). The pooled mean TDI change from baseline was 7.73 points (95% CI 6.59-8.87), exceeding the minimal clinically important difference of 5.5 points. Benefits were observed across post-COVID-19, post-viral, and post-traumatic etiologies. Adverse events were predominantly mild and transient (e.g., epistaxis).

CONCLUSION: Intranasal PRP appears to be a generally well-tolerated and promising therapeutic strategy, yielding clinically meaningful improvements in persistent OD of diverse origins. However, the evidence remains preliminary and should be interpreted cautiously, as it is based on only two small RCTs plus non-randomized or single-arm studies. Future studies must optimize its protocol and evaluate its potential synergy with standard therapies like olfactory training.},
}

@article {pmid42507660,
year = {2026},
author = {Murtaza, M and Rasool, MM and Ali, SME and Farhan, M and Ilyas, L and Raza, AA and Amjad, H and Kumar, S and Khan, Z and Tahir, S and Samadi, A},
title = {National Trends & Disparities in Ischemic Heart Disease & Cardiac Arrhythmias Related Mortality in the United States From 1999 to 2024: A CDC Wonder Analysis.},
journal = {Clinical cardiology},
volume = {49},
number = {8},
pages = {e70427},
doi = {10.1002/clc.70427},
pmid = {42507660},
issn = {1932-8737},
mesh = {Humans ; United States/epidemiology ; Female ; *Myocardial Ischemia/mortality/ethnology ; *Arrhythmias, Cardiac/mortality/ethnology ; Male ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Retrospective Studies ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. ; Age Distribution ; Risk Factors ; *Health Status Disparities ; Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ischemic heart disease and cardiac arrhythmias are major contributors to cardiovascular mortality in the United States. Understanding long-term national trends and demographic disparities is essential for guiding prevention strategies and public health policies.

METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted using mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) database from 1999 to 2024. Deaths in which IHD and a cardiac arrhythmia were both recorded were identified using ICD-10 codes. Crude mortality rates and age-adjusted mortality rates per 100,000 population were calculated. Temporal trends were assessed using Joinpoint regression to estimate annual percent change (APC) and average annual percent change (AAPC). Mortality patterns were further stratified by sex, race/ethnicity, age group, geographic region, and urbanization status.

RESULTS: A total of 1 885 917 deaths were attributed to IHD and cardiac arrhythmias between 1999 and 2024. The overall AAMR declined from 41.97 in 1999 to 31.75 in 2024. Mortality decreased substantially from 1999 to 2009, stabilized through 2018, and increased sharply during 2018-2021 before declining again through 2024. The cumulative AAMR was 45.09 among males and 23.33 among females. Mortality varied across racial and ethnic groups, geographic regions, urbanization levels, and age groups.

CONCLUSION: Although overall mortality related to IHD and cardiac arrhythmias has declined over the past two decades, demographic and geographic differences persist. The temporary rise during 2018-2021 coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic period and underscores the need for sustained prevention strategies and equitable healthcare access.},
}

Humans
United States/epidemiology
Female
*Myocardial Ischemia/mortality/ethnology
*Arrhythmias, Cardiac/mortality/ethnology
Male
Cross-Sectional Studies
Retrospective Studies
Aged
Middle Aged
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.
Age Distribution
Risk Factors
*Health Status Disparities
Adult

@article {pmid42508371,
year = {2026},
author = {Bonanad, C and Alfaro, R and Morán Bayón, Á and Cainzos-Achirica, M and García-Lledó, A and Raposeiras-Roubín, S and Vivas, D and Freixa-Pamias, R and Mora, J and Martín-Toro, MA and Fernández-Olmo, R and Maidana, D and Barreres-Martín, G and Barrios, V and Redondo, E},
title = {[Comprehensive cardiovascular prevention: the role of vaccination in older adults with cardiovascular disease. Expert consensus document].},
journal = {Semergen},
volume = {52},
number = {7},
pages = {102819},
doi = {10.1016/j.semerg.2026.102819},
pmid = {42508371},
issn = {1578-8865},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Respiratory and systemic infections can trigger cardiovascular events by increasing inflammation, atherosclerotic plaque instability, and a prothrombotic state. Given this situation, vaccination is a relevant preventive tool in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD).

OBJECTIVE: To review the available evidence on the impact of vaccination in patients with CVD and to propose recommendations to improve vaccination coverage in clinical practice.

CONTENT: This expert consensus, developed through a structured narrative review and panel discussion rounds, synthesizes the evidence on vaccination against influenza, pneumococcal disease, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, COVID-19, and herpes zoster in patients with CVD. The influenza vaccine presents the strongest evidence for reducing cardiovascular events, especially after acute episodes and in high-risk patients. For vaccination against pneumococcal disease, COVID-19, RSV infection, and herpes zoster, although direct cardiovascular evidence is more limited, the reduction in infections and hospitalizations supports its recommendation for a comprehensive preventive approach.

CONCLUSIONS: Vaccination is part of a comprehensive cardiovascular prevention approach. Improved coverage, supported by shared pathways between cardiology and primary care, along with public health services, can result in fewer infectious complications, fewer cardiovascular decompensations, and better clinical outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42509561,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, JH and Zang, J and Xu, JR and Ran, XB and Su, M and Zhang, WM and Ge, ZW and Sun, QY and Ding, LW},
title = {The current landscape of mRNA therapy and the strategies for mRNA purification and dsRNA removal.},
journal = {Journal of biomedical science},
volume = {33},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42509561},
issn = {1423-0127},
support = {MOH-OFIRG21nov-0007//the Singapore Ministry of Health's NMRC Open Fund-Individual Research Grant/ ; NUHSRO/2023/005/STARTUP/3//National University of Singapore startup grant/ ; },
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has emerged as a cornerstone in vaccine development and therapeutic applications, offering key benefits such as high potency, rapid scalability, and cost-effectiveness. The success of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has underscored their efficacy and safety. However, residual byproducts generated during mRNA synthesis, such as unincorporated caps, nucleoside triphosphates (NTPs), DNA templates, enzymes, abortive transcripts, and double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), pose significant challenges to the clinical application of the RNA therapy. Among these, dsRNA is particularly problematic as it can activate various innate immune responses, suppress mRNA translation and potentially compromise the therapeutic efficacy of mRNA. Therefore, effectively removing dsRNA from in vitro synthesized mRNA is essential before its used in preclinical or clinical settings. In this review article, we provide a comprehensive overview of current mRNA development pipelines and ongoing clinical trials, and recent advances in mRNA purification techniques. Specifically, we focus on strategies for dsRNA removal, which can be broadly categorized into two approaches: (1) separating or removing dsRNA from in vitro transcription (IVT) mRNA products using methods such as RP-HPLC chromatography and cellulose-based purification; and (2) minimizing dsRNA formation during IVT by employing engineered RNA polymerase mutants, chaotropic agents, and magnetic beads, as well as modifying/optimizing DNA templates or RNA molecules to reduce dsRNA generation. We also discuss the advantages and limitations of these purification methods, the factors influencing the selection of purification strategies, and explore potential future directions for improving dsRNA purification technologies and their applications in mRNA-based therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid42511473,
year = {2026},
author = {Starek, E and Żak, K and Ostrowska-Leśko, M and Bobiński, M},
title = {The Impact of Long COVID on the Female Reproductive System: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {42511473},
issn = {1422-0067},
abstract = {Long COVID affects multiple organ systems and disproportionately affects women, raising concerns about reproductive health. This updated narrative review summarizes evidence from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science through March 2026 and extends previous reviews by distinguishing Long COVID-specific findings from acute and early post-infection observations and integrating newer evidence on ovarian reserve, follicular-fluid biology, assisted reproduction, and endometrial function. Reported menstrual changes include irregular cycles, heavy or prolonged bleeding, intermenstrual bleeding, and amenorrhea. Evidence regarding ovarian reserve remains inconsistent: some studies reported lower anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels and/or antral follicle count (AFC), whereas others found no significant changes. Case reports describe premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) and possible autoimmune oophoritis but do not establish causality. Proposed mechanisms include immune dysregulation, inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis disturbance. Available evidence does not indicate adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccination on ovarian reserve or fertility outcomes. Most studies suggest transient changes. Direct Long COVID-specific evidence for persistent ovarian or endometrial injury remains limited. However, short follow-up precludes conclusions regarding ovarian aging, menopausal timing, lifetime fertility, or long-term endometrial receptivity. Symptom-guided assessment may include menstrual tracking, AMH, early-follicular-phase follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones, and pelvic ultrasonography when clinically indicated.},
}

@article {pmid42512089,
year = {2026},
author = {Leyfman, Y and Ikkurthy, N and Dohadwala, TK and Coloma, HS and Ghazal, J and Joshi, M and Cortiana, V and Pasnoor, DS and Menon, GP and Levi, N and Balasubramanian, M and Park, C},
title = {Mechanistic Interplay Between Multiple Myeloma and Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Therapeutic Promise of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/biomedicines14071617},
pmid = {42512089},
issn = {2227-9059},
abstract = {Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) exhibit profound immune dysregulation, predisposing them to severe outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Current evidence highlights shared immunopathological mechanisms linking MM and COVID-19, with particular emphasis on the interleukin-6 (IL-6) axis as a shared amplifier of inflammation rather than the sole driver of disease. MM is characterized by a baseline pro-inflammatory milieu, in part mediated by IL-6, which is further amplified during SARS-CoV-2 infection, resulting in cytokine escalation, complement activation, coagulopathy, and multi-organ injury. This amplification operates within a broader, redundant network that also includes T-cell exhaustion, NK-cell dysfunction, checkpoint signaling, complement and endothelial injury, and treatment-induced immune defects. This overlap provides a mechanistic basis for the disproportionately high morbidity and mortality observed in this population. Even with advancements in vaccination, antiviral therapy, and clinical practice, patients with MM who exhibit impaired vaccine responses, active disease, or treatment-related immune dysfunction continue to experience considerable vulnerability to COVID-19. In addition, MM patients demonstrate suboptimal vaccine-induced immune responses, contributing to persistent vulnerability to severe and breakthrough infections. Modern MM therapies, including anti-CD38 antibodies, BCMA-directed agents, and bispecific T-cell redirecting antibodies, further reshape antiviral immunity by reducing NK cells, inducing plasma cell aplasia, causing hypogammaglobulinemia, and impairing T-cell function. Emerging treatment approaches targeting this shared pathway have been explored, with a focus on mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs exhibit multimodal properties, including suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, restoration of immune homeostasis, inhibition of viral entry, and promotion of tissue repair and regeneration. Early clinical experience in severe COVID-19 populations suggests a favorable short-term safety profile; reported efficacy, however, derives from small, largely uncontrolled or early-phase studies, and the single randomized trial reporting a mortality benefit did so only in an exploratory post hoc subgroup, with its pre-specified primary endpoint not met. Overall, EVs constitute a biologically plausible but as yet unproven adjunctive strategy that warrants further investigation. Critically, no MM patient has ever been enrolled in an EV trial; current rationale for EV use in MM is therefore extrapolated entirely from non-MM populations, and no MM-specific data exist. Difficulties such as EV heterogeneity, manufacturing variability, uncertain pharmacokinetics, limited targeting efficiency, and potential prothrombotic effects must be resolved before their application in MM-specific clinical settings.},
}

@article {pmid42512304,
year = {2026},
author = {Savva, A and Christodoulou, P and Michaeloudes, C and Farazi, PA},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Lung Cancer Screening and Diagnosis: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cancers},
volume = {18},
number = {14},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cancers18142238},
pmid = {42512304},
issn = {2072-6694},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The global health crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 severely impacted healthcare systems, particularly affecting cancer patients, including those with lung cancer. Understanding the pandemic's effects on lung cancer diagnosis is important for providing guidelines for future similar crises. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted using the SCOPUS and PubMed databases, including keywords such as 'COVID-19 pandemic,' 'lung cancer,' 'diagnosis,' and 'screening.' In the initial screening phase, studies were selected based on their title and abstract, followed by the removal of duplicates. A second round of full-text screening was then performed using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Specific checklists were applied to ensure methodological quality. Results: Out of 564 articles, 78 met the inclusion criteria and were grouped according to changes in lung cancer incidence, screening and diagnostic procedures, and staging during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic. Multiple studies reported an average decline of 20% in newly diagnosed lung cancer cases, alongside significant decreases in screenings, follow-ups, and diagnostic procedures. In contrast, only two studies reported an increase in lung cancer incidence, and three studies reported increases in screening or diagnostic activity. Eight studies reported a shift toward more advanced-stage diagnoses and fewer early-stage detections, while four studies observed a decrease in advanced-stage lung cancer during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic years. Conclusions: Studies show that overall, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted lung cancer diagnosis in many countries, highlighting the need for stronger healthcare systems that can support crisis response and equitable care.},
}

@article {pmid42512659,
year = {2026},
author = {Hsieh, MC and Lu, MC and Koo, M},
title = {Mapping TriNetX-Based Real-World Evidence Publications by Clinical Domain and Study Purpose, 2018-2025: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {42512659},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Federated electronic health record networks are increasingly used for real-world evidence generation, but publication-use patterns for TriNetX remain incompletely characterized. This study mapped Web of Science-indexed articles that explicitly mentioned TriNetX and examined their distribution across clinical domains and study purposes. Methods: We searched the Web of Science Core Collection for articles published during 2018-2025 with "TriNetX" in the title, abstract, or author keywords. Bibliometric indicators, journal sources, citation impact, author-keyword co-occurrence, and trend topics were analyzed using R, bibliometrix, Biblioshiny, and VOSviewer. A reproducible rule-based dictionary classified clinical domains and study purposes, and a supplementary Scopus analysis assessed pattern-level reproducibility. Results: The corpus included 1573 articles. Annual output increased from 1 article in 2018 to 871 in 2025. Corresponding-author output was concentrated in the United States and Taiwan. Highly cited studies were dominated by COVID-19 research. Keyword analyses suggested a shift from pandemic-related topics toward mortality, cardiometabolic disease, and medication-related outcomes. Domain-purpose mapping showed that risk/prognosis studies were most common, whereas effectiveness, health services, and method/validation studies were less frequent. Scopus validation reproduced the main annual, source-level, and domain-purpose patterns. Conclusions: TriNetX-based publications expanded rapidly and diversified across clinical fields. Domain-purpose mapping shows where research has concentrated and where it remains sparse; lower frequency, however, should not be read as a definitive clinical evidence gap, since some areas may be less suited to the platform. Where the network is well suited, future work could give greater attention to comparative effectiveness, long-term safety, care pathways, and phenotype validation.},
}

@article {pmid42513402,
year = {2026},
author = {Bermejo-Pareja, F and Ramo-Tello, C and Benito-León, J},
title = {Posterior Circulation Ischemic Stroke Occurring After ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/AZD1222 Vaccination Without Evidence of Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia: A Case Report and Focused Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {42513402},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background: Ischemic stroke has been reported rarely after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination, most clearly in association with vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). Nevertheless, temporal proximity alone cannot establish causality, particularly when conventional vascular risk factors are present. We report a case of posterior circulation ischemic stroke occurring 36-48 h after first-dose ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/AZD1222 vaccination without VITT and provide a focused narrative review of the clinical, epidemiological, and mechanistic evidence regarding post-vaccination stroke. Methods: Clinical, laboratory, and neuroimaging data were reviewed retrospectively. A focused narrative literature review was performed to contextualize VITT-related and non-VITT ischemic stroke after COVID-19 vaccination, pharmacovigilance signals, population-based evidence, and proposed biological mechanisms. Results: A 63-year-old man with well-controlled hypertension and a remote history of smoking developed systemic symptoms within 24 h of first-dose ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/AZD1222 vaccination, followed by severe hypertension and acute posterior circulation neurological symptoms 36-48 h after vaccination. Neuroimaging showed an acute left cerebellar infarct extending into the middle cerebellar peduncle, with approximately 50% stenosis of the intradural left vertebral artery. Platelet counts remained normal, D-dimer and anti-PF4 antibody testing were normal, SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing was negative, and routine cardiac evaluation did not identify a definite cardioembolic source. Conclusions: This case highlights an early posterior circulation ischemic stroke temporally associated with ChAdOx1 nCoV-19/AZD1222 vaccination in the absence of VITT. Although individual causality cannot be established from a single case, careful reporting of such presentations may improve clinical recognition, etiological evaluation, and pharmacovigilance.},
}

@article {pmid42513511,
year = {2026},
author = {Cioni, G and Calo', GL and Kerpaci, B and Troia, A and Gregori, N and Manzoli, L and Flacco, ME},
title = {The Burden of Long-COVID-19 Among Pediatric Subjects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {14},
pages = {},
pmid = {42513511},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: There is wide variability in the available estimates on the burden of Long-COVID (LC), both among adults and children. Preliminary evidence suggests that this inconsistency may be due, at least in part, to the adoption of uneven diagnostic criteria, proposed by several international entities during the course of the pandemic, but no comprehensive evaluation has been performed so far to quantify the extent of variation among children. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to update the available epidemiological estimates of LC among pediatric subjects, and to systematically appraise the degree of variability that can be attributed to the diagnostic criteria adopted. Methods: A systematic literature search identified cohort studies providing data on LC among children and adolescents with a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. We computed (a) proportion and (b) head-to-head meta-analyses (a) to quantify the pooled rates of LC and LC-related symptoms, and (b) to assess the likelihood of developing LC based upon selected demographic and/or clinical characteristics, respectively. Results: In total, 52 cohort studies and 960,089 subjects were included. The pooled rate of LC was 18.1% (95% CI: 13.1-23.6), ranging from 16.2% to 21.6%, according to NIH or WHO diagnostic criteria, respectively. Fatigue, respiratory and neurological symptoms were most commonly reported by LC patients. Stratified analyses showed that females, adolescents (vs. children), subjects with comorbidities, and those with a previous severe COVID-19 (as compared to asymptomatic primary infections) were more likely to develop LC (all p < 0.05). In contrast, the likelihood of LC onset did not significantly vary between individuals with ≥1 anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine dose, versus the unvaccinated (pooled OR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.61-1.41). Conclusions: Although the available estimates may largely vary depending on the adopted definition, LC affects a meaningful proportion of the pediatric population; as such, common clinical criteria and diagnostic approaches are urgently needed. Moreover, given the relevant methodological heterogeneity and the generally poor-to-fair quality of a large part of the available literature, high-quality studies adopting standardized methodologies are warranted to identify at-risk populations and guide the implementation of targeted follow-up strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42513914,
year = {2026},
author = {He, Y and Lo, WS and Yuen, PL and Ching, PTY and Sze, EPT and Kwok, KO and Ip, M and Lai, CKC},
title = {Environmental Disinfection in Long-Term Care Facilities-A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071408},
pmid = {42513914},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Background: Long-term care facility (LTCF) residents are highly susceptible to healthcare-associated infections, and prevention is challenging given frailty, dementia, communal living, and resource constraints. Environmental surface and air contamination contribute to transmission. Novel no-touch automated disinfection technologies have been studied in hospitals, but evidence specific to LTCFs is scarce. This scoping review summarizes recent LTCF-focused interventions, their effectiveness, and implementation considerations. Methods: This scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist. We searched PubMed, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Scopus for observational or experimental studies evaluating environmental disinfection in LTCFs/nursing homes, excluding body decolonization, non-LTCF settings, and reviews/protocols. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data via Covidence. This review has been registered on OSF (Open Science Framework). Results: Of 1491 records, 7 studies met the inclusion criteria (6 from the USA, 1 from Australia): one cluster randomized trial, one interrupted time series studies, three prospective observational studies, and two pre-post designs. Interventions included physical methods (HVAC-integrated UV/UVGI, continuous UVGI) and chemical approaches (dry hydrogen peroxide, room fogging plus chlorine dioxide wipes, hydrogen peroxide wipes). Outcomes were heterogeneous (surface SARS-CoV-2 RNA, COVID-19 attack/case rates, airborne/surface microbial loads, and one clinical endpoint-acute respiratory illness). Several studies reported reductions in environmental or airborne bioburden; however, UV-based studies did not demonstrate statistically significant reductions in clinical infections. Certainty was limited by small numbers, non-randomized designs, and diverse outcome measures. Conclusions: No-touch automated disinfection methods appear promising as supplements to standard infection prevention control bundles for reducing environmental contamination in LTCFs. Nevertheless, consistent clinical benefits are unproven. Rigorous, LTCF-tailored, adequately powered trials with standardized clinical and environmental outcomes, plus implementation and cost-effectiveness evaluations, are needed.},
}

@article {pmid42514077,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, A and Ran, D and Shen, Z and Rojba, M and Zhang, J},
title = {The Gut-Lung Microbiome Axis in Alveolar Stem Cell Regeneration and Lung Repair.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071572},
pmid = {42514077},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {The mammalian respiratory system stands as a frontline barrier, constantly exposed to environmental insults, balancing defensive immunity with gas exchange. Historically considered sterile, the lung harbors a dynamic, low-biomass microbiome that evolves continuously in response to pulmonary pathologies. Accumulating evidence underscores that respiratory health and structural recovery are not autonomous but are critically integrated with distal microbial systems, especially the intestinal tract, through the gut-lung axis (GLA). This review characterizes the GLA as a bidirectional communication highway fueled by immune pathways, microbial metabolites, and direct microbial translocations. During acute or chronic injuries, such as COVID-19, COPD, asthma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and lung cancer, the gut microbiota serves as a remote metabolic "rheostat". It delivers pivotal signaling molecules, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and tryptophan metabolites (indoles), that could shape the local microenvironment in which the respiratory epithelium undergoes functional repair or maladaptive, fibrotic remodeling. Mechanistically, gut-derived butyrate enhances mitochondrial activity in alveolar epithelial cells, while resident progenitors, such as Alveolar Type 2 (AT2) cells, depend on intact mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation for proper regenerative differentiation. Conversely, critical lung illness disrupts this homeostasis via a "pathological circuit," where severe pulmonary inflammation drives gut permeability, fecal dysbiosis, and the subsequent translocation of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs, such as LPS) or gut-associated bacteria back into the pulmonary circulation. This review highlights the systemic nature of lung regeneration, which likely depends heavily on intestinal health through the GLA. Ultimately, leveraging these remote microbial networks through precision postbiotic supplementation, dietary priming, or microbiota transplantation represents a crucial frontier in precision medicine to promote definitive alveolar repair.},
}

@article {pmid42514086,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, Y and Ma, N and Zhao, B and Li, Y and Tian, Y and Liu, J and Quan, Y},
title = {Wastewater Metagenomics for Antimicrobial Resistance and Pathogen Surveillance: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/microorganisms14071583},
pmid = {42514086},
issn = {2076-2607},
support = {YDZJ202601ZYTS183//Jilin Province Science and Technology Department/ ; },
abstract = {Wastewater systems are critical reservoirs where antibiotic resistance genes, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and pathogens converge and disseminate into receiving waters, posing risks to ecosystems and public health. Metagenomics enables culture-independent surveillance of resistome and pathogens in wastewater. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the rapid expansion of wastewater-based epidemiological surveillance, together with growing emphasis on the One Health framework, has further promoted the integration of wastewater metagenomic monitoring with public-health surveillance strategies. However, no bibliometric study has systematically mapped the global research landscape at the intersection of metagenomics, wastewater systems, antimicrobial resistance, and pathogen surveillance. This study retrieved 1161 publications from the Web of Science Core Collection and used CiteSpace to conduct bibliometric analyses. From 2010 to 2025, annual publications increased from 1 to 219, with 72.7% of the total output concentrated between 2021 and 2025. China led in publication output but showed low betweenness centrality, whereas Australia and Sweden served as key intermediaries. Keyword analysis revealed a gradual thematic evolution from the basic detection of antibiotic resistance genes in activated sludge, through studies of dissemination mechanisms, to recent work on One Health and wastewater surveillance. Literature co-citation analysis showed that integration between environmental monitoring and public health literature remains limited, suggesting that the translation of metagenomic surveillance data into health risk assessment frameworks is still at an early stage. By mapping the field's knowledge structure and gaps, this review highlights priorities for advancing wastewater-based Antimicrobial Resistance surveillance, including standardizing analytical methods, developing artificial intelligence-assisted resistome analysis, promoting equitable participation from underrepresented regions, and operationalizing One Health surveillance, thereby supporting the translation of wastewater monitoring into actionable public-health solutions.},
}

@article {pmid42514170,
year = {2026},
author = {Călinoiu, AL and Mincă, A and Popescu, CC and Vodă, IM and Cristea, AM and Mincă, DI},
title = {New-Onset Myasthenia Gravis Associated with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42514170},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {This systematic literature review synthesizes available data from published case reports and case studies describing de novo myasthenia gravis (MG) following confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, focusing on clinical presentation, immunological characteristics, temporal relationship, management, and outcomes. The study addresses the following research question: What are the clinical, immunological, temporal, and outcome characteristics of de novo MG following SARS-CoV-2 infection based on published case reports and case studies? Following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, the analysis included 44 studies describing 48 patients. The findings suggest that MG temporally associated with COVID-19 typically occurred within a relatively short latency period, with a median interval of 21 days. Most patients presented with generalized onset and were predominantly positive for AChR-Abs, consistent with the established clinical and serological profile of classical MG, in which AChR-Abs represent the most common subtype, particularly in generalized disease. MuSK and LRP4-positive cases were less frequent; ICU admission, myasthenic crisis, and respiratory failure were frequently reported. Importantly, most patients responded well to conventional MG therapies.},
}

@article {pmid42514186,
year = {2026},
author = {Massip Copiz, MM},
title = {Folic Acid and Endothelial Dysfunction in COVID-19.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {42514186},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Since 2020, recurrent waves of SARS-CoV-2 infection have persisted globally. Despite the advancements in vaccines and pharmacological treatments, a subset of patients still exhibits an aggressive form of COVID-19 requiring prolonged stays in the intensive care unit (ICU) or experiences major acute infections (or reinfections) and long-term symptoms. Endothelial dysfunction is one of the key events contributing to both the severity of acute COVID-19 and the development of long COVID (LC)/post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) syndrome. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the efficacy of nutraceuticals, particularly essential micronutrients, has been investigated as a complementary treatment to prevent disease onset and improve clinical outcomes. One such bioactive molecule is folate (vitamin B9), a member of the B-vitamin family involved in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, including viral infections and vascular disorders. This review examines the role of folic acid in COVID-19 and its interaction with homocysteine metabolism, which is frequently dysregulated in inflammatory endothelial diseases. It further discusses the potential benefits of folic acid supplementation for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in both the acute and long-term phases of the disease, alongside the therapeutic role of vitamin B12 supplementation in LC syndrome.},
}

@article {pmid42515022,
year = {2026},
author = {Makhoba, XH},
title = {Dual Functions of Polyamines in Shaping Host-Specific Pathogen Dynamics.},
journal = {Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pathogens15070695},
pmid = {42515022},
issn = {2076-0817},
abstract = {Polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine, and spermine play essential roles in most living organisms. They regulate fundamental processes, like cell proliferation, differentiation, growth, gene expression (DNA/RNA stability, transcription, and translation), and signal transduction. As important regulators, polyamines influence development, stress responses, and the progression of health and disease, including cancer and aging. These positively charged molecules have been extensively studied for decades. In humans, polyamines are often researched as potential therapeutic targets for diseases such as malaria and, more recently, COVID-19. Obligate parasites, such as Plasmodium falciparum, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), rely on host cellular machinery for survival, replication, and growth. Notably, both hosts and pathogens need polyamines to sustain these processes. This review summarizes current advances in understanding the roles of polyamines in humans, viruses, and obligate parasites. It also explores strategies to prevent pathogens from hijacking host polyamine metabolism as a way toward developing novel therapeutic interventions.},
}

@article {pmid42515573,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, Y and He, W and Geng, X and He, Y and Feng, H and Chen, J and Shu, J},
title = {A Comprehensive Review of Coronavirus Non-Structure Protein 6 on Structure, Functions, Mechanisms and Its Implications for Antiviral Research.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070721},
pmid = {42515573},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {2025C01138//Pioneer/ ; },
abstract = {Coronaviruses encode a variety of non-structural proteins (NSPs) that collectively mediate viral genome replication, transcription and remodeling of the host cellular microenvironment. As a highly conserved transmembrane protein, non-structural protein 6 (NSP6) predominantly localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum. Through interactions with other viral proteins and host factors, NSP6 participates in multiple pivotal processes, including the formation and stabilization of double-membrane vesicles (DMVs), reprogramming of lipid metabolism, blockade of autophagic flux, and evasion of innate immunity. Recent advances in structural biology and research on virus-host interactions have further elucidated the essential roles of NSP6 throughout the viral life cycle. Mutations in NSP6 are closely associated with viral adaptability, transmissibility and pathogenicity. Herein, we comprehensively review the latest advances on the molecular structure, biological functions and mutation hotspots of coronavirus NSP6, as well as its implications for antiviral research. This review aims to provide a theoretical basis for further dissecting the pathogenic mechanisms of coronaviruses and developing broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.},
}

@article {pmid42515595,
year = {2026},
author = {Ilsby, CS and Kristensen, TL and Bagge, K and Bukh, J and Lisby, JG and Schneider, UV},
title = {Detectability of Pathogenic RNA Virus Families in Different Body Sites: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070743},
pmid = {42515595},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {Project number: 101102733//The DURABLE project/ ; },
abstract = {Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) are central to modern virology diagnostics. However, evidence supporting alternative specimen types remains uneven across viral families, especially for emerging viruses. This limits diagnostic flexibility in outbreak and clinically complex settings. We conducted a scoping review of NAAT detectability across key body sites for human RNA viruses. PubMed and Embase were systematically searched for studies reporting NAAT results from urine, blood, fecal, cerebrospinal fluid, or respiratory specimens. Data were independently screened and synthesized to summarize specimen-specific detectability for each virus. From 8676 screened records, 321 studies were included, covering 39 viruses across 25 RNA virus families. Detectability across specimen types varied substantially between viruses. Consistent detection across multiple specimens was observed for few viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, Zika virus, and HIV, whereas many emerging viruses were evaluated in a single body compartment with limited comparative data. NAAT performance across specimen types is highly virus-specific and unevenly studied, with reliance on blood or respiratory specimens, potentially overlooking viable, less invasive alternatives. Evidence gaps are particularly pronounced for urine and cerebrospinal fluid, and heterogeneous reporting limits cross-study comparability. Standardized, cross-specimen and longitudinal studies are needed to improve diagnostic strategies, outbreak preparedness, and future assay development.},
}

@article {pmid42515597,
year = {2026},
author = {Lin, S and Zhang, G and Wang, Q and Niu, K and Liu, Q},
title = {Mechanisms Underlying the Induction of Immunological Imprinting by RNA Viruses and Intervention Strategies.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070745},
pmid = {42515597},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {202549CE340077//Yunnan Key Laboratory of Screening and Research on Anti-pathogenic Plant Resources from Western Yunnan/ ; FZ2023ZD029, FZ2024YB004, FZ2025YB056//Dali University/ ; },
abstract = {The inherent genomic plasticity of RNA viruses, particularly influenza viruses and SARS-CoV-2, poses a major obstacle to the establishment of durable herd immunity. This challenge is further compounded by immune imprinting, whereby prior antigenic exposures bias subsequent responses toward previously encountered epitopes at the expense of effective recognition of antigenically drifted variants. In this review, we delineate the mechanistic basis of immune imprinting, with emphasis on the competitive dominance of cross-reactive memory B cells (MBCs). We discuss how the rapid "back-boosting" of these pre-existing clones can limit de novo priming of naïve B cells-through epitope masking and competition for antigen and T follicular helper cell support-thereby diverting germinal center selection and affinity maturation away from variant-specific de novo epitopes and promoting viral immune escape. To address this challenge, this article further reviews the characteristics of immune imprinting responses in influenza viruses, coronaviruses, and dengue virus, as well as corresponding countermeasures, providing a theoretical basis and new avenues for intervention to address immune imprinting induced by rapidly mutating RNA viruses.},
}

@article {pmid42515606,
year = {2026},
author = {Soares, VC and Dias, SSG},
title = {Antiviral Candidates and Vaccine Development for the Neglected Oropouche Virus.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070754},
pmid = {42515606},
issn = {1999-4915},
abstract = {The Oropouche virus (OROV), an orthobunyavirus primarily transmitted by the biting midge Culicoides paraensis, is the causative agent of Oropouche fever, a re-emerging arboviral disease associated with significant morbidity in Central and South America. The increasing frequency of outbreaks, including cases of sustained transmission in non-endemic regions and reports of vertical transmission, highlights the growing public health concern posed by OROV. Currently, there are no specific antiviral therapies or licensed vaccines available, underscoring the urgent need for effective therapeutic and preventive strategies. Recent advances in antiviral research have identified promising candidates, including repurposed drugs and bioactive compounds that target key stages of the viral replication cycle. In parallel, vaccine development has progressed through modern platforms, including viral vector-based and nucleic-acid-based technologies, enabling rapid responses to emerging outbreaks. However, major challenges remain, particularly due to the limited understanding of OROV pathogenesis, virus-host interactions, and the correlates of protective immunity. Furthermore, the ongoing evolution of OROV, including the genetic diversity and potential genomic rearrangements observed among circulating strains, represents an additional challenge that may influence viral characteristics and potentially affect the long-term efficacy of antiviral interventions and vaccine-induced protection. This review summarizes recent advances in the discovery of antiviral candidates and the development of vaccine approaches against OROV, both of which are essential for reducing the impact of OROV infections and strengthening preparedness for future outbreaks.},
}

@article {pmid42515632,
year = {2026},
author = {Setar, L and Coates, B},
title = {Age-Dependent Differences in the Antiviral Response of the Respiratory Epithelium.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070780},
pmid = {42515632},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {1T32HL076139/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; R01HL168672//National Heart Lung and Blood Institute/ ; P01HL154998//National Heart Lung and Blood Institute/ ; R01AI177498//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; },
abstract = {Age is an established risk factor for severe viral respiratory infections, yet the mechanisms driving increased severity of illness in infants and older adults remain incompletely understood. The respiratory epithelium is the primary target of viral infection and how it orchestrates the immune response may be a key determinant of clinical outcomes. The profound age-related difference in susceptibility to severe Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) brought increased attention to the epithelial response to viral infection in children and adults, adding significant data to the preexisting body of work largely focused on influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). This review synthesizes current knowledge on the structural and functional differences in the respiratory epithelium between children and adults at baseline and during viral infection. We review the variable and heterogenous human studies in addition to in vitro and animal model data to identify key gaps in current knowledge. Here, we advocate for a more complete understanding of age-dependent differences in the respiratory epithelial response to viral infection to uncover therapeutic targets for prevention and treatment of viral-associated respiratory failure.},
}

@article {pmid42515655,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, S and Wang, Y and Liu, C and Han, Y and Zong, R and Wang, S and Du, W and Yu, L and Li, Y},
title = {Drug Repurposing as a Broad-Spectrum Strategy Against Coronaviruses: Frontiers in Mechanisms and Clinical Translation.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070804},
pmid = {42515655},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {No. 32573409, No. 32172839//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; No. 252300423606//Natural Science Foundation of Henan/ ; },
abstract = {Coronaviruses (family Coronaviridae) are enveloped, positive-sense, single-stranded RNA viruses with broad host adaptability. They transmit across species among humans, livestock, companion animals, and wildlife, eliciting a disease spectrum ranging from mild respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms to fatal multi-organ failure, thereby posing significant challenges to global health. In this context, drug repurposing has emerged as a practical strategy for rapidly identifying broad-spectrum antivirals against emerging and re-emerging coronaviruses. Using coronaviruses as a paradigm, this review systematically summarizes research advances and mechanistic insights into the repurposing of existing drugs against coronaviruses. Simultaneously, we dissect core challenges including species-specific pharmacokinetic disparities, insufficient inter-genera conservation of viral targets, and systemic barriers between human and veterinary drug regulatory frameworks and propose innovative solutions encompassing AI-driven cross-species drug prediction, next-generation cross-species infection models, and a "human-veterinary dual-track" collaborative research and development system. Collectively, this review highlights the promise of drug repurposing as a broad-spectrum antiviral strategy and provides a translational perspective for the development of cross-species anti-coronavirus therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid42515657,
year = {2026},
author = {Helena, AL and Ozanique, PR and Lima, KHS and Tondato, WN and Baio, VYI and Soares, OHL and Regasini, LO},
title = {Chalcones as a Versatile Antiviral Scaffold: Molecular Targets, ADMET Profiles, and Translational Challenges.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/v18070806},
pmid = {42515657},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {Finance code 001//the Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior-Brasil (CAPES)/ ; },
abstract = {Chalcones are naturally occurring open-chain flavonoids widely distributed in plants and recognized for their broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. Their versatile scaffold allows for extensive structural modifications, leading to a diverse range of natural and synthetic derivatives with notable biological potential. In the context of viral infections, chalcones have demonstrated remarkable efficacy against a variety of human pathogens, including dengue virus, HIV, HCV, influenza A, SARS-CoV-2, and other emerging viruses. Beyond human health, several chalcones have shown potent activity against plant viruses such as tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), and animal viruses including porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and mammalian reovirus (MRV), underscoring their broad antiviral spectrum. These compounds act through multiple mechanisms, including the inhibition of viral enzymes (e.g., proteases, polymerases, and integrases), interference with viral entry and replication, and the modulation of host-related pathways. Recent advances in molecular docking, structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, and synthetic optimization have further highlighted chalcones as a promising scaffold for antiviral drug discovery. Accordingly, this review summarizes and categorizes antiviral chalcones reported over the last two decades, emphasizing and critically discussing their molecular targets, mechanisms of action, and pharmacological potential as lead compounds. It also provides a comparative perspective on their pharmacological relevance by correlating their activities against standard therapeutic agents and reference inhibitors. Furthermore, the most recurrent viral targets were critically discussed regarding their conservation, expected genetic barriers to resistance, and the global SAR trends identified for the corresponding antiviral chalcones. Finally, in silico ADMET profiling of the most promising naturally occurring chalcones was performed to evaluate their drug-likeness and pharmacokinetic properties, offering guidance for future structural optimization and translational development. Collectively, these findings highlight the chalcone scaffold as a versatile platform for the development of novel antiviral agents targeting diverse viral and host pathways.},
}

@article {pmid42515812,
year = {2026},
author = {Kozlova, AA and Borokh, VN and Oslovsky, VE and Alexeev, CS and Drenichev, MS},
title = {Chiral-Modified Nucleoside Analogues: From Bioactivity to Therapeutic Applications.},
journal = {Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {19},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ph19071131},
pmid = {42515812},
issn = {1424-8247},
support = {25-24-01136//Russian Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {Nucleosides are extensively employed for the development of pharmaceuticals, chemotherapeutic agents, and bioregulators. Background/Objectives: The introduction of an additional chiral functionality into a carbohydrate or heterocyclic base fragment may increase the selectivity of interactions with nucleos(t)ide-metabolizing enzymes and receptors and, in some cases, lead to more specific physiological activities. Methods: An improvement of the selectivity of nucleoside-based drugs can be achieved either by the chemical modification of a carbohydrate or a base constituent or by a combination of these two approaches. Additionally, stereospecific enzymatic cleavage of nucleos(t)ide prodrugs containing biodegradable substituents can reduce cytotoxicity and enhance bioavailability. Results: A series of enantiomerically pure nucleosides modified at the ribose or heterocyclic base were obtained by chemical and enzymatic methods. Novel antiviral or anticancer active compounds, inhibiting viral or cellular enzymes or activating cellular nucleoside kinases have been found among chemically synthesized derivatives. Some exhibit strengthened "ligand-receptor" interaction, acting on receptors of the purinergic signaling system. During recent extensive structure-activity studies, several drugs and their prototypes have been proposed for the treatment of viral infections: the 2'C-fluoromethyl derivative of sofosbuvir (anti-SARS-CoV, preclinical), VV-261 (SFTSV, phase I clinical), balapiravir (dengue, phase I clinical), mericitabine (approved drug for HCV), and lumicitabine (approved drug for RSV and HMPV). Conclusions: Modern literature data within the scope of the present review suggest that direct modification of nucleosides with various chiral functionalities can be considered as an approach to increase their efficacy, specificity and selectivity.},
}

@article {pmid42515816,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, X and Ding, S},
title = {Post-COVID-19 rise in central precocious puberty: an integrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism : JPEM},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42515816},
issn = {2191-0251},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with a marked increase in central precocious puberty (CPP), particularly among girls, with pooled estimates showing higher odds during pandemic than pre-pandemic periods. The available evidence supports a reproducible epidemiological signal, but it does not establish a single causal mechanism. This narrative review synthesizes epidemiological findings, clinical features, and proposed mechanisms, including sedentary behavior, weight gain, increased screen exposure, sleep and melatonin rhythm disruption, psychological stress, altered healthcare-seeking behavior, and environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Recent high-throughput toxicology data indicate that selected environmental compounds, including musk ambrette and some quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), can activate human KISS1R- or GnRHR-related signaling in experimental systems. However, pediatric exposure levels, internal dose, target-tissue concentrations, and disease-level causality remain unproven. We therefore frame these chemical findings as a hypothesis-generating exposomic perspective rather than as an established explanation for pandemic-era CPP. A cautious integrative model may help reconcile the strong female predominance, limited mean BMI shift, and temporal association with lockdown-related exposures, while defining testable priorities for future cohort, exposure, and mechanistic studies.},
}

@article {pmid42515932,
year = {2026},
author = {Vahid, F and Stopa, V and Malisoux, L and Devaux, Y and Lamy, E and Silva, FCE and Forberger, S and de Magistris, T and Sureda, A and Monserrat-Mesquida, M and Pérez-Jiménez, M and Nagrani, R and Onorati, MG and Fontefrancesco, MF and Turner, J and Desai, MS and Tur, J and Bouzas, C and Bonetti, GG and Riedel, O and Ravn-Haren, G and Andersen, R and Bohn, T},
title = {Established and Emerging Biomarkers to Characterize Persons at Risk for Obesity-Paving the Way for Targeted Clinical Intervention Trials-A Comprehensive Position Paper.},
journal = {Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70175},
doi = {10.1111/obr.70175},
pmid = {42515932},
issn = {1467-789X},
support = {n°101080645//European Union's Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme/ ; CB12/03/30038//CIBEROBN/ ; 101016072//EU Horizon 2020 project COVIRNA/ ; C14/BM/8225223//National Research Fund/ ; C17/BM/11613033//National Research Fund/ ; COVID-19/2020-1/14719577/miRCOVID//National Research Fund/ ; CA17129//COST Association/ ; CA21153//COST Association/ ; //Ministry of Higher Education and Research/ ; //Heart Foundation-Daniel Wagner of Luxembourg/ ; //Co-operative Research Programme (OCDE) (2023): Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems/ ; },
abstract = {Despite all efforts, obesity remains a major health concern worldwide, with continuously increasing rates, affecting approx. 14% of the total world population, being as high as 43% in some countries. As obesity is related to numerous comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and some types of cancer, the consequences for the individual and society at large are drastic. Therefore, it is crucial to understand and predict who is at risk of developing obesity in order to implement early prevention strategies. Many individual risk factors have been emphasized. However, as obesity is a rather multifactorial complication, single markers/biomarkers have thus far not allowed for an efficient prediction of obesity. In addition to less modifiable parameters, such as environment and socio-demographics, studies have revealed that obesity is related to several interacting aspects, including host factors such as genetics/epigenetics or gut microbiota, and more readily modifiable factors, including nutrition and physical activity, as well as sleep patterns and psychological well-being. It is likely that combining markers from across different domains, that is, multimodal markers, allows for better predictability for the risk of developing obesity. However, it must be considered that not all markers are fully predictive; many are rather reactive or even both. In this review and position paper, we emphasize the state-of-the-art regarding (bio)markers that have successfully been employed for predicting obesity risk. An emphasis will rest on novel, emerging biomarkers, and the need for a more integrative, multimodal assessment of obesity risk for a combined assessment aimed at improving risk prediction.},
}

@article {pmid42516401,
year = {2026},
author = {Theoharides, TC and Papadopoulou, P},
title = {Pathogen effects on the brain: the case of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and neuro COVID.},
journal = {Frontiers in neurology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1853951},
pmid = {42516401},
issn = {1664-2295},
abstract = {Many patients develop cognitive and neuropsychiatric issues after viral infections, but the mechanisms are not well understood. A case in point is Long-COVID syndrome, which may affect as many as 50 percent of patients after infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and is characterized by lingering physical and mental fatigue, brain fog and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Meanwhile, emerging evidence suggests the presence of inflammation around blood vessels in the brain due to the Spike protein remaining in "reservoirs" especially in the meninges that contain great numbers of the unique tissue immune cells, mast cells (MCs). In fact, Spike protein has been reported to stimulate MCs and microglia to release pro-inflammatory, neurotoxic and vasoactive mediators leading to Long-COVID and other neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, it is of great urgency to gain insight into how the Spike protein and neuroinflammatory molecules contribute to Long-COVID and how to regulate this response.},
}

@article {pmid42500010,
year = {2026},
author = {Hijano, DR},
title = {From data to action: a community-centered framework for translating community health assessment into coordinated public health strategy.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1879850},
pmid = {42500010},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Public Health Infrastructure ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Tennessee ; *Public Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Equity ; Needs Assessment ; },
abstract = {Public health agencies routinely conduct community health assessments, yet many jurisdictions continue to face challenges translating population health data into coordinated action that addresses structural determinants of health, health equity, and public health infrastructure needs. These challenges became increasingly visible during the COVID-19 pandemic and highlight the need for community-centered approaches that align public health, healthcare systems, and community partnerships across sectors. This Policy and Practice Review presents a community-centered framework for translating local population health data into coordinated, equity-oriented population health strategy. Using Shelby County, Tennessee, a large urban county in the southern United States, as an illustrative case, the analysis synthesizes publicly available datasets, community health needs assessments, and institutional reports to align local priorities, governance structures, and cross-sector operational strategies within a unified implementation approach. The framework organizes population health priorities into five domains: chronic disease prevention, maternal and child health equity, HIV and sexual health, behavioral health and substance use, and violence prevention and community safety. Across domains, the framework emphasizes shared measurement, data integration, community partnerships, trust, and cross-sector accountability as foundational components of sustainable population health improvement. Although not an implementation evaluation, this review offers a practical approach for jurisdictions seeking to strengthen public health infrastructure, operationalize equity-centered decision-making, and move from fragmented programs toward coordinated population health action responsive to evolving community needs.},
}

Humans
Public Health Infrastructure
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Tennessee
*Public Health
SARS-CoV-2
Health Equity
Needs Assessment

@article {pmid42500652,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, B and Tao, E},
title = {Immunological mechanisms and prevention strategies for febrile seizures in children.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1833132},
pmid = {42500652},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Seizures, Febrile/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Child ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {Febrile seizures (FS) affect 2-5% of children globally, causing significant caregiver anxiety and healthcare utilization. Emerging evidence implicates neuroinflammation and T-cell-mediated immunity in FS pathogenesis, suggesting potential targets for future investigation. This Review synthesizes current evidence on FS prevention, emphasizing a paradigm shift from universal pharmacological approaches toward risk-stratified, personalized strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic provided unique insights: non-pharmaceutical interventions reduced FS incidence by 54-70%, while the Omicron variant emerged as a novel trigger associated with complex FS features. Prevention is conceptualized within a three-level framework: primary prevention targets all children through vaccination (MMR, PCV13, COVID-19 vaccines) and infection control; secondary prevention focuses on high-risk children with prior FS, where risk stratification integrates clinical predictors (complex features, young age, low fever), biomarkers (hyponatremia, zinc/vitamin D deficiency, inflammatory indices), and pathogen-specific risks (influenza A, Omicron); tertiary prevention addresses complications and epileptogenesis in children with complex FS or genetic predisposition (SCN1A, PCDH19). Key immunological mechanisms include HMGB1-NLRP3 inflammasome activation, TRPV1-mediated Th17 differentiation, and IL-1β/IL-10 dysregulation. Antipyretics do not prevent FS recurrence during distant febrile episodes, while intermittent benzodiazepines (diazepam, intranasal midazolam) effectively reduce early recurrence in high-risk children (NNT = 6.8), albeit with adverse effects in up to 36%. Emerging frontiers include novel therapeutic targets (HMGB1 inhibitors, TRP channel modulators, TSP-1 pathway inhibitors) and non-pharmacological innovations (wearable sensors, chronotherapy). Crucially, caregiver education underpins all prevention levels, addressing high rates of parental anxiety (58.2%). This integrated framework guides clinical practice toward more individualized, risk-based management.},
}

Humans
*Seizures, Febrile/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Child
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccination

@article {pmid42501562,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Liu, X and Zhao, Y and Fang, H and Wang, Y and Chen, L},
title = {Selinexor as a multi-pathway regulator of the XPO1-inflammation Axis: Mechanisms, evidence in inflammatory diseases, and translational challenges.},
journal = {International immunopharmacology},
volume = {187},
number = {},
pages = {117185},
doi = {10.1016/j.intimp.2026.117185},
pmid = {42501562},
issn = {1878-1705},
abstract = {Selinexor (KPT-330), the first oral selective nuclear export inhibitor, simultaneously modulates key signaling pathways, including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, FOXO, Nrf2, and NLRP3, by blocking XPO1-mediated nuclear export, thereby offering a novel multi-target strategy for treating chronic inflammatory diseases. This review systematically integrates existing preclinical and early clinical evidence within the framework of "cytokine signaling networks", focusing on elucidating the molecular mechanisms and biological effects of selinexor in suppressing proinflammatory factor production, mitigating oxidative stress, and regulating inflammatory tissue-remodeling networks. Recent findings further indicate that SINE compounds can remodel proteostasis, including ankyrin repeat and SOCS box-containing protein 8 (ASB8)/Cullin-RING ligase 5 (CRL5)-associated XPO1 degradation and regulation of the ACE2-TMPRSS2-XPO1 coronavirus-entry network. However, current evidence primarily stems from in vitro and animal studies, and randomized controlled trials in human chronic inflammatory diseases are lacking. Moreover, hematopoietic and gastrointestinal toxicities observed in oncology settings suggest a narrow therapeutic window. This review emphasizes a stepwise translational logic from protein turnover and receptor regulation to next-generation XPO1 inhibitors. At present, selinexor is more suitable as a mechanistic tool for exploring the XPO1-inflammation axis, whereas inflammatory-disease translation will require eltanexor or related agents with more favorable tissue distribution and tolerability, together with precisely stratified clinical studies.},
}

@article {pmid42501745,
year = {2026},
author = {Dutta, T and Kumar, A},
title = {Harnessing Latent Dirichlet Allocation-based topic modeling to unveil the focus areas in Ayush healthcare in India.},
journal = {Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {101356},
doi = {10.1016/j.jaim.2026.101356},
pmid = {42501745},
issn = {0975-9476},
abstract = {The exponential growth of unstructured data has presented new opportunities for leveraging computational techniques to uncover meaningful insights in diverse domains, including healthcare. In the context of India's pluralistic medical ecosystem, the Ministry of Ayush plays a central role in shaping policies related to traditional systems such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Despite the increasing prominence of AYUSH, especially post-COVID-19, there has been limited scholarly engagement with its policy evolution through a data-driven lens. This study applies Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), a topic modeling technique, to analyze annual reports published by the Ministry of Ayush from 2012 to 2023. The research aims to (i) identify recent focus areas in alternate healthcare policy, (ii) track temporal shifts in strategic priorities, and (iii) uncover underrepresented themes in institutional discourse. The findings reveal evolving trends such as increased emphasis on research, integration with mainstream health systems, digital initiatives, and global promotion. The study identifies four critical dimensions that remain underrepresented within Ayush policy discourse: the positioning of Ayush philosophy as a frontline public health framework, the articulation of an Ayush-centric health system paradigm, the programmatic integration of mental health, and the systematic incorporation of artificial intelligence beyond foundational digital health initiatives, thereby identifying areas requiring greater strategic attention and reform. By introducing topic modeling into Indian healthcare policy research, this paper fills a key methodological gap and offers empirical insights into the policy trajectory of Ayush. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first application of LDA to Ayush's policy literature.},
}

@article {pmid42503166,
year = {2026},
author = {Palmer, E and Polivka, L and Fekete, M and Pándi, V and Megyaszai, Á and Rozgonyi, Z and Lukácsovits, J and Komáromi, T and Kováts, Z and Varga, JT},
title = {[Current issues and digital technologies in pulmonary rehabilitation].},
journal = {Orvosi hetilap},
volume = {167},
number = {30},
pages = {1199-1206},
doi = {10.1556/650.2026.33590},
pmid = {42503166},
issn = {1788-6120},
mesh = {Humans ; Digital Health ; Telemedicine ; Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/rehabilitation ; *Lung Diseases/rehabilitation ; Quality of Life ; COVID-19 ; Remote Patient Monitoring ; },
abstract = {Chronic respiratory diseases - including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung diseases, lung cancer, and post-COVID conditions - are associated with substantial morbidity and reduced quality of life. In addition to pharmacological therapy, chest physiotherapy and pulmonary rehabilitation play a crucial role in improving functional capacity and patient outcomes. This review aims to summarize contemporary approaches in pulmonary rehabilitation, with particular emphasis on the integration of digital technologies and telerehabilitation strategies. A narrative review of the literature was conducted focusing on the structure of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, training modalities, maintenance strategies, and the clinical applicability of telemedicine-based solutions. Pulmonary rehabilitation, particularly when combined with structured exercise programs, maintenance interventions, and telemonitoring systems, can significantly improve exercise tolerance, symptom control, and health-related quality of life. Modern digital technologies enable real-time monitoring of patient status, facilitate individualized rehabilitation strategies, and support early detection of disease exacerbations. Telemedicine platforms, smart inhalers, and wearable sensors represent promising tools for the management of chronic respiratory diseases. Data generated by these technologies may contribute to improved clinical decision-making and optimization of rehabilitation outcomes. The integration of pulmonary rehabilitation with digital health technologies may play a key role in the future management of chronic respiratory diseases and in maintaining long-term functional stability in affected patients. Orv Hetil. 2026; 167(30): 1199-1206.},
}

Humans
Digital Health
Telemedicine
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/rehabilitation
*Lung Diseases/rehabilitation
Quality of Life
COVID-19
Remote Patient Monitoring

@article {pmid42503519,
year = {2026},
author = {Hong, W and Alu, A and Zhang, Z and Zhang, Y and He, X and Xu, L and Li, M and He, W and Wang, J},
title = {Mucosal immunity and vaccine development.},
journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42503519},
issn = {2059-3635},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Mucosal/immunology ; *Vaccine Development ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/pathogenicity ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/virology ; Animals ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use ; Vaccination/methods ; },
abstract = {The mucosal system, which includes the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urogenital tracts, serves as a primary entry point for pathogens, with a unique immune microenvironment and specialized defense mechanisms. In recent years, especially following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been increasing recognition of the importance of mucosal immunity, motivated by an enhanced comprehension of its fundamental mechanisms. Currently, strategies based on mucosal delivery systems to administer antigens and induce strong mucosal protective immunity have become a key focus in the development of mucosal vaccines. Compared with conventional intramuscular delivery, mucosal vaccination can simultaneously elicit a robust local mucosal response, effectively block pathogen entry into the local mucosa, and generate systemic immune responses to prevent symptomatic infections and severe disease. In addition, mucosal delivery offers advantages such as ease of administration and low invasiveness, making it a more widely acceptable approach to vaccination. In the present study, we conducted a systematic review of the mechanisms of mucosal immunity, the technological platforms for mucosal vaccines, and proposed a perspective on the challenges and future directions for the development of next-generation mucosal vaccines, with the goal of enhancing public knowledge and awareness regarding mucosal immunity and its possible effects on global health.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Mucosal/immunology
*Vaccine Development
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/pathogenicity
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/virology
Animals
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use
Vaccination/methods

@article {pmid42504235,
year = {2026},
author = {Amiri, P and Mohammadi, NM and Sharifi, M and Mohammadi, A and Sharifi, H and Galavi, Z and Afsharifard, P},
title = {Mobile Health Interventions to Support Patients With Dementia During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {9},
number = {8},
pages = {e72883},
pmid = {42504235},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND AIMS: During the COVID-19 pandemic, mobile health (mHealth) utilization increased, especially among specific groups such as patients with dementia (PwD). This systematic review aimed to assess mHealth interventions among PwD during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: This systematic review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for English-language studies published between January 2019 and November 2025. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies reporting mHealth interventions for PwD during the COVID-19 pandemic were eligible. Study selection and data extraction were independently conducted by three reviewers. A thematic synthesis based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework was conducted using ATLAS.ti version 8.

RESULTS: Of the 16,691 records identified, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria, including 7 quantitative, 3 qualitative, and 3 mixed-methods studies conducted across 12 countries. The synthesis identified 36 drivers and 21 barriers influencing the adoption of mHealth interventions among PwD. Key drivers included perceived usefulness, ease of use, enhanced caregiver support, improved communication with healthcare professionals, and improved access to care. Major barriers comprised technical limitations, inadequate digital infrastructure, language and accessibility challenges, and limited digital literacy among caregivers.

CONCLUSION: mHealth interventions represent feasible tools for supporting PwD during public health emergencies by enabling remote monitoring, caregiver support, and continuity of care. In practice, healthcare providers should prioritize user-friendly mHealth solutions tailored to caregivers' digital literacy and dementia severity. At the policy level, investments in digital infrastructure, technical support, and caregiver training programs are essential to reduce adoption barriers and ensure equitable implementation of mHealth interventions.},
}

@article {pmid42504319,
year = {2026},
author = {Pitton Rissardo, J and Katz, M and Byroju, VV and Fornari Caprara, AL and Walker, IM},
title = {Neurodegeneration in Parkinson's Disease: The Role of Environmental Toxins.},
journal = {Journal of central nervous system disease},
volume = {18},
number = {},
pages = {11795735261461554},
pmid = {42504319},
issn = {1179-5735},
abstract = {Parkinson's disease (PD) is a rapidly growing global health challenge, with prevalence projected to reach 13-14 million cases by 2040. While aging and improved diagnostic awareness partly explain this trend, mounting evidence implicates environmental factors as critical contributors. This review synthesizes current literature on exposures such as pesticides, solvents, heavy metals, air pollutants, and infectious agents, emphasizing their mechanistic links to neurodegeneration. These factors interact with genetic susceptibility and aging, supporting the "multiple-hit" hypothesis, which posits that PD arises from cumulative insults rather than a single cause. Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and impaired protein clearance emerge as convergent pathways underlying dopaminergic vulnerability. Recent findings highlight viral infections-particularly SARS-CoV-2-as potential triggers or amplifiers of PD pathogenesis, raising concerns about long-term neurological sequelae following pandemics. Beyond individual toxins, the exposome concept underscores the lifelong interplay of physical, chemical, and social exposures in shaping disease risk. Climate-related changes, including increased air pollution and wildfire frequency, further compound these risks, suggesting a systemic dimension to PD etiology. Understanding these complex interactions is essential for developing preventive strategies, refining experimental models, and informing public health policies aimed at mitigating environmental contributions to neurodegeneration. This multifactorial perspective offers a foundation for future research targeting modifiable risk factors and resilience mechanisms in PD.},
}

@article {pmid42504772,
year = {2026},
author = {Saad, C and Sammour, C and Nguyen, T and Asmar, C and Slaiby, N and Asmar, R and Menendez, JP and Rangel, T and Nicolas, G and de Freitas Busnardo, F and Gemperli, R},
title = {Marin-Amat syndrome: a comprehensive review of pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management.},
journal = {Orbit (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/01676830.2026.2706730},
pmid = {42504772},
issn = {1744-5108},
abstract = {PURPOSE: Marin-Amat syndrome is a rare, acquired facial synkinesis characterized by involuntary eyelid closure upon jaw opening. It is historically confused with other types of synkinesis, despite distinct underlying mechanisms. This scoping review aims to clarify the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and optimal treatment modalities for Marin-Amat syndrome.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Studies published from inception to January 2026 were screened. Inclusion criteria were restricted to cases of acquired synkinesis manifesting as eyelid closure triggered by jaw movement. Congenital syndromes were excluded.

RESULTS: Twenty articles met inclusion criteria, comprising 37 patients. The mean age was 55.8 ± 23.3 years. Bell's palsy was the most common etiology (73.0%), followed by iatrogenic or surgical injury (8.1%), trauma (8.1%), COVID-19-associated palsy (8.1%), and vascular causes (2.7%); latency to onset ranged from approximately 24 days to 40 years. Electrophysiologic and clinical descriptions supported active orbicularis oculi co-contraction consistent with post-paralytic synkinesis, with a margin reflex distance-1 reduction of roughly 0.5-2.5 mm on jaw opening. Botulinum toxin type A directed at the orbicularis oculi produced effective but transient control. Selective preseptal orbicularis myectomy or resection, frequently combined with levator advancement or plication when concomitant ptosis was present, achieved durable resolution and high satisfaction without reported recurrence.

CONCLUSION: Marin-Amat syndrome is a distinct clinical entity resulting from aberrant regeneration of the facial nerve. Botulinum toxin is effective for temporary management, while surgical myectomy combined with ptosis correction represents the definitive treatment for long-term functional and aesthetic restoration.},
}

@article {pmid42505458,
year = {2026},
author = {Han, Y and Jo, H and Ju, M and Bae, S and Kim, JY and Yoon, J and Lee, T},
title = {Recent Progress in Artificial Intelligence in Biosensor Development: From Bioprobe Design to Fabrication and Signal Analysis.},
journal = {Biosensors},
volume = {16},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/bios16070382},
pmid = {42505458},
issn = {2079-6374},
support = {RS-2025-24683337//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2024-00416117//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; KOITA-2026-0002-29//Korea Industrial Technology Association/ ; },
mesh = {*Biosensing Techniques/methods/instrumentation ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Humans ; Machine Learning ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Electrochemical Techniques ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the need for rapid, accurate, and point-of-care diagnostic technologies, accelerating interest in biosensors as next-generation analytical platforms. However, biosensor performance is governed by a connected sequence of processes, including bioprobe-target recognition, sensor fabrication, structural optimization, and signal interpretation. Because these processes involve multiple interacting variables, conventional empirical approaches often have limitations in efficiently optimizing biosensor performance and interpreting complex analytical signals. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) provide tools to model these relationships and support prediction-guided biosensor development. This review discusses recent progress in AI-assisted biosensor development in three sequential stages. First, AI-assisted bioprobe design is reviewed, including in silico aptamer discovery, smart-SELEX-based aptamer screening, and peptide receptor design for improving molecular recognition. Second, AI-driven sensor fabrication and structural optimization are discussed, focusing on electrochemical feature extraction, paper-based microfluidic device optimization, and optical biosensor parameter prediction. Third, ML-based signal analysis is examined as a strategy for converting complex electrochemical, colorimetric, and optical responses into quantitative analytical outputs. By organizing these examples as a connected workflow rather than as separate applications, this review highlights how AI can link molecular design, device engineering, and signal interpretation to accelerate the development of next-generation biosensors.},
}

*Biosensing Techniques/methods/instrumentation
*Artificial Intelligence
Humans
Machine Learning
*COVID-19/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
Electrochemical Techniques

@article {pmid42505558,
year = {2026},
author = {Hudu, SA and Alruwaili, M and Soliman, M and Morad, EA and Alhazimi, GM and Jimoh, AO},
title = {From Pandemic Innovation to Platform Diversification: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Preclinical Development of Non-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccines.},
journal = {Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diseases14070230},
pmid = {42505558},
issn = {2079-9721},
support = {NBU-CRP-2026-3770//Northern Border University/ ; },
abstract = {Background: Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have emerged as a versatile platform beyond SARS-CoV-2, with expanding applications in infectious diseases and oncology. However, comprehensive evidence synthesis of non-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines remains limited. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261323500). MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP were systematically searched for studies published between 1 January 2000 and 28 February 2026. Eligible studies included phase I-III clinical trials and in vivo preclinical studies evaluating non-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using RoB 2, ROBINS-I, and SYRCLE tools. Findings were synthesized narratively because of substantial heterogeneity. Results: A total of 40 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review, comprising 20 clinical studies and 20 preclinical studies. Advanced clinical programs targeted influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), with phase III trials displaying seroconversion rates above 70% with good safety profiles. Preliminary phase I studies for HIV, cytomegalovirus, rabies, and personalized cancer mRNA vaccines showed promising humoral and cellular immune responses. Preclinical studies showed strong antibody and T-cell responses against malaria, tuberculosis, Group B Streptococcus, and Zika virus. Most adverse events were mild to moderate, while serious vaccine-related adverse events were uncommon. Conclusions: Non-SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines demonstrate substantial translational potential across infectious disease and oncology applications. Although the vaccine candidates have demonstrated promising immunogenicity and safety, most are in the early stages of development. This highlights the need for large trials, long-term safety follow-up and better global representation.},
}

@article {pmid42505582,
year = {2026},
author = {Frosolini, A and Benedetti, S and Vaira, LA and Gabriele, G and Gennaro, P},
title = {Oncological Care During a Crisis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck Region in the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/diseases14070254},
pmid = {42505582},
issn = {2079-9721},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted healthcare, prompting adaptations in oncological practices. This systematic review evaluates the pandemic's impact on the management of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) of the head and neck (H&N) region.

METHODS: The review was reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies compared pre-pandemic and pandemic periods in adult patients treated for head and neck NMSC reporting outcomes related to histological distribution, time to treatment initiation, reconstructive method, and surgical margin status. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed for outcomes with sufficient extractable data.

RESULTS: The review comprised five studies involving 1318 cases. The relative distribution of basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma did not differ significantly between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods. Time to treatment initiation showed no significant overall change, although heterogeneity was high, indicating substantial variability among healthcare settings. Reconstruction shifted significantly toward primary closure compared with flap reconstruction during the pandemic period (OR 1.90; 95% CI: 1.46-2.47; p < 0.0001). Negative surgical margins were reported in 1119 of 1266 excisions/cases with available data (88.4%), with no significant difference between pre-pandemic and pandemic periods (OR 0.77; 95% CI: 0.46-1.32; p = 0.34).

CONCLUSIONS: The pandemic was associated with a shift toward simpler reconstructive strategies, particularly increased use of primary closure, likely reflecting attempts to reduce operative complexity and resource use. While short-term oncologic outcomes appeared broadly preserved, long-term functional, aesthetic, and patient-reported outcomes remain insufficiently characterized. Future studies should evaluate these outcomes to better inform crisis-adapted oncologic and reconstructive care pathways.},
}

@article {pmid42505617,
year = {2026},
author = {Lucaciu, FC and Rosca, O and Mihai, AM and Sima, A and Suba, MI and Wellmann, N and Rosian, A and Oancea, C and Cialma, M and Tarau, A and Bosoanca, A and Marc, M},
title = {Antibiotic Use, Bacterial Co-Infection, and Antimicrobial Resistance in Adults Hospitalized with COVID-19, Influenza, or RSV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Antibiotics (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/antibiotics15070654},
pmid = {42505617},
issn = {2079-6382},
support = {5/4270/04.03.2025//Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adults hospitalized with COVID-19, influenza A/B, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) frequently receive empirical antibiotics, but antibiotic prescribing, confirmed bacterial co-infection, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and outcomes have not been jointly synthesized across these infections.

METHODS: We conducted a PRISMA 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis of 39 studies including 839,531 hospitalized adults. Random-effects models with Freeman-Tukey double-arcsine transformation pooled prevalence estimates; sensitivity and publication-bias analyses were performed where appropriate.

RESULTS: Pooled antibiotic use was 62.56% (95% CI, 53.75-70.97%) for COVID-19, 57.48% (25.76-86.09%) for influenza A/B, and 76.03% (67.62-83.53%) for RSV, with very high heterogeneity. Confirmed bacterial co-infection was lower: 5.31% (3.43-7.56%), 18.66% (9.98-29.30%), and 24.36% (18.53-30.70%), respectively. Prescribing-to-confirmed infection ratios ranged from 3.0 to 46.2. AMR evidence was restricted to COVID-19 studies and was dominated by carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms, mainly in secondary, ICU-associated, or healthcare-associated infections. Confirmed bacterial complications were associated with ICU admission, longer hospitalization, and higher mortality.

CONCLUSIONS: Antibiotic prescribing exceeded confirmed bacterial infection across all viral groups, but estimates require cautious interpretation due to heterogeneity, diagnostic uncertainty, observational evidence, and the absence of low-risk-of-bias studies. The evidence base was dominated by COVID-19 cohorts, while influenza A/B and RSV data, especially virus-specific AMR evidence, remain limited. COVID-19-specific AMR findings should not be generalized to influenza A/B or RSV. Virus-specific stewardship should prioritize rapid diagnostics, systematic sampling, reassessment, and de-escalation when bacterial infection is not confirmed.},
}

@article {pmid42506036,
year = {2026},
author = {Filipska-Blejder, K and Biercewicz, M and Jabłońska, R and Królikowska, A and Haor, B and Ślusarz, R},
title = {Behind Closed Doors: Elder Abuse as an Overlooked Pandemic of Modern Times.},
journal = {Nursing reports (Pavia, Italy)},
volume = {16},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/nursrep16070249},
pmid = {42506036},
issn = {2039-4403},
abstract = {Elder abuse is internationally recognized as a growing problem of the 21st century that requires urgent intervention and action. This review aimed to synthesize evidence on the prevalence and risk factors of elder abuse between 2010 and 2022. A total of 2875 articles were identified through database searches, of which 28 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis (24 cross-sectional studies, 3 prospective studies, and 1 descriptive study). Reported prevalence rates of elder abuse ranged from 2.2% to 81.2% overall, while studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic reported rates ranging from 1.6% to 44.7%. Psychological abuse was the most frequently reported form of violence. The most commonly identified risk factors included low income, low educational level, gender, disability, depression, and-during the COVID-19 pandemic-social isolation. Across most studies, individuals with lower education and women were statistically more likely to experience abuse. The findings indicate substantial variability in the prevalence of elder abuse both before and during the pandemic, with consistently high rates observed. These results highlight the urgent need for improved screening, education, and targeted interventions by healthcare and social service professionals.},
}

@article {pmid42506341,
year = {2026},
author = {Poboży, T and Poboży, K and Domańska-Poboża, J and Konarski, W},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on the Development of Femoral Head Avascular Necrosis: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medsci14030372},
pmid = {42506341},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {Humans ; *Femur Head Necrosis/etiology/epidemiology/diagnostic imaging ; *COVID-19/complications ; Adrenal Cortex Hormones/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 has been linked to musculoskeletal complications, including femoral head avascular necrosis (AVN). Both COVID-19-related hypercoagulability and corticosteroid therapy have been proposed as contributing factors. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on the occurrence, clinical characteristics, timing, and risk factors for femoral head AVN following COVID-19.

METHODS: A PRISMA-compliant systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Scopus identified observational studies and case series (≥10 patients) reporting femoral head AVN in adults or adolescents with confirmed COVID-19. Data on epidemiology, symptom onset, imaging findings, and corticosteroid exposure were narratively synthesized due to heterogeneity.

RESULTS: Fifteen eligible studies described patients with post-COVID femoral head AVN. Symptom onset ranged from days to >12 months after infection. Early MRI often revealed asymptomatic or low-grade disease. Corticosteroid exposure was common and strongly associated with AVN severity; however, several studies reported AVN in patients without steroid use, whether this reflects an independent contribution of COVID-19 or unrecognized confounding cannot be determined from the available uncontrolled data. Higher cumulative steroid doses, severe pulmonary involvement, and elevated inflammatory markers were consistently linked to more advanced AVN stages.

CONCLUSIONS: Femoral head AVN is an emerging post-COVID complication with variable timing and presentation. Corticosteroid exposure remains the principal risk factor; whether COVID-19 contributes independently of corticosteroids is unproven, and current evidence supports an association rather than a causal relationship. Awareness of this potential complication is warranted, although the role of early MRI screening remains to be established in prospective studies.},
}

Humans
*Femur Head Necrosis/etiology/epidemiology/diagnostic imaging
*COVID-19/complications
Adrenal Cortex Hormones/adverse effects/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
Pandemics

@article {pmid42506369,
year = {2026},
author = {Bajić, D and Andrijević, L and Todorović, N and Lalić-Popović, M and Zarić, B and Dimić, S and Stojčević Maletić, J and Lendak, D and Milijašević, B and Milošević, N},
title = {High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C in Critical Illness: A Translational Exposure-Response Framework for Biomarker-Guided Precision Therapy.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/medsci14030400},
pmid = {42506369},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage/pharmacokinetics/therapeutic use ; *Critical Illness/therapy ; Biomarkers/blood ; COVID-19 ; Sepsis/drug therapy ; *Precision Medicine/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Administration, Intravenous ; Respiratory Distress Syndrome/drug therapy ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {High-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) has been investigated as a potential adjunctive therapy in critical illness, including sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and COVID-19. Despite a strong mechanistic rationale, clinical trials have yielded inconsistent results. From a clinical pharmacology perspective, this variability may reflect, at least in part, differences in pharmacokinetic exposure, timing of administration, and patient selection rather than a lack of biological activity. Intravenous administration enables plasma concentrations in the millimolar range (≈1-5 mM), far exceeding those achievable with oral dosing (<100 µM), thereby reaching thresholds required for pharmacodynamic effects on oxidative stress, immune signaling, and endothelial function. This exposure-dependent transition distinguishes vitamin C as a pharmacological agent rather than a nutritional supplement in critically ill populations. Therapeutic response may be influenced by timing relative to disease progression, with earlier administration representing a biologically plausible strategy that warrants prospective evaluation rather than a clinically established therapeutic window. Interindividual variability in transporter function, redox status, and genetic background may further contribute to heterogeneous responses. Biomarkers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, and markers of endothelial injury provide a framework for patient stratification and monitoring of pharmacodynamic effects. Integrated with pharmacokinetic principles, these markers support a shift toward biomarker-guided, precision-based therapeutic strategies. This review synthesizes current clinical and mechanistic evidence through an exposure-response conceptual framework, framing HDIVC as a context-dependent pharmacological intervention and advancing a shift toward biomarker-guided, precision-based therapeutic strategies in critical illness.},
}

Humans
*Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage/pharmacokinetics/therapeutic use
*Critical Illness/therapy
Biomarkers/blood
COVID-19
Sepsis/drug therapy
*Precision Medicine/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Administration, Intravenous
Respiratory Distress Syndrome/drug therapy
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
Pandemics

@article {pmid42506596,
year = {2026},
author = {Mpakosi, A and Moutsopoulou, RA and Cholevas, S and Lianou, A and Samata, A and Tziraki, F and Vogiatzis, I and Cholevas, V and Iliodromiti, Z and Boutsikou, T and Iacovidou, N and Tsantes, AG and Sokou, R},
title = {A Double-Edged Sword: Breast Milk-Derived Maternal Antibodies and Infant Vaccine Responses: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14070559},
pmid = {42506596},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Neonatal defense against pathogens relies on maternal antibodies transferred both through the placenta (IgG) and through breast milk (primarily secretory IgA). Maternal IgG antibodies are transferred across the placenta to the fetus mainly via the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), which is expressed at high levels in placental syncytiotrophoblasts, and results in the acquisition of maternal-fetal IgG. Transplacental transfer via the FcRn pathway can provide therapeutic proteins and protective antibodies following maternal vaccination. However, maternal IgG antibodies can bind to vaccine antigens such as measles, tetanus, and poliovirus, resulting in rapid clearance through FcgRIIB-mediated inhibition and inadequate B cell activation. In this way, they can inhibit de novo immune responses and significantly reduce vaccine response. On the other hand, the interference that breast milk-derived antibodies may have on vaccine-induced immunity is still largely unknown. Vaccination against influenza, pertussis, and COVID-19 during pregnancy or lactation has been shown to induce the production of protective, pathogen-specific, secretory IgA and IgG antibodies in breast milk. Conversely, studies found that breast milk-derived antibodies of vaccinated mothers reduced vaccine-induced immunity in breastfed infants by accelerating the clearance of vaccine antigen, resulting in reduced antigen availability and reduced plasma cell formation after vaccination. Additional factors in middle- and low-income countries, including environmental (increased microbiome diversity, environmental intestinal dysfunction, malnutrition, co-infections) and breastfeeding practices, may exacerbate the interference effect of maternal antibodies. Current evidence supports that breastfeeding is associated with a reduced immunological response exclusively to the rotavirus vaccine. However, the limited evidence base to date precludes definitive conclusions regarding the role of breast milk-derived antibodies in modulating vaccine-induced immunity. Nevertheless, the evidence suggests that although maternal antibodies may theoretically reduce vaccine immunogenicity, the overall protective benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential interference with vaccine responses.},
}

@article {pmid42506608,
year = {2026},
author = {Galili, U},
title = {Arming Inactivated Enveloped Virus Vaccines with the GGTA1 Gene: A Potent Method for Amplification of Viral Vaccines Effectiveness and Protection Against Variants.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14070571},
pmid = {42506608},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {This review describes a novel method for increasing the effectiveness of inactivated enveloped whole-virus vaccines by targeting them for extensive uptake by antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Several inactivated whole-virus vaccines with dense glycan shields display suboptimal effectiveness because the multiple carbohydrate chains (glycans) on the virus mask immunogenic peptides and surround the virus with a negative electrostatic charge that decreases uptake by APCs. It is postulated that engineering such vaccinating viruses to present the carbohydrate antigen "α-gal epitope" on the glycan shields will immunocomplex them with the anti-Gal antibody; thus, it will target them for robust uptake by APCs. Anti-Gal is an abundant natural antibody in humans, constituting ~1% of human circulating immunoglobulins. The ligand of anti-Gal is the α-gal epitope, which is naturally synthesized in non-primate mammals and New World monkeys by the glycosylation enzyme α1,3galactosyltransferase. This enzyme is encoded by the GGTA1-gene. Viral vaccines presenting multiple α-gal epitopes on their glycan shield bind anti-Gal and activate the complement system to produce complement chemotactic cleavage peptides C5a and C3a that induce extensive recruitment of APCs to vaccine injection sites. The virion-bound anti-Gal further targets the viral vaccine for robust uptake by APCs, following binding of its Fc "tail" to Fcγ-receptors on APCs. The efficacy of this method was studied in anti-Gal-producing mice with α-gal presenting inactivated influenza virus vaccine and with gp120 of HIV presenting this epitope. These studies indicated that virus vaccines engineered to present α-gal epitopes increase anti-virus antibody production and virus-specific T-cell activation by 15- to 100-fold in comparison to the same vaccines lacking α-gal epitopes. It is suggested that α-gal presenting inactivated SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccines can induce a similar protective long-term immune memory against S- M-, E-, and N-viral proteins. Furthermore, immune-escaping variants of the mutated S-protein may be destroyed by antibodies to M and E proteins, and cells infected with such variants may be killed by cytotoxic T cells specific to peptides of the N-protein. Such an anti-M-, E-, and N-protein immune protection may prevent expansion of these variants and thus may avoid the need for immunization with COVID-19 vaccines every 6 months or following the appearance of new variants. A similar potent immunization may be achieved with an inactivated Ebolavirus vaccine engineered to present α-gal epitopes on the glycan shield. The resulting immune response to the various Ebolavirus proteins also may contribute to cross-reactive protection against other Ebolavirus species containing proteins with evolutionarily conserved structures. An effective method for the preparation of a whole-virus vaccine presenting α-gal epitopes is by arming it with the GGTA1-gene inserted into the viral genome. Such virions will present multiple α-gal epitopes on their glycan shield, which will amplify their immunogenicity instead of reducing it in the wild-type virus.},
}

@article {pmid42506648,
year = {2026},
author = {Siniscalchi, C and Imbalzano, E and Basaglia, M and Cerundolo, N and Meschi, T and Prati, B and Parise, A and Nouvenne, A and Di Micco, P},
title = {Six Years of COVID-19: Lessons from Epidemiology, Vaccination Campaigns, Clinical Risk Stratification, and Thromboembolic Surveillance.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14070611},
pmid = {42506648},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Six years after the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 remains a dynamic public health challenge shaped by viral evolution, heterogeneous population immunity, changing vaccine strategies, and the long-term consequences of acute infection. Although the transition from pandemic emergency to endemic circulation has reduced the global burden of severe disease, COVID-19 continues to affect vulnerable populations, particularly older adults, frail patients, immunocompromised individuals, and subjects with multiple comorbidities. Vaccination has substantially modified the clinical course of infection, reducing hospitalization, intensive care admission, and mortality, while also reshaping surveillance priorities toward variant monitoring, vaccine effectiveness, waning immunity, breakthrough infections, and long COVID. At the same time, the pandemic has highlighted the need for integrated clinical risk stratification, including age, sex, frailty, inflammatory biomarkers, respiratory support requirements, and thromboembolic risk. Venous and arterial thrombotic complications have represented a key feature of severe COVID-19 and remain relevant for both acute management and post-discharge follow-up. This narrative review summarizes the main lessons learned from six years of COVID-19, focusing on epidemiology, vaccination campaigns, clinical risk assessment, thromboembolic complications, and surveillance strategies. Particular attention is given to the need for multidisciplinary and data-driven approaches capable of integrating virological, epidemiological, clinical, geriatric, and vascular medicine perspectives. Future COVID-19 surveillance should move beyond case counting and incorporate vaccine impact, population vulnerability, thrombotic and bleeding complications, long-term outcomes, and preparedness for emerging variants.},
}

@article {pmid42506651,
year = {2026},
author = {Zuo, N and Zheng, X and Ishaq, R and Ren, D and Hu, A},
title = {The Role of Human Viral Entry Receptor Mouse Models in Advancing Antiviral Antibodies and Vaccines.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14070614},
pmid = {42506651},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Human viral entry receptor mouse models exist to overcome a fundamental experimental barrier: many clinically important viruses bind their human entry factors far more efficiently than the corresponding murine orthologs, leaving conventional mice unable to support authentic infection, physiological tissue tropism, or meaningful countermeasure evaluation. This review is organized around the receptor-humanization concept rather than around a single coronavirus model. Engineering strategies compared here include random transgenesis, endogenous-locus knock-in, minimal receptor-interface humanization, conditional and inducible expression, and transient vector-mediated delivery. Receptor systems covered span human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2)-dependent sarbecoviruses, human dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (hDPP4)-dependent Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), human cluster of differentiation 4/human C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (hCD4/hCCR5)-dependentt human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1), adenovirus receptor models, human intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (hICAM-1) rhinovirus systems, hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis D virus (HDV) entry-factor models, measles receptor models, poliovirus receptor/CD155 (PVR/CD155) models, human scavenger receptor class B member 2 (hSCARB2) enterovirus systems, and human transferrin receptor 1 (hTfR1) arenavirus models. We then discuss how these platforms support antibody evaluation, Fc-effector analysis, vaccine protection, variant benchmarking, and safety assessment. These models yield the most reliable data when the experimental question is explicitly entry-dependent and when receptor expression level, anatomical distribution, pathology window, and immune context have all been independently validated. They are least informative when receptor expression is non-physiological, when disease readouts are driven by promoter artifacts, or when post-entry species barriers remain the dominant bottleneck. A validation-centered framework is therefore proposed to guide the selection of each model for the specific antiviral antibody or vaccine question it can legitimately answer.},
}

@article {pmid42506659,
year = {2026},
author = {Maria, F and Branda, F and Ceccarelli, G and Scarpa, F and Ciccozzi, M and Russo, A},
title = {From Vaccine Skepticism to Institutional Distrust: The Post-Pandemic Shift.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14070622},
pmid = {42506659},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Background: Vaccine hesitancy has traditionally been understood as a multifactorial phenomenon shaped by individual beliefs, risk perceptions, and access barriers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally transformed the relationship between citizens, science, and public institutions, raising the question of whether vaccine hesitancy has evolved into a broader form of institutional distrust. Objective: This narrative review synthesizes evidence on vaccine confidence, trust dynamics, misinformation, and post-pandemic attitudes to propose a new conceptual framework, i.e., institutional hesitancy, that reframes vaccine acceptance within the wider context of institutional credibility, transparency, and legitimacy. Methods: We conducted a narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed literature, surveillance reports, and cross-national surveys published between 2015 and 2026, focusing on trust in science, governments, public health agencies, healthcare systems, and regulatory authorities as determinants of vaccination behavior. Results: The evidence consistently demonstrates that institutional trust is among the strongest predictors of vaccine acceptance, often surpassing traditional demographic and knowledge-based variables. The pandemic exposed and amplified pre-existing fractures in the relationship between citizens and institutions, creating a legacy of institutional skepticism that extends beyond COVID-19 vaccines to routine immunization programs, seasonal vaccination campaigns, and future pandemic preparedness. Traditional information-based approaches, which assume that knowledge deficits drive hesitancy, have proven insufficient when trust is compromised. Instead, rebuilding vaccine confidence requires sustained investment in institutional transparency, community engagement, and accountable governance. Conclusions: The post-pandemic era calls for a fundamental reconceptualization of vaccine hesitancy. We propose the institutional hesitancy framework as a complementary lens that shifts the analytical focus from individual knowledge deficits to relational dynamics between citizens and institutions. Addressing this challenge requires moving beyond communication campaigns toward long-term strategies that restore institutional trust and strengthen the resilience of public health systems.},
}

@article {pmid42506664,
year = {2026},
author = {Ndembi, N and Folayan, MO and Pilorget, A and Ntinginya, NE and Mwesigwa, B and Crowell, TA and Mgodi, NM and Kim, JH},
title = {Beyond PrEP: The Imperative for an HIV Vaccine to End the Epidemic in Africa.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/vaccines14070627},
pmid = {42506664},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {The era of highly effective pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has transformed HIV prevention, yet global HIV incidence remains unacceptably high, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. While antiretroviral-based prevention is critical, persistent structural barriers to access and adherence highlight the urgent need for a complementary preventive HIV vaccine. In this narrative review and perspective, we argue that scientific progress toward an HIV vaccine must be matched by equally ambitious preparedness investments across three domains: manufacturing and supply chains, clinical trial and regulatory infrastructure, and delivery systems and community engagement. Drawing on lessons from the global rollout of PrEP, post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and the COVID-19 pandemic response, we outline a five-pillar strategic roadmap. This roadmap focuses on ensuring that a future HIV vaccine reaches the people who need it most from the moment of regulatory authorization, calling for co-investment in diverse platforms, binding advance market commitments, logistical simulation, and proactive planning for post-licensure effectiveness trials. Preparedness is not secondary to science; it is its essential partner.},
}

@article {pmid42506782,
year = {2026},
author = {Amare, SN and Choon Yee, K and Leung, M and Naunton, M and Wilson, A and Rooney, A and Gannash, O and Bushell, M},
title = {The Evolution of Pharmacist Administered Vaccinations in Australia: A Narrative Review of Legislation and Regulatory Documents.},
journal = {Pharmacy (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/pharmacy14040092},
pmid = {42506782},
issn = {2226-4787},
abstract = {Background: Since 2014, all Australian jurisdictions have progressively amended legislation to authorise pharmacists to administer vaccines, evolving from restricted pilots to an essential public health pillar. Objective: This review analyses the longitudinal evolution of pharmacist-administered vaccinations (PAVs), documenting changes in authorised vaccines, age eligibility, and regulatory frameworks across all Australian jurisdictions. Methods: A retrospective review of Australian jurisdictional legislation, regulations, and policy documents was undertaken. Searches included official legislative registers, Government Gazettes, Health Department protocols, and professional guidance published by Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) and The Pharmacy Guild of Australia between 2014 to 2026. Documents were independently reviewed by five authors, followed by secondary verification and consensus-based adjudication to resolve discrepancies and confirm findings. Results: PAVs scope was expanded from a single influenza pilot in 2014 to include over 21 vaccine-preventable diseases by 2026. The COVID-19 pandemic catalysed rapid reform, leading to the standardisation of age eligibility (largely ≥5 years). A landmark milestone occurred in 2025 when South Australia enabled pharmacists to administer any vaccine within their professional scope. Conclusion: Legislative reforms have significantly enhanced vaccine accessibility. However, jurisdictional fragmentation persists. National harmonisation, using a competency-based model similar to South Australia, is recommended to streamline delivery and optimise public health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42210098,
year = {2026},
author = {Alsarayreh, M and Moawad, MHED and Barham, H and Abdelkarim, OY and Al-Janabi, DRF and Alkhawaldeh, IM and Abdul-Hafez, HA},
title = {Awake prone positioning reduces mortality, intubation, and hospital stay in acute hypoxemic respiratory failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 6,164 patients.},
journal = {BMC anesthesiology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42210098},
issn = {1471-2253},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Insufficiency/mortality/therapy ; Prone Position ; *Length of Stay/statistics & numerical data ; *Intubation, Intratracheal/statistics & numerical data ; Wakefulness ; *Hypoxia/therapy/mortality ; Respiration, Artificial ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Patient Positioning/methods ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality and often requires advanced respiratory support. Awake prone positioning (APP) has emerged as a simple, low-cost intervention to improve oxygenation in non-intubated patients; however, its clinical effectiveness and safety remain uncertain.

AIM: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of awake prone positioning in non-intubated adult patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted from database inception to February 2026. Randomized controlled trials and observational comparative studies evaluating APP versus usual care were included. Primary outcomes were mortality, intubation, and length of hospital stay. Secondary outcomes included ICU stay, invasive mechanical ventilation, ICU admission, escalation of respiratory support, time to invasive ventilation, and adverse events. Risk of bias was assessed using ROB 2 for randomized trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies. Meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: Twenty-four studies involving 6,164 patients were included. APP significantly reduced mortality (OR = 0.60, 95% CI 0.42-0.86, p = 0.005), intubation (OR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.60-0.79, p < 0.00001), length of hospital stay (MD = - 0.70 days, 95% CI - 1.07 to - 0.32, p = 0.0003), ICU stay (MD = - 2.84 days, 95% CI - 5.44 to - 0.24, p = 0.03), and invasive mechanical ventilation (OR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.31-0.58, p < 0.00001). No significant differences were observed in ICU admission, escalation of respiratory support, or adverse events.

CONCLUSION: Awake prone positioning was associated with improved clinical outcomes, including reduced mortality, intubation, and hospital stay, without an apparent increase in adverse events. However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously given the observed heterogeneity and potential publication bias. Further high-quality randomized trials are needed to confirm these results.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Insufficiency/mortality/therapy
Prone Position
*Length of Stay/statistics & numerical data
*Intubation, Intratracheal/statistics & numerical data
Wakefulness
*Hypoxia/therapy/mortality
Respiration, Artificial
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Patient Positioning/methods

@article {pmid42498334,
year = {2026},
author = {Smith, LG},
title = {Emerging Viral Infections: Nursing Implications and Management Strategies.},
journal = {Critical care nursing clinics of North America},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {359-367},
doi = {10.1016/j.cnc.2026.04.005},
pmid = {42498334},
issn = {1558-3481},
mesh = {Humans ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/nursing/epidemiology ; COVID-19/epidemiology/nursing ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/nursing ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/nursing ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Infectious diseases have circulated the globe since the dawn of time, and new ones are seen often. Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are defined as a newly found or an already known infectious disease that is rapidly increasing in incidence. COVID-19 changed the theoretic risk of this to a reality. Frontline providers, particularly nurses, were at the forefront of caring for those with COVID-19. This article discusses the history of EID, how care is and should be provided to patients with infectious disease, and future work that needs to be done.},
}

Humans
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/nursing/epidemiology
COVID-19/epidemiology/nursing
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/nursing
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/nursing
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42499246,
year = {2026},
author = {Orue, A and Cornejo, A and Rangel, HR},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 and Cancer Biology: Exploring the Mechanistic Links.},
journal = {Cancer reports (Hoboken, N.J.)},
volume = {9},
number = {7},
pages = {e70629},
pmid = {42499246},
issn = {2573-8348},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications/virology ; *Neoplasms/immunology/virology/pathology/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; Pandemics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Signal Transduction ; MicroRNAs ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Five years after the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 and the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term implications of COVID-19 for cancer biology remain incompletely understood. Beyond the major disruptions in cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment observed worldwide, increasing attention has focused on whether SARS-CoV-2 infection and post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (Long COVID) may induce persistent biological alterations relevant to tumor progression or recurrence.

RECENT FINDINGS: Current evidence does not support SARS-CoV-2 as a classical oncogenic virus or demonstrate direct viral carcinogenesis. However, experimental, transcriptomic, and clinical studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection can induce persistent inflammatory and immune alterations that overlap with pathways implicated in cancer biology. Among the most consistently reported findings are chronic activation of IL-6/STAT3 and NF-κB signaling, immune dysregulation, T-cell exhaustion, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and senescence-associated inflammatory programs. Additional proposed mechanisms include perturbation of tumor suppressor pathways, epigenetic remodeling, and microRNA alterations involving the let-7/LIN28B/STAT3 axis. Experimental models have further suggested that inflammatory remodeling induced by respiratory viral infection may influence dormant tumor cell behavior and tissue microenvironments under defined conditions. However, many of these observations derive from in vitro systems, animal models, or association studies, and their long-term relevance to human oncogenesis remains uncertain.

CONCLUSION: Collectively, current evidence supports the existence of convergent biological mechanisms between SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammatory stress responses and pathways involved in cancer progression, rather than direct oncogenic transformation. Future longitudinal studies integrating immune profiling, inflammatory biomarkers, transcriptomic and epigenetic analyses, and clinical cancer outcomes will be essential to determine whether persistent post-infectious alterations contribute to tumor progression, recurrence, or susceptibility in selected patient populations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/complications/virology
*Neoplasms/immunology/virology/pathology/genetics
SARS-CoV-2
Animals
Pandemics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Signal Transduction
MicroRNAs

@article {pmid42496299,
year = {2026},
author = {Lim, ECN and Cheng, NCL and Lim, CED},
title = {Infection-Associated Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome: A Review of Immunological Mechanisms, Clinical Phenotypes, and Therapeutic Strategies.},
journal = {Infectious disease reports},
volume = {18},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {42496299},
issn = {2036-7430},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) describes the rapid onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms or severe food restriction, accompanied by neuropsychiatric or somatic features that are not better explained by another disorder. PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal infections) is a related, more narrowly defined construct in which symptoms are temporally associated with group A Streptococcus infection. This review examines clinical symptoms, infectious associations, proposed immune mechanisms, biomarker limitations, and treatment strategies for infection-associated PANS/PANDAS.

METHODS: A structured narrative search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar/publisher-indexed literature, ClinicalTrials.gov, and reference lists was performed up to 16 June 2026. Original cohorts, case series, systematic reviews, narrative reviews, consensus guidance, mechanistic studies, and registered prospective studies were prioritized. The review was not designed as a PRISMA-ScR scoping review; however, the methods were expanded to improve transparency and align with SANRA principles.

RESULTS: Group A Streptococcus remains the best characterized infectious association, although prospective studies have not uniformly demonstrated a consistent temporal relationship between streptococcal infection and neuropsychiatric exacerbations. Parent-reported surveys and case-based literature also describe temporal associations with Mycoplasma pneumoniae, influenza-like illnesses, upper respiratory infections, Borrelia burgdorferi, Epstein-Barr virus, and SARS-CoV-2. Proposed mechanisms include molecular mimicry, anti-D1R and anti-D2R antibodies, other antineuronal antibodies, calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II signaling, blood-brain barrier vulnerability, cytokine and Th17 effects, neuroinflammatory amplification, basal ganglia/CSTC circuit dysfunction, and gut-oral-brain immune interactions. None currently provides a definitive diagnostic biomarker.

CONCLUSIONS: Infection-associated PANS is best approached as a clinically defined, heterogeneous neuroimmune presentation that requires rigorous differential diagnosis, multidisciplinary care, cautious treatment escalation, prospective biomarker validation, and large, multicenter treatment trials.},
}

@article {pmid42496488,
year = {2026},
author = {Khalid, H and Istanaksai, A and Abbasi, M},
title = {Screen Time and Myopia-Related Outcomes in European Children: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Vision (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {10},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42496488},
issn = {2411-5150},
abstract = {Myopia is an increasingly common refractive disorder in children, with growing concern regarding the potential role of screen time and digital device use in its development and progression. This systematic review assessed the association between screen-related behaviours and myopia in European children and adolescents. A systematic search of Ovid Embase, Ovid MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane/CENTRAL was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidance. Original English-language studies published within the last 10 years were included if they involved participants aged <18 years, were conducted in Europe, and investigated screen time, digital device use, near-work behaviour or related lifestyle exposures in relation to myopia-related outcomes. A total of 1196 records were identified across the databases. After duplicate removal, title and abstract screening, and full-text assessment, 14 studies were included. Overall, the evidence suggested an association between screen-related behaviours, prolonged near work, reduced outdoor exposure and myopia-related outcomes in European children. However, findings were heterogeneous, and screen exposure was often measured using broad or proxy variables, including total screen time, smartphone use, internet data consumption, computer use, handheld near-screen use and COVID-19-related lifestyle change. Outdoor activity appeared to be a protective factor, while parental myopia was an important risk factor and confounder. Most included studies were observational, many were cross-sectional, and several relied on self- or parent-reported exposure measures, limiting causal inference and introducing potential recall bias. Overall, the certainty of evidence was low to very low. Practical advice should therefore be framed around balanced digital device use, regular breaks from prolonged near work, appropriate viewing distances and increased outdoor activity, while further longitudinal studies using objective screen-use measures, cycloplegic refraction and axial length outcomes are needed to clarify causality.},
}

@article {pmid42496967,
year = {2026},
author = {Akinnawo, A and Bécares, L and Pollock, A and Rachet, B},
title = {Has COVID-19 Exacerbated Ethnic-Related Inequalities in Cancer Care in the UK? Findings from a Narrative Review with a Systematic Search.},
journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42496967},
issn = {2196-8837},
support = {ES/P00072X/1//Economic and Social Research Council/ ; },
abstract = {Ethnic inequalities in cancer care have long been a concern in the UK, with minoritised populations facing inequalities in access, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these inequities, worsening barriers to care. This narrative literature review, which incorporates a systematic search, examines the impact of the pandemic on ethnic inequalities in cancer care in the UK. Findings indicate that due to the pandemic, ethnic minority patients experienced lower screening uptake, greater delays in diagnosis, and reduced access to timely treatment. GP referral thresholds were higher for ethnic minority groups, leading to later-stage diagnoses, while emergency presentations and treatment delays were more frequent. Systemic healthcare pressures and communication gaps further contributed to inequalities. Addressing these inequities requires urgent policy interventions, including improved access to screening, equitable referral processes, and culturally sensitive care pathways. Further research is needed to assess post-treatment outcomes and evaluate targeted interventions. As the NHS recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic's disruptions, ensuring equitable access to high-quality cancer care for all ethnic groups must remain a priority.},
}

@article {pmid42497965,
year = {2026},
author = {Bustos, M and Rodríguez-Hernández, MÁ},
title = {IL-6 family cytokines behind acute COVID-19 and Long COVID syndrome: Mechanisms, biomarkers, and intervention strategies.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Molecular cell research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {120198},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbamcr.2026.120198},
pmid = {42497965},
issn = {1879-2596},
abstract = {IL-6 family of cytokines is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to the immune alterations observed in COVID-19 and its long-term sequelae. Beyond the well-established pro-inflammatory actions of IL-6 itself, members of this family collectively orchestrate a complex network integrating antiviral defence, tissue repair, and maladaptive inflammation. Evidence accumulated over the past five years suggests altered regulation and signalling of those cytokines may help explain the heterogeneity of clinical outcomes, ranging from acute respiratory failure to persistent post-COVID symptoms. Recent advances -including the development of multispecific fusion proteins capable of simultaneously blocking viral entry and selectively modulating IL-6-related inflammatory pathways- highlight the expanding therapeutic potential of targeting this cytokine axis. Effective intervention requires precise knowledge of the cytokines temporal expression patterns to avoid interfering with beneficial immune responses. This review examines the molecular mechanisms involving IL-6 family cytokines, their promise as biomarkers of disease progression, and the current or emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating their signalling pathways.},
}

@article {pmid42498332,
year = {2026},
author = {Youngblood, SR},
title = {Optimizing Care in Respiratory Infections: Advanced Approaches to Mechanical Ventilation.},
journal = {Critical care nursing clinics of North America},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {327-334},
doi = {10.1016/j.cnc.2026.04.003},
pmid = {42498332},
issn = {1558-3481},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiration, Artificial/methods ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/etiology ; Patient Positioning ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/therapy ; },
abstract = {Caring for patients with respiratory infection induced acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a complex task. During the Covid-19 pandemic, patients with ARDS due to Covid-19 overwhelmed the hospitals and traditional care practices were not as effective leading to a high mortality rate. This caused many providers to seek out other less traditional treatments for these patients in order to save lives. Proper patient positioning, ventilation settings, and ventilation delivery changes were some of the areas explored. As the pandemic has resolved, retrospective studies have looked at the effectiveness of these changes with mixed results.},
}

Humans
*Respiration, Artificial/methods
*COVID-19/therapy/complications
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/etiology
Patient Positioning
*Respiratory Tract Infections/therapy

@article {pmid41084261,
year = {2026},
author = {AlMatar, M and Eker, E and Naser, OS and Lakhal, R and Alkalaf, T},
title = {Determination of Potential Inhibitors against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Helicobacter pylori Shikimate Dehydrogenase by using Virtual Screening.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical design},
volume = {32},
number = {21},
pages = {1654-1663},
pmid = {41084261},
issn = {1873-4286},
mesh = {*Mycobacterium tuberculosis/drug effects/enzymology ; *Helicobacter pylori/drug effects/enzymology ; Humans ; *Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Alcohol Oxidoreductases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; *Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/enzymology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; Drug Design ; Computer-Aided Design ; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical ; },
abstract = {Drug development is expensive and time-consuming, and current efforts to lower the process's financial and temporal costs rely increasingly on computational methodologies. Specifically, during emergencies such as the coronavirus 2019 pandemic, the time needed for vaccine and medical research is increased. Computer-aided drug design (CADD) is a powerful tool for discovering potential therapeutic compounds in traditional drug discovery, having surpassed other high-throughput screening methods commonly used in drug development. The advancement of numerous clinically utilized medications has been significantly aided by CADD. CADD can be approached in two main ways: (1) ligand-based (analogue-based) and (2) structurebased (target-based). Both methods utilize molecular mechanics (MM) force fields to represent atomic-level interactions and define molecular shapes, energy, and motion. The two predominant approaches in drug design are structure-based drug design and ligand-based drug design, both of which provide insights into drugreceptor interactions. Therefore, CADD plays a crucial role in identifying suitable pharmacological properties and compatibility, providing a significant advantage in pre-clinical trials. In this review, we reported the use of the computer-aided drug discovery (CADD) technique to suggest new therapeutic targets and possible inhibitor ligands for M. tuberculosis, S. aureus, and H. pylori. The results of the review may be useful in managing the treatment problems brought on by the higher incidence of antibiotic resistance in the aforementioned bacteria.},
}

*Mycobacterium tuberculosis/drug effects/enzymology
*Helicobacter pylori/drug effects/enzymology
Humans
*Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry
*Alcohol Oxidoreductases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
*Staphylococcus aureus/drug effects/enzymology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
Drug Design
Computer-Aided Design
Drug Evaluation, Preclinical

@article {pmid41677183,
year = {2026},
author = {Rubin, DT and Danese, S and Nakase, H and Ungaro, RC and Wolf, DC and Alekseeva, O and Petersen, A and Liu, Z and Mehra, D and Jain, A and Osterman, MT and Krakovich, A and Riolo, JV and DeBoer, E and Appio, J and Sinh, P and Cree, BAC and Cohen, JA and Irving, P},
title = {Integrated long-term safety of 10-year ozanimod treatment: results from clinical trials in patients with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis or relapsing multiple sclerosis.},
journal = {Inflammatory bowel diseases},
volume = {32},
number = {5},
pages = {954-962},
pmid = {41677183},
issn = {1536-4844},
support = {//Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ, United States/ ; //Bristol Myers Squibb/ ; //Peloton Advantage/ ; //OPEN Health company/ ; },
mesh = {Adult ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Young Adult ; *Colitis, Ulcerative/drug therapy ; Follow-Up Studies ; *Indans/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/drug therapy ; Nasopharyngitis/chemically induced ; *Oxadiazoles/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Sphingosine 1 Phosphate Receptor Modulators/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Treatment Outcome ; Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Ozanimod is a once-daily oral selective sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor modulator approved for the treatment of moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) or relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). Previous analyses in both indications demonstrated favorable long-term safety profiles of ozanimod. Here we report an integrated analysis of the long-term safety of ozanimod in patients with UC or RMS.

METHODS: Data were pooled in patients with UC who received ozanimod in phase 2, phase 3, and open-label extension (OLE) trials and in patients with RMS who received ozanimod in an OLE trial after completing any phase 1-3 parent trial. Safety assessments included treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and laboratory abnormalities.

RESULTS: Overall, 3652 patients with UC or RMS had 16 144 patient-years (PY) of ozanimod exposure over 10 years of follow-up. The most common TEAEs were nasopharyngitis, headache, and coronavirus disease 2019. Rates of TEAEs leading to treatment discontinuation (1.4/100 PY) and TEAEs of special interest, including serious infections (1.0/100 PY), herpes zoster (0.5/100 PY), malignancies (0.4/100 PY), bradycardia (0.1/100 PY), sinus bradycardia (0.04/100 PY), complete atrioventricular block (0.01/100 PY), and macular edema (0.1/100 PY), were low. No serious hepatic events or Hy's law cases occurred. Absolute lymphocyte count of < 200 cells/µL was not temporally associated with serious or opportunistic infections.

CONCLUSIONS: Long-term exposure to ozanimod is well tolerated in patients with moderate to severe UC or RMS, confirming the previously established safety profile of ozanimod.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY: NCT01647516; NCT02435992; NCT02576717.},
}

Adult
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Young Adult
*Colitis, Ulcerative/drug therapy
Follow-Up Studies
*Indans/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/drug therapy
Nasopharyngitis/chemically induced
*Oxadiazoles/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Severity of Illness Index
*Sphingosine 1 Phosphate Receptor Modulators/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Treatment Outcome
Clinical Trials, Phase II as Topic
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic

@article {pmid42174572,
year = {2026},
author = {Hunting, G and Hankivsky, O and Christoffersen, A},
title = {Taking stock of intersectionality-informed policy guidance for post-pandemic recovery: a scoping review.},
journal = {International journal for equity in health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42174572},
issn = {1475-9276},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Health Policy ; *Public Policy ; *Health Equity ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: COVID-19 was a catalyst for popularizing intersectionality, an approach now recognized as central to understanding the inequitable consequences of COVID-19 and as a necessary lens for recovery. Yet, a key question remains: Did the pandemic provide the stimulus for improving or advancing operational policy-relevant guidance for intersectionality? Answering this is critical, given persistent calls for practical policy guidance for operationalizing intersectionality. This article explores this question by first providing a brief overview of intersectionality, including its value-added in relation to equity-promoting public policies. We then summarise how intersectionality was taken up during and post-pandemic, situating these trends within the broader field of intersectionality-informed research and policy. Following this, we present findings derived from a review of guidance for applying intersectionality in the context of COVID-19.

METHODS: The literature reviewed derives from a larger scoping review (conducted by the authors) of guidance (including tools, guides, and frameworks) intended to facilitate the application or operationalization of intersectionality as relevant to public policy. Inclusion criteria for the scoping review included English language, any date (to end of 2023), presents user-friendly guidance, mentions policy, and contains intersectional* in the title.

RESULTS: Our findings show that despite much discussion on intersectionality in relation to COVID-19 and the increase in intersectionality guidance since the outbreak, little guidance was developed on how to conduct intersectionality-informed analysis in relation to COVID-19 or post-pandemic recovery. Yet, our analysis also shows that the guidance focused on COVID-19 stands out as more robust than the majority of intersectionality guidance produced to date. Specifically, the COVID-19 guidance reflects the foundational tenets of intersectional analysis and action, boosting its potential to capture and address inequities. This is in contrast to the broader scoping review which indicates that most existing intersectionality guidance has failed to do this.

CONCLUSION: It is pressing that researchers, policy actors and practitioners who seek to take up intersectionality in their work critically take stock of promising practices in intersectionality guidance - exemplified by the COVID-19 guidance reviewed in this article - to strengthen how inequities are captured and addressed.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Health Policy
*Public Policy
*Health Equity

@article {pmid42491406,
year = {2026},
author = {Šalamon, Š and Kruger, A and Lupton, D and Pretorius, E and Ewing, AG and Bar-Yam, Y},
title = {COVID-19 Is Airborne AIDS: Provocative Oversimplification, Emerging Science, or Something in Between?.},
journal = {AJPM focus},
volume = {5},
number = {4},
pages = {100458},
pmid = {42491406},
issn = {2773-0654},
abstract = {Immune dysfunction and systemic effects in HIV and SARS-CoV-2 infections are distinct but share relevant similarities and downstream consequences. The authors compare and contrast observations of the immunological impacts of COVID-19 and HIV infections. By examining shared and distinct mechanisms, such as immune dysfunction, vulnerability to opportunistic infections, accelerated aging, and neurocognitive disorders, the authors highlight critical parallels and their implications. The authors review the extensive scientific evidence showing that SARS-CoV-2 infections result in immune cell depletion, dysfunction, and exhaustion, with impacts on several immune system cell types. Higher rates of individual susceptibility to infections lead to population-wide increases in diverse infectious diseases, including those that are signatures of immunodeficiency. Finally, the authors characterize societal responses to both pandemics, providing insights into public health strategies and lessons for improving current and future research, treatment, preparedness, and mitigation efforts.},
}

@article {pmid42492397,
year = {2026},
author = {Serrão, ASR and do Amaral Teixeira, L and Pereira Serrão, GM and Comarú, MW and Pierini, MF and Mota, FB and Lopes, RM},
title = {Virtual reality in nursing education: Integrating technology, pedagogy, and learning outcomes - A scoping review.},
journal = {Nurse education in practice},
volume = {95},
number = {},
pages = {104905},
doi = {10.1016/j.nepr.2026.104905},
pmid = {42492397},
issn = {1873-5223},
abstract = {AIM: To map and synthesize how VR has been applied in nursing education by integrating technologies, pedagogical strategies, learning outcomes and implementation challenges.

BACKGROUND: Virtual Reality (VR) has become an increasingly relevant educational tool in nursing education, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, evidence remains fragmented across technological, pedagogical and learning dimensions.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted according to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Searches were performed in the Web of Science Core Collection for studies published between 2020 and 2024. Sixty-eight empirical studies met the inclusion criteria, including randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, observational, descriptive, mixed-methods and feasibility studies.

RESULTS: VR applications ranged from immersive head-mounted displays to interactive virtual platforms, supporting the development of technical and socio-emotional competencies. Common pedagogical approaches included simulation-based learning, problem- and scenario-based learning, self-directed learning, feedback and reflective debriefing. Self-confidence and self-efficacy were the most frequently assessed outcomes, followed by satisfaction and engagement, with predominantly positive findings. Improvements in practical performance and knowledge acquisition were also reported, although outcomes were often comparable to traditional educational approaches. Across studies, educational effectiveness was consistently associated with instructional design features, particularly feedback, repeated practice and structured reflection. Technical limitations, physical discomfort and institutional barriers were the main implementation challenges.

CONCLUSIONS: VR is a complementary pedagogical resource whose effectiveness depends on instructional design and purposeful curricular integration. Future research should prioritize long-term outcomes, transfer to clinical practice and cost-effectiveness analyses.},
}

@article {pmid42492839,
year = {2026},
author = {Typiak, M and Piwkowska, A},
title = {Various effects of ADAM10 and ADAM17 metalloproteases on kidney (dys)function.},
journal = {Biochimica et biophysica acta. Molecular basis of disease},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {168380},
doi = {10.1016/j.bbadis.2026.168380},
pmid = {42492839},
issn = {1879-260X},
abstract = {A disintegrin and metalloprotease 10 (ADAM10) and ADAM17 regulate cellular communication by shedding membrane-bound proteins. They participate in numerous physiological processes, e.g. contribute to proper glomerular filtration maintenance. Because of their broad substrate specificity, their activity is tightly regulated and dependent on the local tissue microenvironment, including blood glucose fluctuations. The dysregulation of ADAM10/17-mediated shedding has been associated with the development of several kidney diseases. Increases in ADAM10/17 mRNA, protein levels, and activity have been reported in renal disorders, suggesting their possible application as indicators of renal involvement in systemic diseases. Serum and urinary levels of soluble ADAM10/17 substrates, shed from resident kidney cells, may serve as early biomarkers of renal dysfunction. ADAM10/17 have also emerged as potential therapeutic targets in renal diseases. Thus, the present review summarizes current knowledge of the various roles ADAM10/17 perform in kidney physiology and pathophysiology, with a particular emphasis on diabetic kidney disease.},
}

@article {pmid42493737,
year = {2026},
author = {Lanrewaju, AA and Folami, AM and Sabiu, S and Swalaha, FM},
title = {Advancing Antiviral Design: Integrating Natural Products, Computation and Targeted Delivery.},
journal = {Chemical biology & drug design},
volume = {108},
number = {1},
pages = {e70365},
doi = {10.1111/cbdd.70365},
pmid = {42493737},
issn = {1747-0285},
support = {//South African Medical Research Council/ ; SRUG2204193723//National Research Foundation of South Africa/ ; K5/C2020-2021-00181//Water Research Commission/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Biological Products/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Drug Design ; *Drug Delivery Systems ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Machine Learning ; Drug Discovery ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the role of rapid viral mutation and global connectivity in accelerating viral emergence and spread, emphasising the necessity for expedited and adaptable antiviral drug discovery and development. Despite ongoing efforts to develop effective, low-toxicity therapeutics, the number of antivirals that have achieved clinical approval remains limited. The shortfall is especially significant in developing countries, where access to new antivirals is limited by high prices, few options, import dependence, unstable supply chains and weak purchasing systems. The challenge is further heightened by the emergence of increasingly drug-resistant variants while vaccines often provide inadequate protection against newly mutated or novel viruses. Consequently, the identification of novel antiviral agents that are both effective and cost-efficient via innovative strategies for antiviral drug discovery is essential to manage and control viral infections. Therefore, this review examines the different challenges associated with conventional antiviral drugs alongside recent strategies in antiviral drug discovery and development, such as the exploitation of plant secondary metabolites with antiviral properties, advanced microscopy technologies, computer-aided drug design, artificial intelligence and machine learning, gene-editing technologies, drug combination therapy and nanotechnology-enhanced drug delivery systems. Additionally, this study proposes a simple decision-focused pathway integrating natural products, computation and targeted delivery to guide candidate prioritisation, optimisation and translation from discovery to implementation. While these emerging strategies offer considerable promise, challenges related to validation, toxicity, scalability and equitable access remain important considerations for successful clinical translation. Future research should therefore integrate complementary technologies to accelerate the development of effective antiviral agents against current and emerging viral threats.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
*Biological Products/chemistry/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Drug Design
*Drug Delivery Systems
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Machine Learning
Drug Discovery

@article {pmid42493748,
year = {2026},
author = {Khubchandani, J and Prabhu, N and Craig, K and Wiblishauser, M and Mustapha, T and Srejon, RR and Batra, K},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccination Refusal and Non-Uptake Among People Living with HIV in the United States.},
journal = {Journal of community health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42493748},
issn = {1573-3610},
support = {102066//Merck/ ; },
abstract = {More than a million individuals in the United States are living with HIV and constitute a particularly vulnerable group for morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19. Despite the early availability and prioritization of this group for COVID-19 vaccination, notable levels of vaccine refusal and non-uptake have been reported among this group. This scoping review aimed to investigate the nature and extent of COVID-19 vaccine refusal and non-uptake among people living with HIV (PLWH) in the USA. A comprehensive literature search was performed utilizing multiple scholarly databases for studies published between December 2020 and May 2026 that reported on COVID-19 vaccine refusal or non-uptake rates among PLWH in the USA. Data extraction focused on sample size, refusal/non-uptake rates, reasons for refusal, and vaccination enablers. A total of 27 studies were included, encompassing 185,430 PLWH from various settings across the U.S. and the COVID-19 vaccination refusal and non-uptake rates varied from 3.8% to 57.9% [average across all studies=21.0% (95% CI=16.2-26.2%)]. Major barriers identified included medical mistrust, apprehensions regarding vaccine safety and side effects, misinformation, structural issues such as poverty and housing instability, and sociodemographic factors (e.g., sexual/ethnic minority status, lower income or education). Conversely, enablers of vaccination included older age, male gender, White race, active engagement in HIV care, previous vaccination history, recommendations from trusted providers, and higher perceived infection risk or belief in vaccination. The refusal and non-uptake rates for COVID-19 vaccines among PLWH in the USA are considerable and influenced by multiple factors. Interventions should focus on addressing systemic mistrust and psychosocial or structural obstacles while utilizing the existing HIV care framework to increase vaccination rates in this population.},
}

@article {pmid42494498,
year = {2026},
author = {Banik, I and Coppé, JP},
title = {CRISPRing through time: How cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing life sciences and medicine.},
journal = {Molecular therapy. Nucleic acids},
volume = {37},
number = {3},
pages = {103003},
pmid = {42494498},
issn = {2162-2531},
abstract = {Given the plethora of emerging technologies, none have truly captured the minds as CRISPR. From the groundbreaking research, the ultimate battle of the prizes and patents to a number of books, the science of CRISPR continues to be significant in the biomedical field. For many decades now, the emergence of synthetic biology as an intervention to correct diseases has become the foundation of biomedical research. Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-based genetic editing has become a common place for routine investigation of scientific hypotheses in pre-clinical settings. More recently, CRISPR-based diagnostic testing kits for SARS-CoV-2 have showcased a translational output. Furthermore, a technological landmark was achieved when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first CRISPR-based gene therapy (exa-cel) to edit erythroid specific enhancer region of BCL11A in hematopoietic stem cells, introduced in patients suffering from sickle cell anemia to achieve durable remission. In this review, we provide a snapshot into the most important milestones along the journey of CRISPR from its discovery in bacteria to its usage in precision medicine. The intervention of machine learning tools has now intertwined complex biology with high-throughput scalable outputs. Given the vast amount of information on CRISPR, we try to pin down key take-home messages for scientists as well as non-scientist readers. This review article attempts to understand why and how CRISPR remains significant and seamlessly integrates in the emerging era of new technologies.},
}

@article {pmid42494546,
year = {2026},
author = {Billias, N and D'Alessandro, V and Pouliopoulou, DV and Wong, JJ and Miller, E and Hopkins, JP and Boutsikari, EC and Cipriano, LE and da Veiga Pereira, T and Johnstone, J and Stranges, S and Weese, JS and MacDermid, JC and Quinn, KL and Fisman, DN and Bobos, P},
title = {Mapping Reported Modes of Transmission of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (H5N1) to Humans: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {23},
number = {},
pages = {101492},
pmid = {42494546},
issn = {2352-7714},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A (subtype H5N1) poses a threat to human health, and its pandemic potential emphasizes the need to better understand detailed reported transmission pathways to humans. Existing literature is outdated or lacks detailed, comprehensive analysis of the range of transmission routes and how the virus may enter the human body.

OBJECTIVE: To comprehensively map all reported H5N1 transmission pathways to humans, as well as viral entry routes.

METHODS: CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, Scopus, PubMed, grey literature, and reference lists (of included studies) were searched up to October 29th, 2025, with no language restrictions. Observational studies and grey literature reporting H5N1 transmission evidence to humans were included. Two reviewers conducted duplicate screening independently (two of three reviewers per record). One reviewer completed data extraction, which was cross-verified for accuracy by a second. Findings were summarized narratively.

RESULTS: 120 sources met inclusion criteria (70 studies, 50 grey literature). Reported H5N1 transmission pathways were classified into animal-to-human (109 of 120 sources, 90.8%; including poultry-to-human in 100 sources [83.3%] and cattle-to-human in nine sources [7.5%]), environment-to-human (32 of 120 sources, 26.7%), and human-to-human (14 of 120 sources, 11.7%). Reported transmission pathways were further classified as direct or indirect contact, synthesized, and linked to suspected routes of human entry, including mucosal entry (eyes, nose, mouth), inhalation of aerosols or droplets, ingestion, and percutaneous exposure. Entry routes are biologically plausible and do not imply relative likelihood or causal attribution.

CONCLUSIONS: There are multiple reported pathways of H5N1 exposure, and a single pathway may involve multiple ways to infect humans. Further research is needed to determine causal mechanisms, identify specific risk factors and measures of association, and strengthen evidence-based prevention strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42494828,
year = {2026},
author = {Hadley, L and Ben Miled, S and Clapham, HE and Djaafara, BA and Dyson, L and Funk, S and Gog, JR and Heesterbeek, H and Hill, EM and Howerton, E and Isham, V and Kebir, A and Keeling, M and Kissler, SM and Lessler, J and Leung, K and McBryde, E and McCaw, JM and Mercado, CEG and Mollison, D and Thumbi, SM and Pan-Ngum, W and Pellis, L and Pérez-Reche, FJ and Plank, MJ and Thompson, RN and Tran-Kiem, C},
title = {How understanding the diversity of perspectives and systems in governments can increase the impact of scientific research.},
journal = {Communications health},
volume = {1},
number = {1},
pages = {13},
pmid = {42494828},
issn = {3091-4841},
abstract = {The COVID-19 crisis required scientists worldwide to contribute to complex, hectic, and unfamiliar governmental decision-processes. In this Perspective, we reflect on this intense interaction between science and health policy for pandemic response, drawing from the experience of infectious disease modellers across the world. We highlight the diversity of actors and interests in government, aiming to demystify the elusive 'policy makers'. We present a general taxonomy to help research scientists more effectively support evidence-based policy. We stress the importance of building and maintaining relationships appropriate to the diverse pool of government actors. Not recognising this diversity may lead to miscommunication and reduce the positive impacts of scientific evidence for public policy in crisis and non-crisis situations.},
}

@article {pmid42495546,
year = {2026},
author = {Tsai, TH},
title = {Remdesivir from failed Ebola drug to first FDA-approved COVID-19 antiviral: The medico-legal integration.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {29},
number = {8},
pages = {116867},
pmid = {42495546},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {Remdesivir became the first antiviral for COVID-19 to receive emergency use authorization (EUA) and, subsequently, full FDA approval. This article provides a statutory analysis of its development life cycle, tracing the contributions of nine US federal statutes from foundational coronavirus science through full approval, using a qualitative regulatory-science method that combines doctrinal and document analysis. Each statute is mapped onto a staged life cycle framework. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, under 42 U.S.C. § 282, designed and ran the pivotal the adaptive COVID-19 treatment trial (ACTT-1), generating EUA-supporting evidence in 14 weeks; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority's (BARDA) Other Transaction Authority enabled at-risk manufacturing before the EUA; the Project BioShield Act addressed the market failure of an intravenous, hospital-only antiviral; and the Defense Production Act supported domestic supply. Together, these interdependent statutes show how an integrated legal architecture compressed development into months. Sustaining this institutional infrastructure is the most consequential investment in pandemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid42495643,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Caligaris, M and Tiwary, S and Nicolau, D},
title = {The emerging roles of eosinophils in immune regulation in health and disease.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1652583},
pmid = {42495643},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Eosinophils/immunology ; Animals ; Th2 Cells/immunology ; Cytokines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Eosinophils are evolutionarily conserved granular innate cells that can trace back to 100 million years to the emergence of gnathostomes, which now is involved in regulation of diverse homeostatic conditions and diseases in mammals. They have traditionally been associated with Th2 responses, primarily in eosinophilic allergic asthma and helminth parasitic infections. These Th2 responses are correlated with basic cationic proteins and specific cytokines release from preformed eosinophilic vesicles, associated with tissue damage and remodeling. Consequently, eosinophils have historically been characterized as potent cytotoxic effector cells. In human patients, their high blood count has been linked to clinical concerns and necessary further patient evaluations. However, this reflects only a cursory understanding of eosinophils, as their involvement in a broad and diverse range of disorders has recently emerged. Indeed, eosinophils extend beyond traditionally ascribed Th2 responses, which appear to be both global and pivotal in immune regulation contexts. Its role varies from speculative controlled embryological tissue modeling, to tissue regeneration post-injury, uncontrolled neoplastic development, novel Th2 eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders, reproductive homeostasis and SARS-CoV-2 in a non-exhaustive list of its emerging association with health and disease. This review evaluates the emerging roles of eosinophils which are both pro- and anti-inflammatory, dependent on disease context and microenvironment. Our knowledge of the novel and diverse roles of eosinophils has been applied to the emergence of targeted, and successful clinical therapies to a range of diseases, opening doors to extend assessment on their potential roles in the original embryological modeling and development. Collectively, diverse modern evidence indicates that eosinophils-an ancient evolutionarily conserved cell lineage-has an imperative function in immune networks.},
}

Humans
*Eosinophils/immunology
Animals
Th2 Cells/immunology
Cytokines/immunology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Humans
*Social Media
*Mental Health
*Disasters
*Affect

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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