@article {pmid41944494,
year = {2026},
author = {Gao, T and Liu, J and Du, Y and Yang, J and Sheng, G and Zhou, L and Qiu, Y and Zhang, Q and Duan, M},
title = {Association Between Acute Gastrointestinal Injury and Mortality Risk in Critically Ill Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Clinical and translational gastroenterology},
volume = {17},
number = {6},
pages = {e01028},
doi = {10.14309/ctg.0000000000001028},
pmid = {41944494},
issn = {2155-384X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Critical Illness/mortality ; Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data ; *Gastrointestinal Diseases/mortality/diagnosis ; Hospital Mortality ; Risk Factors ; Risk Assessment ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: To systematically evaluate the association between severe acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI)/gastrointestinal dysfunction score (GIDS) and mortality risk in adult intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. We searched the MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases for articles published between January 2016 and January 2025. Observational cohort studies reporting mortality outcomes in ICU patients with AGI (grades III-IV vs 0-II) or GIDS (scores 2-4 vs 0-1) were included. Studies focusing on specific subpopulations such as patients after cardiac surgery or with COVID-19 were excluded to maintain population homogeneity. The primary outcome was short-term all-cause mortality. Random-effects meta-analysis using inverse-variance weighting was performed using odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS: Eight studies involving 2,786 critically ill patients were included. The pooled analysis demonstrated that severe GI dysfunction (AGI III-IV or GIDS 2-4) was significantly associated with increased mortality risk (OR 2.78, 95% CI 2.19-3.52, I 2 = 42.5%). Subgroup analyses by outcome type (28-day/ICU mortality: OR 2.70, 95% CI 2.04-3.58; in-hospital mortality: OR 4.27, 95% CI 1.63-11.18) and scoring system (AGI: OR 2.75, 95% CI 2.07-3.67; GIDS: OR 3.18, 95% CI 1.43-7.07) showed consistent results. The addition of a large-scale prospective Chinese study (n = 1,102) and a multicenter European cohort (n = 540) strengthened the findings and broadened generalizability.

DISCUSSION: Severe AGI is strongly associated with increased mortality in critically ill patients. Early recognition and assessment of GI dysfunction using standardized grading systems may facilitate risk stratification and guide clinical management.},
}

Humans
*Critical Illness/mortality
Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data
*Gastrointestinal Diseases/mortality/diagnosis
Hospital Mortality
Risk Factors
Risk Assessment
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid42154963,
year = {2026},
author = {Clarke, C and Esposito, D and Urdaneta, V and Mukherjee, P and Buttery, AK},
title = {Safety of COVID-19 mRNA-1273 booster doses in Asian populations: A literature review of post-marketing observational studies.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2662118},
pmid = {42154963},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects/methods ; Product Surveillance, Postmarketing ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Observational Studies as Topic ; *2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Asia/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Asian People ; },
abstract = {Real-world data on the safety of COVID-19 booster doses in Asian populations are needed to inform national immunization programs. The safety profile of mRNA-1273 (Moderna, Inc.) was evaluated using post-marketing observational data. PubMed and EMBASE were searched on June 30, 2025, for studies meeting the following predefined criteria: observational design, adverse events (AEs), mRNA-1273 boosters (dose 3+), and population data from the South-East Asia and Western-Pacific regions. Data on study characteristics, and AE incidence and severity, were extracted. Of 886 records screened, 27 studies from eight countries (Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore) met the inclusion criteria. Across studies, mRNA-1273 boosters were well tolerated, with severe AEs occurring at low frequency. Based on the included observational studies, these findings support the favorable safety profile of mRNA-1273 boosters in Asian populations. Long-term safety monitoring is needed to guide public-health responses to evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects/methods
Product Surveillance, Postmarketing
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Observational Studies as Topic
*2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Asia/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Asian People

@article {pmid42156022,
year = {2026},
author = {Murai, H},
title = {[Imported Infectious Diseases of the Nervous System].},
journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo},
volume = {78},
number = {5},
pages = {432-436},
doi = {10.11477/mf.188160960780050432},
pmid = {42156022},
issn = {1881-6096},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; Rabies/epidemiology/transmission ; Japan/epidemiology ; Dengue/epidemiology/transmission ; Dogs ; },
abstract = {Although sanitary conditions in Japan are generally favorable, pathogens may be introduced by patients who acquire the infections overseas. Dengue fever has a high global incidence, with nearly 200 cases occurring annually in Japan. Most of these infections are acquired in Southeast Asia. As dengue fever is transmitted by mosquitoes, preventive measures against insect bites are important. The incidence of Japanese encephalitis has markedly decreased in Japan owing to widespread vaccination. This disease is mosquito-borne, and only approximately 1% of infected individuals develop symptoms. However, once symptoms appear, the mortality rate is 20-30%. A characteristic clinical feature of this condition is the presence of extrapyramidal symptoms. Rabies is a representative disease transmitted through dog bites. In Japan, its incidence has dramatically declined owing to canine vaccination and the control of stray dogs. Once rabies develops, the fulminant form accounts for 70-80% of cases. Measles is a representative disease that is transmitted between humans. It is highly contagious and requires careful monitoring. During the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic, the number of measles cases decreased. Recently, the trend has reversed, with many patients believed to have been infected in Vietnam.},
}

Humans
Animals
Rabies/epidemiology/transmission
Japan/epidemiology
Dengue/epidemiology/transmission
Dogs

@article {pmid42156048,
year = {2026},
author = {Shimohata, T},
title = {[COVID-19-Associated Encephalitis and Encephalopathy: Current Status].},
journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo},
volume = {78},
number = {5},
pages = {567-572},
doi = {10.11477/mf.188160960780050567},
pmid = {42156048},
issn = {1881-6096},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/complications ; *Brain Diseases/therapy/etiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications/therapy/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; *Pneumonia, Viral/complications/therapy/epidemiology ; *Encephalitis, Viral/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {In recent years, the incidence of COVID-19-associated encephalitis and encephalopathy has decreased due to viral mutations and the acquisition of population immunity. The underlying mechanisms are now thought to involve immune-mediated pathology and cerebral microvascular injury, rather than direct viral invasion. In adults, encephalitis and encephalopathy are independent predictors of disease severity and mortality. In children, acute necrotizing encephalopathy is associated with high mortality rates and long-term neurological sequelae. Regarding treatment, correction of reversible factors and timely immunotherapy are essential, and favorable responses to high-dose corticosteroids and interleukin-6 receptor blockade have been reported.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/complications
*Brain Diseases/therapy/etiology
*Coronavirus Infections/complications/therapy/epidemiology
Pandemics
*Pneumonia, Viral/complications/therapy/epidemiology
*Encephalitis, Viral/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
*Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid42160264,
year = {2026},
author = {Romoff, M and Chandekar, A and Beyer, R and Kim, MS and Baz, S and Mills, ES and Park, DY and Lee, YP and Bhatia, N and Hashmi, S and Wu, HH},
title = {Evaluating Virtual and Hybrid Mentorship in Orthopaedic Surgery: Perceived Benefits, Challenges, and Impacts in the Post-COVID Era.},
journal = {JBJS reviews},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42160264},
issn = {2329-9185},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *Mentors ; *Orthopedics/education ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {» Virtual and hybrid mentorship models have transitioned from temporary coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic responses to durable, scalable components of the orthopaedic training curriculum. » Despite high trainee satisfaction, most orthopaedic virtual mentorship programs rely on short-term, self-reported metrics and lack the objective, longitudinal tracking of research productivity or career advancement seen in other specialties. » While virtual pipelines demonstrate the potential to broaden access for underrepresented groups, inconsistent collection of detailed demographic and socioeconomic data limits the assessment of their true impact on diversity. » Neurosurgery and plastic surgery provide instructive models for virtual collaboratives that successfully use standardized expectations and longitudinal outcome tracking to measure success. » To ensure these programs drive equitable change rather than just broader participation, future orthopaedic virtual mentorship programs should incorporate standardized outcome frameworks, mentor perspectives, and longitudinal, multi-institutional follow-up.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
*Mentors
*Orthopedics/education
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42169206,
year = {2026},
author = {Ropeter, J and Overhageböck, N and Dreier, M and Meyerdierks, D and Imran, A and Heinsohn, T and Steinmann, M and Kuhlmann, A and Jahn, B and Lange, B and Klett-Tammen, CJ and Harries, M},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on diagnosis, and healthcare utilization, among patients with cancer (lung, breast, and pancreas) and cardiovascular diseases (HF, AF, hypertensive, and chronic ischemic heart disease) in Germany: two systematic reviews.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42169206},
issn = {2046-4053},
support = {031L0299H//Bundesministerium für Forschung, Technologie und Raumfahrt/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Germany/epidemiology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data ; *Neoplasms/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic and related non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) (e.g., lockdowns and contact restrictions) disrupted routine healthcare delivery. In Germany, these measures affected diagnostic and treatment services for people with cancer and cardiovascular diseases, potentially delaying diagnosis and adversely influencing outcomes. We assessed whether and to what extent diagnosis, health utilization and health outcome among patients with selected cancer and cardiovascular conditions changed in Germany during the pandemic.

METHODS: We conducted two systematic reviews of studies from Germany on selected cancers (breast, lung and pancreatic) and cardiovascular conditions (atrial fibrillation/flutter, heart failure, hypertensive and chronic ischemic heart disease). Protocols were registered in PROSPERO and the reviews were reported in accordance with PRISMA. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Embase and screened grey literature. Outcomes included changes in new diagnoses, healthcare utilization, treatment, and disease-specific mortality during the pandemic (2020-2023) compared with the pre-pandemic period (2018-2019). Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using an adapted ROBINS-E tool. Owing to heterogeneity, we synthesized findings narratively.

RESULTS: We screened 1991 records for cancer and 4,981 records for cardiovascular diseases, and included 9 cancer studies and 10 cardiovascular studies. For cancer, several studies reported a relative reduction in new breast and lung cancer diagnoses of up to 25% during lockdown periods; hospital admissions decreased by up to 9%. For cardiovascular conditions, hospital admissions for atrial fibrillation/flutter and heart failure decreased by up to 20%, particularly during pandemic peaks. Evidence on treatment delays, changes in treatment, and mortality was limited, and outcomes for other included diagnoses were often not reported.

DISCUSSION: The available evidence indicates substantial reductions in hospital admissions and new diagnoses among patients with cancer and cardiovascular disease in Germany during the pandemic, suggesting major disruptions to care delivery. However, heterogeneity and gaps in the evidence base limit a comprehensive assessment of downstream outcomes. More comprehensive, linked data and further research are needed to quantify the full pandemic's impact and to strengthen health-system resilience for future crises.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Germany/epidemiology
*Cardiovascular Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data
*Neoplasms/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42170790,
year = {2026},
author = {Carretero Rey, M},
title = {[Epidemiological surveillance of Andes virus: have we really learned anything after COVID-19?].},
journal = {Revista espanola de salud publica},
volume = {100},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42170790},
issn = {2173-9110},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; COVID-19 ; Zoonoses/epidemiology ; *Hantavirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Epidemiological Monitoring ; *Orthohantavirus ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; *Betacoronavirus ; Disease Outbreaks ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology ; Spain/epidemiology ; Viral Zoonoses/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Recent Andes virus outbreaks have reignited international debate regarding Public Health preparedness for hantaviruses with documented interpersonal transmission capacity. Unlike other orthohantaviruses, Andes virus has demonstrated person-to-person transmission in specific epidemiological settings, including household and nosocomial environments. The recent emergence of cases linked to multinational outbreaks has prompted renewed assessments and recommendations from international public health organizations. This manuscript presents an epidemiological reflection on current surveillance challenges associated with emerging hantaviruses following the experience gained during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also reviews aspects related to zoonotic surveillance, molecular monitoring, early detection, and integrated One Health approaches applied to preparedness against future emerging threats. Available evidence highlights the need to strengthen multidisciplinary surveillance systems capable of integrating human, environmental, and zoonotic information in order to improve responses to complex epidemiological scenarios associated with emerging hantaviruses.},
}

Humans
Animals
COVID-19
Zoonoses/epidemiology
*Hantavirus Infections/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Epidemiological Monitoring
*Orthohantavirus
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
*Betacoronavirus
Disease Outbreaks
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology
Spain/epidemiology
Viral Zoonoses/epidemiology

@article {pmid42172294,
year = {2026},
author = {Swartwood, NA and Singh, N and Mortazavi, SA and Can, MH and Cui, H and Ryuk, DK and MacPherson, P and Horton, KC and Menzies, NA},
title = {Differences in tuberculosis prevalence by sex in low- and middle-income countries over 1993-2025: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {PLoS medicine},
volume = {23},
number = {5},
pages = {e1005114},
pmid = {42172294},
issn = {1549-1676},
mesh = {Humans ; Prevalence ; Male ; Female ; *Developing Countries/economics ; Sex Factors ; *Tuberculosis/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Global and national initiatives to combat tuberculosis (TB) have expanded over recent years. Despite this, the TB burden remains high in some population groups, with men recognized as having elevated TB risks. Summary measures of sex differences in TB prevalence were last estimated in 2016. Since then, many additional prevalence surveys have been conducted, including in the highest TB burden countries. We conducted a systematic review of sex-stratified TB prevalence survey data published over 1993-2025, to provide updated estimates of male-to-female (M:F) TB prevalence ratios and determine whether sex-related disparities in TB burden have closed over time.

METHODS AND FINDINGS: We identified surveys reporting community-representative, sex-stratified estimates of pulmonary TB prevalence in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including surveys from an earlier review (covering January 1993-March 2016) and a new systematic review (covering 1st December 2015-13th October 2025). This review was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024503853) and included searches of PubMed, Embase, Global Health, the Cochrane Library, Africa Index Medicus, LILACS, and SciELO. We extracted data on bacteriologically confirmed and smear-positive TB prevalence among adults (aged ≥ 15 years), stratified by sex. Risk of bias was evaluated using eight criteria specific to prevalence surveys. We fit multi-level Bayesian regression models with study- and country-level random effects to estimate the M:F ratio of TB prevalence (male prevalence divided by female prevalence), overall and for key subgroups. In meta-regression analyses, we estimated how prevalence ratios varied over time and according to known TB risk factors and TB case definitions. We identified 10,124 publications and extracted data from 100 eligible studies representing 102 unique prevalence surveys and 4,658,310 participants (45.6% male) in 33 LMICs. TB prevalence was higher in men than women in 90/102 of the included surveys, with a pooled M:F prevalence ratio of 2.02 (95% credible interval (CrI): 1.71, 2.34) for bacteriologically confirmed TB and 2.38 (95% CrI: 1.91, 2.90) for smear-positive TB. Time trend analyses showed a 2.0% (95% CrI: -0.2, 4.5%) average annual change in the M:F ratio of bacteriologically confirmed TB over the study period. The M:F prevalence ratio was estimated to be higher for countries with greater excess HIV prevalence among men, and countries with greater gender equity (as measured by the United Nation's Gender Development Index). The estimated M:F prevalence ratio was also higher for surveys that did not restrict testing to individuals reporting TB symptoms. Study limitations include heterogeneity in survey methods and definitions, as well as limited data from the Americas, Eastern Mediterranean, and Europe WHO world regions and post-COVID-19 period.

CONCLUSIONS: Men in LMICs consistently experience TB at a higher prevalence than women. Time trend estimates are uncertain, but consistent with widening sex differences in TB prevalence over the last three decades, despite efforts to address the risk factors underlying this excess TB burden.},
}

Humans
Prevalence
Male
Female
*Developing Countries/economics
Sex Factors
*Tuberculosis/epidemiology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid42173631,
year = {2026},
author = {Vaidya, H and Kumar, M},
title = {AI in multi-omics analysis in viral diseases.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {222},
number = {},
pages = {229-240},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.02.005},
pmid = {42173631},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {*Multiomics ; Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Virus Diseases/genetics/metabolism/virology ; Machine Learning ; Genomics ; Metabolomics ; Proteomics ; },
abstract = {Viral diseases are a serious threat to human health worldwide, and are known to cause long-term health complications as well as epidemics and pandemics. Yet it is difficult to understand how they spread, persist, and damage the body, which requires advanced methods. Multi-omics datasets, including genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, proteomics and metabolomics provide a complete view of virus-host interactions. However, the integration and interpretation of these high dimensional datasets remain a major challenge. To overcome this, artificial Intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) and network-based approaches, has proven to be a powerful tool to analyze, integrate, and interpret multi-omics data. This chapter discusses examples from studies on SARS-CoV-2, HIV, influenza, EBV and others, where AI has been applied to multi-omics research. These studies show how AI-assisted multi-omics approaches are helping in the advancement of viral disease research by providing better understanding of virus induced cellular changes, identifying biomarkers, designing targeted therapies etc. Therefore, integrating multi-omics with AI enables improved diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of viral diseases. We have also discussed challenges faced in combining multi-omics with AI and highlighted future directions that would help in enhancing AI assisted multi-omics research.},
}

*Multiomics
Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Virus Diseases/genetics/metabolism/virology
Machine Learning
Genomics
Metabolomics
Proteomics

@article {pmid42173633,
year = {2026},
author = {Agrawal, P},
title = {AI in multi-omics analysis of COVID-19 patient data.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {222},
number = {},
pages = {261-293},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2026.01.017},
pmid = {42173633},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *Multiomics ; *COVID-19/genetics/virology/metabolism ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Genomics ; Proteomics ; Pandemics ; Metabolomics ; Machine Learning ; Data Analytics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented increase in the volume of biological data generation, demonstrating the importance of developing an integrative and intelligent analytical framework. In the last few years, advancements in the artificial intelligence (AI) approaches have completely transformed the biological research landscape. Researchers have integrated the AI approaches with the multi-omics data generated from the COVID-19 patients to have a systems-level understanding of underlying disease mechanisms, predicting new variants and their spread rate, disease severity, immune response, and therapeutic opportunities. In this chapter, we have explored the utility of AI on multi-omics data. We started with an introduction to different kinds of omics data, such as genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Next, we elaborated on what AI is and discussed its types, which include conventional machine learning methods (supervised and unsupervised), deep learning methods (autoencoders and convolutional neural networks), and network-based methods (graph neural networks, network propagation, and knowledge graphs). Next, we discussed different types of integration methods (early, intermediate, and late) used for integrating AI and multi-omics data. Moving ahead, we mentioned several applications of AI, such as biomarker discovery, host-pathogen interaction, drug repurposing, and predicting long COVID. Lastly, we mentioned several important projects and consortia and discussed several important case studies highlighting the usefulness of integrating AI with multi-omics data for personalized medicine.},
}

Humans
*Multiomics
*COVID-19/genetics/virology/metabolism
*Artificial Intelligence
*SARS-CoV-2
Genomics
Proteomics
Pandemics
Metabolomics
Machine Learning
Data Analytics

@article {pmid42184107,
year = {2026},
author = {Khoo, LY and Dhillon, SK},
title = {Comparative review of artificial intelligence for transcriptomic biomarker discovery in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).},
journal = {Briefings in bioinformatics},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42184107},
issn = {1477-4054},
support = {//Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia/ ; FP019-2022//Fundamental Research Grant Scheme/ ; },
mesh = {*Artificial Intelligence ; *COVID-19/genetics/virology/metabolism ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; *Transcriptome ; Gene Expression Profiling ; },
abstract = {The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the significance of reliable molecular biomarkers in clinical use. Despite the popularity of traditional statistical approaches, the high dimensionality of transcriptomic data presents challenges for these conventional methods. While artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have emerged as highly advantageous for handling these complex datasets, there is a lack of evaluation of these approaches in COVID-19 transcriptomic studies. This review aims to provide an evaluation of these studies employed for transcriptomic biomarker discovery in COVID-19 using AI, assessing their study designs, methodologies, and outcomes. Based on a comprehensive search for literature across five databases including Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE, IEEE Xplore Digital Library, and LitCovid from December 2019 to March 2025, this review selected 63 studies for a narrative synthesis of four key sections: (i) The Landscape of AI-Driven COVID-19 Transcriptomics, (ii) Limitations of Studies, (iii) A Proposed AI-Driven Transcriptomics Framework, and (iv) Clinical Translation Challenges, Opportunities, and Future Directions. Our analysis revealed limitations in data quality, sample size, and heterogeneity, as well as methodologies regarding validation and interpretability. Thus, we proposed an evidence-informed workflow that addresses these current limitations in study design, while acknowledging real-world constraints. We further discuss the emerging potential of agentic AI systems as a promising solution to current limitations. By bridging methodological gaps with translation considerations, this review can enhance pandemic response strategies for future emerging infectious diseases. Key Points Applications observed in reviewed studies mainly included applications in diagnosis and severity stratification of COVID-19 patients. The limitations of current studies included small sample sizes, the reliance on public datasets lacking detailed metadata, batch effects and data heterogeneity reducing model robustness, the lack of external validation, risks of data leakage and circular validation leading to inflated performance metrics, and challenges in model interpretability. An evidence-informed AI-driven framework is proposed, acknowledging real-world constraints including small pandemic cohort sizes, domain shift from viral evolution, and resource-limited settings, with emerging agentic AI systems offering potential solutions.},
}

*Artificial Intelligence
*COVID-19/genetics/virology/metabolism
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
Biomarkers/metabolism
*Transcriptome
Gene Expression Profiling

@article {pmid42185895,
year = {2026},
author = {Petakh, P and Ravlo, E and Pan, Q and Bruzzone, R and Oksenych, V and Vähä-Koskela, M and Kamyshnyi, O and Kainov, DE},
title = {Standardizing antiviral response metrics for mono- and combination therapies in acute, chronic and latent viral infections.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42185895},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Humans ; Drug Therapy, Combination ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy ; Drug Resistance, Viral ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; Microbial Sensitivity Tests/standards ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology ; Animals ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Betacoronavirus/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic showed that heterogeneous antiviral assay designs, endpoints and reporting practices can obscure which candidate drugs and combinations are genuinely promising. As antiviral discovery expands from acute infections to chronic and latent viral diseases, the field needs a compact, reproducible and biologically interpretable set of response metrics. In this Personal View, we argue that EC50 and the selectivity index should be retained for pharmacological interpretation but systematically complemented by drug sensitivity scores (DSS), which integrate potency and efficacy across the tested concentration range, and by ΔDSS, calculated as DSS_antiviral minus DSS_toxicity from matched efficacy and viability curves. We propose standardized modules for resistance passaging, sequencing and host-side-effect profiling so that monotherapies are assessed not only for antiviral potency but also for durability and host-cell perturbation. For combinations, we discuss Bliss, ZIP, HSA and Loewe models as complementary tools for identifying additive or synergistic regimens while accounting for toxicity, resistance suppression and drug-drug interactions. Finally, we outline how harmonized metrics can support organoid, animal and clinical prioritization, improve machine-learning datasets and guide pandemic response, including rapid monotherapy testing for some DNA viruses and early combination testing for RNA and reverse-transcribing viruses.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Humans
Drug Therapy, Combination
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy
Drug Resistance, Viral
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19
Pandemics
Microbial Sensitivity Tests/standards
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology
Animals
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Betacoronavirus/drug effects

@article {pmid42189856,
year = {2026},
author = {Malieuze Nanfah, MD and Binam Nkot, VM and Yop Kite, MM and Beack Bayengue, SS and Tchamba, GB and Tandja, AG and Koloko, BL and Ngo Malabo, ET and Ekwe Priso, JGLF and Embolo Enyegue, EL and Koanga Mogtomo, ML and Kojom Foko, LP},
title = {Burden and clinical impact of 'neglected' transfusion-transmitted infections in Cameroon: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {PLoS neglected tropical diseases},
volume = {20},
number = {5},
pages = {e0014378},
pmid = {42189856},
issn = {1935-2735},
mesh = {Humans ; Cameroon/epidemiology ; *Transfusion Reaction/epidemiology ; Blood Donors ; *Blood-Borne Infections/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Blood Donation ; Blood Banks ; Blood Safety ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Blood supply is a public health challenge in African countries. In Cameroon, blood selection guidelines focus on four viral and bacterial pathogens (HIV, hepatitis B and C viruses, Treponema pallidum) associated with transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs). Other pathogens, often endemic (e.g., Plasmodium spp.), are not routinely screened in blood banks and are not included in blood safety guidelines or surveillance, despite their potential for transfusion transmission.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence, determinants, and clinical impact of 'neglected' pathogens, defined as pathogens not included in national blood safety guidelines (e.g., filaria, dengue virus, Toxoplasma gondii), in blood banks. Additionally, we identified the most urgent challenges and proposed actionable solutions to guide blood safety guidelines in the country.

RESULTS: A total of 18 studies, covering ~12,500 donations, were included, with the bulk coming from donors living in three regions (Littoral, Northwest, Centre). Plasmodium parasite (68.4%) was the major studied pathogen, even though an evident publication bias was found (p = 0.004). The other pathogens included dengue virus (5.3%), T. gondii (5.3%), and HTLV-1 (5.3%). The filarial parasite Loa loa was consistently accidentally found. Even though there is no evidence of SARS-CoV-2-associated TTIs till now, the pooled proportion of this virus was 17.7%. The pooled proportions of infection in blood donors were 16.6% for Plasmodium spp. and 0.5% for Loa loa. There is a paucity of clinical impact studies on these 'neglected' TTIs, and the available literature suggests impaired levels of immunoglobulin E and albumin. We identified urgent challenges, including awareness among healthcare providers and policymakers, diagnostic and logistical constraints, and low microbial density infections, associated with neglected pathogen-related blood safety.

CONCLUSION: We opine that providing more epidemiological evidence is crucial to address the above-mentioned challenges for guiding and guaranteeing blood safety in Cameroon.},
}

Humans
Cameroon/epidemiology
*Transfusion Reaction/epidemiology
Blood Donors
*Blood-Borne Infections/epidemiology
Prevalence
Blood Donation
Blood Banks
Blood Safety

@article {pmid42213322,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahmad, T and Alhammadi, BA and Almaazmi, SY and Arafa, S and Blatch, GL and Dutta, T and Gestwicki, JE and Keyzers, RA and Meskiri, A and Sharafeldin, A and Shonhai, A and Singh, H},
title = {Malaria Public Health Status: Global Context and Update on Gulf Cooperation Council Countries.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1507},
number = {},
pages = {35-53},
pmid = {42213322},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; Antimalarials/therapeutic use ; *Malaria/epidemiology/prevention & control/drug therapy/transmission ; Animals ; *Public Health ; Middle East/epidemiology ; Drug Resistance ; Plasmodium falciparum/drug effects/pathogenicity ; Malaria Vaccines/therapeutic use ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {From 2000 to 2019, the global malaria death toll fell from 864,000 to 576,000 deaths; however, progress on reducing this toll has since slowed, with the COVID-19 pandemic contributing to an increase in the mortality rate since 2020. The emergence of widespread resistance in the major malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) to first-line treatment drugs has highlighted the need for new antimalarials and smarter drug delivery strategies. Nevertheless, recent successes of the first malaria vaccines (RTS,S/AS01 and R21/MM) have renewed the promise of widely applicable vaccines in the future. Since 2015, the Eastern Mediterranean Region has experienced an overall increase in malaria cases and deaths. In the Arabian Peninsula, while most of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries have been declared free of indigenous malaria (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates), malaria is still endemic in two GCC countries (Saudi Arabia and Oman) and their neighbors (Yemen). Furthermore, a number of factors threaten malaria control in this region, especially antimalarial drug resistance, the emergence of highly invasive mosquito species, increasing average temperatures, and imported malaria. In this review, we assess the current worldwide status of malaria before providing a critical evaluation of the malaria situation in the GCC countries.},
}

Humans
Antimalarials/therapeutic use
*Malaria/epidemiology/prevention & control/drug therapy/transmission
Animals
*Public Health
Middle East/epidemiology
Drug Resistance
Plasmodium falciparum/drug effects/pathogenicity
Malaria Vaccines/therapeutic use
Global Health

@article {pmid42215147,
year = {2026},
author = {Petropoulou, D and Karampela, I and Christodoulatos, GS and Kounatidis, D and Vallianou, NG and Dalamaga, M},
title = {Hormonal, metabolic and metabolomic biomarkers in long COVID.},
journal = {Advances in clinical chemistry},
volume = {133},
number = {},
pages = {217-283},
doi = {10.1016/bs.acc.2026.01.002},
pmid = {42215147},
issn = {2162-9471},
mesh = {Humans ; Biomarkers/metabolism/blood ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/metabolism/complications ; *Hormones/metabolism ; Metabolomics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Long COVID (LC), a complex syndrome affecting approximately 6-12 % of individuals post infection, is characterized by persistent, fluctuating, or progressive symptoms lasting at least three months. Its pathogenic mechanisms involve viral persistence, chronic inflammation, immune dysregulation, endothelial dysfunction, and endocrine/metabolic abnormalities. Currently, no specific diagnostic tests exist for LC, highlighting the need for reliable biomarkers. This review synthesizes current evidence on hormonal, metabolic, and metabolite biomarkers in LC. While vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in LC, being associated with neurocognitive symptoms, delayed recovery and poor physical performance, particularly in older adults, its lack of specificity reduces diagnostic utility. Insulin resistance markers consistently correlate with fatigue, mood disturbances, and myalgia, suggesting a distinct metabolic LC phenotype. Lower cortisol frequently correlates with fatigue, sensory disturbances, and neurocognitive symptoms. Alterations in cortisol/adrenocorticotropic hormone, growth hormone, prolactin, and gonadotropins suggest a potential hypothalamic-pituitary axis involvement; however, these abnormalities are often transient, dynamic or nonsignificant. While some patients may exhibit low free triiodothyronine associated with fatigue, no significant incidence of thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity was associated with LC. Despite the absence of a distinct and consistent metabolomic signature, LC is characterized by the activation of the kynurenine pathway, including increased kynurenine and quinolinic acid, being associated with fatigue, neurocognitive and depressive symptoms. Emerging metabolites of mitochondrial dysfunction and lipid metabolism alterations require further validation. Despite promising findings, evidence remains scattered, hindered by small sample sizes and methodological limitations. Future research should prioritize standardization of biomarker assessment, validation in diverse populations, and exploration of targeted therapeutic interventions.},
}

Humans
Biomarkers/metabolism/blood
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/metabolism/complications
*Hormones/metabolism
Metabolomics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42216347,
year = {2026},
author = {Faseeh, A and Rida, M and Karim, NE and Zafar, A and Shah, A and Perveen, A},
title = {Prevalence and long-term outcomes of brain fog and cognitive impairment in individuals with long COVID: A systematic review.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {105},
number = {22},
pages = {e49022},
pmid = {42216347},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/etiology ; Prevalence ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Female ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID is increasingly recognized as a complex multisystem condition, with brain fog and cognitive impairment emerging as some of its manifestations. Despite growing literature, the pooled prevalence, subgroup differences, and underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood.

METHODS: We systematically reviewed 47 studies (2000-2025) encompassing over 25,000 patients to evaluate the prevalence of brain fog and cognitive impairment among long COVID populations. Data were extracted on study design, patient demographics, follow-up duration, and subgroup variables including gender, hospitalization, vaccination, and geographic region. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS v9.0) and JBI checklists. Quantitative synthesis was performed with subgroup and temporal analyses, presented in forest plots and summary figures.

RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of brain fog was 30% (95% CI: 28-32), while cognitive impairment was 25% (95% CI: 23-27). Female patients consistently showed higher rates compared to males (34% vs 23% for brain fog; 29% vs 21% for cognitive impairment). Community-managed patients demonstrated higher prevalence compared to hospitalized cohorts, and unvaccinated individuals had a greater burden than vaccinated ones. Temporal analyses indicated that prevalence increased with longer follow-up, suggesting symptom persistence or late manifestation. Pathophysiological explanations include neuroinflammation, microvascular injury, immune dysregulation, and psychosocial stressors.

CONCLUSION: Brain fog and cognitive impairment are common, persistent, and clinically significant features of long COVID. Gender differences, vaccination status, and follow-up duration influence prevalence. Future studies should focus on mechanisms, preventive strategies, and targeted interventions to mitigate long-term cognitive sequelae.},
}

Humans
*Cognitive Dysfunction/epidemiology/etiology
Prevalence
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Female
Male
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42339932,
year = {2026},
author = {Theodoro, EL and Prediger, KM and Damacena, MA and Silva, CVD and Cano, RDN and Uehara, SCDSA},
title = {Oral manifestations associated with long COVID: a scoping review.},
journal = {Revista brasileira de enfermagem},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {e20250198},
doi = {10.1590/0034-7167-2025-0198},
pmid = {42339932},
issn = {1984-0446},
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Mouth Diseases/etiology/epidemiology ; Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: to map scientific evidence on oral manifestations originating during long COVID.

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

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

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

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/complications
*Mouth Diseases/etiology/epidemiology
Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2
Female

@article {pmid42340118,
year = {2026},
author = {Poder, TG and Camara, MA and Bouchard, PA and Lellouche, F},
title = {Pricing Policy for Medical Oxygen and Potential Savings.},
journal = {Journal of evaluation in clinical practice},
volume = {32},
number = {4},
pages = {e70510},
doi = {10.1111/jep.70510},
pmid = {42340118},
issn = {1365-2753},
mesh = {Humans ; Quebec ; *Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/economics ; *Cost Savings ; *Oxygen/economics/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Costs and Cost Analysis ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Medical oxygen is essential in modern medicine.

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

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

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

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

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

Humans
Quebec
*Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/economics
*Cost Savings
*Oxygen/economics/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Costs and Cost Analysis

@article {pmid42340456,
year = {2026},
author = {Tahmtan, A and Nissapatorn, V and Saravanabhavan, SS and Taherkhani, S and Aghcheli, B},
title = {Viral Infections and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Reinterpreting the Crosstalk Through a Dual-Role Lens.},
journal = {Current microbiology},
volume = {83},
number = {8},
pages = {},
pmid = {42340456},
issn = {1432-0991},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neurodegenerative Diseases/virology/therapy ; Genetic Vectors/genetics ; *Virus Diseases/complications/virology/therapy ; Genetic Therapy/methods ; Animals ; Gene Therapy Agents ; },
abstract = {Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are multifactorial disorders with increasing evidence implicating viral infections in their pathogenesis. However, current reviews often catalog virus-disease associations without integrating this evidence into a unified conceptual model that also accounts for the therapeutic potential of viral platforms. This review investigates recent literature to propose a "dual-role" model for viruses in NDDs. We analyze how diverse viruses (e.g., HSV-1, HIV, EBV, and SARS-CoV-2) converge on shared pathogenic pathways, including protein misfolding, chronic neuroinflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, across different NDDs. Paradoxically, engineered viral vectors derived from neurotropic viruses are being investigated as tools for targeted gene therapy. To address these therapeutic applications of viruses, this review also provides an in-depth report of the various viral vector technologies developed. The approaches involved in designing rationally engineered viral vectors based on various adeno-associated virus serotypes through rational design, directed evolution and machine learning strategies, as well as the lentiviral and herpes simplex virus-based platform are described. Different strategies that have been used to incorporate large and/or small payloads such as gene replacement, RNA interference, microRNA cassettes, CRISPR-based gene editing (base editing, prime editing, CRISPRa and CRISPRi) and the double AAV systems to deliver larger transgene cassette have also been reviewed. This review further includes various routes of administration including intrathecal, intracerebroventricular and convection-enhanced delivery with the use of Focused Ultrasound. The constraints imposed by the Blood-Brain Barrier are discussed, especially the approach using receptor-mediated transcytosis for crossing. The review also critically evaluates obstacles toward clinical translation of viral vectors due to various factors including immunogenicity, the presence of pre-existing neutralising antibodies and dose-dependent toxicity, illustrated by the fatal outcome of ASPIRO and DMD trials. Finally, this review concludes with other promising non-viral approaches such as lipid nanoparticle and extracellular vesicles. Future research needs include long-term studies to investigate causality and extensive safety optimization of viral vectors.},
}

Humans
*Neurodegenerative Diseases/virology/therapy
Genetic Vectors/genetics
*Virus Diseases/complications/virology/therapy
Genetic Therapy/methods
Animals
Gene Therapy Agents

@article {pmid42340792,
year = {2026},
author = {Elgazzar, YA and Abdelrazek, M and Ghozzy, OAM and Mashhour, K and Elhady, MA and Amro, OAEA and Mokhtar, HM and Abdellatif, KAK and Mohamed, MM and Alsharif, MB and Mawkili, H and Hendi, AM and Dhayihi, TM and Adawy, Z and Ali, RF},
title = {CT-Assessed Sarcopenia Combined with Laboratory Inflammatory Markers for Outcome Prediction in Critically Ill, Pulmonary, and Geriatric Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {La Clinica terapeutica},
volume = {177},
number = {4},
pages = {903-915},
doi = {10.7417/CT.2026.2085},
pmid = {42340792},
issn = {1972-6007},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sarcopenia/diagnostic imaging/blood/mortality ; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; *Critical Illness ; Biomarkers/blood ; Prognosis ; Aged ; C-Reactive Protein/analysis ; *Lung Diseases/blood/complications/mortality ; Length of Stay ; Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data ; Predictive Value of Tests ; *Inflammation/blood ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia, assessed via computed tomography (CT), is an emerging prognostic tool in critically ill, pulmonary, and geriatric patients. Laboratory inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) are routinely obtained in these populations. Whether CT-assessed sarcopenia combined with laboratory markers offers superior prognostic accuracy over either measure alone remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES: To systematically evaluate the prognostic value of CT-assessed sarcopenia, alone or combined with laboratory inflammatory/nutritional markers, for predicting mortality, mechanical ventilation duration, and ICU length of stay in critically ill, pulmonary, and geriatric patients.

METHODS: MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to December 2024. Observational studies (prospective or retrospective cohorts, case-control) that reported CT-based sarcopenia assessment alongside at least one laboratory inflammatory marker and at least one clinical outcome were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Random-effects meta-analysis was performed; heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic.

RESULTS: Twenty-five studies encompassing 12,347 patients were identified. The pooled odds ratio for mortality in sarcopenic versus non-sarcopenic patients was 2.28 (95% CI: 1.83-2.83; I² = 22.1%) across critically ill ICU cohorts. In COVID-19 pulmonary populations, pooled OR for in-hospital mortality with low skeletal muscle mass was 5.84 (95% CI: 1.07-31.83). CT-derived muscle measurements correlated inversely with CRP (r = -0.315), fibrinogen (r = -0.392), D-dimers (r = -0.363), and WBC count (r = -0.287). Combined CT-sarcopenia and inflammatory marker models outperformed conventional scoring systems (APACHE II, SOFA, CURB-65, PSI).

CONCLUSIONS: CT-assessed sarcopenia, when integrated with laboratory inflammatory markers, provides a robust, mechanistically grounded, and clinically accessible multimodal prognostic framework across critically ill, pulmonary, and geriatric populations.},
}

Humans
*Sarcopenia/diagnostic imaging/blood/mortality
*Tomography, X-Ray Computed
*Critical Illness
Biomarkers/blood
Prognosis
Aged
C-Reactive Protein/analysis
*Lung Diseases/blood/complications/mortality
Length of Stay
Respiration, Artificial/statistics & numerical data
Predictive Value of Tests
*Inflammation/blood

@article {pmid42342266,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, J and Kathiresan, T and Siddiqui, A and Mazzone, SB and Vogel, A},
title = {Cough biomarkers for diagnosis and monitoring of respiratory disease: a systematic review.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {35},
number = {180},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1183/16000617.0288-2025},
pmid = {42342266},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cough/diagnosis/physiopathology/etiology ; Biomarkers ; Predictive Value of Tests ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology ; *Acoustics ; Prognosis ; },
abstract = {Cough is a common and physiologically informative component of respiratory morbidity, but its potential for diagnosing and monitoring disease is not thoroughly investigated. This systematic review synthesised the literature on algorithmic and statistical models analysing cough acoustics for diagnosing or monitoring respiratory conditions. Following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, five databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and CENTRAL) were systematically searched for studies published from January 2010 to June 2025. Eligible studies performed quantitative acoustic feature analysis of human coughs using statistical, machine learning or deep learning models and reported diagnostic or prognostic performance. 89 studies from 34 countries were assessed, covering cough detection (n=31), disease classification (n=55) and disease severity prediction (n=3), reflecting potential applications in disease monitoring. Deep learning approaches, especially convolutional and recurrent networks, were predominant (n=56) and tended to achieve the higher accuracies, although machine learning ensemble methods and logistic regression also demonstrated strong performance, particularly with well-engineered features. Across different diseases, sensitivities and specificities were often reported to be ≥90%, notably for tuberculosis, asthma and COVID-19. However, methodological weaknesses were common, with only 11.2% of studies introducing external validation, 71.1-87.6% demonstrating high risk of bias (according to PROBAST-AI) and most based on small, homogeneous or crowdsourced cohorts with limited generalisability. These limitations contribute to inflated internal performance and uncertainty about real-world applicability. Cough acoustic biomarkers hold promise as an adjunctive tool for screening and longitudinal monitoring in low-resource environments. Nevertheless, widespread implementation will require large, multicentre validation, standardised calibration, bias control and incorporation into privacy-preserving workflows.},
}

Humans
*Cough/diagnosis/physiopathology/etiology
Biomarkers
Predictive Value of Tests
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/diagnosis/physiopathology
*Acoustics
Prognosis

@article {pmid42342297,
year = {2026},
author = {Yasam, SK and Vignesh, N and Rajagopal, S},
title = {Advances in ferroptosis research and applications.},
journal = {International review of cell and molecular biology},
volume = {405},
number = {},
pages = {149-186},
doi = {10.1016/bs.ircmb.2025.12.004},
pmid = {42342297},
issn = {1937-6448},
mesh = {*Ferroptosis/drug effects/physiology ; Humans ; Animals ; COVID-19/metabolism/pathology/virology ; Iron/metabolism ; Lipid Peroxidation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Neoplasms/pathology/metabolism ; Neurodegenerative Diseases/pathology/metabolism ; Pulmonary Fibrosis/pathology/metabolism ; Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/metabolism/pathology ; },
abstract = {Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death driven by lipid peroxidation and redox imbalance. It has emerged as a pivotal mechanism implicated in various diseases, including cancer, chronic kidney diseases (CKD), neurodegenerative disorders, pulmonary fibrosis, chronic wounds, and viral infections such as COVID-19. This chapter presents a comprehensive overview of the molecular underpinnings of ferroptosis, emphasizing its key regulators-iron metabolism, lipid peroxidation pathways, and antioxidant defenses such as GPX4 and system Xc[-]. We explore recent advances highlighting the therapeutic potential of ferroptosis modulation across multiple pathological contexts. In cancer, ferroptosis inducers have shown efficacy in overcoming drug resistance and enhancing immunotherapy. In contrast, inhibition of ferroptosis offers protective effects in neurodegenerative diseases, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and chronic inflammatory conditions. Applications in nanomedicine have further enabled targeted delivery of ferroptosis modulators, expanding their clinical relevance. The chapter also discusses emerging roles of ferroptosis in wound healing, CKD and pulmonary fibrosis, with particular attention to COVID-19-related lung injury. Finally, we evaluate current therapeutic strategies, safety considerations, and potential clinical applications, along with future directions including biomarker development and personalized medicine. Our aim is to provide a unified perspective on ferroptosis as a disease-modifying mechanism and to highlight its growing importance as a therapeutic target across diverse clinical disciplines.},
}

*Ferroptosis/drug effects/physiology
Humans
Animals
COVID-19/metabolism/pathology/virology
Iron/metabolism
Lipid Peroxidation
SARS-CoV-2
Neoplasms/pathology/metabolism
Neurodegenerative Diseases/pathology/metabolism
Pulmonary Fibrosis/pathology/metabolism
Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/metabolism/pathology

@article {pmid42342836,
year = {2026},
author = {Schuele, L and Nzoyikorera, N and Udahemuka, JC and Cassidy, H and Murhula Masirika, L and Nieuwenhuijse, DF and Nduwimana, C and Molenkamp, R and Nyandwi, J and Boter, M and Minega Ndoli, J and Zaeck, LM and Musabyimana, JP and de Vries, RD and Mbiribindi, JB and Siangoli, FB and Otani, S and Aarestrup, FM and Koopmans, M and Ndishimye, P and Oude Munnink, BB},
title = {Capacity building for genomic surveillance of mpox and other emerging diseases in resource-limited settings within the African Great Lakes region.},
journal = {Communications medicine},
volume = {6},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42342836},
issn = {2730-664X},
abstract = {Genomic surveillance has become an indispensable tool for the identification of pathogens and tracking of transmission chains. Building upon the global sequencing and surveillance infrastructure developed and expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, these capacities are now being adapted to track other pathogens in low- and middle-income countries which remain disproportionately affected by infectious diseases. This is evident in the recent and unprecedented spread of mpox virus in regions experiencing multiple concurrent infectious disease outbreaks, highlighting the need for broad, adaptable diagnostic detection and sequencing capacity. In this Perspective, we describe the applications, insights, and challenges encountered during ongoing capacity building efforts for the characterization of the mpox outbreak and other emerging pathogens in the African Great Lakes Region.},
}

@article {pmid42342874,
year = {2026},
author = {Locci, M and Pardi, N},
title = {Immunological mechanisms of mRNA vaccines for infectious diseases.},
journal = {Nature},
volume = {654},
number = {8120},
pages = {892-901},
pmid = {42342874},
issn = {1476-4687},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Communicable Diseases/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/chemistry/genetics ; Adaptive Immunity ; Immunity, Innate ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Adjuvants, Immunologic ; Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Nucleoside-modified mRNA-lipid-nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP) vaccines confer a high level of protection against severe COVID-19 and, since their first authorization for human use in 2020, have saved millions of lives. The efficacy of this vaccine platform relies on the induction of powerful and coordinated innate and adaptive immune responses. A deep understanding of the mechanisms of action by which mRNA-LNP vaccines drive protective immunity is crucial for advancing the development of next-generation mRNA vaccines with improved immunogenicity and tolerability. A flurry of recent studies has shed light on aspects of this vaccine modality's modus operandi. Nonetheless, key gaps in knowledge remain, including understanding how LNPs are sensed by the immune system and exert their adjuvant activity, identifying the specific signals and cellular pathways critical for eliciting protective immune responses and determining whether it is feasible to uncouple vaccine immunogenicity and reactogenicity. Here we review the known and unknown features of the immunological mechanisms of mRNA-LNP vaccines for infectious diseases. Furthermore, we discuss how the components of this vaccine platform can be modified to fine-tune immune responses against challenging pathogens for which effective vaccines do not exist or need improvement.},
}

Humans
Animals
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Communicable Diseases/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/chemistry/genetics
Adaptive Immunity
Immunity, Innate
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Nanoparticles/chemistry
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Adjuvants, Immunologic
Immunogenicity, Vaccine
Liposomes

@article {pmid41756780,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferriero, AM and Di Lella, R and Farroni, C and Aiello, A and Giarratano, A and Todaro, M and Bocci, MG and Nicastri, E and Goletti, D},
title = {Host-pathogen interaction in community-acquired pneumonia: a focus on the immune response.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1731074},
pmid = {41756780},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *Community-Acquired Pneumonia/immunology/microbiology/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology ; Adaptive Immunity ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Bacterial/immunology/microbiology ; Streptococcus pneumoniae/pathogenicity/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Community-Acquired Infections/immunology ; },
abstract = {Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting individuals of all ages. Various pathogens can cause this condition, and growing antibiotic resistance makes treatment more difficult while raising the risk of severe outcomes. Despite substantial advances in diagnostics, antimicrobial therapy, and supportive care, CAP continues to represent a significant clinical and public health challenge. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of CAP, summarizing key aspects of its epidemiology, pathogen frequency, and recent progress in diagnostic tools and biomarkers. We also describe the innate and adaptive immune responses involved in CAP, with a particular focus on pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, respiratory syncytial virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, and Influenza A and B viruses. A deeper understanding of CAP immunopathogenesis may support the development of improved diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for pneumonia management.},
}

Humans
*Community-Acquired Pneumonia/immunology/microbiology/epidemiology/diagnosis/virology
Adaptive Immunity
*Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
Immunity, Innate
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Bacterial/immunology/microbiology
Streptococcus pneumoniae/pathogenicity/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
*Community-Acquired Infections/immunology

@article {pmid41757222,
year = {2026},
author = {Ravinetto, R and Bottieau, E and Fusco, D and Marrone, R and Van Den Broucke, S and Tarrafeta-Sayas, MB and Rinaldi, L and Losada-Galván, I and Calleri, G and Albonico, M},
title = {Inequitable access to medicines for neglected tropical diseases in Europe: health system vulnerabilities and a call for coordinated action.},
journal = {The Lancet regional health. Europe},
volume = {63},
number = {},
pages = {101616},
pmid = {41757222},
issn = {2666-7762},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the vulnerability of the European medicine supply systems, but the lack of access to medicines for diseases of poverty, including neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), is unfrequently brought to the attention of the European policy makers. As a result, clinicians in Europe are forced to "bricolage solutions" to treat NTDs: ad hoc donations from companies, product-specific donations via the World Health Organization (WHO) or WHO collaborating centres, case-by-case importation -sometimes from poorly regulated countries-, and possibly the recourse to compounding pharmacies. Noteworthy, NTDs are unlikely to decrease in the next years in Europe, due to increasing global mobility, and climate change expanding the parasites' habitat. This serious but neglected problem was discussed at the 2025 European Congress in Tropical Medicine and International Health (ECTMIH) in Hamburg, Germany. This viewpoint analyses the availability, affordability and accessibility challenges in some countries in Europe, and their consequences at patient and health system level. It also proposes a set of interconnected recommendations and policy measures to make quality-assured medicines for NTDs sustainably available and affordable across Europe. Restoring access to these essential and sometimes life-saving medicines is critical for restoring the right to health for all in Europe, while protecting continental public health.},
}

@article {pmid41758633,
year = {2026},
author = {Marefat, M and Tran, D and Watson, RM and Abdulghani, H and Fortino, M},
title = {A practical model for integrated temporomandibular disorder assessment in the routine oral examination.},
journal = {General dentistry},
volume = {74},
number = {2},
pages = {57-61},
pmid = {41758633},
issn = {0363-6771},
mesh = {Humans ; *Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/diagnosis ; Facial Pain/diagnosis/etiology ; Physical Examination ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 era has seen an increase in orofacial pain related to temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The increased relevance and awareness of these conditions, including the enactment of accreditation standards dictating the inclusion of TMD education in dental school curricula, highlights the need for a simplified TMD screening and evaluation model. A literature review was conducted to establish whether a widely accepted, comprehensive, and clinically practical approach to screening and evaluation for TMDs during routine oral examination was available. Previous studies and available medical and dental history forms were reviewed. While medical and dental history forms currently available to practitioners contain TMD-related questions, they are presented in a nonsequential, sporadic manner that may not lead to intuitive diagnosis from the dental practitioner. This article introduces a proposed model and questionnaire for incorporating TMD examinations into routine examinations. The inclusion of a more practical TMD screening and evaluation model in routine examination is intended to facilitate the dentist's identification and assessment of TMD signs and symptoms, leading to a more targeted approach in diagnosis and referral. This proposed model has not yet been validated clinically; the next steps include further development, implementation within a clinical setting, and evaluation of its effectiveness.},
}

Humans
*Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/diagnosis
Facial Pain/diagnosis/etiology
Physical Examination

@article {pmid41758637,
year = {2026},
author = {Kozdrowicki, M and Szczepaniak, P and Kyslyi, V and Carnevale, L and Carnevale, D and Lembo, G and Guzik, TJ and Mikołajczyk, TP},
title = {The impact of inflammation, neuromodulation, and gut microbiota on developing cardiac fibrosis and hypertension.},
journal = {Cardiovascular research},
volume = {122},
number = {6},
pages = {681-706},
pmid = {41758637},
issn = {1755-3245},
support = {ERA-CVD/NEMO/7/2019//Polish National Centre for Research and Development/ ; ERA-CVD/Gut-brain/8/2021//Polish National Centre for Research and Development/ ; ERA-CVD/JTC2020/25/ImmuneHyper/Cog/2022//Polish National Centre for Research and Development/ ; //Ministry of Health/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Hypertension/physiopathology/metabolism/immunology/microbiology/therapy ; Animals ; Fibrosis ; *Myocardium/pathology/metabolism/immunology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Inflammation Mediators/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; *Blood Pressure ; *Inflammation/physiopathology/metabolism ; *Heart Failure/physiopathology/pathology/metabolism ; Epigenesis, Genetic ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of premature mortality worldwide. Due to pressure overload and cardiac fibrosis, CVD often begin with hypertension and gradually progress to heart failure. Cardiac fibrosis reduces the number of functional cardiomyocytes and the force of contraction while increasing oxygen demand. It has been noted that myofibroblasts, which produce excessive amounts of extracellular matrix in the failing heart, express specific proteins such as periostin, tenascin C, thrombospondin, and osteopontin. Their activation involves immune cells that have a well-documented effect on the pathogenesis of hypertension. Moreover, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and sympathetic hyperactivity heightens peripheral inflammation and fosters fibrosis. In this review, we outline and summarize the most significant and recent findings concerning the molecular pathways of immune activation, neuromodulation, epigenetic modifications, and the impact of gut microbiota on myofibroblast activation and fibrosis in the heart, as well as potential therapeutic options (e.g. experimental anti-inflammatory treatments, epigenetic modulators, and vagus nerve stimulation). We will also highlight how current heart failure treatments, including renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAA) inhibitors, β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) antagonists, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and the Mediterranean diet, affect these processes at a molecular level. A comprehensive understanding of the neuroimmune mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of heart failure and hypertension is particularly crucial in light of the increased risk of CVD following the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted from the 'cytokine storm' during SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Humans
*Hypertension/physiopathology/metabolism/immunology/microbiology/therapy
Animals
Fibrosis
*Myocardium/pathology/metabolism/immunology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Inflammation Mediators/metabolism
Signal Transduction
*Blood Pressure
*Inflammation/physiopathology/metabolism
*Heart Failure/physiopathology/pathology/metabolism
Epigenesis, Genetic

@article {pmid41758742,
year = {2026},
author = {Al-Talhi, AA and AlRajhi, B and Almalki, AHS and Alqazenli, M and AlGhamdi, MA and Munhish, FA and Sumaily, I},
title = {Effectiveness of Intranasal Insulin for the Treatment of Olfactory Dysfunction: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {ORL; journal for oto-rhino-laryngology and its related specialties},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1159/000550990},
pmid = {41758742},
issn = {1423-0275},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of intranasal insulin (INI) for the treatment of olfactory dysfunction (OD) in patients with anosmia and/or hyposmia compared to placebo or no treatment.

METHODS: We searched four databases: Medline, Scopus, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), and Springer Nature. The study protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) (ID: CRD42023456891). The protocol design was in accordance with the PRISMA. Participants with hyposmia or anosmia aged ≥18 years were included. Patients with an altered sense of smell due to anatomical malformations, trauma, neurodegenerative diseases, surgery, or intranasal lesions were excluded from the study.

RESULTS: Five studies with 131 participants were included. There were 131 participants, of whom 63 were men and 68 were women. The participants' ages ranged from 16 to 56 years. Almost all studies used a dose of 40 IU, except one that used different doses for different participants. Glycemic assessment was performed in three studies, which showed a very slight decrease in glucose, except in one study in which the drop in glucose reached 10.4 mg/dL. All studies agreed that olfactory function improved after INI administration.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review concluded that INI can be an effective treatment option for patients with OD. However, further well-designed clinical trials are required to establish robust clinical recommendations.},
}

@article {pmid41759027,
year = {2026},
author = {Hussein, R and Shafiai, N and Fakrurrozi, A and Sabbagh, J},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on dental practice and care: Adapting to unprecedented times.},
journal = {Wiadomosci lekarskie (Warsaw, Poland : 1960)},
volume = {79},
number = {1},
pages = {223-231},
doi = {10.36740/WLek/216768},
pmid = {41759027},
issn = {0043-5147},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; *Dental Care ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Dentist-Patient Relations ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Aim: This review aims to shed light on the ways dental practices and patient care strategies have evolved in response to the pandemic. It also investigates how patients' perspectives and dentist-patient dynamics have shifted, highlighting lessons for the future of dental healthcare systems.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of previously published research articles and clinical reports on how dental practitioners adapted their practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes qualitative and quantitative data reflecting both professional and patient experiences. The pandemic led to the rapid adoption of new technologies, heightened hygiene protocols, and increased mental health burdens on both patients and practitioners. Tele-dentistry, limited in-person visits, and stricter sterilization practices became the norm. Patients expressed both fear and appreciation for enhanced safety, altering their expectations of dental care, resilience and adaptability in dental settings.

CONCLUSION: Conclusions The lessons learned from COVID-19 experience underline the importance of incorporating dentistry into broader public health strategies. Moving forward, there is a need to invest in innovative technologies, uphold rigorous hygiene standards, and provide mental workers and patients. These steps are essential to prepare for future health emergencies and ensure the sustainability of dental care delivery.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Pandemics
*Dental Care
SARS-CoV-2
Dentist-Patient Relations
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
Telemedicine

@article {pmid41759616,
year = {2026},
author = {Girndt, M},
title = {Vaccinations to Prevent Infections in Adult Individuals With CKD and After Kidney Transplantation: A Review.},
journal = {American journal of kidney diseases : the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation},
volume = {87},
number = {6},
pages = {841-851},
doi = {10.1053/j.ajkd.2025.10.021},
pmid = {41759616},
issn = {1523-6838},
mesh = {Humans ; *Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects ; *Vaccination/methods ; *Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/immunology/surgery/complications/therapy ; Adult ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; Immunosuppressive Agents ; Influenza Vaccines ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), especially those undergoing dialysis, are at high risk of infections that lead to hospitalizations, morbidity, and mortality. Influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, and respiratory syncytial virus infections account for a significant proportion of typical infectious complications and are preventable by vaccination. The immune system is weakened in CKD, reducing vaccination efficacy. Additionally, some patients with CKD receive immunosuppressive medications. The reduced seroreactivity to various vaccines must be considered when selecting vaccines, vaccine doses, and schedules for patients with CKD. Vaccinations are generally safe in CKD and should be widely used in accordance with public health recommendations to reduce morbidity. Immunosuppression after kidney transplant further impairs vaccination responses. Nevertheless, vaccinations can still be effective and provide protection in a relevant number of patients. Patients who have received transplants should generally not receive live vaccines because of the risk of vaccine-induced complications. Vaccination is usually recommended 6 months after transplant, when immunosuppression is less intense than in the early months. This approach may conflict with seasonal vaccinations, which are often omitted. Data show that at least the influenza vaccination can be administered as early as 4 weeks after transplant without additional risk. In all patients with CKD or posttransplant status, omitting recommended vaccinations is a missed opportunity to prevent relevant infectious complications.},
}

Humans
*Kidney Transplantation/adverse effects
*Vaccination/methods
*Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/immunology/surgery/complications/therapy
Adult
Influenza, Human/prevention & control
Immunosuppressive Agents
Influenza Vaccines
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control

@article {pmid41760558,
year = {2026},
author = {Laudani, C and Bujak, K and Occhipinti, G and Rinaldi, R and Imbesi, A and Sanchez, JS and Galli, M and Abbate, A and Ortega-Paz, L and Capodanno, D and Angiolillo, DJ},
title = {Safety and Efficacy of Colchicine across the Spectrum of Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 20 Randomized Trials.},
journal = {Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics},
volume = {119},
number = {6},
pages = {1431-1439},
doi = {10.1002/cpt.70246},
pmid = {41760558},
issn = {1532-6535},
mesh = {Humans ; *Colchicine/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Coronary Artery Disease/drug therapy/mortality/diagnosis ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {Recent evidence questioned the overall safety and efficacy of colchicine in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), as novel evidence focusing on acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) gave neutral results, while trials focusing on chronic coronary syndrome supported colchicine administration to improve long-term outcomes. However, no study has ever explored whether there is a true therapeutic difference across the populations or these discrepancies are due to additional confounders. Against this background, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials of colchicine in patients with CAD. The primary endpoints were trial-defined major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and serious adverse events (SAEs). Secondary endpoints included all-cause death, measures of ischemia (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction [MI], any revascularization, stroke) and measures of safety (serious infections or sepsis and gastrointestinal adverse events). All analyses included an interaction term for the clinical presentation. Sensitivity analyses were performed to explore sources of heterogeneity. After literature search, 20 trials encompassing a total of 21,486 patients (65.4% ACS) were included. Colchicine significantly reduced MACE (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 0.70; 95% CI 0.55-0.87) without increasing risk for SAEs. Colchicine also reduced MI (IRR 0.81; 95% CI 0.70-0.94) and any revascularization (IRR 0.71; 95% CI 0.51-0.99), while increasing the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events (IRR 1.68; 95% CI 1.23-2.28). No statistically significant interaction was noted for clinical presentation for any endpoint, but a significant interaction for the drug dosage administered and the relationship with the COVID-19 pandemic was noted. In conclusion, the use of colchicine in patients with CAD reduces MACE without significantly increasing SAEs compared to control, although increasing gastrointestinal adverse events, without interaction by clinical presentation.},
}

Humans
*Colchicine/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Coronary Artery Disease/drug therapy/mortality/diagnosis
Treatment Outcome

@article {pmid41761197,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, E and Wang, M and Berdugo, J and Towheed, S and Yang, J and Moosavi, I and Lalji-Mawji, S and Czapla, CS and Ostermeyer, BK and Olagunju, AT},
title = {Mental health issues and associated factors amongst healthcare workers in US forensic-correctional settings: a systematic review of literature since the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41761197},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; United States/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Mental Health ; Risk Factors ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Frontline Workers ; Working Conditions ; Pandemics ; *Prisons ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Healthcare professionals provide essential services to populations in the criminal justice system, often at the expense of their own well-being. This review synthesized literature findings on mental health challenges faced by healthcare professionals working in the US forensic-correctional settings since the COVID-19 pandemic. We investigated the prevalence of mental health conditions, their risk-protective factors, the impacts of these mental health issues on workplace retention, and highlighted relevant recommendations.

METHODS: This study followed PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive search of major databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Embase) was conducted and supplemented with citation chaining to identify eligible reports spanning January 1st 2020 up to March 18th, 2025. Article screening, full-text review, and data extraction were completed by two independent investigators. Study quality was assessed using the NIH tool for quantitative studies and the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) framework for qualitative studies.

RESULTS: A total of 10,005 identified reports were screened, with seven fair-to-good eligible studies included in the final review. Both quantitative (n = 4) and qualitative (n = 3) studies were included, and spanned multiple states, with most studies (n = 3, 42.9%) conducted in California. Healthcare workers reported various mental health conditions such as depression (48%), anxiety (18.8-51.1%), sleep disorders (17.4%), burnout (47.2%) and PTSD (49.3%), albeit significant heterogeneity constrains comparative analysis. Qualitatively, workers experienced considerable isolation, personality shifts, and cognitive dissonance. Risk factors predictive of mental health conditions included increased workload (β = 0.18, p < 0.001), workplace conflict (β = 0.15, p < 0.001), female sex (β = 0.10, p = 0.04), younger age, chronic medical conditions (β = 0.09, p = 0.03), fears around COVID-19 (β = 0.14, p < 0.001), and a lack of pandemic safety training (p = 0.033). Protective factors included resilience, administrator and peer support, access to needed resources, and a sense of fulfilment and purpose from working with populations in forensic-correctional settings.

CONCLUSIONS: Systemic reforms including decreased mandatory overtime, staffing, workload distribution, organizational support, training, improved communication, access to adequate resources and psychosocial interventions may help promote wellness and optimize the ability of healthcare workers to provide care in forensic-correctional settings. However, the preliminary nature of the study findings suggests caution in their interpretations. Further high-quality research is needed to support evidence-informed decision-making and translation.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
United States/epidemiology
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Mental Health
Risk Factors
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Frontline Workers
Working Conditions
Pandemics
*Prisons
Female

@article {pmid41761653,
year = {2026},
author = {Gavor, E and Choong, YK and Singh, S and Sivaraman, H and Yin, ES and Sivaraman, J},
title = {Structural Basis of MERS-CoV Receptor Interactions and Antibody Neutralisations.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70113},
pmid = {41761653},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {//J.S. acknowledges partial support from Ministry of Education, Singapore grants R154-000-A72114, R-154-000-B03-112, and R-154-000-697-112./ ; },
mesh = {*Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology/genetics/chemistry ; Humans ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/immunology/prevention & control ; Animals ; *Receptors, Virus/chemistry/metabolism/immunology ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Increasing outbreaks of coronaviruses underscore the importance of antivirals and vaccines that can combat a wide range of coronaviruses. Neutralising antibodies (nAbs), along with vaccines and small-molecule drugs, are among the most promising treatments and prevention options against coronaviruses. Here, we focus on Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and discuss receptor usage and current progress in antibody research against MERS-CoV infections. First detected in Saudi Arabia and Jordan in 2012, MERS-CoV is a lethal zoonotic pathogen. MERS-CoV infections have been reported by 27 countries between April 2012 till now, with 953 deaths (∼35% mortality) (5 new infections and 4 fatalities reported as of 1 October 2024). WHO identified MERS-CoV as a high-threat pathogen due to its severity, high mortality rate, and potential for epidemic or pandemic spread with recent outbreaks and deaths raising more concerns amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. As of now, there is no antiviral drugs or vaccine against MERS-CoV available. Here we provide a perspective on receptor usage, the risk of MERS-CoV and other CoVs evolution on future pandemics, and the mechanisms of MERS-CoV-derived nAbs. We offer insight into how these antibodies cross-react and cross-neutralise by analysing available structures of spike glycoprotein-antibody complexes. This review provides an update and a basis for the development of antibodies and vaccines for MERS-CoV, and possibly for the designing of next-generation pan-coronavirus vaccines and antivirals.},
}

*Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/immunology/genetics/chemistry
Humans
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/immunology/prevention & control
Animals
*Receptors, Virus/chemistry/metabolism/immunology
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/chemistry/genetics/metabolism

@article {pmid41761906,
year = {2026},
author = {Morand-Grondin, D and Berthod, J and Sigouin, J and Beaulieu-Bonneau, S and Kairy, D},
title = {Paving the road for more ethical and equitable policies and practices in telerehabilitation in psychology and neuropsychology: A rapid review.},
journal = {Health informatics journal},
volume = {32},
number = {1},
pages = {14604582261431026},
doi = {10.1177/14604582261431026},
pmid = {41761906},
issn = {1741-2811},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuropsychology/methods/ethics ; *Telerehabilitation/ethics ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Telemedicine/ethics ; *Psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Canada ; },
abstract = {BackgroundTelerehabilitation (TR) has been increasingly used to deliver psychological and neuropsychological care remotely, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. As health services continue to shift toward telehealth, ensuring ethical and equitable TR delivery is essential to establish sustainable TR models.ObjectiveThe objective of this review is to synthesize existing evidence on the ethical and equity-related benefits and pitfalls associated with the use of TR in a psychological and neuropsychological context for individuals with physical disabilities.MethodsThis rapid review included reviews (2010-2020) and original studies (2020-2023) that focused on TR interventions for people with physical disabilities in the context of psychology and neuropsychology rehabilitation.ResultsA total of 16 reviews and 82 original articles were included. Key ethical concerns centered around privacy, confidentiality, caregiver burden, and clinician-patient relationship quality. Equity concerns centered around access disparities (e.g., geographic location, income), digital literacy, and demographic underrepresentation.ConclusionThis review is part of a pan-Canadian initiative aimed at informing policy development and clinical practice in TR. Findings highlight the need for clear guidelines and targeted interventions to ensure that TR in psychology and neuropsychology is both ethically sound and equitable.},
}

Humans
*Neuropsychology/methods/ethics
*Telerehabilitation/ethics
COVID-19/epidemiology
Telemedicine/ethics
*Psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Canada

@article {pmid41762078,
year = {2026},
author = {Wimalasundera, MO and Mohammad, ZMW and Choudhury, S and Mandour, Y},
title = {Understanding E-Consent in Anaesthesia: A Review of Clinical, Legal, and Ethical Dimensions.},
journal = {British journal of hospital medicine (London, England : 2005)},
volume = {87},
number = {2},
pages = {50953},
doi = {10.31083/BJHM50953},
pmid = {41762078},
issn = {1759-7390},
mesh = {Humans ; *Informed Consent/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Anesthesia ; *Anesthesiology/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The integration of electronic consent (e-consent) into anaesthetic practice has accelerated since the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, offering new opportunities to enhance patient autonomy, documentation fidelity, and clinical efficiency. This review examines the clinical, legal, and ethical dimensions of e-consent, situating it within the statutory and common law frameworks, such as the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the principles established in Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board. It further interrogates the challenges posed by digital exclusion, cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and the environmental implications of transitioning to digital platforms. The emerging role of artificial intelligence in tailoring and strengthening consent processes is explored, while highlighting the imperative to preserve ethical integrity and legal validity.},
}

Humans
*Informed Consent/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Anesthesia
*Anesthesiology/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41762443,
year = {2026},
author = {Balakrishnar, K and Long, BS and Lo, J and Fiorini, LA and Gohar, B and Nowrouzi-Kia, B},
title = {Assessing the antecedents behind after-hours work in teleworkers: a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of public health (Oxford, England)},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {582-593},
pmid = {41762443},
issn = {1741-3850},
mesh = {Humans ; *Teleworking/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Working Conditions ; Work Schedule Tolerance ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, telework arrangements have become increasingly prevalent, driven by benefits such as greater autonomy, reduced work-related stress, decreased commuting time and cost, and enhanced flexibility. Despite these advantages, teleworkers are more likely to engage in after-hours work, creating additional strain that may impact health and organizational outcomes.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across seven online databases: Medline via OVID, Embase via OVID, APA PsycINFO via OVID, International Bibliography of Social Sciences via ProQuest, Sociological Abstracts via ProQuest, Business Source Premier via EBSCOhost, and CINAHL via EBSCOhost. Studies were included if they were empirical, peer-reviewed, published between 2010 and 2024, examined the antecedents of after-hours work, and focused on adults aged 18 to 65 engaged in telework. Descriptive thematic analysis was conducted to develop themes and sub-themes.

RESULTS: Findings: A total of 17 studies were included in the review: 13 cross-sectional studies, three qualitative studies, and one longitudinal study. Using the Person-Environment-Occupation framework, three overarching themes were identified: (i) misalignment between personal capacities and occupational demands; (ii) environmental constraints that undermine healthy role balance; and (iii) occupational role strain in the context of remote work.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings may help to inform the development of targeted interventions that reduce cases of after-hours work among teleworkers and promote their overall health and well-being. Future research should examine these antecedents in non-Western contexts and explore the interplay between the individual, environmental, and occupational factors shaping after-hours work behaviors.},
}

Humans
*Teleworking/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Working Conditions
Work Schedule Tolerance

@article {pmid41762542,
year = {2026},
author = {Sagués, T and Ferrer, A and Delgado, JF and Julià, G and Rodríguez-González, R and Ruiz, À and Estrada, F and Soria, V and Palao, DJ and Labad, J and Montalvo, I},
title = {Clozapine use and COVID-19 risk: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and retrospective cohort evidence.},
journal = {Psychiatry research},
volume = {359},
number = {},
pages = {117040},
doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2026.117040},
pmid = {41762542},
issn = {1872-7123},
mesh = {Humans ; *Clozapine/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; *Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Clozapine's immune-modulating effects, including neutropenia and suppression of adaptive immunity, have raised concerns about its potential impact on SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and COVID-19 severity in individuals with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Findings in the literature remain inconsistent.

METHODS: First, we conducted a longitudinal retrospective study in which we analysed 995 outpatients with severe mental disorders receiving antipsychotic treatment to assess the association between clozapine use and SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease severity. Secondly, we performed a systematic review of the literature and searched for studies published up to July 2025 examining the link between clozapine exposure and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Eight cohort studies plus our dataset were meta-analysed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: In our cohort, clozapine users demonstrated a higher rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection (18% vs. 10%, p < 0.001) and increased COVID-19 severity compared to non-users. The meta-analysis comprised 155,945 participants, with individual study ORs ranging from 0.40 to 2.80. The pooled random-effects OR was 1.53 (95% CI: 1.02-2.30, p = 0.044), indicating a significant association between clozapine exposure and increased infection risk. However, high heterogeneity (I² = 91.2%) suggests variation in effects across studies.

CONCLUSIONS: Clozapine treatment is associated with an increased risk and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although meta-analytic results support this association, substantial heterogeneity in pooled estimates highlights the need for further research to clarify underlying clinical and methodological factors influencing risk.},
}

Humans
*Clozapine/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Retrospective Studies
*Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid41763558,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, M and Sharma, K and Chon, JE and Yehia, NA and Retnakaran, R and Harris, SB and Hanley, AJ},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 illness on metabolic phenotypes underlying type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic review.},
journal = {Diabetes research and clinical practice},
volume = {235},
number = {},
pages = {113163},
doi = {10.1016/j.diabres.2026.113163},
pmid = {41763558},
issn = {1872-8227},
mesh = {Humans ; *Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/metabolism/complications/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/metabolism/complications/epidemiology ; *Insulin Resistance/physiology ; *Insulin-Secreting Cells/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Phenotype ; },
abstract = {We aimed to systematically review literature investigating the impact of COVID-19 on insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction in humans. Ovid MEDLINE and Embase were searched for studies published between December 2019 and May 2024. Observational studies examining adults with no history of type 2 diabetes comparing the development of insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction between COVID-19 exposed groups vs. controls were included. Risk of bias was assessed using adapted Newcastle-Ottawa and Joanna Briggs Institute scales. Among 6901 studies screened, 10 met the inclusion criteria. Across these studies, 37 individual measures of insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction were reported. Insulin resistance worsened significantly in 16 of 25 (64.0%) comparisons, whereas beta-cell dysfunction worsened significantly in 7 of 12 (58.3%) measures among COVID-19 patients when compared to controls. Five studies were considered low risk of bias. COVID-19 was associated with worsened insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction, suggesting infection may be a metabolic stressor that overwhelms gluco-regulatory mechanisms. Results, especially those for beta-cell function, should be interpreted cautiously given methodological limitations in the utilized measures. These findings highlight the pathophysiological aspects of type-2 diabetes impacted by COVID-19 infection and support the development of targeted monitoring and therapeutic strategies.},
}

Humans
*Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/metabolism/complications/epidemiology
*COVID-19/metabolism/complications/epidemiology
*Insulin Resistance/physiology
*Insulin-Secreting Cells/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Phenotype

@article {pmid41764591,
year = {2026},
author = {Çivilidağ, A and Durmaz, Ş},
title = {The relationship of flexible working arrangements on work-family conflict, work-life balance and organizational commitment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC psychology},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41764591},
issn = {2050-7283},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Technological advances and the COVID–19 pandemic have fundamentally reshaped the global work landscape, establishing flexible work arrangements (FWAs)—such as schedule flexibility and remote work—as a permanent feature of contemporary employment. This shift necessitates a rigorous quantitative synthesis of how FWAs relate to critical employee and organizational outcomes. This study examines the associations between FWAs and work–life balance (WLB), work–family conflict (WFC), and organizational commitment (OC).

METHODS: A systematic review and meta–analysis was conducted across five electronic databases. Initially, 3,777 records were identified. Following the application of strict inclusion and quality criteria, 38 studies from 19 countries (N = 83,951) were selected for analysis. Data were synthesized using the Comprehensive Meta–Analysis (CMA 3.0) software, employing a random–effects model to calculate pooled effect sizes.

RESULTS: The findings revealed significant and relatively large positive correlations between FWAs and WLB (r = .39, p < .001) and between FWAs and OC (r = .29, p < .001). Conversely, while the correlation between FWAs and WFC was positive (r= .25), it was statistically non–significant (p > .05). Meta–regression identified between countries the level of economic development as a significant moderator (p < .001), with the positive relationship of flexibility being significantly more pronounced in developed countries compared to developing nations.

CONCLUSION: This meta–analysis provides robust evidence that FWAs are an effective strategic tool for enhancing WLB and substantially strengthening OC. However, their impact on reducing WFC remains less conclusive and is highly context–sensitive. Organizations are encouraged to formally adopt and support FWAs to improve employee well–being and foster loyalty, while remaining mindful of the macro–level institutional frameworks that shape flexibility outcomes.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40359-026-04216-y.},
}

@article {pmid41765322,
year = {2026},
author = {Yezli, S and Bonanni, P and Dinleyici, EC and Divyesh, T and Kumar, V and Leng, S and Coste, F and Taha, MK},
title = {Invasive meningococcal disease rebound in older adults post-COVID-19 pandemic: A targeted literature and surveillance review.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {166},
number = {},
pages = {108502},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108502},
pmid = {41765322},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Aged ; *Meningococcal Infections/epidemiology/mortality ; Incidence ; Neisseria meningitidis/classification ; Aged, 80 and over ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), caused by Neisseria meningitidis, remains a significant public health concern due to its rapid progression, high case fatality rate (CFR), and evolving epidemiology. Recent trends suggest a demographic shift toward older adults. This review examined post-COVID-19 changes in IMD epidemiology among adults aged ≥65 years, including regional variations, serogroup distribution, and mortality.

METHODS: A targeted literature review was conducted using OVID (Embase, MEDLINE) following PICOS-T criteria, including full-text English-language studies published between January 2021 and June 2024, supplemented by surveillance reports.

RESULTS: Of 1639 records screened, four peer-reviewed publications and ten surveillance reports met inclusion criteria. During the COVID-19 pandemic, IMD incidence declined sharply across all age groups, including older adults. Post-pandemic data indicate a re-emergence of IMD among older populations, with incidence in several regions returning to or exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 2023. Across multiple locations, serogroup Y emerged as the dominant or increasingly prevalent serogroup among older adults. CFR varied by region and serogroup and consistently remained high in this age group.

CONCLUSION: These findings demonstrate the re-emergence of IMD among older adults and highlight the need for strengthened IMD surveillance and serogroup monitoring in this population, to guide prevention strategies and inform public health policy.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Aged
*Meningococcal Infections/epidemiology/mortality
Incidence
Neisseria meningitidis/classification
Aged, 80 and over
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid41765382,
year = {2026},
author = {Ratnasabesar, V and Kunadian, V},
title = {Health inequalities across England and their impact on cardiovascular diseases.},
journal = {Heart (British Cardiac Society)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/heartjnl-2025-327508},
pmid = {41765382},
issn = {1468-201X},
abstract = {Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the leading causes of mortality in England, with its burden disproportionately concentrated in the North. Studies in the last few decades have highlighted that factors such as low education, high levels of unemployment, poor housing and reduced access to healthy food are strongly associated with the higher incidence of lifestyle risks-smoking, obesity and physical inactivity. These in turn increase rates of hypertension, dyslipidaemia and diabetes in the population. Beyond lifestyle factors, psychosocial mechanisms such as chronic stress and associated increase in allostatic load, due to long-standing deprivation, contribute to the biological risk of CVD. Early life disadvantage, ethnic and gender inequalities, and delayed management of intermediate risk factors further exacerbate the regional divide in England. Furthermore, the long-term impacts of COVID-19 and healthcare-associated national policies, including austerity-related funding deductions, have intensified pre-existing disparities. Evidence demonstrates that current preventative strategies, such as the National Health Service Health Check, have had limited success in reaching underserved communities, highlighting the need for targeted therapies. The National Institute of Health and Care Research Inequalities Challenge is a remarkable opportunity for the United Kingdom's (UK) leading research organisations to help tackle these inequalities associated with CVD and make a significant difference. Without such efforts, the excess CVD burden is likely to persist, perpetuating entrenched health inequalities. This review examines the different social determinants of health underlying these disparities, with a particular focus on socioeconomic deprivation, lifestyle risk factors, environmental and structural issues.},
}

@article {pmid41765774,
year = {2026},
author = {Andoh, JE and Fu, J and Nwanyanwu, KH},
title = {Impact of United States federal funding on equity and vision research: lessons from history, justice, and politics, 1968-2025.},
journal = {Current opinion in ophthalmology},
volume = {37},
number = {3},
pages = {162-167},
doi = {10.1097/ICU.0000000000001212},
pmid = {41765774},
issn = {1531-7021},
mesh = {United States ; Humans ; *Biomedical Research/economics ; *Politics ; *Financing, Government/history ; History, 20th Century ; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion ; *Health Equity ; History, 21st Century ; *Ophthalmology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Federal policy has long shaped the scope and inclusivity of vision research in the United States. This narrative review and opinion article evaluates the evolution of equity in vision research over time, from the landmark National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act of 1993 to the direct impact of federal policies in today's political landscape.

RECENT FINDINGS: Equity in vision research originated from early epidemiologic studies identifying social and behavioral determinants of health in the 1970s. The post-2020 period accelerated attention to structural disparities in healthcare, catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic and a national conversation on race. However, recent executive orders have reversed equity oriented federal policies, restricted terminology and data access, and changed research funding operations. These ongoing developments pose risks to progress in all areas of research.

SUMMARY: Equity in vision research in the United States remains vulnerable to federal priorities that serve to support or destabilize. The current political environment underscores the need for the ophthalmologic research community to safeguard data integrity, sustain diverse participation, and continue methodologically rigorous protocols to ensure continued progress toward equitable vision health.},
}

United States
Humans
*Biomedical Research/economics
*Politics
*Financing, Government/history
History, 20th Century
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
*Health Equity
History, 21st Century
*Ophthalmology
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid41766004,
year = {2026},
author = {Halawi, M},
title = {Disparities in Outpatient and Short-Stay Arthroplasty Surgery: a Critical Review and Proposed Equity-Centered Framework.},
journal = {Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41766004},
issn = {1935-973X},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Over the past decade, outpatient and short-stay total joint arthroplasty (TJA) has transitioned from exception to expectation, driven by enhanced recovery protocols, regulatory changes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. This review synthesizes evidence from 2015 to 2025 regarding inequities in this transition, clarifies key definitions and methodological challenges, and examines the contributing factors and controversies surrounding equitable access to ambulatory surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS: Evidence indicates a widening gap in access and outcomes based on race, ethnicity, and gender. Black and Hispanic patients remain significantly less likely than White patients to undergo outpatient TJA, even when controlling for clinical comorbidities. Recent data also suggests that residence in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods is associated with longer lengths of stay and higher early healthcare utilization. Furthermore, sex-based differences have emerged in postoperative pain management, with women demonstrating higher rates of opioid exposure and persistence. While younger, healthier, and privately insured patients have disproportionately benefited from outpatient pathways, those with public insurance or higher comorbidity burdens face persistent structural barriers to candidacy and safe discharge.

SUMMARY: Achieving equitable outpatient TJA requires a shift from exclusionary risk-screening to an equity-centered framework. This proposed model spans inclusive candidacy, optimization through prehabilitation, care navigation, and the use of site-of-service metrics. Ultimately, mitigating these disparities will require coordinated, multilevel action across policy reform, clinical practice innovation, and community engagement to ensure that the benefits of surgical innovation are accessible to all patient populations.},
}

@article {pmid41766236,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, S and Li, H and Jiang, Z and Liang, J and Zhou, A},
title = {Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Restoroing the immune balance of mild-to-moderate Patients with new coronavirus.},
journal = {Indian journal of pharmacology},
volume = {58},
number = {2},
pages = {114-125},
pmid = {41766236},
issn = {1998-3751},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/immunology ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which brings the epidemic situation to the public has spread rapidly and produce multiple variations. At present, Western medicine still lacks the specific medicine or vaccines for coronavirus. However, amount of evidence shows that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has advantages in releasing the symptoms of mild-to-moderate COVID patients. Those treatments are not only improving the course of the primary disease but also curb progress to severe pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome. Therefore, taking TCM intervention or combined treatments appropriately to prevent worsening illness is of vital significance. This study mainly focuses on the data analysis on the effects of TCM in restoring the immune balance of COVID patients. By collecting clinical data from mild to moderate patients, we expected to figure out if TCM only plays the role of curbing inflammation or having a two-way influence in balancing the immune microenvironment.

METHODS: Seven digital databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang Database, and China Biology Medicine were searched from December 2019 to August 2022 nothingness of language restrictions. The studies retrieved from the database were selected and the data extracted to assess the methodological quality of the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Statistical analysis was completed. Pulmonary computed tomography, clinical cure rate, rate of conversion to severe cases, length of hospital stay, and scores of TCM syndrome were defined as the primary outcomes, the secondary outcomes were white blood cell count, lymphocyte (LYM) count, and C-reactive protein (CRP). This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022341482).

RESULTS: Nine eligible RCTs including 1159 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with Western medicine treatment alone, our meta-analyses found that traditional Chinese combined Western medicine treatment has a higher clinical cure rate, better absorption of lung inflammation, and significantly shorter hospital stay. In terms of inflammatory factors, TCM can significantly reduce the CRP content compared with Western medicine methods, but the leukocyte and LYM content was not significantly different between the two treatments. In some research, TCM even has a trend accelerating the inflammation process on some specific stages of the disease.

CONCLUSION: Chinese herbal medicine combined with conventional therapy is significantly effective and invulnerable in the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19. In terms of control inflammation, TCM does not only block the disease onset by simply inhibiting inflammation but balancing the human environment through bidirectional regulation of inflammatory cells. However, considering of the lack of research into how TCM could activate the natural immune response, the discussion of the mechanism cannot be stretched, more high-quality RCTs are still needed in the future.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/immunology
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/drug therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/drug therapy
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pandemics

@article {pmid41766239,
year = {2026},
author = {Meena, J and Agarwal, A and Sandhu, A and Pradhan, P and Singh, M},
title = {Efficacy and safety of remdesivir for patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Indian journal of pharmacology},
volume = {58},
number = {2},
pages = {137-141},
pmid = {41766239},
issn = {1998-3751},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Treatment Outcome ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy ; *Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {In view of the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there is a need to identify a specific antiviral therapy. We performed this systematic review to assess the efficacy of remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19. We searched three electronic databases for clinical trials investigating remdesivir for COVID-19 and included this systematic review. Five trials evaluating 13,558 participants were eligible for this study. Remdesivir, as compared to standard care, increases the rate of clinical improvement at 2 weeks (risk ratio: 1.10; 95% confidence interval: 1.04-1.18). Time to clinical recovery was shorter in the remdesivir group than the standard care group. The mortality rate was lower at 2 weeks in the remdesivir group, but no difference was observed at 4 weeks postrandomization. Extending the duration of remdesivir from 5 days to 10 days did not improve efficacy but increased the risk of adverse events. Findings from this systematic review suggested that remdesivir may slightly improve recovery time and rate of clinical improvement.},
}

Humans
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Treatment Outcome
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy
*Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41766448,
year = {2026},
author = {Taxiarchis, A and Pruner, I},
title = {Messengers of coagulopathy: complement-carrying extracellular vesicles in SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Current opinion in hematology},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {105-112},
doi = {10.1097/MOH.0000000000000916},
pmid = {41766448},
issn = {1531-7048},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood/complications/immunology ; *Extracellular Vesicles/metabolism/immunology/pathology ; *Complement Activation ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Complement System Proteins/metabolism ; *Blood Coagulation Disorders/etiology/blood ; Complement Membrane Attack Complex/metabolism ; Blood Platelets/metabolism ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: SARS-CoV-2 disease (COVID-19) is increasingly recognized as a thromboinflammatory vascular disorder characterized by dysregulated complement activation, endothelial injury, and sustained hypercoagulability. This review examines emerging evidence that extracellular vesicles act as key intermediaries linking complement activation to coagulation in acute and postacute COVID-19 infection.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies demonstrate that extracellular vesicles released from platelets, endothelial cells, and neutrophils are markedly increased in COVID-19 and exhibit a combined procoagulant and complement-active phenotype. Sub-lytic complement attack, particularly membrane attack complex (MAC) deposition, triggers phosphatidylserine exposure and extracellular vesicle shedding, generating vesicles that support thrombin generation and propagate complement activity in the circulation. Extracellular vesicle-associated complement components, including C1q, C3 fragments, MASP2, and preassembled MACs, promote tissue factor decryption, platelet activation, and assembly of the prothrombinase complex, establishing a self-amplifying thromboinflammatory loop. Proteomic profiling further reveals compartment-specific extracellular vesicle signatures, with systemic extracellular vesicles enriched in complement and coagulation pathways. Importantly, complement-bearing and tissue factor-bearing extracellular vesicles persist beyond acute infection and are increasingly implicated in postacute sequelae of COVID-19.

SUMMARY: Extracellular vesicles serve as mobile platforms integrating complement activation with coagulation, providing a mechanistic framework for acute and chronic immunothrombosis in COVID-19. Targeting extracellular vesicle-mediated complement-coagulation crosstalk may offer novel diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood/complications/immunology
*Extracellular Vesicles/metabolism/immunology/pathology
*Complement Activation
*SARS-CoV-2
*Complement System Proteins/metabolism
*Blood Coagulation Disorders/etiology/blood
Complement Membrane Attack Complex/metabolism
Blood Platelets/metabolism

@article {pmid41766626,
year = {2026},
author = {Jones, M and Krockow, EM and Tromans, SJ and Mukaetova-Ladinska, EB},
title = {Antidepressant prescribing trends for adult patients in the UK and Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic: systematic review.},
journal = {BJPsych open},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {e77},
pmid = {41766626},
issn = {2056-4724},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recent decades have seen a steady increase in antidepressant prescribing, but little is known about prescribing trends during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.

AIMS: This preregistered systematic review, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, aimed to investigate antidepressant prescribing trends for adults in the UK and Republic of Ireland during and after the pandemic. It also compared prescriptions by drug and location.

METHOD: We searched six databases: APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Scopus, medRxiv and Preprints.org. The review included primary research articles reporting trends in antidepressant prescriptions, including at least one time point after March 2020 in the UK and Republic of Ireland. This review has been preregistered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42024498503).

RESULTS: We identified 7,320 studies, of which ten met the search criteria for the review. Studies were grouped on the basis of time period (2020: n = 5; 2021: n = 3; 2022: n = 2), location (England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, UK) and drug type (serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclics, and others (e.g. monoamine oxidase inhibitors)). Most studies (eight of ten) demonstrated increased antidepressant prescribing over time. Two studies highlighted a decrease between March and May 2020. Demographic variables reflected higher rates of prescribing for women, and the modal group receiving antidepressants comprised middle-aged adults.

CONCLUSIONS: The commonly reported increase in antidepressant prescribing corroborates pre-pandemic trends and may suggest further, increased demands for mental health support to meet the unique challenges of the pandemic. Future research is required to evaluate the appropriateness of treatment decisions and to explore psychosocial factors that influence individual prescribing choices.},
}

@article {pmid41766628,
year = {2026},
author = {Szemray, H and Lawler, NG and Lodge, S and Wist, J and Whiley, L},
title = {Dynamic Lipidomic Responses to Inflammation and Physical Insult: A Comparative Review Across Blunt Force Trauma, Thermal Burn Injury, and Viral Infection.},
journal = {Expert reviews in molecular medicine},
volume = {28},
number = {},
pages = {e11},
pmid = {41766628},
issn = {1462-3994},
support = {//Dementia Australia Research Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Burns/metabolism/pathology/blood ; *Lipidomics/methods ; *COVID-19/metabolism/pathology ; *Inflammation/metabolism ; *Brain Injuries, Traumatic/metabolism/blood/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Wounds, Nonpenetrating/metabolism ; Lipid Metabolism ; Lipoproteins/blood ; Biomarkers/blood ; *Lipids/blood ; },
abstract = {Acute insults ranging from blunt force trauma and thermal injury to pathogenic infection elicit systemic inflammatory cascades intended to limit further tissue damage. These responses are accompanied by metabolic disturbances that generate distinct biochemical signatures measurable through advanced analytical platforms, such as mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). Although numerous studies have examined these metabolic alterations, findings remain fragmented across clinical and analytical disciplines, leaving it unclear whether the systemic metabolic response to acute insult is fundamentally conserved or insult-specific. In this comparative review, we consolidate evidence across diverse injury and infection contexts to identify shared metabolic patterns, context-dependent differences, and critical gaps in current understanding. Here, we focus on lipid and lipoprotein profiling of blood plasma and serum. We present exemplar case studies spanning traumatic brain injury, burn injury, and SARS-CoV-2 infection to illustrate how lipid and lipoprotein perturbations differ or converge across insult types. Notable observations include consistently elevated palmitic acid (16:0) and reduced phosphatidylcholine species across all three conditions, suggesting these features may represent cross-condition biomarkers and highlighting the value of comparative metabolic profiling. By integrating evidence across diverse contexts, we propose a framework describing the interplay between lipid metabolism, lipoprotein dynamics, and inflammatory activation. Finally, we discuss the translational potential of metabolic phenotyping in enhancing patient stratification, refining prognostic modelling, and improving patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Burns/metabolism/pathology/blood
*Lipidomics/methods
*COVID-19/metabolism/pathology
*Inflammation/metabolism
*Brain Injuries, Traumatic/metabolism/blood/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
*Wounds, Nonpenetrating/metabolism
Lipid Metabolism
Lipoproteins/blood
Biomarkers/blood
*Lipids/blood

@article {pmid41767143,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, SC and Cheah, KSL and Syed Ali, SKB and Qu, HM and Wang, ZL},
title = {A bibliometric and visualization analysis for global research trends in Wushu and mental health (1981-2024).},
journal = {Frontiers in psychiatry},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1737574},
pmid = {41767143},
issn = {1664-0640},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mental health has become one of the most urgent public health issues in the 21st century, and the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased this problem. As a traditional mind-body practice, Wushu (e.g., Tai Chi, Qigong) is increasingly recognized for its therapeutic potential in mental health. However, bibliometric studies in this eld remain scarce.

METHODS: This study aims to visualize the Wushu and mental health (WMH) related research through bibliometric analysis of the Web of Science database (1981-2024). It examines publication trends, core journals, international collaboration, leading authors, and thematic evolution. A systematic search using Boolean operators identified 536 articles. To conduct a complementary analysis of the findings, this study compared the 23 clinical trials identified from PubMed (2020-2024) with the research trends obtained from the bibliometric analysis.

RESULTS: The study found that the number of published articles and cited times increased significantly in the past five years, which confirmed the influence of COVID-19 in this field. China and the United States, represented by Harvard University, are the main pushing forces in this area. The research focus has shifted from rehabilitation orientation to comprehensive mental and public health perspectives. Future development trends may include strengthening international cooperation, standardizing intervention programs, and cross-cultural research.

CONCLUSION: This multi-database analysis provides researchers and policymakers with a scientific reference for the WMH field. It clearly reflects current research trends and future research directions in WMH.},
}

@article {pmid41767314,
year = {2026},
author = {González, S and Arellano, J and Reza-Zaldivar, EE and Mena-Munguía, S and Minjarez, B and Rodríguez-Yáñez, Y},
title = {Viral mechanisms, tropism, and clinical relevance regarding the ophthalmic manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {International journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {19},
number = {3},
pages = {619-629},
pmid = {41767314},
issn = {2222-3959},
abstract = {To explore the mechanisms underlying ocular infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), we conducted a comprehensive review of current literature, focusing on viral entry pathways, receptor expression in ocular tissues, and associated clinical manifestations. This review encompasses studies published within the last five years with a focus on original research and systematic reviews that provide molecular, histological, or clinical evidence. The findings show that SARS-CoV-2 can infect ocular tissues through multiple receptors beyond angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), including transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), CD147, alanyl aminopeptidase N (ANPEP), dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AGTR2), and polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (PIGR), which are expressed in retinal, conjunctival, corneal, limbal, and photoreceptor cells. The virus may also reach ocular structures via neurovascular invasion. Clinically, patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may present with a broad spectrum of ophthalmic manifestations, including conjunctivitis, hyperreflective lesions in the inner retinal layers, flame-shaped hemorrhages, cotton-wool spots, retinal pallor, hard exudates, and various forms of maculopathy, such as paracentral acute middle maculopathy and acute macular neuroretinopathy (AMN). These signs reflect both direct viral damage and secondary effects of systemic inflammation and microvascular injury. Understanding the molecular and clinical spectrum of ocular involvement is essential for early diagnosis, appropriate ophthalmologic care, and the prevention of long-term visual sequelae in patients affected by COVID-19.},
}

@article {pmid41767650,
year = {2026},
author = {Birdi, S and Patel, A and Rabet, R and Singh, N and Durant, S and Vosoughi, T and Kapra, F and Shergill, M and Mesfin, E and Ziegler, C and Ali, S and Buckeridge, D and Ghassemi, M and Gibson, J and John-Baptiste, A and Macklin, J and Mccradden, M and Mckenzie, K and Mishra, S and Naraei, P and Owusu-Bempah, A and Rosella, L and Shaw, J and Upshur, R and Pinto, AD},
title = {Machine Learning Used in Communicable Disease Control: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Public health reviews},
volume = {47},
number = {},
pages = {1608074},
pmid = {41767650},
issn = {0301-0422},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Communicable diseases continue to threaten global health, with COVID-19 as a recent example. Rapid data analysis using machine learning (ML) is crucial for detecting and controlling outbreaks. We aimed to identify how ML approaches have been applied to achieve public health objectives in communicable disease control and to explore algorithmic biases in model design, training, and implementation, and strategies to mitigate these biases.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central, Scopus, ACM DL, INSPEC, and Web of Science to identify peer-reviewed studies from 1 January 2000, to 15 July 2022. Included studies applied ML models in population and public health to address ten communicable diseases with high prevalence.

RESULTS: 28,378 citations were retrieved, and 209 met our inclusion criteria. ML for communicable diseases has risen since 2020, particularly for SARS-CoV-2 (n = 177), followed by malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. Eighteen studies (8.61%) considered bias, and only eleven implemented mitigation strategies.

CONCLUSION: A growing number of studies used ML for disease surveillance. Addressing biases in model design should be prioritized in future research to improve reliability and equity in public health outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41767904,
year = {2026},
author = {Jagasia, K and Malyan, HH and Kim, J and Kabakibi, M and Moore, AA and Nguyen, AL},
title = {Cannabis Use Among Caregivers of Older Adults: A Systematic Literature Review.},
journal = {Sage open aging},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {30495334261426511},
pmid = {41767904},
issn = {3049-5334},
abstract = {As the global population ages, the number of caregivers has risen accordingly. Though caregiving has many rewards, it may also cause psychological stress. To manage this burden, caregivers may adopt various coping strategies, including cannabis use. This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing literature on cannabis use among caregivers for older adults. A database search in PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL identified 357 unique peer-reviewed articles to screen and five were included in the review. Studies were included if they reported empirical data on cannabis use among caregivers for older adults. Of the five included studies, four studies found that caregivers reporting high stress or emotional burden used cannabis to cope, with two finding new or increased use during the COVID-19 pandemic. One study found that using cannabis improved caregivers' self-reported health and well-being; another found positive caregiver attitudes toward recreational cannabis. Two studies found higher caregiver anxiety was associated with increased cannabis use. Despite limited research, these studies underscore the role of cannabis as a potential coping mechanism for caregivers of older adults experiencing emotional burden. Additional research should seek to characterize longitudinal patterns of cannabis use among caregivers and its potential impact on both caregiver and care recipients.},
}

@article {pmid41768578,
year = {2026},
author = {Castellanos-Hernández, DI and Mayoral-Chávez, MA and Matias-Cervantes, CA and Alpuche, J},
title = {Association between nucleic acid COVID-19 vaccines and acute myocardial infarction in adults: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1752169},
pmid = {41768578},
issn = {2297-055X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-marketing surveillance has documented cardiovascular adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination, including acute myocardial infarction (AMI); however, evidence regarding causal associations remains contradictory.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether a causal association exists between nucleic acid-based COVID-19 vaccines (mRNA and DNA platforms) and AMI in adults aged 18-80 years.

METHODS: A systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines searched PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Google Scholar for studies evaluating mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna) and DNA-based vaccines (AstraZeneca) with AMI as primary outcome. Quality assessment used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS: Twenty-nine studies from 16 countries were analyzed, including 14 population-based cohorts (>142.5 million individuals, >130,000 AMI cases), 12 case reports (54 AMI events), and three pharmacovigilance studies. Large cohorts demonstrated no significant association between nucleic acid vaccines and AMI. A Swedish study (8.1 million) showed protective effects (HR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.74-0.89 for third dose). A Malaysian study (22.2 million) found no significant increase after BNT162b2 (dose 1 IRR: 0.97; dose 2 IRR: 1.08) or ChAdOx1 (dose 1 IRR: 1.02; dose 2 IRR: 1.58). Case reports documented temporal associations but had substantial methodological limitations. Quality assessment revealed low-to-moderate bias in population studies but high bias in case reports and pharmacovigilance data.

CONCLUSIONS: High-quality population-based evidence from 14 independent cohorts does not support a causal association between nucleic acid-based COVID-19 vaccines and AMI. Case reports lack the methodological rigor to establish causality. The documented protective effects after booster doses and consistency across diverse populations demonstrate vaccine cardiovascular safety, supporting continued vaccination policies.},
}

@article {pmid41769275,
year = {2025},
author = {Mohammad, K and Mohaddeseh, B and Amir Hossein, M},
title = {COVID-19 and ACE2 Receptor in Different Tissues: From Pathophysiologic Function To Therapeutic Responses.},
journal = {Archives of Razi Institute},
volume = {80},
number = {3},
pages = {591-604},
pmid = {41769275},
issn = {2008-9872},
mesh = {Humans ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; *COVID-19 ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; *Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism ; Pandemics ; Animals ; *Betacoronavirus/physiology ; Virus Internalization ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is characterized by its high transmission rate, leading to a global pandemic. Millions of people have lost their lives due to the infection caused by this virus. The ability of the virus to spread rapidly and infect large numbers of people has highlighted the need to understand its mechanisms of infection. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an essential receptor for SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. SARS-CoV-2 exhibits a high affinity to this receptor and shows high infectivity, leading to an explosive increase in patients infected with COVID-19. ACE2 is the carboxypeptidase homolog of ACE, which produces angiotensin II, the main active peptide of the renin-angiotensin system. From a pathophysiological perspective, this system regulates vital processes across different organs. Additionally, ACE2 enzyme activity could play a protective role against acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by viral pneumonia. Upon infection, SARS-CoV-2 downregulates the expression of ACE2, which is possibly related to the pathogenesis of ARDS. Since this receptor is present in various other tissues such as the heart, kidney, gastrointestinal tract, reproductive system, and sensory organs, it may contribute to pathological symptoms in these organs. Thus, ACE2 is not only a receptor for SARS-CoV-2 but may also play a crucial role in various aspects of the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and potential post-COVID-19 syndromes. Administering ACE2 could competitively bind to SARS-CoV, thereby reducing viral spike protein from attaching to transmembrane ACE2 and consequently reducing viral cell entry into cells and COVID-19 symptoms. In this review, we first examine the role of ACE2 in the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 across different tissues and propose treatment strategies for COVID-19 that involve ACE2.},
}

Humans
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
*COVID-19
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*Receptors, Virus/metabolism
*Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism
Pandemics
Animals
*Betacoronavirus/physiology
Virus Internalization

@article {pmid41769292,
year = {2025},
author = {Abdol Ghaffar, E and Zeliha, S and Hamdia Yousif, I and Elifsena Canan, AA and Shahid, A},
title = {Next-Generation Vaccines and Antiviral Platforms: Molecular Advancements in the Struggle against Emerging Zoonotic and Viral Diseases.},
journal = {Archives of Razi Institute},
volume = {80},
number = {3},
pages = {555-568},
pmid = {41769292},
issn = {2008-9872},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control/virology ; *Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology ; *Viral Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology ; Antiviral Agents ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control/virology ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {The ongoing occurrence of zoonotic and viral diseases, such as SARS-CoV-2, H5N1, Nipah, and Ebola viruses, underscores the requirement for transformative innovations in vaccine and antiviral development. Classic vaccine technologies like inactivated or live-attenuated virus products have lengthy production cycles, cold-chain storage, and are poorly suited to reacting rapidly to emerging threats This review synthesizes the most recent advances in molecular virology, immunogen design, and biotechnology that will propel the next generation of prevention and treatment tools. We begin with the genomic and structural characteristics of high-consequence zoonotic viruses, highlighting the molecular determinants for virulence, host switching, and immune evasion. The review then provides a comparative review of the emerging vaccine platforms such as mRNA, DNA, viral vector, subunit, and inactivated vaccines based on design rationale, delivery systems, immunogenicity profiles, and global rollouts. At the same time, molecular mechanisms of antiviral drugs acting against viral polymerases, proteases, and entry mechanisms are discussed, and the new challenge of resistance evolution is emphasized. We also highlight recently developed molecular diagnostic tools like CRISPR-based tools, nanopore sequencing, and isothermal amplification technologies that are transforming real-time pathogen diagnosis in veterinary and human medicine. Last, the One Health aspect is introduced through veterinary applications of vaccines to zoonotic spillover prevention and antimicrobial resistance. In conclusion, this review gives a vision-orientated account of molecular strategies that bring together human and animal medicine to combat future pandemics. Our aggregated tables and visualizations are an asset for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers interested in the improvement of epidemic preparedness and cross-species disease surveillance.},
}

Animals
Humans
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control/virology
*Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology
*Viral Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology
Antiviral Agents
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control/virology
Vaccine Development

@article {pmid41769697,
year = {2026},
author = {Rouhana El Feghali, Y and Rabih, L and Abdul Khalek, J and Arabi, M},
title = {Remdesivir in COVID-19: pros and cons.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1731244},
pmid = {41769697},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Beginning in late 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 rapidly evolved into a global health crisis. High rates of severe illness, hospitalizations, and long-term complications highlighted an urgent need for effective therapeutic agents. This necessity drove unprecedented efforts in drug discovery and repurposing. Remdesivir, developed by Gilead Sciences in 2009, was initially designed as a broad-spectrum antiviral targeting Ebola virus disease. Following observations of broad antiviral activity against coronaviruses, remdesivir was granted Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA in May 2020 for hospitalized patients with severe COVID-19. The FDA subsequently issued full approval in October 2020, expanding remdesivir's use to hospitalized adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years or older and weighing at least 40 kg.

AIM: This paper aims to assess the advantages and limitations of remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19, drawing on evidence from clinical trials and examining its application in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD).

METHODS: The literature review was conducted until September 2025 using PubMed and Google Scholar searching for recent clinical trials in addition to relevant reviews.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Remdesivir has been shown to shorten recovery time and lower mortality risk, particularly in patients at an early stage of infection with mild disease severity or requiring oxygen support. Although early guidelines advised against its use in patients with severe renal impairment, subsequent studies confirmed its safety prompting an FDA label update to allow use regardless of renal function. While some trials reported limited effects, the overall body of evidence supports remdesivir's role in improving clinical outcomes in COVID-19 treatment. In patients with CHD, the uncertain effects of both COVID-19 and remdesivir highlight a key research gap, emphasizing the need to refine existing therapies while following National Institutes of Health (NIH) treatment guidelines.},
}

@article {pmid41769699,
year = {2026},
author = {Wan, C and Liu, X and Xu, Y and Kang, L and Yu, X and Wang, M and Zhao, M and Li, X and Chen, Z and Wu, J and Liu, L and Xu, X},
title = {Polydatin in respiratory diseases: multi-target mechanisms and therapeutic potential.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1752467},
pmid = {41769699},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {Respiratory diseases constitute a heterogeneous group of disorders that primarily involve the lungs. Driven by worsening air pollution, tobacco use, occupational exposures, the COVID-19 pandemic, and population aging, they show persistently high incidence with rising mortality and disability, posing a major global public-health challenge. Current pharmacotherapies-principally antibiotics, glucocorticoids, β2-adrenoceptor agonists, and antiviral agents-yield only limited benefit and are constrained by adverse reactions such as gastrointestinal disturbances and hepatorenal toxicity, alongside the escalating problem of drug resistance. The development of safer and more effective therapeutics is therefore of considerable clinical and socioeconomic importance. Plant-derived natural products have attracted increasing interest in the management of respiratory diseases. Polydatin (resveratrol-3-O-β-D-glucoside; also known as piceid; PD) is a stilbenoid polyphenol of plant origin that is widely distributed in Polygonum cuspidatum (Japanese knotweed), Polygonum multiflorum, grapes, peanuts, mulberries, blueberries, and rhubarb. Accumulating evidence indicates that PD exerts anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and metabolic-regulatory activities and shows potential therapeutic value in pulmonary fibrosis, acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome, pneumonia, lung cancer, and asthma. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the multi-target and multi-pathway mechanisms by which PD acts against respiratory diseases, offering a mechanistic rationale and evidence base to support its clinical development.},
}

@article {pmid41771782,
year = {2026},
author = {DiFrancesco, R and Wood, TD and Cha, R and Hochreiter, JS and Rosenkranz, SL and Farhad, M and Whitson, KR and Gould, CE and Hill, LE and Hale, LL and Lindhorst, PH and Ghazal, D and Taylor, CR and Quraishi, M and Siminski, SM and Cramer, Y and Sprenger, HL and Morse, GD},
title = {Clinical Pharmacology Quality Assurance Program for Global HIV and Co-Infection Drug Development.},
journal = {Clinical pharmacology and therapeutics},
volume = {119},
number = {5},
pages = {1205-1215},
pmid = {41771782},
issn = {1532-6535},
mesh = {Humans ; *HIV Infections/drug therapy ; *Pharmacology, Clinical/standards ; *Coinfection/drug therapy ; *Drug Development/standards/methods ; United States ; Quality Control ; *Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use ; *Quality Assurance, Health Care ; },
abstract = {When the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome emerged in the 1980s, the United States National Institutes of Health established research networks to conduct clinical trials with the pharmaceutical industry to identify effective antiretroviral therapeutics. The clinical trials networks included laboratory centers with academic pharmacology laboratories measuring drug concentrations to allow for the estimation of pharmacokinetic parameters and correlation with pharmacodynamic outcomes. Adoption of comprehensive quality assurance initiatives was key to ensuring the integrity of pharmacology sampling and laboratory data provided by clinical sites and laboratories. Subsequently, this infrastructure facilitated rapid responses to co-infection pathogens such as hepatitis C virus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. In 2008, the Center for Integrated Global Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo was awarded the initial National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases contract for the Clinical Pharmacology Quality Assurance Program. Since 2015, over 4,500 tutorial certificates for research staff and laboratories have been awarded on topics including the conduct of clinical pharmacology research protocols and bioanalytical method validation for antiretroviral assays. A bioanalytical peer review program for ensuring the quality of the assay methods has approved over 350 assays for > 100 analytes in 21 human biological matrices. An ISO-17043 accredited external proficiency testing program has completed 35 rounds for 15 analytes. Also, a laboratory assessment program was established that utilizes international laboratory and regulatory standards, and multiple mechanisms for training, assistance and guidance to participants. This report summarizes the development of the CPQA program over the last decade.},
}

Humans
*HIV Infections/drug therapy
*Pharmacology, Clinical/standards
*Coinfection/drug therapy
*Drug Development/standards/methods
United States
Quality Control
*Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use
*Quality Assurance, Health Care

@article {pmid41772834,
year = {2026},
author = {Kucharska, K and Ali, AH and Moriarty, F},
title = {Exploring perspectives of interest-holders on the use of health and genomic data from deceased participants in research: An updated systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of genetic counseling},
volume = {35},
number = {2},
pages = {e70186},
pmid = {41772834},
issn = {1573-3599},
mesh = {Humans ; *Information Dissemination ; *Genomics ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Research Subjects/psychology ; },
abstract = {The use of research biobanks and databases often involves prolonged storage of data, meaning that an increasing amount of deceased participants' data is being used in research. Research participants are not always informed of the intent to continue using their data post-mortem, and using such data affects the privacy of decedents and their surviving relatives. It is therefore important to assess the perspectives of interest-holders in this respect, considering the rapid progress of big-data technologies, new privacy regulations in the EU and unprecedented data sharing during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper aimed to update a systematic review by Bak et al., to investigate the views of interest-holders on post-mortem data sharing in research. This systematic review followed the same search strategy and inclusion criteria as the previous review, focusing on new empirical evidence on the views of interest-holders regarding the post-mortem sharing or re-use of genetic or health data of research participants, from studies published in 2019-2025. It is reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRIMSA) statement. Findings of included studies were narratively synthesized. The updated systematic review identified seven studies involving 2151 participants, which were of high quality. The main themes of these studies related to perceived acceptability of post-mortem data sharing, aspects of consent (including broad consent), sharing clinical findings with relatives, and barriers and facilitators to data sharing. The findings illustrate that post-mortem genetic and health-related data use remains a relatively under-explored subject, with evident gaps in legislation and guidance.},
}

Humans
*Information Dissemination
*Genomics
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Research Subjects/psychology

@article {pmid41773392,
year = {2026},
author = {Muzamhindo, DN and Chironda, G and Tsoka-Gwegweni, JM},
title = {Implementation of malaria control programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Southern African Development Community Elimination 8 countries: A scoping review.},
journal = {African journal of primary health care & family medicine},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e1-e12},
pmid = {41773392},
issn = {2071-2936},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Malaria/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Pandemics ; Africa, Southern/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Disease Eradication ; Evidence Gaps ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Malaria is one of the communicable diseases affecting the whole world. The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region is the most affected, with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Malaria Elimination 8 (E8) countries accounting for 90% and 95% of the cases, respectively. The WHO tasked the SADC Malaria E8 countries to eliminate malaria by 2030, yet the COVID-19 pandemic response disrupted health programmes.

AIM:  The review aims to map and synthesise the evidence on malaria control programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic in the SADC E8 countries to identify gaps, inform policy, enhance planning for future pandemics and promote the attainment of the SADC 2030 Malaria E8 goal.

METHOD:  The reviewers conducted this review using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. The population, concept and context (PCC) guided inclusion and exclusion criteria. Information relevant to the review questions was extracted using data extraction tools.

RESULTS:  Of the 658 articles retrieved, only 7 met the inclusion criteria. Half of the publications were done in 2021, and nothing was published in 2020. The publishers were predominantly public health experts.

CONCLUSION:  There is limited research on the malaria programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Malaria E8 countries.Contribution: The review brings out the need for research on the topic, policies that promote the continuation of malaria programmes during a pandemic and the employment of coping strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Malaria/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Pandemics
Africa, Southern/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Disease Eradication
Evidence Gaps

@article {pmid41773597,
year = {2026},
author = {Alsulami, AS and Al-Kuraishy, HM and Waheeb, TS and El-Saber Batiha, G},
title = {Colchicine in COVID-19: Mechanistic Insights and Clinical Uncertainties.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70126},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70126},
pmid = {41773597},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Colchicine/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Autophagy/drug effects ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/immunology ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) which caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has been emerged as a global health crisis characterised by severe immune dysregulation and inflammatory complications. The hyper-activation of the immune response in COVID-19 patients is associated with disease progression and severity. As a result, immunomodulatory therapies such as colchicine have been suggested to control exaggerated immune response in COVID-19. However, the therapeutic role of colchicine in COVID-19 remains a subject of debate due to conflicting evidence. This review highlights both the beneficial and potentially harmful effects of colchicine in the context of COVID-19. Notably, the therapeutic advantages of colchicine are linked to the suppression of immune cell over-activation, attenuation of oxidative stress, and prevention of thrombo-inflammatory events. Conversely, colchicine may exert negative effects by disrupting microtubule function, impairing autophagic processes, and inducing mitochondrial dysfunction in COVID-19. In conclusion, the overall clinical impact of colchicine plays a critical role in the management of COVID-19. However, its dual effects underscore the need for well-designed clinical studies to confirm its safety and efficacy in COVID-19 management.},
}

Humans
*Colchicine/therapeutic use/adverse effects
COVID-19/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Autophagy/drug effects
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/immunology

@article {pmid41774181,
year = {2026},
author = {Sundaram, K and Rathinam, S},
title = {Advances in functional transcriptome analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: a review.},
journal = {Molecular genetics and genomics : MGG},
volume = {301},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41774181},
issn = {1617-4623},
abstract = {Drug-resistant tuberculosis poses a significant global challenge necessitating the prompt advancement of novel therapeutic options. Nonetheless, disease prognosis is contingent upon multiple factors. mRNA and other small RNAs are essential for gene regulation and disease progression. Additionally, they are essential for the advancement of TB mRNA therapies. The review aims to evaluate the functions of mRNA and various small RNAs, including lncRNA, miRNA, circRNA, and ceRNA, as interconnected components within the mRNA-miRNA-circRNA axis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In this context, the analysis of various genes expressed during transcription is essential; however, the TB group’s mRNA expression levels of the CXCL10, CXCL9, IL1B, and PLA2G2D genes were substantially higher compared to the control group. In addition, EspC, MetE, and PPE15 increased IgG levels. Besides, the inadequate IgG responses to m-ESAT6 and m-EsxI present a noteworthy research opportunity. Evidence that neutralizing antibodies provide protection against viral infections targeted by mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic supports this research. mRNA-based vaccination analogues offer potential therapeutic advantages following BCG administration. Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are efficiently inhibited by the mRNA therapy, namely the repRNA-ID91/ID91 + GLA-SE vaccination, which elicits humoral and cellular immune responses. Therefore, the therapeutic use of mRNA, as demonstrated by numerous studies, suggests its potential as an efficacious therapeutic vaccine subsequent to BCG treatment. Also, investigating the ceRNA network and the relationships among miRNA, circRNA, lncRNA, and mRNA in TB study will improve the management of this infection.},
}

@article {pmid41774375,
year = {2026},
author = {He, S and Ibrahim, NA and Kang, MS},
title = {Evaluating the Multilingual Accessibility of Health Websites for Immigrants and Ethnic Minorities: A Methodological Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of immigrant and minority health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41774375},
issn = {1557-1920},
abstract = {Offering multilingual options on health websites is crucial, as it facilitates access to online health information for immigrants and ethnic minorities. In response to the necessity of research in this field and the growing scholarly interest, this study reviewed recent empirical studies on the multilingual accessibility of health websites to offer methodological insights into this research field while highlighting existing research gaps. Three databases, namely, Web of Science, PubMed, and CINAHL, were searched for studies published between 1 March 2014 and 1 March 2024. Fifty-three eligible studies were included. Data were extracted from nine dimensions and synthesized to address four research questions: conceptual orientations, research gaps, research pathways, and website selection methods. The data synthesis revealed that: (i) research gaps exist, particularly with COVID-19 as the predominant health topic; (ii) the reviewed studies were geographically focused on only 12 regions, with the United States receiving the most extensive attention (54.5%); (iii) only 16 studies (30.2%) specifically targeted immigrants or ethnic minorities; (iv) only five different languages appeared as source languages of the studied websites, and 86.8% of studies focused on websites originally prepared in English; and (v) common criteria for evaluating multilingual accessibility included the presence of multilingual options, languages offered, translation methods, and the quantity of multilingual information. This review offers insights into the research gaps and methodologies for evaluating the multilingual accessibility of health websites. Future studies could focus on empirical research across diverse health websites, regions, and language pairs. A ready-to-use checklist of criteria for evaluating multilingual accessibility is needed.},
}

@article {pmid41774995,
year = {2026},
author = {Sahu, JK and Coan, AC and Chan, J and Jocic-Jakubi, B and Dhir, P and Niveditha, M and Devi, N and Singh, MB and Shafer, PO and Hsiang-Yu, Y and Ali, A and Yoo, JY and Zelano, J and Sarfo, FS and Pablo Sebastián, F and Gwer, SA and Rivera, Y and Kissani, N and Caraballo, RH and Bansal, D and Trinka, E and Cross, JH and Samia, P},
title = {Applications and impact of telemedicine for persons with epilepsy: a scoping review.},
journal = {Seizure},
volume = {136},
number = {},
pages = {107-116},
doi = {10.1016/j.seizure.2026.01.016},
pmid = {41774995},
issn = {1532-2688},
mesh = {Humans ; *Epilepsy/therapy/diagnosis ; *Telemedicine/economics ; COVID-19 ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; },
abstract = {Telemedicine is emerging as a promising strategy to overcome geographical and specialist access constraints in epilepsy care. This scoping review, conducted by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) Telemedicine Task Force, aimed to map the existing evidence on the applications, effectiveness, and challenges of telemedicine in epilepsy management. A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, conducted up to May 2025 without language restrictions, identified original studies evaluating telemedicine for epilepsy diagnosis, management, or follow-up. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively. Of the 201 included studies, approximately 70% originated from high-income settings. Evidence demonstrated diagnostic accuracy ranging from 75% to 97%, cost savings of about US$30 per consultation, and high satisfaction levels among patients (87-95%) and physicians (74-94%). Telemedicine also reduced no-shows by 45%, ensuring continuity of care during healthcare disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, telemedicine is a feasible adjunct to conventional epilepsy care, enhancing access, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness. To substantiate its role in diverse settings, well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate long-term outcomes, equity, and sustainability.},
}

Humans
*Epilepsy/therapy/diagnosis
*Telemedicine/economics
COVID-19
Cost-Benefit Analysis

@article {pmid41775098,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Di, S and Kabir, J and Kaburu, FM and Yang, X and Kudiza, A and Tong, C and Zhu, P and Intizar, M and Jiang, J and McDonnell, D and Bentley, BL and Cheshmehzangi, A and Ahmad, J and Šegalo, S and Nie, JB and da Veiga, CP and Xiang, YT and Su, Z},
title = {Mental health challenges in older women: A systematic review of post-COVID technology-based interventions.},
journal = {Asian journal of psychiatry},
volume = {118},
number = {},
pages = {104906},
doi = {10.1016/j.ajp.2026.104906},
pmid = {41775098},
issn = {1876-2026},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19 ; Aged ; Pandemics ; *Mental Health ; Digital Health ; *Mental Disorders/therapy ; *Coronavirus Infections ; *Pneumonia, Viral ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Mental Health Services ; *Women's Health ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Older women face disproportionate health challenges, exacerbated by multiple unprecedented challenges such as global aging, disease outbreaks, and geopolitical as well as technological upheavals. This study examines technology-based mental health interventions for this demographic, aiming to inform policy.

METHODS: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) targeting older women's mental health post-COVID-19 was conducted using databases like Web of Science and PubMed, adhering to PRISMA guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020194003).

RESULTS: A total of 3463 articles were screened for eligibility, among which, 17 RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The review results show that 17 RCTs were conducted in middle-income and high-income countries. Fifteen RCTs generated statistically significant outcomes and reported specific aspects of their interventions to improve the mental health of older women.

CONCLUSION: Technology-based interventions show promise for improving older women's mental health. Policy recommendations include establishing comprehensive mental health centers, implementing universal healthcare, promoting digital literacy, and strengthening public awareness campaigns.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19
Aged
Pandemics
*Mental Health
Digital Health
*Mental Disorders/therapy
*Coronavirus Infections
*Pneumonia, Viral
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Mental Health Services
*Women's Health

@article {pmid41776570,
year = {2026},
author = {Sakai, K and Yoshida, T and Chiba, T and Yamaga, M and Takemoto, M},
title = {Pitfalls in the management of undiagnosed secondary adrenal insufficiency: a case report and review of the literature.},
journal = {Journal of medical case reports},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41776570},
issn = {1752-1947},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Adrenal Insufficiency/diagnosis/drug therapy/complications ; *Hydrocortisone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Hyponatremia/etiology ; Fluid Therapy/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; Refeeding Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prolonged cortisol deficiency in undiagnosed central adrenal insufficiency can lead to severe hypotonic hyponatremia due to inappropriate vasopressin secretion and malnutrition caused by inhibition of orexigenic signals. Notably, although hydrocortisone-induced recovery can trigger osmotic demyelination and refeeding syndromes, no previous report has simultaneously described these complications and documented significant decreases in vasopressin levels, along with changes in urine osmolality and volume before and after hydrocortisone administration.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 48-year-old Japanese man presented with fever, severe nausea, and oliguria and was brought to our hospital by ambulance due to impaired consciousness. Physical examination and laboratory analysis showed severe euvolemic hypotonic hyponatremia and low-normal glucose value. Low adrenocorticotrophic hormone and cortisol levels, undetectable 24-hour urinary free cortisol, and minimal response to corticotropin-releasing hormone indicated secondary adrenal insufficiency. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed slight pituitary swelling, suggesting hypophysitis. Treatment started with a 200 mg hydrocortisone infusion over 24 hours, and 6 hours later, the patient experienced a marked decrease in vasopressin levels, accompanied by significant dilute urine excretion and an excessively rapid increase in blood sodium levels, which posed a risk of osmotic demyelination. Rehydration with 5% dextrose and desmopressin was used to prevent this risk. Carefully adjusting plasma osmolality successfully prevented osmotic demyelination syndrome. Hydrocortisone replacement significantly increased the patient's appetite, leading to refeeding hypophosphatemia and disorientation; however, these resolved with intravenous sodium phosphate replacement. The patient developed a fever on day 12 and was confirmed to have coronavirus disease 2019. The fever subsided by day 16 with molnupiravir treatment and hydrocortisone dose adjustment, and he was discharged on day 23 with a maintenance dose of hydrocortisone.

CONCLUSION: Careful management is required while administering hydrocortisone in patients with undiagnosed adrenal insufficiency, as it may cause osmotic demyelination syndrome or refeeding syndrome due to sudden changes in blood electrolytes.},
}

Humans
Male
Middle Aged
*Adrenal Insufficiency/diagnosis/drug therapy/complications
*Hydrocortisone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Hyponatremia/etiology
Fluid Therapy/methods
Treatment Outcome
Refeeding Syndrome

@article {pmid41776637,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, L and Wang, F and Wang, X and Chen, X and Li, C and Shan, K and Zhou, H and Wu, G and Xu, Z and Kong, X and Wei, P},
title = {The lung-brain axis: elucidating the mechanisms of pulmonary-driven neurological disorders.},
journal = {Journal of neuroinflammation},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41776637},
issn = {1742-2094},
support = {22201164//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82571352//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; QDZDZK-2025064//the Qingdao Key Health Discipline Development Fund/ ; ZR2024QH041//the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province/ ; QDKY2023ZD02//the Scientific Research Foundation of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University/ ; 2024M761822//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {The brain and lungs represent two of the most vital organs in the human body. The conceptualization of the lung-brain axis has advanced our understanding of the bidirectional communication between the respiratory and central nervous systems. Accumulating evidence indicates that pulmonary diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, acute respiratory distress syndrome and infections such as bacterial pneumonia, influenza and Coronavirus Disease 2019, along with airborne environmental exposures, constitute significant risk factors for various neurological disorders. The lung-brain axis is primarily mediated by microbial, immune, neural, metabolic and hormonal pathways. These mechanisms contribute to the disruption of blood-brain barrier integrity, the activation of neuroglial cells and the dysfunction of the cerebrovascular system, ultimately causing neuronal injury and diverse neurological conditions. Environmental factors, notably airborne particulate matter and chemical pollutants, further amplify the crosstalk among these mechanisms, extending the neurological risk. Here, we summarize the current knowledge regarding the association between pulmonary dysfunction and the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease), stroke, anxiety/depression, epilepsy, and migraine. Additionally, potential therapeutic strategies targeting the lung–brain axis are discussed to foster further research in this emerging field. Elucidating the complex interactions within the lung–brain axis will not only deepen our understanding of the shared pathophysiological mechanisms but also open novel avenues for the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of related neurological diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41776658,
year = {2026},
author = {Oh, E and Mueller-Alcazar, A and Kottysch, S and Groth, N and Mahlke, CI},
title = {Effects of digital communication tools on patients, family members and health care professionals in adult ICUs: a mixed-methods systematic review.},
journal = {Critical care (London, England)},
volume = {30},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41776658},
issn = {1466-609X},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the rapid adoption of digital communication tools in clinical settings. This review aims to identify, synthesize, and critically appraise evidence on digital communication methods or interventions in adult intensive care units (ICUs) intended to promote the psychological and physical well-being of patients and their families, and to explore the associated impacts on healthcare professionals. DESIGN: Mixed-methods systematic review (MMSR). INFORMATION SOURCES: A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, PSYNDEX, the Cochrane Library, and PROSPERO from 2010 to September 2023 and updated to July 2025. Reference lists and trial registries were screened for additional and ongoing studies. METHODS: Following the JBI convergent integrated approach and PRISMA 2020 guidelines, quantitative data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were pooled in random-effects meta-analyses for family satisfaction and patient anxiety. Numerical findings from non-RCTs were qualitized and synthesized narratively. The qualitative data were subjected to thematic synthesis. All results were integrated into a single line of argument. RESULTS: Fifty-four studies were included, comprising 22 qualitative, 25 quantitative, and 7 mixed-methods designs from 19 countries; 92% were conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over half of the studies examined virtual visiting or video communication (57%, n = 31), whereas the others evaluated structured patient-status updates, family support teams, dynamic interaction platforms, or interventions for mechanically ventilated or delirious patients. Methodological quality was moderate to high in 96% of the studies. The meta-analysis of three RCTs demonstrated a moderate to strong improvement in family satisfaction (standardized mean difference = 0.76, 95% CI 0.45–1.06, p < .001) with virtual communication compared with usual care. Pooled effects on patient anxiety (mean difference = -2.19, 95% CI -4.62 to 0.23) and depression were nonsignificant, although qualitative findings consistently described perceived reductions in anxiety, loneliness, and emotional distress. Across study types, digital communication enhanced information sharing, supported shared decision-making, and increased family involvement. Key barriers included technical difficulties, privacy concerns, and staff workload, whereas facilitators comprised user-friendly technology, structured preparation, and continuity through a dedicated contact person. CONCLUSIONS: Digital communication in adult ICUs is feasible, acceptable, and beneficial for patients, relatives, and healthcare professionals. Virtual tools improve family satisfaction and complement patient- and family-centred care, but sustainable integration requires clear protocols, staff training, and ethical frameworks beyond pandemic conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41776692,
year = {2026},
author = {Muhetaer, Y and Zhang, SM and Moming, A and Liu, K and Zhong, M},
title = {Prediction of high-flow nasal cannula failure in critically ill patients: a narrative review.},
journal = {Journal of intensive care},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41776692},
issn = {2052-0492},
abstract = {High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy is widely used for respiratory support in critically ill patients, offering benefits such as improved oxygenation and reduced respiratory rate. However, HFNC failure can lead to adverse outcomes, including increased mortality. This narrative review examines predictive factors and indices for HFNC failure, including respiratory rate, P/F and S/F ratios, the ROX index, HACOR score, and emerging indices, such as VOX and FOX. Among these, the ROX index and HACOR score currently provide the most robust predictive value, whereas newer tools such as VOX and FOX require further validation. The ROX index, combining oxygenation and respiratory rate, has shown significant predictive value, particularly in COVID-19 patients, though its thresholds and timing for assessment remain variable. Modified versions of the ROX index, incorporating heart rate and PaO2, have improved predictive accuracy. The HACOR score, initially developed for non-invasive ventilation, also predicts HFNC failure but may be less discriminative in emergency settings. Emerging indices such as VOX and FOX offer novel approaches but face clinical application challenges due to measurement complexities. Risk stratification models, scoring systems, ultrasound techniques, and machine learning methods show promise but require further validation. This review highlights the importance of integrating multiple predictive tools and tailoring assessments to individual patient conditions. Future strategies must also account for nursing quality variables to enhance prediction accuracy in real-world settings. Comprehensive training for healthcare professionals and future multicenter, large-scale studies is essential to refine these predictive strategies and improve patient care quality.},
}

@article {pmid41777372,
year = {2025},
author = {Akazili, J and Anaseba, D and Chatio, S and Amenah, MA and Achala, DM and Beshah, SA and Nwosu, CO and Masuka, N and Tlhakanelo, JT and Chikezie, I and Adote, ENA and Muriithi, GN and Ataguba, JE},
title = {Factors affecting equitable access and uptake of COVID-19 vaccines in Ghana: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1610765},
pmid = {41777372},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; Ghana/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/supply & distribution ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; Vaccination Hesitancy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) emerged as one of the most serious pandemics that impacted health systems and world economies. Vaccination against the pandemic was considered as an effective tool for the prevention and containment of the virus. Following the outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic, efforts were made to enhance procurement and distribution of vaccines across countries with the view to containing the pandemic. However, evidence suggested that several factors hindered access, acceptance and use of the COVID-19 vaccines across the globe. This scoping review, thus, explored factors that influenced access, acceptance and use of the COVID-19 vaccines among Ghanaians and strategies that were needed to improve vaccine uptake especially for the vulnerable populations.

METHODS: We adopted the five-stage analytic framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley to map existing literature on what has been done and documented on the subject. We searched various electronic databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, African journal online (AJOL), and Google Scholar for relevant articles for the review.

RESULTS: In all, fifty-four (54) articles retrieved met our eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Health system factors including untimely payment of vaccinators allowances, shortfalls in logistics and vaccines, lack of transport and long queues at vaccination centers affected access and uptake of the COVID-19 vaccines in Ghana. Additionally, beliefs and perceptions including myths, misconceptions and misinformation around the virus and the vaccines affected people's decision-making to participate in the vaccination exercise. Also, negative reportage through social media platforms created mistrust in COVID-19 vaccine intensions.

CONCLUSION: Even though Ghana made significant progress in addressing the Coronavirus pandemic, hesitancy factors played a crucial role in diminishing Ghana's effort towards meeting global targets in containing the virus and reducing its impact. Strengthening Ghana's public health preparedness and response strategy, through a community-based approach and multi-stakeholder engagement, could improve immunization programs and vaccines uptake in addressing future pandemics.},
}

Humans
Ghana/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/supply & distribution
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Health Services Accessibility
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
Vaccination Hesitancy
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41777703,
year = {2026},
author = {Ekanayake Mudiyanselage, D and Ouyang, CE and Jin, RD and Velmurugan, S and Jiang, Y and Sun, J and Ma, D},
title = {Vitamin D deficiency and disease conditions relevant to: Orthopaedic translation.},
journal = {Journal of orthopaedic translation},
volume = {57},
number = {},
pages = {101061},
pmid = {41777703},
issn = {2214-031X},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Vitamin D, traditionally known for its role in calcium-phosphate homeostasis and bone health, is now recognised as a pleiotropic hormone with critical effects on multiple physiological processes. It exists primarily as ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3), which are biologically inactive until undergoing a sequential hydroxylation in the liver to form 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol), and subsequently in kidney to form the active metabolite 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol). By engaging the vitamin D receptor, it exerts immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, and anti-frailty functions. Deficiency in vitamin D has been implicated in a wide range of disorders, including musculoskeletal weakness, frailty, cognitive decline, autoimmune diseases, and respiratory infections. Vitamin D deficiency affects nearly half of the global population and remains a widespread public health challenge, and effective interventions such as food fortification and targeted supplementation should be prioritized in future strategies.

Vitamin D deficiency represents a modifiable risk factor with implicated effects across systemic, neurocognitive and musculoskeletal systems. Epidemiological evidence links deficiency to increased risk of infection, cognitive decline, frailty and orthopaedic morbidity. In orthopaedic and geriatric populations, maintaining sufficient vitamin D supplementation may reduce fracture and fall risk as well as postoperative complications and infections. These factors are also influenced by vitamin D deficiency-related effects on neurocognition. Vitamin D status may also be relevant in the management of infectious diseases, including respiratory illnesses and COVID-19. This review also discusses mechanistic and practical rationales for clinical translation. Potential interventions include vitamin D co-supplementation, dietary fortification and optimised sun exposure. However, limitations in existing randomised trials underscore the need for consistency in dosing, appropriate formulation, targeted population, as well as baseline deficiency progression status. These insights can guide clinicians, public health policy makers and researchers in developing evidence-based protocols and interventions to reduce vitamin D deficiency-related morbidity.},
}

@article {pmid41779027,
year = {2026},
author = {Laufs, U and Blankenberg, S and Schunkert, H and Thiele, H and Frey, N and Baldus, S},
title = {[Prevention and screening in cardiovascular medicine].},
journal = {Innere Medizin (Heidelberg, Germany)},
volume = {67},
number = {Suppl 1},
pages = {44-47},
pmid = {41779027},
issn = {2731-7099},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Mass Screening ; Female ; Adult ; Male ; Germany ; Risk Factors ; Heart Disease Risk Factors ; Middle Aged ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases are the most frequent cause of death for both women and men in Germany. A proportion of 50-70% of the morbidity and mortality of these diseases would be avoidable by the timely recognition and modification of the risk factors smoking, high blood pressure, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and lack of physical activity. Therefore, there is a major opportunity in a comprehensive lifelong risk management, which includes individual risk stratification and holistic preventive measures. Definite possibilities for improvement are provided by, e.g., targeted statutory measures for reduction of nicotine consumption and early check-ups in young adulthood (25, 35 and 50 years) for detection of hypertension and other risk factors, screening for familial hypercholesterolemia in children and promotion of vaccination against influenza, pneumococci, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), especially for people with heart disease. The combination of behavioral and individual prevention can effectively prevent cardiovascular diseases, increase the quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.},
}

Humans
*Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Mass Screening
Female
Adult
Male
Germany
Risk Factors
Heart Disease Risk Factors
Middle Aged
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid41779259,
year = {2026},
author = {Casaletto, E and Morse, L and Miller, D and Deliz-Gonzalez, J and Larson, D},
title = {Update on the Pathophysiology and Management of Tics.},
journal = {Current neurology and neuroscience reports},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41779259},
issn = {1534-6293},
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review aims to collate takeaways from the most recent and relevant literature related to tics, from genetic studies to case studies elucidating Functional tic like behaviors (FTLBs) and clinical trials of novel drugs in development.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and functional neuroimaging studies have enhanced the understanding of genetic and structural links to Tourette Syndrome (TS). The rise of FTLBs during the Covid-19 pandemic heightened our understanding of this phenomenon and led to the identification of social media’s influence on tics. New studies have identified sex-related difference in TS and common psychiatric co-morbidities. Tic treatment is evolving away from traditional anti-psychotics toward newer compounds including VMAT-2 inhibitors, Ecopipam, and cannabinoid formulations, as well as novel transcranial stimulation approaches.

SUMMARY: Our understanding of tic etiology and pathophysiology as well tics’ functional counterpart FTLBs and social media impact is expanding along with our ability to manage tics with novel treatments in development.},
}

@article {pmid41779576,
year = {2026},
author = {Bragagnolo, LM and Avarca, CAC and Tofani, LFN and Bigal, AL and Moura, GHDS and Chioro, A and Guimarães, CF and Andreazza, R},
title = {[Resilience and technological care arrangements in hospital settings during the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative literature review].},
journal = {Ciencia & saude coletiva},
volume = {31},
number = {2},
pages = {e08452024},
doi = {10.1590/1413-81232026312.08452024},
pmid = {41779576},
issn = {1678-4561},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; Digital Health ; *Hospitals ; },
abstract = {This integrative review analyzed scientific literature to identify technological arrangements for care management (CM) in hospitals used during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the goal of understanding whether and how these arrangements contributed to the resilience of services and systems. A literature search was conducted in three databases for studies published between January 1, 2020, and May 10, 2023. Data analysis was guided by Cecílio's (2011) classification of CM into family, professional, and organizational dimensions. Within the family dimension, relational strategies were found to enhance hospital resilience. In the professional and organizational dimensions, shared decision-making and dialogical interactions among technologies supported resilient and comprehensive care. Information and communication technologies (ICT) played a key role in enabling hospital reorganization while preserving light technologies essential to humanized care. Health systems such as the SUS may benefit from integrating ICT with CM to strengthen coordination among families, professionals, and institutions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Pandemics
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Digital Health
*Hospitals

@article {pmid41780104,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, X and Patel, C and Sharma, K and Giles, ML and Burns, P and Macartney, K and Flanagan, KL and Teh, BW and Williams, PCM},
title = {Immunisation against vaccine-preventable diseases in individuals receiving immunosuppressive targeted therapies.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {78},
number = {},
pages = {128399},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128399},
pmid = {41780104},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/prevention & control/immunology ; *Vaccination ; *Immunocompromised Host ; Vaccine Efficacy ; Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Influenza Vaccines/immunology ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/immunology ; },
abstract = {The availability and clinical use of biological and small molecule targeted therapies is rapidly expanding. The intricate nature of their mechanisms and the impact of the underlying condition make it challenging for clinicians to anticipate the infectious risks and vaccination outcomes for individuals prescribed these therapies. We aimed to summarise the current evidence focusing on the risk of infections, vaccine efficacy and vaccine safety in patients receiving targeted therapies. Our review revealed variable infection risks and vaccine responses in patients on targeted therapies, ranging from dramatic (e.g., alemtuzumab, rituximab) to negligible (e.g., mepolizumab, imatinib). Higher risks of serious infection were associated with receipt of concomitant immunosuppressive medications. Vaccine immunogenicity data were predominantly restricted to COVID-19, influenza, and pneumococcal vaccines, with fewer studies on herpes zoster and hepatitis B vaccines. Vaccine responses were often impaired by many targeted therapies, but rarely eliminated. Therapies with lymphocyte-depleting effects, however, can result in inadequate vaccine responses, and were often affected by underlying conditions and concomitant immunosuppressants. Live vaccine safety remains a prominent concern for patients prescribed targeted therapies, though serious adverse events are rare. Current evidence is largely based on non-randomised trials and observational studies, which limits the strength of conclusions that can be drawn. To address this gap and ensure accurate evaluation of vaccine immunogenicity, clinical efficacy and safety, it is essential that future trials include immunocompromised individuals. Better prediction models or biomarkers for stratifying risk and predicting vaccine efficacy are also important further steps.},
}

Humans
*Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/prevention & control/immunology
*Vaccination
*Immunocompromised Host
Vaccine Efficacy
Immunogenicity, Vaccine
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Influenza Vaccines/immunology
Pneumococcal Vaccines/immunology

@article {pmid41780168,
year = {2026},
author = {Hakim, MS and Widyaningsih, SA and Ikram, A and Goeijenbier, M and Morita, A and Yin, YB},
title = {Fundamental concepts of convergent (parallel) evolution in human-pathogenic viruses and their implications for global health.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {618},
number = {},
pages = {110854},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2026.110854},
pmid = {41780168},
issn = {1096-0341},
mesh = {Humans ; *Evolution, Molecular ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *Viruses/genetics/pathogenicity ; Hepacivirus/genetics ; *Virus Diseases/virology ; Selection, Genetic ; HIV/genetics ; Adaptation, Biological ; COVID-19/virology ; },
abstract = {Various environmental conditions force viruses to continuously evolve to survive. Evolving viruses with improved fitness are subject to positive selection and will pass on their genetic information to the next generation. If virus populations experience similar environmental pressure, they may undergo a dynamic process of molecular adaptation, which is known as convergent or parallel evolution (parallelism). Noteworthy, these phenomena are among the underlying mechanisms of cross-species transmission and emergence of novel viruses in the human population with a significant impact on global health. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend the fundamental concept of parallelism as well as its molecular identification. This will contribute to a better preparedness against future viral epidemics and pandemics. In this review, we first describe the basic concept of parallelisms and various selective pressures that drive this process. We highlight viruses that commonly infect humans, including hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as examples of rapidly evolving viruses undergoing this evolutionary process. Understanding these molecular mechanisms not only improves our knowledge of viral evolution but also informs surveillance strategies and public health responses. Continuous research in this area is crucial to anticipate and mitigate future viral threats.},
}

Humans
*Evolution, Molecular
Global Health
SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*Viruses/genetics/pathogenicity
Hepacivirus/genetics
*Virus Diseases/virology
Selection, Genetic
HIV/genetics
Adaptation, Biological
COVID-19/virology

@article {pmid41780665,
year = {2026},
author = {Maithania, H and Tiwary, P and Oswal, K and Varghese, R},
title = {Lipid-based nanocarriers for antiviral drug delivery: A review of the advances, manufacturing technologies, therapeutic mechanisms, and clinical applications.},
journal = {Chemistry and physics of lipids},
volume = {275},
number = {},
pages = {105574},
doi = {10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2026.105574},
pmid = {41780665},
issn = {1873-2941},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Lipids/chemistry ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Drug Carriers/chemistry ; Animals ; *Drug Delivery Systems ; Liposomes/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The persistent global burden of viral infections, compounded by the emergence of resistance and suboptimal therapeutic efficacy, underscores the urgency for innovative treatment strategies. Recent viral outbreaks such as COVID-19, Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), Zika, Ebola, Nipah, and various influenza viral strains have highlighted the limitations of conventional antivirals. This necessitates the need for targeted, adaptable, and innovative drug delivery platforms. In light of this, LNCs have emerged as versatile systems capable of enhancing drug stability, biodistribution, and cellular uptake. With their tunable architecture and ability to encapsulate diverse antiviral agents, these nanocarriers offer a promising avenue to overcome pharmacological barriers, improve therapeutic efficacy, and enable effective intervention against both established and emerging viral pathogens.

METHOD: To gather supporting evidence, publications were identified on Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect with specific search terms such as "antivirals", "drug loading", "encapsulation efficiency", "lipid nanocarriers", "liposomes", "solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs)", "nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs)", "cubosomes", "virus", "viral disease", and "resistance". We did not impose any restrictions on the publication date during the selection of papers. However, it is imperative to highlight that the initial reports containing specified keywords began publication in 1964; it is noteworthy that a majority of these publications were 2000 or beyond.

CONCLUSION: LNCs, including SLNs, NLCs, liposomes, and cubosomes, etc, demonstrated improved antiviral efficacy by enhancing drug stability, targeted delivery, and bioavailability. Several formulations showed superior pharmacokinetics and reduced toxicity compared to conventional therapies. Additionally, in vivo studies supported enhanced lymphatic uptake and therapeutic outcomes across multiple viral models. Despite notable progress, challenges in scalability, stability, and regulatory compliance limit their clinical translation. Hence, techniques such as microfluidics and other continuous manufacturing approaches improve reproducibility and process control. Moreover, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing LNC development by enabling rapid optimization, in silico prediction of pharmacokinetics, and real-time quality monitoring. Incorporating AI-enabled quality-by-design frameworks with state-of-the-art analytics may streamline regulatory approval. Moving forward, translating LNC technologies from bench to bedside will require scalable production methods, standardized characterization, and regulatory alignment.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Lipids/chemistry
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Drug Carriers/chemistry
Animals
*Drug Delivery Systems
Liposomes/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid41780690,
year = {2026},
author = {Zuo, X and Xiao, X and Dong, X and Wang, J and Lei, X},
title = {Direct-acting antivirals and beyond: emerging approaches to targeting viral RNA and ribonucleoprotein complexes.},
journal = {Antiviral research},
volume = {249},
number = {},
pages = {106383},
doi = {10.1016/j.antiviral.2026.106383},
pmid = {41780690},
issn = {1872-9096},
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *RNA, Viral/metabolism/drug effects/genetics ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; *Ribonucleoproteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/drug effects ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Drug Discovery ; *RNA Viruses/drug effects/genetics ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses, particularly respiratory-transmitted pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, pose a significant and persistent threat to global public health. While vaccines and antiviral drugs have made substantial progress in preventing and controlling these infections, the threat remains, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic strategies. Small molecule and proteins-based therapeutics remain the primary forms of clinical interventions and a mainstay of drug development. Traditionally, these agents target viral or host proteins, including enzymes, receptors, ion channels, and other host factors. However, the landscape of antiviral drug discovery is expanding. Recent research has increasingly highlighted viral RNA (vRNA) and its associated binding proteins as critical and promising therapeutic targets. Beyond its role as a carrier of genetic information, vRNA is actively involved in essential steps of the viral life cycle, including transcription, translation, replication and interactions with host proteins. Therefore, a detailed understanding of vRNA structure and the proteins involved in its synthesis and processing is vital for rational drug design. This review focuses on the development of antiviral drugs and explores the potential of targeting the vRNA genome and vRNA binding proteins for therapeutic interventions.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
*RNA, Viral/metabolism/drug effects/genetics
Virus Replication/drug effects
*Ribonucleoproteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/drug effects
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Drug Discovery
*RNA Viruses/drug effects/genetics

@article {pmid41781075,
year = {2026},
author = {Martins-Pfeifer, C and Bhosale, AS and Zhang, L and Urquhart, O and Verdugo-Paiva, F and Glick, M and Carrasco-Labra, A},
title = {Development of living evidence-informed guidelines, part 1: Framework for the conduct of living systematic reviews and guidelines.},
journal = {Journal of the American Dental Association (1939)},
volume = {157},
number = {3},
pages = {247-256},
doi = {10.1016/j.adaj.2025.09.014},
pmid = {41781075},
issn = {1943-4723},
mesh = {Humans ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; *Systematic Reviews as Topic ; *Evidence-Based Dentistry/standards ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Living guidelines integrate continuous and dynamic updates of systematic reviews to support timely, evidence-informed recommendations. This approach addresses the limitations of static guidelines in rapidly evolving clinical and public health contexts. Living evidence-informed guidelines enable clinicians to implement the most trustworthy and up-to-date research for the benefit of their patients.

TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED: The living framework draws on methodological literature, case studies from international living guideline initiatives, and experiential reports. Sources include published guidance on living systematic reviews; Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation methodology; and real-world applications from organizations like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Australian Living Evidence Collaboration's COVID-19 Taskforce, illustrating operational strategies across planning, production, dissemination, and updating processes.

RESULTS: The framework outlines the following 5 core domains for developing living guidelines: planning, production, reporting, dissemination, and implementation. Key components include topic prioritization, guideline panel composition, continuous evidence monitoring, and decision-making processes guided by the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Evidence-to-Decision framework. Artificial intelligence facilitates literature monitoring and data extraction. Criteria are proposed for transitioning between living and standard recommendation modes. Transparency in reporting updates and structured external review enhance living guideline trustworthiness. Digital dissemination platforms support timely access and interest-holder engagement.

This framework provides practical guidance for organizations developing living guidelines, offering strategies to enhance responsiveness, methodological rigor, and user engagement in rapidly evolving clinical and policy environments. Living evidence-informed guidelines developed following these methods provide updated and reliable evidence for clinicians, patients, and interest-holders, bringing transparency and accessibility of the history of all formulated recommendations.},
}

Humans
*Practice Guidelines as Topic
*Systematic Reviews as Topic
*Evidence-Based Dentistry/standards
COVID-19

@article {pmid41781347,
year = {2026},
author = {Moschioni, M and Siraji, RA and Dissard, R and Segafredo, G and Mutungi, H and Jain, A and Thakur, R and Maurya, N and James, I},
title = {mRNA vaccines and therapeutics beyond COVID-19: A review of the global clinical development landscape, low- and middle-income countries involvement and relevance to their contexts.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2628424},
pmid = {41781347},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; Developing Countries ; *Vaccine Development ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/therapeutic use ; *mRNA Vaccines/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {mRNA vaccines demonstrated transformative potential during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet global access to mRNA research, development, and manufacturing capacity remains unequal. This review systematically maps the global mRNA clinical development landscape beyond COVID-19, based on publicly available sources. A total of 244 vaccine and therapeutic candidates were identified: 123 targeting 23 communicable diseases and 121 targeting 69 non-communicable diseases, including 102 cancer-focused candidates. Two hundred and twenty-seven candidates (93%) were in early clinical development phases and 12 in late-stage development. Eighty-five developers (50 companies, 35 institutes/hospitals) are engaged in this space. Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) participation was limited to 57 candidates, primarily in upper-middle-income countries. This study reveals a rapidly expanding pipeline for diverse diseases, many aligned with LMIC public health priorities, yet with limited LMIC participation. Equitable inclusion, and collaborations are vital for sustainable global development. This study could inform future LMIC-led mRNA development and manufacturing initiatives.},
}

Humans
Developing Countries
*Vaccine Development
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Vaccines, Synthetic/therapeutic use
*mRNA Vaccines/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines
Global Health

@article {pmid41781975,
year = {2026},
author = {Mótyán, JA and Golda, M and Mahdi, M and Nashed, NT and Louis, JM and Tőzsér, J},
title = {Molecular mechanisms of protease precursor autoprocessing of RNA viruses: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41781975},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA Viruses/enzymology ; *Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism ; Polyproteins/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/enzymology ; *Viral Proteins/metabolism ; Proteolysis ; HIV-1/enzymology ; },
abstract = {Many viruses express their proteins in the form of large polyproteins comprising structural and non-structural (e.g. enzymatic) units that are released from the precursor through ordered proteolysis. Proteolytic processing of polyproteins is an indispensable regulatory step for virus maturation and replication that is carried out by the virus-encoded and/or cellular proteases. The activity of a viral protease that is expressed as a part of a polyprotein is controlled in part by the self-cleavage (autoprocessing) from the precursor. The mechanism of protease precursor processing has been established at the molecular level for various RNA virus proteases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Both viral protease precursors are processed via intra- (in cis) and intermolecular (in trans) cleavages at the N- and C-termini, respectively, yielding the mature enzyme. The remarkably similar activation mechanisms of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 PRs suggest that other viral proteases are activated similarly. In this review, we provide a detailed overview on the protease precursor autoprocessing mechanism of HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 proteases and compare those to the activation mechanism of non-viral proteases from their zymogens. Also, we review the activation mechanism of other ss(+)RNA viruses that utilize the polyprotein pathway for their replication. Based on such comparison, it appears that the protease activation mechanisms of most enveloped ss(+)RNA viruses from their precursors share many common features, although they do not correlate directly with the evolutionary relationships, the presence or absence of viral envelope or the catalytic mechanism of the viral protease.},
}

Humans
*RNA Viruses/enzymology
*Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism
Polyproteins/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/enzymology
*Viral Proteins/metabolism
Proteolysis
HIV-1/enzymology

@article {pmid41782074,
year = {2026},
author = {Gordon, M and Ramirez, P},
title = {The role of corticosteroids in severe viral pneumonia: lessons from COVID-19 and influenza.},
journal = {Pneumonia (Nathan Qld.)},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41782074},
issn = {2200-6133},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Corticosteroids have long been used as immunomodulatory agents in viral respiratory infections, but their role in influenza and COVID-19 remains controversial. While both diseases share overlapping pathogenic mechanisms involving hyperinflammation and immune dysregulation, clinical evidence suggests divergent outcomes in response to corticosteroid therapy. OBJECTIVE: This review critically examines the evidence regarding corticosteroid use in influenza and COVID-19, focusing on their impact on mortality, disease progression, and secondary infections. METHODS: A narrative review was conducted including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and major observational studies published between 2000 and 2025. Data were analyzed comparatively for influenza (seasonal and pandemic strains) and SARS-CoV-2 infection. RESULTS: In influenza, most studies associate corticosteroid administration—particularly at high doses or prolonged courses—with increased mortality, delayed viral clearance, and higher rates of secondary bacterial pneumonia. Conversely, in COVID-19, randomized trials such as RECOVERY demonstrated that low-to-moderate doses of dexamethasone significantly reduce mortality in patients requiring oxygen or mechanical ventilation, without clear benefit in mild disease. These opposing outcomes highlight the importance of timing, dosing, and patient selection, reflecting distinct immunopathological trajectories between the two infections. CONCLUSIONS: Corticosteroid therapy exerts context-dependent effects in viral pneumonia. While detrimental in most cases of influenza, it is beneficial in severe COVID-19 when guided by systemic inflammation. Future strategies should focus on personalized and real-time immune monitoring to tailor immunomodulatory interventions to each patient’s inflammatory and virological status.},
}

@article {pmid41782085,
year = {2026},
author = {Heugno, VJN and Kamdem, OL and Same, EGE and Lele, ECB and Biloa, YM and Ayina, CA and Guyot, J and Bongue, B and Mandengue, SH and Moukoko, CEE},
title = {Factors associated with long COVID in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41782085},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {ANRS283//ANRS - Agence Nationale de la Recherche / Emerging Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Comorbidity ; Sub-Saharan African People ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID is a condition characterized by persistent symptoms of COVID-19 that continue to occur in patients after apparent recovery. Given that, these symptoms may vary from person to person due to clinical, demographic, and genetic factors as well as comorbidities, our review aims to identify and analyze risk factors associated with persistent symptoms of COVID-19 (long COVID) in the specific context of sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS: Article searches were conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online (AJOL), Science Direct and Google Scholar databases using the keywords "long COVID" or "long-term COVID-19" or "post-COVID condition" or "post-acute sequelae of COVID-19" and "sub-Saharan Africa" or "sub-Saharan Africans". The obtained data were entered into software for duplication checking. Two reviewers selected and extracted the data. Due to substantial heterogeneity in definitions and study designs, a narrative synthesis approach was adopted. Fifteen studies were included in this review, totaling 8,233 participants previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, with approximately 2,011 patients with long COVID from six countries. Six studies were cross-sectional, three were retrospective, three were cohort studies, two were case-control, and one was a case report.

RESULTS: The review found that the prevalence of long COVID in sub-Saharan Africa ranged from 2% in Ghana to 66.7% in South Africa. The persistent COVID-19 symptoms most commonly experienced by people living in sub-Saharan Africa were fatigue (reported in 12 studies, 25-66% of patients), cough (7 studies, 9-86%), chest pain (9 studies, 9%-29%), dyspnea (10 studies, 15-45%), palpitations (4 studies, 10-30%), headache (9 studies, 12-38%), and cognitive impairment (6 studies, 8-20%). The main risk factors for the occurrence of persistent COVID-19 symptoms were older age (˃ 60 years), female sex, low education level, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, length of hospitalization during the acute episode, number of initial COVID-19 symptoms, and initial disease severity.

CONCLUSION: Long COVID is a reality in sub-Saharan Africa. Fatigue and hypertension have proven to be the most common symptom and risk factor, respectively. The heterogeneity of long COVID definitions across studies limits direct prevalence comparisons. Given the socio-economic challenges, pre-existing comorbidities and differences in health systems in the sub-Saharan region, it is therefore necessary to develop new strategies for care, rehabilitation and treatment (specific to the realities of the sub-Saharan region) targeted at each persistent symptom of COVID-19 in order to resolve this emerging problem and allow patients to have a good quality of life.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology
Risk Factors
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Comorbidity
Sub-Saharan African People
Female

@article {pmid41782288,
year = {2026},
author = {Ramklass, SS and Zhandire, T and Gordon, M},
title = {Pandemic preparedness and response among global healthcare workers using an interprofessional health practice framework: a scoping review protocol.},
journal = {Journal of interprofessional care},
volume = {40},
number = {3},
pages = {587-594},
doi = {10.1080/13561820.2026.2640469},
pmid = {41782288},
issn = {1469-9567},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Pandemics ; *Health Personnel/education ; Pandemic Preparedness ; Scoping Reviews as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Interprofessional Relations ; Cooperative Behavior ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant gaps in healthcare systems' preparedness and response capabilities including workforce coordination and collaborative practice. Although pandemic preparedness is often framed in terms of infrastructure and policy, the pandemic highlighted that health system responsiveness depends on how healthcare workers are educated and trained to collaborate, adapt, and make decisions. Healthcare workers operate within volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments, necessitating new approaches to education and practice. In this scoping review we will examine how health professional education and education-linked practice initiatives adapted to the VUCA conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular focus on interprofessional education and collaborative practice (IPECP) as a mechanism for strengthening pandemic response. Following JBI scoping review methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, seven electronic databases will be searched for literature published between January 2022 and 2025. Empirical studies examining educational adaptations and practice-embedded interprofessional strategies implemented during COVID-19 will be included. Two independent reviewers will conduct screening and data extraction, with findings synthesized narratively. IPECP and VUCA frameworks provide an analytical lens for examining identifying of educational and practice adaptations associated with coordinated healthcare responses. Findings are intended to enforce workforce resilience and future preparedness efforts. This protocol has been registered on OSF doi: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/A6F3D.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Pandemics
*Health Personnel/education
Pandemic Preparedness
Scoping Reviews as Topic
SARS-CoV-2
*Interprofessional Relations
Cooperative Behavior
Global Health

@article {pmid41782516,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, IJ and Tzeng, YS and Wu, SY and Chang, FC},
title = {Effect of Yoga Intervention for Health Care Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of integrative and complementary medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {27683605261419365},
doi = {10.1177/27683605261419365},
pmid = {41782516},
issn = {2768-3613},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health care workers (HCWs) faced unprecedented stress, anxiety, and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. Yoga, a mind-body practice combining physical postures, breathing, and meditation, has demonstrated benefits for mental and physical resilience. This systematic review evaluated the effectiveness of yoga interventions in addressing mental health challenges and promoting overall well-being among HCWs during the pandemic.

METHODS: This review adhered to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Comprehensive searches of PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL were conducted up to November 2024 using terms including "yoga," "COVID-19," and "health care workers." Eligible studies involved HCWs receiving yoga interventions compared with nonyoga controls. Outcomes included stress, anxiety, depression, sleep quality, and physiological parameters. Randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and observational studies were included. Quality assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (RoB 1.0). Certainty of evidence assessment was conducted with Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

RESULTS: Of 134 studies identified, 11 met the inclusion criteria. Participants included HCWs from India, Turkey, and the United States, with intervention durations ranging from 2 to 12 weeks. Yoga consistently reduced stress, anxiety, and depression, with improvements in sleep quality and quality of life. Physiological benefits included enhanced autonomic function and reduced levels of inflammatory markers. App-based and tailored yoga protocols showed potential for scalability and accessibility. The overall quality of the included studies was moderate.

CONCLUSION: Yoga interventions demonstrated significant benefits in mitigating mental health challenges and enhancing overall well-being in HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings underscore the value of yoga as a holistic support for HCWs in high-stress environments.},
}

@article {pmid41783149,
year = {2025},
author = {Lobukulu Lolimo, G and Khonde, R and Matondo, H and Kabele, J and Musawu K, Y and Beshah, SA and Achala, DM and Njeri Muriithi, G and Adote, ENA and Zegeye, EA and Mbachu, CO and Ataguba, JE and Yaya Bocoum, FIK and Manitu, SM},
title = {Reasons for hesitancy and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination among the Congolese population: a scoping review.},
journal = {Frontiers in health services},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {1647147},
pmid = {41783149},
issn = {2813-0146},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Despite over 9.6 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses administered globally, vaccination access remains highly unequal. North America and Western Europe have over 50% vaccination coverage, contrasting sharply with African nations, like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has under 10%. This scoping review explores the key factors contributing to the low COVID-19 vaccination rate in the Congolese population.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review using the Arksey and O'Malley framework, searching PubMed, ProQuest, and Scopus databases for peer-reviewed manuscripts published between 2019 and 2023. Six studies met the inclusion criteria, and focused on the factors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance, hesitancy, and access in the DRC.

RESULTS: Although surveys indicated a high willingness on the part of the people to get vaccinated, only 2.7% of the population were fully vaccinated. The primary barrier to vaccination was safety concerns, specifically, perceptions of the vaccine as new and experimental (84.4%) and fear of side effects (83.3%). Additional hesitancy factors included mistrust in vaccine effectiveness (60.4%) and a general lack of confidence (60.0%). Facilitators of acceptance included prior family vaccination, perceived risk of infection, belief in the existence of the virus, and awareness of vaccination strategies. Sociodemographic factors such as being a healthcare professional or male also positively influenced uptake.

DISCUSSION: These findings highlight the gap between vaccine willingness and actual coverage in the DRC. Addressing safety concerns and building trust through targeted outreach, especially among key professional groups, may improve vaccine acceptance and equity.},
}

@article {pmid41783176,
year = {2026},
author = {Horowitz, MA and Sussman, JH and Zomalan, B and Rendler, J and Singh, A and Birouty, N and Seaton, M and Patel, S and Gendreau, JL and Abraham, ME},
title = {Vagus nerve stimulation: An update of currently registered clinical trials on ClinicalTrials.gov.},
journal = {Surgical neurology international},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {64},
pmid = {41783176},
issn = {2229-5097},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is currently approved for conditions such as drug-resistant epilepsy and stroke with promising results. In addition, it is also being investigated for many other conditions. The goal of this study is to review the scope of VNS clinical trials.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of active and completed clinical trials using ClinicalTrials.gov, with "Vagus Nerve Stimulation" as the search term. The number of studies taking place over time was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficient.

RESULTS: An examination of ClinicalTrials.gov revealed 440 clinical trials, with 346 meeting our inclusion criteria. The number of VNS clinical trials increased annually from 2000 to 2024, demonstrating exponential growth after 2015 (P < 0.001, R[2] = 0.924). Of these, 42.5% were completed, with published results being available for 9.8% of the completed trials. Completed trials were predominantly from the United States, spanning various conditions including a wide variety of disorders such as cardiovascular diseases (n = 38), chronic pain disorders (n = 31), gastrointestinal disorders (n = 24), autoimmune disorders (n = 23), neurodegenerative diseases (n = 19), COVID-19 (n = 13) and diabetes (n = 11). Among the included trials, 86% were non-invasive with 91% of trials with results reporting improvements in symptoms.

CONCLUSION: This increasing number of trials assessing a wide breadth of clinical disorders suggests the promising future of VNS as from the currently approved treatments. Physicians should familiarize themselves with these results and potentially upcoming indications for VNS.},
}

@article {pmid41783454,
year = {2026},
author = {Washif, JA and Trabelsi, K and Pagaduan, J and Perreras, MSL and Moussa-Chamari, I and Yousfi, N and Pyne, DB and Chamari, K},
title = {Changes in physical fitness and body composition of athletes after the COVID-19 lockdown: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression, with assessment of the certainty of evidence.},
journal = {Biology of sport},
volume = {43},
number = {},
pages = {463-488},
pmid = {41783454},
issn = {0860-021X},
abstract = {This systematic review with meta-analysis analysed the effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on physical fitness and body composition in athletes. A comprehensive search was conducted in three databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus) up to January 2025 (included). Studies were included based on PICO criteria, involving adult athletes, original articles, and any quantitative assessment of physical fitness and/or body composition conducted within one month before and two weeks after the lockdown. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was used to assess the risk of bias, while the Cochrane Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach evaluated the certainty of evidence. A total of 14 studies (261 athletes) with a low risk of bias met the inclusion criteria. Narrative synthesis revealed that the effects of lockdowns on athletes' physical fitness and body composition were varied, with consistent impairments (e.g., endurance-related fitness), relative stability (e.g., body mass, CMJ height, maximal strength), and mixed results (e.g., sprinting). A meta-analysis of 11 studies indicated a non-significant effect of lockdown on body mass (effect size [ES]=-0.115, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.214 to 0.164, P=0.797). Similarly, 10 studies showed a variable, non-significant reduction in CMJ height (ES=-0.303, 95% CI -0.655 to 0.045, P=0.097). However, CMJ relative peak power (six studies) demonstrated a trivial-small negative effect (ES=-0.199, 95% CI -0.341 to -0.058, P=0.019). These findings should be interpreted with caution as the certainty of evidence was very low. While evidence remains limited, targeted and individualised training might help mitigate some of the detraining effects observed during a lockdown, particularly in endurance-related fitness outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41783584,
year = {2026},
author = {Oesterle, TS and Bormann, NL},
title = {Digital Therapies for Substance Use Disorders: Recent Advances and Engagement Strategies.},
journal = {Substance abuse and rehabilitation},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {560350},
pmid = {41783584},
issn = {1179-8467},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Substance use disorders (SUDs) are highly prevalent, chronic conditions that often go untreated. Technology-driven interventions, including digital therapeutics, web-based programs, and mobile applications, have expanded treatment access. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital approaches, and national policy calls for enhanced use of telehealth and app-based recovery support. However, user engagement with SUD apps remains a challenge.

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review summarizes evidence on digital interventions for SUDs, emphasizing mobile apps. It examines what differentiates effective interventions, drawing on insights from the broader context of general mobile app use. It also proposes strategies to enhance engagement in digital therapeutics.

METHODS: We reviewed the literature (2013-2025) on SUD digital interventions, including randomized trials, systematic reviews, and large observational studies of SUD-focused apps. Key findings on clinical efficacy and engagement were extracted, along with examining engagement tactics from mobile gaming and other app domains to inform potential improvements.

RESULTS: Several apps have demonstrated efficacy in reducing substance use or supporting abstinence, particularly those that integrate evidence-based therapy content, provide personalized feedback, offer craving-management tools, and facilitate connectivity to peer or clinician support. In contrast, apps with minimal interactive content often show no added benefit. A major barrier is sustaining user engagement, as many SUD apps experience a steep drop-off in use after the initial download. Strategies such as gamification, contingency management (utilizing incentives), social networking features, and integration with ongoing care can significantly enhance engagement. Early data suggest that blending these strategies into SUD apps yields higher retention and better clinical results.

CONCLUSION: Mobile apps are emerging as valuable adjuncts for SUD treatment, but their real-world impact depends on users' engagement with compelling content. By incorporating tangible rewards, personalized and timely interventions, social support, and provider involvement, digital therapies for SUDs enhance engagement and, consequently, improve long-term recovery outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41783665,
year = {2025},
author = {Giri, B and Gurung, M and Adnani, QES and Chattu, VK},
title = {Mental Health of Nepalese Migrant Workers: A Call for Action in South Korea.},
journal = {JNMA; journal of the Nepal Medical Association},
volume = {63},
number = {288},
pages = {636-640},
pmid = {41783665},
issn = {1815-672X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Transients and Migrants/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Nepal/ethnology ; COVID-19 ; *Mental Health ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/psychology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {Mental health problems among migrants is a serious issue around the globe. Nepalese migrant workers in South Korea are facing serious mental health problem that affects not only the people involved but also the society at large. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already dire mental health situation of Nepali workers. Global health diplomacy can be a key factor in addressing mental health by engaging actors from various domains to evaluate mental health in global health priorities. This article reviews the current state of mental health and discusses the recent development in mental health among Nepalese migrant workers in South Korea.},
}

Humans
*Transients and Migrants/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Nepal/ethnology
COVID-19
*Mental Health
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
Pandemics
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/psychology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41784841,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, C and Evangelista, JF and Vidal, AKN and Islamuddin, M and Chen, Y and Xu, D and Qin, X},
title = {The emerging role of TLR7-mediated signaling in respiratory viral infections and autoimmune diseases.},
journal = {Cellular and molecular life sciences : CMLS},
volume = {83},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41784841},
issn = {1420-9071},
support = {165265/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; 962950//American Heart Association/ ; 165265/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is a key endosomal sensor that detects single-stranded RNA, linking innate and adaptive immunity through the induction of type I interferons and proinflammatory cytokines. Recent studies have underscored the pivotal role of TLR7 in shaping immune responses to respiratory viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza A virus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as in the pathogenesis of systemic autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can be triggered by the respiratory viral infections. In COVID-19, TLR7 deficiency is associated with severe disease, particularly in males, due to impaired interferon responses and antibody production. In influenza, TLR7 enhances humoral and cytotoxic responses, though its overactivation may contribute to immunopathology. The role of TLR7 in RSV remains controversial, with both protective and detrimental effects reported depending on host and experimental context. In contrast, TLR7 plays a pathogenic role in SLE by amplifying type I interferon signaling and promoting autoreactive B cell activation. This review synthesizes current knowledge on TLR7-mediated signaling across these diseases, highlighting its context-dependent functions and dualistic nature in immunity and disease. We will discuss mechanistic insights, clinical relevance, and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting TLR7, emphasizing the need for precision modulation of this pathway in the treatment of viral infections and autoimmune disorders.},
}

@article {pmid41785015,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhou, S and Kwizera, R and Bongomin, F and Okema, L and Okot, J and Alcanzo, EM and Ekeng, BE and Kang, Y and Denning, DW and de Hoog, S and Ahmed, SA},
title = {Global distribution of fungal rhinosinusitis.},
journal = {Rhinology},
volume = {64},
number = {3},
pages = {301-311},
pmid = {41785015},
issn = {0300-0729},
mesh = {Humans ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; *Mycoses/epidemiology ; *Rhinosinusitis/epidemiology/microbiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS) comprises subtypes with varying epidemiology and outcomes. Global comparative data remain limited.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines (CRD42023481670), a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. Cases were categorized into seven subtypes to assess variation across regions.

RESULTS: 2,031 studies (40,860 cases, 77 countries) were included. Non-invasive forms accounted for 60% (n=24,582) of cases, mainly fungal ball (35%, n=14,280) and allergic FRS (25%, n=10,302). Invasive subtypes were more frequent in tropical climates, with the hyperacute rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis predominating. This subtype differed from acute and subacute invasive FRS in risk factors (diabetes and COVID-19 vs. leukemia) and geography. Aspergillus species appeared in ~60% of cases: A. fumigatus dominated in temperate/continental zones, while A. flavus was frequent in dry/tropical regions. Non-invasive FRS showed high surgical cure rates (>64%), whereas invasive forms had substantial morbidity and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS: FRS represents a substantial yet underrecognized global health concern. Non-invasive forms are predominating, while invasive subtypes cause major morbidity and mortality, especially in tropical regions. Notably, our findings reveal distinct geographic and climatic preferences for Aspergillus species: A. fumigatus in temperate/continental zones and A. flavus in dry/tropical regions. This ecological divergence underscores the importance of environmental surveillance and climate-informed diagnostic strategies.},
}

Humans
*Global Health/statistics & numerical data
*Mycoses/epidemiology
*Rhinosinusitis/epidemiology/microbiology

@article {pmid41785785,
year = {2026},
author = {Gonzalez, A},
title = {From evidence gaps to action: Strengthening surveillance, research and social safety nets to address child maltreatment.},
journal = {Child abuse & neglect},
volume = {174},
number = {},
pages = {107971},
doi = {10.1016/j.chiabu.2026.107971},
pmid = {41785785},
issn = {1873-7757},
mesh = {Humans ; *Child Abuse/prevention & control/statistics & numerical data ; COVID-19 ; Child ; Pandemics ; Evidence Gaps ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Population Surveillance/methods ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic increased risk factors for family violence, including economic hardship, caregiver stress, social isolation, and service disruptions. Despite extensive research over the past five years, evidence remains mixed on whether child maltreatment rates increased, decreased, or remained stable. This commentary synthesizes emerging findings, specifically highlighting two recent reviews in this special issue. Recommendations are suggested on ways to strengthen surveillance ecosystems that integrate administrative data and population-based surveys to generate timely, comprehensive, and actionable information. Equally important is sustained investment in social safety nets, such as income supports, housing programs, and paid family leave, which have demonstrated protective effects in both crisis and non-crisis contexts. Strengthening these systems is critical to a prevention-focused public health approach that protects children's safety and well-being.},
}

Humans
*Child Abuse/prevention & control/statistics & numerical data
COVID-19
Child
Pandemics
Evidence Gaps
SARS-CoV-2
*Population Surveillance/methods
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41786461,
year = {2026},
author = {Caffrey, M and Paprotny, I and Smith, R},
title = {Challenges and progress toward real-time detection of airborne viral pathogens.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biotechnology},
volume = {46},
number = {4},
pages = {694-706},
doi = {10.1080/07388551.2026.2628597},
pmid = {41786461},
issn = {1549-7801},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Air Microbiology ; *Viruses/isolation & purification ; *Virus Diseases/virology ; Swine ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Airborne viruses pose significant health, social and economic threats to humans and animals. Moreover, zoonotic transfer of viruses among animals and humans is a concern. Detection methods to identify viruses present in air before causing outbreaks in humans or agricultural animals is highly desirable. In this review we discuss airborne viruses that currently threaten humans and the agricultural industry and the possibility of emerging and reemerging viruses. Examples of airborne viruses threatening human health include influenza and SARS-CoV2; examples of airborne viruses threatening agricultural animals include: influenza, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV), Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV), and Foot and Mouth Disease virus (FMDV). In addition, we discuss the potential of real-time detection of airborne viruses with a focus on current models, desired properties, current techniques, challenges, and progress to date. Finally, we discuss possible mitigation strategies and future opportunities.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Air Microbiology
*Viruses/isolation & purification
*Virus Diseases/virology
Swine
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41788251,
year = {2025},
author = {Marsh, D},
title = {Daily profile of COVID-19 infections in Europe - a biophysical perspective.},
journal = {Biophysical reviews},
volume = {17},
number = {6},
pages = {1717-1734},
pmid = {41788251},
issn = {1867-2450},
abstract = {Progression of the European COVID-19 pandemic is monitored using daily cases and associated deaths, reported in Italy, Germany and England. Weekly periodicity in reporting is filtered out with a moving average over a 7-day window. This reveals underlying stages of exponential growth and decay, and changes in response to preventative interventions. Exponential rate constants r t , combined with different serial-interval distributions, yield estimates for the basic reproduction number R0 and instantaneous R t , and characterize the emergence of successive dominant viral variants. Rates of testing are discussed in detail, and corrected for. COVID-associated deaths are linked with daily cases, and fatality/case ratios (cfr) used to estimate the extent of under-reporting in the early stages. Reproduction numbers, R0 and R t , provide estimates of vaccine coverage required to reach population-level immunity, and subsequent modifications needed during the vaccination programme. Hence, we obtain a straightforward integrated description of the pandemic that is essentially biophysical.},
}

@article {pmid41788334,
year = {2026},
author = {Jiang, S and Yuan, J and Li, Q and Song, Z and Cao, L and Song, Z and Zhang, X},
title = {The structure and function of membrane protein in coronavirus infection and its applications in the development of vaccines and therapeutic drugs.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1762041},
pmid = {41788334},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Coronaviruses have long posed significant harm to human and animal health, causing a variety of diseases. The membrane (M) protein of coronaviruses is one of the four major structural proteins and a key component of the viral structure, playing an important role in viral assembly, budding, and immunomodulation. In this paper, we systematically reviewe the structural and functional characteristics of the M protein, including its three transmembrane domains, N-terminal glycosylation and C-terminal oligomerization domain. In terms of function, we focus on the mechanistic roles of the M protein in viral envelope formation and the nucleocapsid packaging, as well as the newly discovered immune evasion strategy of regulating host innate immune signaling pathways. In addition, we also summarize the applications of M protein in preventing and controlling coronavirus infection and mitigating its adverse effects.},
}

@article {pmid41788535,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, X and Li, H and Li, T and Zhong, S},
title = {Integrating ethics into infectious disease graduate training: a multidimensional framework for public health practice.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1744330},
pmid = {41788535},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Public Health Practice/ethics ; *Education, Medical, Graduate ; COVID-19 ; *Communicable Diseases ; Curriculum ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Public Health/ethics/education ; *Education, Graduate ; Digital Health ; },
abstract = {Through a narrative review and synthesis of the global status of Infectious Disease Ethics (IDE) education, this paper proposes positioning IDE as a core competency in graduate training and constructs a three-dimensional integrated model of "Theory-Practice-Assessment." Drawing on the experience of the OPENING project by the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), it emphasizes that the ethical framework must adapt to the paradigm shifts brought about by emerging technologies such as genomics. This model not only addresses the gaps in IDE education exposed by COVID-19 but also provides solutions to ethical challenges in fields like digital health and precision medicine, offering a practical pathway for the reform of global infectious disease graduate education.},
}

Humans
*Public Health Practice/ethics
*Education, Medical, Graduate
COVID-19
*Communicable Diseases
Curriculum
SARS-CoV-2
*Public Health/ethics/education
*Education, Graduate
Digital Health

@article {pmid41788871,
year = {2025},
author = {Bouchaala, K and Bahloul, M and Bradai, S and Ammar, R and Hamida, CB},
title = {[Effect of awake prone positioning in non-intubated patients with community-acquired pneumonia complicated by hypoxemia].},
journal = {Medecine tropicale et sante internationale},
volume = {5},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41788871},
issn = {2778-2034},
mesh = {Humans ; Prone Position ; *Community-Acquired Pneumonia/complications/therapy ; COVID-19/complications ; *Hypoxia/therapy/etiology ; Wakefulness ; *Patient Positioning/methods ; *Pneumonia, Viral/complications/therapy ; Community-Acquired Infections/complications ; Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy/etiology ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Several studies have suggested that the early use of awake prone positioning (PP) in patients with acute respiratory failure due to severe community-acquired pneumonia, hemodynamically stable and alert, may improve oxygenation and avoid the need for invasive mechanical ventilation. PP may also help reduce case fatality rate (CFR). The benefits of PP for oxygen-dependent patients hospitalized with non-intubated acute respiratory failure due to SARS-CoV-2 infection have been evaluated. We reviewed the literature to determine if PP could improve hypoxemia and signs of acute respiratory failure in patients with community-acquired or non-community-acquired pneumonia, reduce the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, and reduce CFRin patients with Covid-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched with Medline for articles published in French or English containing the keywords "acute respiratory failure" or "acute respiratory distress" and "prone position."Results/Conclusion. Turning into prone position is a simple, inexpensive, and effective technique that improves the prognosis of patients with respiratory distress due to severe community-acquired pneumonia, regardless of the cause. This technique can be easily implemented in low-and middle-income countries, particularly in North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and South America.},
}

Humans
Prone Position
*Community-Acquired Pneumonia/complications/therapy
COVID-19/complications
*Hypoxia/therapy/etiology
Wakefulness
*Patient Positioning/methods
*Pneumonia, Viral/complications/therapy
Community-Acquired Infections/complications
Respiratory Insufficiency/therapy/etiology
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41789521,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, W and Htike, WYM and Kam, YW},
title = {Quantifying the evidence and burden of smoking behaviour on tuberculosis incidence among adult population: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {04079},
pmid = {41789521},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; Incidence ; China/epidemiology ; *Tuberculosis/epidemiology ; *Smoking/epidemiology/adverse effects ; Risk Factors ; Adult ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge in China and worldwide, with smoking being a key modifiable risk factor. Given China's large population and rising smoking rates, this paper aims to examine the link between smoking and TB incidence.

METHODS: We systematically searched six databases from inception for studies reporting smoking exposure, TB outcomes, and smoker-non-smoker comparisons. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed bias. We analysed smoking-TB associations using random-effects meta-analysis of odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs).

RESULTS: We included 17 studies reporting ORs and 7 studies reporting HRs in the quantitative synthesis. The pooled OR for TB incidence among smokers compared with non-smokers was 1.77 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.29-2.43), indicating a statistically significant increase in risk of TB. For studies reporting hazard ratios, the pooled estimate was 2.39 (95% CI = 1.28-4.45), showing a significant association between smoking and increased TB incidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Both active and passive smoking significantly elevate the risk of TB and worsen its outcomes in China. Our result indicate that COVID-19 pandemic may have indirectly exacerbated smoking-related risks through disruptions to TB services, heightened psychosocial stress, and shifts in smoking behaviours, with potential implications for TB risk and outcomes. Thus, integrating smoking cessation strategies into TB programmes, focusing on heavy smokers in especially high-prevalence areas, and raising public awareness could enhance efforts to prevent and control TB worldwide.

REGISTRATION: PROSPERO: CRD420251070123.},
}

Humans
Incidence
China/epidemiology
*Tuberculosis/epidemiology
*Smoking/epidemiology/adverse effects
Risk Factors
Adult
COVID-19/epidemiology