@article {pmid41754057,
year = {2026},
author = {Malik, Z and Skapetis, T},
title = {A Contemporary Mini-Review of Interprofessional Education and Technology-Assisted Management of Dental Emergencies in the Emergency Department.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754057},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dental emergencies are increasing in frequency. Numerous studies have reported minimal knowledge and/or skills by emergency department staff regarding dental emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted a paradigm shift in emergency dental care management away from traditional management approaches. However, there have been no reviews of contemporary literature pertaining to either technology-assisted or interprofessional education and dental emergency management in the emergency department setting. This mini-review aimed to synthesise current evidence of interprofessional education, utilising technology-assisted modalities, for the management of dental emergencies in hospital emergency departments.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was carried out across four electronic databases, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Google Scholar from 2018 to 2025.

RESULTS: A total of three papers were identified and included in the mini-review. Two of the three papers addressed the subject of dental emergencies in the emergency department as a primary finding.

DISCUSSION: Included papers were of low-quality evidence and referenced simulation-based education, tele-dentistry, and artificial intelligence as contemporary approaches relating to dental emergency management.

CONCLUSIONS: This mini-review revealed minimal advances in contemporary approaches relating to both the use of technology-assisted modalities and interprofessional education for the management of dental emergencies within the hospital emergency department setting. This review provides a timely literature update for both the medical and dental professions and identifies a large gap in research surrounding this topic.},
}

@article {pmid41754151,
year = {2026},
author = {Caliman-Sturdza, OA and Gheorghita, RE and Soldanescu, I and Dimian, M and Mangul, S},
title = {Vitamin D in Infectious Diseases: A Narrative Review Focusing on COVID-19, Long COVID, and Influenza.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {18},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754151},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamin D/therapeutic use/blood/administration & dosage/analogs & derivatives ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; *Influenza, Human/immunology/drug therapy ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/immunology/complications/drug therapy ; Dietary Supplements ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Immunity, Innate/drug effects ; Vitamins ; },
abstract = {Vitamin D is a secosteroid hormone traditionally recognized for its role in bone and mineral metabolism, but it is increasingly understood to also function as an important immunomodulator influencing susceptibility to and outcomes of infectious diseases. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on the immunological, clinical, and preventive effects of vitamin D in the context of novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (long COVID), and influenza. Mechanistically, vitamin D enhances innate immune defenses through the induction of antimicrobial peptides, including cathelicidin and defensins, and modulates adaptive immunity by suppressing maladaptive Th1/Th17 responses while promoting regulatory T-cell activity. Observational studies have frequently associated vitamin D deficiency with more severe COVID-19 outcomes; however, these associations may be influenced by confounding factors and reverse causality. Some meta-analyses suggest that vitamin D supplementation reduced rates of intensive care unit admission and ventilatory support, particularly among older adults and individuals with low baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations. Emerging evidence also indicates that inadequate vitamin D status may be associated with an increased risk and symptom burden of long COVID, although causality has not been established. In the case of influenza, a limited number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses report a modest but statistically significant reduction in infection risk, especially with daily or weekly vitamin D supplementation in populations with low baseline vitamin D levels. Clinical guidelines consistently recommend maintaining adequate vitamin D status for general health but do not endorse high-dose vitamin D as a treatment for COVID-19 due to inconsistent trial findings. Overall, vitamin D should not be considered a standalone therapeutic agent; rather, maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels represents a low-risk, potentially beneficial strategy to support immune resilience against respiratory viral infections.},
}

Humans
*Vitamin D/therapeutic use/blood/administration & dosage/analogs & derivatives
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
*Influenza, Human/immunology/drug therapy
*Vitamin D Deficiency/immunology/complications/drug therapy
Dietary Supplements
SARS-CoV-2
Immunity, Innate/drug effects
Vitamins

@article {pmid41754526,
year = {2026},
author = {Siniscalchi, C and Basaglia, M and Imbalzano, E and Di Micco, P},
title = {The Platelet-Virus Axis in Human Disease.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754526},
issn = {1999-4915},
mesh = {Humans ; *Blood Platelets/virology/immunology ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; COVID-19/immunology ; Platelet Activation ; Thrombosis/virology ; },
abstract = {Platelets have traditionally been viewed as passive cellular elements involved in hemostasis and vascular integrity. However, growing evidence over the last decade has radically changed this paradigm, revealing platelets as dynamic immune and inflammatory effectors that actively participate in host-pathogen interactions. In viral infections, platelets are not merely innocent bystanders but represent key players in a bidirectional and tightly regulated platelet-virus axis that influences viral dissemination, immune activation, endothelial dysfunction, and the development of thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications. Several clinically relevant viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza virus, HIV, dengue virus, and viral hemorrhagic fever-associated pathogens, have been shown to directly or indirectly interact with platelets through surface receptors, immune complexes, and inflammatory mediators, leading to platelet activation, phenotypic reprogramming, and accelerated clearance. These processes contribute to the paradoxical coexistence of thrombocytopenia and hypercoagulability that characterizes many severe viral diseases. Moreover, platelets can act as immune sentinels by sensing viral components, releasing cytokines and chemokines, forming platelet-leukocyte aggregates, and modulating both innate and adaptive immune responses, thereby shaping the clinical course of infection. In this review, we synthesize current evidence on the molecular and cellular mechanisms governing virus-platelet interactions, with particular emphasis on their role in immune-thrombosis, endothelial injury, and organ dysfunction. We further discuss the clinical implications of platelet dysregulation in viral infections, including its potential value as a biomarker of disease severity and as a therapeutic target. Understanding the platelet-virus axis provides a unifying framework to explain the thrombo-inflammatory phenotype of viral diseases and may open new avenues for risk stratification and targeted interventions in affected patients.},
}

Humans
*Blood Platelets/virology/immunology
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
*Virus Diseases/immunology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/physiology
COVID-19/immunology
Platelet Activation
Thrombosis/virology

@article {pmid41754548,
year = {2026},
author = {Deák, G and Lupu, L and Prangate, R},
title = {A Systematic Review of Methodological Approaches to SARS-CoV-2 Wastewater Surveillance.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754548},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {Support to Member States for the establishment of national systems, local collection points and digital infrastructure for the monitoring of COVID-19 and its variants in wastewater-Romania//This work was supported by the European Commission DG Environment [060701/2021/864662/SUB/ENV]. C2] Emergency Support under Council Regulation (EU) 2016/369 as amended by Council Regulation (EU) 2020/521/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/genetics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis ; *Wastewater/virology ; RNA, Viral/isolation & purification/genetics ; *Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring ; },
abstract = {Following the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers have increasingly focused on monitoring the spread of the virus and improving methods to detect changes in the SARS-CoV-2 genome. Although clinical surveillance provides direct and reliable results, it has limited applicability. Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) has therefore emerged as a valuable, non-invasive complementary tool for disease surveillance. It provides a comprehensive picture of virus circulation in a population, including asymptomatic individuals and those who do not seek healthcare. In addition, it facilitates early detection of outbreaks and the collection of epidemiologic data at the community level. However, WBE also presents technical challenges, including variations in sampling and testing protocols, the presence of inhibitors that affect viral RNA extraction, and the need for standardised procedures between studies. These challenges should be addressed for possible future infectious disease outbreaks. One of the challenges facing researchers was to develop efficient methods that could overcome the extraction and detection problems related to inhibitors present in wastewater. To this aim, this systematic review highlights the potential use of WBE, the variety of techniques, and the most effective methods for the detection and quantification of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater samples. A reproducible electronic search of the literature was conducted in the Web of Science (WoS) and PubMed databases for articles published between 2020 and 2024. Our search revealed that the majority of observed WBE applications emphasised a correlation between SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentration trends in wastewater and epidemiological data. Another relevant issue that the articles often discussed and compared was the techniques used in different steps of sample processing, such as sample collection, concentration and detection, hence the lack of standardised procedures. This paper provides a framework regarding previous research on WBE to gain a better understanding that will lead to functional solutions.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/genetics
*COVID-19/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis
*Wastewater/virology
RNA, Viral/isolation & purification/genetics
*Wastewater-Based Epidemiological Monitoring

@article {pmid41754590,
year = {2026},
author = {De Stefanis, S and Colavita, F and Maggi, F and Antonioli, M},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Persistence and the Gut Microbiota: New Insights into Long COVID Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754590},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {Ricerca Corrente Linea 1 - Progetto 1 to IRCCS INMI L. Spallanzani//Ministero della Salute/ ; Ricerca di Ateneo 2024- Dipartimento di Biologia (AutoCuRC)//University of Rome Tor Vergata/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Dysbiosis ; Pandemics ; Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology/virology ; Inflammatory Bowel Diseases ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {In December 2019, the world experienced the emergence of a new virus, SARS-CoV-2, which caused the 2020 pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19, primarily affecting the respiratory system, as well as the gastrointestinal tract. Remarkably, one in eight COVID-19 patients develops Long COVID, which is linked to SARS-CoV-2 persistence in the gastrointestinal tract, resulting in chronic inflammation and microbiota dysregulation. Given that gut microbiota dysbiosis plays a pivotal role in antiviral defense and gastrointestinal conditions, here we examine emerging evidence on how persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to the aetiology of enteric disorders. In particular, we emphasise the intricate connection between chronic inflammation caused by persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease) and the possible development of diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Dysbiosis
Pandemics
Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology/virology
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Inflammation

@article {pmid41754983,
year = {2026},
author = {Anaya, BJ and Osorio-Vargas, E and Monterrosa-Moreno, S and Tirado, DF and González-Burgos, E and Serrano, DR},
title = {Pulmonary Drug Delivery for Infectious Diseases: Cutting-Edge Formulations and Manufacturing Technologies.},
journal = {Pharmaceutics},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754983},
issn = {1999-4923},
support = {PID2024-156769OB-I00//Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades/ ; 971089//universidad complutense de Madrid/ ; Call No. 885 of 2020//Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnología e Innovación/ ; },
abstract = {Pulmonary drug delivery has emerged as a powerful strategy for the treatment of respiratory infectious diseases, including bacterial, fungal, and viral infections such as influenza and COVID-19, by enabling high local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic exposure. However, the clinical success of inhaled anti-infective therapies critically depends on the precise engineering of particle properties that govern lung deposition, cellular targeting, and therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we provide a comprehensive and technology-driven overview of cutting-edge formulation and manufacturing strategies for pulmonary drug delivery, with particular emphasis on the key process and formulation parameters required to generate effective inhalable systems for the treatment of infectious diseases. Advanced particle-engineering approaches, including spray drying, spray freeze drying, jet milling, and supercritical fluid technologies are discussed as enabling tools to tightly control aerodynamic particle size, morphology, and solid-state properties. In parallel, emerging platforms such as nanoparticle-based delivery systems are examined for their ability to target specific lung cell populations, including epithelial cells and alveolar macrophages, thereby enhancing antimicrobial efficacy. Finally, innovative manufacturing concepts such as microfluidics and three-dimensional (3D) printing are highlighted as promising strategies to improve particle size uniformity, reproducibility, and formulation customization. By integrating formulation science with advanced manufacturing technologies, this review identifies the critical design and processing parameters that underpin effective pulmonary delivery of anti-infective therapies and outlines future directions for the development of next-generation inhaled treatments.},
}

@article {pmid41755466,
year = {2026},
author = {Zang, N and Wu, Y and Li, P and Liu, Y and Wang, S and Leng, J and Zhan, L and Lyu, X and Pang, L and Wang, J},
title = {Viral Pathogens and Pulmonary Fibrosis: EMT-Driven Mechanisms and Insights From Traditional Chinese Medicine.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70118},
pmid = {41755466},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/drug effects ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional ; Signal Transduction ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; COVID-19/virology/complications ; *Virus Diseases/virology/complications/drug therapy ; *Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology/drug therapy/pathology ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a serious progressive complication of the respiratory system, which is profoundly associated with persistent extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, fibrosis, and disrupted tissue regeneration. Emerging evidence shows that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) acts as a key factor in the pathogenesis of this idiopathic interstitial lung disease by connecting long-lasting epithelial damage to fibroblast accumulation and fibrotic processes. Viral pathogens, particularly emerging and re-emerging viruses, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Influenza Virus, and Dengue Virus (DENV) and also those with oncogenic potential such as Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV), have been demonstrated to be significantly associated with impaired epithelial signalling, persistent inflammation, and EMT induction. This underscores the presence of potential mechanistic overlap between viral infections and fibrotic complications of the respiratory system. On the other hand, investigations have also suggested the capacity of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) agents to modulate various EMT-linked pathways, which are simultaneously involved in both viral infections and IPF development. These common signalling pathways include TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, PI3K/AKT, and NF-κB signalling, acting as potential therapeutic targets against fibrotic complications such as IPF. The present review aims to comprehensively describe current evidence on the dynamic cross-talk between viral pathogens, particularly SARS-CoV-2, Influenza Virus, and DENV, EMT, and lung fibrosis. Additionally, it critically discusses how TCM-derived bioactive agents can interfere with these interconnected processes. This review elucidates the mechanistic basis and therapeutic potential of TCM compounds in lung fibrosis, considering the wider context of virus-related EMT dysregulation.},
}

Humans
*Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition/drug effects
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional
Signal Transduction
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
COVID-19/virology/complications
*Virus Diseases/virology/complications/drug therapy
*Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology/drug therapy/pathology
*Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology
Animals

@article {pmid41755747,
year = {2026},
author = {Zuccotti, G and Sassi, R and Vertemati, M and Calcaterra, V},
title = {Advances in pediatrics: new technologies in clinical practice.},
journal = {La Pediatria medica e chirurgica : Medical and surgical pediatrics},
volume = {48},
number = {1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4081/pmc.2026.380},
pmid = {41755747},
issn = {2420-7748},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pediatrics/trends/methods ; *Telemedicine/trends ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Digital Health ; Artificial Intelligence ; Child ; },
abstract = {Over the past decades, digital innovation has profoundly transformed pediatric care, promoting more integrated, personalized, and continuous models of assistance across hospital, community, and home settings. This contribution explores the impact of three key technological domains: telemedicine, virtual and augmented reality, and artificial intelligence. Telemedicine has expanded access to healthcare services, improved monitoring of chronic conditions, and strengthened communication between healthcare professionals and families. Its rapid development during the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated its value in ensuring continuity of care and supporting vulnerable pediatric populations. Virtual and augmented reality offer new possibilities in surgical planning, medical training, rehabilitation, and psychological support, helping reduce anxiety and pain during procedures while enhancing understanding of clinical pathways. Artificial intelligence enables the analysis of large volumes of clinical and behavioral data, supporting early diagnosis, predictive modeling, and personalized clinical decision-making. Despite these opportunities, the integration of emerging technologies into pediatric practice requires careful attention to ethical, organizational, and educational issues, including data security, equitable access, and professional training. Overall, digital technologies are reshaping pediatrics toward more accessible, efficient, family-centered care.},
}

Humans
*Pediatrics/trends/methods
*Telemedicine/trends
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Digital Health
Artificial Intelligence
Child

@article {pmid41756288,
year = {2026},
author = {Guan, C and Zhang, R and Zhao, P and Zhang, Y and Yu, L and Cui, H and Jiang, L and Wu, T and Liu, F and Wu, Y and Huang, L and Nan, H and Wang, J and Xu, P},
title = {Association between vaccination and myasthenia gravis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1739730},
pmid = {41756288},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Myasthenia Gravis/immunology/epidemiology ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by fluctuating muscle weakness due to impaired neuromuscular transmission. Vaccination remains a cornerstone of infectious disease prevention, yet concerns persist regarding potential autoimmune exacerbation in susceptible individuals. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize available evidence on the association between vaccination and MG, evaluating both vaccine effectiveness and safety in this population.

METHODS: Observational studies in cohort or case-control formats were identified through systematic searches of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, SinoMed, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases from inception to June 24, 2025. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models based on heterogeneity. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger's test.

RESULTS: Five studies encompassing 27,193 participants (22,618 vaccinated and 4,575 unvaccinated) met inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis demonstrated a significant protective effect of vaccination against COVID-19 infection (fixed-effects model: OR = 0.23, 95% CI [0.20-0.26], P < 0.001). Conversely, vaccination was not associated with a statistically significant increase in MG exacerbation (random-effects model: OR = 0.67, 95% CI [0.10-4.54], P = 0.68).

CONCLUSIONS: This study provides quantitative evidence that COVID-19 vaccination effectively reduces infection risk without significantly increasing MG exacerbation. These findings support the safety and clinical utility of vaccination in MG patients, emphasizing the need for individualized risk-benefit assessment and ongoing pharmacovigilance in this population.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420251078995.},
}

Humans
*Myasthenia Gravis/immunology/epidemiology
*Vaccination/adverse effects
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Vaccine Efficacy

@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 Infections/immunology/epidemiology/microbiology/diagnosis/virology ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Adaptive Immunity ; *Pneumonia/immunology/epidemiology/microbiology/diagnosis/virology ; Biomarkers ; Streptococcus pneumoniae/immunology ; Community-Acquired Pneumonia ; },
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 Infections/immunology/epidemiology/microbiology/diagnosis/virology
*Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Adaptive Immunity
*Pneumonia/immunology/epidemiology/microbiology/diagnosis/virology
Biomarkers
Streptococcus pneumoniae/immunology
Community-Acquired Pneumonia

@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 {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 {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/administration & dosage ; *Coronary Artery Disease/drug therapy ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; 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/administration & dosage
*Coronary Artery Disease/drug therapy
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
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 ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; United States/epidemiology ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; *Prisons ; *Mental Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; },
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
*Health Personnel/psychology
United States/epidemiology
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
*Prisons
*Mental Health
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors

@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/chemistry/genetics ; Humans ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Animals ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/immunology/prevention & control ; *Receptors, Virus/chemistry/metabolism ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/chemistry/immunology/metabolism ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Protein Binding ; },
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/chemistry/genetics
Humans
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology
Animals
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/immunology/prevention & control
*Receptors, Virus/chemistry/metabolism
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/chemistry/immunology/metabolism
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Protein Binding

@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/ethics/methods ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Telerehabilitation/ethics ; Telemedicine/ethics ; Canada ; *Psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
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/ethics/methods
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Telerehabilitation/ethics
Telemedicine/ethics
Canada
*Psychology
SARS-CoV-2

@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 ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Informed Consent/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics ; *Anesthesia/ethics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Artificial Intelligence ; *Anesthesiology/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics ; Pandemics ; },
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
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Informed Consent/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics
*Anesthesia/ethics
SARS-CoV-2
Artificial Intelligence
*Anesthesiology/legislation & jurisprudence/ethics
Pandemics

@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 ; Phenotype ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
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
Phenotype
SARS-CoV-2

@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 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Serogroup ; Aged, 80 and over ; 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
SARS-CoV-2
Serogroup
Aged, 80 and over
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 {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 {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 ; *Lipidomics/methods ; *Burns/metabolism/blood ; *COVID-19/metabolism ; *Inflammation/metabolism ; *Brain Injuries, Traumatic/metabolism ; *Lipid Metabolism ; Biomarkers/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; 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
*Lipidomics/methods
*Burns/metabolism/blood
*COVID-19/metabolism
*Inflammation/metabolism
*Brain Injuries, Traumatic/metabolism
*Lipid Metabolism
Biomarkers/blood
SARS-CoV-2
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 ; COVID-19/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; *Pneumonia, Viral/physiopathology/drug therapy/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/physiopathology/drug therapy ; *Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism/physiology ; *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
COVID-19/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Receptors, Virus/metabolism
*Pneumonia, Viral/physiopathology/drug therapy/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/physiopathology/drug therapy
*Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism/physiology
*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 = {Humans ; Animals ; *Zoonoses/prevention & control/virology ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/prevention & control ; *Vaccine Development ; *Antiviral Agents ; },
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.},
}

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

@article {pmid41769352,
year = {2026},
author = {Silva, JJS and Fernández, S and Rosillo, N and Bueno, H},
title = {Covidence, Rayyan, EPPI Centre, Distiller SR, RevMan.},
journal = {Journal of the Medical Library Association : JMLA},
volume = {114},
number = {1},
pages = {83-85},
pmid = {41769352},
issn = {1558-9439},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {Covidence. Covidence Pty Ltd, Level 10, 446 Collins ST, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia; support@covidence.org; https://www.covidence.org/; pay per review. Rayyan. Rayyan, 1 Broadway, 14th Floor Cambridge, MA, 02142 USA; https://www.rayyan.ai/; pay per user. EPPI Centre. EPPI Centre, Social Science Research Unit, UCL Social Research Institute, 10 Woburn Square, London WC1H 0NS; eppisupport@ucl.ac.uk; https://eppi.ioe.ac.uk/cms/; pay per user. Distiller SR. DistillerSR Inc, 505 March Road, Suite 450, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K2K 3A4; support@distillersr.com; https://www.distillersr.com/; contact for pricing. RevMan. The Cochrane Collaboration, 11-13 Cavendish Square, London, W1G 0AN, United Kingdom; https://revman.cochrane.org/info; pay per user.},
}

Humans
COVID-19

@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 ; *Drug Development/standards/methods ; *Pharmacology, Clinical/standards ; *Coinfection/drug therapy ; United States ; *Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology ; Quality Control ; },
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
*Drug Development/standards/methods
*Pharmacology, Clinical/standards
*Coinfection/drug therapy
United States
*Anti-HIV Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology
Quality Control

@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 ; COVID-19 ; *Information Dissemination ; Genomics ; *Research Subjects/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
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
COVID-19
*Information Dissemination
Genomics
*Research Subjects/psychology
SARS-CoV-2

@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 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; },
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 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19/immunology/virology
Oxidative Stress/drug effects

@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/psychology ; Aged ; *Mental Health ; *Telemedicine ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Mental Disorders/therapy ; *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/psychology
Aged
*Mental Health
*Telemedicine
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Mental Disorders/therapy
*Women's Health

@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.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13054-025-05826-5.},
}

@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/supply & distribution/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Health Services Accessibility/statistics & numerical data ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data ; *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/supply & distribution/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Health Services Accessibility/statistics & numerical data
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/statistics & numerical data
*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 ; *Mass Screening ; Germany/epidemiology ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Middle Aged ; Risk Factors ; },
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
*Mass Screening
Germany/epidemiology
Female
Male
Adult
COVID-19/prevention & control
Middle Aged
Risk Factors

@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 {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/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/prevention & control/immunology ; *Immunocompromised Host ; Vaccine Efficacy ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; *Vaccination ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccines/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/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/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/prevention & control/immunology
*Immunocompromised Host
Vaccine Efficacy
COVID-19/prevention & control
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Immunogenicity, Vaccine
*Vaccination
Pneumococcal Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccines/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/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 ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; Global Health ; Hepacivirus/genetics ; COVID-19/virology ; *Viruses/genetics/pathogenicity ; HIV/genetics ; Selection, Genetic ; *Virus Diseases/virology/transmission ; },
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
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
Global Health
Hepacivirus/genetics
COVID-19/virology
*Viruses/genetics/pathogenicity
HIV/genetics
Selection, Genetic
*Virus Diseases/virology/transmission

@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/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *Lipids/chemistry ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Drug Carriers/chemistry ; Animals ; *Drug Delivery Systems ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy ; },
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/pharmacology/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*Lipids/chemistry
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Drug Carriers/chemistry
Animals
*Drug Delivery Systems
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy

@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/drug effects/metabolism/genetics ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics ; *Ribonucleoproteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Drug Discovery ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; *RNA Viruses/drug effects/genetics ; Animals ; },
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/drug effects/metabolism/genetics
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/genetics
*Ribonucleoproteins/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Drug Discovery
Virus Replication/drug effects
*RNA Viruses/drug effects/genetics
Animals

@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 ; *Systematic Reviews as Topic ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; COVID-19 ; *Evidence-Based Dentistry ; },
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
*Systematic Reviews as Topic
*Practice Guidelines as Topic
COVID-19
*Evidence-Based Dentistry

@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 ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Vaccine Development ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *mRNA Vaccines ; Global Health ; Drug Development ; },
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
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Vaccine Development
*Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*mRNA Vaccines
Global Health
Drug Development

@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 = {SARS-CoV-2/enzymology ; *RNA Viruses/enzymology/genetics ; Humans ; *Viral Proteases/metabolism/genetics ; *Viral Proteins/metabolism ; Proteolysis ; Polyproteins/metabolism ; HIV-1/enzymology/genetics ; *Protein Precursors/metabolism ; COVID-19 ; Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism ; Virus Replication ; },
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.},
}

SARS-CoV-2/enzymology
*RNA Viruses/enzymology/genetics
Humans
*Viral Proteases/metabolism/genetics
*Viral Proteins/metabolism
Proteolysis
Polyproteins/metabolism
HIV-1/enzymology/genetics
*Protein Precursors/metabolism
COVID-19
Peptide Hydrolases/metabolism
Virus Replication

@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 {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 ; *Health Personnel/education ; Scoping Reviews as Topic ; *Interprofessional Relations ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Cooperative Behavior ; Global Health ; Research Design ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
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
*Health Personnel/education
Scoping Reviews as Topic
*Interprofessional Relations
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Cooperative Behavior
Global Health
Research Design
Pandemic Preparedness

@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 {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 ; Child ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Population Surveillance ; Child Protective Services ; Evidence Gaps ; },
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
Child
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Population Surveillance
Child Protective Services
Evidence Gaps

@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 = {Animals ; Humans ; *Air Microbiology ; *Viruses/isolation & purification ; *Virus Diseases/virology ; Swine ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; },
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.},
}

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

@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 {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

@article {pmid41789942,
year = {2026},
author = {Chan, R and Horst, AK and Prince, E and Medina, A and McIntyre, A},
title = {Supporting Transition and Practice Readiness Through Nursing Clinical Externships: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {The Journal of nursing education},
volume = {65},
number = {6},
pages = {329-338},
doi = {10.3928/01484834-20260130-02},
pmid = {41789942},
issn = {1938-2421},
mesh = {Humans ; *Clinical Competence ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/organization & administration ; *Students, Nursing/psychology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Globally, new graduate nurses face persistent transition challenges and high turnover rates that threaten workforce stability and patient care quality-issues exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Clinical nurse externship (CNE) programs have emerged as structured experiential learning models that bridge the academic-practice gap through mentorship and clinical immersion.

METHOD: Following the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses-Scoping Reviews framework, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, MEDLINE (via Ovid), and EBSCO's Nursing & Allied Health Reference Source. Eligible studies involved undergraduate nursing students participating in CNE programs. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted, and thematically analyzed the data.

RESULTS: Twenty-four studies met inclusion criteria, revealing five themes: clinical competence, emotional impact, relationships and support, nursing values, and professional preparedness. CNE participation consistently enhanced competence, confidence, and professional identity while reducing anxiety and transition stress.

CONCLUSION: CNE programs effectively strengthen work-force readiness, retention, and the transition from education to practice, underscoring their value as a strategic element in global nursing education and workforce planning.},
}

Humans
*Clinical Competence
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/organization & administration
*Students, Nursing/psychology

@article {pmid41790528,
year = {2026},
author = {Gibbs, JL and Vollmer, B and Sheridan, CE and Pinkerton, K and Anthony, RT and Holm, S and Karr, C and Proctor, A and Swenson, A},
title = {Filtering facepiece respirator use among farm youth in the US: A review.},
journal = {Journal of occupational and environmental hygiene},
volume = {23},
number = {3},
pages = {178-190},
pmid = {41790528},
issn = {1545-9632},
support = {U54 OH007548/OH/NIOSH CDC HHS/United States ; U54 OH009568/OH/NIOSH CDC HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Protective Devices/statistics & numerical data ; United States ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Adolescent ; *Occupational Exposure/prevention & control ; Equipment Design ; *Farmers ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical need for protective equipment, such as filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs), particularly for youth. This systematic review addresses the significant gap in evidence-based guidance for FFR use among US farm youth, a group potentially exposed to diverse respiratory hazards. Current FFR designs and protocols for FFR use are largely adult-centric. Adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a multidisciplinary panel reviewed 31 publications published between 1990 and 2023. An independent working group of agricultural safety professionals also contributed by reviewing procedures and publications to check for bias during the review process. Key findings show that while FFRs appear physiologically tolerable by youth study subjects. Subjective discomfort and poor fit of adult-sized respirators remain major barriers to effective use and compliance. Studies highlight the critical need for youth-specific FFR designs based on detailed facial anthropometrics and the development of standardized fit-testing protocols tailored for growing youth. Furthermore, evidence-based guidance on ethical pediatric medical evaluations for respirator use and targeted respiratory health education are urgently needed. This review emphasizes that a concerted effort from manufacturers, researchers, and regulatory bodies is essential to ensure youth on farms can safely use respiratory protection.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Protective Devices/statistics & numerical data
United States
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Adolescent
*Occupational Exposure/prevention & control
Equipment Design
*Farmers
Child
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41791674,
year = {2026},
author = {Fan, BE and Tang, JKY and Favaloro, EJ},
title = {Safeguarding global anticoagulant supply and access.},
journal = {Journal of thrombosis and haemostasis : JTH},
volume = {24},
number = {5},
pages = {1587-1592},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtha.2026.02.017},
pmid = {41791674},
issn = {1538-7836},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anticoagulants/supply & distribution/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Health Services Accessibility ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; Global Health ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Anticoagulants are essential to health care, yet their global supply is inherently fragile. Reliance on animal-derived heparin creates vulnerability to contamination, animal disease, and logistical disruption, whereas synthetic alternatives like warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants face mounting manufacturing and geopolitical risks. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed how these intersecting threats can converge during a crisis, causing critical shortages. To build resilience, a systemic shift is required: developing nonanimal-derived anticoagulants, diversifying production geographically, establishing protected supply corridors, reducing high-carbon footprint manufacturing processes, and creating equitable allocation frameworks. Anticoagulants must be recognized as essential medical assets, necessitating sustained investment and international coordination to ensure reliable access for all health systems, particularly before the next pandemic or global shock.},
}

Humans
*Anticoagulants/supply & distribution/therapeutic use
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Health Services Accessibility
SARS-CoV-2
Animals
Global Health
Pandemics

@article {pmid41791675,
year = {2026},
author = {Weitz, JI and Harrington, RA and , },
title = {Rationale for the milvexian dosing in the phase 3 LIBREXIA program.},
journal = {Journal of thrombosis and haemostasis : JTH},
volume = {24},
number = {6},
pages = {2158-2169},
doi = {10.1016/j.jtha.2026.02.020},
pmid = {41791675},
issn = {1538-7836},
mesh = {Humans ; *Atrial Fibrillation/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis ; *Acute Coronary Syndrome/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis ; *Stroke/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis ; *Anticoagulants/administration & dosage/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; Treatment Outcome ; *Pyrazoles/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; Ischemic Attack, Transient/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis ; Pyridones/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; Administration, Oral ; Hemorrhage/chemically induced ; Pyrimidines ; Triazoles ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Milvexian is an oral, small-molecule inhibitor of factor (F)XIa undergoing evaluation in phase 3 clinical trials.

OBJECTIVES: This manuscript aimed to explain the rationale underpinning the hypothesis that FXIa may be a safer target for anticoagulants than FXa; describe the pharmacology of milvexian; review the results of the phase 2 trials with milvexian; and detail how the phase 2 program informed the dosing regimens for the phase 3 trials.

METHODS: This narrative review addresses the above objectives with the primary focus on addressing how the milvexian dosing regimens were selected for the phase 3 LIBREXIA program, which compares milvexian with apixaban for atrial fibrillation (AF) in the LIBREXIA AF trial (NCT05757869) and with placebo, in addition to background single or dual antiplatelet therapy, in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in the LIBREXIA ACS trial (NCT05754957), and for noncardioembolic ischemic stroke and high-risk transient ischemic attack in the LIBREXIA Stroke trial (NCT05702034).

RESULTS: The milvexian dose regimen selected for the LIBREXIA AF trial is 100 mg twice daily, and for the LIBREXIA ACS and Stroke trials, it is 25 mg twice daily.

CONCLUSIONS: The phase 3 LIBREXIA program will determine whether these dose regimens afford safe and effective anticoagulation in approximately 50 000 patients with AF, ACS, or prior stroke.},
}

Humans
*Atrial Fibrillation/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis
*Acute Coronary Syndrome/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis
*Stroke/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis
*Anticoagulants/administration & dosage/adverse effects/pharmacokinetics
Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic
Treatment Outcome
*Pyrazoles/administration & dosage/adverse effects
Ischemic Attack, Transient/drug therapy/blood/diagnosis
Pyridones/administration & dosage/adverse effects
Administration, Oral
Hemorrhage/chemically induced
Pyrimidines
Triazoles

@article {pmid41791686,
year = {2026},
author = {Karwa, PN and Sakle, NS},
title = {RNA therapeutics 2.0: Expanding the landscape from mRNA vaccines to splicing modulators and beyond.},
journal = {Biotechnology advances},
volume = {89},
number = {},
pages = {108862},
doi = {10.1016/j.biotechadv.2026.108862},
pmid = {41791686},
issn = {1873-1899},
mesh = {Humans ; *mRNA Vaccines/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *RNA Splicing/drug effects ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; *RNA, Messenger/genetics/therapeutic use ; Oligonucleotides, Antisense/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {RNA therapeutics have progressed into a disruptive drug class quickly, replacing a variety of primary experimental agents which included vaccines, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), aptamers and RNA editing systems. First-generation modalities, demonstrated by fomivirsen and pegaptanib were limited by vulnerability to nuclease attack, inefficient delivery and immune stimulation were treated with clinical feasibility. Recent clinical achievements, including mRNA vaccinations against COVID-19, have been based on developments in backbone chemistry, nucleoside modifications and targeted delivery including N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) conjugation and lipid nanoparticle (LNP) encapsulation. On this basis, it can be stated that the RNA Therapeutics 2.0 is more stable, tunable and can be targeted to organs and tissues. New methodologies such as circular RNA (circRNAs), self-amplifying mRNAs (saRNAs), splice-switching adenosine specific oligonucleotides (ASOs), small-molecule splicing modulators and adenosine deaminase toward RNA (ADAR)-directed base editors. These new generation systems can be used to make durable protein expression, reversible transcript recoding and precision splicing modulation, extending therapeutic applications to oncology, neurology, metabolic disease and rare genetic disorders. Extrahepatic delivery via innovations in delivery that included ligand-targeted LNPs, peptide conjugates and engineered exosomes is surpassing and artificial intelligence (AI) enhanced design is hastening optimization of RNA sequences, chemistries and vectors. RNA therapeutics in combination with gene therapy can be used to produce personalized therapeutics, such as n-of-1 medicines, based on immune regulation and control circuits. This Review describes the development of early oligonucleotide drugs to a diversified arsenal of RNA platforms, the major advancements, obstacles and emerging technology that characterize the next stage of RNA-based precision medicine.},
}

Humans
*mRNA Vaccines/therapeutic use
COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
*RNA Splicing/drug effects
COVID-19 Vaccines
*RNA, Messenger/genetics/therapeutic use
Oligonucleotides, Antisense/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41792534,
year = {2026},
author = {Del Riccio, M and Maggi, S and Wieczorowska-Tobis, K and Newell, K and Czech, M and Botelho-Nevers, E and Michel, JP and Hummers, E and Duque, S and Lundgren, J and Barrat, J and Tan, L and Wysocki, J and Boccalini, S and Bechini, A and Jindal, S and Hendrickx, G and Van Damme, P and Bonanni, P and Pattyn, J},
title = {Advancing Vaccination Strategies for Older Adults: Insights of the Adult Immunization Board Meeting.},
journal = {Drugs & aging},
volume = {43},
number = {3},
pages = {223-237},
pmid = {41792534},
issn = {1179-1969},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Vaccination/methods ; Middle Aged ; *Immunization Programs ; *Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Europe ; Adult ; Immunization Schedule ; },
abstract = {As Europe's population ages, optimizing vaccination strategies for older adults is an increasing public health priority. Vaccine-preventable infections pose significant risks, including increased morbidity and mortality, reduced quality of life, and substantial healthcare costs. Prevention, particularly adult vaccination, plays a vital role in mitigating these outcomes and supporting healthy ageing. While childhood immunization remains essential, a life-course approach including routine older adult vaccination is needed. Coverage among older adults across Europe remains suboptimal owing to factors such as heterogeneous (sub)national policies, health literacy issues, financial barriers, access issues, and persistent structural and societal barriers. To meet these challenges, the Adult Immunization Board (AIB) convened a technical meeting in May 2025, to discuss strategies for improving vaccination in older adults. The meeting explored how older adults are defined in immunization policies (for the meeting, an operational threshold of ≥ 50 years was used, while acknowledging that many national age-based programs commonly start around 60-65 years) and reviewed current adult vaccines and programmatic implementation across six vaccines. Discussions highlighted the need for a life-course approach with coordinated (inter)national policies, clear adult vaccination schedules, dedicated infrastructure and programs, stronger surveillance, and structured follow-up. Key recommendations included shifting from fragmented efforts to cohesive, system-wide approaches. This approach requires addressing organizational challenges with programmatic strategies such as integrating adult vaccination into routine healthcare, providing co-administration guidance, and adapting successful pediatric models for adult programs. This summary presents insights shared during the AIB meeting, highlighting gaps and promising solutions for advancing older adult immunization in Europe. Vaccination must be recognized as an investment in healthy ageing, which is also able to generate a return in economic terms, as part of a holistic health package for older adults, not as an optional add-on to treatment. With older adults now outnumbering children under 5 years globally, it is time to invest equally in their vaccination.},
}

Humans
Aged
*Vaccination/methods
Middle Aged
*Immunization Programs
*Vaccines/administration & dosage
Europe
Adult
Immunization Schedule

@article {pmid41793162,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, DH and Lim, S and Eisenhut, M and Kronbichler, A and Kim, E and Kim, MS and Papatheodorou, SI and Stebbing, J and Peng, Y and Oh, SS and Shin, JI and Smith, L},
title = {The Impact of Study Size on COVID-19 Treatment Outcomes: A Meta-Epidemiological Study Comparing Large and Small Randomized Controlled Trials: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70125},
pmid = {41793162},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {//Yonsei Fellowship/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology/virology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Treatment Outcome ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Sample Size ; },
abstract = {Small randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in COVID-19 meta-analyses have been associated with more favourable treatment effects and reduced result stability. This study assessed how trial size impacts effect estimates, statistical stability, and risk of bias. Following PRISMA guidelines, we identified meta-analyses of COVID-19 treatments included in WHO, NIH, and the LIVING Project. Trials were classified by log-scale sample size, and separate pooled meta-analyses were conducted for large-only, small-only, and combined trials. Comparative metrics included the Ratio of Odds Ratios (ROR), Kappa statistics, Fragility Index (FI), Reverse Fragility Index (RFI), and Cochrane Risk of Bias assessments. Sensitivity analyses applied alternative size thresholds (≥ 1000 participants and median-based cutoffs) and stratified results by treatment and outcome type. Across 25 meta-analyses including 221 RCTs (46 large, 175 small), small trials produced more extreme estimates in 19 analyses and wider confidence intervals in 23. The pooled ROR was 0.85 (95% CI: 0.76-0.95; P = 0.004), decreasing to 0.81 (95% CI: 0.68-0.95; P = 0.011) when limited to small trials published before the first large trial. RORs remained below 1 across treatment and outcome types. Agreement between small and large trials was minimal, while large trials showed substantial agreement with overall estimates. Stability and bias profiles favoured large trials (FI: 14.0 vs. 4.0; RFI: 10.0 vs. 5.0). In conclusion, small RCTs tend to overestimate treatment effects and yield less precise, less stable results. Meta-analyses should prioritise large, high-quality trials and interpret small-study findings with caution, particularly in rapidly evolving research contexts.},
}

Humans
*Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*COVID-19/therapy/epidemiology/virology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Treatment Outcome
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Sample Size

@article {pmid41794658,
year = {2026},
author = {Nemeh, MN and Tahir, P and Hirschtritt, ME and Kalapatapu, RK},
title = {Psychiatric comorbidity in functional tics: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41794658},
issn = {1471-244X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: There has been a dramatic rise in the prevalence of functional tics since the COVID-19 pandemic. While the prevalence of various comorbidities has been well defined in primary tic disorders such as Tourette Syndrome, less is known about this topic in patients with functional tics. Therefore, the purpose of this scoping review is to characterize what is known about the prevalence of psychiatric and neurologic comorbidities in patients with functional tics and identify gaps that persist in this literature.

METHODS: A comprehensive search across multiple databases was used for data collection. We included studies that provided original data on the presence of psychiatric comorbidities in patients with a diagnosis of functional tics. Study screening progress was documented in a Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flow chart. A total of 150 titles and abstracts were screened, 78 full texts were evaluated for eligibility, and 31 studies were included.

RESULTS: The included studies identified epidemiological data and common psychiatric and neurologic comorbidities in patients with functional tics. Most of the studies reviewed were published after 2020, highlighting the recent uptick in incidence and prevalence of functional tics. Depression and anxiety, followed by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, were among the most commonly identified comorbidities.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, further research on the prevalence of comorbidities in patients with functional tics is needed to inform clinicians’ differential diagnosis and integrated treatment planning. Depression and anxiety are common comorbidities in patients with functional tics and may be underrecognized and underreported. The prevalence of all comorbidities appears to have increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Future research should further quantitatively define the comorbidity profile in functional tics.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12888-026-07932-2.},
}

@article {pmid41795913,
year = {2026},
author = {Thorpe, DW and Jones, LA and Martin, AM and Coleman, RA and Allman, C and Peterson, RA and Keating, DJ},
title = {The role of peripheral serotonin in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, COVID-19 treatment and long COVID.},
journal = {Immunology and cell biology},
volume = {104},
number = {4},
pages = {368-376},
pmid = {41795913},
issn = {1440-1711},
mesh = {Humans ; *Serotonin/metabolism ; *COVID-19/virology/metabolism/complications ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology/pathogenicity ; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Virus Internalization ; Gastrointestinal Tract/virology/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Gastrointestinal symptoms have emerged as a common, but underappreciated, cause of morbidity in relation to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the COVID-19 pandemic. This manifests as a range of indications including diarrhea, anorexia, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In addition, the gastrointestinal tract may represent a route of viral entry via the epithelial cell layer lining the gut wall. This route of entry could be a significant component of disease pathogenesis, including effects on the nervous system via the gut-brain axis. In this review, we provide an assessment of the effects of COVID-19 on the gastrointestinal system, its involvement in disease severity and potential pathways for viral entry and infection in the gastrointestinal tract. We also examine evidence that gut-derived serotonin is affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, how this may link to symptoms and disease pathogenesis and the potential link to the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in reducing COVID-19 severity.},
}

Humans
*Serotonin/metabolism
*COVID-19/virology/metabolism/complications
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology/pathogenicity
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Virus Internalization
Gastrointestinal Tract/virology/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid41796425,
year = {2026},
author = {Peñaherrera-Vásquez, D and Reina, A and Merlo, F and Fajardo-Loaiza, T and Zambrano-Sánchez, G and Rivadeneira, J and Fuenmayor-González, L},
title = {Unveiling the genitourinary phenotype of long COVID: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {International urology and nephrology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41796425},
issn = {1573-2584},
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Long COVID has been associated with persistent multisystemic manifestations. However, genitourinary alterations have not been formally recognized as a distinct phenotype despite growing reports suggesting their relevance for long-term morbidity and quality of life.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the frequency and characteristics of genitourinary manifestations in patients with long COVID and to evaluate the evidence supporting the possible emergence of a genitourinary phenotype within long COVID.

DATA SOURCES: For this Systematic review and meta-analysis, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, SciELO, and Bireme-BvS from inception to October 2025, without language or publication date restrictions. Observational studies (cross-sectional, cohort, or case-control) assessing individuals with one or more genitourinary symptoms-such as menstrual alterations, erectile dysfunction, urinary tract symptoms, or renal function decline-persisting ≥ 12 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. Studies addressing only acute-phase manifestations, vaccine-related effects, or pre-existing genitourinary conditions were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers following PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies. A random-effects meta-analysis using the Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation was applied to estimate pooled proportions, and heterogeneity was quantified using the I[2] statistic, Cochran's Q test, and the between-study variance (τ[2]).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcomes were the pooled frequencies of genitourinary manifestations in long COVID, including menstrual disorders, erectile dysfunction, and renal function decline.

RESULTS: Nine primary studies encompassing 2332 participants from eight countries were included. Most studies (88.9%) presented a low RoB. The pooled frequency of menstrual disorders was 49% (95% CI 24-74), erectile dysfunction 21% (95% CI 16-28), and renal function decline 29% (95% CI 20-39).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: This systematic review and meta-analysis provide evidence supporting the possible emergence of a genitourinary phenotype of long COVID, encompassing menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction, cystitis-like symptoms, and renal impairment. Recognition of this potential phenotype is crucial for improving diagnostic accuracy, patient follow-up, and multidisciplinary management. Further high-quality studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and long-term clinical implications.},
}

@article {pmid41796915,
year = {2026},
author = {Lasagna, A and Del Re, M and Danesi, R and Andreoni, M and Tessitore, D and Di Maio, M and Silvestris, N and Pedrazzoli, P},
title = {Bispecific antibodies in solid tumors: An Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) multidisciplinary perspective on immunology and vaccination.},
journal = {Critical reviews in oncology/hematology},
volume = {221},
number = {},
pages = {105253},
doi = {10.1016/j.critrevonc.2026.105253},
pmid = {41796915},
issn = {1879-0461},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antibodies, Bispecific/therapeutic use ; *Neoplasms/immunology/therapy/drug therapy ; *Vaccination/methods ; Italy ; Medical Oncology ; *Cancer Vaccines/therapeutic use/immunology ; },
abstract = {The clinical use of bispecific antibodies (BsAbs) in solid tumors is rapidly expanding, yet evidence-based guidance on infection prevention and vaccination in this setting remains limited. We performed a critical narrative review integrating immunological mechanisms, available clinical data, and multidisciplinary expert opinion to inform vaccination strategies for patients with solid tumours treated with BsAbs. BsAbs can induce transient or sustained immune perturbations, including T-cell hyperactivation, lymphocyte redistribution, functional exhaustion, cytokine-mediated immune dysregulation, and, in selected contexts, B-cell impairment. These effects may reduce vaccine-induced humoral and cellular responses and increase vulnerability to infectious complications. Optimization of vaccination status before BsAb initiation is therefore advisable, as pre-treatment immunisation is more likely to achieve effective immune priming. Inactivated vaccines, including influenza, pneumococcal, SARS-CoV-2, hepatitis B (HBV), and recombinant herpes zoster vaccines, can be administered before or, when necessary, during therapy, whereas live attenuated vaccines should be avoided during active treatment. Vaccination timing during BsAb therapy should be individualised, taking into account the treatment schedule and immune recovery. Current recommendations rely largely on indirect evidence from haematological malignancies and other T-cell redirecting therapies. These considerations are essential to support treatment continuity, reduce preventable morbidity, and guide future prospective studies in patients with solid tumors treated with BsAbs.},
}

Humans
*Antibodies, Bispecific/therapeutic use
*Neoplasms/immunology/therapy/drug therapy
*Vaccination/methods
Italy
Medical Oncology
*Cancer Vaccines/therapeutic use/immunology

@article {pmid41797310,
year = {2026},
author = {Campbell, LA and Canales, MK and Spiser, K and Lopez, T and Mattimoe, G},
title = {Building Community Trust: A Rural Health Department's Journey Toward Health Equity.},
journal = {Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/phn.70104},
pmid = {41797310},
issn = {1525-1446},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Rural health departments face unique challenges in advancing health equity, particularly during times of political polarization. These challenges intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the complex interplay between public health authorities, political dynamics, and community trust.

OBJECTIVE: To document how a rural local county health department (LCHD) navigated political barriers and systemic inequities to conduct a community health assessment (CHA) during and after the COVID pandemic.

APPROACH: This CHA, conducted during 2021-2023, employed mixed methods data collection strategies: a bilingual community survey, listening sessions in English and Spanish, and informal interviews. Utilizing a health equity lens, the analysis focused on identifying power dynamics, systemic barriers, and community perspectives on health.

RESULTS: Survey data revealed differences between Hispanic and non-Hispanic respondents' health concerns and perceived barriers. Healthcare access was the only statistically significant barrier for Hispanic respondents. Lessons learned from the CHA process are provided.

CONCLUSION: The strategies employed during the CHA demonstrate how rural health departments can advance health equity while navigating complex political landscapes. Success requires careful attention to language, strategic coalition building, and persistent focus on elevating marginalized voices. The LCHD built community trust despite political resistance by modifying language around equity issues and strategic coalitions.},
}

@article {pmid41798257,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, J and Wu, X},
title = {Fecal microbiota transplantation in ulcerative colitis: evidence, mechanisms, and practice considerations.},
journal = {Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {17562848261426284},
pmid = {41798257},
issn = {1756-283X},
abstract = {Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease strongly associated with intestinal dysbiosis, reduced microbial diversity, and disrupted microbial metabolite profiles. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) aims to restore microbial homeostasis and has shown a signal of benefit for induction of remission in some trials, but results are heterogeneous and long-term maintenance efficacy remains uncertain. In this narrative review, we synthesize randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews/meta-analyses, and recent guideline and regulatory updates on FMT in UC, and integrate mechanistic insights from microbiome and metabolomics research. Across RCTs, intensive lower-gastrointestinal regimens using pooled, multidonor material, and/or anaerobic processing have most consistently achieved modestly higher steroid-free clinical and endoscopic remission than placebo in mild-to-moderate UC (approximately 25%-32% vs 5%-10% in representative studies), whereas upper-gastrointestinal delivery or oral lyophilized formulations and highly restrictive donor selection have yielded mixed or negative results. Mechanistically, responders commonly demonstrate engraftment of short-chain fatty acid producing taxa and restoration of secondary bile acid pathways. Safety profiles in trials are generally comparable to placebo for common mild adverse events, but rare severe transmissions (e.g., multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli and SARS-CoV-2) have driven stricter donor screening and have limited routine use outside regulated programs. Current guidelines recommend against FMT for UC outside clinical trials. Future work should prioritize standardized protocols, biomarker-guided personalization, combination strategies (diet/priming), and development of defined microbial therapeutics to improve efficacy and safety.},
}

@article {pmid41798379,
year = {2025},
author = {Newnham, A and Tattersall, T and Odendaal, J},
title = {Do Medical Schools Need to Adapt Their Curriculum in Order to Teach Medical Students 'Webside' Manner? A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Medical science educator},
volume = {35},
number = {6},
pages = {3173-3183},
pmid = {41798379},
issn = {2156-8650},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Remote consulting was exponentially implemented secondary to the COVID-19 pandemic, and remains a staple of modern healthcare. Telemedicine consulting requires a different set of consultation skills collectively coined 'webside manner'. Evidence suggests inadequate training is a barrier to effective teleconsulting. This review aims to systematically assess the effect of telemedicine consultation skills training for medical students.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and EMBASE. Two independent reviewers screened articles from 1 January 2010 onwards. A mixed-methods approach was undertaken. Thematic analysis identified three reporting themes. Quantitative data was reported within these themes using descriptive statistics. Study quality was assessed using the MERSQI score.

FINDINGS: In total, 241 articles were obtained, 38 extracted for full text review, and 11 included. Three themes were identified: communication skills, doctor-patient relationship, and confidence in performing virtual consultations. Six out of seven studies reported improved communication skills following telemedicine training. Three studies report a positive impact on the doctor-patient relationship. Student confidence showed improvement in all reporting studies.

CONCLUSION: This review demonstrates a positive association between telemedicine training and improved virtual consultation skills for medical students. The results are limited by the low quality and heterogeneity of included studies.},
}

@article {pmid41798405,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, G and Hartnett, R and Silva, BM and Fekrat, SMM and Prasad, S and Gill, G and Gunturu, S},
title = {Comparison of Antipsychotics in the Treatment of COVID-19-Induced First-Episode Psychosis: A Review of Case Studies.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e103021},
pmid = {41798405},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {This study aims to systematically review COVID-19-associated first-episode psychosis cases, comparing antipsychotic selection, dosing strategies, treatment response timelines, adverse effects, and relapse rates to inform evidence-based pharmacological management. We conducted a structured narrative review of published case reports and series describing COVID-19-Induced first-episode psychosis treated with antipsychotics. A comprehensive search of PubMed and Google Scholar (Jan 2020-Apr 2023) identified 42 eligible cases based on predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a standardized template and summarized descriptively due to clinical heterogeneity. Variables included demographics, psychiatric features, antipsychotic(s) used, clinical course, and outcomes. First-episode psychosis (FEP) was higher in males (24, 57.1%) and the 30-39 age group (10, 23.8%). Olanzapine was the most commonly used single antipsychotic (6, 28.6%), while the combination of haloperidol and aripiprazole was the most frequently used antipsychotic regimen (4, 19.0%). Atypical antipsychotics were preferred (54.8%), with olanzapine (23, 54.8%) being the most commonly used at a mean dose of 10.9 mg/day. Reported side effects included fatigue, weight gain, akathisia, leukocytosis, and QT-interval prolongation (5, 11.9%), with a relapse rate of (2, 4.8%). This review evaluates the treatment methods for COVID-19 FEP and develops a deeper understanding of various antipsychotics used in managing psychosis and its outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41798556,
year = {2026},
author = {Armstrong, JL and Bennis, S and Smock, JN and Kesselman, MM},
title = {Teledermatology for Older Adults With a Focus on Nursing Home Residents: A Scoping Review of Clinical and System-Level Benefits.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e102891},
pmid = {41798556},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Teledermatology (TD), which involves providing dermatology services, including diagnosis and management, remotely, has grown as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a critical tool for delivering dermatologic care, especially to aging populations. Specifically, for nursing home residents who often face mobility and cognitive limitations, multimorbidity, and an increased risk of complications, TD may allow for earlier diagnoses, improved access to care and quality of life, and timely management. A scoping review of studies published between 2015 and 2025 was conducted to evaluate clinical and system-level outcomes. A comprehensive search was conducted by three independent researchers using multiple databases, including Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science. To analyze the most common dermatologic diagnoses in nursing homes, the inclusion criteria included geriatric patients (>60 years old), nursing home patients, and studies published in English between 2015 and 2025. For analyzing the overall benefits of using TD, the inclusion criteria were identical except that dermatology patients of any age were eligible. Exclusion criteria for analyzing the most common dermatologic diagnoses in nursing homes and the benefits of using TD included articles that were older than 15 years and case reports. Overall, this review will provide a comprehensive analysis of the benefits of using TD as a diagnostic and management tool for dermatologic conditions in the elderly nursing home setting.},
}

@article {pmid41798665,
year = {2026},
author = {Maruyama, T and Hieda, M and Fukata, M},
title = {Current Trends and Future Perspectives of Bradycardia, Renal Failure, Atrioventricular Nodal Blockade, Shock, and Hyperkalemia (BRASH) Syndrome: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {e104731},
pmid = {41798665},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {BRASH syndrome is defined as a clinical condition in which bradycardia, renal failure, atrioventricular (AV) nodal blockade, shock, and hyperkalemia interact to form a self-perpetuating negative spiral. Geriatric practitioners are increasingly likely to encounter elderly patients with this syndrome who are taking AV nodal blocking agents, such as calcium channel blockers (CCBs) or β-blockers. However, it remains unclear how the heart failure (HF) pandemic and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have influenced the incidence, triggers, management, and clinical course of BRASH syndrome. Therefore, open-access databases were searched for publications from 1980 to 2025, identifying 41 eligible articles reporting a total of 54 patients with BRASH syndrome. The mean age of affected patients was 69.0 ± 15.1 years. Hypertension (HTN, 74%), chronic kidney disease (CKD, 61%), and diabetes (54%) were the most common comorbidities. More than half of the patients (52%) were prescribed angiotensin-suppressing agents (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB), or angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI)) for HTN or HF. Two elderly patients were diagnosed with BRASH syndrome triggered by COVID-19. This literature review clarifies that BRASH syndrome commonly occurs in elderly patients with HTN or CKD and is often associated with everyday clinical events such as anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, and infection, including COVID-19. Our database search supports recognizing BRASH syndrome as an important clinical entity in geriatric emergency medicine. Geriatric practitioners should be aware of this condition to enable early diagnosis and appropriate management in the modern HF and post-COVID-19 era.},
}

@article {pmid41798883,
year = {2026},
author = {Timpka, T and Gursky, EA and Nyce, JM},
title = {Making US public health a good idea again.},
journal = {Lancet regional health. Americas},
volume = {57},
number = {},
pages = {101423},
pmid = {41798883},
issn = {2667-193X},
abstract = {The stress test the COVID-19 pandemic imposed on the US public health system illuminated predictable yet surprisingly unplanned for fault lines. A perceived lack of choice associated with nonpharmaceutical and pharmaceutical interventions led many Americans to question both measures and processes for mitigating disease consequences, such as masking and mass vaccination. A cultural-historical examination shows that a central impediment for US efforts to control the pandemic was the limited sense of common good. Many factors and beliefs, including also that the scientific-biotechnological innovation system did not serve the interests of all people equally, and the public health community's equating disease with how people perceived illness, weakened vaccination acceptance and disease control efforts. We conclude that US public health must renegotiate the social contract with the American people to recover a shared understanding of its relevance and to effectively respond to future health challenges and pandemics.},
}

@article {pmid41799381,
year = {2026},
author = {Raheel, H and Ferguson, A and Leslie, SL and Guardado-Menjivar, V and Chen, K and Merceron, A and Arciniegas, J and Lovvorn, AE and Higgins, M and Barr, DB and Saikawa, E and Handley, MA and Thompson, LM},
title = {Behavioral interventions related to plastic waste management in low-and middle-income countries: a systematic review using the behavior change wheel and the theoretical domains framework.},
journal = {Environmental research letters : ERL [Web site]},
volume = {21},
number = {5},
pages = {053003},
pmid = {41799381},
issn = {1748-9326},
abstract = {Addressing the mounting plastic waste problem requires system-level solutions, along with interventions that promote behavioral change. In low-resource countries, inadequate, if not absent, waste management systems lead to unsafe disposal practices, including open burning. While theory-informed approaches are essential for identifying enablers and barriers to target behavior change, their application is limited in these settings. Given the lack of a theory-driven synthesis of behavioral strategies to address plastic waste, this systematic review aimed to: (1) synthesize behavioral interventions related to plastic waste management in low-resource countries; (2) map these interventions to the behavior change wheel (BCW), using the capability-opportunity-motivation-behavior model, and the theoretical domains framework (TDF); and (3) classify implementation strategies to inform theory-driven intervention design. This review is the first to use the BCW to examine behavioral interventions related to plastic waste management in low-resource countries. Nine bibliographic databases: APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, Environment Complete, Global Health, GreenFile, Health Source: Nursing Academic, PubMed, and Web of Science Core Collection were searched. We included English-language human studies up to 9 April 2025, that evaluated interventions or policies targeting individual- or community-level behaviors related to plastic waste management in low-, lower-middle, or upper-middle income countries. We excluded studies from high-income countries, and those focused on environmental impacts, industrial or municipal waste streams, ecosystems or animals without human behavioral components, COVID-19-specific waste, or hypothetical modeling without real-life interventions. Forty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Study quality was assessed using the mixed methods appraisal Tool. Interventions spanned 27 low-resource countries and targeted diverse populations, including schoolchildren, households, market vendors, and community organizations. Education was the most frequent BCW intervention function (76.7%), followed by environmental restructuring, incentivization, persuasion, and training. Mapping revealed that behavioral interventions relied most frequently on the TDF domains of environmental context, knowledge, skills, and social influences. Some domains, such as beliefs about capabilities, reinforcement, and identity, received moderate attention, while appealing to emotion or the use of behavioral regulation, were underutilized. Behavioral interventions for plastic waste management in low-resource countries have predominantly emphasized awareness-raising but insufficiently leveraged other BCW intervention functions and TDF domains. Integration of motivational, emotional, and identity-based strategies alongside structural support can enhance the sustainability of behavior change.},
}

@article {pmid41799482,
year = {2026},
author = {Leon-Rojas, JE},
title = {Tele-neurology in Latin America: digital solutions for a treatment gap.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1779415},
pmid = {41799482},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; Latin America ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Neurology/methods/organization & administration ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Nervous System Diseases/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Ecuador ; },
abstract = {Neurological disorders remain a leading cause of disability across Latin America, yet access to specialist care is affected by important workforce shortages, geographic disparities, and under-resourced health systems. Tele-neurology has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate these barriers, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in rapid digital health adoption. This review article examines the development and implementation of tele-neurology initiatives across Latin America, with a focus on Ecuador; drawing on examples such as TeleEEG, telestroke networks, and Project ECHO, I illustrate how digital tools have expanded the reach of neurological services in underserved regions. Despite demonstrable benefits, challenges persist, including uneven digital infrastructure, regulatory gaps, and disparities in access. I argue that tele-neurology must be deliberately integrated into national public health strategies, not merely as a pandemic contingency but as a potential long-term solution for health equity, if done properly. Strategic investments in broadband access, clinician training, sustainable financing, and regional collaboration are essential to scale these innovations. When anchored in strong policy frameworks and aligned with global neurological health goals, tele-neurology could offer a path toward closing the treatment gap and advancing equitable neurological care throughout Latin America.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
Latin America
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Neurology/methods/organization & administration
*Health Services Accessibility
*Nervous System Diseases/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Ecuador

@article {pmid41800523,
year = {2026},
author = {Esposito, N and Buonomo, AR and Di Filippo, I and Forte, E and Trucillo, E and Gentile, I and Schiano Moriello, N},
title = {Lessons from examining the safety of drugs for COVID-19 during pregnancy.},
journal = {Expert opinion on drug safety},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-11},
doi = {10.1080/14740338.2026.2637649},
pmid = {41800523},
issn = {1744-764X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Pregnant women represent a vulnerable population during the COVID-19 pandemic, facing increased risks of severe disease and adverse obstetric outcomes, yet they have been largely excluded from pivotal therapeutic clinical trials, leaving a critical evidence gap for treatment decisions.

AREAS COVERED: This review examines the available evidence on the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 therapies during pregnancy, including oral antivirals (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, molnupiravir), intravenous remdesivir, monoclonal antibodies, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators (tocilizumab, baricitinib). A literature search was conducted using MEDLINE/PubMed for English-language articles published from March 2020 to December 2023, including studies of any design reporting maternal and neonatal outcomes.

EXPERT OPINION: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed a critical gap in clinical research through the systematic exclusion of pregnant women from therapeutic trials. Current evidence, though largely observational, supports vaccination as the primary preventive strategy, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir for outpatients at risk of progression, and remdesivir plus corticosteroids for hospitalized patients requiring oxygen supplementation.},
}

@article {pmid41800915,
year = {2026},
author = {Kato, TA},
title = {Hikikomori in the urban digital era: a psychodynamic, transdiagnostic model and multimodal interventions.},
journal = {Current opinion in psychiatry},
volume = {39},
number = {3},
pages = {234-241},
pmid = {41800915},
issn = {1473-6578},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Isolation/psychology ; Urban Population ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/psychology ; Object Attachment ; *COVID-19/psychology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Hikikomori (prolonged social withdrawal) was first described in Japan and was initially regarded as culture-bound. It is now recognized as a global mental health concern, more prevalent in urban settings and frequently comorbid with psychiatric disorders. In the post - COVID - 19 era, home - centered lifestyles have become increasingly normative, prompting a reconceptualization of hikikomori beyond reduced outing frequency. Drawing on over two decades of clinical and research experience, we propose a psychodynamic (developmental and attachment-informed), transdiagnostic, and multidimensional framework and outline assessment and intervention strategies for urban digital societies.

RECENT FINDINGS: International frameworks distinguish pathological from non-pathological hikikomori based on psychological distress and functional impairment. Emerging evidence implicates attachment insecurity, early adversity, and transdiagnostic biological pathways involving inflammation, and neurodevelopmental mechanisms. Early-phase pathological hikikomori is associated with increased risk of depression and gaming disorder, with possible relevance of modern-type depression. Digital tools, including online engagement and virtual reality based interventions, may provide low-threshold gateways to reach otherwise hard-to-reach individuals.

SUMMARY: In contemporary urban life, physical isolation per se is not necessarily pathological. Translating a biopsychosocial-cultural model integrating psychopathology and attachment into structured assessment, family-based approaches, clinical care, and digital interventions is essential to prevent long-term pathological hikikomori.},
}

Humans
*Social Isolation/psychology
Urban Population
*Mental Disorders/therapy/psychology
Object Attachment
*COVID-19/psychology

@article {pmid41802499,
year = {2026},
author = {Sheehan, C and Liu, TJ and Zhang, P and Wang, H and Chang, A},
title = {Excipients: New opportunities for complex challenges - USP's approaches.},
journal = {European journal of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics : official journal of Arbeitsgemeinschaft fur Pharmazeutische Verfahrenstechnik e.V},
volume = {223},
number = {},
pages = {115045},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejpb.2026.115045},
pmid = {41802499},
issn = {1873-3441},
mesh = {*Excipients/chemistry/standards ; Humans ; *Pharmacopoeias as Topic/standards ; Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/chemistry ; Nanomedicine/methods ; Polymers/chemistry ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {The quality of excipients is important since they can make up to about 90% of the total mass/volume of the drug product. Traditionally, excipients specifications were established with a focus on quality for intended use in the drug product and less on excipient composition, and physical and chemical properties, however, the increasing demand for high quality excipients used in the development of nanomedicines and novel delivery systems requires higher quality and purity, e.g., use of phospholipids in development of Covid-19 vaccine nanomedicine delivery systems. USP is collaborating with stakeholders to address the lack of standardized test methods for complex/polymeric type excipients (e.g., phospholipids/LG polymers) offering new solutions and help with excipient compositional and variability issues along with associated environmental aspects. By expanding its offerings through its "emerging standards" new model for stakeholder engagement, USP is more flexible in its solutions offerings that favor earlier interaction in the genesis of quality standards in a more iterative way. This publication will provide an overview of evolving compendial approaches (e.g., standalone chapters) and expanded solutions and offerings (use of analytical reference materials (ARMS), associated application (App) notes, and technical guides).},
}

*Excipients/chemistry/standards
Humans
*Pharmacopoeias as Topic/standards
Drug Delivery Systems/methods
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/chemistry
Nanomedicine/methods
Polymers/chemistry
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid41802806,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, JH and Mainali, P and Zhang, W and Ow, DS},
title = {Armored RNA technology as a clinical diagnostics tool for future pandemic preparedness.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology (Seoul, Korea)},
volume = {64},
number = {2},
pages = {e2510016},
doi = {10.71150/jm.2510016},
pmid = {41802806},
issn = {1976-3794},
support = {//Agency for Science, Technology and Research/ ; M24N8c0107//Young Investigator Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification ; *RNA, Viral/genetics ; Pandemics ; *Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods ; Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/methods ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of reliable molecular diagnostics in outbreak response and the vulnerabilities of existing systems to delays and reagent instability. Armored RNA technology, which packages RNA within bacteriophage-derived capsids, offers a robust solution by combining nuclease resistance, safety, and versatility into a single platform. Armored RNA has become a trusted internal and external control for RT-qPCR and RT-LAMP, enabling accurate detection across a wide range of viral pathogens. Also, recent advances in alternative expression systems, such as plant-based and cell-free platforms, as well as the use of more stable scaffolds from bacteriophage Qβ, are enhancing yield, stability, and accessibility of armored RNA. Engineering innovations, including capsid polymorphism and optimized downstream purification, further improve efficiency and broaden possible applications. Looking ahead, armored RNA holds promise not only as a diagnostic standard but also as a delivery vehicle for vaccines and therapeutics. Encapsulation of self-amplifying RNA, small interfering RNA, or microRNA could open new pathways for rapid-response vaccines and targeted therapies, aligning this technology with the future of precision medicine. By uniting stability, scalability, and adaptability, armored RNA represents a critical component of global health preparedness, with the potential to strengthen diagnostic resilience and accelerate biomedical countermeasures in future pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/isolation & purification
*RNA, Viral/genetics
Pandemics
*Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods
Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques/methods
Pandemic Preparedness

@article {pmid41804969,
year = {2026},
author = {Branfield, S},
title = {The interface of hemostasis and inflammation: endothelial-platelet dynamics in thrombosis.},
journal = {Current opinion in hematology},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {88-94},
doi = {10.1097/MOH.0000000000000918},
pmid = {41804969},
issn = {1531-7048},
mesh = {Humans ; *Blood Platelets/metabolism/pathology ; *COVID-19/blood/complications/pathology ; *Thrombosis/pathology/metabolism/drug therapy/etiology/blood ; *Hemostasis ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Inflammation/pathology/metabolism ; von Willebrand Factor/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes current understanding of platelet-endothelial contributions to thrombosis, emphasizing molecular crosstalk [von Willebrand factor (VWF)/ADAMTS13 balance, P-selectin, platelet glycoprotein VI (GPVI), integrins, extracellular vesicles, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs)], high-risk clinical settings, and translational advances. Highlighting GPVI-directed therapeutics, the VWF/ADAMTS13 axis in COVID-19, and opportunities and challenges for targeting the platelet-endothelial interface.

RECENT FINDINGS: Clinical and translational studies support the safety and potential efficacy of targeting platelet-endothelial interfaces. GPVI inhibitors (Glenzocimab, Revacept) have advanced through phase I/II studies with reassuring bleeding profiles and suggest benefit in ischemic stroke and lesion-directed settings. Direct interruption of platelet-VWF interactions (Caplacizumab) is established in immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), while studies show a persistent VWF/ADAMTS13 imbalance in severe COVID-19 and inflammatory states linked to microthrombosis and worse outcomes. Antiadhesion strategies (P-selectin blockade) and modulators of immunothrombosis (NET inhibitors, targeting extracellular vesicle) are also in evaluation.

SUMMARY: Targeting platelet-endothelial crosstalk has potential to reduce pathologic thrombosis while preserving hemostasis. Clinical proof of principle exists for focused approaches (anti-VWF in TTP; P-selectin blockade in vaso-occlusion; emerging GPVI inhibitors). Priorities are: defining disease contexts and timing where interface targeting is effective; validating biomarkers (VWF/ADAMTS13 ratio, soluble P-selectin, platelet activation signatures) for patient selection; and conducting adequately powered trials with rigorous bleeding endpoints.},
}

Humans
*Blood Platelets/metabolism/pathology
*COVID-19/blood/complications/pathology
*Thrombosis/pathology/metabolism/drug therapy/etiology/blood
*Hemostasis
*SARS-CoV-2
*Inflammation/pathology/metabolism
von Willebrand Factor/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid41805007,
year = {2026},
author = {Bhattacharjee, M and Bérubé, J and Durand, M and Rousseau, S and Zawati, MH},
title = {The Biobanque Québécoise de la COVID-19: Anticipate to Innovate.},
journal = {Biopreservation and biobanking},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {19475535261429759},
doi = {10.1177/19475535261429759},
pmid = {41805007},
issn = {1947-5543},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the urgent need for strong biobanking infrastructures to facilitate rapid research and innovation in public health emergencies. The COVID-19 Québec Biobank (BQC19), launched in March 2020, serves as a pioneering initiative to address this demand, enabling the collection, storage, and sharing of biological samples and data to advance diagnostics, therapeutics, and epidemiological research. This article examines the development and operational framework of BQC19, highlighting five key themes central to its success. First, BQC19's anticipatory governance model emphasizes adaptability, leveraging strategic foresight to maintain ethical and efficient operations during the pandemic. Second, the initiative's harmonized yet flexible consent processes ensured participant autonomy and compliance with evolving clinical and public health contexts. Third, BQC19's collaborative governance framework facilitated seamless interinstitutional cooperation, supported by standardized operating procedures and localized manuals of procedures. Fourth, streamlined data access mechanisms, managed by an independent data access committee, promoted ethical and equitable data sharing, balancing privacy considerations with research accessibility. Last, BQC19 demonstrates the transferability of its infrastructure to other health challenges, providing a scalable, ethical, and collaborative model for future public health crises. Through centralized data management, preestablished legal agreements, and tiered access protocols, BQC19 has significantly reduced response times and operational inefficiencies. Its achievements showcase the potential of biobanks in fostering global health collaboration, enabling rapid research mobilization, and addressing emerging health threats. BQC19's legacy lies in its ability to integrate innovation, ethics, and collaboration into a sustainable framework for public health preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid41805020,
year = {2026},
author = {Uddin, ME and Asaduzzaman, M and Ahmad, T and Ahmed, S and Kundu, SK and Khan, MMH and Islam, MM and Hossen, MM and Sheikh, MR and Sheikh, MMI},
title = {Vitamin D and Zinc in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Immunomodulatory Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence.},
journal = {Viral immunology},
volume = {39},
number = {3},
pages = {97-112},
doi = {10.1177/08828245261426982},
pmid = {41805020},
issn = {1557-8976},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamin D/therapeutic use/immunology ; *Zinc/therapeutic use/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Dietary Supplements ; Immunomodulation ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in approximately 778 million reported cases and over 7 million deaths worldwide as of August 2025 (WHO COVID-19 Dashboard), predominantly due to variable acute and chronic lung infections accompanied by inflammatory responses within the pulmonary tract and vasculature. Despite ongoing research, no definitive cure has been identified. Preventive measures, including vaccines and monoclonal antibody-based interventions, have been developed to protect vulnerable populations, and hundreds of therapeutic candidates have been evaluated worldwide. Complementing these strategies, vitamin D and zinc (Zn) supplementation have emerged as promising, accessible adjunctive strategies due to their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. This review synthesizes current experimental, clinical, and epidemiological evidence on the roles of vitamin D and Zn in modulating immune responses relevant to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Available data suggest that adequate vitamin D and Zn status may support immune function, reduce excessive inflammation, and potentially mitigate disease severity, particularly in deficient individuals. However, clinical trial outcomes remain heterogeneous. Overall, vitamin D and Zn supplementation may be considered supportive, adjunctive preventive measures. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to define their optimal use in COVID-19 prevention and management.},
}

Humans
*Vitamin D/therapeutic use/immunology
*Zinc/therapeutic use/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Dietary Supplements
Immunomodulation
Animals

@article {pmid41806061,
year = {2026},
author = {Moyue, X and Liang, S and Ying, X and Yang, Y and Dongang, Z},
title = {Research progress of nucleocapsid protein of novel coronavirus: structure, function and targeted therapy.},
journal = {Archives of virology},
volume = {171},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41806061},
issn = {1432-8798},
support = {National Natural Science Foundation of China//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41806408,
year = {2026},
author = {Atluri, S and Al Masud, A and Islam, MS and Duong, MC and Seale, H},
title = {Examining the proposed role of civil society and non-governmental organisations in the implementation of AMR national action plans: A global policy review.},
journal = {Public health},
volume = {254},
number = {},
pages = {106237},
doi = {10.1016/j.puhe.2026.106237},
pmid = {41806408},
issn = {1476-5616},
mesh = {Humans ; *Organizations ; *Health Policy ; Global Health ; *Drug Resistance, Microbial ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) have long supported public health programs by delivering services, raising awareness, and advocating for policy change. Despite their key role in addressing complex health issues like HIV and COVID-19, their involvement in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) strategies remains underexplored. This study reviews how CSOs and NGOs are framed within AMR National Action Plans (NAPs) to better understand their role in mitigating AMR.

STUDY DESIGN: Policy review.

METHODS: A content analysis of publicly available AMR NAPs was conducted using key terms related to CSOs and NGOs. Relevant excerpts were coded across seven focus areas of engagement, with multiple reviewers to ensure consistency. Data were analysed thematically to identify patterns in CSO and NGO involvement across countries.

RESULTS: Of the 194 WHO member states, 129 (63%) AMR National Action Plans (NAPs) were available and reviewed, with 27% inclusive of 2025. References to CSOs appeared in 40% of NAPs, and NGOs in 51%, though the extent and specificity of their roles varied widely. CSO involvement was most commonly associated with advocacy, particularly in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs), while education, prevention, surveillance, and resource mobilisation were less frequently addressed. Participation in government committees and policy-making was limited.

CONCLUSIONS: The study revealed that referenced CSO and NGO involvement is often broad and lacks specificity. These findings underscore the need for more precise and context-specific inclusion of CSOs in AMR strategies to enhance their contribution to policy implementation and community-level action.},
}

Humans
*Organizations
*Health Policy
Global Health
*Drug Resistance, Microbial

@article {pmid41807825,
year = {2026},
author = {Ott, PA},
title = {The promises and challenges of neoantigen cancer vaccines.},
journal = {Nature biotechnology},
volume = {44},
number = {5},
pages = {740-751},
pmid = {41807825},
issn = {1546-1696},
support = {R01 CA229261/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; R01 CA229261/CA/NCI NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use ; *Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics ; *Neoplasms/immunology/therapy ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Transformational advances in genomic sequencing capabilities, vastly improved HLA class I epitope prediction algorithms and powerful delivery platforms have facilitated the clinical development of vaccines targeting neoantigens encoded by tumor mutations. Early clinical trials indicate that vaccination against neoantigens can induce robust and durable T cell immunity that may persist for decades. mRNA vaccines, originally developed for cancer applications, have demonstrated considerable promise due to their efficacy and scalable production, as evidenced during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. However, the optimal cancer vaccine platform and delivery strategy is not yet known, as current approaches have not been compared head-to-head and substantial technological advances to improve immunogenicity and potentially clinical efficacy are achievable. For example, lipid-based formulations, while necessary for the effective delivery of mRNA vaccines, may also improve the immunogenicity of peptides and other delivery strategies. Here we review the current state of neoantigen vaccines in the clinic and highlight emerging opportunities for advancement in the field.},
}

Humans
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use
*Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics
*Neoplasms/immunology/therapy
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid41808188,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahon, N and Hays, LMC and Coy, E and Ainscough, K and Burrell, A and Gordon, AC and Rochwerg, B and Wang, CM and Harvey, D and Parekh, D and Goligher, E and Toal, F and Saito, H and Marshall, JC and Stewart, J and Gobat, N and Webb, S and Tolppa, T and McAuley, DF and Nichol, AD},
title = {Views on consent approaches used in emergency and critical care research: a rapid, systematic review.},
journal = {Trials},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41808188},
issn = {1745-6215},
support = {NIHR155209//Health Technology Assessment Programme/ ; NIHR154493//Efficacy and Mechanism Evaluation Programme/ ; CTN-2021-010/HRBI_/Health Research Board/Ireland ; DIFA-2023-025/HRBI_/Health Research Board/Ireland ; APRO-2023-017/HRBI_/Health Research Board/Ireland ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Informed Consent/ethics ; *Critical Care/ethics ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Obtaining informed consent can be challenging in emergency and critical care research due to the acute and severe nature of the patient's condition. However, such research is urgently needed to inform practice and optimise patient outcomes. While alternative consent approaches have been commonly used, opinions may vary, particularly among diverse and underserved patient groups and in the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this review was to assess views of alternative consent methods in emergency and critical care research.

METHODS: We conducted a rapid systematic review to understand diverse opinions of alternative consent models used in emergency and critical care research with searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Web of Science and CENTRAL carried out to July 31, 2024. We included quantitative and qualitative studies and summarised findings using narrative synthesis. We specifically investigated underserved groups and consent in the pandemic setting.

RESULTS: From 9974 citations, we screened 289 full-text articles, and included 145 eligible studies from 26 countries. Consent methods included prospective informed consent, deferred consent, surrogate decision maker consent, healthcare professional consent and waived consent. Groups represented included previous trial participants, relatives of trial participants, patients, members of the general public, healthcare providers, researchers, site staff, and research ethics committees. It was recognised that prospective informed consent from the patient is not possible in all scenarios. In general, alternative consent models were acceptable, with emphasis on the inclusion of the patient and relatives in the decision-making process whenever possible. Acceptability of alternative consent models was influenced by previous research participation, experience of critical or emergency illness, perceived risk of participation, and invasiveness of the intervention. Study staff highlighted potential limitations of some alternative consent models, such as unavailability of relatives. Pandemic studies showed an increased need for alternative consent methods, and greater preparedness and engagement with ethics committees to facilitate implementation. Sub-analysis evaluating the views of underserved groups did not show consensus, and accommodations were largely not reported.

CONCLUSION: Alternative consent models used for emergency, critical care and pandemic research including deferred consent, relative/surrogate decision maker consent, and physician consent were generally acceptable.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42023408305 (April 19, 2023).},
}

Humans
*Informed Consent/ethics
*Critical Care/ethics
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41809272,
year = {2026},
author = {Zarkadi, A and Katotomichelakis, M and Chaidas, K},
title = {Long-Term Olfactory Dysfunction in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e103143},
pmid = {41809272},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Olfactory dysfunction (OD) emerged early in the COVID-19 pandemic as a prevalent and often persistent symptom. While most individuals recover within weeks, a significant proportion continue to suffer from long-term impairments, including both quantitative and qualitative sensory deficits. Our review aimed to summarize current evidence on long-term post-COVID-19 OD with a duration of at least three months, including prevalence, recovery trajectory, and prognostic factors. The PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for relevant studies up to August 2024 following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Twenty-one studies were ultimately included, involving over 4,000 individuals. A remarkable proportion of patients continue to experience persistent dysfunction post-infection for a period ranging from several months to over two years. Qualitative disorders, such as parosmia and phantosmia, frequently appeared during recovery. Prognosis seemed to be related to age, initial severity, duration of OD, co-existing symptoms, and potentially sex. A consistent discrepancy between subjective reports and objective psychophysical test results was observed. Methodological heterogeneity limited comparability across studies. Olfactory dysfunction is a significant and often overlooked long-term complication of COVID-19. Standardized diagnostic criteria, validated outcome measures, and prospective longitudinal research are urgently needed to guide evidence-based management and improve patient outcomes.},
}