RevDate: 2026-02-03
CmpDate: 2026-02-03

Halabi S, Arora N, Durran A, et al (2026)

No fault vaccine injury compensation after COVID-19: A systematic literature review and proposed typology.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 22(1):2620849.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a unique and rapid period of global vaccine innovation. It revealed structural challenges not only in global vaccine affordability and distribution but in the liability and indemnity structures that can both impede access and affect fair outcomes for the small number of people who suffer severe side effects. This review examines vaccine injury and compensation mechanisms, including no-fault compensation schemes, aimed at addressing both the liability and indemnity concerns of developers and the compensation due those suffering severe side effects. The ultimate aim of the review is to provide a classification of systems for those countries that are considering adopting NFCS as part of their broader public health readiness and preparedness strategies.

RevDate: 2026-02-07

Meşe EA, Basmaci F, Bulut AC, et al (2026)

The role of extended reality technologies in hygiene education and training: a systematic review of applications, benefits, and challenges.

BMC infectious diseases, 26(1):272.

BACKGROUND: The emergence of the Metaverse and Extended Reality (XR) technologies, including Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), has created innovative opportunities for healthcare education and training. These immersive technologies show promise in enhancing infection prevention and control, especially during infectious disease outbreaks.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aims to evaluate the current application of XR technologies in infection control education, identifying key trends, benefits, and limitations of VR and AR-based interventions.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on January 12, 2025, for the Web of Science and PubMed databases using keywords related to hygiene, infection prevention, and XR technologies. An initial pool of 162 articles was screened, resulting in 38 studies that met inclusion criteria. These studies were descriptively analyzed to assess their contributions, focus areas, and outcomes.

RESULTS: The review indicates most studies show XR tools effectively improve practical skills, behaviors, or attitudes, while a smaller number reveal limited or no significant gains, especially in knowledge and compliance. This result shows that XR tools have the potential to improve knowledge retention, practical skills, and provide real-time feedback, outperforming traditional training methods. XR tools specifically enhanced hand hygiene, proper use of personal protective equipment, and emergency response training, areas critical during outbreaks like COVID-19. Nevertheless, widespread adoption remains limited due to the need for more long-term efficacy data and strategies for integrating XR into standard curricula. To fully realize this potential, it is essential to address existing limitations related to cost, safety, and validation, while establishing robust frameworks for curriculum integration and policy implementation.

CONCLUSION: XR technologies play a crucial role in advancing infection control education by offering potential benefits for healthcare training and education. Future research should prioritize evaluating long-term outcomes and developing effective implementation strategies to facilitate broader adoption, maximize their educational impact and, and mitigate potential barriers.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

RevDate: 2026-02-08
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Kshatriya M, Syal R, Als D, et al (2026)

Implementation of health and health-related sustainable development goals: progress, challenges and opportunities-a systematic literature review update.

BMJ global health, 11(2):.

INTRODUCTION: A prior systematic review assessed progress in health and health-related sustainable development goals (HHSDGs) from 2015 to 2019, identifying an important need for countries to strengthen implementation of multisectoral work, capacity building, financial stability and data availability. We undertook an updated systematic review to assess additional progress, challenges and opportunities for HHSDG implementation from 2019 to 2025, including the pandemic periods. This update aims to assess where countries are presently in HHSDG implementation and if further recommendations can be made in the final stretch to the 2030 targets.

METHODS: We followed a comparable comprehensive search strategy as the first review, focusing on implementation and acceleration strategies for HHSDGs. We undertook a qualitative synthesis from peer-reviewed and grey literature for specific databases, including studies and reports published from June 2019 to January 2025.

RESULTS: A total of 192 publications were included in the review of which 150 provided national-level information and 42 provided multicountry or regional information. Findings suggest a high level of political commitment in most countries and many HHSDG efforts being aligned with existing national development strategies. There was a noteworthy shift towards decentralised, subnational approaches to provide contextually relevant interventions. Multisectoral, multistakeholder, integrated approaches for implementation are increasing and proving to be effective. Diverse monitoring and evaluation strategies were employed, and (cross-country) knowledge sharing was instrumental to SDG policy and programme planning. Service disruptions incurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of quality data and obtaining sustainable funding were frequently cited challenges to implementation.

CONCLUSIONS: Ensuring continuous financial investments and strengthening data availability are essential to accelerate HHSDG implementation. Recommendations for progress include strengthening primary healthcare, fostering multisectoral collaboration and addressing deep-rooted societal perceptions around gender inequity. Future research should examine the interplay of multiple SDGs, and the impact of factors such as cost-effective cross-regional approaches for project implementation.

RevDate: 2026-02-05

Abu-Raddad LJ, Chemaitelly H, Wald A, et al (2026)

Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Screening in Persons with and Without HIV: Evidence, Challenges, and Future Directions.

Current HIV/AIDS reports, 23(1):3.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections worldwide, with implications for HIV acquisition, transmission, and disease progression. This review synthesizes current evidence and guidance on HSV-2 serologic screening, emphasizing its relevance for HIV prevention and care.

RECENT FINDINGS: International guidelines advise against routine general population-level serologic screening for HSV-2 in asymptomatic persons. Key limitations include poor test specificity, the absence of potent antivirals or therapeutic vaccines, lack of curative therapy, no demonstrated population-level benefit, and psychosocial harms associated with diagnosis. Current practice instead emphasizes diagnostic testing in symptomatic persons and targeted screening in defined contexts—such as among people with HIV in specific clinical situations, sex partners of those with HSV-2 infection, certain pregnant women, persons seeking sexual health care, and persons with recurrent or atypical symptoms—where results may directly inform management. Emerging technologies, including highly specific assays, novel potent antivirals, therapeutic vaccines, and curative strategies, may eventually shift the cost–benefit balance of general screening. 

SUMMARY: Evidence supports targeted rather than general population-level screening to maximize clinical benefit while minimizing harm. New evidence demonstrating that interventions can achieve measurable population-level reductions in disease burden or transmission, together with future advances in diagnostics and therapeutics, may eventually justify integrating routine HSV-2 screening into broader contexts, including into HIV prevention and care.

RevDate: 2026-02-02
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Malik J, Singh S, Shrivastav D, et al (2026)

Therapeutic milestones against multidrug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii: from legacy antibiotics to Zosurabalpin.

Archives of microbiology, 208(4):177.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Acinetobacter baumannii represents a critical global health challenge, particularly in intensive care settings where the pathogen causes severe, refractory infections. As a leading member of the ESKAPE group, A. baumannii has accumulated extensive resistance to multiple antibiotic classes, including carbapenems, resulting in the widespread emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and pan-drug-resistant (PDR) strains. This review provides a chronological overview of the evolution of antimicrobial therapies used against A. baumannii, spanning the early era of penicillins and tetracyclines to contemporary agents such as eravacycline and ceftazidime-avibactam. We delineate the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance development, including carbapenemase production, robust RND efflux systems, horizontal gene transfer, biofilm formation, and the global dissemination of high-risk international clones (IC1-IC9). The compounding impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the spread of carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) is also examined. A special emphasis is placed on Zosurabalpin, a first-in-class macrocyclic peptide antibiotic with a unique mechanism of action that targets the LptB2FG complex essential for lipooligosaccharide (LOS) transport and outer membrane assembly. Preclinical data and emerging clinical findings highlight its potent activity against highly resistant CRAB strains and its ability to circumvent conventional resistance pathways, marking it as a promising candidate in the antimicrobial pipeline. Finally, we evaluate the limitations of current treatment modalities and explore emerging strategies, including phage therapy, novel target discovery, and non-traditional therapeutics, offering a forward-looking perspective on restoring and sustaining effective anti-Acinetobacter interventions.

RevDate: 2026-02-05
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Maxwell L, Shreedhar P, Merson L, et al (2026)

How to conduct an individual participant data meta-analysis in response to an emerging pathogen: Lessons learned from Zika and COVID-19.

Research synthesis methods, 17(1):1-29.

Sharing, harmonizing, and analyzing participant-level data is of central importance in the rapid research response to emerging pathogens. Individual participant data meta-analyses (IPD-MAs), which synthesize participant-level data from related primary studies, have several advantages over pooling study-level effect estimates in a traditional meta-analysis. IPD-MAs enable researchers to more effectively separate spurious heterogeneity related to differences in measurement from clinically relevant heterogeneity from differences in underlying risk or distribution of factors that modify disease progression. This tutorial describes the steps needed to conduct an IPD-MA of an emerging pathogen and how IPD-MAs of emerging pathogens differ from those of well-studied exposures and outcomes. We discuss key statistical issues, including participant- and study-level missingness and complex measurement error, and present recommendations. We review how IPD-MAs conducted during the COVID-19 response addressed these statistical challenges when harmonizing and analyzing participant-level data related to an emerging pathogen. The guidance presented here is based on lessons learned in our conduct of IPD-MAs in the research response to emerging pathogens, including Zika virus and COVID-19.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

de Jong M, de Korne-Elenbaas J, Fanoy E, et al (2025)

Public health actions in response to pathogen detection in wastewater and the environment: a scoping review.

Frontiers in public health, 13:1675742.

INTRODUCTION: Rapid detection of infectious disease agents is crucial for timely public health responses. Wastewater and environmental surveillance (WES) offers a complementary approach by detecting pathogens shed by infected individuals, including asymptomatic cases. This scoping review provides an overview of reported public health actions in response to WES for human pathogens. It also summarizes sampling and analysis methods and offers insights for future implementation.

METHODS: The protocol for this review was registered in the PROCEED open-access registry. A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science for peer-reviewed literature published up to 31 July 2024. Studies were included if they reported public health actions in response to WES related to infectious diseases in human populations. Two reviewers independently screened studies and extracted data on public health responses, sampling, and analytical methods.

RESULTS: Of the 6,630 articles screened, 49 met the inclusion criteria. Most studies (92%) were published between 2021 and 2024, with SARS-CoV-2 as the primary focus (82%), followed by poliovirus (16%). Research was largely conducted in high-income regions: North America (51%), Asia (22%), and Europe (14%). Target populations included urban residents (57%) and on-campus students (31%) and local authorities were more often involved in WES efforts than national agencies (51% vs. 33%). In 75% of studies, at least two public health actions were implemented, and 20% reported five or more. The most common actions related to reactive disease control (n = 69), including testing, isolation, and contact tracing. Proactive disease control actions (n = 33) and public health communication (n = 22) were also described. Weekly sampling (57%) and composite methods (67%) were most used. Manhole sampling, despite equal frequency with treatment plant sampling (35%), led to significantly more public health actions (61 vs. 35). Long-term surveillance was often reported but rarely sustained. Quantitative and molecular analyses dominated; sequencing was rarely used (4%).

CONCLUSION: While reporting on public health actions following WES remains limited, this review illustrates its potential to inform timely, local interventions. Future studies should broaden pathogen targets, embed public health action planning in study design, and expand WES use in low-resource settings.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Chikuse D, Badacho AS, Uwimana-Nicol J, et al (2026)

The Landscape on Access to Maternal and Child Health Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic in South Africa: A Scoping Review.

Interdisciplinary perspectives on infectious diseases, 2026:9065224.

BACKGROUND: In early March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic. In South Africa, the first case was confirmed in early March 2020. According to the WHO, disruptions in essential services due to the COVID-19 pandemic occurred worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic affected access to maternal and child health (MCH) services in many countries, including South Africa. The study aimed to map and describe the existing evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the access to and delivery of maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) services in South Africa.

METHODOLOGY: This was a scoping review of studies published between 2020 and 2023. We searched databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, EBSCOhost, and Google Scholar. Data were exported to the Rayyan software, where screening, checking of duplicates, and selection of final studies for review were performed. The information from the identified studies was exported to ATLAS.ti 23.1 software for analysis. Content analysis was performed, and data were presented in predetermined themes using the MCH cascade.

RESULTS: The results from 25 articles showed a mixed view, whereby some studies showed a decrease at the beginning of the pandemic in April 2020, in the uptake of family planning, antenatal care, labor and delivery, postnatal care, under-five immunizations, and cervical cancer screening services. However, other studies found increased uptake of family planning, antenatal care, labor and delivery, and under-five immunization services. Some studies showed resilience in the overall first antenatal visits, adolescents' visits to family planning, and postnatal care, as they remained constant.

CONCLUSION: The findings show both positive and negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on MNCH services in South Africa. While the pandemic significantly disrupted access to essential services, some areas demonstrated resilience, with increased visits for antenatal care, adolescent family planning, and postnatal services. These insights are critical for guiding decision-makers, health managers, and frontline healthcare workers in preparing for future public health emergencies. Ensuring continuity of MNCH services during crises must be a priority. Strengthening the health system and building resilience are essential to safeguard MCH, even in the face of disruptions.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Bai Y, Ma Y, X Li (2026)

The research progress of ferroptosis in acute lung injury.

Biochemistry and biophysics reports, 45:102434.

Ferroptosis, an iron-dependent form of regulated cell death driven by lipid peroxidation, is increasingly recognized as a pivotal mechanism in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury (ALI) and its severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Its core molecular machinery, including glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4), and the cystine/glutamate antiporter system Xc-, becomes dysregulated across various ALI subtypes, such as sepsis, ischemia-reperfusion, and COVID-19.This review delineates how ferroptosis contributes to ALI through iron overload, uncontrolled lipid peroxidation, and failure of antioxidant defenses, ultimately leading to pulmonary endothelial and epithelial cell death. We further summarize subtype-specific mechanisms and evaluate emerging therapeutic strategies, including ferroptosis inhibitors (e.g., liproxstatin-1), Nrf2 activators, and iron chelators, highlighting their potential for targeted intervention in ALI/ARDS.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Navid Talemi M, Ramezani Farani M, Alipour Eskandani N, et al (2026)

Programmable lipid nanoparticles for RNA therapeutics: Design principles and clinical translation.

Materials today. Bio, 37:102774.

RNA therapeutics have come of age as clinically validated modalities including mRNA, siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), and in vivo genome editing, with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as the main non-viral delivery system. This review defines programmable LNPs as systems whose composition and interfacial chemistry are tuned to control organ tropism, cell specificity, intracellular trafficking, and immune interactions. We summarize design rules across four core components (ionizable lipid, phospholipid, cholesterol, PEG-lipid) and highlight levers like apparent pKa optimization (∼6-7 for hepatic delivery), biodegradable linkers, PEG-anchor-dependent shedding, ligands (e.g., GalNAc), and selective organ-targeting (SORT) lipids that redirect biodistribution beyond the liver. We survey advances in data-guided formulation, including DNA-barcoded in vivo libraries, machine learning, and physics-based prediction, plus scalable manufacturing (microfluidics, confined impinging-jet mixing, tangential-flow filtration) and Quality-by-Design with process-analytical technologies. A comprehensive characterization toolkit (size/ζ-potential, cryo-EM/SAXS, RNA encapsulation and integrity, apparent pKa, in vivo barcoding) maps to critical quality attributes. Applications span vaccines, protein replacement, siRNA/ASO delivery, and CRISPR platforms, with clinical examples like patisiran, COVID-19 and RSV mRNA vaccines, in-human transthyretin (TTR) editing, and individualized melanoma vaccination. We analyze translational constraints like endosomal escape, reactogenicity and anti-PEG immunity, complement activation, and lot-to-lot control, plus success factors: corona-aware design, dose-efficient potency at low lipid burden, redosing strategies, and fit-for-purpose biomarkers. Together, programmable LNPs offer a generalizable path to extrahepatic, cell-aware RNA medicine when coupled to rigorous analytics and platform manufacturing.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Kokubun K (2026)

Workplace Safety Management Practices, Fear, Resources, and Employee Involvement During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review.

AJPM focus, 5(2):100456.

INTRODUCTION: There are important workplace health lessons to be learned from the pandemic.

METHODS: This study summarizes the relationships between workplace safety practices, fear, resources, and employee engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic through a narrative review on articles published between January 2020 and June 2025 using a primary literature search base.

RESULTS: Organizations have had to implement workplace safety management practices aligned with their occupational safety and health management systems in response to COVID-19. Safety management practices include safety initiatives and training as well as employee involvement. Methods to increase employee involvement include fear and anxiety. However, although fear and anxiety promote safety compliance and safe behavior, they also wear down employees and increase their work distraction and turnover intentions. Therefore, social and psychological resources need to be strengthened to overcome this dilemma. These resources can also help safety management practices today as the pandemic begins to wind down.

CONCLUSIONS: Future research should focus on identifying ways to strengthen employees' social and psychological resources without relying on disasters. To this end, an integration of conservation of resource theory and behavioral theory may be useful.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Bradway M, Wang B, Nybakke HL, et al (2025)

Rethinking the digital divide in health: a critical interpretive synthesis of research literature.

Frontiers in digital health, 7:1683565.

BACKGROUND: The digital divide in health has rapidly expanded during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, with fragmented understanding and an unclear implementation process, for the formal integration of digital health into the healthcare system, which challenges actionable policy development.

METHODS: This critical interpretive synthesis (CIS) of the literature aimed to capture the complexity of the digital divide in health. This began with a scoping review of literature published between 2013 and 2023 describing the digital divide in health within the WHO's European Region, in Web of Science, Medline (via Ovid), PsycInfo (via Ovid), and Sociological Abstract (via ProQuest). Three sets of two reviewers independently conducted the selection, and all contributed to the synthesis process.

RESULTS: Of 4,967 original articles identified, 49 articles were included for review. Results revealed a synthesizing argument that the digital divide should be considered as more of a dynamic, entangled, and reciprocal collection of "areas" of phenomenon affecting service users, rather than "levels". Results describe the three synthetic constructs that describe this synthesizing argument.

CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that digital health solutions should respectfully consider the pace of human healing, long-term user engagement and adaptability. We call for the importance of inter- and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure effective and context-sensitive implementation in future studies.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Shang S, Wang X, Zhang E, et al (2026)

Digital interventions to promote vaccine uptake among older adults: A systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Digital health, 12:20552076261416313.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate the effect of digital intervention on improving routine vaccination in the elderly and to conduct a comparative analysis of different intervention modalities using network meta-analysis (NMA).

METHODS: PubMed, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and WanFang Data were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using digital interventions to promote vaccination in older populations from inception to 15 June 2024. We performed a final update of the literature search in May 2025; no additional eligible studies were identified. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias in the included studies, and an NMA was performed using RevMan 5.4 and R Studio, PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42024527483.

RESULTS: Eleven RCTs were included. The traditional meta-analysis demonstrated a small but statistically significant increase in influenza vaccination rates (RR = 1.01, 95% CI [1.01, 1.01], P < 0.00001), accompanied by substantial heterogeneity (I [2] = 86%). Pneumococcal vaccine uptake was significantly enhanced (RR = 1.11, 95% CI [1.03, 1.18], P < 0.01), with moderate heterogeneity (I [2] = 46%). The single study on the herpes zoster vaccine reported a statistically significant effect, whereas COVID-19 vaccine reminder interventions showed no significant efficacy. In the NMA, video-based interventions ranked first based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve, but all pairwise comparisons between different intervention modes crossed the null value.

CONCLUSION: Digital interventions show a significant, yet highly heterogeneous, positive impact on vaccination rates in older adults. While video-based education showed the highest ranking probability, the current evidence is insufficient to conclude that any specific digital modality is statistically superior to others. Due to the limited included studies, the findings need to be supplemented by more high-quality studies. Future research should focus on newer digital technologies to help the older population keep up with the "digital intelligence era."

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Birla S, Angural A, Madathumchalil A, et al (2026)

"Bridging the clinical, molecular and genetic perspectives on myocarditis in post-COVID-19 era".

International journal of cardiology. Cardiovascular risk and prevention, 28:200576.

Myocarditis is a non-familial inflammatory manifestation of the myocardium, primarily induced by viral infections, but it may also stem from bacterial pathogens, autoimmune disorders, or adverse drug reactions. Its diagnosis remains challenging due to heterogeneous and often non-specific clinical presentations. Recent epidemiological studies have indicated a markedly increased incidence of myocarditis following SARS-CoV-2 infection and mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations (to a lesser extent) compared to pre-pandemic statistics. While a significant number of cases follow a mild and self-limiting disease course, severe manifestations can lead to arrhythmias, heart failure, or even sudden cardiac death. Importantly, accumulating evidence indicates that even mild myocarditis confers an elevated long-term risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Beyond clinical and imaging-based observations, recent advances highlight a critical role for host genetic susceptibility in modulating immune responses, myocardial injury, and disease severity. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the etiology, pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical spectrum, diagnostic approaches, and evidence-based management of COVID-19-associated myocarditis, while critically integrating emerging genetic and transcriptomic insights that may explain disease heterogeneity, variable inter-individual susceptibility, and long-term prognosis. By bridging clinical aspects with molecular and genetic frameworks, this review underscores the importance of personalized risk stratification, vigilant post-recovery surveillance, and targeted preventive strategies in the post-pandemic era.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-02-02

Sumo R, S Jong (2025)

Use of Blockchain Technology to Accelerate Digital Health Transformation Programs.

Blockchain in healthcare today, 8:.

Disruptive digital health technologies are reshaping how patients interact with health professionals, how data are shared among providers, and how treatment plans and health outcomes are determined. While the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies, challenges remain in realizing the potential of digital transformation programs in healthcare. Specifically, health data need to remain secure, usable, and shareable across multiple stakeholder groups in a world where silos between organizations and information systems persist. The implementation of innovative and disruptive digital technologies such as blockchain can offer a solution to these challenges. This article explores how blockchain technology can be used to accelerate digital health transformation programs. It provides an overview of the technology applications (i.e. data management, Internet of Medical Things [IoMT], supply chain management, and health insurance) and key players based on a literature review and secondary data. It also identifies challenges and success factors in implementing blockchain in healthcare. At the organizational level, we discuss the careful planning and specialized expertise required to overcome the technical, regulatory, and adoption-related hurdles associated with implementing blockchain technology. At the system level, the authors discuss the regulatory constraints, standardization and interoperability issues, and stakeholder engagement challenges linked to implementing blockchain technology.

RevDate: 2026-02-02

Ferrari F, Goulart CDL, Franzoni LT, et al (2026)

Effects of different exercise training modalities in post-COVID-19 individuals: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Disability and rehabilitation [Epub ahead of print].

PURPOSE: Although the COVID-19 pandemic has ended, long-term effects persist. Exercise training (ET) supports recovery, but evidence on optimal modalities is limited. This study evaluated the effects of different ET modalities in post-COVID-19 individuals.

METHODS: A systematic search identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) up to 23 September 2025, involving adults with COVID-19. Studies compared ≥4-week interventions-aerobic training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or combined training (aerobic plus resistance training)-with usual care (UC). Risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed using RoB 2.0 and GRADE.

RESULTS: Eighteen RCTs (N = 1171) were included. Interventions varied in intensity and duration. Most studies had "some concerns" regarding bias, and overall certainty of evidence was low to very low. Overall, ET modalities were associated with improvements in functional capacity (VO2peak or six-minute walk distance) and muscle strength, although not all studies showed significant differences vs. UC. HIIT demonstrated the greatest VO2peak gain (mean difference: 6.17 ml.kg[-1].min[-1]). Effects on quality of life, anxiety, and depression were inconsistent. Most cardiopulmonary parameters (VE/VCO2 slope, OUES) showed no significant changes, with mixed results for O2 pulse and ventilation.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite heterogeneous protocols and low certainty of evidence, structured ET appears beneficial for post-COVID-19 recovery. Multiple ET approaches may be effective rather than a single "optimal" approach.

RevDate: 2026-02-02

Hussain I, Rasul A, Hassan M, et al (2026)

Lariciresinol: a potent natural compound with diverse therapeutic and health benefits.

Natural product research [Epub ahead of print].

Scientific research has identified lariciresinol among lignan types, which shows potential against cancer development and bacterial infections in addition to serving as an antioxidant that affects oestrogen activity while blocking inflammation. The review analyses the detailed medical and biological properties of lariciresinol. The two Brassicaceae plant genera Isatis indigotica and Brassica oleracea contain this substance, which exists in various plant types. The compound demonstrated anticancer properties through its mechanisms of stopping cancer cell multiplication and triggering programmed cell death. Recent research found that lariciresinol can block the function of the virus that causes COVID-19 by reducing its ability to enter the cells and proliferate. Lariciresinol antiviral actions have been shown to reduce RNA and viral protein production. The diverse impacts indicate that lariciresinol is a potential compound for novel health solutions and future therapeutic innovations.

RevDate: 2026-02-01
CmpDate: 2026-02-01

Milner KA, S Marmo (2026)

Open Visitation: Enabling Family Presence, Centered Care, and Engagement in Intensive Care Unit.

Critical care nursing clinics of North America, 38(1):151-164.

Family-centered care (FCC) emphasizes collaboration, dignity, respect, and shared decision-making between families and health care teams. In the ICU, FCC relies on family presence at the bedside, facilitated by open visitation policies. However, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted this model, as restrictive visitation policies eliminated family presence, leading to adverse outcomes such as loneliness and delirium in patients, distress and grief among families, and moral injury and burnout in staff. As health systems recover, there is a need to reestablish FCC by prioritizing open visitation while balancing infection control and operational demands.

RevDate: 2026-02-05

Waclawovsky AJ, de Oliveira J, de Carvalho CP, et al (2026)

Higher physical activity is associated with reduced odds of depressive symptoms among university students: A meta-analysis of over 66,000 participants.

Journal of affective disorders, 401:121319 pii:S0165-0327(26)00170-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Depression is highly prevalent among university students, who also exhibit low levels of physical activity. Although physical activity is associated with a lower likelihood of depressive symptoms, the magnitude of its effect in this population has not been systematically assessed. This study reviewed and performed a meta-analysis of the association between physical activity and depressive symptoms in university students. The Embase, PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and SPORTDiscus databases were searched from inception to January 24, 2025, for relevant studies. Random-effects meta-analyses were used to calculate adjusted (aOR) and unadjusted (OR) odds ratios for depressive symptoms based on physical activity levels. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024591429). Twenty-two studies, involving 66,683 students (median age: 21 years, 56.5% female), were included. Students with higher levels of physical activity had lower odds of depressive symptoms compared to those with lower levels (adjusted OR = 0.614, 95% CI: 0.540-0.698, I[2] = 47.5%). Subgroup analyses revealed no differences between studies conducted during or outside the COVID-19 pandemic. Among students in health sciences programs, higher physical activity was associated with a 34% lower likelihood of depressive symptoms (adjusted OR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.49-0.88, I[2] = 33.2%). These findings indicate that increased physical activity is associated with a lower likelihood of depressive symptoms in university students, supporting its promotion as a mental health intervention.

RevDate: 2026-02-01

Ramatsokotla S, Soul B, Duah E, et al (2026)

Evidence of point-of-care diagnostics in forensic death investigations: A scoping review.

Journal of forensic and legal medicine, 118:103086 pii:S1752-928X(26)00018-1 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Point-of-care (POC) diagnostics represent promising health-technology tools capable of providing rapid, on-site analytical support for forensic investigations. This scoping review aimed to systematically map the available evidence on applying POC diagnostics in forensic investigations. The focus is on their potential ability to act as rapid screening and triage tools to assist in determining the cause of death and exploring the challenges and opportunities associated with their implementation on a global scale.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, ProQuest Central, Academic Search Complete, Africa Wide, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. Out of the 7603 records screened, four studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Reporting adhered to the PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

RESULTS: These studies demonstrated the expanding role of POC devices in various aspects of forensic investigations, including rapid triage in overdose cases, malaria diagnosis in travel-related deaths, SARS-CoV-2 screening, and hemoglobin testing in child deaths. These studies also highlighted the limitations of POC devices in the postmortem context, emphasizing the need for careful calibration, confirmation, and interpretation of the results. This review identified POC diagnostics as a potential bridge between forensic investigations and public health surveillance, with findings indicating both cause-of-death determination and broader public health strategies. Operational, ethical, and policy considerations for using POC devices in forensic investigations were also discussed.

CONCLUSION: This review revealed challenges in ensuring the standardization, accuracy, and integration of POC diagnostics into established forensic practices. Further research is required to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and performance of POC tools in forensic settings. Comprehensive guidelines and standardized operating procedures should be developed to ensure the successful implementation of POC diagnostics in forensic investigations. Given the limited and heterogeneous evidence, POC devices in forensic death investigations should be seen as preliminary aids rather than diagnostic instruments.

RevDate: 2026-02-01

Mogensen TH (2026)

Inborn errors of autophagy underlying severe viral infections in humans.

Current opinion in virology, 75:101510 pii:S1879-6257(26)00002-7 [Epub ahead of print].

Inborn errors of immunity can underlie susceptibility to severe viral infection in humans. and the majority relate to defective induction of or response to antiviral type I interferon (IFN). However there is increasing awareness of defects in other cellular processes, that can predispose to severe infectious disease. Recently, defects in autophagy-related genes or -processes have been demonstrated to predispose to life-threatening viral diseases, including defects in autophagy-related genes in patients with herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus infections in the central nervous system, as well as impairment of noncanonical antiviral immunity in critical COVID-19. However, the molecular mechanisms and complex intersections between autophagy, metabolism, cell death, and inflammation, and how defects in autophagy-related proteins may interfere with these cellular processes, are only now starting to emerge. This review presents the current knowledge on inborn errors of autophagy discovered in patients with severe viral infection and discusses some of the remaining knowledge gaps in our understanding of how autophagy processes act against viruses, how immunopathology and lack of viral control ensues when they fail, and how these insights may be translated into clinical medicine.

RevDate: 2026-02-01

De Los Reyes A, Talbott E, Yusuf A, et al (2026)

Lack of improvements in youth psychotherapies or lack of investments in detecting improvements? Future directions in psychological assessment.

Clinical psychology review, 124:102705 pii:S0272-7358(26)00014-0 [Epub ahead of print].

Youth were experiencing mental health crises before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following this onset, their needs for mental health services have only increased. Yet, researchers encounter barriers to confronting these crises. The effects of therapies tested in controlled trials in the present day appear to be no more potent than those of their predecessors tested in trials conducted decades ago. Across these decades of scholarly work, researchers have invested far more of their efforts toward improving technologies for therapies than they have toward improving technologies for the assessment tools used to estimate therapeutic effects. The tools used today look a lot like those used in the 1970s-mainly surveys and interviews-and our strategies for integrating the data these tools produce focus on the sliver of their data that converge or yield the same results about youth mental health. Decades of work reveal that these integration strategies are incompatible with the data conditions that typify youth mental health assessments. We must invest in innovative assessment tools and integration strategies that capitalize on all the valid data produced by these conditions. This paper details pioneering directions in future research about psychological assessment. We describe the conceptual foundations underlying these research directions and highlight recent work by the authors and others supporting this pursuit. If we empower the assessment researchers of today to develop technologically innovative assessment tools and integration strategies, then we equip the therapy researchers of tomorrow to demonstrate that investing in therapy technologies pays off.

RevDate: 2026-01-31

Xie H, Pan S, Zhang Z, et al (2026)

Antifungal prophylaxis among critically ill COVID-19 patients: a meta-analysis and systematic review.

BMC infectious diseases pii:10.1186/s12879-026-12694-z [Epub ahead of print].

RevDate: 2026-01-31

López-Padilla D, Poberezhets V, Roche N, et al (2026)

Telemonitoring in Respiratory Diseases: Current Evidence, Clinical Experience, and Future Challenges.

Archivos de bronconeumologia pii:S0300-2896(26)00013-X [Epub ahead of print].

This narrative review summarizes current evidence and clinical experience regarding telemonitoring across major respiratory diseases and care settings, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, interstitial lung diseases, obstructive sleep apnea, as well as non-invasive ventilation and pulmonary rehabilitation programmes. Advances in connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), and wearable devices are facilitating the early detection of clinical deterioration, personalized interventions, and improved self-management, thereby optimizing the use of healthcare resources. Strong evidence supports the benefits of telemonitoring in COPD, particularly in reducing exacerbations and hospital admissions, whereas results are more heterogeneous in asthma and emerging conditions such as interstitial lung diseases. Telemonitoring systems leverage AI-driven analytical frameworks and interoperable digital platforms to process and interpret large volumes of patient data, enabling both automated responses and targeted human interventions. Key challenges include ensuring patient engagement, addressing digital literacy and inequities in access, safeguarding data privacy, and integrating digital solutions into standard care and reimbursement frameworks. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemonitoring, confirming its feasibility and acceptability, but also revealed persistent gaps in long-term cost-effectiveness and implementation strategies. Future directions should focus on integrating telemonitoring with AI-supported, coordinated clinical decision-making, enhancing system interoperability, and above all, prioritizing equitable access to digital care. Telemonitoring is poised to become a central component of respiratory patient management, although its large-scale implementation will require overcoming existing technical, ethical, and organizational barriers to fully realize its clinical potential.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-01-31

Nesari AM, MotieGhader H, S Ghorbian (2026)

Advances and challenges in single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis: a comprehensive review.

Briefings in bioinformatics, 27(1):.

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has transformed the resolution of cellular heterogeneity, offering insights into dynamic biological processes from tumor evolution to immune regulation. However, its clinical translation is limited by challenges such as data sparsity, batch effects (differences caused by technical variation rather than biology), and the absence of standardized benchmarks for core pipelines like Seurat and Scanpy. This review outlines emerging computational strategies that address these limitations: (A) robust preprocessing, including SCTransform for zero-inflation(an excess of zero counts in gene-expression data) correction and Harmony for batch integration-achieving 30% faster alignment than BBKNN in cohorts exceeding 100,000 cells; (B) transformer-based annotation tools such as scGPT and CellTypist, which reach >95% accuracy in immune profiling using models pretrained on 33 million cells; and (C) multimodal integration with spatial transcriptomics (e.g., 10x Visium, cell2location v2), which delineate microenvironmental niches and rare CX3CR1+ T-cell subsets in disease contexts like glioblastoma and severe COVID-19. We further assess how scANVI bridges scRNA-seq and ATAC-seq to uncover epigenetic mechanisms underlying therapy resistance, and how spatial methods elucidate tumor-immune crosstalk at subcellular resolution. Despite these advances, ethical risks remain, particularly around re-identification of rare patient-derived clones such as pre-metastatic cells. To promote clinical adoption, we propose a roadmap that prioritizes benchmarked workflows (e.g., scverse ecosystem), privacy-aware data sharing via federated learning, and causal AI approaches to disentangle biological signal from technical artifact. By synthesizing computational innovations with translational case studies, this review equips researchers to navigate both the analytical and ethical complexities of scRNA-seq in pursuit of actionable diagnostics.

RevDate: 2026-01-31

Abbasi M, Najafizadeh K, Latifi M, et al (2026)

Impact of opt-in versus opt-out organ donation legislation on donation rates: A systematic review.

Journal of perioperative practice [Epub ahead of print].

PURPOSE: This systematic review analyses existing studies on organ donation rates from various countries to provide insights that may inform policy decisions and improve organ donation rates globally.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A systematic search was initially conducted on 3 October 2024 and updated on 20 October 2024 across electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Science Direct. Following an initial pilot screening, all unique references were screened by title and abstract, then full text, by at least two independent reviewers against predefined inclusion criteria. Disagreements between reviewers were resolved by double-checking at each step. Extracted data were compiled and summarised.

FINDING: Fifteen studies on organ donation policies were identified, with 13 high-quality studies included after rigorous screening. Based on these studies, opt-out consent systems show mixed outcomes across countries. Policy effectiveness varies significantly between nations. The COVID-19 pandemic substantially disrupted organ donation rates. Factors beyond legislation, such as public awareness, cultural attitudes, media campaigns, and health care infrastructure, also influence donation success.Practical impact:While presumed consent may increase deceased donor rates, it is not a universal solution. Effective organ donation strategies require a holistic approach involving public education, trust-building, and nuanced policy implementation tailored to specific national contexts.

RevDate: 2026-01-30
CmpDate: 2026-01-31

Seet SM, Tan YZ, Koh BMS, et al (2026)

Comparison of febrile seizures associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in pre-Omicron and Omicron-predominant periods: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

European journal of pediatrics, 185(2):115.

UNLABELLED: Emerging studies suggest increased febrile seizures during the Omicron period of SARS-CoV-2. This study compares the incidence of seizures before and during the Omicron variant period to determine if certain variants increase risk. Using PRISMA-P protocol, four databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science) were searched. Cohort studies reporting febrile seizures in children (up to 18 years of age) with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. We provide descriptive summaries of the incidence of febrile seizures across hospital, emergency, and community settings, as well as a meta-analysis between Omicron-predominant and pre-Omicron periods. We included 36 studies comprising 82,591 children with SARS-CoV-2 infection, of whom 2051 experienced febrile seizures. In 29 studies of hospitalized children with SARS-CoV-2, the incidence of febrile seizures varied widely, with a median of 7 per 100 (range 1.06-25.54) children. High heterogeneity was observed, and studies from emergency and community settings were underpowered. Seven studies found that unvaccinated children hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 had more febrile seizures during the Omicron-predominant (median 11.8 per 100) than during the pre-Omicron period (median 0.7 per 100). The pooled incidence was 11.27 per 100 cases for the Omicron-predominant and 0.66 per 100 for the pre-Omicron period (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION: There was a trend toward more reported febrile seizures among hospitalized children with SARS-CoV-2 during the Omicron-predominant than the pre-Omicron period. However, estimates are limited by small samples and moderate heterogeneity and should not be considered population-based incidences. We hypothesize that SARS-CoV-2 variants may influence febrile seizure risk in children; larger studies are needed to better understand this association. PROSPERO registration: CRD420251054193.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • Neurological complications, including febrile seizures, occur in children with SARS-CoV-2 infection. • Prior to the Omicron variant, febrile seizures were relatively uncommon in pediatric COVID-19 cases.

WHAT IS NEW: • There was a trend toward more reported febrile seizures among hospitalized children with SARS-CoV-2 during the Omicron-predominant period compared to the pre-Omicron period. • There are potential associations between SARS-CoV-2 variants and febrile seizure risks.

RevDate: 2026-01-30
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Alias A, Idrus IAM, Daring D, et al (2026)

Challenges in delivering healthcare services among immigrants from Southeast Asia: A scoping review.

The Medical journal of Malaysia, 81(1):163-171.

INTRODUCTION: Cross-border migration presents increasing challenges to healthcare systems globally. Ensuring equitable healthcare access for immigrant populations, particularly in Southeast Asia, requires a thorough understanding of the barriers to effective service delivery. This scoping review aimed to synthesize the existing literature on the challenges related to the delivery of healthcare services to immigrant communities from Southeast Asia. While previous studies (e.g., Brandenberger et al., 2019) applied the 3C framework to migrants and refugees globally, this review generates new insights by focusing specifically on Southeast Asia, a region underrepresented in the literature. By applying the 3C model in this context, our review identifies region-specific challenges, such as immigration policies, financial barriers, and COVID-19 impacts, that extend beyond the findings of earlier global reviews.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted in ProQuest, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases on October 13, 2024, for studies published between January 1, 2011, and October 13, 2024. The search strategy used tailored keywords, including "challenges," "healthcare services," "immigrants," and "Asia." Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed, English-language articles reporting on challenges in healthcare service delivery among immigrant populations in Southeast Asia. Data extraction and synthesis were guided by the 3C model: communication, continuation of care, and confidence in the healthcare system.

RESULTS: The search identified 656 records, of which 7 studies met the inclusion criteria after a multi-stage screening process. Key challenges identified across the included studies were: Communication barriers, including language differences, cultural misunderstandings, and limited health literacy; Issues with continuation of care, such as poor health literacy, difficulties navigating healthcare systems, barriers to accessing services (e.g., due to legal status or financial constraints), and lack of coordination between healthcare and social services; and Lack of confidence in the healthcare system, stemming from distrust, lack of understanding, and negative experiences, including perceived discrimination.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights the complex challenges in delivering healthcare services to immigrants from Southeast Asia. These challenges, encompassing communication, continuation of care, and confidence, necessitate targeted and multifaceted interventions. Addressing these issues through culturally competent care, enhanced communication strategies, and policy reforms that promote equitable access is crucial for improving the health and well-being of immigrant populations and fostering more inclusive healthcare systems within the region.

RevDate: 2026-01-30
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Beran J, J Slíva (2025)

The last ten years with inosine pranobex - from an "old" therapeutic agent to vaccine research, including anti-cancer vaccines.

Casopis lekaru ceskych, 164(7-8):321-323.

Inosine pranobex (IP), also known as inosine pranobex dimepranol, is an immunomodulatory drug with a history spanning more than fifty years. It was first introduced in the 1970s and has since been licensed in more than 50 countries around the world. It was originally considered a potential drug for AIDS, which raised high hopes at the time of the discovery of the HIV virus. However, after initial interest, its use in this area declined, and for a long time, IP was no longer discussed significantly in professional literature or clinical practice. Renewed interest came only in the last decade, when IP began to reappear in connection with the treatment of acute respiratory infections, diseases caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), and other viral diseases, including COVID-19. It also began to be used as an adjuvant in the foot-and-mouth disease vaccine, and research began on an IP-based anti-tumor vaccine.

RevDate: 2026-02-03
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Stoimeni A, Gkiourtzis N, Karatisidou V, et al (2025)

Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Pediatric Infections: A Systematic Review.

Current issues in molecular biology, 47(12):.

BACKGROUND: Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are granule- and nucleus-derived structures that support innate immunity. While the contribution of NETs to adult infections and autoimmune diseases is well studied, evidence in children is still inconsistent. This review aimed to summarize current findings on NETs in pediatric infections.

METHODS: This study followed the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted in major databases (MEDLINE/PubMed and Scopus) from inception until 5 September 2025. The study quality was evaluated using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS: Eleven studies were included in the systematic review. In respiratory disease, the role of NETs was well described and their formation correlated with severity. Patients with febrile urinary tract infections showed elevated urinary NET-associated markers. In COVID-19 infection, NET levels were unchanged in uncomplicated cases but elevated in multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Findings in sepsis were inconsistent.

CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review presents the published evidence on NET formation in the pediatric population, assessing the current knowledge and identifying the gaps to guide research. Future studies should aim to standardize NET detection methods, evaluate their prognostic value in large prospective cohorts, and explore the various NET-associated mechanisms in children.

RevDate: 2026-02-03
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Altamura C, Marinaccio L, Dimiccoli V, et al (2025)

Contribution of [18]F-Fluorodeoxyglucose to the Identification of Dubious Lesions Caused by SARS-CoV-2.

Current issues in molecular biology, 47(12):.

Coronavirus disease, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has caused a global health crisis. While RT-PCR remains the gold standard for diagnosis, its limited sensitivity, especially in the early stages, has highlighted the need for complementary diagnostic tools. Among these, [[18]F]FDG PET/CT has gained attention for its potential role in detecting inflammation and metabolic activity associated with COVID-19. This review aims to provide an overview of current diagnostic techniques for COVID-19 and to explore the application of [[18]F]FDG PET/CT imaging in the detection and monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infection. A comprehensive literature review was conducted on molecular, serological, and imaging-based diagnostic techniques for COVID-19, with a focus on the biological mechanism, clinical applications, and diagnostic performance of [[18]F]FDG PET/CT in COVID-19 patients. [[18]F]FDG PET/CT has demonstrated the ability to detect increased metabolic activity in COVID-19 associated pulmonary lesions, particularly ground-glass opacities, often preceding detectable morphological changes on CT. The imaging also revealed uptake in lymph nodes, bone marrow, and extrapulmonary tissues, reflecting systemic inflammation. [[18]F]FDG PET/CT represents a promising additional tool for the evaluation of inflammation and disease progression in COVID-19. However, further studies are required to define its role, optimize protocols, and assess its risk-benefit profile in the clinical setting.

RevDate: 2026-01-30

Okasha T, Shaker NM, Abdel Aziz K, et al (2026)

Egypt's innovations in mental health: bridging cultural heritage and digital psychiatry.

International review of psychiatry (Abingdon, England) [Epub ahead of print].

Egypt's mental-health landscape represents a unique continuum in which ancient cultural heritage, community-based healing traditions, and contextually adapted psychiatric strategies intersect with modern psychiatric innovations. This review explores how deeply rooted explanatory models continue to define help-seeking pathways and patient expectations. These cultural foundations exist alongside contemporary systemic challenges. In response, Egypt has pioneered contextually grounded adaptive approaches, such as task shifting, integrating mental health into primary care, and developing culturally-adapted psychosocial interventions led by trained non-specialists. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trajectory of modernization. Telepsychiatry services, nationwide psychosocial support hotlines, AI-driven tools, and the establishment of Egypt's dedicated psychiatric COVID-19 hospital highlight the country's capacity for rapid, context-sensitive adaptation to innovate while remaining anchored in its cultural fabric. Together, these developments illustrate how mental health systems can evolve by embracing tradition as a resource rather than a barrier, and by leveraging technology to expand equity, accessibility, and cultural relevance. This review positions Egypt as a powerful case study of how cultural heritage and adaptive, problem-driven strategies can be innovatively harmonized to shape the future of mental health care in the region, where originality lies in contextual responses rather than technological novelty.

RevDate: 2026-02-04
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Zhamaliyeva L, Batyrova A, Ablakimova N, et al (2026)

Global research trends on depression-related stigma in the 21st century: a bibliometric analysis.

Global health action, 19(1):2612390.

BACKGROUND: Depression is a leading contributor to the global burden of diseases. Stigma associated with mental illness significantly hinders help-seeking, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. While research on mental health stigma has expanded over the past two decades, a systematic examination of its evolution, particularly in the context of depression, is almost non-existent.

OBJECTIVE: To map and analyze global research on depression stigma, focusing on publication trends, leading contributors, international collaborations, and thematic developments.

METHODS: We analyzed 947 peer-reviewed articles indexed in the Scopus database using bibliometric software in R-studio. Quantitative indicators included annual publication growth, citation analysis, leading countries, institutions, and authors, as well as international collaboration patterns. Additionally, keyword co-occurrence and thematic evolution analyses were conducted to explore conceptual developments within the field.

RESULTS: The number of publications steadily increased from 2013 to 2025. The United States, China, the UK, and Canada accounted for the highest research and citation impact, while contributions from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) remained limited despite these regions carrying most of the global disease burden. Thematic mapping revealed a strong focus on clinical and psychosocial dimensions, with increasing attention to concepts such as resilience, social support, and the mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in recent years.

CONCLUSIONS: The volume of research on depression stigma has grown, yet significant geographical and conceptual disparities continue to persist. Strengthening collaboration, supporting LMIC research capacity, and integrating stigma reduction into global mental health frameworks are essential to achieving equitable mental health outcomes worldwide.

RevDate: 2026-02-01
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Zhang Z, Li X, Zhou J, et al (2025)

Xuebijing injection in the treatment of COVID-19: An update on clinical studies, potentially active metabolites and mechanisms.

Frontiers in pharmacology, 16:1667022.

INTRODUCTION: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an epidemic respiratory disease caused due to the infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In China, the National Health Commission of China announced that patients with COVID-19 who were treated with traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) combined with antiviral drugs effectively alleviated their symptoms and recovered. Among these TCMs, Xuebijing (XBJ) injection plays an important role in the treatment of patients with COVID-19. However, this was a puzzle that what will be the clinical efficacy and safety of XBJ injection for COVID-19 treatment, and what are the potential mechanisms behind XBJ injection?

METHODS: To search for articles on "Xuebijing injection in the treatment of COVID-19" in PubMed, use the following query: (Xuebijing injection OR Xuebijing) AND (COVID-19 OR SARS-CoV-2 OR severe pneumonia). We added filters for "Clinical Trial," "Randomized Controlled Trial," or "Review" to focus on specific study types, and limit the search to recent years (2010-2025) and English-language articles for more targeted results.

RESULTS: XBJ injection in combination with regular therapy has been shown to improve overall efficacy, reduce 28-day mortality, improve lung CT recovery and reduce pro-inflammatory markers in patients with COVID-19. The high affinity for angiotensin converting enzyme 2, inhibition of neutrophil extracellular trap release and prevention of cell death and inflammation may be the main molecular mechanisms of XBJ injection in the treatment of COVID-19.

CONCLUSION: This review synthesizes the current evidence on the clinical efficacy and safety of XBJ injection in the treatment of COVID-19. Our analysis indicates that XBJ injection, when used in combination with standard therapy, significantly improves overall efficacy, reduces 28-day mortality, enhances lung CT recovery, and decreases pro-inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These findings suggest that Xuebijing injection is a promising adjunctive treatment for COVID-19, particularly in severe cases, although it must be confirmed through rigorous pharmacological and clinical studies.

RevDate: 2026-01-30
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Rozhnova TM, Starynina DV, Bubnova AM, et al (2025)

The COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences on men's reproductive health.

Biophysical reviews, 17(5):1643-1650.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted global health; key questions remain regarding its effects on male reproductive function. Male infertility represents both a biomedical challenge and a societal concern. Our review considers COVID-19's biophysical mechanisms affecting the male reproductive system and focuses on the prognostic implication. Current evidence highlights two primary pathways of SARS-CoV-2 impact: hyperthermia and oxidative stress. The first pathway, as reported, significantly increases sperm aneuploidy and, as a result, has adverse effects on spermatogenesis and causes sperm DNA breaks. The second pathway of coronavirus impact on infertility is oxidative stress. During it, the level of formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increases and damages sperm membrane by lipid peroxidation. These mechanisms are interrelated, as fever-induced oxidative stress may alter redox-active metal homeostasis, further exacerbating cellular damage. Understanding these pathogenic processes enables targeted therapeutic development and preventive strategies for COVID-19-related male reproductive dysfunction.

RevDate: 2026-01-30
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Danchenko P, Rudenko K, Rzhanyi M, et al (2026)

Contemporary surgical treatment of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: insights from the Ukrainian National Referral Center.

Indian journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery, 42(2):282-290.

PURPOSE: Hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) remains a prevalent and clinically significant condition with a global prevalence of 1:200 to 1:500. In Ukraine, the estimated burden is approximately 75,000 patients, although national data remain limited. Since 2016, the Amosov National Institute of Cardiovascular Surgery in Kyiv has been a leading center for HOCM surgery, primarily performing septal myectomy (SM) with concomitant mitral valve (MV) repair. This review summarizes the evolution of the Institute's surgical program, outcomes, and challenges faced under extraordinary circumstances.

METHODS: Institutional experience with SM and MV repair between 2016 and 2025 was reviewed. Preoperative evaluation included transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, and/or computed tomography (CT). A refined transaortic SM technique was applied to optimize septal resection, relieve left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction, and address dynamic mitral regurgitation (MR).

RESULTS: SM consistently reduced LVOT gradients and eliminated MR in the majority of patients. In-hospital mortality remained below 1%, with a low incidence of major complications directly attributable to myectomy. Despite significant external pressures, including the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine, surgical activity continued without interruption. Innovations in operative techniques and perioperative management further enhanced safety and outcomes.

CONCLUSION: The Amosov Institute has established a high-performing national program for HOCM surgery, demonstrating durable results despite unprecedented challenges. Ongoing refinement of minimally invasive strategies and strengthened international collaboration remain essential to address the global shortage of experienced myectomy surgeons and ensure wider access to advanced surgical care.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12055-025-02125-0.

RevDate: 2026-02-01
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Cherian JJ, Das S, Bagepally BS, et al (2025)

Efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy vs. standard of care in patients diagnosed with acute respiratory distress syndrome: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Frontiers in medicine, 12:1674720.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of stem cell therapies as compared to the standard of care (SOC) in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

METHODS: Search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, and Web of Science databases for randomized controlled trials was performed. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023467612). The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality on day 28 and serious adverse events. Risk ratios (RR) and mean differences were pooled using Stata software version 17.0. Quality of the evidence was assessed by GRADE approach.

RESULTS: Out of 5,537 articles screened, 17 were included. Treatment with stem cells led to no significant difference in the risk of 28-day mortality [RR, 0.809 (95% CI: 0.651-1.005), p = 0.06; I [2] = 0%] or the risk of serious adverse events [RR, 0.94 (95% CI: 0.80-1.12), p = 0.36; I [2]= 8.58%] as compared to treatment with SOC. Additionally, no significant differences were observed in the duration of hospitalization, the number of ventilator-free days till day 28, 60-day all-cause mortality, intensive care unit (ICU)-free days till day 28, change in quality-of-life (QoL) score, and the duration of ICU stay, PaO2/FiO2 ratio, change in SOFA score, and change in serum interleukin 6 and 8 levels. The GRADE of evidence was low or very low for the critical outcomes.

CONCLUSION: There was no significant improvement in critical outcomes following stem cell therapy as compared to the SOC in ARDS. The certainty of evidence was low to very low, indicating limited confidence in the findings.

SYSTEMATIC TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023467612).

RevDate: 2026-02-01
CmpDate: 2026-01-30

Manafi MM, Farzani T, Espinoza N, et al (2025)

Understanding the performance of HIV-1 viral vector vaccines: adenovirus and poxvirus case studies.

Frontiers in immunology, 16:1720342.

Despite decades of research, HIV-1 continues to infect millions annually, underscoring the urgent need for a safe and effective vaccine to curb the ongoing global pandemic. Among the many strategies explored, viral vectors have been the most intensively studied, with adenoviral and poxviral platforms serving as the leading approaches. These vectors have advanced through extensive preclinical evaluation and multiple large-scale clinical trials, demonstrating safety and the ability to induce cellular and humoral responses. Yet, they have also revealed key challenges, including pre-existing vector immunity, limited durability of responses, and in some cases, increased susceptibility to infection. Importantly, these trials clarified the limitations of Env-focused immunity, highlighted the value of heterologous prime-boost regimens, and reinforced the dual need for broadly neutralizing antibodies and functional T cell responses. While vector-based COVID vaccines achieved protective efficacy, lessons learned from adenoviral and poxviral efforts continue to shape the field, directly informing the design of next-generation platforms such as mRNA and engineered viral vectors.

RevDate: 2026-01-30

Viana IRMN, HM Peixoto (2026)

Vaccination Coverage and Factors Associated With Incomplete Vaccination Schedules in Children Under 5 in a Peripheral Area of the Federal District of Brazil.

Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.) [Epub ahead of print].

OBJECTIVE: To estimate vaccination coverage (VC) and analyze the factors associated with the incomplete vaccination schedule (IVS) in children under 5 years of age in two Basic Health Units in the Federal District of Brazil.

DESIGN: A cross-sectional study.

SAMPLE: The study included 162 children in two Basic Health Units; 54.94% were male, and all were under 5 years of age.

MEASUREMENTS: Guardians were interviewed using a structured questionnaire, and their vaccination booklets were photographed. VC was estimated and prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated using Poisson regression analysis.

RESULTS: Twenty percent of the children had an IVS. None of the vaccines evaluated reached the VC considered correct in terms of age and interval between doses. Factors associated with IVS were age under 2 years (adjusted PR: 2.55; 95% CI: 1.53-4.24), difficulties arising from the COVID-19 pandemic (adjusted PR: 2.71; 95% CI: 1.51-4.86) and a negative response when asked whether all vaccines were administered in the same location (adjusted PR: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.13-3.44).

CONCLUSIONS: A high proportion of children presented IVS, associated with factors such as age, lack of continuity of vaccination in the same location and difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

RevDate: 2026-01-29

Grant A, Kabbani D, Vuong A, et al (2026)

Value of Emerging and Existing Pre-prophylaxis and Therapeutic Options for COVID-19 in Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review of Economic Evaluations.

PharmacoEconomics - open [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: High-risk populations, including transplant recipients, are at increased risk of severe Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outcomes. Certain treatments and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) have been approved to reduce the risk of severe illness. However, data on the cost effectiveness of currently approved COVID-19 therapeutics and preventative treatments are limited for those at high-risk of severe disease.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to systematically review the cost effectiveness of COVID-19 treatments and PrEP in high-risk, immunocompromised, and transplant populations.

METHODS: Electronic databases were searched from inception to September 2025 for studies comparing costs and effectiveness of monoclonal antibodies PrEP or COVID-19 therapeutics in high-risk, immunocompromised or transplant populations. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and critically appraised them using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for economic evaluations. Cost data are presented in 2025 US dollars.

RESULTS: Of 8905 studies identified, 60 met inclusion criteria, with seven focused on or including transplant populations. Most studies were cost-utility analyses published between 2020 and 2025. Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, tixagevimab-cilgavimab, casirivimab-imdevimab, sotrovimab, remdesivir, molnupiravir, and fluvoxamine were compared with no prophylaxis or standard of care. Among transplant populations, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) for tixagevimab-cilgavimab PrEP following vaccination was US$76,024 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY), while ICERs for COVID-19 therapeutics ranged from US$440 to US$126,676 per QALY.

CONCLUSION: Cost effectiveness varied widely across studies due to differences in variant periods, population risk profiles, model assumptions, and healthcare systems. Future research should integrate variant-specific effectiveness, real-world vaccine responsiveness, long-term COVID-19 outcomes, and adverse events to better inform resource allocation for transplant and other high-risk populations.

RevDate: 2026-01-30
CmpDate: 2026-01-29

Gouveia A, Buclin CP, Hibbert D, et al (2026)

[2025 scientific breakthroughs in ambulatory general internal medicine].

Revue medicale suisse, 22(947):204-209.

In this article, we present eight studies published in the last 2 years that are likely to influence the practice of general practitioners in 2026. The key messages highlight the effectiveness of metformin for knee pain treatment, recent advances in the management of poorly controlled asthma, and the absence of contraindications to administering influenza and Covid-19 vaccines simultaneously. In addition, several articles describe the association between sleep duration and hypertension, blood pressure measurement protocols, the effects of vitamin K2 on nocturnal leg cramps, and the effects of intermittent fasting on weight loss. Finally, the Thrombosis Risk Prediction in Patients with Cast Immobilization Score can be used to assess whether therapeutic anticoagulation is indicated in cases of lower-limb immobilization.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-29

Aguiar CEO, Costa JMC, Oliveira MMGL, et al (2026)

Cardiovascular burden of long coronavirus disease: Clinical challenges and emerging biomarkers.

World journal of cardiology, 18(1):112466.

Long coronavirus disease (LC) is a condition characterized by a persistent state, with recurrent/remitting or progressive episodes, that may affect one or multiple organ systems following severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. The cardiovascular system is particularly impacted by this condition. This review aims to discuss the cardiovascular implications in LC and its potential mechanisms. We offer an updated summary of established and emerging biomarkers with clinical potential for diagnosis, risk stratification, and therapy monitoring. Conventional markers with established clinical roles, such as cardiac troponins, natriuretic peptides (B-type natriuretic peptide/N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide), D-dimer, and inflammatory markers (e.g., C-reactive protein, interleukin-6), coexist with less established but promising biomarkers, such as growth differentiation factor-15, galectin-3, von Willebrand factor, endothelin-1, and circulating microRNAs. The incomplete understanding of the mechanisms and their diverse clinical manifestations, underscores the urgent need for efficient diagnostic tests and predictive models. In this context, besides the lack of standardization in biomarker testing and the absence of validated longitudinal predictive models, the use of biomarker-based strategies represents a potential tool to improve early detection of high-risk patients, enable personalized follow-up, and support more effective prevention of cardiovascular complications in LC patients in clinical practice.

RevDate: 2026-02-05
CmpDate: 2026-01-29

Sahoo DP (2025)

Advancing Precision Medicine in Adult-Onset Still's Disease: Insights into Biomarkers, Therapies, and COVID-19 Impacts.

Mediterranean journal of rheumatology, 36(4):509-523.

Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a rare autoinflammatory disorder characterized by spiking fevers, arthralgia, and a transient salmon-pink rash, with an incidence of 0.16-0.4 per 100,000. AOSD shares overlapping clinical and immunological features with systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA), supporting a disease continuum and shared treatment approaches. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted AOSD care, with SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination occasionally triggering disease flares, necessitating adaptive management strategies. Driven by innate immune dysregulation and overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1, IL-6, IL-18), AOSD presents in systemic and articular phenotypes, with severe complications like macrophage activation syndrome (MAS), fulminant hepatitis, and parenchymal lung disease. Diagnosis, based on Yamaguchi or Fautrel criteria and biomarkers (ferritin, IL-18), is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms. Biologic therapies (anakinra, canakinumab, tocilizumab) achieve remission in 80-90% of systemic cases. This review synthesises diagnostic challenges, novel biomarkers (e.g., gasdermin D), and emerging therapies (e.g., IL-18 binding protein), emphasising precision medicine and future research needs.

RevDate: 2026-01-29
CmpDate: 2026-01-29

Han Z, Han J, Zhao Y, et al (2026)

Research Progress of Coronavirus Reverse Genetics Technology.

Journal of medical virology, 98(2):e70792.

In recent years, coronavirus, a kind of virus with a wide host range and high variability, has a large and complex genome. Research on the reverse genetics of coronaviruses has always been a hot spot. Coronavirus cannot only infect mammals, but also infect humans, showing its wide host adaptability. The mutation ability of the coronavirus is extremely strong. Recently, the rapid mutation rate of SARS-CoV-2 has made the development of vaccines and therapeutic methods face great challenges. At present, reverse genetics technology is a molecular biology tool. This process primarily involves cloning the full-length genome cDNA of the virus onto a vector, and then reproducing the modified progeny virus in the cell to achieve accurate modification of the virus's genetic characteristics. This technology can explore the external characteristics of mutants and the evolution of their traits through artificial operations, such as knockout and site-directed mutagenesis of specific genes, and then reveal the biological functions of genes. This article will review the research progress of the coronavirus reverse genetic operating system. In the past research, reverse genetics technology has made remarkable progress in the field of coronavirus research. Researchers have successfully constructed various reverse genetic systems for coronaviruses, including IBV, SARS-CoV-2, and MERS-CoV. In addition, the reverse genetic system has also been used to study the cross-species transmission capacity of the virus, which is of great significance for preventing possible future novel coronavirus epidemics.

RevDate: 2026-02-01
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Salem GM, Azamor T, Familiar-Macedo D, et al (2026)

Mechanistic insights into the impact of prenatal viral infections on maternal and offspring immunity.

Npj viruses, 4(1):7.

Global outbreaks of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and respiratory viruses - severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza, accounted for ~50 million infections in 2024. Prenatal exposure to these viruses poses substantial risks to maternal and fetal health, yet the underlying immunological mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Despite differences in viral biology and transmission, mounting evidence reveals a convergent theme of maternal immune activation during pregnancy. Even without vertical transmission, virus-elicted maternal immune responses alter the maternal-fetal interface and gut microbiome, reshaping fetal immunity and birth outcomes. These immune perturbations increase susceptibility to infections, neurodevelopmental disorders, and immune-mediated diseases later in life. Here, we discuss viral immune evasion strategies that modulate maternal immunity and review current clinical and emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at mitigating long-term consequences in exposed children. Understanding how prenatal viral exposure shapes lifelong health is critical for developing targeted interventions and reducing postnatal disease burden.

RevDate: 2026-02-01
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Ferreira AGS, Garcia HWC, da Silva SS, et al (2026)

The role of sense of control and locus of control in depressive and anxious symptoms during COVID-19: an integrative review.

Psicologia, reflexao e critica : revista semestral do Departamento de Psicologia da UFRGS, 39(1):5.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a series of psychological impacts, resulting in significant increases in anxiolytic and depressive disorders, influenced by isolation measures, health insecurity, and abrupt social changes. Two key concepts for understanding emotional responses during this period include Sense of Control (SoC) and Locus of Control (LoC). The SoC refers to the general perception of personal agency, while the LoC is a more specific framework that classifies control perceptions as either internal (believing one has control over life events) or external (attributing outcomes to external forces). Previous studies indicate that a more external LoC and a low SoC are associated with greater psychological vulnerability in stressful contexts, such as during the pandemic, which can amplify symptoms of anxiety and depression. This integrative review aims to gather and synthesize studies that explore the relationship between LoC and/or SoC and symptoms of anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic.

MAIN TEXT: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and BVS databases, focusing on studies published within the last 5 years. Quantitative studies with adult samples were considered eligible while excluding those with specific pre-existing conditions. After removing duplicates, titles and abstracts were screened, resulting in 12 full-text studies to be reviewed. Of these, nine met inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. An emerging pattern showed that individuals with external LoC and low SoC had higher levels of anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. The role of LoC and SoC as moderators of psychological distress was documented, reinforcing prior evidence that individuals with an external LoC are more vulnerable to mental health challenges in times of crisis. Furthermore, these constructs influenced behavioral responses to the pandemic, with higher SoC and internal LoC associated with more proactive and responsible coping strategies.

CONCLUSION: Both LoC and SoC play critical roles in understanding the psychological impacts of the pandemic. Despite populational and methodological diversity, most studies point to a clear correlation between perception of control and levels of anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of interventions that increase the perception of personal control to reduce psychological distress.

RevDate: 2026-01-28

Oreskovic E, Petzold A, Petropoulos IN, et al (2026)

Corneal confocal microscopy as a paraclinical test in neurodegenerative disease: a scoping review.

The British journal of ophthalmology pii:bjo-2025-328181 [Epub ahead of print].

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

RevDate: 2026-02-08
CmpDate: 2026-02-08

Groen K, BG Hale (2026)

Human autoantibodies against type I interferons in severe viral disease.

Current opinion in virology, 74:101511.

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

RevDate: 2026-01-28

Mattedi FZ, Ribeiro HS, Busatto GF, et al (2026)

Acute respiratory distress syndrome and acute kidney injury in critically ill patients: A scoping review on this lung-kidney crosstalk.

Journal of critical care, 93:155445 pii:S0883-9441(26)00023-7 [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is high; nonetheless, the lung-kidney crosstalk remains unclear.

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-28

Saxena SK, Yadav J, Kishan H, et al (2026)

Pathogenesis and current advancement in treatment and prevention strategies for Human metapneumovirus.

Virology, 617:110798 pii:S0042-6822(26)00013-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a well-identified paramyxovirus that has emerged as a significant global health threat, particularly following recent outbreaks in 2024-2025. It preferentially infects the respiratory epithelium and affects infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised populations. The clinical manifestations of the HMPV range from mild upper respiratory symptoms to severe diffuse bronchopneumonia. As of late 2024 and early 2025, HMPV has been responsible for 6.2% of positive respiratory illness tests and 5.4% of respiratory-associated hospitalizations in China, surpassing COVID-19, rhinovirus, and adenovirus. HMPV is a non-segmented, negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus with a genome of about 13.3 kb, and it is genetically related to Orthopneumovirus, particularly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Its transmission occurs primarily within households, and the virus poses significant risks to vulnerable populations. Immunologic responses to HMPV infections are diverse, with limited lasting immunity, leading to frequent reinfections. Diagnosis is problematic due to overlapping clinical manifestations of the disease alongside other respiratory viruses like RSV and influenza. Presently, no vaccines or antiviral treatments are available for HMPV, though several vaccine candidates are under investigation, including mRNA-1653 and IVX-A12, which have shown promising results in Phase I and Phase II clinical trials. Recent advances in understanding HMPV's molecular biology and immune modulation have led to exploring new therapeutic strategies, including monoclonal antibodies, fusion inhibitors, and RNA interference-based therapies.

RevDate: 2026-01-29
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Sun M, Tang F, Min L, et al (2026)

Effects of Telehealth Interventions for People With Parkinson Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 14:e70994 pii:v14i1e70994.

BACKGROUND: The global integration of telehealth into the management of Parkinson disease (PD) addresses critical gaps in health care access, especially for patients with limited mobility in underserved regions. Despite accelerated adoption during the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence regarding telehealth's multidimensional efficacy remains inconsistent. Previous meta-analyses reported conflicting outcomes for quality of life (QOL), motor symptoms, and neuropsychiatric comorbidities.

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

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-28

Palacio Varona J, Rojas Manjarres AM, Gómez-Buitrago MI, et al (2026)

Global, regional and national patterns in ROP research up to the pre-COVID-19 era: A systematic bibliometric review between 1950 to 2020.

European journal of ophthalmology [Epub ahead of print].

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of preventable childhood blindness, predominantly affecting preterm infants. Global disparities in neonatal care and research capacity influence the volume and visibility of scientific production devoted to ROP across regions. This systematic bibliometric review aimed to characterize global, regional, and national patterns of ROP research published between 1950 and 2020, including temporal trends, geographic distribution, thematic focus, and citation impact. A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO identified 4,932 eligible articles. Most publications originated from the Region of the Americas (Pan American Health Organization, PAHO; 44.2%), the European Region (EURO; 28.0%), and the Western Pacific Region (WPRO; 16.0%). High-income countries accounted for 73.4% of the total output, whereas lower-middle- and low-income countries were markedly underrepresented. The most frequent research themes were risk/protective factors (25.0%) and treatment and outcomes (23.5%), while studies addressing surveillance and public health policies were scarce (6.3%). Scientific output increased markedly after the 1980s, with particularly rapid growth in recent decades in the Western Pacific and South-East Asia Regions. Citation analysis revealed substantial regional inequalities, with publications from high-income regions accounting for the majority of global citations and higher per-article impact. Overall, ROP research remains highly concentrated in high-income settings, reflecting persistent global disparities in scientific production and visibility. Strengthening research capacity and output in underrepresented regions is essential to promote more equitable evidence generation and to support informed decision-making in global eye health.

RevDate: 2026-02-01

Cénat JM, Darius WP, Moshirian Farahi SMM, et al (2026)

Prevalence and Correlates of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Canada: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis: Prévalence et corrélats des symptômes du trouble de stress post-traumatique pendant la pandémie de COVID-19 au Canada : Revue systématique et méta-analyse.

Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie [Epub ahead of print].

BackgroundInfectious disease outbreaks have been associated with significant psychological distress and trauma. In Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic's social disruptions have heightened mental health risks. While global studies report elevated posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, Canadian findings remain limited and inconsistent. This meta-analysis estimated pooled prevalence of PTSD symptoms in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined potential moderators.MethodsA comprehensive search strategy was executed by research librarians across five databases (APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE and Web of Science) and on LitCovid. The PRISMA guidelines were used for data extraction and reporting. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate pooled PTSD symptoms prevalence and explore potential moderators using the metaprop command in STATA/SE 19.5.ResultsThirty studies conducted between 2020 and 2022, with 52,565 participants aged 18 and older were included (65% weighted women). The pooled prevalence of PTSD symptoms was 22.2% (95% CI, 15.7% to 29.4%; I[2]=99.69). Prevalence was 32.1% in women, 26.1% in men (p = 0.399) and ranged from 16.1% in Quebec to 29.7% in Ontario (p = 0.091). Meta-regressions showed lower PTSD symptoms prevalence in Quebec (B=-0.16, p = 0.029). No significant differences in PTSD symptoms were found according to sex, healthcare worker status, assessment tool used, or data collection year.ConclusionsThis meta-analysis reveals a concerning prevalence of PTSD symptoms in the Canadian population during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrary to expectations, no significant differences were found by sex or healthcare worker status, suggesting widespread psychological distress across the population. However, the substantial heterogeneity across studies limits the interpretation of these findings in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results emphasize the need for inclusive and accessible mental health responses and further research on post-pandemic Canadians' mental health. Future studies should better disaggregate data by sex, age and race to address disparities and inform targeted public health policies and interventions.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Silveira IB, Silva GP, Sampaio AVH, et al (2026)

Synchronous Telemedicine Versus In-Person Care in Hepatitis C Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Journal of viral hepatitis, 33(3):e70144.

Inequitable access to HCV treatment persists, particularly for rural and marginalised populations. Synchronous telemedicine (TM) could mitigate access barriers, but its comparative effectiveness versus in-person care is uncertain. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing synchronous TM with in-person care for HCV. The primary outcome was sustained virologic response (SVR); secondary outcomes were treatment initiation and completion. Subgroup analyses examined study design, therapy era (interferon vs. direct-acting antivirals [DAAs]), and setting (rural vs. non-rural). Narrative synthesis addressed people who use drugs (PWUD), incarcerated populations, pandemic-era cohorts, and economic evaluations. Fifteen studies involving 7.459 patients (2 RCTs, 13 observational) were included (13 meta-analysed). For SVR, the pooled effect showed no significant difference between interventions (odds ratio [OR] 1.60, 95% CI 0.69-3.68). Treatment initiation and completion were also not significantly different overall (initiation OR 7.59, 95% CI 0.79-72.81; completion OR 2.50, 95% CI 0.76-8.25), although exclusion of single influential studies yielded significant benefits for TM in sensitivity analyses. Subgroups suggested context-specific advantages: TM favoured SVR in rural settings (OR = 4.19, 95% CI 1.28-13.73) and in RCTs (OR = 10.42, 95% CI 7.41-14.67). Narrative evidence indicated that TM improved linkage and cure among PWUD and incarcerated individuals, preserved efficacy during COVID-19, and reduced costs. Overall, synchronous TM seems comparable to in-person care overall and may be superior in rural and marginalised populations.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Dasgupta T, Russell E, Carbajal C, et al (2025)

Seeking digital maternity healthcare during the pandemic health system shock: a systematic review of women's experiences in low- and middle-income countries.

Frontiers in reproductive health, 7:1734456.

BACKGROUND: The pandemic created global disruption acting as a health system shock not seen before in living memory. As a consequence, there were significant implications for healthcare delivery in low- and middle-income countries. Challenges such as lockdown restrictions created substantial modifications to the delivery of maternity care. This review aims to explore the experiences of maternity care by women, specifically in low- and middle-income countries, during the pandemic global health system shock.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

See KC (2026)

Vaccination Against Respiratory Infections in Adults with Cancer: A Concise Guide for Clinicians.

Vaccines, 14(1):.

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Alkhidir M, K Sridharan (2026)

Efficacy and Safety of mRNA-Based COVID-19 Vaccines in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Vaccines, 14(1):.

BACKGROUND: Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are highly vulnerable to severe COVID-19 infection, yet initial vaccine trials provided limited data on efficacy and safety in this immunocompromised population. Heterogeneous seroconversion rates and conflicting safety reports complicate the formulation of clear clinical guidelines. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to aggregate existing evidence to determine the precise seroconversion and safety profiles of COVID-19 vaccines and identify key factors influencing immune response in SOTRs.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Esposito S, Aurelio C, Cifaldi M, et al (2025)

Prevention of Respiratory Infections in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: Current Evidence and Clinical Strategies.

Vaccines, 14(1):.

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Maslov DE, Osipov ID, Zabelina DS, et al (2026)

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Prevalence and Genotypic Distribution in the Countries of the Former Soviet Union: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Viruses, 18(1):.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is among leading global causes of lower respiratory tract infections, yet data from Russia and other states of the Former Soviet Union (FSU) remain fragmented and structurally inconsistent. This systematic review aims to map and synthesize existing evidence on RSV epidemiology and genotypic distribution across the FSU. Published studies from eLIBRARY and PubMed databases queried for RSV prevalence data, together with public health surveillance datasets, were used to summarize RSV prevalence research across eight FSU countries. Random-effects meta-analysis across age strata showed high prevalence in children before 6 (21%) and a progressive decline with age, which is in agreement with global data. Prevalence estimates showed a high degree of variability partially explained by study scope and clinical presentation. We observed COVID-19-related seasonal disruptions of RSV seasonality, followed by gradual post-pandemic stabilization. Genotypic data reflects global trends with two cosmopolitan clades, A.D and B.D, and their descendants, dominating in the region. The review is limited by uneven geographical and temporal coverage, and scarce data on adults. The review provides the first integrated summary of RSV epidemiology across the FSU and underscores the need for expanded regional surveillance and genomic reporting.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Hamza IA, Mao K, Gao C, et al (2025)

Elements of Viral Outbreak Preparedness: Lessons, Strategies, and Future Directions.

Viruses, 18(1):.

Emerging and re-emerging viruses continue to pose major threats to public health. Their ability to adapt, cross species barriers, and spread rapidly can trigger severe outbreaks or even pandemics. Strengthening preparedness with comprehensive and efficient strategies is therefore essential. Here, we explore the key components of viral outbreak preparedness, including surveillance systems, diagnostic capacity, prevention and control measures, non-pharmaceutical interventions, antiviral therapeutics, and research and development. We emphasize the increasing importance of genomic surveillance, wastewater-based surveillance, real-time data sharing, and the One Health approach to better anticipate zoonotic spillovers. Current challenges and future directions are also discussed. Effective preparedness requires transparent risk communication and equitable access to diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted both the promise of next-generation vaccine platforms and the necessity of maintaining diagnostic capacity, as early testing delays hindered containment efforts. Countries adopted various non-pharmaceutical interventions: risk communication and social distancing proved to be the most effective, while combined workplace infection-prevention measures outperformed single strategies. These experiences highlight the importance of early detection, rapid response, and multisectoral collaboration in mitigating the impact of viral outbreaks. By applying best practices and lessons learned from recent events, global health systems can strengthen resilience and improve readiness for future viral threats.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Giuliani AAM, Chen V, N Law (2025)

Respiratory Viral Infection Prophylaxis and Treatment in the Transplant Population.

Viruses, 18(1):.

Transplant patients experience high morbidity and mortality caused by respiratory viral infections (RVIs). In the past decade, numerous methods of prophylaxis and treatment have rapidly developed and continue to expand, with dozens of novel agents in preclinical and clinical trials. This includes recent scientific breakthroughs in virus structure, which have enabled the creation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines. While new vaccines, antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, and non-vaccine agents are becoming more available, their utility and safety in the transplant populations are often uncertain. This review summarizes the current landscape of RVIs in the transplant population, including approaches to pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis and treatment. We discuss the data behind vaccine timing, safety, and efficacy and current pre- and post-transplant recommendations, with a particular focus on influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV. We also examine the potential benefits of antivirals, monoclonal antibodies, and novel agents used as prophylaxis, treatment, or adjuncts. While there remain many knowledge gaps, these new methods and ongoing advancements in RVI treatment and prevention promise to improve transplant patient outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Tiwari AK, Gupta MK, Mishra SK, et al (2026)

Nanobiosensors: A Potential Tool to Decipher the Nexus Between SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Gut Dysbiosis.

Sensors (Basel, Switzerland), 26(2):.

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 posed a great global threat and emphasized the urgent need for diagnostic tools that are rapid, reliable, sensitive and capable of real-time monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infections. Recent investigations have identified a potential connection between SARS-CoV-2 infection and gut dysbiosis, highlighting the sophisticated interplay between the virus and the host microbiome. This review article discusses the eminence of nanobiosensors, as state-of-the-art tools, to investigate and clarify the connection between SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and gut microbiome imbalance. Nanobiosensors are uniquely advantageous owing to their sensitivity, selectivity, specificity, and reliable monitoring capabilities, making them well-suited for identifying both viral particles and microbial markers in biological samples. We explored a range of nanobiosensor platforms and their potential use for concurrently monitoring the gut dysbiosis induced by different pathological conditions. Additionally, we explore how advanced sensing technologies can shed light on the mechanisms driving virus-induced dysbiosis, and the implications for disease progression and patient outcomes. The integration of nanobiosensors with microfluidic devices and artificial intelligence algorithms has also been explored, highlighting the potential of developing point-of-care diagnostic tools that provide comprehensive insights into both viral infection and gut health. Utilizing nanotechnology, scientists and healthcare professionals may gain a more profound insight into the complex interaction dynamics between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the gut microenvironment. This could pave the way for enhanced diagnostic and prognostic approaches, treatment courses, and patient care for COVID-19.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Wan X, Cui X, Liang K, et al (2026)

The Emerging Promise of Pentacyclic Triterpenoid Derivatives as Novel Antiviral Agents Against SARS-CoV-2 Variants.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 31(2):.

The continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants, especially the Omicron strain with its heightened transmissibility, has posed ongoing challenges to the efficacy of existing vaccine and drug regimens. This situation highlights the pressing demand for antiviral drugs employing novel mechanisms of action. Pentacyclic triterpenoids (PTs), a structurally varied group of compounds derived from plants, exhibit both antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, making them attractive candidates for further therapeutic development. These natural products, along with their saponin derivatives, show broad-spectrum inhibitory effects against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants (from Alpha to Omicron) via interactions with multiple targets, such as the spike protein, main protease (Mpro), RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), and inflammatory signaling pathways. This review consolidates recent findings on PTs and their saponins, emphasizing their influence on the key structural features required for inhibiting viral attachment, membrane fusion, reverse transcription, and protease function. We systematically summarized the structure-activity relationships and their antiviral results of PTs based on different target proteins in existing studies. Furthermore, this work points toward new strategies for designing multi-target PT-based inhibitors with improved efficacy against Omicron and future variants.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Dave RS, HS Fox (2026)

Synergy of SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1 Infections in the Human Brain.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 15(1):.

This review explores the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1 infections within the human brain, highlighting the significant neurological implications of these viral infections. SARS-CoV-2 can infect the central nervous system (CNS), with evidence of the virus detected in various brain regions, including the hypothalamus, cerebellum, and olfactory bulb. This infection is linked to microglial activation and neuroinflammation, which can lead to severe neurological outcomes in affected individuals. Autopsy studies revealed microglial changes, including downregulation of the P2RY12 receptor, indicating a shift from homeostatic to inflammatory phenotype. Similar changes in microglia are found in the brains of people with HIV-1 (PWH). In SARS-CoV-2, the correlation between inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-6, and MCP-1, found in cerebrospinal fluid and brain tissues, indicates significant neurovascular inflammation. Astrogliosis and microglial nodules were observed, further emphasizing the inflammatory response triggered by the viral infections, again in parallel to those found in the brains of PWH. Epidemiologic data indicate that although SARS-CoV-2 infection rates in PWH mirror those in People without HIV (PWoH) populations, Long-COVID prevalence is markedly higher among PWH. Evidence of overlapping cognitive impairment, mental health burden, and persistent neuroinflammation highlights diagnostic complexity and therapeutic gaps. Despite plausible mechanistic synergy, direct neuropathological confirmation remains scarce, warranting longitudinal, biomarker-driven studies. Understanding these interactions is critical for developing targeted interventions to mitigate CNS injury and improve outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Abdul Jabar K, Romli NIA, Vellasamy KM, et al (2026)

Predictors of Mortality in Pseudomonas aeruginosa Bloodstream Infections: A Scoping Review.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 15(1):.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa bloodstream infections (PABSIs) are a major clinical challenge due to their association with significant mortality and antimicrobial resistance mechanisms. The COVID-19 pandemic changed antimicrobial practices, intensive care management, and patient risk profiles, potentially influencing the epidemiology and outcomes of PABSIs. In the post-pandemic period, practices were expected to revert to normal. The objective of this scoping review was to identify and summarize reported mortality rates and risk factors for PABSIs in studies published between 2023 and 2025. Literature searches were conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus. Screening was performed in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Twenty-two eligible studies were included. Mortality rates varied across the study setting and populations; however, several consistent predictors were consistently identified, including carbapenem exposure, multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, hematologic disease or malignancy, corticosteroid therapy, sepsis or septic shock, mechanical ventilation, and higher severity-of-illness scores. Few studies have linked molecular mechanisms to patient outcomes, highlighting important gaps in knowledge. Notably, only a small number of studies included the post-pandemic period but did not analyze the data separately. Despite limited available evidence, critically ill and immunocompromised patients remain at greatest risk of death from PABSIs. This review highlights the need for a broader comparative analysis in future.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Gonepudi NK, Baffour Awuah H, Xu W, et al (2025)

Structure-Guided Design of Peptide Inhibitors Targeting Class I Viral Fusion Proteins.

Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland), 15(1):.

Viral fusion proteins are indispensable mediators of viral entry that orchestrate the fusion of viral and host membranes, making them primary targets for antiviral interventions. Class I fusion proteins, displayed on the surface of enveloped viruses (such as HIV-1, RSV, SARS-CoV-2, Nipah, influenza, and Ebola viruses), share conserved structural features, including the fusion peptide or loop and heptad repeat regions. These elements are essential for the formation of the post-fusion six-helix bundle during membrane fusion. Peptide inhibitors that mimic heptad repeat motifs have consequently emerged as an effective strategy for blocking the fusion process. This review summarizes design strategies for such inhibitors and highlights how sequence and structural insights have enabled their optimization via α-helical stabilization, hydrocarbon stapling, lactam bridges, lipid conjugation, macrocyclization, and multivalency. Using representative examples across major viral systems, this review illustrates how these strategies have led to the development of potent, stable, and even broad-spectrum antiviral peptides. This review provides insights to guide the rational design of next-generation peptide-based fusion inhibitors targeting viral membrane fusion.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Vink M, A Vink-Niese (2026)

An Overview of Severe Myalgic Encephalomyelitis.

Journal of clinical medicine, 15(2):.

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Vaira LA, Micheluzzi V, Lechien JR, et al (2026)

Telemedicine in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: A Narrative Review of Clinical Applications, Outcomes and Future Directions.

Journal of clinical medicine, 15(2):.

Objectives: Telemedicine has rapidly expanded in oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS), especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, but its specific roles and limitations across the care pathway remain unclear. This narrative review aimed to map telemedicine modalities and indications in OMFS, summarize reported outcomes, and identify priorities for future research. Methods: A narrative synthesis was undertaken after a systematic search of medical and engineering databases to 10 October 2025. Studies applying telemedicine, telehealth, telepresence or teleradiology to OMFS practice were eligible, including trials, observational cohorts, technical reports and surveys. Data were extracted in duplicate and organized thematically; heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis. Results: Fifty studies met the inclusion criteria. Telemedicine was mainly used for preoperative consultation and triage, postoperative follow-up, trauma teleradiology and tele-expertise, oncologic and oral medicine follow-up, temporomandibular disorders, and education or humanitarian work. In low-risk outpatient and postoperative settings, remote consultations showed high concordance with in-person plans, similar complication or reattendance rates, reduced travel, and high satisfaction. In trauma networks, telemedicine supported timely triage and reduced unnecessary inter-hospital transfers. Evidence in oral oncology and complex mucosal disease was more cautious, favouring hybrid models and escalation to face-to-face assessment. Data on cost-effectiveness and impacts on equity were limited. Conclusions: Telemedicine in OMFS has moved from niche innovation to a pragmatic adjunct across the clinical pathway. Current evidence supports its use for selected pre- and postoperative care and trauma triage within risk-stratified hybrid models, while underscoring the need for stronger comparative and implementation studies, clear governance on equity and data protection, and alignment with wider digital and AI-enabled health systems.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Vieru AM, Radulescu D, Streba L, et al (2026)

Learning from an Emerging Infection: How the COVID-19 Pandemic Reshaped Gastric Cancer Care.

Life (Basel, Switzerland), 16(1):.

Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted gastric cancer care, reducing access to screening, delaying diagnosis, and altering therapeutic pathways worldwide. Beyond clinical challenges, it exposed structural weaknesses in healthcare systems but also accelerated innovation. Methods: We conducted a narrative review supported by a structured literature search (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science; 1 January 2014-30 November 2025), with a narrative synthesis of observational studies, registry analyses, and meta-analyses addressing COVID-19-related changes in gastric cancer epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, vaccination, and telemedicine. A PRISMA-style flow diagram was used to illustrate study selection. Results: Elective endoscopy volumes fell by up to 80%, leading to diagnostic backlogs and increased proportions of advanced-stage gastric cancer. Surgical postponements, modified chemotherapy and radiotherapy schedules, and reduced molecular/genetic testing further compromised outcomes. Conversely, vaccination, telemedicine, capsule endoscopy, and adaptive triage frameworks enabled partial recovery of services. Geographical variations were observed in the recovery of gastric cancer care services, with regions that had established screening infrastructure generally resuming activity more rapidly, whereas others experienced ongoing delays and diagnostic backlogs. Conclusions: This review integrates epidemiological, diagnostic, and therapeutic evidence to demonstrate how COVID-19 redefined gastric cancer care. By highlighting regional disparities and outlining a conceptual model for oncologic resilience, it provides an innovative framework for future crisis preparedness. The lessons of the pandemic-digital health integration, flexible treatment protocols, and international collaboration-represent a foundation for more robust, equitable gastric cancer management in the post-pandemic era.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Park JY, HM Lee (2025)

PEDV Structural Proteins with Emphasis on M Protein as an Immunomodulatory Factor in Porcine Innate Immunity.

Life (Basel, Switzerland), 16(1):.

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) is an enteric alphacoronavirus that causes severe diarrhea and high mortality in neonatal pigs, leading to substantial economic loss in the porcine industry. Previous studies have primarily focused on the spike protein because of its role in viral entry and induction of neutralizing antibody responses. However, accumulating evidence indicates that other viral components also contribute to host immune modulation and pathogenesis. This review summarizes the current knowledge on PEDV structural proteins, with an emphasis on membrane proteins as regulators of porcine innate immune responses. The molecular characteristics and intracellular localization of membrane proteins were described, and the reported effects on interferon signaling, inflammatory pathways, and cellular stress responses were examined. Findings from related coronaviruses were incorporated to highlight the conserved features and virus-specific differences in membrane protein-mediated host modulation. Available evidence suggests that membrane protein-associated interference with innate immune signaling may contribute to intestinal immune dysregulation and disease severity in neonatal piglets. The implications of these observations on PEDV pathogenesis and intervention strategies are also discussed. By shifting attention from spike-centered frameworks to structural protein-driven host interactions, this review highlights membrane proteins as an underexplored but biologically relevant factor in porcine coronavirus research.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Mour G, Paudel SD, Modi P, et al (2026)

The Role of Vaccination in Adult Solid Organ Transplantation: Updated Reviews with Recent Guidelines.

Microorganisms, 14(1):.

Vaccination remains a cornerstone of infection prevention in adult solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, a population at heightened risk for vaccine-preventable diseases due to chronic immunosuppression and comorbidities. Updated guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation Infectious Diseases Community of Practice (AST IDCOP) and other international bodies emphasize the need for timely and comprehensive vaccination strategies before and after transplantation. This review synthesizes current literature and practice guidelines on vaccination in adult solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients. Published peer-reviewed studies, clinical trials, and consensus guidelines were evaluated, with emphasis on vaccination timing, safety, immunogenicity, dosing strategies, and serologic response monitoring in the SOT population. Comprehensive vaccination planning before transplantation, combined with appropriate post-transplant booster strategies, remains vital to improving long-term outcomes in SOT recipients. This review provides clinicians with an updated, evidence-based framework for integrating evolving vaccination guidelines into the care of adult transplant patients.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Soyfoo M, J Sarrand (2026)

Plasmablast Storms: Microbial Drivers of Acute and Chronic Autoimmune Flares.

Microorganisms, 14(1):.

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Usserbayev B, Zhugunissov K, Smekenov I, et al (2025)

Alpha- and Beta-Coronaviruses in Humans and Animals: Taxonomy, Reservoirs, Hosts, and Interspecies Transmission.

Microorganisms, 14(1):.

The Coronaviridae family represents a broad group of RNA-containing viruses that infect humans and animals. This family belongs to the order Nidovirales and is divided into four main genera: α-CoV, β-CoV, γ-CoV and δ-CoV. It is particularly noteworthy that representatives of β-CoV have caused serious epidemics in humans, such as the outbreaks of SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2. Although the clinical manifestations of CoVs can range from mild cold-like symptoms to severe respiratory diseases, they share common features in their structure, modes of transmission, and natural reservoirs. Identifying natural reservoirs, as well as establishing intermediate hosts, is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of interspecies transmission of CoVs. These processes are often mediated by molecular interactions between viral spike (S) proteins and cellular receptors of different species, which contribute to zoonotic outbreaks. Thus, the interaction of various species and the study of these processes of viral spread, cross-species transmission, and pathogen evolution play a key role in ensuring global biological safety. Therefore, we conducted this review to summarize the data from existing studies focused on the taxonomy of CoVs, their main types, natural reservoirs, intermediate hosts, pathways of interspecies transmission, and the significance of the One Health concept as an interdisciplinary approach to monitoring, prevention and control of CoV infections at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health. We examined databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify relevant scientific articles in English available for such a review. The aim of this work is to study the taxonomy and classification of coronaviruses, as well as to identify their natural reservoirs, intermediate hosts, and applicable control measures. A review of human and animal coronaviruses has revealed their evolutionary diversity, their main natural reservoirs, their intermediate hosts, and their interactions with cellular receptors. This information allows for a better understanding of the mechanisms by which the viruses are transmitted from animals to humans. The concept of One Health demonstrated the interconnections between human, animal and environmental factors.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Carbone RG, Nagoti S, Monselise A, et al (2025)

COVID-19 and Interstitial Lung Disease.

Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 62(1):.

Background and Objectives: COVID-19 is an infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus that may develop several complications. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is the major long-term complication of COVID-19 disease leading to progressive lung fibrosis and reduced respiratory function. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an updated overview of post-COVID-19 ILD by examining research publications and clinical guidelines selected from PubMed, Web of Science, and major respiratory medicine journals from 2020 to 2025. Methods: ILDs are diagnosed by medical history, physiological examination, pulmonary function tests, and chest X-ray or high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan. Lung biopsy, especially cryobiopsy or video-assisted thoracoscopic (VATS) biopsy, can be performed to define histological patterns and confirm the diagnosis. Results: Post-COVID-19 ILD is a chronic condition characterized by long-term respiratory symptoms, radiological findings, and reduced lung function. Fibrotic injury is a consequence of the initial infection and could be influenced by persistent inflammation and dysregulated tissue repair. Risk factors include severe acute illness, advanced age, male sex, and smoking. Clinical course and prognosis of post-COVID-19 ILD is uncertain, as most patients experience gradual improvement or stability, whereas others develop progressive lung function decline. Treatment of post-COVID-19 ILD is not presently defined by guidelines but comprises corticosteroids, antifibrotics (including new drugs such as nerandomilast), supportive oxygen, pulmonary physiotherapy rehabilitation, smoking cessation, and vaccination. Conclusions: ILD represents a significant long-term complication of COVID-19 infection. Further investigations are required to better understand its pathophysiology and clinical management. As research progresses, more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are expected to emerge.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Stigliano E, Tocci A, Florio R, et al (2026)

Olfactory Dysfunction and Cognitive Deterioration in Long COVID: Pathomechanisms and Clinical Implications in Development of Alzheimer's Disease.

Cells, 15(2):.

Complete or partial loss of smell (anosmia), sometimes in association with distorted olfactory perceptions (parosmia), is a common neurological symptom affecting nearly 60% of patients suffering from post-acute neurological sequelae of COronaVIrus Disease of 2019 (COVID-19) syndrome, called long COVID. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may gain access from the nasal cavity to the brain (neurotropism), and the olfactory route has been proposed as a peripheral site of virus entry. COVID-19 is a risk factor for developing Alzheimer's Disease (AD), an age-dependent and progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized in affected patients by early olfaction dysfunction that precedes signs of cognitive decline associated with neurodegeneration in vulnerable brain regions of their limbic system. Here, we summarize the recent literature data supporting the causal correlation between the persistent olfactory deterioration following SARS-CoV-2 infection and the long-delayed manifestation of AD-like memory impairment. SARS-CoV-2 infection of the olfactory neuroepithelium is likely to trigger a pattern of detrimental events that, directly and/or indirectly, affect the anatomically interconnected hippocampal and cortical areas, thus resulting in tardive clinical dementia. We also delineate future advancement on pharmacological and rehabilitative treatments to improve the olfactory dysfunction in patients recovering even from the acute/mild phase of COVID-19. Collectively, the present review aims at highlighting the physiopathological nexus between COVID-19 anosmia and post-pandemic mental health to favor the development of best-targeted and more effective therapeutic strategies in the fight against the long-term neurological complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Sisk CK, Turner LM, Meraj S, et al (2026)

Advances in mRNA-Based Melanoma Vaccines: A Narrative Review of Lipid Nanoparticle and Dendritic Cell Delivery Platforms.

Cells, 15(2):.

Melanoma remains one of the deadliest cutaneous malignancies worldwide, and despite advances in systemic therapy, recurrence and treatment resistance remain frequent challenges. Following the success of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, mRNA-based cancer vaccines targeting melanoma antigens have emerged as a promising therapeutic direction. This review summarizes current evidence on mRNA melanoma vaccines, focusing on two leading delivery platforms: lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) and dendritic cell (DC) vaccines. A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus from 2015 to 2025 identified clinical trials, preclinical studies, and review articles evaluating mRNA vaccine constructs and delivery strategies. Completed clinical studies demonstrate that personalized LNP-formulated mRNA vaccines can enhance neoantigen-specific T-cell responses and improve recurrence-free survival, particularly when combined with immune checkpoint inhibitors. DC-based mRNA vaccines also show potent immunogenicity, with stronger responses observed when DC maturation is optimized. Ongoing trials continue to investigate next-generation LNP formulations, DC priming strategies, and personalized neoantigen approaches. Overall, current evidence indicates that both LNP and DC platforms can augment antitumor immunity by broadening T-cell responses and enhancing checkpoint inhibition. Continued refinement of delivery vehicles, neoantigen selection, and scalable manufacturing processes will be essential to realizing the full clinical potential of mRNA vaccines in melanoma.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Álvarez-Fernández ML, C Rodríguez (2026)

Socio-Emotional Wellbeing in Parents of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: A Systematic Review.

Children (Basel, Switzerland), 13(1):.

Background/Objectives: Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) require contextual approaches emphasizing family roles. Parents of children with NDDs face a complex socio-emotional reality. They may experience high levels of stress, fatigue, depression, and feelings of guilt and uncertainty, and they are often left feeling isolated and unsupported. All of these factors increase their socio-emotional vulnerability and affect their children's wellbeing. A significant part of the available evidence has focused on parents of typically developing children or on a single construct. For these reasons, and considering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the aim of this study was to review interventions targeting the improvement of the socio-emotional wellbeing of parents of children with NDDs, in order to characterise recent research, the specific constructs addressed, and the effectiveness of interventions. Methods: No prior protocol/registration. ERIC and Web of Science databases (selected for their broad multidisciplinary coverage in psychology and social sciences) were searched from 2020-2025 (last search: 7 September 2025), limited to English/Spanish publications. Inclusion criteria encompassed parents/primary family caregivers of children with NDDs receiving socio-emotional programs. Two independent reviewers screened the titles/abstracts and full texts, resolving disagreements through discussion. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, this systematic review employed narrative synthesis without risk-of-bias assessment and included 16 studies (approximately, 1100 participants). Results: The analysis indicated a scarce but growing scientific output, with a complex methodological landscape showing promising preliminary convergence in intervention outcomes. Interventions effects appeared mediated by cultural suitability, accessibility, and contextual alignment. Conclusions: Future work should pursue multisystemic approaches engaging diverse societal contexts and agents to optimize child and family wellbeing.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Alhumaid S, Alkhamees AA, Al Dossary N, et al (2026)

Long-Term Kidney Outcomes After SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Children Aged 0-12 Years: A Systematic Review.

Children (Basel, Switzerland), 13(1):.

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is increasingly recognised in children with acute COVID-19 and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), yet the long-term renal consequences in younger paediatric populations remain unclear. Most studies focus on acute illness or mixed-age cohorts, with limited data specific to children aged 0-12 years. Objectives: This study aimed to systematically identify, evaluate, and synthesise evidence on post-acute (≥30 days) and long-term (≥90 days) kidney outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection or MIS-C in children aged 0-12 years, including chronic kidney disease (CKD), eGFR decline, proteinuria, haematuria, hypertension, and need for kidney replacement therapy. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PubMed (December 2019-30 November 2025), following PRISMA 2020 guidelines and a registered PROSPERO protocol (CRD420251241949). Observational studies reporting kidney outcomes ≥30 days post-infection in children aged 0-12 years were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale or ROBINS-I. Owing to heterogeneity and absence of ≥3 comparable datasets, a narrative synthesis was performed. Results: Seven studies met inclusion criteria (five MIS-C cohorts, two acute COVID-19 cohorts). Only a subset provided extractable data specific to children aged 0-12 years. Follow-up ranged from 30 days to 12 months; four studies reported outcomes ≥ 180 days. Across all studies, no incident CKD, sustained eGFR decline, or kidney replacement therapy were reported among children completing long-term follow-up; however, most long-term outcome data were derived from MIS-C cohorts with median ages around 8-11 years that included some adolescents, rather than exclusively children aged 0-12 years. One MIS-C study reported long-term hypertension in 14% of children. A cross-sectional Italian cohort of mild COVID-19 demonstrated hyperfiltration, proteinuria, and microhaematuria at ~3 months, though chronicity could not be assessed due to absence of baseline values. A large US EHR-based cohort identified increased CKD risk after COVID-19 in the broader < 21-year population; however, 0-12-year-specific event counts were not reported, preventing quantitative synthesis for young children. Conclusions: Evidence on long-term kidney outcomes after SARS-CoV-2 infection in children aged 0-12 years remains limited, and only a small subset of studies provided extractable, age-specific data. On the other hand, MIS-C cohorts generally show favourable renal recovery, small sample sizes, lack of control groups, and short follow-up restrict confidence in these findings. Large paediatric EHR studies suggest potential long-term renal risk in broader paediatric populations, highlighting the need for age-stratified, prospective cohorts with serial eGFR, urine studies, and blood pressure assessments. Until definitive evidence emerges, structured renal follow-up may be warranted for children with AKI or MIS-C during COVID-19.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Głuchowski A, Czarniecka-Skubina E, M Pielak (2026)

Effect of the Sous-Vide Method on the Quality of Vegetables-A Review.

Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 15(2):.

Modern gastronomy strives to combine high-quality food with the preservation of nutritional value, microbiological safety, and the sustainable use of raw materials. With the development of culinary technologies, precise heat treatment methods are gaining increasing importance, enabling better process control and more consistent quality results. This analysis aims to present the effects of the sous-vide (SV) method on the quality of vegetables in comparison with conventional heat treatment methods, such as boiling in water, steaming, cooking under increased pressure, cooking in a microwave oven, baking, grilling, and the cook-vide method. Analysis of the scientific literature has shown that the sous-vide method usually allows for the retention of greater amounts of vitamins (especially vitamin C), phenolic compounds and minerals, resulting in products with higher nutritional value and bioavailability of bioactive ingredients. Maintaining a controlled, low temperature in a vacuum environment reduces the loss of water and volatile components, which has a positive impact on the process yield as well as the color, texture, and aroma of vegetables. SV processing enhances product digestibility, preserves natural appearance, and improves food safety. Due to its hermetic packaging and limited oxygen access, this method ensures good microbiological quality and extends product shelf life. In the food service industry, SV allows for repeatable results, high sensory and technological quality, and reduced food waste. In the context of contemporary nutritional challenges and the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic, sous-vide technology is gaining importance as a method supporting food safety, sustainability, and efficient resource management in the food service industry.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Smith E, J Scholey (2026)

The Renin Angiotensin System: Insights into the Role of ACE2 in Glomerular Injury Including SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(2):.

The circulating renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a key role in regulating blood volume and electrolyte levels. While important for the maintenance of intravascular volume systemically, the local activation of tissue RAAS and the generation of angiotensin II contribute to inflammation and fibrosis. In the kidney, angiotensin II plays a key role in the development and progression of glomerular injury. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), an enzyme that degrades angiotensin II, is expressed in the glomerulus, focusing attention not only on the complexity of the RAAS but also identifying a potential new determinant of glomerular injury. Accordingly, we performed a narrative review using the search terms ACE2 and glomerulus in PubMed and Google Scholar to summarize the current understanding of the role of ACE2 in glomerular injury. We also discuss the role of ACE2 as a cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2 and the potential impact of this function on glomerular injury in the setting of COVID-19.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Smola-Dmochowska A, Śmigiel-Gac N, Jelonek K, et al (2026)

Antithrombotic Polymers: A Narrative Review on Current and Future Strategies for Their Design, Synthesis, and Application.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(2):.

Bleeding and thromboembolism are among the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Thrombosis encompasses both arterial forms-primarily associated with atherosclerosis and leading to heart attacks or strokes-and venous forms. Microvascular thrombosis typically arises in the context of sepsis or systemic inflammation, and it became particularly prominent during the COVID-19 pandemic, substantially contributing to increased mortality. Given this burden, the rapid development of new therapies using advanced techniques and materials to prevent and treat these conditions is essential. This review summarizes recent advances in the design of antithrombotic polymers, discussing mechanisms of action, surface-modification strategies, and current clinical and preclinical applications. It also outlines criteria for evaluating hemocompatibility, describes in vitro and in vivo testing methods, and highlights key barriers to translating these materials into clinical practice. The review concludes by identifying promising directions for future research, including multifunctional approaches that combine antifouling properties, controlled drug release, and bioresistance strategies with the greatest potential to reduce thromboembolic complications associated with medical materials. It further evaluates the progress made to date in combating thrombotic diseases and identifies remaining gaps in the development and clinical implementation of new antithrombotic materials.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Muntean ST, Cozac-Szoke AR, Tinca AC, et al (2026)

Molecular Aspects of Viral Pathogenesis in Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Evolving Mechanisms of Infection and Host Response.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(2):.

Although the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic no longer poses a global emergency, the virus continues to diversify and acquire immunoevasive properties. Understanding the molecular pathways that shape SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis has become essential. In this paper, we summarize the most recent current evidence on how the spike protein structurally evolves, on changes in key non-structural proteins, such as nsp14, and on host factors, such as TMPRSS2 and neuropilin-1. These changes, together, shape viral entry, replication fidelity and interferon antagonism. Given the emerging Omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2, recent articles in the literature, cryo-EM analyses, and artificial intelligence-assisted mutational modeling were analyzed to infer and contextualize mutation-driven mechanisms. It is through these changes that the virus adapts and evolves, such as optimizing angiotensin-converting enzyme binding, modifying antigenic surfaces, and accumulating mutations that affect CD8[+] T-cell recognition. Multi-omics data studies further support SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis through convergent evidence linking viral adaptation to host immune and metabolic reprogramming, as occurs in myocarditis, liver injury, and acute kidney injury. By integrating proteomic, transcriptomic, and structural findings, this work presents how the virus persists and dictates disease severity through interferon antagonism (ORF6, ORF9b, and nsp1), adaptive immune evasion, and metabolic rewiring. All these insights underscore the need for next-generation interventions that provide a multidimensional framework for understanding the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 and guiding future antiviral strategies.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Hayashi H, Kubo Y, Y Tanaka (2026)

Host Responses to SARS-CoV-2 with an Emphasis on Cytokines.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(2):.

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected societies around the world. Although the emergency phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has ended, the threat it poses remains persistent. This review aims to clarify the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection to support effective management of the disease. A central focus is the host cellular response to the viral infection, with particular emphasis on the role of cytokines. Cytokines play a dual role in antiviral defense: they contribute to the inhibition of viral replication and facilitate the clearance of pathogens, yet dysregulated cytokine responses can result in severe immunopathology. Interferons (type I, type II, and type III) and other cytokines are pivotal in activating intracellular antiviral mechanisms and in orchestrating the recruitment of immune cells through extracellular signaling. Effective immune responses to viral infections are governed not only by primary immune cells-such as dendritic cells, T lymphocytes, and B lymphocytes-but also by the local cytokine milieu shaped by infected and neighboring cells. Given the presence of endogenous inhibitors and autoantibodies in vivo, it is essential to evaluate the functional activity of cytokines in clinical samples. We propose a novel approach to quantify biologically active cytokine levels.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Ayyubova G, Bablu FE, Rahimli N, et al (2026)

Roles of Reactive Oxygen Species in Relationships Between Viral Infections and Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia.

Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 15(1):.

Emerging evidence suggests that viral infections may contribute to the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other forms of dementia. Understanding the mechanism of viral involvement in the pathogenesis of AD and related dementia (ADRD) could contribute to reducing the burden caused by these conditions, which affect a large portion of the aging population. Some studies indicate the link between AD and viral infections, notably coronaviruses and herpesviruses. In AD, excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) results in the modifications of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, contributing to synaptic dysfunction and cognitive impairments. Experimental evidence suggests that viral infections linked to ADRD induce the cellular production of ROS, possibly contributing to the pathogenesis of these conditions. Despite significant advances in defining the roles of ROS in neurological disorders and viral infections, the specific roles of ROS in virus-associated ADRD have not been thoroughly investigated. The main objective of this review article is to comprehensively provide information on the experimental evidence for the production of ROS by viruses to help the readers investigate the role of ROS in the relationship between viral infections with ADRD.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Țocu G, Ștefănescu BI, Stavăr Matei L, et al (2025)

Phagocyte NADPH Oxidase NOX2-Derived Reactive Oxygen Species in Antimicrobial Defense: Mechanisms, Regulation, and Therapeutic Potential-A Narrative Review.

Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 15(1):.

ROS derived from NADPH oxidase, particularly NOX2, are central to antimicrobial defense, coupling direct pathogen killing with redox signaling that shapes inflammation. This narrative review integrates recent advances on NOX2 structure, assembly, and spatiotemporal control in phagocytes, and outlines how ROS interact with NF-κB, MAPK, and Nrf2 networks to coordinate microbicidal activity and immune modulation. We summarize evidence that both ROS deficiency, as in chronic granulomatous disease, and uncontrolled excess, as in sepsis and severe COVID-19, drive clinically significant pathology, emphasizing the need for precise redox balance. Emerging therapeutic strategies include selective NOX2 inhibitors that limit pathological oxidative bursts, redox-modulating peptides that disrupt upstream activation cues, and Nrf2 activators that enhance endogenous antioxidant capacity, with attention to dosing challenges that preserve host defense while mitigating tissue injury. Key gaps remain in biomarker standardization, real-time in vivo ROS monitoring, and translation from animal models to patients, motivating personalized, combination approaches to redox medicine in infectious diseases.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Morelli S, D Giansanti (2025)

Recent Advances in AI-Driven Mobile Health Enhancing Healthcare-Narrative Insights into Latest Progress.

Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland), 13(1):.

BACKGROUND: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into mobile health (mHealth) applications has been accelerated by the widespread adoption of smartphones and recent technological advances, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience has expanded the role of AI-powered apps in real-time health monitoring, early detection, and personalized treatment pathways.

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Lim L, Mukasheva A, Alegbe AO, et al (2025)

Public Health Communication Challenges in Eastern Europe and Central Asia: A Scoping Review.

International journal of environmental research and public health, 23(1):.

This scoping review examines public health communication across nine Eastern European and Central Asian states-Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan-highlighting how these systems have transitioned from Soviet-era legacies to contemporary practices. Eligibility criteria included the English- and Russian-language literature published from 1998 onwards, focusing on nine post-Soviet states. Sources of evidence comprised searches in Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, SSRN, Heliyon, MEDLINE/PubMed, and official government websites. Data were charted by three independent reviewers using a standardized form, with discrepancies resolved by senior reviewers. The review identifies persistent gaps in communication during health crises, with a particular focus on the COVID-19 pandemic, where centralized and hierarchical information flows often undermine transparency and responsiveness, as well as further increased health inequalities between rural and urban health outcomes. Despite ongoing reforms, the communication dimension of healthcare systems remains underdeveloped. Findings reveal that centralized and top-down communication remains a dominant feature across the region, hindering timely dissemination of information and limiting the capacity to counter misinformation, as both misinformation and disinformation sometimes emerge from the government. Ultimately, this review contributes a critical analysis of these systematic communication failures and underscores the need to strengthen public health communication and reduce health inequalities. To do it, governments must prioritize transparency, disclose decision-making processes, and rely on evidence-based messaging to build trust. Effective crisis response requires not only government leadership but also the active engagement of the medical and patient communities, supported by civil society and independent media. This review points out the need for more inclusive, transparent, and trust-oriented communication strategies to enhance public health preparedness and resilience in nine Eastern European and Central Asian contexts.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Kostev K, Konrad M, J Bohlken (2026)

Real-World Evidence for Psychiatric Disorders from the German Disease Analyzer Database: A Narrative Review.

Brain sciences, 16(1):.

The German IQVIA Disease Analyzer (DA) database has become an increasingly important source of real-world evidence for psychiatric research. Over the past decade, and particularly since 2020, DA-based studies have addressed a broad spectrum of psychiatric outcomes including depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, dementia, sleep disorders, and the mental health consequences of chronic somatic diseases and of contracting COVID-19. Using large, representative outpatient cohorts, these studies have examined factors associated with the incidence of psychiatric disorders, patterns of psychiatric and somatic comorbidity, treatment trajectories, and long-term outcomes under routine care conditions. The DA database's longitudinal structure, nationwide coverage, and inclusion of multiple medical specialties enable it to capture psychiatric disorders throughout patient lifetimes and across different clinical contexts. This narrative review summarizes psychiatric research using the DA database that has been published since 2020, focusing on study design, main findings, methodological strengths and limitations, and implications for future psychiatric epidemiology and clinical research.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Förster CY, S Shityakov (2026)

A Possible Role for the Vagus Nerve in Physical and Mental Health.

Biomolecules, 16(1):.

For decades, researchers have explored the therapeutic potential of the vagus nerve through vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). Initially developed for epilepsy, VNS has since been applied to treat resistant depression, stroke recovery, and inflammatory conditions. Transcutaneous VNS (tVNS) now offers a noninvasive alternative, fueling clinical trials in disorders ranging from rheumatoid arthritis and migraines to long COVID-19. Mechanistic studies suggest that afferent and efferent vagal fibers modulate immune responses, mood regulation, and neurotransmitter systems. The SPARC initiative has accelerated mapping of vagal circuits, enabling more precise approaches to stimulation. Despite progress, the results remain mixed: while some patients experience lasting symptom relief, others respond no better than to placebo. Depression studies, in particular, highlight both the promise and the complexity of VNS, as inflammation, motivation circuits, and gut-brain signaling emerge as key modulators. Next-generation closed-loop devices and circuit-specific targeting may improve efficacy and reduce adverse effects. VNS research thus lies at the intersection of neuromodulation, psychiatry, and immunology-offering hope for hard-to-treat conditions, yet demanding rigorous trials to separate myths from medicine. In this article, we review the current clinical and experimental applications of tVNS, analyze its mixed efficacy across psychiatric, immunological, and neurological disorders, and highlight the mechanistic insights, stimulation parameters, and emerging technologies that may shape next-generation therapies.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Baindara P, Dinata R, R Kumar (2026)

Yeast-Based Vaccine Platforms: Applications and Key Insights from the COVID-19 Era.

Biomolecules, 16(1):.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated vaccine innovation but also exposed weaknesses in global access and manufacturing. Yeast-based platforms, particularly Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Pichia pastoris, also known as Komagataella phaffii, offer a practical complement to vector systems. These eukaryotic microorganisms combine safety, scalability, and cost-effectiveness with the ability to express complex antigens and assemble virus-like particles. Building on the success of the recombinant hepatitis B vaccine, recent advances in glycoengineering, CRISPR-based host optimization, and surface display technologies have expanded the utility of yeast-based platforms for the rapid development of vaccines. Yeast-derived SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) subunit vaccines, such as Corbevax and Abdala (CIGB-66), demonstrate that affordable, immunogenic, and thermostable products are feasible at scale. Emerging innovations in glycan humanization, thermostable formulations, and oral or mucosal delivery highlight the potential of yeast-based vaccines for decentralized manufacturing and equitable pandemic preparedness. This review summarizes recent technical and clinical progress in yeast-based vaccine research, positioning these platforms as accessible and adaptable tools for future outbreak responses and global immunization strategies.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Lefebvre M, Chahinian H, Yahi N, et al (2026)

The Enigmatic Conserved Q134-F135-N137 Triad in SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein: A Conformational Transducer?.

Biomolecules, 16(1):.

Lipid raft-associated gangliosides facilitate the early stages of SARS-CoV-2 entry by triggering the exposure of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) within the trimeric spike protein, which is initially sequestered. A broad range of in silico, cryoelectron microscopy and physicochemical approaches indicate that the RBD becomes accessible after a ganglioside-induced conformational rearrangement originating in the N-terminal domain (NTD) of one protomer and propagating to the neighboring RBD. We previously identified a triad of amino acids, Q134-F135-N137, as a strictly conserved element on the NTD. In the present review, we integrate a series of structural and experimental data revealing that this triad may act as a conformational transducer connected to a chain of residues that are capable of transmitting an internal conformational wave within the NTD. This wave is generated at the triad level after physical interactions with lipid raft gangliosides of the host cell membrane. It propagates inside the NTD and collides with the RBD of a neighboring protomer, triggering its unmasking. We also identify a chain of aromatic residues that are capable of controlling electron transfer through the NTD, leading us to hypothesize the existence of a dual conformational/quantum wave. In conclusion, the complete conservation of the Q134-F135-N137 triad despite six years of extensive NTD remodeling underscores its critical role in the viral life cycle. This triad represents a potential Achilles' heel within the hyper-variable NTD, offering a stable target for therapeutic or vaccinal interventions to disrupt the conformational wave and prevent infection. These possibilities are discussed.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-28

Ortello C, Pace L, Farina D, et al (2026)

Suidae Coronaviruses: Epidemiology, Transmission, and Molecular Diagnosis.

Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 16(2):.

The emergence and spread of swine coronaviruses represent a growing challenge for both veterinary medicine and public health. These viruses exhibit high mutation rates, recombination potential, and the capacity for cross-species transmission. Among the most relevant pathogens are PEDV, TGEV, PRCV, PHEV, PDCoV, and SADS-CoV, which have caused significant outbreaks in swine production systems worldwide, with severe economic consequences. Recent evidence demonstrates coronavirus circulation in wild boar populations across Europe, including Italy, Spain, and Germany. Although wild boars are not confirmed as primary reservoirs, their ecological behavior and increasing overlap with domestic pigs raise concern over their potential role in maintaining viral circulation. Future research priorities should focus on developing a more integrated and coordinated system for the control of swine coronaviruses, including strengthened surveillance in both domestic pigs and wild boar populations, the use of molecular epidemiology techniques to identify emerging variants, and structured collaboration among veterinary, ecological, health, and regulatory sectors. Finally, investment is needed in the development of next-generation vaccines and diagnostic tools to address the considerable genetic variability of swine coronaviruses and to improve the prevention and early detection of and response to future epidemic threats.

RevDate: 2026-01-28

Abusbaitan HA, Gondwe KW, Pirsch A, et al (2026)

Food insecurity and gender-based violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review.

BMC public health pii:10.1186/s12889-026-26253-3 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Gender-based violence (GBV) and food insecurity are conditions that affect women and may also exacerbate each other, as women experience disproportionately higher levels of both globally. Both of these conditions also increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this systematic review was to describe how the association between food insecurity and GBV across multiple global regions during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted women. The review aims to inform equity-driven interventions and policy development in the event for use during future emergency crises.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-27

Güzel S, Baysal HY, Türkoğlu N, et al (2026)

Factors ınfluencing vaccine refusal in children: an umbrella review on COVID-19 and childhood vaccinations.

BMC public health pii:10.1186/s12889-026-26365-w [Epub ahead of print].

Vaccination is a fundamental public health intervention that saves millions of lives and extends human lifespan. However, vaccine hesitancy and refusal have grown into a global threat due to misinformation. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the critical role of vaccines in reducing mortality rates and controlling outbreaks. Parents' attitudes toward vaccines directly affect children's health and vaccination rates in the community. Therefore, understanding the underlying reasons for parents' refusal of childhood vaccines and the COVID-19 vaccine is of great importance for combating epidemics and public health. The umbrella review method was used in this study. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses conducted between January 1, 2020, and December 30, 2024, were examined in this context. The pandemic period and recent history were considered due to the increase in systematic reviews examining the rapidly rising rates of vaccine refusal after the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies published in English in the PubMed, Wos, and Scopus databases were searched. Fifteen studies were included in the research. In conclusion, socio-demographic factors were found to be a major factor in COVID-19 vaccine refusal, whereas factors such as the "information factor," "vaccine-related factors," and "Cognitive Factors" were found to be more prominent in childhood vaccine refusal.

RevDate: 2026-01-27

Sullivan DJ, Reik R, Prichard A, et al (2026)

COVID-19 convalescent plasma safety and efficacy analysis for biologics license application approval.

Expert review of anti-infective therapy [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 convalescent plasma with high anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels transfused within 6 months from donor collection was formally approved by the Food and Drug Administration in December 2024 for COVID-19 treatment in immunocompromised patients. Here we summarize the safety and efficacy data submitted for the Biologics License Application.

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-05

Dağdeviren İ, Uygur MM, EÇ Keleş (2026)

The impact of thyroid dysfunction on COVID-19 severity and mortality: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis.

Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry, 584:120851 pii:S0009-8981(26)00033-1 [Epub ahead of print].

Thyroid function abnormalities have been increasingly reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), yet the clinical significance of these alterations remains uncertain. Because early identification of individuals at risk for severe illness is essential, this study systematically evaluated the association between thyroid dysfunction and COVID-19 severity. A comprehensive search of major databases identified 4260 records, of which 13 observational studies met the eligibility criteria, yielding a total of 2829 patients from diverse geographical regions. Mild, moderate, and non-ICU patients were categorized as the non-severe group, while the severe-to-critical group included patients classified as severe or critical, those requiring ICU admission, or hospitalized in dedicated COVID-19 wards according to the criteria used in the original studies. The pooled analysis demonstrated that total and free triiodothyronine (TT3 and FT3) levels were consistently lower in patients with more severe disease, and thyroid dysfunction was associated with 4.8-fold higher odds of severe-to-critical COVID-19. Although thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were reduced in patients with COVID-19 compared with non-infected individuals, TSH alone did not predict disease severity. Higher TT3 and FT3 concentrations were consistently associated with a milder clinical course. These findings suggest that thyroid function tests may provide useful prognostic information in patients with COVID-19. The observed hormonal patterns may reflect alterations along the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis; however, this interpretation remains hypothetical and requires confirmation through studies incorporating direct pituitary hormone assessment. Low TT3 and FT3 levels appear to be associated with worse clinical outcomes in COVID-19 patients, suggesting their potential utility as prognostic indicators. However, further prospective studies are needed before recommending routine monitoring for clinical management.

RevDate: 2026-02-05
CmpDate: 2026-01-27

Song J, Lee JH, Park H, et al (2026)

Long-Term Pulmonary Function and Radiologic Abnormalities Up to 3 Years After COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Korean journal of radiology, 27(2):174-185.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate the long-term trajectory of pulmonary function test (PFT) and CT findings in COVID-19 survivors.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-01-27

Faria C, Daneshi K, Baser A, et al (2026)

The global prevalence of eating disorders in children and young people: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

European child & adolescent psychiatry [Epub ahead of print].

The increase in eating disorder (ED) presentations among children and young people (CYP) during the Covid-19 pandemic represents a global health concern, given the associated morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions. We conducted a meta-analysis to estimate the worldwide pooled prevalence of EDs in CYP at a population level. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and LILACS for all English-language studies reporting population level ED prevalence data between January 2013 to February 27th, 2024. The primary outcome was overall prevalence of EDs. We used a random-effects model for the meta-analysis, I[2] statistics to assess heterogeneity, and the Hoy scale for quality assessment. This study is registered with PROSPERO, number CRD42022333223. Sixteen studies including 77,714 children and young people from 12 countries met eligibility criteria and were included in the systematic review, whilst twelve studies with 56,758 participants provided data suitable for inclusion in the meta-analysis. Study quality was moderate; ten studies were classified with a low risk of bias, one with moderate and five with high. The global point prevalence for any ED was 5.23% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 10.05, I[2]= 99.95%). The commonest type was Other Specified Feeding or ED (point prevalence of 4.88%, 95% CI 1.46 to 8.30, I[2]= 99.42%), which, like all types of ED was more common among girls (5.25%, 95% CI 0.32 to 10.18, I[2]= 99.69%) than boys (3.97%, 95% CI 0.45 to 7.49, I[2]= 97.77%), although confidence intervals overlapped. Our findings illustrate the urgent need to expand service provision as well as to evaluate and develop strategies for early ED identification in children and young people, given a global prevalence of 1 in 20.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-27

Klimonda A, I Kowalska (2025)

From Environmental Threat to Control: A Review of Technologies for Removal of Quaternary Ammonium Compounds from Wastewater.

Membranes, 16(1):.

Cationic surfactants from the group of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) are widely used in disinfectants, cosmetics, and household and industrial products. Their strong antimicrobial activity and chemical stability make them valuable in applications but also highly persistent and toxic when released into aquatic environments. This problem has become increasingly relevant during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, when global use of QAC-based disinfectants increased drastically, resulting in their frequent detection in municipal, hospital, and industrial effluents. The concentrations of QACs reported in wastewater range from trace levels to several mg/L, often reaching inhibitory thresholds for biological treatment processes. Although surfactants are not listed in any current European directive, the revised Directive (EU) 2024/1440 classifies micropollutants as a priority group, imposing stricter environmental quality standards and mandatory monitoring requirements. Within this regulatory framework, QACs are recognized as compounds of emerging concern, and their effective removal from wastewater has become a critical challenge. This review summarizes the current knowledge on conventional treatment technologies (coagulation, adsorption, ion exchange, advanced oxidation, and biological processes) and membrane-based methods (ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, forward osmosis, and hybrid systems) for the removal of cationic surfactants from water and wastewater. Mechanisms of separation, performance, and operational limitations are discussed.

RevDate: 2026-01-31
CmpDate: 2026-01-27

Parikh RR, Shetty NU, Singhal C, et al (2026)

Telehealth for Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare: Evidence Map of Effectiveness, Patient and Provider Experiences and Preferences, and Patient Engagement Strategies.

Clinics and practice, 16(1):.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to systematically map evidence to inform best practices for sexual and reproductive healthcare delivered via telehealth (TeleSRH) in United States-based Title X-funded clinics.

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

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

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

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