@article {pmid41962688,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, M and Driscoll, MS},
title = {Hypervitaminosis: The deleterious effects of vitamins on the skin.},
journal = {Clinics in dermatology},
volume = {44},
number = {3},
pages = {442-453},
doi = {10.1016/j.clindermatol.2026.04.011},
pmid = {41962688},
issn = {1879-1131},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamins/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Niacin/adverse effects ; Vitamin E/adverse effects ; *Dietary Supplements/adverse effects ; Vitamin A/adverse effects ; Biotin/adverse effects ; Vitamin D/adverse effects ; *Skin Diseases/chemically induced ; *Skin/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {Vitamin supplementation has recently shown a dramatic increase in usage, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a potential aid in preventing, treating, and recovering from infection. In dermatology, vitamin supplements may be used to support the management of a myriad of conditions. A common misconception is that vitamins are safe to consume and that taking more will improve overall health; however, hypervitaminosis may lead to harmful effects. We provide an overview illustrating the use of vitamins A, D, E, niacin, and biotin in dermatology and the potential adverse effects of hypervitaminosis.},
}

Humans
*Vitamins/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Niacin/adverse effects
Vitamin E/adverse effects
*Dietary Supplements/adverse effects
Vitamin A/adverse effects
Biotin/adverse effects
Vitamin D/adverse effects
*Skin Diseases/chemically induced
*Skin/drug effects
COVID-19

@article {pmid41966154,
year = {2025},
author = {Eshete, MT and Shrestha, P and Ang, C and Valderas, JM and Heymann, DL and Nordström, A and Lee, K and Cook, A and Wenham, C and Perel, P and Miranda, JJ and Garcia-Basteiro, AL and Clark, H and Legido-Quigley, H and Engebretsen, E},
title = {Exploring Grassroots Indicators for Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response: A Systematic Narrative Review.},
journal = {International journal of health policy and management},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {8886},
pmid = {41966154},
issn = {2322-5939},
mesh = {Humans ; Pandemic Preparedness ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Public Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed how conventional top-down, expert-driven indicators often fail to align with local community realities, marginalising their perspectives, concerns, knowledge, and narratives. However, the limitations of pandemic-related and global health security indicators are not unique but reflect recurring patterns across major social metrics. In response, an alternative paradigm advocates for grassroots-inclusive approaches to developing indicators. Our objective is to assess how and why grassroots-inclusive approaches complement top-down approaches to developing indicators, and to synthesise their theoretical and practical contributions to public health.

METHODS: We conducted a scoping review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. We systematically searched six databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycINFO), as well as Google Scholar, to identify relevant articles published from their inception to September 1, 2024. We included peer-reviewed articles, opinion pieces, and book chapters, narratively synthesising their findings.

RESULTS: This review included 43 studies from various disciplines. Across these studies, communities co-produced indicators through participatory workshops, interviews, and consensus exercises in areas such as environmental sustainability, disaster resilience, public health, well-being, and local development. The reported strengths included greater local relevance, community ownership, and accountability, alongside challenges in sustaining participation, integrating into top-down systems, and addressing data gaps. Notably, no study applied grassroots-inclusive indicators to health security or pandemic preparedness.

CONCLUSION: Despite retrieving and analysing articles from various disciplines, no study has specifically applied grassroots-inclusive indicators to health security or pandemic preparedness. However, the evidence clearly shows that it is both feasible and practical to integrate expert and non-expert perspectives when developing indicators.},
}

Humans
Pandemic Preparedness
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Public Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41973776,
year = {2026},
author = {Fam, JY and Männikkö, N},
title = {Can the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale be adapted across contexts? Evidence from a COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments systematic review.},
journal = {Psychology of addictive behaviors : journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors},
volume = {40},
number = {4},
pages = {484-497},
doi = {10.1037/adb0001149},
pmid = {41973776},
issn = {1939-1501},
mesh = {Humans ; *Psychometrics ; *Social Media ; COVID-19 ; Reproducibility of Results ; *Internet Addiction Disorder/diagnosis ; *Behavior, Addictive/diagnosis ; Pandemics ; *Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/standards ; Consensus ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale (BFAS) has served as a foundation for a series of adapted measures designed to assess social media-related behavioral addictions. Despite widespread application of these instruments, a systematic evaluation of their psychometric properties is lacking. This review aimed to evaluate the measurement properties of the BFAS and its adaptations using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology.

METHOD: A systematic search was conducted to identify psychometric studies of the BFAS and its adapted versions, including the BFAS-18, Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), Bergen Mukbang Addiction Scale, Social Media Addiction during COVID-19 Pandemic scale, and Social Networks Addiction Scale-6 Symptoms. Eligible studies were assessed using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist, and the quality of evidence was graded according to the COSMIN-Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

RESULTS: A total of 55 studies were included. The BFAS and BSMAS demonstrated strong evidence for structural validity, internal consistency, measurement invariance, and hypothesis testing, with high-quality evidence across multiple domains. The BFAS-18 and Bergen Mukbang Addiction Scale received more limited and inconsistent support, while the Social Media Addiction during COVID-19 Pandemic scale and Social Networks Addiction Scale-6 Symptoms remain underexplored with very low-quality evidence. Across all scales, evidence for content validity, reliability, measurement error, and responsiveness was sparse, highlighting important gaps.

CONCLUSIONS: The BFAS and BSMAS currently represent the most robust instruments for assessing Facebook and social media addiction, respectively. However, additional research is required to strengthen evidence for other adaptations, particularly in relation to content validity, measurement error, and responsiveness, as well as to evaluate linguistic and cultural invariance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).},
}

Humans
*Psychometrics
*Social Media
COVID-19
Reproducibility of Results
*Internet Addiction Disorder/diagnosis
*Behavior, Addictive/diagnosis
Pandemics
*Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/standards
Consensus
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41974008,
year = {2026},
author = {Albaloul, H and Nemer, A and Saini, N and Schuster, MG},
title = {Infectious Diseases: What You May Have Missed in 2025.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {5_Supplement},
pages = {e2600983},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-26-00983},
pmid = {41974008},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; HIV Infections/drug therapy ; Influenza Vaccines/therapeutic use ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {This article highlights clinical trials on infectious diseases published in 2025 that we believe are highly relevant to internal medicine physicians who are not infectious diseases specialists. Selected studies address prevention and treatment strategies across infectious diseases. We highlight 2 studies of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): one examining the effectiveness of treating male partners to reduce recurrence of bacterial vaginosis and another study of doxycycline as postexposure prophylaxis against bacterial STI. A strategy for using methanamine hippurate to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older women is included in our review. We review the updated evidence supporting the effectiveness of COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza vaccines for the 2025-2026 season, and a modified messenger RNA influenza vaccine, which showed superior efficacy with an acceptable safety profile. In HIV care, a study of dual antiretroviral maintenance therapy showed that dolutegravir and lamivudine was noninferior to triple therapy at 48 weeks. A meta-analysis supporting shorter antibiotic courses for pyelonephritis and complicated UTIs provides important information for antibiotic stewardship strategies. In serious infections, dalbavancin was noninferior to standard therapy for Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, whereas cefiderocol expanded treatment options for gram-negative bloodstream infections without clear superiority, particularly in carbapenem-resistant pathogens. Finally, a study found that elevated C-reactive protein identifies patients most likely to benefit from adjunctive corticosteroids in community-acquired pneumonia.},
}

Humans
Female
HIV Infections/drug therapy
Influenza Vaccines/therapeutic use
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid41974432,
year = {2026},
author = {Watanabe, H and Nagao, R and Kawabata, K and Mizutani, Y},
title = {[Olfactory Nerve: The Vulnerability Inherent in its Unique System and Neurological Diseases].},
journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo},
volume = {78},
number = {4},
pages = {303-311},
doi = {10.11477/mf.188160960780040303},
pmid = {41974432},
issn = {1881-6096},
mesh = {Humans ; *Olfactory Nerve/pathology/physiopathology ; *Parkinson Disease/complications ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Nervous System Diseases ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The olfactory nerve possesses unique anatomical features, including direct central nervous system (CNS) projection and continuous regeneration. Scientific advances have elucidated mechanisms such as combinatorial receptor coding and signal amplification. This review summarizes these foundations and examines olfactory dysfunction in COVID-19 and Parkinson's disease (PD). In COVID-19, evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 targets sustentacular cells rather than olfactory neurons, causing gene downregulation and parosmia attributed to incomplete peripheral filtering, while direct CNS invasion remains rare. In PD, olfactory loss is a prodromal feature. However, seed amplification assays reveal that alpha-synuclein aggregation in the nasal mucosa does not fully correlate with olfactory dysfunction, as reflected by differences between PD and Multiple System Atrophy. This, together with correlations with cardiac sympathetic denervation, challenges simple pathogen propagation hypotheses. We propose that PD-related hyposmia reflects a systemic vulnerability involving deficits in energy metabolism and neural network organization, rather than solely peripheral protein aggregation. Understanding these pathologies requires a multifaceted approach beyond anatomical lesions.},
}

Humans
*Olfactory Nerve/pathology/physiopathology
*Parkinson Disease/complications
*COVID-19/complications
*Nervous System Diseases
Animals

@article {pmid41979291,
year = {2026},
author = {Abid, S and Jannath, H},
title = {Cardiac Effects in Post-COVID-19 Heart Failure: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Imaging- and Biomarker-Based Structural and Functional Remodeling.},
journal = {Annals of cardiac anaesthesia},
volume = {29},
number = {2},
pages = {157-168},
pmid = {41979291},
issn = {0974-5181},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; Biomarkers/blood ; *Heart Failure/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/etiology/blood ; *Ventricular Remodeling/physiology ; Echocardiography ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Global Longitudinal Strain ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 has been linked to persistent cardiovascular sequelae, yet the trajectory of structural and functional cardiac changes beyond the acute phase remains unclear. This systematic review synthesizes longitudinal evidence on post-COVID cardiac remodeling assessed by imaging and biomarkers. Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed and Cochrane Library (January 2020-April 2025) for peer-reviewed studies enrolling adults (≥18 years) with polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/antigen-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and reporting cardiac outcomes ≥ 12 weeks post-infection. Eligible outcomes included imaging-based abnormalities (cardiac magnetic resonance [CMR]: T1/T2 mapping, late gadolinium enhancement [LGE]; echocardiography: left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF], LV/RV strain). Longitudinal trends of biomarkers (troponin, NT-proBNP, C-reactive protein [CRP]) were also studied. Risk of bias was assessed using joanna briggs institute (JBI) tools; synthesis followed synthesis without metaanalysis (SWiM) principles. Fifteen studies (n ≈ 166,000; 14 cohorts, 1 case report) were included. Across CMR cohorts, global systolic function was largely preserved, but tissue abnormalities were frequent early and improved over time: edema indices normalized by ~ 12 months, while LGE prevalence declined (e.g. 50%→19% in paired scans). However, residual non-ischemic scars and elevated T1/T2 persisted in symptomatic subgroups. Echocardiography showed normal LVEF, but subtle left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS) impairment versus controls (e.g. -18.5% vs - 19.3%). Biomarker trends were heterogeneous: natriuretic peptide positivity persisted in patients with prior cardiovascular disease (CVD), while troponin and CRP generally normalized. Large population-based cohorts demonstrated sustained 12-month risk for heart failure, myocarditis, and major cardiovascular events, graded by acute severity. Most patients recover gross systolic function, yet subclinical myocardial changes and elevated population-level cardiovascular risk persist up to 1 year. These findings support risk-stratified follow-up, judicious use of advanced imaging, and preventive cardiology strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
Biomarkers/blood
*Heart Failure/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/etiology/blood
*Ventricular Remodeling/physiology
Echocardiography
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Global Longitudinal Strain
Magnetic Resonance Imaging

@article {pmid41985440,
year = {2026},
author = {Crotty, S},
title = {Immunological memory to vaccines.},
journal = {Immunity},
volume = {59},
number = {4},
pages = {813-832},
pmid = {41985440},
issn = {1097-4180},
support = {U19 AI142742/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; UM1 AI144462/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunologic Memory/immunology ; *Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; B-Lymphocytes/immunology ; CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Adaptive Immunity ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {The extraordinary success of vaccines saving lives and improving human health is predicated on immune memory. Within the armamentarium of adaptive immunity, a holistic view of the different components contributing to immune protection is important for understanding the myriad benefits of vaccines. This review presents the current understanding of vaccine-generated memory, integrating layers of immunity including B cells, CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, and antibody responses, with emphasis on human vaccine data. Functions and durability of distinct memory types are considered, including those of tissue-resident and circulating cells as well as hybrid immunity, and within this context, common misconceptions and important next questions are discussed. Understanding the multifaceted layers that underlie protective immunity can guide future vaccines and broader immune-focused interventions. A video lecture accompanies this review (https://youtu.be/8DeZJ6V7nuI). VIDEO ABSTRACT.},
}

Humans
*Immunologic Memory/immunology
*Vaccines/immunology
Animals
CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
B-Lymphocytes/immunology
CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Adaptive Immunity
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control

@article {pmid41985976,
year = {2026},
author = {Davies, SR and Davies, AL and Higgins, JPT and Caldwell, DM and Thornton, ZA and Aiton, E and Ali, I and Dawson, S and McGrath, C and Parkhouse, T and Yardley, L and Yates, J and Letley, L and Ismail, SA and Christensen, H and French, CE},
title = {Effectiveness of interventions to increase vaccine uptake: component network meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMJ (Clinical research ed.)},
volume = {393},
number = {},
pages = {e087578},
pmid = {41985976},
issn = {1756-1833},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Adherence Interventions ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Immunization Programs ; Bayes Theorem ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To identify the effective components of interventions to increase vaccine uptake and to explore variations in effectiveness by population group and in relation to the covid-19 pandemic.

DESIGN: Component network meta-analysis.

SETTING: Systematic review of randomised controlled trials in high and upper middle income countries.

PARTICIPANTS: 237 studies with 570 intervention arms and 4 361 717 participants.

INTERVENTIONS: Any intervention targeting vaccine recipients or their caregivers aiming to increase demand for, or access to, vaccinations on the UK immunisation schedule. Key content and delivery features of interventions were identified using a bespoke coding framework co-developed with stakeholders.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The outcome of interest was vaccine uptake. Bayesian component level meta-regression estimated relative effects of intervention components as ratios of odds ratios with 95% credible intervals (CrIs).

RESULTS: Of the included studies, 110 were at low risk of bias, 96 had some concerns, and 31 were at high risk. 40% (n=1 744 686) of the participants were male. For children, there was evidence of beneficial effects for payments to cover costs (ratio of odds ratios 3.01, 95% CrI 1.49 to 6.06) and decision aids (2.73, 1.14 to 7.06), and some evidence for extended opportunities (1.37, 0.98 to 1.95) and social factors (1.27, 0.99 to 1.65). For adolescents and young adults, there were beneficial effects for personal delivery formats (2.13, 1.09 to 4.40), delivery by community members alongside healthcare professionals (6.42, 1.94 to 25.62), and social factors (2.62, 1.45 to 5.04), and negative effects for decision aids (0.43, 0.18 to 0.98) and human versus non-human interaction (0.47, 0.21 to 1.02). For adults, beneficial effects were shown for human interaction (1.86, 1.42 to 2.45), extended opportunities (1.63, 1.35 to 2.00), help with appointment scheduling (1.38, 1.06 to 1.78), payments to cover costs (1.47, 1.03 to 2.16), and motivational interviewing (1.79, 1.21 to 2.64), and there was some evidence for financial incentives (1.15, 0.99 to 1.35) and information on vaccine safety and/or efficacy (1.15, 0.99 to 1.32). For adults, evidence also showed a negative effect of non-human interaction versus no interaction (0.72, 0.57 to 0.92). Subgroup analyses showed variation for underserved populations and in relation to the covid-19 pandemic (before 2020 and 2020 onwards).

CONCLUSION: Overall, extended opportunities, appointment scheduling help, financial incentives, payments to cover costs, and motivational interviewing were effective content components of interventions to increase vaccine uptake. Effective delivery components overall were human interaction and delivery by community members alongside healthcare professionals. However, effective components varied by age group, for underserved populations, and in analyses investigating the impact of the covid-19 pandemic. These findings have important implications for designing, optimising, and implementing targeted interventions, highlighting which components are effective across different populations and contexts. Consideration of the economic data on interventions should further support resource informed decision making.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Adherence Interventions
Pandemics/prevention & control
*Immunization Programs
Bayes Theorem

@article {pmid41987025,
year = {2026},
author = {Mora Castaño, I and Hasbun, R},
title = {Neurological manifestations of respiratory viral infections.},
journal = {Current opinion in infectious diseases},
volume = {39},
number = {3},
pages = {218-226},
doi = {10.1097/QCO.0000000000001189},
pmid = {41987025},
issn = {1473-6527},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/complications/virology/epidemiology ; *Nervous System Diseases/virology/etiology/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Virus Diseases/complications ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review summarizes current evidence on the general epidemiology, routes of central nervous system (CNS) invasion, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment considerations associated with neurological complications of respiratory viral infections. Greater awareness of the neurological impact of respiratory viral infections is crucial to improving patient outcomes and mitigating long-term burden of these diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies have reinforced the association between respiratory viral infections and a broad spectrum of neurological complications. Evidence accumulated during and after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has expanded this awareness, and emerging data suggest that immune-mediated mechanisms such as glial cell activation, rather than direct viral neurotropism alone, play a central role in CNS injury. Although diagnostic limitations still exist, some advances have been made to increase specificity of resources available for clinicians, particularly PCR and immunologic profiling. Furthermore, vaccination against certain respiratory viruses may reduce the risk of subsequent neurodegenerative disease, highlighting the potential impact of preventive strategies on long-term neurological burden.

SUMMARY: Establishing causality between respiratory viral infections and subsequent neurological dysfunction remains challenging given the ubiquitous nature of many respiratory viruses and their capacity to cause lifelong latent or persistent infection. Even though some efforts have been made to optimize diagnosis and treatment, addressing these challenges will require further coordinated efforts across clinicians, researchers and healthcare policymakers.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Tract Infections/complications/virology/epidemiology
*Nervous System Diseases/virology/etiology/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Virus Diseases/complications
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41995128,
year = {2026},
author = {Gonah, L and Ginindza, TG and Hlongwana, KW},
title = {Mapping global evidence on compassion fatigue among healthcare workers during COVID-19: insights and implications for future preparedness - a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {04130},
pmid = {41995128},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; *Compassion Fatigue/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; Risk Factors ; Frontline Workers ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Compassion fatigue (CF) is a critical occupational hazard for healthcare workers (HCWs), intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic, with implications for well-being, retention, and quality of care. We aimed to map the global evidence on CF prevalence, risk factors, effects, interventions, and research gaps among HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A scoping review of 56 studies from 21 countries (2020-2025) was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Seven databases were searched, and findings were synthesised narratively with attention to occupational, demographic, and systemic determinants of CF.

RESULTS: Compassion fatigue prevalence ranged from 20 to 87%. It was most pronounced among nurses, women, frontline staff, early-career professionals, and those in under-resourced or rural settings. Key risk factors included high workload, long shifts, repeated exposure to death, moral distress, and limited organisational support. Symptoms encompassed emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, diminished empathy, and co-occurring anxiety, depression, or secondary traumatic stress. Interventions (resilience and peer-support programmes, self-compassion training, motivational messaging, and mobile psychoeducation) showed small-to-moderate benefits but were limited by methodological heterogeneity and scarce robust evaluation. Temporally, CF peaked during early pandemic surges and persisted among frontline staff and in resource-constrained or long-COVID contexts.

CONCLUSIONS: Compassion fatigue is a multifactorial, context-dependent hazard disproportionately affecting vulnerable HCWs. Effective mitigation requires longitudinal research, inclusive global representation, and multi-level strategies linking individual resilience with organisational reform and policy action to safeguard HCW well-being in current and future crises.},
}

Humans
*Compassion Fatigue/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Health Personnel/psychology
Risk Factors
Frontline Workers
Prevalence

@article {pmid41996417,
year = {2026},
author = {Byrd, W and Salehi, N and Henderson, C},
title = {Covid-19 testing, sick-pay and public health outbreak management of respiratory infections in care homes: three rapid reviews of the literature.},
journal = {Journal of public health (Oxford, England)},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {539-542},
pmid = {41996417},
issn = {1741-3850},
support = {NIHR154310//UK National Institute for Health Research Health and Social Care Delivery Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; COVID-19 Testing ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Public Health ; *Nursing Homes ; Betacoronavirus ; *Clinical Laboratory Techniques ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Credible and costed plans for managing future outbreaks of Covid-19 and other respiratory infections depend on the availability of good quality evidence. Methods: Three rapid reviews (RRs) examined evidence on: Bibliographic database searches for each RR and supplementary grey literature searches of Google for RR1 and RR3.

RESULTS: RR1 included 1 study, RR2 none, and RR3, 1 report. RR1: a study of testing undertaken during an outbreak of Covid-19 in one care home. RR3: a report briefly described recommended inputs of one local authority's public health service into managing outbreaks of respiratory infections in settings including care homes.

CONCLUSION: The reviews found little-to-no recent evidence on care home providers' policy and practice on asymptomatic Covid-19 testing, care home sick pay and/or shift backfill, and the incidence of Covid-19 and other respiratory infections, nor on costs of public health teams' outbreak management.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
COVID-19 Testing
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
*Public Health
*Nursing Homes
Betacoronavirus
*Clinical Laboratory Techniques

@article {pmid42009524,
year = {2026},
author = {Mao, M and He, Z and Wang, J and Li, M and Hao, X},
title = {[Research progress in mRNA vaccines for animal disease prevention and control].},
journal = {Sheng wu gong cheng xue bao = Chinese journal of biotechnology},
volume = {42},
number = {4},
pages = {1458-1469},
doi = {10.13345/j.cjb.250738},
pmid = {42009524},
issn = {1872-2075},
support = {2025BBF02009//the Key Research and Development Program of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region/ ; 32360877 and 32370198//the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2023AAC02016//the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Animals ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Vaccine Development ; RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {mRNA vaccines, as an emerging preventive measure, have gained widespread recognition due to their high efficacy, favorable safety profile, substantial research potential, and short development cycle. In recent years, the global pandemic of COVID-19 has greatly promoted the development of mRNA vaccines, and the research process in mRNA vaccines for animal disease prevention. This paper briefly reviews the structural and functional characteristics of mRNA vaccines, as well as the latest research progress in mRNA vaccines for animal diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites, with the aim of providing a reference for future research on mRNA vaccines for animal diseases.},
}

Animals
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control
Vaccine Development
RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid42027925,
year = {2026},
author = {Mullen, L and Kobokovich Mui, A and Watson, C and Heymann, D and McCloskey, B and Hughes, G and Bonell, C},
title = {Effectiveness of public health measures and strategies to reduce risk of spread of respiratory pathogens at sporting mass gatherings: systematic literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1789413},
pmid = {42027925},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sports ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control ; *Public Health ; *Mass Gatherings ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine the type and effectiveness of public health interventions implemented at sporting mass gatherings to mitigate respiratory infectious disease spread and understand how feasible and acceptable the interventions were to implement.

DESIGN: Systematic review.

DATA SOURCES: Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Global Health, Epistemonikos, Global Index Medicus, WHO Library, WHO IRIS, IOC and FIFA were search in June 2023 and July 2025.

Studies that assessed public health strategies for sporting mass gatherings aiming to reduced respiratory infections were included. Publications prior to 2000, predictive modeling studies, commentaries, editorials, literature reviews, pre-prints and studies that did not retrospectively discuss official sporting events were excluded.

RESULTS: Thirty-four articles assessing 37 sporting MGs were included. The most common MGs assessed were the Olympic Games (n = 10). Almost all articles described multi-layered intervention packages including bubble approaches, routine testing, country entry screening, masking, physical distancing and/or isolation and quarantine. Based on an effectiveness framework developed for this study, 23 articles described effective intervention packages, three described non-effective packages and six were indeterminate. Feasibility concerns appeared a challenge for MGs with many spectators and linked to scalability issues. Acceptability factors were likely influenced by perceptions of increased work burden, compliance levels and stakeholder engagement.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review provides the first opportunity to comprehensively map pre-pandemic and pandemic-era planning for sporting MGs and underscores the importance of multilayered, context-specific intervention packages which may meaningfully reduce the risk of respiratory disease spread.

CRD42023433619.},
}

Humans
*Sports
*Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control
*Public Health
*Mass Gatherings
*COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid42325158,
year = {2026},
author = {Ivers, N and Yogasingam, S and Lacroix, M and Brown, KA and Antony, J and Soobiah, C and Simeoni, M and Willis, TA and Crawshaw, J and Antonopoulou, V and Meyer, C and Solbak, NM and Murray, BJ and Butler, EA and Lepage, S and Giltenane, M and Carter, MD and Fontaine, G and Sykes, M and Halasy, M and Bazazo, A and Seaton, S and Canavan, T and Alderson, S and Reis, C and Linklater, S and Lalor, A and Fletcher, A and Gearon, E and Jenkins, H and Wallis, JA and Grobler, L and Beccaria, L and Cyril, S and Rozbroj, T and Han, JX and Xu, AX and Wu, K and Rouleau, G and Shah, M and Konnyu, K and Colquhoun, H and Presseau, J and O'Connor, D and Lorencatto, F and Grimshaw, JM},
title = {Audit and feedback: effects on professional practice.},
journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {CD000259},
pmid = {42325158},
issn = {1469-493X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Professional Practice/standards/statistics & numerical data ; *Feedback ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Audit and feedback (A&F) is a widely used strategy to improve professional practice. This is supported by prior Cochrane reviews and behavioural theories describing how healthcare professionals are prompted to modify their practice when given data showing that their clinical practice is inconsistent with a desirable target. Yet there remains uncertainty regarding the effects of A&F on improving healthcare practice and the characteristics of A&F that lead to a greater impact.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of A&F on the practice of healthcare professionals and to examine factors that may explain variation in the effectiveness of A&F.

SEARCH METHODS: With the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) group information scientist, we updated our search strategy to include studies published from 2010 to June 2020. Search updates were performed on 28 February 2019 and 11 June 2020. We searched MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), the Cochrane Library, clinicaltrials.gov (all dates to June 2020), WHO ICTRP (all dates to February Week 3 2019, no information available in 2020 due to COVID-19 pandemic). An updated search and duplicate screen was completed on February 14, 2022; studies that met inclusion criteria are included in the 'Studies awaiting classification' section.

SELECTION CRITERIA: Randomised trials, including cluster-trials and cross-over and factorial designs, featuring A&F (defined as measurement of clinical performance over a specified period of time (audit) and provision of the resulting data to clinicians or clinical teams (feedback)) in any trial arm that reported objectively measured health professional practice outcomes.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: For this updated review, we re-extracted data for each study arm, including theory-informed variables regarding how the A&F was conducted and behaviour change techniques for each intervention, as well as study-level characteristics including risk of bias. For each study, we extracted outcome data for every healthcare professional practice targeted by A&F. All data were extracted by a minimum of two independent review authors. For studies with dichotomous outcomes that included arms with and without A&F, we calculated risk differences (RDs) (absolute difference between arms in proportion of desired practice completed) and also odds ratios (ORs). We synthesised the median RDs and interquartile ranges (IQRs) across all trials. We then conducted meta-analyses, accounting for multiple outcomes from a given study and weighted by effective sample size, using reported (or imputed, when necessary) intra-cluster correlation coefficients. Next, we explored the role of baseline performance, co-interventions, targeted behaviour, and study design factors on the estimated effects of A&F. Finally, we conducted exploratory meta-regressions to test preselected variables that might be associated with A&F effect size: characteristics of the audit (number of indicators, aggregation of data); delivery of the feedback (multi-modal format, local champion, nature of comparator, repeated delivery); and components supporting action (facilitation, provision of specific plans for improvement, co-development of action plans).

MAIN RESULTS: We included 292 studies with 678 arms; 133 (46%) had a low risk of bias, 41 (14%) unclear, and 113 (39%) had a high risk of bias. There were 26 (9%) studies conducted in low- or middle-income countries. In most studies (237, 81%), the recipients of A&F were physicians. Professional practices most commonly targeted in the studies were prescribing (138 studies, 47%) and test-ordering (103 studies, 35%). Most studies featured multifaceted interventions: the most common co-interventions were clinician education (377 study arms, 56%) and reminders (100 study arms, 15%). Forty-eight unique behaviour change techniques were identified within the study arms (mean 5.2, standard deviation 2.8, range 1 to 29). Synthesis of 558 dichotomous outcomes measuring professional practices from 177 studies testing A&F versus control revealed a median absolute improvement in desired practice of 2.7%, with an IQR of 0.0 to 8.6. Meta-analyses of these studies, accounting for multiple outcomes from the same study and weighting by effective sample size accounting for clustering, found a mean absolute increase in desired practice of 6.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) 4.1 to 8.2; moderate-certainty evidence) and an OR of 1.47 (95% CI 1.31 to 1.64; moderate-certainty evidence). Effects were similar for pre-planned subgroup analyses focused on prescribing and test-ordering outcomes. Lower baseline performance and increased number of co-interventions were both associated with larger intervention effects. Meta-regressions comparing the presence versus absence of specific A&F components to explore heterogeneity, accounting for baseline performance and number of co-interventions, suggested that A&F effects were greater with individual-recipient-level data rather than team-level data, comparing performance to top-peers or a benchmark, involving a local champion with whom the recipient had a relationship, using interactive modalities rather than just didactic or just written format, and with facilitation to support engagement, and action plans to improve performance. The meta-regressions did not find significant effects with the number of indicators in the audit, comparison to average performance of all peers, or co-development of action plans. Contrary to expectations, repeated delivery was associated with lower effect size. Direct comparisons from head-to-head trials support the use of peer-comparisons versus no comparison at all and the use of design elements in feedback that facilitate the identification and action of high-priority clinical items.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: A&F can be effective in improving professional practice, but effects vary in size. A&F is most often delivered along with co-interventions which can contribute additive effects. A&F may be most effective when designed to help recipients prioritise and take action on high-priority clinical issues and with the following characteristics: 1. targets important performance metrics where health professionals have substantial room for improvement (audit); 2. measures the individual recipient's practice, rather than their team or organisation (audit); 3. involves a local champion with an existing relationship with the recipient (feedback); 4. includes multiple, interactive modalities such as verbal and written (feedback); 5. compares performance to top peers or a benchmark (feedback); 6. facilitates engagement with the feedback (action); 7. features an actionable plan with specific advice for improvement (action). These conclusions require further confirmatory research; future research should focus on discerning ways to optimise the effectiveness of A&F interventions.},
}

Humans
*Professional Practice/standards/statistics & numerical data
*Feedback
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid42325292,
year = {2024},
author = {Muruganantham, JK and Veerabathiran, R},
title = {Genetic Basis for Mucormycosis Progression in COVID-19 Patients: From Susceptibility to Severity.},
journal = {Infectious diseases & immunity},
volume = {4},
number = {2},
pages = {86-92},
pmid = {42325292},
issn = {2693-8839},
abstract = {The dynamics of COVID-19 and mucormycosis reveal a complex interplay of genetic factors that influence the susceptibility, severity, and immune responses. COVID-19, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), exhibits an increased incidence of mucormycosis, particularly in individuals with comorbidities or corticosteroid therapy. Mucormycosis is a fungal infection that affects the sinuses, orbits, and lungs and demands timely intervention with antifungal medications and surgery because of its life-threatening nature. Research on the genetic underpinnings of this intersection has unveiled key insights into the pathogenicity of Mucorales. Breakthroughs in genetic tools have exposed virulence factors, such as the CotH protein family and high-affinity iron-uptake mechanisms. Genetic susceptibility is a pivotal element in identifying individuals at risk of developing COVID-19, facilitating early detection, and allowing for personalized treatment strategies. DPP9, MIF, and TYK2 are among the genes implicated in COVID-19 severity, emphasizing the intricate relationship between genetic makeup and viral response. The genetic landscape extends to viral entry mechanisms, thereby affecting infection efficiency. Specific polymorphisms in genes such as IFNAR2, OAS3, and TYK2 are associated with COVID-19 severity, indicating shared genetic bases between severe and hospitalized cases. Mucormycosis is genetically predisposed, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The challenge lies in understanding the genetic factors influencing susceptibility and offering insights into pathogenesis and potential therapeutic avenues. Organ transplantation adds another layer, increasing susceptibility to infections such as COVID-19 and mucormycosis. The impact of immunosuppression on COVID-19 severity remains elusive, necessitating ongoing research on the immunological mechanisms. Despite the challenges posed by emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, the intricate connection between genetic factors and the interplay of COVID-19 and mucormycosis presents an opportunity for personalized treatment, targeted interventions, and refined public health strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42325367,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, R and Gu, X and Zhang, H and Guo, Y and Cao, B},
title = {Long COVID: current research and future directions.},
journal = {Infectious diseases & immunity},
volume = {5},
number = {4},
pages = {260-271},
pmid = {42325367},
issn = {2693-8839},
abstract = {Long coronavirus disease (COVID) is defined as the continuation or development of new symptoms three months after the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, and that last for at least two months, with no other explanation for their cause. This disease includes various clinical manifestations that affect multiple organ systems, such as complications in respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems. The most commonly reported symptoms include fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, dyspnea, and chest pain; however, the prevalence and severity of these symptoms vary greatly among individuals. The underlying mechanisms of long COVID are complex and multifaceted, encompassing viral persistence, immune system dysfunction, mitochondrial abnormalities, endothelial impairment, and alterations in the microbiome. Further, long COVID has imposed a significant burden on individuals, healthcare systems, and the economy by impairing an individual's quality of life and functional capacity, thereby increasing costs and demand for care and rehabilitation services. This review summarizes the definition, phenotypes, mechanisms, and current treatment advancements of long COVID and highlights specific research directions for future investigation.},
}

@article {pmid42325370,
year = {2025},
author = {Liu, S and Guo, Y and Wang, FS},
title = {Viral persistence in long COVID: Research advances and treatment strategies.},
journal = {Infectious diseases & immunity},
volume = {5},
number = {4},
pages = {272-288},
pmid = {42325370},
issn = {2693-8839},
abstract = {Although the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has ended, the enduring health impacts of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection continue to garner global attention, as approximately 10% of patients develop long COVID (post COVID-19 condition). The epidemiological characteristics and symptoms of long COVID have been reported, and various pathogenic hypotheses have been proposed. Recent evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acids or fragments persist in some patients post-infection and that these are correlated with long COVID symptoms. This review focuses on clinical studies linking SARS-CoV-2 persistence to long COVID symptoms, and explores the relationship between viral persistence and other etiological hypotheses, such as immune dysregulation, vascular issues, coagulation dysfunction, microbiome dysbiosis, brainstem/vagus nerve signaling dysfunction, and latent virus reactivation. Futhermore, treatment strategies for long COVID are proposed based on current clinical trials of antiviral and immune modulation therapies. Understanding the role of viral persistence in long COVID pathogenesis is critical for developing targeted therapies and improving clinical management of this debilitating condition.},
}

@article {pmid41943240,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, W and Qian, J and Peng, M and Li, Y and Hu, J},
title = {Post-COVID-19 Area Postrema Syndrome With SARS-CoV-2 in CSF: A Dual-Case Report and Review of the Literature.},
journal = {Immunity, inflammation and disease},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e70421},
pmid = {41943240},
issn = {2050-4527},
support = {ZDXM2024003//Wenshan Prefecture People's Hospital 2024 Annual Internal Scientific Research Key Projects/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications/cerebrospinal fluid ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Area Postrema/pathology/virology ; Middle Aged ; Betacoronavirus ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging ; *Neuromyelitis Optica/cerebrospinal fluid ; Immunoglobulin G/cerebrospinal fluid ; Aquaporin 4/immunology ; Autoantibodies/cerebrospinal fluid ; Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is a rare autoimmune astrocytopathy characterized by inflammatory demyelinating lesions in the central nervous system. Area postrema syndrome (APS), marked by intractable nausea, vomiting, and hiccups, is a recognized but less common initial manifestation. Post-infectious autoimmunity triggered by SARS-CoV-2 has been increasingly associated with NMOSD pathogenesis; however, the clinical significance of direct viral neuroinvasion and its relationship to divergent patient outcomes remains poorly understood.

METHODS: We report two female patients who developed isolated APS shortly after COVID-19 infection. Both patients underwent comprehensive neurological evaluation, including brain and spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis with metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS), and serological testing for aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (AQP4-IgG), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein immunoglobulin G (MOG-IgG), and glial fibrillary acidic protein immunoglobulin G (GFAP-IgG) using cell-based assays. Clinical outcomes were compared in the context of antibody serostatus and treatment strategies. A review of the relevant literature on post-COVID NMOSD was also performed.

RESULTS: Both patients presented with intractable vomiting and hiccups following SARS-CoV-2 infection, and MRI demonstrated isolated T2/FLAIR hyperintense lesions in the dorsal medulla consistent with area postrema involvement. SARS-CoV-2 RNA sequences were detected in the CSF of both patients via mNGS, suggesting direct viral neuroinvasion or blood-brain barrier compromise. Despite similar initial presentations, their outcomes diverged dramatically. Patient 1 was AQP4-IgG negative, responded well to immunotherapy with intravenous immunoglobulin and corticosteroids followed by mycophenolate mofetil maintenance, and remained relapse-free at 12-month follow-up with significant lesion regression on MRI. Patient 2 was AQP4-IgG positive in both serum and CSF, and despite acute treatment, experienced a fatal relapse 6 months later with longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis while on low-dose prednisone monotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS: Isolated APS may represent an important yet under-recognized manifestation of post-COVID-19 autoimmune neuroinflammation. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in CSF supports a role for direct viral neuroinvasion as a localized inflammatory stimulus. AQP4-IgG serostatus serves as a critical prognostic determinant: seronegativity is associated with a benign, monophasic course, whereas seropositivity mandates prompt initiation of potent immunosuppressive therapy to prevent devastating relapses. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for NMOSD in patients with unexplained persistent vomiting following COVID-19, and perform urgent neuroimaging and antibody testing for early risk stratification.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19/complications/cerebrospinal fluid
*SARS-CoV-2
*Area Postrema/pathology/virology
Middle Aged
Betacoronavirus
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
*Neuromyelitis Optica/cerebrospinal fluid
Immunoglobulin G/cerebrospinal fluid
Aquaporin 4/immunology
Autoantibodies/cerebrospinal fluid
Adult

@article {pmid41949759,
year = {2026},
author = {Kleinert, S},
title = {[Cardiovascular risk in inflammatory rheumatic diseases : Evidence-based strategies for risk reduction in rheumatologic practice].},
journal = {Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie},
volume = {85},
number = {4},
pages = {307-316},
pmid = {41949759},
issn = {1435-1250},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control/diagnosis/etiology ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; *Antirheumatic Agents/therapeutic use ; Risk Reduction Behavior ; *Rheumatic Diseases/drug therapy/complications ; Heart Disease Risk Factors ; *Rheumatology/standards ; Risk Factors ; Risk Assessment ; },
abstract = {Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) have a persistently increased cardiovascular (CV) risk and higher mortality, independently of traditional CV risk factors. Effective control of inflammation reduces CV events, whereas glucocorticoids increase the risk in a dose- and duration-dependent manner, even at ≤ 5 mg prednisolone/day. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs especially tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors, are largely protective through the reduction of systemic inflammation. For patients receiving Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors or long-term glucocorticoid therapy, a structured CV risk assessment and guideline-based management of modifiable risk factors (including lipid optimization/statin therapy) are essential. Primary prevention should be based on the cardiovascular prevention guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Vaccinations (influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcus, respiratory syncytial virus, zoster) represent an effective pillar of CV prevention in populations at cardiovascular risk; however, evidence in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases is still lacking. The main challenge for CV prevention remains implementation: digital clinical reminders/decision support systems and multicomponent strategies can improve the implementation of recommendations.},
}

Humans
*Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control/diagnosis/etiology
Evidence-Based Medicine
*Antirheumatic Agents/therapeutic use
Risk Reduction Behavior
*Rheumatic Diseases/drug therapy/complications
Heart Disease Risk Factors
*Rheumatology/standards
Risk Factors
Risk Assessment

@article {pmid41954969,
year = {2026},
author = {Gentilini, P and Lindsay, JC and Konishi, N and Fukushima, M and Polykretis, P},
title = {Exploring the potential link between mRNA COVID-19 vaccinations and cancer: A case report with a review of haematopoietic malignancies with insights into pathogenic mechanisms.},
journal = {Oncotarget},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {34-49},
pmid = {41954969},
issn = {1949-2553},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/etiology/chemically induced ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Copyright: © 2026 Gentilini et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY 4.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. This article investigates the potential association between modified mRNA (modRNA) COVID-19 vaccinations and the development of haematopoietic cancers. We present a case involving a healthy, young, athletic woman who developed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) following her second dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine (Comirnaty®). This case is part of an expanding body of literature documenting similar occurrences after modRNA vaccinations, which we critically examine. Emerging evidence suggests that the biodistribution and persistence of modRNA, facilitated by lipid nanoparticles, can affect various tissues and organs, including the bone marrow and other blood-forming organs. Notably, modRNA vaccines exhibit a particular affinity for the bone marrow, potentially influencing the immune system at multiple levels and triggering both autoimmune disorders and neoplastic processes. In this article, we assess the risk of developing haematopoietic cancers post-modRNA vaccination based on current scientific literature and explore the reported potential genetic and molecular mechanisms involved in disease pathogenesis. By integrating clinical observations and current research, we aim to provide valuable insights into the potential carcinogenic outcomes associated with modRNA vaccination.},
}

Humans
Female
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*Precursor Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia-Lymphoma/etiology/chemically induced
*COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccination/adverse effects

@article {pmid41961609,
year = {2026},
author = {Garcia-Zamora, S and Pulido, L and Sosa Liprandi, MI and Nacinovich, F and Balsano, FJ and Herrera Paz, JJ and Procopio, G and Cursack, G and Picco, J and Cerezo, G and Cicco, L and Stecher, D and Morós, C and Garcia Brasca, D and Cocco, N and Dana, L and Pacheco Otero, M and Spennato, MC and Zapata, G and Sosa Liprandi, Á},
title = {Consensus document on the role of adult vaccination in the prevention of cardiovascular events. Joint Statement by the Argentine Federation of Cardiology (FAC), Argentine Society of Cardiology (SAC), and the Argentine Council of Cardiology Residents (CONAREC).},
journal = {Medicina},
volume = {86},
number = {2},
pages = {447-476},
pmid = {41961609},
issn = {1669-9106},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control ; Argentina ; *Vaccination/standards ; Adult ; Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Cardiology ; Societies, Medical ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death among adults, both in Argentina and worldwide. Numerous studies have established a consistent association between infections -particularly respiratory infections- and an increased risk of cardiovascular events, stroke, arrhythmias, and both cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include systemic inflammation, immune activation, endothelial dysfunction, prothrombotic states, sympathetic stimulation, and elevated myocardial oxygen demand. In respiratory infections, these effects are further exacerbated by hypoxemia and impaired gas exchange. Such alterations can trigger de novo cardiovascular events or exacerbate preexisting conditions, such as ischemic heart disease or heart failure. In this context, robust evidence supports the safety of vaccines against Influenza, Pneumococcus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, COVID-19, and Herpes Zoster in adults, including those with established cardiovascular disease or risk factors. Moreover, these vaccines have demonstrated efficacy in reducing cardiovascular events by mitigating infection-related complications. Notably, influenza vaccination has proven safe even during the acute phase of myocardial infarction, when administered during hospitalization. Despite this strong evidence base, vaccination rates remain suboptimal among individuals with cardiovascular disease, both in Argentina and across Latin America. This consensus document reviews the current evidence linking infections and cardiovascular events, and highlights vaccines as a safe and cost-effective strategy for primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. It also provides concrete recommendations to improve vaccine coverage and reduce residual cardiovascular risk in the region.},
}

Humans
*Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control
Argentina
*Vaccination/standards
Adult
Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
Cardiology
Societies, Medical
COVID-19/prevention & control
Influenza, Human/prevention & control

@article {pmid41961611,
year = {2026},
author = {Estenssoro, E and Steinberg, E and Plotnikow, GA},
title = {[Acute respiratory distress syndrome: a clinical and conceptual journey towards a global, valid, and fair definition].},
journal = {Medicina},
volume = {86},
number = {2},
pages = {495-507},
pmid = {41961611},
issn = {1669-9106},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/diagnosis/classification/physiopathology ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) is an acute, severe form of respiratory failure characterized by profound hypoxemia, reduced thoracopulmonary compliance, alveolar collapse leading to intrapulmonary shunt, and increased deadspace ventilation. It can originate from pulmonary or extrapulmonary causes, leading to heterogeneous pathophysiology. Clinical variability has driven the pursuit of more precise diagnostic definitions to standardize management and facilitate research. Since its first description in 1967, multiple definitions and classifications of ARDS were proposed, including the Murray Score, the American-European Consensus Conference (AECC), and the Berlin Definition. More recently, the Kigali Definition from Rwanda and the challenges posed by COVID-19 pandemic prompted further re-evaluation of the syndrome. This led to the publication of the New Global ARDS Definition in 2023, which introduced new diagnostic categories and broader diagnostic tools. The ongoing need for refinement, combined with the pathophysiological heterogeneity, motivated an exploration by expert clinician and researchers about the value of defining and subphenotyping ARDS for research, education, and clinical care. To ensure representativeness and validity, a Delphi process was conducted by a panel that included members across all world regions, representing high-intermediate and low-resource settings. This review will explore the evolution of ARDS definitions over time, and the advantages and limitations each has presented in clinical and research contexts.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/diagnosis/classification/physiopathology
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41966207,
year = {2025},
author = {Hudon, PA and Haren, MT and Gartner, JB and Bergeron, F and Côté, A},
title = {Public Healthcare Procurement Strategies in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {International journal of health policy and management},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {8556},
pmid = {41966207},
issn = {2322-5939},
mesh = {*COVID-19 ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Personal Protective Equipment/supply & distribution ; *Equipment and Supplies/supply & distribution ; *Public Health ; Public Health Infrastructure ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented public healthcare procurement challenges. The objective of this review was to identify and characterise the scope of the literature on public procurement strategies for healthcare supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019-2023) in relation to the public procurement contexts, systems, and processes and methods (the public procurement ecosystem) worldwide.

METHODS: We performed a scoping review of governmental strategies for the procurement of medical equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE), or medications related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Extracted data were mapped to the fields of the public procurement ecosystem. We used inductive thematic analysis to derive within-field themes, and subsequently, cross-cutting themes through which we structured a narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: 1909 unique studies were identified through a systematic search, of which 89 met the inclusion criteria. One hundred and ten themes were derived from the extracted data within the 21 fields of the public procurement ecosystem, and from these, 10 cross-cutting themes were identified which served to structure the narrative synthesis. It was clear in this literature that the scale and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic required governments to act well outside of the public procurement processes and methods themselves, to procure and distribute the required supplies. Notwithstanding the significant attention to contextual and system-level responses, there were significant responses at the procurement process and methods level, including rapid and temporary expedited procurement processes and longer-term strategic procurement responses.

CONCLUSION: This scoping review of public procurement strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated a focus of the literature not only on the public procurement processes and methods themselves, but also on governmental actions to adapt both structures of public procurement systems and conditions within broader environmental contexts to facilitate procurement goals.},
}

*COVID-19
Humans
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Personal Protective Equipment/supply & distribution
*Equipment and Supplies/supply & distribution
*Public Health
Public Health Infrastructure

@article {pmid41969107,
year = {2026},
author = {Jariah, ROA and Hakim, MS},
title = {Antiviral properties of phages: potential mechanisms of actions.},
journal = {The new microbiologica},
volume = {49},
number = {1},
pages = {1-10},
pmid = {41969107},
issn = {1121-7138},
mesh = {Humans ; *Bacteriophages/physiology ; SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; Animals ; COVID-19/virology/therapy ; Antiviral Agents ; },
abstract = {Bacteriophages (phages) have long been known to treat bacterial infections, although some early studies showed that phages also have potential antiviral mechanisms. This review provides a descriptive summary of ideas on how phages might have a significant role in inhibiting viral infections. Phages are known to directly modulate the host immunity that subsequently influences the immune responses against viral infections. It is also reasonable to explore the phage potential to directly inhibit viral infection in humans, including herpes simplex virus (HSV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Lastly, phages have been utilized as a molecular tool in phage display. Phages have already been engineered to produce monoclonal antibodies against the spike (S) protein of SARS-CoV-2. Despite all these possibilities, further extensive and deeper explorations are highly required.},
}

Humans
*Bacteriophages/physiology
SARS-CoV-2/physiology
Animals
COVID-19/virology/therapy
Antiviral Agents

@article {pmid41973527,
year = {2026},
author = {Hudnall, SR and Jacobs, BC and Fields, KB},
title = {Functional Testing for Return to Activity with COVID-19.},
journal = {Current sports medicine reports},
volume = {25},
number = {4},
pages = {118-122},
doi = {10.1249/JSR.0000000000001330},
pmid = {41973527},
issn = {1537-8918},
mesh = {Humans ; *Return to Sport ; *COVID-19 ; *Exercise Test/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/rehabilitation/physiopathology ; Pandemics ; *Pneumonia, Viral/rehabilitation/physiopathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Betacoronavirus ; Recovery of Function ; },
abstract = {Return-to-play decisions following COVID-19 infection remain challenging due to persistent variability in cardiopulmonary and functional recovery. This review examines four validated functional tests: the Timed Up and Go, 6-Minute Walk Test, Kasch Pulse Step Recovery Test, and 1-Minute Sit-to-Stand Test and their potential roles in assessing readiness for physical activity and sport after COVID-19 infection. These office-based assessments are simple, reproducible, and sensitive to impairments in cardiovascular, pulmonary, and musculoskeletal function. Evidence suggests that post-COVID-19 individuals may demonstrate significant deficits in performance across functional tests, supporting their integration into return-to-play evaluations. The 6-Minute Walk Test is recommended as the primary measure of functional capacity, with the 1-Minute Sit-to-Stand Test as a validated alternative. Incorporating functional testing into return-to-play protocols can enhance clinical decision-making, guide rehabilitation, and promote safe resumption of physical activity.},
}

Humans
*Return to Sport
*COVID-19
*Exercise Test/methods
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/rehabilitation/physiopathology
Pandemics
*Pneumonia, Viral/rehabilitation/physiopathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Betacoronavirus
Recovery of Function

@article {pmid42324038,
year = {2026},
author = {Ikrar, T and Muchsin, W and Sophian, A},
title = {Beyond Strain-Specific Immunity: Conserved Antigenic Targets, Emerging Platforms, and Translational Challenges in Universal Influenza and Pan-Coronavirus Vaccine Development.},
journal = {Journal of virological methods},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115432},
doi = {10.1016/j.jviromet.2026.115432},
pmid = {42324038},
issn = {1879-0984},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global burden of respiratory viral disease is shaped by two enduring threats: influenza, responsible for 290,000-650,000 annual deaths, and coronaviruses, exemplified by the catastrophic SARS-CoV-2 pandemic that caused over 7 million confirmed fatalities and profound socioeconomic disruption. Current strain-specific vaccines remain inherently reactive, incapable of anticipating antigenic drift, reassortment, or zoonotic emergence. A paradigm shift toward universal vaccines-designed to target evolutionarily conserved viral epitopes and confer durable, broad-spectrum protection across strains, subtypes, and viral genera-represents the most strategically consequential frontier in contemporary vaccinology and pandemic preparedness.

OBJECTIVE: This comparative narrative review provides an integrated synthesis of universal influenza vaccine (UIV) and pan-coronavirus vaccine (UCV) development, critically evaluating conserved immunological targets, advanced platform technologies, Phase I-III clinical pipeline status, and key translational barriers. By juxtaposing both developmental trajectories in a single analytical framework, we identify convergent scientific principles and divergent challenges to inform a unified pandemic preparedness strategy-an approach not previously addressed in the literature.

METHODS: A structured narrative review was conducted via systematic literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov covering 2015-June 2026, supplemented by hand-searching reference lists of landmark studies. MeSH and free-text terms encompassed universal influenza vaccines, pan-coronavirus vaccines, mRNA vaccine platforms, hemagglutinin stalk, neuraminidase, M2e, receptor-binding domain (RBD), fusion peptide, S2 subunit, and broadly neutralizing antibodies. Peer-reviewed original research articles, Phase I-III clinical trial reports, and authoritative reviews were included; non-English publications and preclinical-only studies lacking translational immunogenicity data were excluded.

RESULTS: Conserved viral epitopes-principally the hemagglutinin (HA) stalk domain, neuraminidase (NA) ectodomain, and M2e protein for influenza, and the receptor-binding domain (RBD) Class 4 epitope, fusion peptide, and S2 subunit for coronaviruses-have been validated as targets for broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs). Multiple advanced platforms, including lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated mRNA, adenoviral vectors, computationally designed self-assembling nanoparticles (Mosaic-8 RBD-I53-50, SpFN), and structure-guided protein antigens, are progressing through early-phase clinical trials with promising cross-reactive immunogenicity profiles. Comparative analysis reveals that UIV development benefits from well-characterised bnAb epitopes and established animal challenge models, while UCV development is accelerated by unprecedented mRNA manufacturing infrastructure and genomic surveillance networks built during the COVID-19 response. Shared translational obstacles include antigenic imprinting, the absence of validated correlates of protection for cross-strain immunity, and inequitable manufacturing scalability.

CONCLUSIONS: Cross-strain protective vaccines against influenza and coronaviruses are scientifically achievable, supported by converging immunological principles and advancing clinical evidence across both fields. Accelerating translation to population-level protection requires coordinated investment in epitope-focused antigen engineering, correlate-of-protection validation, adaptive regulatory frameworks, and equitable global manufacturing capacity. Crucially, the scientific and policy lessons of COVID-19-both the remarkable speed enabled by prior platform investments and the inequities exposed in global vaccine distribution-must be integrated into universal respiratory virus vaccine programmes now, before the next pandemic forces another reactive response.},
}

@article {pmid41746075,
year = {2026},
author = {Sarabia, LE and Williams, E and Date, K and Méroc, E and Eeuwijk, J and Gessner, B and Bresee, J and Fry, A and Begier, E},
title = {Vaccination Strategies Against Respiratory Pathogens in the Adult Population: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746075},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {NA//Pfizer (United Kingdom)/ ; },
abstract = {Respiratory infections cause substantial morbidity and mortality in older adults and other at-risk adult populations. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, adult vaccination coverage remains suboptimal. This narrative review examines strategies designed to improve vaccine uptake among non-pregnant adults aged ≥18 years and inform future adult vaccination strategies. We conducted a targeted literature search using keywords for vaccination, respiratory diseases, strategy/program/implementation, and adults in PubMed database and CDC, WHO, and ECDC websites, between 2014 and 2024. A snowball search of literature reviews and key references was also performed to identify additional relevant studies. Eligible publications focused on vaccination strategies against influenza, COVID-19, and pneumococcal disease targeting non-pregnant adults (≥18 years). We categorized the strategies by intervention type to describe their influence on vaccination campaigns and vaccine uptake/coverage. We included 45 publications, encompassing strategies focused on individual decision-making, healthcare system functions, and national policy. Educational and awareness interventions (such as healthcare worker/provider recommendations during consultation, phone calls, letters, text messages, and social media outreach) reportedly raised vaccination rates. Access-related factors, including convenient vaccination sites and free or subsidized vaccines, were reported to be important factors in improving coverage in underserved communities. Within healthcare settings, strategies such as continuous vaccine provider training and workflow/process optimization were shown to enhance vaccination delivery. At the local or national policy levels, legislation governing program targets shaped immunization efforts and facilitated collaborations and partnerships to expand campaign reach. The findings may inform policymakers and public health/immunization practitioners in designing context-specific immunization initiatives that effectively reach adult populations.},
}

@article {pmid41746079,
year = {2026},
author = {Oh, T},
title = {Advances in Spatial Transcriptomics for Infectious Disease Research: Insight for Vaccine Development.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746079},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {2025//Dankook University/ ; },
abstract = {Spatial transcriptomics (ST) enables genome-wide gene expression profiling while preserving tissue architecture, bridging the gap between bulk, single-cell, and histological analyses. Originating in 2016 and rapidly evolving since, ST has transformed infectious disease research by mapping host-pathogen interactions directly within intact tissues. Current platforms fall into two categories: sequencing-based methods (Visium, GeoMx, Stereo-seq) offering whole-transcriptome coverage at modest resolution and imaging-based platforms (Xenium, CosMx, MERFISH) providing single-cell or subcellular detail with targeted gene panels. These technologies reveal spatially organized immune responses, local tissue remodeling, and pathogen niches across viruses, bacteria, and parasites. In viral infection, ST uncovered heterogeneity in COVID-19 lung microenvironments, spatial immune activation in lymphoid tissues, and variant-specific inflammatory patterns. In bacterial disease, ST delineated granuloma architecture in tuberculosis and mapped vaccine-induced lung responses in Shigella studies. Parasitic infection studies identified localized inflammatory hotspots and microenvironmental control of T-cell differentiation in malaria. Despite powerful insights, ST faces constraints including RNA quality limitations, tradeoffs between resolution and transcript breadth, high cost, and analytical complexity. Nonetheless, ST increasingly informs vaccine design by identifying tissue-specific immune programs and protective microenvironments and is poised to become a standard tool for infectious disease biology.},
}

@article {pmid41746093,
year = {2026},
author = {Karczmarzyk, K and Kęsik-Brodacka, M},
title = {Challenges and Prospects in the Development of a Universal SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41746093},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {2019/35/B/NZ6/04002//National Science Centre/ ; },
abstract = {The development of a universal SARS-CoV-2 vaccine holds great promise for achieving broad and durable protection against existing and future coronavirus variants. The identification, selection, and rational redesign of conserved viral epitopes constitute the direct immunological foundation of universal SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development. The breadth and durability of protection are therefore primarily determined at the level of antigen and epitope design, whereas adjuvants, delivery platforms, and routes of administration serve as enabling and amplifying components rather than primary drivers of universality. Accordingly, this review discusses key determinants of universal vaccine design, including antigen selection, adjuvant utilization, and route of administration. The spike protein, particularly its receptor-binding domain, is a major antigenic target, but its high mutation rate challenges long-term vaccine efficacy. Strategies focusing on conserved epitopes in antigen designs show potential to elicit cross-neutralizing immune responses. Nanoparticle-based vaccines capable of presenting multiple homologous or heterologous antigens have demonstrated enhanced immunogenicity, broad protection in preclinical models and safety in clinical trials. The addition of next-generation adjuvants further amplifies humoral and cellular immunity beyond the capabilities of traditional aluminum-based adjuvants. Moreover, mucosal vaccine delivery may provide superior local protection at viral entry sites and limit transmission. Importantly, integrating these technological advances with epitope-centered antigen design and immunological data from vaccinated individuals will accelerate the identification of conserved epitopes and inform future vaccine design. A multidisciplinary approach combining optimized antigen engineering, novel adjuvant systems, and innovative delivery strategies is essential for the realization of a broadly protective universal SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.},
}

@article {pmid41747602,
year = {2026},
author = {Cui, Y and Song, P and Zhao, X and Tong, Z and Gao, GF},
title = {Virus-induced onychomadesis: Exploring the role of viral infection in nail shedding.},
journal = {Journal of clinical virology : the official publication of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology},
volume = {183},
number = {},
pages = {105928},
doi = {10.1016/j.jcv.2026.105928},
pmid = {41747602},
issn = {1873-5967},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nail Diseases/virology/etiology ; *Nails/virology/pathology ; *Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease/virology/complications ; *Virus Diseases/complications/virology ; },
abstract = {Onychomadesis, characterized by proximal detachment of the nail plate due to temporary arrest of matrix proliferation, has been increasingly recognized as a complication following viral infections. Enterovirus-associated hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is the most frequently reported cause. Recent studies demonstrate that some enteroviruses, including Coxsackievirus A10, utilize the host receptor KREMEN1 (KRM1) to impair Wnt/β-catenin signaling and suppress nail stem cell differentiation, thereby providing a molecular basis for infection-induced nail shedding. Additionally, cases of onychomadesis linked to other viral infections, including KRM1-independent enteroviruses, influenza virus, SARS-CoV-2, varicella-zoster virus, and co-infections involving HIV and mpox, have also been documented. Despite growing recognition of the virus-induced onychomadesis, in most cases the exact pathogeneses are yet elusive, thereof lack of approved treatments. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of onychomadesis and other sequelae can enhance diagnostics and therapies, guiding future drug development for virus-induced nail disorders and related complications. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed up to Dec 2025, including the search terms: onychomadesis, Beau's line, infection or virus, and follow-up. This review aims to explore the molecular pathophysiology of virus-induced onychomadesis and to examine the underlying molecular mechanisms, including the roles of viral receptors and signaling pathways in nail stem cell differentiation. It scrutinizes the currently available literatures of link between viral infections, particularly HFMD, and onychomadesis, focusing on the molecular mechanisms involved, and explores potential therapeutic insights.},
}

Humans
*Nail Diseases/virology/etiology
*Nails/virology/pathology
*Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease/virology/complications
*Virus Diseases/complications/virology

@article {pmid41748273,
year = {2026},
author = {Evaborhene, NA and Oga, J and Adebisi, YA and Udokanma, EE and Runyowa, N and Kafuko, Z and Bandara, S and Onyeaghala, C},
title = {The WHO pandemic agreement-securing Africa's leadership in a fragmenting global order.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41748273},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Leadership ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *International Cooperation ; Africa/epidemiology ; *World Health Organization ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Global Health ; Pandemic Preparedness ; *Health Policy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {In May 2025, the World Health Assembly adopted the historic WHO Pandemic Agreement, aimed at strengthening global pandemic preparedness and equity. This legally binding treaty emerged from years of negotiation shaped by the COVID-19 pandemic's stark inequities-particularly those experienced by African nations. While the treaty introduces important innovations, notably the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing system, significant challenges remain. Ambiguities in equity commitments, geopolitical fragmentation and rising nationalism threaten effective implementation. For Africa, realising the treaty's promise requires robust legal frameworks, enhanced manufacturing and regulatory capacities and sustainable financing mechanisms that reduce donor dependency. This analysis critically examines the treaty's provisions and political economy, emphasising the need for enforceable obligations, continental leadership and multi-sectoral accountability. We propose the establishment of a Pandemic Peer Review Mechanism to embed political accountability at national and regional levels. Only through coordinated African leadership, institutional investment and global solidarity can the Pandemic Agreement deliver equitable health outcomes in a fracturing global order.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Leadership
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*International Cooperation
Africa/epidemiology
*World Health Organization
SARS-CoV-2
*Global Health
Pandemic Preparedness
*Health Policy
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology

@article {pmid41748726,
year = {2026},
author = {Smith, EA and Fleming, DF and Lackritz, EM and Ulrich, AK},
title = {Inequities and global declines in SARS-CoV-2 genomic data availability hinder response to emerging variants.},
journal = {Npj viruses},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41748726},
issn = {2948-1767},
abstract = {Genomic epidemiology has transformed the way public health scientists detect, monitor, and respond to infectious disease threats such as SARS-CoV-2 on a global scale. Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, vast inequities in whole-genome sequence data availability between high- and low-income countries were highlighted, but the persistence of these disparities five years into a global pandemic has not been quantified. Also, while it is generally known that genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 largely declined following the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, this has not been formally measured, and how it impacts our ability to detect and characterize new variants, remains unknown. Therefore, we performed an analysis of SARS-CoV-2 sequence submissions on the Global Initiative for Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) platform from 2020 to 2025, by country and World Bank income classification. There were large differences in SARS-CoV-2 sequence submissions by income classification, indicating a disparity in our ability to monitor SARS-CoV-2 evolution worldwide, which has important consequences for preventative measures such as vaccine strain selection. Nevertheless, there are important barriers to sustainable sharing of SARS-CoV-2 sequence data, which we discuss in detail, along with their relevance to other pathogens of public health importance. Also, the decrease in sequence submissions in high income countries from 577 million at the peak of the pandemic, to under 50 million in 2024, represents a loss of capacity to monitor SARS-CoV-2 evolution in countries with known capabilities. Ultimately, data drive the impact of genomic epidemiology, and long-term investments in genomic surveillance programs, as well as incentives for timely data sharing, are urgently needed to detect and characterize new viral variants worldwide.},
}

@article {pmid41749676,
year = {2026},
author = {Farì, G and Quarta, F and Bressi, F and La Russa, R and Paolucci, T and Bernetti, A},
title = {Effects of Exercise-Based Telerehabilitation for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and a Study Protocol.},
journal = {Bioengineering (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41749676},
issn = {2306-5354},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Knee osteoarthritis causes considerable pain and disability. Telerehabilitation has emerged as a promising treatment option, especially after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic, but it still faces challenges regarding solid scientific evidence about its multiple benefits. This systematic review aimed to analyze the reported beneficial effects of telerehabilitation based on therapeutic exercise for the management of knee osteoarthritis. Methodsː PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases were used to identify eligible studies. This review followed the PRISMA guidelines and was registered at PROSPERO (n° CRD42024579836). The selected studies underwent a qualitative assessment using the Modified Jadad Score.

RESULTS: Ten studies, including a total of 1354 participants, were included. From the selected studies, a wide variety of outcome measures emerged to evaluate the efficacy of telerehabilitation in the relief of pain and its clinical consequences. Seven studies specifically assessed pain, with four showing significant improvements in pain reduction in the intervention group compared with the control group. Telerehabilitation was found to be more effective or non-inferior to traditional rehabilitation in relieving pain, as reported across various pain scales. Limitations include the heterogeneity of interventions, the exclusion of non-recent studies, and the exclusive focus on therapeutic exercise. Conclusionsː The results of this systematic review suggest that telerehabilitation provides pain relief, improves physical function, and enhances quality of life, while preliminary evidence indicates potential cost-related advantages. However, some studies did not find TR to be superior to control interventions, highlighting mixed evidence. Additional high-quality studies are required to better support this promising rehabilitation approach.},
}

@article {pmid41750353,
year = {2026},
author = {Makki, R and Kassem-Moussa, S and Al Nemer, F and El Majzoub, R and Fayyad-Kazan, H and Rachidi, W and Badran, B and Fayyad-Kazan, M},
title = {MicroRNAs in Long COVID: Key Regulators, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Targets of Post-SARS-CoV-2 Sequelae.},
journal = {Biomolecules},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750353},
issn = {2218-273X},
mesh = {Humans ; *MicroRNAs/genetics/metabolism/blood ; *COVID-19/genetics ; Biomarkers/blood/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {COVID, or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is clinically defined by persistent symptoms that endure beyond acute infection and affect multiple organ systems, including the immune, cardiopulmonary, neurological, and metabolic axes. The underlying mechanisms remain poorly resolved, limiting the development of targeted diagnostics and therapeutics. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), as key post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression, control inflammatory networks, antiviral responses, mitochondrial bioenergetics, and fibrotic pathways, all of which are implicated in long COVID pathogenesis. Recent studies show durable changes in circulating miRNA signatures months after recovery from the acute phase, suggesting a role in maintaining chronic immune activation and metabolic dysfunction. Importantly, circulating miRNAs are stable, quantifiable in biofluids, and reflect systems-level dysregulation, positioning them as promising biomarker candidates for patient stratification, symptom clustering, and disease monitoring. Moreover, miRNA-directed interventions, such as mimics and antagomiRs, represent an emerging precision-medicine strategy to correct sustained molecular disturbances. This review summarizes current evidence linking miRNAs to long COVID, highlights their biomarker potential, and discusses therapeutic avenues that may help advance mechanism-based interventions for this globally emerging chronic condition.},
}

Humans
*MicroRNAs/genetics/metabolism/blood
*COVID-19/genetics
Biomarkers/blood/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41750595,
year = {2026},
author = {Dawi, J and Affa, S and Misakyan, Y and Gonzalez, E and Affa, S and Venketaraman, V},
title = {Glutathione-Mediated Redox Regulation of Immune Dysfunction in COVID-19 and Tuberculosis.},
journal = {Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41750595},
issn = {2076-3921},
support = {R15 HL143545/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Tuberculosis and coronavirus disease 2019, also known as COVID-19, remain major global health challenges that disproportionately affect individuals with metabolic disorders, chronic inflammation, and limited access to healthcare. Although these diseases are caused by different pathogens, they share important host-related determinants of severity, including immune dysfunction, oxidative stress, endothelial injury, and maladaptive inflammatory responses. Glutathione, the primary intracellular antioxidant and a key regulator of redox balance, has emerged as an important host factor connecting these processes across infectious diseases. This review integrates experimental, translational, and clinical evidence supporting the role of glutathione in regulating immune function, oxidative stress, and tissue damage in tuberculosis and COVID-19. In tuberculosis, glutathione deficiency compromises macrophage antimicrobial activity, disrupts granuloma structure, and alters T helper cell responses, leading to impaired immune containment and disease progression. In COVID-19, reduced glutathione levels are associated with redox imbalance, excessive cytokine signaling, endothelial dysfunction, and thromboinflammatory complications, especially in high-risk populations. In both diseases, glutathione depletion reduces host resilience and increases vulnerability to severe outcomes through shared immune and vascular pathways. By unifying disease-specific findings within a host-directed framework, this review highlights glutathione and redox signaling as common vulnerability pathways that help explain overlapping risk profiles for severe tuberculosis and COVID-19. It also places glutathione biology within the broader context of host-directed immunotherapy, emphasizing its potential role in prevention-focused and resilience-based strategies that complement pathogen-targeted treatments. Although current evidence does not support simple claims of disease prevention, it provides strong mechanistic justification for further investigation of glutathione as a modifiable host factor in high-risk populations.},
}

@article {pmid41751338,
year = {2026},
author = {Notarte, KI and Catahay, JA and Velasco, JV and Ver, AT and Lee, J and Rizk, JG and Lippi, G and Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C},
title = {Complement System Dysregulation in the Immunopathogenesis of Long COVID: Systematic Evidence Synthesis.},
journal = {Biomedicines},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41751338},
issn = {2227-9059},
abstract = {Background/Objective: Long COVID is an important cause of disability following SARS-CoV-2 infection; yet, its underlying mechanisms are not completely understood. One proposed mechanism is the long-lasting dysregulation of the immune complement system. This systematic review is the first to summarize the current evidence and evaluate the potential role of long-lasting complement activation in people with long COVID. Methods: A systematic electronic search on PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, and Embase was conducted up to 15 October 2025, to identify studies investigating complement activation in people with the post-COVID-19 condition. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to evaluate the risk of bias and methodological quality. Results: Among the 247 studies initially identified, eleven met the inclusion criteria, comprising 1435 individuals (age: 48.5 years, 70% females) with long COVID and 1124 controls (age: 43.6 years, 60% females). All studies were of a high quality, with scores ranging from 7 to 8 stars (mean: 7.6 ± 0.5). The activation of the classical complement pathway was investigated in nine studies, whereas the lectin, alternative, and terminal complement pathways were each assessed in three studies. Multiple studies investigated several complement pathways. The results were heterogeneous since several markers of complement activation spanning the classical (C2, C4a, C4b, and C1s-C1INH), alternative (Ba, iC3b, and Factor D), and terminal (C5bC6, C5a, C9, and TCC) pathways were elevated, whereas other markers were not significantly different (C3, C4, and C4d) between patients with/without long COVID. In addition, markers spanning the lectin complement pathway (MBL, and MASP1-C1INH) were not significantly different between individuals with and without long COVID. Conclusions: The current evidence suggests potential long-lasting complement system dysregulation in individuals with long COVID, although the clinical significance remains controversial, due to heterogenous findings. Specific post-COVID symptom clusters, such as fatigue, dyspnea, or brain fog, have been linked to a distinct pattern of complement dysregulation. Substantial methodological heterogeneity, including differences in follow-up periods, complement markers, assessment methods, and control groups, along with the small number of available studies, underscores the need for further research to clarify the mechanisms linking complement dysregulation to long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid41751767,
year = {2026},
author = {Zieniuk, B and Wierzchowska, K and Jasińska, K and Kobus, J and Piotrowicz, A and Uğur, Ş and Fabiszewska, A},
title = {Yeast as a Model for Human Disease.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41751767},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/genetics/pathology ; Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics/metabolism ; *Models, Biological ; Mitochondrial Diseases/metabolism/genetics ; Animals ; *Yeasts/metabolism/genetics ; Metabolic Diseases/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Yeasts, especially the conventional species Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe, as well as some unconventional species such as Pichia pastoris, Kluyveromyces marxianus and Yarrowia lipolytica, have become fundamental model organisms for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases. Their eukaryotic cell organization, genetic simplicity, and strong conservation of essential biological pathways make them indispensable in biomedical research. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of different yeast species in modeling human disorders, highlighting historical milestones and groundbreaking discoveries that have shaped current knowledge. The article discusses the applications of yeast models in studying neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Huntington's, as well as metabolic diseases, infectious diseases and mitochondrial disorders, and their growing importance in cancer research and drug discovery. Special attention is given to humanized yeast models, which enable the expression and functional analysis of human genes and the heterologous synthesis of human proteins within yeast cells. Finally, the paper addresses the limitations and challenges of yeast as a model system while outlining future directions and emphasizing the organism's continued relevance in personalized medicine and functional genomics.},
}

Humans
Neurodegenerative Diseases/metabolism/genetics/pathology
Saccharomyces cerevisiae/genetics/metabolism
*Models, Biological
Mitochondrial Diseases/metabolism/genetics
Animals
*Yeasts/metabolism/genetics
Metabolic Diseases/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid41752261,
year = {2026},
author = {Van Assche, J},
title = {The Social-Psychological Consequences of COVID-19: An Integrative Review and Research Agenda.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41752261},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {*COVID-19/psychology ; Humans ; *Mental Health ; Resilience, Psychological ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed profound social-psychological vulnerabilities and strengths across societies worldwide. Beyond its immediate health implications, the pandemic has triggered a wave of mental health issues, disrupted social cohesion, and challenged community resilience. This paper synthesizes the current literature, critically discusses five recent studies as part of the Special Issue "Mental Health Consequences of COVID-19: The Role of Social Determinants", and articulates an agenda for future research within a social-psychological framework. Moving beyond mere negative effects such as anxiety, this review highlights the role of resilience, prosocial behavior, (digital) mental health interventions, and community social capital. Correspondingly, I advocate for interdisciplinary efforts to enhance awareness, preparedness, and adaptive capacity during health crises, emphasizing the need for a clearer focus on vulnerable social groups. In sum, recognizing the evolving global landscape, this work underscores the urgency of integrating psychological insights into public health policies to build resilient societies capable of confronting future pandemics and health emergencies.},
}

*COVID-19/psychology
Humans
*Mental Health
Resilience, Psychological
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid41752703,
year = {2026},
author = {Hostiuc, S and Gherghiceanu, F},
title = {Burnout, PTSD, and Medical Error: The Medico-Legal Implications of the Mental Health Crisis Among Frontline Healthcare Professionals During COVID-19.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {62},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41752703},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; *Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; *Medical Errors/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Frontline Workers/psychology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; Prevalence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Mental Health ; Pandemics ; Emotional Exhaustion ; },
abstract = {Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented mental health crisis among workers in the healthcare field, with average burnout rates increasing from about 32% before the pandemic to 46-52% during peak times and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affecting 24-34% of frontline staff. The primary objective of this article is to synthesize evidence on the prevalence of burnout and PTSD among healthcare workers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The secondary objectives are: (a) to examine the mechanisms and empirical evidence linking clinician mental health to medical errors and patient safety outcomes and (b) to analyze the medico-legal implications of this relationship, including malpractice liability, institutional responsibility, and opportunities for policy reform. Materials and Methods: We conducted a narrative review searching PubMed (November 2025-January 2026) using predefined keyword combinations. Inclusion criteria comprised original research, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses examining mental health outcomes or patient safety among clinical staff. Data were synthesized narratively across five thematic domains. Results: Burnout prevalence increased from approximately 32% pre-pandemic to 46-52% during peak periods, with emotional exhaustion reaching 67.5% in some settings. PTSD rates rose to 24-34% among frontline staff, exceeding pre-pandemic levels of 15-20%, with ICU staff particularly affected (27-40%). Substantial overlap exists between conditions (86-98% comorbidity). Physician burnout is associated with 2.72 times higher odds of self-reported errors (95% CI: 2.19-3.37), with each point increase in emotional exhaustion raising the error risk by 5-11%. Mechanisms include cognitive impairment (reduced executive function, g = -0.39; impaired working memory, g = -0.36) and sleep disturbance. Malpractice litigation compounds psychological harm, increasing depression and suicidal ideation. Conclusions: This review, synthesizing data from over 500,000 healthcare workers, demonstrates bidirectional relationships among burnout, PTSD, and medical errors with significant medico-legal ramifications. Addressing this crisis requires systemic interventions including workload management, psychological support, blame-free reporting cultures, and policy reforms balancing accountability with recognition of system-level contributors to error.},
}

Humans
*Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology
*Medical Errors/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Frontline Workers/psychology
*Health Personnel/psychology
Prevalence
SARS-CoV-2
Mental Health
Pandemics
Emotional Exhaustion

@article {pmid41752709,
year = {2026},
author = {Pah, AM and Gavrilescu, DM and Mateescu, DM and Cotet, IG and Craciun, ML and Florescu, E and Crisan, S and Avram, A},
title = {Association of Chronic Hyperglycemia and Glycemic Variability with Mortality in COVID-19: Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {62},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41752709},
issn = {1648-9144},
support = {Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara//Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality/complications/blood ; *Hyperglycemia/mortality/complications/blood ; *Blood Glucose/analysis ; Cohort Studies ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; Chronic Disease ; Glycemic Control ; },
abstract = {Background and Objectives: Dysglycemia is a major determinant of adverse outcomes in COVID-19, yet the separate contributions of poor glycemic control and glycemic variability (GV) remain incompletely defined. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational cohort studies (both prospective and retrospective) to quantify the impact of chronic hyperglycemia and glucose instability on disease severity, intensive care requirements, and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Materials and Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 2020 to October 2024 for observational cohort studies reporting clinically relevant COVID-19 outcomes stratified by glycemic control or GV. Dysglycemia definitions varied across studies (HbA1c-based chronic hyperglycemia, fasting glucose, or admission/in-hospital hyperglycemia). GV was assessed using metrics including mean amplitude of glycemic excursions (MAGE), standard deviation (SD), coefficient of variation (CV), or maximum daily glucose difference. Twelve studies met inclusion criteria and were included in qualitative synthesis; five studies were eligible for quantitative synthesis of clinical outcomes. Random-effects DerSimonian-Laird models were applied due to anticipated clinical heterogeneity. Heterogeneity was evaluated using Cochran's Q, τ[2], and I[2] statistics. Results: Overall, 12 observational studies (9 prospective and 3 retrospective cohorts; n = 1,008,310 patients) were included. In quantitative analyses of five eligible cohorts, poor glycemic control was associated with a significantly increased risk of severe or critical COVID-19 (pooled RR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.45-2.11; I[2] = 29%), ICU admission (RR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.18-2.01), and mechanical ventilation (RR = 1.72, 95% CI: 1.31-2.26). Three studies evaluating GV demonstrated a strong association with adverse outcomes (pooled RR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.71-2.50; I[2] = 0%); this low heterogeneity should be interpreted cautiously given the limited number of studies. GV remained associated with mortality in multivariable models, indicating that glycemic variability is separately associated with mortality as a clinically relevant prognostic risk marker in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Conclusions: Both chronic hyperglycemia and elevated glycemic variability are each associated with increased risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. Glycemic variability appeared to be a consistent, low-heterogeneity prognostic marker of mortality, being separately associated with higher death risk in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, highlighting its potential utility as a dynamic metabolic biomarker. Early identification and targeted management of dysglycemia-especially glucose instability-may improve prognosis in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. PROSPERO: CRD420251250718.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality/complications/blood
*Hyperglycemia/mortality/complications/blood
*Blood Glucose/analysis
Cohort Studies
SARS-CoV-2
Intensive Care Units
Chronic Disease
Glycemic Control

@article {pmid41752904,
year = {2026},
author = {Siliste, RN and Benea, S and Homentcovschi, C and Deaconu, T and Caruntu, C and Savulescu-Fiedler, I},
title = {Myocardial and Vascular Involvement in COVID-19 and Post-Vaccination States: Understanding Injury Pathways and Clinical Implications.},
journal = {Life (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41752904},
issn = {2075-1729},
abstract = {Myocardial and vascular injury secondary to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination has emerged as a clinically relevant phenomenon, with distinct but overlapping mechanisms. Myocardial injury in COVID-19 results from a complex interplay between direct viral effects and immune-mediated inflammation, supported by histopathological studies revealing macrophage-rich infiltrates, microthrombosis, and supporting fibrosis in isolated areas. In contrast, vaccine-associated myocarditis-reported predominantly following mRNA vaccines-has a self-limiting clinical course, with mechanisms likely involving molecular mimicry, aberrant immune activation, or hypersensitivity reactions, although these pathways require further validation. Although mRNA vaccines have been associated with a small increase in myocarditis, particularly in young men, the risk is significantly lower than that associated with COVID-19 infection, and the cardiovascular benefits of vaccination far outweigh these rare adverse events in most populations. After the end of the pandemic, the number of patients with severe forms of COVID-19 has decreased significantly, but we consider that cardiac involvement remains an important issue for the acute and long-term prognosis of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our paper synthesizes the latest epidemiological and mechanistic evidence on the link between COVID-19, vaccination, and myocardial and/or vascular injuries, highlighting the clinical implications and providing practical recommendations for management, as well as future perspectives on risk assessment, targeted immunotherapy, advanced diagnostic tools, and long-term monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid41753016,
year = {2026},
author = {Cadena Barberis, ED and Oh, HR and Vélez Ordóñez, LD and Calvopiña, VS and Rodas, JA and Leon-Rojas, JE},
title = {Relationship Between Substance Use and Suicide Behavior During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review and Random-Effects Proportions Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753016},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {592.A.XVII.25//Universidad de Las Américas/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted social structures, healthcare access, and psychological well-being, potentially intensifying substance use and suicidal behavior. Although both phenomena have been independently studied, their co-occurrence during the pandemic has not been systematically synthesized. To evaluate the prevalence and patterns of suicidal behavior among individuals with substance use during the COVID-19 pandemic through a systematic review and random-effects proportions meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and EBSCO Host was conducted from 11 March 2020 to 15 October 2022 for studies published between March 2020 and October 2022. Eligible studies included observational designs reporting substance use and suicidal behavior in adults during the pandemic. Risk of bias was assessed using National Institutes of Health tools. Proportional meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model with Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation. Heterogeneity was quantified using the I[2] statistic. Results: Twenty studies comprising 70,684 individuals were included. Substance use during the pandemic was reported in 24.6 percent of participants, while 30.7 percent exhibited suicidal behavior. A total of 16.1 percent presented with both substance use and suicidal behavior. The pooled prevalence of any suicidal behavior among individuals with substance use was 33.8 percent (95 percent CI, 22.8 to 45.7), with substantial heterogeneity. Alcohol showed a pooled prevalence of 36.2 percent, cannabis 48.1 percent, and tobacco 11.5 percent. Suicidal ideation was the most frequent outcome, with a pooled prevalence of 36.8 percent among substance users. Most studies reported an increased association between substance use and suicidal behavior compared with pre-pandemic periods. Conclusions: Substance use and suicidal behavior frequently co-occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly suicidal ideation and alcohol use. These findings highlight the need for integrated mental health and substance use interventions during public health crises.},
}

@article {pmid41753114,
year = {2026},
author = {Kloni, M and Heraclides, A and Panteli, T and Klonis, A and Rentzias, P and Karagiannis, C},
title = {Incentive Spirometer in COVID-19: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753114},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: COVID-19 and its sequelae have affected millions worldwide, with many individuals experiencing persistent symptoms such as dyspnea, fatigue and reduced quality of life. Respiratory physiotherapy is commonly used to support patients with pulmonary conditions. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effects of the incentive spirometer on cardiopulmonary, functional and patient-reported outcomes in adults during the acute and post-COVID-19 phases. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Clinical Trials.gov and Google Scholar to identify studies published between January 2020 and April 2025. Owing to substantial heterogeneity in study design, populations, interventions and outcome measures, quantitative synthesis was not feasible and findings were synthesized narratively. Results: Twelve studies involving 573 participants were included. Within-group analyses showed improvements in pulmonary outcomes (including FEV1, FVC, and oxygen saturation), reductions in dyspnea, and improvements in quality of life following incentive spirometer. Improvements in pulmonary function were reported primarily in post-COVID-19 populations, whereas reductions in anxiety and improvements in quality of life were reported mainly in acute COVID-19 settings. Between-group comparisons demonstrated statistically significant differences in favor of the incentive spirometer for selected pulmonary and functional outcomes (including FVC, DLCO, oxygen saturation, six-minute walk test, and 30 s sit-to-stand test), while no significant differences were observed for other outcomes such as peak expiratory flow, respiratory rate, or heart rate variability. Randomized controlled trials were judged to have a moderate risk of bias, non-randomized studies a moderate-to-serious risk, and certainty of evidence ranged from very low to moderate. Conclusions: Incentive spirometer may support respiratory, functional, and psychological recovery in adults during the acute and post-COVID-19 phases. However, effects vary across outcomes and comparator interventions, and the overall certainty of evidence is low to moderate. Further high-quality research is required to confirm effectiveness and guide optimal clinical use.},
}

@article {pmid41753604,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, M and Ren, W and Wu, X and Khan, JM and Nazir, H and Rehman, SU and Ali, F and Li, J},
title = {Insights into Monkeypox Virus: Host Immunity, Viral Immune Evasion, Recent Advances in Vaccines, Therapeutic Development, and Future Perspectives.},
journal = {Microorganisms},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753604},
issn = {2076-2607},
abstract = {Monkeypox (Mpox), a zoonotic viral disease caused by the Monkeypox Virus (MPXV), has gained significant attention in recent years due to its increasing incidence and the grave threat it poses to global health. MPXV has spread at a rapid pace during the COVID-19 pandemic, causing 10,000+ confirmed cases and ~300 fatalities in 122 countries. This virus comprises two major clades, Clade I (Central African), which is evidently more virulent, and Clade II (West African), which has caused the recent outbreaks across the world and caused fewer deaths. Clinically, Mpox presents as a milder form with fever, lymphadenopathy, and vesiculopustular rash similar to smallpox. Diagnostic measures such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are the main diagnostic confirmatory tools. Advanced diagnostics involve electronic microscopy, serology, and immunohistochemistry. Alternative drugs like tecovirimat and brincidofovir have demonstrated potential for treating smallpox, but there is scanty evidence on their efficacy against MPXV. Most recent advancements in the study of vaccines have resulted in the creation and introduction of MVA-BN (JYNNEOS/Imvanex/Imvamune) and ACAM2000 vaccines, which conferred cross-protection against MPXV. MVA-BN is suggested to perform better than other types due to its enhanced safety and immunogenicity. Researchers are also developing DNA and protein subunit vaccines against Mpox to induce specific immune responses by presenting viral proteins. The discovery of novel vaccine candidates and antiviral treatments will be needed to prevent future outbreaks and reduce the global health burden of Mpox. This review focuses on the characterization of MPXV, summarizing current knowledge on its genomic structure, pathogenesis, replication, potential targets of anti-MPXV drugs, clinical features, and epidemiological patterns, along with recent advances in vaccine development.},
}

@article {pmid41753974,
year = {2026},
author = {Haimi, M},
title = {Nurse-Led Telephone Triage in Contemporary Healthcare: Bridging the Gap Between Patient Need and Resource Allocation.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {},
pmid = {41753974},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background: Nurse teletriage has emerged as a component of modern healthcare delivery, utilizing telecommunication technologies to assess patient conditions remotely and guide appropriate care decisions. As healthcare systems face increasing demand and the need for cost-effective care delivery, teletriage services have expanded, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: This narrative review examines the current state of nurse teletriage practice, its effectiveness, safety outcomes, and implementation considerations. A comparative analysis with physician-led teletriage models is provided, and the emerging role of artificial intelligence is explored. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted through searches of multiple databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. This approach was selected due to the heterogeneous nature of the teletriage literature, which spans diverse study designs, populations, and outcomes that are not amenable to formal systematic synthesis. Peer-reviewed articles published between 1970 and 2024 examining safety outcomes, effectiveness, and implementation frameworks were reviewed. Results: The available evidence suggests that nurse-led teletriage systems, particularly when supported by computerized decision support systems, can improve patient access to care while maintaining safety standards. Studies indicate that telephone triage nursing does not increase mortality, hospitalization rates, or emergency department referrals when properly implemented. One well-documented physician-led model in Israel reported diagnosis accuracy rates of 98.5% and decision reasonableness rates of 92%, though generalizability across settings requires caution. Key success factors appear to include the use of evidence-based protocols, staff training, technology infrastructure, and quality assurance programs. While these findings are promising, the heterogeneous nature of the included studies and absence of formal quality assessment warrant cautious interpretation. Conclusions: Nurse teletriage appears to be an effective and safe approach to healthcare delivery that addresses challenges in modern healthcare systems. The choice between nurse-led and physician-led models should consider population complexity, case types, available resources, and economic factors. Artificial intelligence technologies offer potential opportunities to enhance teletriage, though careful validation is essential. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes, comparative effectiveness across healthcare systems, and rigorous evaluation of AI applications. Highlights: Telephone triage services, where nurses or physicians assess patients remotely and guide them to appropriate care, have become increasingly important in modern healthcare. This narrative review examines the evidence on nurse-led telephone triage, comparing it with physician-led models and exploring emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. The available evidence suggests that nurse-led systems, when supported by appropriate protocols and training, can safely improve patient access to care while reducing healthcare costs. Physician-led models may offer advantages for complex cases but at higher costs. While artificial intelligence shows promise for enhancing triage accuracy, current evidence specific to telephone triage remains limited. Healthcare organizations should carefully consider their population needs, available resources, and local context when implementing teletriage services.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41754496,
year = {2026},
author = {Federico, M},
title = {Potential Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein on HIV-1 Reservoir in People Living with HIV.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754496},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {RIP-1//Ministry of Health, Italy/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics ; *HIV-1/physiology ; *HIV Infections/virology/immunology ; Virus Latency ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/immunology ; Virus Activation ; },
abstract = {People living with HIV-1 (PLWH) are part of the so-called "fragile" populations to which COVID-19 vaccines were/are strongly recommended. The fact that most widely used COVID-19 vaccines rely on the production of a biologically active SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein expressed by synthetic mRNA poses the relevant question of whether and how this vaccination influences the fate of the HIV-1 reservoir. This report presents a detailed analysis of the literature data on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 Spike and COVID-19 vaccines on HIV-1 latently infected cells. Despite being limited in number, the experimental evidences consistently indicate that vaccine mRNA and/or SARS-CoV-2 Spike can effectively reactivate latent HIV-1. This conclusion has been drawn after "in vitro", "ex vivo", and "in vivo" assays, and with virus-associated Spike, soluble Spike, or its intracellular expression, as well as with COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. On the other hand, real-world observations on vaccinated PLWH under antiretroviral therapy (ART) provided evidence of HIV-1 reactivation almost exclusively in PLWH with unsuppressed viremia, as measured in terms of size of the HIV-1 reservoir. Although several issues still need to be clarified through urgent additional investigations, these data suggest the possibility that the Spike protein and/or the vaccine mRNA molecules affect the HIV-1 latency in PLWH.},
}

Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics
*HIV-1/physiology
*HIV Infections/virology/immunology
Virus Latency
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/immunology
Virus Activation

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

Humans
*Blood Platelets/virology/immunology
*Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
*Virus Diseases/immunology/virology
Platelet Activation
Immunity, Innate
Thrombosis/virology
SARS-CoV-2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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