@article {pmid41810466,
year = {2026},
author = {Egorova, VS and Kolesova, EP and Voronina, MV and Denisova, ER and Syrocheva, AO and Pallaeva, T and Hakemi, MG and Zamyatnin, AA and Ivanov, KI and Kostyushev, D and Brezgin, S and Kostyusheva, A and Parodi, A},
title = {From bench to bedside: Unveiling the background and benefits of nanovaccines tested in clinics.},
journal = {Asian journal of pharmaceutical sciences},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {101116},
pmid = {41810466},
issn = {2221-285X},
abstract = {Despite the growing body of literature on nanovaccines, focused analyses of platforms tested in and undergoing clinical investigation remain limited. This review addresses this gap by critically examining recent advancements and highlighting nanovaccine technologies that have undergone human clinical trials. Using an extensive search on clinicaltrials.org, we explored the diverse applications of nanovaccines, including leading SARS-CoV-2 candidates and platforms targeting other infectious diseases and cancers. We also highlighted foundational research that has enabled clinical investigation of nanovaccines over the past decade, highlighting their potential to address a range of medical conditions. While many technologies have been developed to combat SARS-CoV-2, several key innovations targeted a broader spectrum of diseases. This review details these technologies, focusing on their materials and mechanisms of action in inducing immune protection, while also exploring how nanomedicine facilitates nanovaccine development and introduces novel adjuvant concepts. Finally, we provided a retrospective analysis of the development journey of these platforms, offering insights into the intellectual and technological efforts behind their clinical translation. By bridging the gap between research and application, this review aims to give readers a comprehensive understanding of how nanovaccines progress from the laboratory to clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid41810312,
year = {2026},
author = {Lihemo, G and Blunt, M and Dadari, I and Underwood, T and Ochoa Toasa, AE and Velias, A and Hopkins, KL and Thomson, A and Kanwagi, R and Gillespie, A and Pokharel, DR and Singh, S},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on general vaccine acceptance in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1764389},
pmid = {41810312},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Developing Countries ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology ; *Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a major decline in childhood vaccination, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, its specific impact on vaccine hesitancy in the immediate post-pandemic years, particularly toward non-COVID-19 vaccines, remains unclear. Understanding the social and behavioral factors influencing vaccine acceptance following a public health emergency such as the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to improving immunization coverage. This systematic review examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on general vaccine acceptance in LMICs to inform strategies to improve vaccine uptake.

METHODS: This systematic review assessed people's thinking and feeling, motivations, practical issues, and social processes around vaccination, conceptualized by the World Health Organization's Behavioural and Social Drivers framework. Studies were included if they were interventional or observational in design, examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on vaccine hesitancy or acceptance for non-COVID-19 vaccines, and were published in English between 2020 and 2023.

RESULTS: A total of 23 studies were included in the review, with most studies conducted in middle-income settings and focused on healthcare workers or parents/caregivers of children. Findings belonging to the "Thinking and Feeling" category were the most commonly reported in 91% (n = 21/23) of studies. Over half (61%) of studies reported findings relating to the 'Motivation' construct, while 43% of studies reported outcomes related to 'Practical Issues' and 'Social Processes'. Studies reported both increases and decreases in vaccine hesitancy and intention to vaccinate due to the pandemic. Overall, studies most commonly reported that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative or neutral effect on attitudes, intentions, and actions regarding vaccine acceptance.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review illustrates how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced vaccine acceptance and decision-making in complex, context-dependent ways, impacting people's thinking and feeling, motivations, practical issues, and social processes around vaccination. The findings highlight the need to understand the specific drivers of vaccine acceptance to design more effective, targeted strategies to improve immunization uptake. The insights from this study can be used to inform evidence-based vaccination catch-up strategies to regain pandemic losses and mitigate factors that deter individuals from seeking vaccination.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Developing Countries
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology
*Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid41809895,
year = {2025},
author = {Shi, Y and Sun, K and Hu, Y and Lou, Z and Wang, Y and You, J},
title = {The strategies and advances of mRNA translation booster.},
journal = {Asian journal of pharmaceutical sciences},
volume = {20},
number = {6},
pages = {101090},
pmid = {41809895},
issn = {2221-285X},
abstract = {The therapeutic efficacy and safety of mRNA-based drugs in immunological and nonimmunological applications are critically dependent on the translated protein yield, which requires precise modulation of mRNA expression kinetics. Among the factors influencing mRNA translation, immunogenicity and stability are pivotal in determining the longevity of protein production. Current optimization strategies have integrated (1) molecular engineering (e.g., modified nucleotides), (2) advanced delivery systems (e.g., lipid nanoparticles), and (3) adjuvant drug synergy. This review focuses on co-delivered adjuvant drugs and introduces the concept of "mRNA translation boosters" for the first time. mRNA translation boosters are classified as small-molecule compounds and macromolecular agents that improve translational fidelity through mechanisms including blockade of pattern recognition receptors, modulation of inflammatory cascades, facilitation of endosomal escape, and protection against enzymatic degradation. As clinically validated with COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, these boosters have now demonstrated expanded utility in gene editing therapies and protein replacement applications. This review addresses the immunological challenges encountered during mRNA transfection and translation while summarizing existing mRNA translation boosters that optimize protein expression kinetics. By establishing a mechanistic framework for booster selection and employment, this work provides translational guidance for advancing nucleic acid therapeutics towards their maximum clinical potential.},
}

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

@article {pmid41808188,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahon, N and Hays, LMC and Coy, E and Ainscough, K and Burrell, A and Gordon, AC and Rochwerg, B and Wang, CM and Harvey, D and Parekh, D and Goligher, E and Toal, F and Saito, H and Marshall, JC and Stewart, J and Gobat, N and Webb, S and Tolppa, T and McAuley, DF and Nichol, AD},
title = {Views on consent approaches used in emergency and critical care research: a rapid, systematic review.},
journal = {Trials},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13063-026-09592-9},
pmid = {41808188},
issn = {1745-6215},
support = {CTN-2021-010/HRBI_/Health Research Board/Ireland ; DIFA-2023-025/HRBI_/Health Research Board/Ireland ; APRO-2023-017/HRBI_/Health Research Board/Ireland ; NIHR155209//Health Technology Assessment Programme/ ; NIHR154493//Efficacy and Mechanism Evaluation Programme/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Obtaining informed consent can be challenging in emergency and critical care research due to the acute and severe nature of the patient's condition. However, such research is urgently needed to inform practice and optimise patient outcomes. While alternative consent approaches have been commonly used, opinions may vary, particularly among diverse and underserved patient groups and in the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this review was to assess views of alternative consent methods in emergency and critical care research.

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41805020,
year = {2026},
author = {Uddin, ME and Asaduzzaman, M and Ahmad, T and Ahmed, S and Kundu, SK and Khan, MMH and Islam, MM and Hossen, MM and Sheikh, MR and Sheikh, MMI},
title = {Vitamin D and Zinc in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Immunomodulatory Mechanisms and Clinical Evidence.},
journal = {Viral immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {8828245261426982},
doi = {10.1177/08828245261426982},
pmid = {41805020},
issn = {1557-8976},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in approximately 778 million reported cases and over 7 million deaths worldwide as of August 2025 (WHO COVID-19 Dashboard), predominantly due to variable acute and chronic lung infections accompanied by inflammatory responses within the pulmonary tract and vasculature. Despite ongoing research, no definitive cure has been identified. Preventive measures, including vaccines and monoclonal antibody-based interventions, have been developed to protect vulnerable populations, and hundreds of therapeutic candidates have been evaluated worldwide. Complementing these strategies, vitamin D and zinc (Zn) supplementation have emerged as promising, accessible adjunctive strategies due to their immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. This review synthesizes current experimental, clinical, and epidemiological evidence on the roles of vitamin D and Zn in modulating immune responses relevant to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Available data suggest that adequate vitamin D and Zn status may support immune function, reduce excessive inflammation, and potentially mitigate disease severity, particularly in deficient individuals. However, clinical trial outcomes remain heterogeneous. Overall, vitamin D and Zn supplementation may be considered supportive, adjunctive preventive measures. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to define their optimal use in COVID-19 prevention and management.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {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 ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Retrospective Studies ; *Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy ; Longitudinal Studies ; Male ; Adult ; Female ; },
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
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Retrospective Studies
*Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy
Longitudinal Studies
Male
Adult
Female

@article {pmid41652425,
year = {2026},
author = {Halder, P and Khaiwal, R and Goel, S and Kumar, N and Sarkar, M and Soni, M and Nongkynrih, B and Prabhakar, MC and Mamgai, A and Rathor, S},
title = {Burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease among Indian adults: systematic review and meta‑analysis.},
journal = {BMC pulmonary medicine},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41652425},
issn = {1471-2466},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a long-standing respiratory illness marked by ongoing airflow obstruction and inflammation. It continues to be a major contributor to global disease, and death, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experiencing a disproportionate impact. India, as one of the largest LMICs, plays a significant role in global COPD-related mortality and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). In India, COPD continues to be underrecognized owing to limited spirometry availability, inconsistent diagnostic approaches, and weak surveillance systems. Previous prevalence estimates are both outdated and methodologically inconsistent, while the COVID-19 pandemic may have further shifted disease trends. This systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to bridge these gaps by delivering current, standardized, and comprehensive prevalence data.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the pooled prevalence of spirometry-confirmed COPD among Indian adults and identify key demographic and environmental correlates through a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the prevalence of spirometry-confirmed COPD among Indian adults. The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251140678) and conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Literature searches were carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science up to June 9, 2025, using relevant MeSH terms and keywords on COPD, prevalence, and India. Eligible studies included observational designs reporting spirometry-based COPD prevalence in adults; studies relying on non-spirometry diagnosis, qualitative designs, interventions, or non-English publications were excluded. Three reviewers independently screened records, extracted study and population data, and evaluated methodological quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed with I[2] and Cochran’s Q, complemented by Baujat and Galbraith plots. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses examined variations by diagnostic criteria, demographics, and exposures, while publication bias was tested using funnel plots, Egger’s and Begg’s methods, and trim-and-fill analysis.

RESULTS: Twenty-three studies comprising 27,319 Indian adults were included. The pooled prevalence of COPD was 13% (95% CI: 9%–18%), with substantial heterogeneity (I[2] = 99.8%). Higher prevalence was observed among smokers (37%), elderly adults (≥ 60 years: 27%), males (16%), and biomass fuel users (8%). Studies using GOLD criteria reported a higher prevalence (15%) than those using FEV₁/FVC < LLN (10%). Hospital-based studies showed a greater prevalence (27%) than community-based ones (12%). Regional variation was notable, with North India reporting the highest prevalence (19%) and West India the lowest (7%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of findings; publication bias was minimal and did not significantly affect pooled estimates.

CONCLUSION: COPD remains a significant and underrecognized public health challenge in India. As all included studies were appraised as good quality using the JBI tool, the evidence base is strong and supports reliable pooled estimates. Therefore, our conclusions emphasize the importance of routine spirometry-based screening, targeted interventions for high-risk groups, and integration of COPD surveillance into India’s NCD framework, while reinforcing gender-sensitive strategies and clean fuel initiatives as evidence-based measures to reduce disease burden and guide policy planning.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12890-026-04134-0.},
}

@article {pmid37620009,
year = {2023},
author = {Bevilacqua, L and Fox-Smith, L and Lewins, A and Jetha, P and Sideri, A and Barton, G and Meiser-Stedman, R and Beazley, P},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of children and young people: an umbrella review.},
journal = {Journal of epidemiology and community health},
volume = {77},
number = {11},
pages = {704-709},
doi = {10.1136/jech-2022-220259},
pmid = {37620009},
issn = {1470-2738},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Mental Health ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; Female ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Over the past 3 years, a multitude of studies have highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and young people (CYP). In this umbrella review, we synthesise global evidence on the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of CYP from existing systematic reviews with and/or without meta-analysis.

METHODS: Adopting the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we evaluated 349 citations and identified 24 eligible reviews with medium to high methodological quality to be reviewed narratively.

RESULTS: Most of the reviews reported a high prevalence of anxiety disorders, depression, suicidal behaviour, eating disorders and other mental health problems. Most studies that used data at multiple time points indicate a significant increase in mental health problems in CYP, particularly in females and older adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS: Multipronged psychosocial care services, policies and programmes are needed to alleviate the burden of mental health problems in CYP as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated global health measures.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42021276312.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Child
Adolescent
*Mental Health
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
Female
SARS-CoV-2
Male
Pandemics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid37777609,
year = {2023},
author = {Haward, MF and Lucena, MH and Fuloria, M},
title = {Research Ethics in Pregnancy: The Maternal-Fetal Dyad.},
journal = {NeoReviews},
volume = {24},
number = {10},
pages = {e607-e615},
doi = {10.1542/neo.24-10-e607},
pmid = {37777609},
issn = {1526-9906},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; COVID-19 ; *Ethics, Research ; *Pregnant People/psychology ; *Maternal-Fetal Relations ; Personal Autonomy ; },
abstract = {Pregnant persons and their physicians often make decisions for health care without clinical evidence to guide their choices. Years of exclusionary practices in research, dominated by fears of fetal harm, have resulted in limited evidence on therapies for pregnancy-specific conditions. It has also eroded pregnant persons' rights as autonomous individuals capable of weighing risks and benefits to make choices for themselves and their infants based on sound evidence. A paradigm shift from "routine exclusion" to "fair inclusion" of pregnant persons in clinical trials is needed to ensure that ethical principles are upheld when undertaking research in this population. This article will provide a brief review of the historical aspects of clinical research ethics for pregnant persons, focus on some key concepts within the context of the maternal-fetal dyad, and include a recent example from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to understand how society has interpreted tensions among the ethical principles of justice, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and autonomy. Note: This review uses the term "pregnant person(s)" to include women and people who are pregnant and do not identify themselves as women.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
COVID-19
*Ethics, Research
*Pregnant People/psychology
*Maternal-Fetal Relations
Personal Autonomy

@article {pmid37763662,
year = {2023},
author = {Lin, CS and Chang, CH},
title = {Disseminated Herpes Zoster Following Protein Subunit and mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination in Immunocompetent Patients: Report of Two Cases and Literature Review.},
journal = {Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)},
volume = {59},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {37763662},
issn = {1648-9144},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *Herpes Zoster/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; 2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Immunocompetence ; Vaccines, Subunit/adverse effects ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Disseminated herpes zoster (DHZ), resulting from the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), typically occurs in immunocompromised persons. To date, only four cases of DHZ following mRNA, viral vector, or inactivated COVID-19 vaccinations have been reported in immunocompetent patients. Herein, we present the first case of DHZ following the protein subunit COVID-19 vaccination (case 1, 64 years old) and a case of DHZ following mRNA COVID-19 vaccination (case 2, 67 years old) in elderly, immunocompetent male patients. Both cases were generally healthy, without a remarkable underlying disease and without a history of immunosuppressant use. Case 1 developed DHZ (left C3-5 predominant) 1 month after receiving the third dose of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein vaccine (MVC-COV1901). Case 2 developed DHZ (right V1-3 predominant) 7 days after receiving the second dose of the mRNA-1273 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Through skin examination, Tzanck smears, and dermoscopy, the diagnosis of COVID-19 vaccination-related DHZ was established in both cases. Oral famciclovir (250 mg, three times/day for 7 days) was administered, and both cases achieved total remission of skin lesions without visceral involvement or severe post-herpetic neuralgia. Our cases demonstrate that DHZ, as a rare cutaneous adverse event in immunocompetent patients, can be secondary not only to mRNA COVID-19 vaccination but also to the protein subunit COVID-19 vaccination. It is speculated that the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 could be the common trigger for the reactivation of VZV among different types of vaccinations.},
}

Humans
Male
*Herpes Zoster/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis
Aged
Middle Aged
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Immunocompetence
Vaccines, Subunit/adverse effects
Vaccination/adverse effects

@article {pmid37755074,
year = {2023},
author = {Liyanage, NM and Nagahawatta, DP and Jayawardena, TU and Sanjeewa, KKA and Jayawrdhana, HHACK and Kim, JI and Jeon, YJ},
title = {Sulfated Polysaccharides from Seaweeds: A Promising Strategy for Combatting Viral Diseases-A Review.},
journal = {Marine drugs},
volume = {21},
number = {9},
pages = {},
pmid = {37755074},
issn = {1660-3397},
mesh = {*Seaweed/chemistry ; *Polysaccharides/chemistry/isolation & purification/pharmacology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Sulfuric Acid Esters/chemistry/isolation & purification/pharmacology ; *Antiviral Agents/isolation & purification/pharmacology ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {The limited availability of treatments for many infectious diseases highlights the need for new treatments, particularly for viral infections. Natural compounds from seaweed are attracting increasing attention for the treatment of various viral diseases, and thousands of novel compounds have been isolated for the development of pharmaceutical products. Seaweed is a rich source of natural bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides. The discovery of algal polysaccharides with antiviral activity has significantly increased in the past few decades. Furthermore, unique polysaccharides isolated from seaweeds, such as carrageenan, alginates, fucoidans, galactans, laminarians, and ulvans, have been shown to act against viral infections. The antiviral mechanisms of these agents are based on their inhibition of DNA or RNA synthesis, viral entry, and viral replication. In this article, we review and provide an inclusive description of the antiviral activities of algal polysaccharides. Additionally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities for developing polysaccharide-based antiviral therapies, including issues related to drug delivery and formulation. Finally, this review highlights the need for further research for fully understanding the potential of seaweed polysaccharides as a source of antiviral agents and for developing effective treatments for viral diseases.},
}

*Seaweed/chemistry
*Polysaccharides/chemistry/isolation & purification/pharmacology
Humans
Animals
*Sulfuric Acid Esters/chemistry/isolation & purification/pharmacology
*Antiviral Agents/isolation & purification/pharmacology
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid37691280,
year = {2023},
author = {Kyriazopoulou, E and Giamarellos-Bourboulis, EJ and Akinosoglou, K},
title = {Biomarkers to guide immunomodulatory treatment: where do we stand?.},
journal = {Expert review of molecular diagnostics},
volume = {23},
number = {11},
pages = {945-958},
doi = {10.1080/14737159.2023.2258063},
pmid = {37691280},
issn = {1744-8352},
mesh = {Humans ; *Biomarkers ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; COVID-19/immunology/therapy ; *Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; *Immunomodulation ; Precision Medicine/methods ; Critical Illness/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This review summarizes current progress in the development of biomarkers to guide immunotherapy in oncology, rheumatology, and critical illness.

AREAS COVERED: An extensive literature search was performed about biomarkers classifying patients' immune responses to guide immunotherapy in oncology, rheumatology, and critical illness. Surface markers, such as programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), genetic biomarkers, such as tumor mutation load, and circulating tumor DNA are biomarkers associated with the effectiveness of immunotherapy in oncology. Genomics, metabolomics, and proteomics play a crucial role in selecting the most suitable therapeutic options for rheumatologic patients. Phenotypes and endotypes are a promising approach to detect critically ill patients with hyper- or hypo-inflammation. Sepsis trials using biomarkers such as ferritin, lymphopenia, HLA-DR expression on monocytes and PD-L1 to guide immunotherapy have been already conducted or are currently ongoing. Immunotherapy in COVID-19 pneumonia, guided by C-reactive protein and soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) has improved patient outcomes globally. More research is needed into immunotherapy in other critical conditions.

EXPERT OPINION: Targeted immunotherapy has improved outcomes in oncology and rheumatology, paving the way for precision medicine in the critically ill. Transcriptomics will play a crucial role in detecting the most suitable candidates for immunomodulation.},
}

Humans
*Biomarkers
*Immunotherapy/methods
COVID-19/immunology/therapy
*Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
*Immunomodulation
Precision Medicine/methods
Critical Illness/therapy
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37670699,
year = {2023},
author = {Mohtasham, N and Bargi, R and Farshbaf, A and Shahri, MV and Hesari, KK and Mohajertehran, F},
title = {Salivary Antiviral and Antibacterial Properties in the Encounter of SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical design},
volume = {29},
number = {27},
pages = {2140-2148},
doi = {10.2174/1381612829666230904150823},
pmid = {37670699},
issn = {1873-4286},
mesh = {Humans ; *Saliva/chemistry/metabolism/immunology ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/virology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Due to the high mortality rate of COVID-19 and its high variability and mutability, it is essential to know the body's defense mechanisms against this virus. Saliva has numerous functions, such as digestion, protection, and antimicrobial effects. Salivary diagnostic tests for many oral and systemic diseases will be available soon because saliva is a pool of biological markers. The most important antiviral and antibacterial compounds identified in saliva include lysozyme, lactoferrin (LF), mucins, cathelicidin, salivary secretory immunoglobulin (SIgA), chromogranin A, cathelicidin, salivary agglutinin (SAG) (gp340, DMBT1), α, β defensins, cystatin, histatins, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI), heat shock protein (HSP), adrenomedullin and microRNA (miRNAs). Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in saliva could be used in the future as models for designing effective oral microbial antibiotics. The antiviral properties of the peptides in saliva may be one of the future treatments for the COVID-19 virus. In this review, we investigate compounds with antiviral and antibacterial properties in saliva and the importance of these compounds in saliva in exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Due to the transmission route of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) into the oral cavity in the lower and upper respiratory tract, studies of salivary antiviral properties in these patients are very important. Some of the antiviral effects of saliva, especially mucin, α, β-defensins, IgA, IgG, IgM, lysozyme, SAG, SLPI, and histatins, may play a greater role in neutralizing or eliminating COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Saliva/chemistry/metabolism/immunology
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology/therapeutic use
COVID-19/virology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Antimicrobial Peptides/pharmacology

@article {pmid37644796,
year = {2023},
author = {Shi, Y and He, D and Zhang, X and Yuan, M and Liu, X},
title = {Research Progress in Nanopharmaceuticals with Different Delivery Routes in the Antivirus Field.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical design},
volume = {29},
number = {25},
pages = {1975-1991},
doi = {10.2174/1381612829666230830105817},
pmid = {37644796},
issn = {1873-4286},
support = {2020GXNSFAA297178//Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Province/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/administration & dosage/chemistry ; Humans ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry/administration & dosage ; *Drug Delivery Systems ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Animals ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy ; Drug Administration Routes ; *Nanoparticle Drug Delivery System ; },
abstract = {Human health is significantly threatened by infectious diseases caused by viral infection. Over the years, there have been numerous virus epidemics worldwide, causing millions of deaths. Traditional antiviral medications have many problems, including poor solubility and antiviral resistance. Additionally, because different drug delivery methods have different biological barriers to overcome, the drug's bioavailability will be significantly affected. Therefore, it is essential that researchers create more effective antiviral drugs. To serve as a guide for the future development of nanosized antiviral drugs with stronger and more precise therapeutic effects, research has been performed on nanotechnology in the field of antiviral therapy. This review summarizes the recent developments in antiviral nanopharmaceuticals with different delivery routes. Research on 7 typical viruses, including COVID-19, has been included in this review. After being loaded into nanoparticles, antiviral drugs can be delivered through several drug modes of delivery, overcoming biological barriers. Moreover, some nanoparticles themselves have the ability to combat infections, so they can be used in conjunction with antiviral medication. The use of nanoparticle medications through various routes of administration can result in their unique benefits. They can be capable of overcoming its limitations as well as retaining the advantages of this method of delivery. This will motivate researchers to conducted a new investigation on nanoparticle medicines from the standpoint of the route of administration in order to increase the practicability of antiviral medications.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/administration & dosage/chemistry
Humans
*Nanoparticles/chemistry/administration & dosage
*Drug Delivery Systems
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Animals
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy
Drug Administration Routes
*Nanoparticle Drug Delivery System

@article {pmid37624141,
year = {2023},
author = {Dasgupta, S and Chandra, A},
title = {Rational quality and cost of critical care systems are more important than individual considerations: a view from India.},
journal = {Postgraduate medical journal},
volume = {99},
number = {1177},
pages = {1207-1209},
doi = {10.1093/postmj/qgad068},
pmid = {37624141},
issn = {1469-0756},
mesh = {Humans ; India ; *Critical Care/economics/standards ; *Intensive Care Units/economics/standards ; *Quality of Health Care/economics ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; *Health Care Costs ; Telemedicine/economics ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Critical or Intensive Care Units (CCU/ICUs) play a crucial role in treating critically ill patients, but they contribute significantly to healthcare costs. In India and many other resource-limited countries, private ICU treatment is largely unaffordable for the poor and even a section of the middle class, who are not substantially insured. It is essential for all stakeholders involved in critical care to prioritize quality and cost-effectiveness. To ensure quality assurance, legally binding quality standards must be developed collaboratively by the government, professional bodies, hospital administrators, and domain experts. Regulatory benchmarks relevant to different types of ICUs can enforce adherence and transparency. Telemedicine, referral systems, and interhospital transport need improvement. Addressing attrition rates among staff and greater empowerment of formally qualified registered intensivists in the private hospitals can enhance outcomes and cost control. Long-term post-ICU recovery care is often unaffordable or unavailable in many parts of the world. Engaging families in home care and providing training in basic caregiving tasks can improve outcomes and reduce costs. In areas with limited access to qualified professionals, training of lay community caregivers and practitioners can be beneficial. Multidisciplinary post-ICU clinics and necessary telephonic handholding can support home-based patients and their families. Standardizing prices of essential necessities and promoting rational practices are crucial. System-wide efforts and novel approaches like decentralization of critical care services are necessary to ensure holistic quality and cost-effectiveness, particularly in densely populated countries with resource limitations. These innovations will not only improve care but also enhance preparedness for future pandemics.},
}

Humans
India
*Critical Care/economics/standards
*Intensive Care Units/economics/standards
*Quality of Health Care/economics
Cost-Benefit Analysis
*Health Care Costs
Telemedicine/economics
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid37611787,
year = {2023},
author = {Wong, WM and Wang, X and Wang, Y},
title = {The intersection of COVID-19 and air pollution: A systematic literature network analysis and roadmap for future research.},
journal = {Environmental research},
volume = {237},
number = {Pt 2},
pages = {116839},
doi = {10.1016/j.envres.2023.116839},
pmid = {37611787},
issn = {1096-0953},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Air Pollution/adverse effects/analysis ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Bibliometrics ; Air Pollutants/analysis ; Nitrogen Dioxide/analysis ; },
abstract = {This paper employs systematic literature network analysis, including a literature review and bibliometric network analysis, to explore the COVID-19 and air pollution literature. A total of 1208 relevant documents from the Scopus database were analyzed using VOSviewer and SciMAT to examine author, keyword, and country interconnections. The paper addresses three research questions: (1) the latest studies on COVID-19 and air pollution, (2) influential authors, documents, and sources in the field, and (3) the study's findings as a roadmap for future research. Visual representations of author and country networks highlight influential entities based on citation rate. Keyword cluster analysis via VOSviewer summarizes connections based on link strength. The strategic diagram generated by SciMAT offers insights into future research directions in specific thematic keywords: (1) air pollution, (2) nitrogen dioxide, (3) epidemiology, and (4) atmospheric aerosol. This analysis enhances understanding of COVID-19 and air pollution and guides future research endeavors.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Air Pollution/adverse effects/analysis
Humans
SARS-CoV-2
Bibliometrics
Air Pollutants/analysis
Nitrogen Dioxide/analysis

@article {pmid37598054,
year = {2023},
author = {Yu, SY and Choi, M and Cheong, C and Ryoo, S and Huh, K and Yoon, YK and Choi, J and Kim, SB},
title = {Clinical efficacy and safety of SARS-CoV-2-neutralizing monoclonal antibody in patients with COVID-19: A living systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology, immunology, and infection = Wei mian yu gan ran za zhi},
volume = {56},
number = {5},
pages = {909-920},
doi = {10.1016/j.jmii.2023.07.009},
pmid = {37598054},
issn = {1995-9133},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/mortality/therapy/immunology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Treatment Outcome ; *Antibodies, Viral/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with usual care in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy and safety of neutralizing mAb treatment in patients with COVID-19 were identified using electronic database searches through March 10, 2023. This systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Overall, 13 trials (23 articles) involving 25,646 patients were included in this systematic review. Compared with usual care, neutralizing mAbs were associated with significantly reduced all-cause mortality in outpatients with COVID-19 (pooled risk ratios [RR], 0.41; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.20-0.83; 12 studies), but not in inpatients. In the subgroup analysis, only outpatients infected prior to the emergence of Delta variant or those with mAb-VOC match had significantly reduced mortality, while no significant benefit was observed in patients infected with Delta and post-Delta variants or mAb-VOC mismatch. Moreover, the rate of hospitalization and number of hospital visits had significantly reduced only in outpatients infected prior to the emergence of the Delta variant and those with mAb-VOC match. Our systematic review used majority of the high-certainty evidence. Our study found neutralizing mAbs were beneficial for outpatients infected prior to Delta variant or mAb-VOC match. In the face of the continuous emergence of new COVID-19 variants, additional clinical data are needed to determine whether neutralizing mAb treatment will be effective for the newly emerging variants.},
}

Humans
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*COVID-19/mortality/therapy/immunology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Treatment Outcome
*Antibodies, Viral/therapeutic use

@article {pmid37592246,
year = {2023},
author = {Dulude, C and Sutherland, S and Vanderhout, S and King, WJ and Zuijdwijk, C and Major, N and Audcent, T and Howley, H and Cloutier, P and Buba, M and Jain, R and Litwinska, J and Findlay, L and Malic, C and Macaulay, K and Parker, K and Kouri, C and Goldbloom, EB},
title = {A pediatric virtual care evaluation framework and its evolution using consensus methods.},
journal = {BMC pediatrics},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {402},
pmid = {37592246},
issn = {1471-2431},
mesh = {Child ; Humans ; Consensus ; *COVID-19 ; *Health Equity ; Health Facilities ; Pandemics ; *Program Evaluation/standards ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The use of virtual care has increased dramatically in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, yet evidence is lacking regarding the impact of virtual care on patient outcomes, particularly in pediatrics. A standardized evaluation approach is required to support the integration of virtual care into pediatric health care delivery programs. The objective of this work was to develop a comprehensive and structured framework for pediatric virtual care evaluation. This framework is intended to engage and guide care providers, health centres, and stakeholders towards the development of a standardized approach to the evaluation of pediatric virtual care.

METHODS: We brought together a diverse multidisciplinary team, including pediatric clinicians, researchers, digital health leads and analysts, program leaders, a human factors engineer, a family advisor and our manager of health equity and diversity. The team reviewed the literature, including published evaluation frameworks, and used a consensus-based method to develop a virtual care evaluation framework applicable to a broad spectrum of pediatric virtual care programs. We used an iterative process to develop framework components, including domains and sub-domains, examples of evaluation questions, measures, and data sources. Team members met repeatedly over seven months to generate and provide feedback on all components of the framework, making revision as needed until consensus was reached. The framework was then applied to an existing virtual care program.

RESULTS: The resulting framework includes four domains (health outcomes, health delivery, individual experience, and program implementation) and 19 sub-domains designed to support the development and evaluation of pediatric virtual care programs. We also developed guidance on how to use the framework and illustrate its utility by applying it to an existing pediatric virtual care program.

CONCLUSIONS: This virtual care evaluation framework expands on previously developed frameworks by providing additional detail and a structure that supports practical application. It can be used to evaluate a wide range of pediatric virtual care programs in a standardized manner. Use of this comprehensive yet easy to use evaluation framework will inform appropriate implementation and integration of virtual care into routine practice and support its sustainability and continuous improvement.},
}

Child
Humans
Consensus
*COVID-19
*Health Equity
Health Facilities
Pandemics
*Program Evaluation/standards

@article {pmid37572095,
year = {2023},
author = {Serrano Córdova, C and Torres, I and López-Cevallos, D},
title = {Exploring the impact of Ecuador's policies on the right to health of Venezuelan migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review.},
journal = {Health policy and planning},
volume = {38},
number = {9},
pages = {1099-1112},
pmid = {37572095},
issn = {1460-2237},
support = {//Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft/ ; },
mesh = {Ecuador/epidemiology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Venezuela/ethnology/epidemiology ; *Transients and Migrants/legislation & jurisprudence ; *Right to Health/legislation & jurisprudence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Health Policy ; Refugees ; },
abstract = {Venezuela's ongoing economic and political crisis has forced >6 million people to emigrate from the country since 2014. In the Andean region, Ecuador is one of the main host countries for Venezuelan migrants and refugees. During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, specific measures were implemented in the country to control the spread of the disease and its associated impacts. In this context, we conducted a scoping review to understand how policies implemented by the Ecuadorian government during the pandemic impacted Venezuelan migrants' right to health. The literature search focused on scientific and grey publications between 2018 and 2022 in electronic databases and institutional websites, complemented by snowball sampling and expert advice. Our thematic analysis revealed discrepancies between the rights granted to migrants in Ecuador's legal framework and their practical implementation during the pandemic, with several instances of policy and programmatic infringement. The disruption of services further complicated migrant's options for regularization. Some measures, like border closures, negatively impacted migrants' health, including increased exposure to abuse and violence. While migrants were included in the country's COVID-19 vaccination plan, they were excluded from other national aid programmes. There are indications of an increase in xenophobia and discrimination stigmatizing migrants as 'disease carriers' and 'resource takers', resulting in a prioritization of services for the Ecuadorian population. We found limited research on the emergent topic of migrants' vulnerability and related health system challenges. Future research should include working in border zones, consider socioeconomic factors and further explore the poor implementation of Ecuador's legal framework towards upholding migrants' right to health.},
}

Ecuador/epidemiology
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Venezuela/ethnology/epidemiology
*Transients and Migrants/legislation & jurisprudence
*Right to Health/legislation & jurisprudence
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Health Policy
Refugees

@article {pmid37522540,
year = {2023},
author = {Madukwe, DUP and Mike-Ogburia, MI and Nduka, N and Nzeobi, J},
title = {Smart Microfluidics: Synergy of Machine Learning and Microfluidics in the Development of Medical Diagnostics for Chronic and Emerging Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biomedical engineering},
volume = {51},
number = {1},
pages = {41-58},
doi = {10.1615/CritRevBiomedEng.2023047211},
pmid = {37522540},
issn = {1943-619X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Machine Learning ; *COVID-19/diagnosis ; *Microfluidics/methods ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/diagnosis ; Lab-On-A-Chip Devices ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Chronic Disease ; Point-of-Care Systems ; *Microfluidic Analytical Techniques ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, emerging/re-emerging infections as well as other non-communicable chronic diseases, highlight the necessity of smart microfluidic point-of-care diagnostic (POC) devices and systems in developing nations as risk factors for infections, severe disease manifestations and poor clinical outcomes are highly represented in these countries. These POC devices are also becoming vital as analytical procedures executable outside of conventional laboratory settings are seen as the future of healthcare delivery. Microfluidics have grown into a revolutionary system to miniaturize chemical and biological experimentation, including disease detection and diagnosis utilizing μPads/paper-based microfluidic devices, polymer-based microfluidic devices and 3-dimensional printed microfluidic devices. Through the development of droplet digital PCR, single-cell RNA sequencing, and next-generation sequencing, microfluidics in their analogous forms have been the leading contributor to the technical advancements in medicine. Microfluidics and machine-learning-based algorithms complement each other with the possibility of scientific exploration, induced by the framework's robustness, as preliminary studies have documented significant achievements in biomedicine, such as sorting, microencapsulation, and automated detection. Despite these milestones and potential applications, the complexity of microfluidic system design, fabrication, and operation has prevented widespread adoption. As previous studies focused on microfluidic devices that can handle molecular diagnostic procedures, researchers must integrate these components with other microsystem processes like data acquisition, data processing, power supply, fluid control, and sample pretreatment to overcome the barriers to smart microfluidic commercialization.},
}

Humans
*Machine Learning
*COVID-19/diagnosis
*Microfluidics/methods
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/diagnosis
Lab-On-A-Chip Devices
SARS-CoV-2
Chronic Disease
Point-of-Care Systems
*Microfluidic Analytical Techniques

@article {pmid37517166,
year = {2023},
author = {Schweizer, S and Lawson, RP and Blakemore, SJ},
title = {Uncertainty as a driver of the youth mental health crisis.},
journal = {Current opinion in psychology},
volume = {53},
number = {},
pages = {101657},
doi = {10.1016/j.copsyc.2023.101657},
pmid = {37517166},
issn = {2352-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; Uncertainty ; Adolescent ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Mental Health ; *Anxiety/psychology ; *Depression/psychology ; },
abstract = {Mental health problems in young people have been on the rise for over a decade, with that trend accelerating during the pandemic. This review proposes that the catalyst effect of the pandemic offers insights into a key driver of increases in youth depression and anxiety: greater uncertainty. Uncertainty about many aspects of everyday life, including social connections, education, job security and health, increased during the pandemic, and this coincided with increasing rates of depression and anxiety. Lab-based developmental cognitive and clinical neuroscience research on tolerance of uncertainty and adolescent mental health shows that when adolescents fail to show age-typical tolerance of uncertainty, they are at greater risk of mental health problems. Avenues for future research to understand and promote tolerance of uncertainty in adolescents are proposed.},
}

Humans
Uncertainty
Adolescent
*COVID-19/psychology
*Mental Health
*Anxiety/psychology
*Depression/psychology

@article {pmid37460309,
year = {2023},
author = {Connolly, DJ and Eraslan, E and Gilchrist, G},
title = {Coronavirus (COVID-19) and sexualised drug use among men who have sex with men: a systematic review.},
journal = {Sexual health},
volume = {20},
number = {5},
pages = {375-384},
doi = {10.1071/SH23071},
pmid = {37460309},
issn = {1449-8987},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Male ; *Homosexuality, Male/statistics & numerical data/psychology ; *Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology ; *Sexual and Gender Minorities/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; HIV Infections/prevention & control ; Sexual Behavior ; Methamphetamine ; },
abstract = {Drug-related harms, including harms from sexualised drug use (SDU), are disproportionately experienced by sexual and gender minority people, relative to their majority counterparts. Chemsex, a type of SDU practiced mainly by MSM, is associated with methamphetamine use and increased HIV seropositivity or risk of acquisition. Therefore, participants are at increased risk of immunocompromise. Existing evidence suggests that drug use increases following natural disasters. The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on chemsex is unknown. A PRISMA-adherent systematic review was conducted to synthesise reports of changes in the prevalence, frequency, or characteristics of drug use (and factors associated with these changes) following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This report presents findings related to SDU/chemsex among MSM. A comprehensive search across nine databases, supplemented with backward-forward citation searching and contact with key opinion leaders, was conducted. Two reviewers carried out title-abstract screening, full-text screening, and data extraction. Following a final, single database search, nine studies were included in the narrative synthesis. More than half the sample were studies investigating HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis use. Twenty percent of participants in most studies reported chemsex participation. In four, participants reported a net increase or maintenance of chemsex participation during the pandemic and five reported a net decrease. Increased chemsex participation was associated with loneliness, cravings, and working during the pandemic. Decreased chemsex practice was associated with COVID-19-related fear. This synthesis suggests that chemsex practice continued, and for some MSM increased, throughout COVID-19 pandemic 'lockdowns'. This may have increased COVID-19 transmission and severity among potentially vulnerable MSM.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Male
*Homosexuality, Male/statistics & numerical data/psychology
*Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology
*Sexual and Gender Minorities/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
HIV Infections/prevention & control
Sexual Behavior
Methamphetamine

@article {pmid37453136,
year = {2023},
author = {Sienkiewicz-Oleszkiewicz, B and Oleszkiewicz, A and Bock, MA and Hummel, T},
title = {Intranasal insulin's effects on the sense of smell.},
journal = {Rhinology},
volume = {61},
number = {5},
pages = {404-411},
doi = {10.4193/Rhin23.036},
pmid = {37453136},
issn = {0300-0729},
mesh = {Humans ; Administration, Intranasal ; *Insulin/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; *Olfaction Disorders/drug therapy ; *Smell/drug effects ; COVID-19/complications ; Olfactory Mucosa/drug effects ; *Hypoglycemic Agents/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {Intranasal insulin (IN) administration is a promising way to deliver the peptide to the central nervous system (CNS), bypassing the blood-brain-barrier and gastrointestinal absorption inhibition. IN receptors are localized in the olfactory mucosa and the brain, mainly in the olfactory bulb, hypothalamus, hippocampus, amygdala, cerebral cortex, and cerebellum. The pleiotropic mechanism of insulin action is characterized by its anti-inflammatory properties, antithrombotic, vasodilatory, and antiapoptotic effects. It prevents energy failure and has regenerative properties, affects neuro-regeneration and counteracts insulin resistance. Hence, insulin has been suggested for various pathological states including neurocognitive disorders, obesity, and as a therapeutic option for smell loss. A sharply increased prevalence of olfactory dysfunction was observed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic also emphasized the lack of therapeutic options for smell loss. Intranasal insulin administration has therefore been suggested to serve as potential treatment, influencing the regenerative capacities of the olfactory mucosa. This narrative review summarizes current knowledge on possible effects of intranasal insulin on the sense of smell.},
}

Humans
Administration, Intranasal
*Insulin/administration & dosage/pharmacology
*Olfaction Disorders/drug therapy
*Smell/drug effects
COVID-19/complications
Olfactory Mucosa/drug effects
*Hypoglycemic Agents/administration & dosage

@article {pmid37448181,
year = {2023},
author = {Cosentino, F and Verma, S and Ambery, P and Treppendahl, MB and van Eickels, M and Anker, SD and Cecchini, M and Fioretto, P and Groop, PH and Hess, D and Khunti, K and Lam, CSP and Richard-Lordereau, I and Lund, LH and McGreavy, P and Newsome, PN and Sattar, N and Solomon, S and Weidinger, F and Zannad, F and Zeiher, A},
title = {Cardiometabolic risk management: insights from a European Society of Cardiology Cardiovascular Round Table.},
journal = {European heart journal},
volume = {44},
number = {39},
pages = {4141-4156},
doi = {10.1093/eurheartj/ehad445},
pmid = {37448181},
issn = {1522-9645},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/therapy/epidemiology/complications ; Obesity/therapy/epidemiology/complications ; Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/therapy/epidemiology/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/therapy/epidemiology ; Europe ; Cardiometabolic Risk Factors ; Liver Diseases/therapy/epidemiology ; Cardiology ; },
abstract = {Metabolic comorbidities are common in patients with cardiorenal disease; they can cause atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), speed progression, and adversely affect prognosis. Common comorbidities are Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity/overweight, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and chronic liver disease. The cardiovascular system, kidneys, and liver are linked to many of the same risk factors (e.g. dyslipidaemia, hypertension, tobacco use, diabetes, and central/truncal obesity), and shared metabolic and functional abnormalities lead to damage throughout these organs via overlapping pathophysiological pathways. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the management of cardiometabolic diseases. Obesity, T2DM, CKD, and liver disease are associated with increased risk of poor outcomes of COVID-19 infection, and conversely, COVID-19 can lead to worsening of pre-existing ASCVD. The high rates of these comorbidities highlight the need to improve recognition and treatment of ASCVD in patients with obesity, insulin resistance or T2DM, chronic liver diseases, and CKD and equally, to improve recognition and treatment of these diseases in patients with ASCVD. Strategies to prevent and manage cardiometabolic diseases include lifestyle modification, pharmacotherapy, and surgery. There is a need for more programmes at the societal level to encourage a healthy diet and physical activity. Many pharmacotherapies offer mechanism-based approaches that can target multiple pathophysiological pathways across diseases. These include sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and combined glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide/glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist. Non-surgical and surgical weight loss strategies can improve cardiometabolic disorders in individuals living with obesity. New biomarkers under investigation may help in the early identification of individuals at risk and reveal new treatment targets.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/therapy/epidemiology/complications
Obesity/therapy/epidemiology/complications
Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/therapy/epidemiology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
*Cardiovascular Diseases/therapy/epidemiology
Europe
Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Liver Diseases/therapy/epidemiology
Cardiology

@article {pmid36999423,
year = {2024},
author = {Junqueira Ribeiro, MM},
title = {Computer-aided Drug Discovery Approaches in the Identification of Natural Products against SARS-CoV-2: A Review.},
journal = {Current computer-aided drug design},
volume = {20},
number = {4},
pages = {313-324},
doi = {10.2174/1573409919666230329090403},
pmid = {36999423},
issn = {1875-6697},
mesh = {*Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Drug Discovery/methods ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Molecular Docking Simulation ; *Computer-Aided Design ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic is raising a worldwide search for compounds that could act against the disease, mainly due to its mortality. With this objective, many researchers invested in the discovery and development of drugs of natural origin. To assist in this search, the potential of computational tools to reduce the time and cost of the entire process is known. Thus, this review aimed to identify how these tools have helped in the identification of natural products against SARS-CoV-2. For this purpose, a literature review was carried out with scientific articles with this proposal where it was possible to observe that different classes of primary and, mainly, secondary metabolites were evaluated against different molecular targets, mostly being enzymes and spike, using computational techniques, with emphasis on the use of molecular docking. However, it is noted that in silico evaluations still have much to contribute to the identification of an anti- SARS-CoV-2 substance, due to the vast chemical diversity of natural products, identification and use of different molecular targets and computational advancement.},
}

*Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Drug Discovery/methods
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Molecular Docking Simulation
*Computer-Aided Design
COVID-19

@article {pmid36698239,
year = {2024},
author = {Bjørklund, G and Lysiuk, R and Semenova, Y and Lenchyk, L and Dub, N and Doşa, MD and Hangan, T},
title = {Herbal Substances with Antiviral Effects: Features and Prospects for the Treatment of Viral Diseases with Emphasis on Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {31},
number = {4},
pages = {393-409},
doi = {10.2174/0929867330666230125121758},
pmid = {36698239},
issn = {1875-533X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Cytokines/metabolism/immunology ; Animals ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/immunology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Viral diseases have a significant impact on human health, and three novel coronaviruses (CoV) have emerged during the 21st century. In this review, we have emphasized the potential of herbal substances with antiviral effects. Our investigation focused on the features and prospects of viral disease treatment, with a particular emphasis on proinflammatory cytokines. We conducted comprehensive searches of various databases, including Science Direct, CABI Direct, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. Cytokine storm mechanisms play a crucial role in inducing a pro-inflammatory response by triggering the expression of cytokines and chemokines. This response leads to the recruitment of leukocytes and promotes antiviral effects, forming the first line of defense against viruses. Numerous studies have investigated the use of herbal medicine candidates as immunomodulators or antivirals. However, cytokine-storm-targeted therapy is recommended for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by SARS-CoV to survive severe pulmonary failure. Our reviews have demonstrated that herbal formulations could serve as alternative medicines and significantly reduce complicated viral infections. Furthermore, they hold promising potential as specific antiviral agents in experimental animal models.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
*Cytokines/metabolism/immunology
Animals
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/immunology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects

@article {pmid33619127,
year = {2022},
author = {Hodgson, L and Phillips, G and Saggers, RT and Sharma, S and Papadakis, M and Readhead, C and Cowie, CM and Massey, A and Weiler, R and Mathema, P and Larkin, J and Gordon, J and Maclean, J and Rossiter, M and Elliott, N and Hanson, J and Spencer, S and Jaques, R and Patricios, J},
title = {Medical care and first aid: an interassociation consensus framework for organised non-elite sport during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {British journal of sports medicine},
volume = {56},
number = {2},
pages = {68-79},
doi = {10.1136/bjsports-2020-103622},
pmid = {33619127},
issn = {1473-0480},
mesh = {Humans ; Consensus ; *COVID-19 ; First Aid ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The cessation of amateur and recreational sport has had significant implications globally, impacting economic, social and health facets of population well-being. As a result, there is pressure to resume sport at all levels. The ongoing prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 and subsequent 'second waves' require urgent best practice guidelines to be developed to return recreational (non-elite) sports as quickly as possible while prioritising the well-being of the participants and support staff.This guidance document describes the need for such advice and the process of collating available evidence. Expert opinion is integrated into this document to provide uniform and pragmatic recommendations, thereby optimising on-field and field-side safety for all involved persons, including coaches, first responders and participants.The nature of SARS-CoV-2 transmission means that the use of some procedures performed during emergency care and resuscitation could potentially be hazardous, necessitating the need for guidance on the use of personal protective equipment, the allocation of predetermined areas to manage potentially infective cases and the governance and audit of the process.},
}

Humans
Consensus
*COVID-19
First Aid
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41795913,
year = {2026},
author = {Thorpe, DW and Jones, LA and Martin, AM and Coleman, RA and Allman, C and Peterson, RA and Keating, DJ},
title = {The role of peripheral serotonin in SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, COVID-19 treatment and long COVID.},
journal = {Immunology and cell biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/imcb.70097},
pmid = {41795913},
issn = {1440-1711},
abstract = {Gastrointestinal symptoms have emerged as a common, but underappreciated, cause of morbidity in relation to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the COVID-19 pandemic. This manifests as a range of indications including diarrhea, anorexia, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In addition, the gastrointestinal tract may represent a route of viral entry via the epithelial cell layer lining the gut wall. This route of entry could be a significant component of disease pathogenesis, including effects on the nervous system via the gut-brain axis. In this review, we provide an assessment of the effects of COVID-19 on the gastrointestinal system, its involvement in disease severity and potential pathways for viral entry and infection in the gastrointestinal tract. We also examine evidence that gut-derived serotonin is affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection, how this may link to symptoms and disease pathogenesis and the potential link to the efficacy of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in reducing COVID-19 severity.},
}

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

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

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

@article {pmid37771583,
year = {2023},
author = {Ferrazzo, F and Leto, S and Malara, N},
title = {The 1926 novel, "One, no one, one hundred thousand", metaphorizes the potential danger when the immune system is exposed to a repetitive antigen stimulation.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1254853},
pmid = {37771583},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immune System/immunology ; *Antigens/immunology ; Animals ; Vaccines/immunology ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {In the worldwide scenario of infection prevention and control, the vaccine strategies are destined to increase rapidly. The availability of numerous vaccination options allows you to plan individually on how to boost your immune system. The immune system is a highly plastic cognitive dynamic network and performs its function by recognition of the uniqueness of the organism defined as self. The identification and attack of non-self antigens contribute to improving the strategies of self/non-self discrimination. However, repetitive antigen stimulation of the immune system may lead to several outcomes reassumed in three principal risks: (i) loss of the unique self codification (one), (ii) loss of own identifying (no one), and (iii) the increase of idiotype/anti-idiotype entities (one hundred thousand). Controlled production of idiotype/anti-idiotype antibodies protects against autoimmune diseases and immunodeficiency. The title of the famous novel by Nobel Prize for Literature winner Luigi Pirandello, "One, no one, one hundred thousand", recaps the three risks and the protagonist's journey exploring the complexities of personal identity, and warns to preserve the uniqueness of the organism. Taking inspiration from this metaphor, the authors propose to monitor antibody idiotype response for personalizing vaccine plans with the aim of preserving the uniqueness of the immune system and assuring safe protection.},
}

Humans
*Immune System/immunology
*Antigens/immunology
Animals
Vaccines/immunology
Vaccination

@article {pmid37770169,
year = {2023},
author = {Kumari, S and Singh, K and Singh, N and Khan, S and Kumar, A},
title = {Phage display and human disease detection.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {201},
number = {},
pages = {151-172},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.03.022},
pmid = {37770169},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology ; *Cell Surface Display Techniques/methods ; *Peptide Library ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Bacteriophages/genetics ; Neoplasms/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {Phage display is a significant and active molecular method and has continued crucial for investigative sector meanwhile its unearthing in 1985. This practice has numerous benefits: the association among physiology and genome, the massive variety of variant proteins showed in sole collection and the elasticity of collection that can be achieved. It suggests a diversity of stages for manipulating antigen attachment; yet, variety and steadiness of exhibited library are an alarm. Additional improvements, like accumulation of non-canonical amino acids, resulting in extension of ligands that can be recognized through collection, will support in expansion of the probable uses and possibilities of technology. Epidemic of COVID-19 had taken countless lives, and while indicative prescriptions were provided to diseased individuals, still no prevention was observed for the contamination. Phage demonstration has presented an in-depth understanding into protein connections included in pathogenesis. Phage display knowledge is developing as an influential, inexpensive, quick, and effectual method to grow novel mediators for the molecular imaging and analysis of cancer.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology
*Cell Surface Display Techniques/methods
*Peptide Library
SARS-CoV-2
Bacteriophages/genetics
Neoplasms/diagnosis

@article {pmid37587818,
year = {2023},
author = {Zhu, Y and Zhang, S and Wang, Z and Wang, Z and Zhu, S},
title = {ACE2 Receptor: A Potential Pharmacological Target in COVID-19.},
journal = {Current protein & peptide science},
volume = {24},
number = {9},
pages = {701-710},
doi = {10.2174/1389203724666230816092518},
pmid = {37587818},
issn = {1875-5550},
mesh = {Humans ; *Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/chemistry/genetics ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/metabolism/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {Studies have shown that injection of recombinant angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) significantly increased circulatory levels of ACE2 activity, reduced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, and effectively lowered blood pressure. In addition, recombinant ACE2 ameliorated albuminuria and might contribute to renal protection. Meanwhile, potential pharmacological treatments based on ACE2 are attracting increasing attention from scientists following a growing understanding of the role of the ACE2 receptor in the pathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In this article, we comprehensively summarized the literature on the structure, distribution, and function of ACE2. More importantly, we draw a conclusion that ACE2 decoys such as sACE2, hrsACE2 and ACE2-derived peptides, drugs down-regulating the ACE2 or TMPRSS2 gene expression, and the application of epigenetic modifiers and Traditional Chinese Medicine might represent promising approaches for the future of COVID-19 treatment.},
}

Humans
*Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism/chemistry/genetics
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/metabolism/virology
SARS-CoV-2
Animals
Serine Endopeptidases/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid37573588,
year = {2023},
author = {Liebell, D},
title = {Part 3: Perspectives on Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunction Pathophysiology, Management and Relevance to COVID-19: Rationale for Auricular Cranial Nerve Stimulation.},
journal = {Alternative therapies in health and medicine},
volume = {29},
number = {7},
pages = {52-61},
pmid = {37573588},
issn = {1078-6791},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Taste Disorders/therapy/physiopathology/etiology ; *Olfaction Disorders/therapy/physiopathology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Electric Stimulation Therapy/methods ; *Cranial Nerves ; *Acupuncture, Ear/methods ; },
abstract = {The rapid global emergence of distortions of the senses of smell and taste consequential to COVID-19 has provoked an unprecedented demand for investigation into treatments capable of addressing such medical phenomena. While the pandemic's principal focus rests on interventions intended to prevent the infection and its spread, much attention must be devoted to amelioration of these common symptomatic sequelae of it. The medical historical record reveals a shocking paucity of serious consideration of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction (OGD), hardly exclusive to SARS-CoV-2 infection (as discussed in Part 1 of this article series). To date, no treatment approach has ever delivered noteworthy clinical results for chronic cases. Numerous studies and reviews have addressed the epidemiology and hypotheses of OGD pathophysiology. Past and recent studies have produced vague findings and conclusions devoid of practical clinical applications for patients who continue to experience chronic sensory distortions and deficits. It is urgent that focused exploration be aggressively pursued for therapeutic and restorative modalities to ameliorate OGD across all medical disciplines, with no bias towards any one approach. It is imperative that approaches outside the pharmacological realm are studied; no effective medication of any merit exists. Thus, innovative and new approaches potentially capable of supporting natural self-regulation and restoration of healthy neurophysiology must be investigated, post-haste. Specifically, stimulation of cranial nerves via their auricular branches, by means of various modalities, may hold promise. A vast body of evidence exists to support its investigation. Its inclusion as an extremely safe and inexpensive approach to endeavor to resolve chronic OGD (not merely for post-COVID19 infection) is warranted. The 3-phase auricular acupuncture microsystem may be the most precise form of targeting and positively influencing specific neurological structures affected by COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Taste Disorders/therapy/physiopathology/etiology
*Olfaction Disorders/therapy/physiopathology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Electric Stimulation Therapy/methods
*Cranial Nerves
*Acupuncture, Ear/methods

@article {pmid37563314,
year = {2023},
author = {Wienhold, J and Kemper, I and Czaplik, M and Follmann, A and Rossaint, R and Derwall, M},
title = {[Teleconsultation for preoperative evaluation and informed consent-Are we ready for a paradigm shift?].},
journal = {Die Anaesthesiologie},
volume = {72},
number = {10},
pages = {697-702},
pmid = {37563314},
issn = {2731-6866},
mesh = {Humans ; *Informed Consent/legislation & jurisprudence ; *Preoperative Care/methods/trends ; *Remote Consultation/legislation & jurisprudence/trends ; Germany ; *Telemedicine/legislation & jurisprudence/trends ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {In Germany, approximately 17 million anaesthesiological procedures and, consequently, roughly the same number of preoperative consultations are conducted each year. So far, these have predominantly taken place in person. However, recent developments in technology, medical-legal aspects, and politics, combined with the catalyzing effect of the pandemic situation, have led to a significant boost in telemedicine. In the field of anaesthesia, there are new approaches to implementing telemedicine in the pre- and postoperative setting. This article focuses on the preoperative setting and presents general requirements for a teleconsultation as preoperative evaluation, the current state of technology, and medical-legal aspects.},
}

Humans
*Informed Consent/legislation & jurisprudence
*Preoperative Care/methods/trends
*Remote Consultation/legislation & jurisprudence/trends
Germany
*Telemedicine/legislation & jurisprudence/trends
COVID-19

@article {pmid37562996,
year = {2023},
author = {Hsu, CW and Lee, MC and Hua, YM and Lai, CC and Tang, HJ and Chao, CM},
title = {Inhaled corticosteroid for patients with COVID-19: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology, immunology, and infection = Wei mian yu gan ran za zhi},
volume = {56},
number = {5},
pages = {921-930},
doi = {10.1016/j.jmii.2023.07.008},
pmid = {37562996},
issn = {1995-9133},
mesh = {Humans ; Administration, Inhalation ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; *Adrenal Cortex Hormones/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/mortality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Treatment Outcome ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; Emergency Service, Hospital ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The efficacy of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in the treatment of patients with COVID-19 has been evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs), however, their findings are not consistent.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched to June 10, 2023. Only RCTs that investigated the clinical efficacy and safety of ICS for patients with COVID-19 were included.

RESULTS: Eleven RCTs were included. ICS users had significantly higher rate of symptom alleviation at day 14 than the control group (risk ratio [RR], 1.13; 95% CI, 1.04-1.23; I[2] = 42%). Additionally, no significant difference between the ICS users and the control group was observed in the composite outcome of urgent care, emergency department (ED) visit or hospitalization (RR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.08-2.48; I[2] = 85%) and hospitalization or death (RR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.64-1.12; I[2] = 0%). Finally, ICS user had a non-significantly lower risk of death at day 28 than the control group (0.63% vs 0.99%; RR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.43-1.56; I[2] = 0%).

CONCLUSIONS: Additional ICS use, particularly inhaled budesonide may help symptom relief in patients with COVID-19. However, ICS use did not help reduce the risk of urgent care, ED visit, hospitalization, or death.},
}

Humans
Administration, Inhalation
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
*Adrenal Cortex Hormones/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/mortality
SARS-CoV-2
Treatment Outcome
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
Emergency Service, Hospital

@article {pmid37524659,
year = {2023},
author = {Zohouri, M and Ghods, A and Roshan Zamir, M and Shokri, F and Ghaderi, A},
title = {Immune Profiling of SARS-CoV-2; What We Know and What We Don't Know.},
journal = {Iranian journal of allergy, asthma, and immunology},
volume = {22},
number = {3},
pages = {217-232},
doi = {10.18502/ijaai.v22i3.13050},
pmid = {37524659},
issn = {1735-5249},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), described as World War 3, is the current worldwide health challenge and nearly all countries have so far faced this disaster. There is still no cure because of the complicated pathogenesis, however, there are several studies on track investigating different aspects of the immune response to the virus. In this review, we will provide an overview of recent investigations that have analyzed immune cells in patients with COVID-19. We will then discuss the differences in immune profiles between healthy controls and various clinical presentations, including asymptomatic, mild, moderate, and severe cases.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid37524316,
year = {2023},
author = {Káňová, M and Petřeková, K and Borzenko, N and Rusková, K and Nytra, I and Dzurňáková, P},
title = {Bioelectrical impedance analysis to assess hydration in critically ill patients: A practical guide demonstrating its use on artificially ventilated COVID patients.},
journal = {Neuro endocrinology letters},
volume = {44},
number = {5},
pages = {271-282},
pmid = {37524316},
issn = {2354-4716},
mesh = {Humans ; *Electric Impedance ; *COVID-19/therapy/physiopathology ; Critical Illness/therapy ; *Respiration, Artificial ; Body Composition/physiology ; Body Water ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Organism Hydration Status/physiology ; },
abstract = {Determining body contents such as body water volume and body cell mass have significant uses in health and disease. Accumulation of extracellular water is particularly difficult to monitor using classical methods. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a simple, rapid, and noninvasive method, based on the principle that the flow of altering electrical current through a particular tissue differs depending on the content of water and electrolytes. It is thus able to measure body composition, including total body and extracellular water. Although bioimpedance holds up quite well compared to the gold standard that is dual-energy X-ray, it has certain limitations in critically ill patients. Specifically, it cannot distinguish between intravascular and interstitial volume in the extracellular compartment, and as it employs equations based on population measurement, compositions can diverge significantly with severe overhydration or in the morbidly obese. Bioelectrical vector analysis (BIVA) does not use the calculations and is part of the measurements in newer multifrequency bioimpedance devices. There is growing evidence of the adverse effect of overhydration in critically ill patients and bioimpedance can be used to monitor hydration, but there is no information on how to use this method for bedside monitoring in practice. In this review we present a practical approach to Phase angle and BIA/BIVA interpretations for monitoring hydration status and rapid loss of skeletal muscle mass and their clinical use, on a cohort of critical COVID patients under artificial lung ventilation.},
}

Humans
*Electric Impedance
*COVID-19/therapy/physiopathology
Critical Illness/therapy
*Respiration, Artificial
Body Composition/physiology
Body Water
SARS-CoV-2
*Organism Hydration Status/physiology

@article {pmid37012150,
year = {2023},
author = {Pariente, A},
title = {Use of psychotropic drugs in the elderly in France: Are we condemned to remain at high tide?.},
journal = {Therapie},
volume = {78},
number = {5},
pages = {565-573},
doi = {10.1016/j.therap.2023.03.006},
pmid = {37012150},
issn = {1958-5578},
mesh = {Humans ; France/epidemiology ; Aged ; *Psychotropic Drugs/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Aged, 80 and over ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use ; Benzodiazepines/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Drug Utilization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {Psychotropics are widely used drugs, especially in the elderly, especially in France. This, and the risks associated to their use, logically led to concerns that resulted in numerous studies, reports, and regulatory actions intending to limit this use. This review objective was to provide an overview of psychotropic use in elderly subjects in France for antipsychotics, antidepressants, and benzodiazepines and related drugs. The narrative review performed is structured in two parts. The first reminds the initial steps of psychotropic use monitoring in the general French population. The second provides information on psychotropic use in elderly in France using the latest open data released by the French Health Insurance system and processed using the dedicated DrugSurv tool developed within the DRUGS-SAFE® and DRUGS-SAFE® programs. This was completed examining the most recent studies regarding psychotropic use in elderly in France, whether they consisted in publications or reports. At least before the COVID-19 epidemic, decreases in psychotropic prevalence of use among the elderly in France could be observed, mostly for antipsychotics or benzodiazepines (e.g. antipsychotics, 2006-2013: 10.3% decrease and benzodiazepines 2012-2020: decrease from 30.6% to 24.7% in subjects aged ≥65). Psychotropic prevalence of use remained however very high overall (e.g. antidepressants, 2013: 13% in subjects aged 65-74 and 18% in aged ≥65), exceeding that of most other countries, with a significant proportion of inappropriate use (e.g. in 30% of benzodiazepine users, all ages) carrying a clearly identified risks for uncertain benefit. Initiatives have been multiplied at the national level to reduce psychotropic overuse in the elderly. The reported prevalences demonstrate their effectiveness is obviously insufficient. This limited effectiveness is not specific to psychotropics and might reside in a failure to create strong adherence to messages and recommendations. Other levels should be considered, especially regional, for interventions coupled with pharmacoepidemiologic monitoring allowing impact assessment.},
}

Humans
France/epidemiology
Aged
*Psychotropic Drugs/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Aged, 80 and over
COVID-19/epidemiology
Antipsychotic Agents/therapeutic use
Benzodiazepines/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Antidepressive Agents/therapeutic use
Drug Utilization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid36809942,
year = {2024},
author = {Bertollo, AG and Leite Galvan, AC and Dama Mingoti, ME and Dallagnol, C and Ignácio, ZM},
title = {Impact of COVID-19 on Anxiety and Depression - Biopsychosocial Factors.},
journal = {CNS & neurological disorders drug targets},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {122-133},
doi = {10.2174/1871527322666230210100048},
pmid = {36809942},
issn = {1996-3181},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology/complications ; *Anxiety/psychology/epidemiology/etiology ; *Depression/psychology/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Anxiety and depression are prevalent mental disorders around the world. The etiology of both diseases is multifactorial, involving biological and psychological issues. The COVID-19 pandemic settled in 2020 and culminated in several changes in the routine of individuals around the world, affecting mental health. People infected with COVID-19 are at greater risk of developing anxiety and depression, and individuals previously affected by these disorders have worsened the condition. In addition, individuals diagnosed with anxiety or depression before being affected by COVID-19 developed the severe illness at higher rates than individuals without mental disorders. This harmful cycle involves several mechanisms, including systemic hyper-inflammation and neuroinflammation. Furthermore, the context of the pandemic and some previous psychosocial factors can aggravate or trigger anxiety and depression. Disorders are also risks for a more severe picture of COVID-19. This review discusses research on a scientific basis, which brings evidence on biopsychosocial factors from COVID-19 and the context of the pandemic involved in anxiety and depression disorders.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology/complications
*Anxiety/psychology/epidemiology/etiology
*Depression/psychology/epidemiology

@article {pmid36656307,
year = {2023},
author = {Almeida Borges, J and Esquinas, AM},
title = {Biphasic cuirass ventilation in the escalation of non-invasive ventilation in COVID-19: Case report and review.},
journal = {Monaldi archives for chest disease = Archivio Monaldi per le malattie del torace},
volume = {93},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4081/monaldi.2023.2510},
pmid = {36656307},
issn = {2532-5264},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications ; *Noninvasive Ventilation/methods/instrumentation ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/methods ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {Ventilatory alternatives to prolong noninvasive ventilation in COVID-19 patients are attractive and poorly understood. New devices to deliver negative noninvasive ventilation as biphasic cuirass ventilation (BCV) have been introduced. BCV device assist in spontaneous breathing and support ventilation. We describe a case of the combination of BCV with high-flow nasal oxygenation (HFNO) in the treatment of a COVID-19 pneumonia patient that required prolonged NIV leading to face mask intolerance, ventilator dependency secondary to residual lung fibrosis and respiratory muscular weakness. BCV provides an efficient non-invasive approach in de-escalation of therapy and weaning of prolonged NIV.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications
*Noninvasive Ventilation/methods/instrumentation
Male
SARS-CoV-2
Oxygen Inhalation Therapy/methods
Middle Aged

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

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

@article {pmid41790528,
year = {2026},
author = {Gibbs, JL and Vollmer, B and Sheridan, CE and Pinkerton, K and Anthony, RT and Holm, S and Karr, C and Proctor, A and Swenson, A},
title = {Filtering facepiece respirator use among farm youth in the US: A review.},
journal = {Journal of occupational and environmental hygiene},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/15459624.2025.2589137},
pmid = {41790528},
issn = {1545-9632},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the critical need for protective equipment, such as filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs), particularly for youth. This systematic review addresses the significant gap in evidence-based guidance for FFR use among US farm youth, a group potentially exposed to diverse respiratory hazards. Current FFR designs and protocols for FFR use are largely adult-centric. Adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a multidisciplinary panel reviewed 31 publications published between 1990 and 2023. An independent working group of agricultural safety professionals also contributed by reviewing procedures and publications to check for bias during the review process. Key findings show that while FFRs appear physiologically tolerable by youth study subjects. Subjective discomfort and poor fit of adult-sized respirators remain major barriers to effective use and compliance. Studies highlight the critical need for youth-specific FFR designs based on detailed facial anthropometrics and the development of standardized fit-testing protocols tailored for growing youth. Furthermore, evidence-based guidance on ethical pediatric medical evaluations for respirator use and targeted respiratory health education are urgently needed. This review emphasizes that a concerted effort from manufacturers, researchers, and regulatory bodies is essential to ensure youth on farms can safely use respiratory protection.},
}

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

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

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

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

REGISTRATION: PROSPERO: CRD420251070123.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

Humans
COVID-19
*Public Health Practice/ethics
*Communicable Diseases
SARS-CoV-2
*Public Health/education/ethics
*Education, Graduate/organization & administration

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

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

@article {pmid41786461,
year = {2026},
author = {Caffrey, M and Paprotny, I and Smith, R},
title = {Challenges and progress toward real-time detection of airborne viral pathogens.},
journal = {Critical reviews in biotechnology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/07388551.2026.2628597},
pmid = {41786461},
issn = {1549-7801},
abstract = {Airborne viruses pose significant health, social and economic threats to humans and animals. Moreover, zoonotic transfer of viruses among animals and humans is a concern. Detection methods to identify viruses present in air before causing outbreaks in humans or agricultural animals is highly desirable. In this review we discuss airborne viruses that currently threaten humans and the agricultural industry and the possibility of emerging and reemerging viruses. Examples of airborne viruses threatening human health include influenza and SARS-CoV2; examples of airborne viruses threatening agricultural animals include: influenza, Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV), Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV), and Foot and Mouth Disease virus (FMDV). In addition, we discuss the potential of real-time detection of airborne viruses with a focus on current models, desired properties, current techniques, challenges, and progress to date. Finally, we discuss possible mitigation strategies and future opportunities.},
}

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

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

Humans
Nepal/ethnology
*Transients and Migrants/psychology
*Mental Health
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41540891,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, IC and Chen, YH and Phanumartwiwath, A},
title = {Community-Based Care Interventions for Frail Older Adults: A Scoping Review of Multidimensional Strategies Across Pandemic Eras.},
journal = {Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.)},
volume = {43},
number = {2},
pages = {511-520},
doi = {10.1111/phn.70071},
pmid = {41540891},
issn = {1525-1446},
mesh = {Humans ; *Frail Elderly/statistics & numerical data ; Aged ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; *Community Health Services/methods ; Aged, 80 and over ; Telemedicine ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This scoping review evaluates the effectiveness of community-based interventions addressing frailty's multidimensional impacts (physical, nutritional, and psychosocial) in older adults, emphasizing nurses' roles in crisis-responsive care during pandemics.

DESIGN: A scoping review was conducted using Arksey & O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.

SAMPLE: Thirty-one studies were from 2019 to 2023, sourced from PubMed and Scopus, spanning five continents.

MEASUREMENTS: Study quality was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale; outcomes included frailty reduction and quality-of-life metrics.

INTERVENTION: Interventions included physical rehabilitation (e.g., Otago Exercise Program), nutritional optimization, psychosocial support, technology-enhanced models (e.g., telemedicine), and social engagement.

RESULTS: Multicomponent interventions outperformed single-domain approaches, improving gait speed, reducing frailty progression, and mitigating depression. Telemedicine maintained 78% care continuity during lockdowns. Asian family-centered models excelled, but 84% of evidence came from high-income countries, highlighting low- and middle-income country (LMIC) gaps.

CONCLUSIONS: Gerontological nurses are pivotal in delivering culturally adapted care by coordinating interprofessional home-based teams, integrating gerotechnology in resource-limited settings, and advocating for policy reforms to bridge urban-rural disparities. These findings underscore nursing's role in equitable, resilient frailty management.},
}

Humans
*Frail Elderly/statistics & numerical data
Aged
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Pandemics
*Community Health Services/methods
Aged, 80 and over
Telemedicine
Quality of Life

@article {pmid40409294,
year = {2026},
author = {Franchini, M and Focosi, D and Mannucci, PM},
title = {Coagulation Abnormalities Associated with COVID-19: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis},
volume = {52},
number = {3},
pages = {327-334},
doi = {10.1055/a-2619-2485},
pmid = {40409294},
issn = {1098-9064},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/blood ; *Blood Coagulation Disorders/etiology/blood/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Blood Coagulation ; Thrombophilia/etiology/blood ; Anticoagulants/therapeutic use ; Hemorrhage/etiology/blood ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a viral respiratory illness caused by severe acute respiratory disease coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2), has caused in the last 5 years a global pandemic of unprecedented scale in the modern era. Other than the typical respiratory symptoms, patients suffering from moderate to severe COVID-19 are at risk of developing a peculiar systemic coagulopathy, known as COVID-19-associated coagulopathy. In addition to a predominantly hypercoagulable state, COVID-19 patients may experience hemorrhagic complications triggered by the viral infection. The current knowledge on the underlying molecular mechanisms, the laboratory and clinical characteristics of coagulation abnormalities associated with COVID-19, along with their management, will be summarized in this narrative review.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/blood
*Blood Coagulation Disorders/etiology/blood/virology
*SARS-CoV-2
*Blood Coagulation
Thrombophilia/etiology/blood
Anticoagulants/therapeutic use
Hemorrhage/etiology/blood

@article {pmid40334699,
year = {2026},
author = {Marietta, M and Coluccio, V and Cordella, S and Luppi, M},
title = {Impact of Viral Infections on the Hemostatic System.},
journal = {Seminars in thrombosis and hemostasis},
volume = {52},
number = {3},
pages = {315-326},
doi = {10.1055/a-2601-9302},
pmid = {40334699},
issn = {1098-9064},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood/immunology/complications ; *Hemostasis ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Cytokines ; Thrombosis/blood ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/blood/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/blood/immunology ; *Hemorrhagic Fevers, Viral/blood/immunology ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought renewed attention to the significant but often overlooked impact of viral infections on the hemostatic system. This review explores the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the interaction between viruses and hemostasis, directly through viral components or immune-mediated processes. Viruses are recognized as pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) on innate immune cells such as neutrophils, monocytes, and platelets. This recognition triggers immune responses, including the production of type I interferons (IFN-α and IFN-β) and proinflammatory cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which recruit immune cells and induce pyroptotic cell death. Inflammatory cytokines contribute to endothelial dysfunction and coagulation activation, interacting with platelets, neutrophils, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and the kallikrein-kinin system. Hyperactivation of the cytokine system, known as the "cytokine storm," correlates with disease severity. Common features of viral infections include platelet activation and endotheliitis, leading to thrombocytopenia and microvascular thrombosis. Interestingly, similar pathogenic mechanisms in COVID-19 and viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) result in contrasting clinical manifestations. While COVID-19 predominantly induces a thrombotic response characterized by endothelial damage, platelet hyperactivity, and complement activation, VHFs typically lead to hemorrhagic complications due to thrombocytopenia, consumptive coagulopathy, and vascular injury. These differences are influenced by the timing and location of coagulation activation, as well as the dynamics of immune responses. In COVID-19, coagulation initially occurs in the lungs, followed by systemic thrombotic phases, whereas VHFs rapidly progress to consumptive coagulopathy with hemorrhage, compounded by immune suppression.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood/immunology/complications
*Hemostasis
*SARS-CoV-2
Cytokines
Thrombosis/blood
Cytokine Release Syndrome/blood/immunology
*Virus Diseases/blood/immunology
*Hemorrhagic Fevers, Viral/blood/immunology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid40738304,
year = {2026},
author = {Ishikawa, T and Kagami, H and Ishikawa, M and Oyama, K},
title = {Parent artery occlusion for ruptured dissecting aneurysm of anterior inferior cerebellar artery: Case report and literature review.},
journal = {Neurocirugia},
volume = {37},
number = {2},
pages = {500712},
doi = {10.1016/j.neucie.2025.500712},
pmid = {40738304},
issn = {2529-8496},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Aged ; *Aortic Dissection/diagnostic imaging/complications/therapy/surgery ; *Aneurysm, Ruptured/therapy/diagnostic imaging/surgery/complications ; *Embolization, Therapeutic/methods ; *Subarachnoid Hemorrhage/etiology/diagnostic imaging/surgery/therapy ; *Cerebellum/blood supply ; *Intracranial Aneurysm/diagnostic imaging/therapy/surgery/complications ; Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Hydrocephalus/surgery/etiology ; Endovascular Procedures/methods ; },
abstract = {Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) caused by a dissecting aneurysm of the anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) is rare. Partial coil embolization of the AICA may be an effective treatment. A 65-year-old woman presented at the emergency room with headache and vomiting for the past five days, after contracting coronavirus disease (COVID)-19. Computed tomography (CT) revealed SAH and intraventricular hemorrhage, and the patient was diagnosed with a dissecting aneurysm of the AICA. The patient underwent endovascular surgery, and the AICA was partially occluded using coiling, with no subsequent hearing disturbance, cranial nerve palsy, or infarction. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery was performed for hydrocephalus at 7 weeks after SAH. The patient was discharged from hospital with no neurological deficit. We reported a rare case of ruptured AICA dissecting aneurysm, which was treated by partial coil embolization without neurological deficit or infarction.},
}

Humans
Female
Aged
*Aortic Dissection/diagnostic imaging/complications/therapy/surgery
*Aneurysm, Ruptured/therapy/diagnostic imaging/surgery/complications
*Embolization, Therapeutic/methods
*Subarachnoid Hemorrhage/etiology/diagnostic imaging/surgery/therapy
*Cerebellum/blood supply
*Intracranial Aneurysm/diagnostic imaging/therapy/surgery/complications
Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Hydrocephalus/surgery/etiology
Endovascular Procedures/methods

@article {pmid39865810,
year = {2026},
author = {Qiao, X and Liu, D and Pan, W and He, M and Meng, F},
title = {Research Progress of Microneedles in Vaccine Delivery.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {501-522},
pmid = {39865810},
issn = {1875-533X},
support = {ZR2022QB149//Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province, China/ ; XM2023016//Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Needles ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Administration, Cutaneous ; Animals ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; *Drug Delivery Systems/instrumentation/methods ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccination/methods/instrumentation ; },
abstract = {Large-scale infectious diseases have become a significant threat to human health and safety. The successful invention of vaccines is the most powerful means for preventing infectious diseases and has greatly improved global human health. Even during the pandemic of COVID-19, which has affected the world, vaccines have played an irreplaceable role. Microneedles (MNs) punctured the stratum corneum and formed microchannels in the skin allowing the vaccine to be efficiently recognized by the abundant antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in the skin to form specific immunity. Compared with traditional vaccination methods, MN transdermal immunization has the advantages of painlessness, easy storage, and efficient immune response. In this review, we summarize the types of vaccines, types of MNs, research progress and clinical research status of MN-based vaccines. We also cover various technologies for vaccine encapsulation, stable delivery of MN vaccines, and a wide range of potential clinical applications. We also outline the future development prospects of the MN system onboard to achieve better clinical benefits.},
}

Humans
*Needles
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Vaccines/administration & dosage
Administration, Cutaneous
Animals
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
*Drug Delivery Systems/instrumentation/methods
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccination/methods/instrumentation

@article {pmid41782288,
year = {2026},
author = {Ramklass, SS and Zhandire, T and Gordon, M},
title = {Pandemic preparedness and response among global healthcare workers using an interprofessional health practice framework: a scoping review protocol.},
journal = {Journal of interprofessional care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-8},
doi = {10.1080/13561820.2026.2640469},
pmid = {41782288},
issn = {1469-9567},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant gaps in healthcare systems' preparedness and response capabilities including workforce coordination and collaborative practice. Although pandemic preparedness is often framed in terms of infrastructure and policy, the pandemic highlighted that health system responsiveness depends on how healthcare workers are educated and trained to collaborate, adapt, and make decisions. Healthcare workers operate within volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environments, necessitating new approaches to education and practice. In this scoping review we will examine how health professional education and education-linked practice initiatives adapted to the VUCA conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, with particular focus on interprofessional education and collaborative practice (IPECP) as a mechanism for strengthening pandemic response. Following JBI scoping review methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, seven electronic databases will be searched for literature published between January 2022 and 2025. Empirical studies examining educational adaptations and practice-embedded interprofessional strategies implemented during COVID-19 will be included. Two independent reviewers will conduct screening and data extraction, with findings synthesized narratively. IPECP and VUCA frameworks provide an analytical lens for examining identifying of educational and practice adaptations associated with coordinated healthcare responses. Findings are intended to enforce workforce resilience and future preparedness efforts. This protocol has been registered on OSF doi: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/A6F3D.},
}

@article {pmid41782074,
year = {2026},
author = {Gordon, M and Ramirez, P},
title = {The role of corticosteroids in severe viral pneumonia: lessons from COVID-19 and influenza.},
journal = {Pneumonia (Nathan Qld.)},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41782074},
issn = {2200-6133},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Corticosteroids have long been used as immunomodulatory agents in viral respiratory infections, but their role in influenza and COVID-19 remains controversial. While both diseases share overlapping pathogenic mechanisms involving hyperinflammation and immune dysregulation, clinical evidence suggests divergent outcomes in response to corticosteroid therapy.

OBJECTIVE: This review critically examines the evidence regarding corticosteroid use in influenza and COVID-19, focusing on their impact on mortality, disease progression, and secondary infections.

METHODS: A narrative review was conducted including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and major observational studies published between 2000 and 2025. Data were analyzed comparatively for influenza (seasonal and pandemic strains) and SARS-CoV-2 infection.

RESULTS: In influenza, most studies associate corticosteroid administration—particularly at high doses or prolonged courses—with increased mortality, delayed viral clearance, and higher rates of secondary bacterial pneumonia. Conversely, in COVID-19, randomized trials such as RECOVERY demonstrated that low-to-moderate doses of dexamethasone significantly reduce mortality in patients requiring oxygen or mechanical ventilation, without clear benefit in mild disease. These opposing outcomes highlight the importance of timing, dosing, and patient selection, reflecting distinct immunopathological trajectories between the two infections.

CONCLUSIONS: Corticosteroid therapy exerts context-dependent effects in viral pneumonia. While detrimental in most cases of influenza, it is beneficial in severe COVID-19 when guided by systemic inflammation. Future strategies should focus on personalized and real-time immune monitoring to tailor immunomodulatory interventions to each patient’s inflammatory and virological status.},
}

@article {pmid41781975,
year = {2026},
author = {Mótyán, JA and Golda, M and Mahdi, M and Nashed, NT and Louis, JM and Tőzsér, J},
title = {Molecular mechanisms of protease precursor autoprocessing of RNA viruses: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12985-026-03119-z},
pmid = {41781975},
issn = {1743-422X},
abstract = {Many viruses express their proteins in the form of large polyproteins comprising structural and non-structural (e.g. enzymatic) units that are released from the precursor through ordered proteolysis. Proteolytic processing of polyproteins is an indispensable regulatory step for virus maturation and replication that is carried out by the virus-encoded and/or cellular proteases. The activity of a viral protease that is expressed as a part of a polyprotein is controlled in part by the self-cleavage (autoprocessing) from the precursor. The mechanism of protease precursor processing has been established at the molecular level for various RNA virus proteases, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Both viral protease precursors are processed via intra- (in cis) and intermolecular (in trans) cleavages at the N- and C-termini, respectively, yielding the mature enzyme. The remarkably similar activation mechanisms of HIV and SARS-CoV-2 PRs suggest that other viral proteases are activated similarly. In this review, we provide a detailed overview on the protease precursor autoprocessing mechanism of HIV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 proteases and compare those to the activation mechanism of non-viral proteases from their zymogens. Also, we review the activation mechanism of other ss(+)RNA viruses that utilize the polyprotein pathway for their replication. Based on such comparison, it appears that the protease activation mechanisms of most enveloped ss(+)RNA viruses from their precursors share many common features, although they do not correlate directly with the evolutionary relationships, the presence or absence of viral envelope or the catalytic mechanism of the viral protease.},
}

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

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Pandemics

@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},
doi = {10.4102/phcfm.v18i1.5110},
pmid = {41773392},
issn = {2071-2936},
mesh = {Humans ; *Malaria/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Africa, Southern/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; },
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
*Malaria/prevention & control/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Africa, Southern/epidemiology
Pandemics

@article {pmid41656465,
year = {2025},
author = {Kazachinskaia, EI and Zibareva, LN and Kononova, YV and Shestopalov, AM and Voevoda, MI and Chepurnov, AA},
title = {Antiviral Activity of Plant-Based Preparations against SARS-CoV-2 and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 In Vitro: A Review of Experimental Findings.},
journal = {Bulletin of experimental biology and medicine},
volume = {180},
number = {1},
pages = {1-10},
pmid = {41656465},
issn = {1573-8221},
mesh = {*Herpesvirus 2, Human/drug effects ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19/virology ; Plant Leaves/chemistry ; Vero Cells ; },
abstract = {We reviewed published data on the efficacy of plant-derived preparations, including the authors' original in vitro findings on the antiviral activity of aqueous and dry ethanol extracts against the RNA virus SARS-CoV-2 and the DNA virus herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The study evaluates the activity of an aqueous extract prepared from fermented leaves of Epilobium angustifolium L., as well as dry ethanol extracts obtained from clove spice (Syzygium aromaticum L.), black and green tea (Camellia sinensis L.), leaves of Rhaponticum carthamoides, the basidiomycete fungus chaga (Inonotus obliquus (Ach. ex Pers.) Pil.), and four lichen species: Cetraria islandica L., Usnea L., Pseudevernia furfuracea L., and Cladonia stellaris Opiz. HPLC analysis of several dry ethanol extracts suggests that their antiviral activity may be attributed to polyphenolic compounds and ecdysteroids. These findings may serve as a basis both for the identification of individual bioactive plant-derived compounds and for the development of cost-effective therapeutic or prophylactic agents against COVID-19 and for reducing the recurrence rate of chronic genital herpes.},
}

*Herpesvirus 2, Human/drug effects
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry
Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19/virology
Plant Leaves/chemistry
Vero Cells

@article {pmid41622196,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, S and Zhang, Y and Ma, J and Chen, L and Wang, Y},
title = {Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes in thymoma- related aplastic anemia: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {Journal of cardiothoracic surgery},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41622196},
issn = {1749-8090},
mesh = {Humans ; *Thymoma/complications/surgery/diagnosis ; *Anemia, Aplastic/etiology/therapy/diagnosis ; Female ; Middle Aged ; *Thymus Neoplasms/complications/surgery/diagnosis ; *Thymectomy/adverse effects ; COVID-19/complications ; Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation ; Treatment Outcome ; Fatal Outcome ; Myasthenia Gravis ; },
abstract = {Thymoma-related aplastic anemia is a rare entity. This article retrospectively analyzes the clinical features and treatment course of a patient who developed aplastic anemia (AA) post-thymectomy, complemented by a systematic review of relevant literature. A 47-year-old female was diagnosed with thymoma, myasthenia gravis (MG), and severe AA (SAA). SAA onset occurred two weeks after total thymectomy, and the patient ultimately succumbed to concurrent COVID-19 infection following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). We also reviewed the clinical characteristics, treatment strategies, and prognosis of 47 thymoma-related aplastic anemia patients reported in the literature. AA may present prior to thymoma diagnosis, concurrently with thymoma, or post-thymectomy. Some patients progress to pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) and/or megakaryocytic aplasia, often following prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Similar to Good syndrome and PRCA, thymectomy fails to alleviate AA, and spontaneous improvement is rare. Treatment options for thymoma-related aplastic anemia include cyclosporine A (CsA) monotherapy, CsA combined with glucocorticoids, thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO-RAs), and allo-HSCT. However, regimens of cyclophosphamide plus methylprednisolone and glucocorticoid monotherapy show limited efficacy. The overall one-year mortality rate is alarmingly high at 29.8%. For young thymoma-related aplastic anemia patients with SAA and suitable donors, allo-HSCT remains the preferred treatment.},
}

Humans
*Thymoma/complications/surgery/diagnosis
*Anemia, Aplastic/etiology/therapy/diagnosis
Female
Middle Aged
*Thymus Neoplasms/complications/surgery/diagnosis
*Thymectomy/adverse effects
COVID-19/complications
Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Treatment Outcome
Fatal Outcome
Myasthenia Gravis

@article {pmid41379524,
year = {2026},
author = {Colonna, C and Monzani, NA and Moiraghi, A and Tibiletti, A and Aromolo, IF and Cavalli, R},
title = {Pityriasis rubra pilaris triggered by vaccination.},
journal = {Italian journal of dermatology and venereology},
volume = {161},
number = {1},
pages = {65-70},
doi = {10.23736/S2784-8671.25.08304-5},
pmid = {41379524},
issn = {2784-8450},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris/etiology/chemically induced ; Male ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Adult ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Child ; Adolescent ; Aged, 80 and over ; Infant ; Female ; Child, Preschool ; Young Adult ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare inflammatory papulo-squamous skin disease. To date, the exact etiopathogenesis of PRP is unknown; although the most accepted triggers are viral or bacterial infections, few cases after vaccination have been reported as well.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Our aim is to conduct a systematic review of cases of PRP triggered by vaccination. The PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for articles concerning PRP post-vaccination, published between January 2000 and June 2024. We also added a previously unpublished case that came to our attention.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Twenty-three articles were included, and 30 cases have been identified. The majority of patients were male (20/30, 66.6%). The median age of onset was 55 years (min 17 months-max 85 years). Most patients (27/30, 90%) were adults vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2, of whom 14/27 (51.9%) received mRNA-based vaccines (9 Comirnaty/Pfizer and 5 Spikevax/Moderna). The three pediatric cases had been vaccinated against Measles-Mumps-Rubella (2 cases) and intramuscular diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine plus oral poliovirus. The temporal relationship between vaccination and PRP onset varied (median 10 days post-vaccination; min 2-max 30). PRP occurred both after the first dose (14/30, 46.6%) and at subsequent doses of the vaccine. The majority of patients re-exposed to new doses (6/9, 66%) experienced clinical exacerbation. Post-vaccination PRP responds well to both traditional and biologic treatments, with only 4/30 (13.3%) showing no resolution.

CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, PRP post-vaccination is rare and likely underdiagnosed, but recognizing the association is important to evaluate any new exposures to the trigger. A thorough patient history, including recent vaccinations, is crucial.},
}

Humans
*Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris/etiology/chemically induced
Male
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Adult
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Middle Aged
Aged
Child
Adolescent
Aged, 80 and over
Infant
Female
Child, Preschool
Young Adult

@article {pmid41361115,
year = {2026},
author = {Glossmann, HH},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines: unresolved mechanisms of myocardial damage.},
journal = {Archives of toxicology},
volume = {100},
number = {3},
pages = {1177-1180},
pmid = {41361115},
issn = {1432-0738},
mesh = {Animals ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Myocarditis/chemically induced/immunology ; Mice ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Nanoparticles ; Vaccines, Synthetic/adverse effects ; Toll-Like Receptor 4/metabolism ; Male ; mRNA Vaccines ; Myocardium/pathology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics ; *Pericarditis/chemically induced ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Myopericarditis requiring emergency care or hospitalization after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination occurs most frequently in adolescent males. In the acute phase, vaccine-associated heart inflammation is characterized by elevated cardiac biomarkers (troponin, B-type natriuretic peptide), electrocardiographic abnormalities, abnormal cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, elevated interleukins and chemokines, expansion of activated cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and monocyte dysregulation. This adverse event may occur one or two days after the first injection but is far more frequent after the second, suggesting contributions from trained innate immunity and/or cumulative dose effects. A recent mouse study in this journal reported dramatic increases in both cardiac biomarkers two days after the second dose of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) containing mRNA coding for the Omicron spike, despite absence of histopathological heart damage at 14 days-even after intravenous administration. Here, these findings are discussed in the context of human observations and additional mouse experiments. I propose that endothelial cells (ECs) of the myocardial microvasculature are a preferred off-target for LNPs because of the unique features of myocardial anatomy and perfusion. Endothelial injury via toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation by ionizable lipids and/or endosomal rupture may represent an initiating step ("endothelitis"), followed by recognition of spike-derived peptides presented by ECs to activated monocytes and T lymphocytes. The potential role of the Wuhan spike protein in establishing a trained innate immunity phenotype, and species differences in TLR sensitivity, are considered.},
}

Animals
Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Myocarditis/chemically induced/immunology
Mice
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Nanoparticles
Vaccines, Synthetic/adverse effects
Toll-Like Receptor 4/metabolism
Male
mRNA Vaccines
Myocardium/pathology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics
*Pericarditis/chemically induced
Liposomes

@article {pmid40838732,
year = {2026},
author = {Ognibene, A and Lippi, G},
title = {Global-of-care testing (GOCT): emerging challenges for laboratory medicine network.},
journal = {Diagnosis (Berlin, Germany)},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {40-45},
pmid = {40838732},
issn = {2194-802X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Global Health ; COVID-19 Testing ; Pandemics ; *Laboratories, Clinical/organization & administration ; International Cooperation ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has placed laboratory medicine at the forefront of public health and clinical care. Larger use of social media and official communication platforms raised public awareness of laboratory science, driving demand for rapid, accurate diagnostic information and shifting expectations around access and interpretation of testing. Laboratory medicine, rooted in accuracy, precision, reproducibility and clinical relevance, has advanced from basic diagnostics to sophisticated molecular and data-driven platforms. Yet, literature and policy on coordinated international laboratory networks, especially for surveillance and emergency response, remain limited. This opinion paper introduces the concept of "global-of-care testing", encompassing globally connected diagnostic infrastructures with regional adaptability, robust governance, and sustained investment in technology and workforce. Laboratory network design must account for geography and population density in allocating facilities. Integrated systems require automation capable of interfacing across multiple platforms (preanalytical processing, clinical chemistry, immunochemistry, hematology, coagulation, urinalysis and even molecular diagnostics and mass spectrometry) to optimize workflows, support real-time decision-making, facilitate remote collaboration and maintain rigorous quality assurance. A decentralized yet interconnected model allows peripheral laboratories to actively participate in clinical decision-making through shared protocols, telemedicine and integrated data, ultimately reducing turnaround times, improving responsiveness and enhancing patient-centred care. Embedding Value-Based Laboratory Medicine (VBLM) within this framework ensures that diagnostics are aligned with health outcomes in a multidisciplinary ecosystem organized around patient needs. The future of laboratory medicine will hence depend on evidence-based reforms that integrate technology, reorganize systems and reinforce governance for promoting quality, equitable access and sustainable precision healthcare.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Global Health
COVID-19 Testing
Pandemics
*Laboratories, Clinical/organization & administration
International Cooperation

@article {pmid40735994,
year = {2026},
author = {Bjørklund, G and Antonyak, H and Lysiuk, R and Dzhura, N and Gurgas, L and Hangan, T},
title = {The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine in COVID-19 Treatment: Integrating Ancient Wisdom with Modern Medicine.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {33},
number = {2},
pages = {255-283},
pmid = {40735994},
issn = {1875-533X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; COVID-19 ; Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has prompted a global health crisis, necessitating diverse therapeutic strategies. This review explores the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with conventional medicine in managing COVID-19, highlighting the potential synergistic effects of combining these approaches. TCM formulations such as Lian Hua Qing Wen capsules and Shu Feng Jie Du capsules have shown promise in alleviating symptoms and enhancing recovery rates in COVID-19 patients through their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Key components such as glycyrrhizin, quercetin, and resveratrol, along with fungal, animal, and mineral preparations, contribute to the therapeutic efficacy of TCM. Some individual polyphenolics, found in TCM formulations, significantly contribute to anti-SARSCoV- 2 effect: their EC50 values range from 4.5 μmol/L (baicalein) to 83.4 μmol/L (quercetin), depending on the types of cells used and the treatment period. The review emphasizes the importance of rigorous scientific research to validate the effectiveness and safety of TCM treatments and the need for standardized protocols to ensure their consistent use. The quality and safety of Chinese herbal products still pose significant challenges that should be considered during their production and use. The integration of TCM with conventional medical practices offers a holistic approach to patient care, addressing the multifaceted pathophysiology of COVID-19 and enhancing overall treatment outcomes. Continued international collaborations and interdisciplinary research are essential to bridge the gap between traditional and modern medicine, fostering a more inclusive healthcare system.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional/methods
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
COVID-19
Anti-Inflammatory Agents/therapeutic use
Animals

@article {pmid40691108,
year = {2026},
author = {Ma, H and Chen, YY and Shih, WL and Chen, YC and Chen, TJ and Fang, CT},
title = {Effectiveness of the monovalent XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccines: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology, immunology, and infection = Wei mian yu gan ran za zhi},
volume = {59},
number = {2},
pages = {152-166},
doi = {10.1016/j.jmii.2025.07.002},
pmid = {40691108},
issn = {1995-9133},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Adult ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains a public health concern even after its pandemic status officially ended on May 5, 2023, when XBB became the globally predominant SARS-CoV-2 variant. Amid population immunity, the benefit of the monovalent XBB.1.5 vaccines remains uncertain.

METHODS: This systematic review searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials through November 30, 2024, for studies evaluating the effectiveness of XBB.1.5 vaccines in adults during the 2023-2024 season. Meta-analyses were conducted using a random-effects model (PROSPERO registration: CRD42024513730).

RESULTS: Twenty-one eligible studies, with a total of 53,396,781 participants, were included. Vaccine effectiveness (VE) in the first month post-vaccination was 52.9 % (95 % CI: 47.6 %-57.6 %) against SARS-CoV-2 infection, 64.4 % (95 % CI: 59.3 %-68.9 %) against COVID-19-related hospitalization, and 77.3 % (95 % CI: 67.1 %-84.3 %) against COVID-19-related death. However, by the fifth month, VE declined to 26.7 %, 52.3 %, and 69.4 %, respectively. Notably, against the JN.1 variant that replaced XBB in December 2023, VE against infection, hospitalization, and death dropped significantly by 47 % (from 53.7 % to 28.3 %), 32 % (from 67.8 % to 46.2 %), and 26 % (from 77.3 % to 57.1 %), respectively. VE against hospitalization in individuals aged >60 years was not inferior to that in those aged <60 years (57.2 % versus 49.2 %; subgroup difference, p = 0.24).

CONCLUSION: XBB.1.5 vaccines provided substantial protection against severe COVID-19 outcomes in the 2023-2024 season prior to the emergence of the JN.1 variant. These findings underscore the need for updated COVID-19 vaccinations to maintain protection against evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*Vaccine Efficacy
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Adult
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid40631953,
year = {2026},
author = {Cui, Z and Luo, Y and Yi, Y and Guo, X and Liu, Y and Wang, X and Liu, X},
title = {Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome potentially associated with COVID-19 vaccination: a case report and literature review.},
journal = {Immunological medicine},
volume = {49},
number = {1},
pages = {88-101},
doi = {10.1080/25785826.2025.2528331},
pmid = {40631953},
issn = {2578-5826},
mesh = {Humans ; *Uveomeningoencephalitic Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Male ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Young Adult ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; Fluorescein Angiography ; Tomography, Optical Coherence ; Prednisone/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {To investigate the potential association between COVID-19 vaccination and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) syndrome, offering novel insights for the diagnosis and management of vaccine-related ocular disorders. A case report combined with a literature review was conducted. A 19-year-old male developing VKH after receiving the second dose of an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine was analyzed. Clinical features, treatment outcomes (glucocorticoid therapy with 2-year follow-up), and literature-based comparisons were evaluated. PubMed-indexed cases of vaccine-associated VKH were systematically reviewed, and causality was assessed using the Naranjo Adverse Drug Reaction Probability Scale. The patient presented with bilateral blurred vision 14 days post-vaccination, diagnosed as VKH with retinal neuroepithelial detachment via fluorescein angiography (FFA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Oral prednisone (starting at 60 mg/day, tapered gradually)restored visual acuity to near-normal levels (OD: 20/40, OS: 20/33), consistent with the patient's reported baseline vision. Within 8 weeks, with no recurrence during follow-up. Literature analysis revealed vaccine-associated VKH symptoms typically emerged at a median of 8 days post-vaccination, aligning with the WHO's 40-day adverse event monitoring window. A Naranjo score of 4 indicated a probable vaccine-triggered immune response. COVID-19 vaccines may induce VKH via immune dysregulation mechanisms, particularly in genetically predisposed individuals. Although causality remains unconfirmed, clinicians should maintain vigilance for acute bilateral uveitis post-vaccination. Glucocorticoid therapy demonstrates efficacy in symptom resolution and relapse prevention. Enhanced active surveillance and mechanistic studies on vaccine-related ocular adverse events are warranted.},
}

Humans
*Uveomeningoencephalitic Syndrome/etiology/drug therapy/diagnosis
Male
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Young Adult
*COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
Fluorescein Angiography
Tomography, Optical Coherence
Prednisone/therapeutic use

@article {pmid40521738,
year = {2026},
author = {Ullah, MF},
title = {Anthropogenic influence, microbes and zoonotic diseases: Ecological imbalance, diverse impact and the One Health approach.},
journal = {Journal of vector borne diseases},
volume = {63},
number = {1},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.4103/jvbd.jvbd_13_25},
pmid = {40521738},
issn = {0972-9062},
mesh = {*Zoonoses/transmission/epidemiology/prevention & control/microbiology ; Animals ; Humans ; *One Health ; COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission ; Ecosystem ; *Anthropogenic Effects ; Climate Change ; Pandemics ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Humans, animals, and ecosystems coexist in a delicate web of interdependent means of existence. Each of these play pivotal roles in shaping the sustainability of life on earth and global health outcomes. Human actions have profoundly transformed ecosystems on a global scale, threatening biodiversity and destabilizing ecological processes. The intricate relationship between humans and animals also extends to the realm of disease transmission such as zoonotic diseases. The term 'spillover' commonly refers to an infection originating from animals that spreads to humans, potentially leading to an outbreak that escalates into an epidemic or pandemic through human-to-human transmission. These incidents posed the risk of evolving into pandemics with high mortality rates, which became a reality in recent in times during the COVID-19 pandemic. The emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases are influenced by a multifaceted interaction of factors including biological, ecological, environmental, socioeconomic, and human-induced influences such as deforestation, agriculture practices, livestock production, climate change and globalization. These modify the dynamics of disease transmission between animals and humans. Effectively averting and controlling zoonotic diseases embracing a One Health strategy, fostering collaboration among sectors accountable for human health, animal health, and environmental safeguards. One Health approach challenges the anthropogenic dominance of earth and aims for optimal health and sustainability for humans, animals, and the environment simultaneously.},
}

*Zoonoses/transmission/epidemiology/prevention & control/microbiology
Animals
Humans
*One Health
COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission
Ecosystem
*Anthropogenic Effects
Climate Change
Pandemics
Global Health
SARS-CoV-2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41780665,
year = {2026},
author = {Maithania, H and Tiwary, P and Oswal, K and Varghese, R},
title = {Lipid-Based Nanocarriers for Antiviral Drug Delivery: A Review of the Advances, Manufacturing Technologies, Therapeutic Mechanisms, and Clinical Applications.},
journal = {Chemistry and physics of lipids},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {105574},
doi = {10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2026.105574},
pmid = {41780665},
issn = {1873-2941},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The persistent global burden of viral infections, compounded by the emergence of resistance and suboptimal therapeutic efficacy, underscores the urgency for innovative treatment strategies. Recent viral outbreaks such as COVID-19, Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), Zika, Ebola, Nipah, and various influenza viral strains have highlighted the limitations of conventional antivirals. This necessitates the need for targeted, adaptable, and innovative drug delivery platforms. In light of this, LNCs have emerged as versatile systems capable of enhancing drug stability, biodistribution, and cellular uptake. With their tunable architecture and ability to encapsulate diverse antiviral agents, these nanocarriers offer a promising avenue to overcome pharmacological barriers, improve therapeutic efficacy, and enable effective intervention against both established and emerging viral pathogens.

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

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

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

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