@article {pmid41684611,
year = {2026},
author = {Phanphairoj, K and Wisesrith, W and Chumwichan, S},
title = {Mapping research trends and competency domains in nursing-related digital and artificial intelligence technologies: A bibliometric analysis.},
journal = {International journal of nursing sciences},
volume = {13},
number = {1},
pages = {36-44},
pmid = {41684611},
issn = {2352-0132},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the research trends, thematic structures, and core competency domains in the field of nursing-related digital and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 statement. Peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2015 to 2025 were retrieved from Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. Thematic clustering was conducted using the Louvain algorithm and cosine similarity. A subset of 66 frequently cited articles was then qualitatively synthesized to capture core competencies across clusters.

RESULTS: A total of 83,807 articles were included for bibliometric analysis. Of these, 66 articles were chosen for thematic analysis. Five major thematic clusters were identified: remote care in primary settings, oncology and palliative care, nurse education and training, safety and quality in nursing practice, and geriatric and dementia care. Additionally, four competency domains were identified: telehealth and remote communication, health systems and informatics, digital tools in practice, and AI-powered decision support. A clear shift in research focus was observed, with the emphasis transitioning from foundational digital skills before the COVID-19 pandemic to more advanced competencies during the post-pandemic digital transformation, encompassing ethical reasoning, immersive technology use, and AI integration.

CONCLUSIONS: Integrating digital and AI technologies is reshaping nursing practice across various thematic areas and competency domains, highlighting a transition from foundational digital tasks to AI-supported decision-making and ethically informed technology use. This study provides a structured overview of evolving competencies in digital nursing and synthesizes evidence to support future research, curriculum design, and policy planning.},
}

@article {pmid41685028,
year = {2026},
author = {Gabunia, L and Khetsuriani, S and Gamkrelidze, N and Gvajaia, N and Ratiani, L and Janigashvili, G},
title = {Pathogenesis and Pharmacotherapy of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Induced by Pandemic Viral Infections: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e101316},
pmid = {41685028},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe, life-threatening condition characterized by acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema caused by increased alveolar-capillary permeability. ARDS is highly heterogeneous, with diverse etiologies and clinical presentations that complicate diagnosis and management. Viral infections, including influenza A (H1N1 and H5N1) and coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, are major contributors to ARDS and can trigger severe lung injury, hyperinflammation, and dysregulated immune responses. Ongoing viral evolution and periodic emergence of novel strains continue to pose a substantial threat to global public health. This narrative review analyzes pandemic-associated viral causes of ARDS, summarizes key mechanisms of pathogenesis, and evaluates current and emerging pharmacotherapeutic approaches. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, supplemented by additional sources where appropriate. The review highlights that the increasing prominence of viral pneumonia as a cause of ARDS requires both established supportive care and tailored therapeutic strategies that target the underlying mechanisms of lung injury. Despite progress, virus-associated ARDS remains a major clinical challenge with high morbidity and mortality and may require management approaches distinct from those used for other ARDS etiologies.},
}

@article {pmid41685167,
year = {2026},
author = {Su, K and Qiu, J and Xu, T and Liu, S},
title = {Artificial intelligence-guided design of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery.},
journal = {Acta pharmaceutica Sinica. B},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {709-727},
pmid = {41685167},
issn = {2211-3835},
abstract = {Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) hold significant potential for mRNA-based therapeutics, as evidenced by their successful use in SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines. LNPs effectively protect and transport mRNA to target sites, thereby ensuring its stability and efficient transfection. Despite the progress, some challenges remain in the development of mRNA-LNP delivery systems, such as limited targeting specificity, the complexity of formulations, and the time-consuming and high-throughput screening process. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool to address these challenges, accelerating the design and optimization process of LNPs. AI-guided approaches can improve the efficiency of lipid structure and formulation screening by rapidly identifying key design parameters and employing predictive modeling to optimize LNP properties. The combination of AI and LNP technology offers significant advantages, including enabling the design of more personalized and precise delivery systems, streamlining the development process, and reducing the cost. This review discusses recent advancements in AI-guided mRNA-LNP delivery systems and highlights their potential to revolutionize mRNA therapeutics.},
}

@article {pmid41687973,
year = {2026},
author = {Milligan, T and Nair, R and Cowansage, K and Boyd, C and Morgan, MA and Kotzab, D and Bellanti, DM and Shank, LM and Berman, DE and Chari, S and Evatt, DP and Kelber, MS},
title = {Mental health risk factors for psychological disorders after COVID-19 infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of affective disorders},
volume = {402},
number = {},
pages = {121377},
doi = {10.1016/j.jad.2026.121377},
pmid = {41687973},
issn = {1573-2517},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; Risk Factors ; *Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/psychology/epidemiology/etiology ; *Adjustment Disorders/psychology/epidemiology/etiology ; *Mental Disorders/psychology ; Anxiety Disorders ; Anxiety ; Mental Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Depression/psychology ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic was a time of uncertainty and rapid change that has had demonstrable effects on the mental health of those who experienced it. For individuals who contracted the illness, some types of risk factors for adverse mental health post-COVID have been examined (e.g., demographics), but how pre-COVID psychiatric risk factors may have contributed to worsened outcomes has not been systematically evaluated. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines mental health risk factors (e.g., general psychiatric history, trauma history) for depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and adjustment disorder in individuals after resolution of acute COVID-19 infection. We searched three databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus) and included 27 studies (15 cohort, 12 cross-sectional). Studies were dually extracted and assessed for quality. We conducted meta-analyses by study design and outcome for the risk factor of a general psychiatric history. Medium-to-large effect sizes were found for psychiatric history on post-COVID infection depression, anxiety, and PTSD. No studies examined adjustment disorder as an outcome. Studies of mental health risk factors that could not be incorporated into the meta-analyses (e.g., history of trauma) showed small-to-large effect sizes on post-COVID mental health. These results consistently show that mental health factors predict worse psychological health after acute COVID-19 infection. More robust study designs would improve this body of research.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
Risk Factors
*Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/psychology/epidemiology/etiology
*Adjustment Disorders/psychology/epidemiology/etiology
*Mental Disorders/psychology
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety
Mental Health
SARS-CoV-2
Depression/psychology

@article {pmid41688142,
year = {2026},
author = {Le Bui, N and Nguyen, KL and Phan Van, B and Khuong, YN and Chu, DT},
title = {Cell-free systems for vaccine production.},
journal = {Progress in molecular biology and translational science},
volume = {219},
number = {},
pages = {93-106},
doi = {10.1016/bs.pmbts.2025.08.001},
pmid = {41688142},
issn = {1878-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; Cell-Free System ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; *Vaccines/biosynthesis/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Cell-free (CF) systems is harness cellular components including tRNAs, ribosomes, and polymerase to synthesize proteins in vitro. Owing to their significant CF systems offer substantial advantages over traditional cell-based systems, including higher speed, biosafety, and portability. As a result, CF systems have emerged as a powerful platform for biomedical research, with particularly promising applications in biosensing and diagnostics, protein production, synthetic biology and vaccine development. In this chapter, we provided a comprehensive overview of CF system applications in the field of biomedical sciences, with an emphasis on vaccine development and production. We also discussed their successful applications in the expression of antigens from challenging pathogens, such as Plasmodium falciparum, Chlamydia muridarum, and SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, this chapter proposed several promising innovations to address current limitations of CF platforms such as the shortage of post-translational modifications, endotoxin presence, and high production cost. Emerging solutions include glycoengineering to introduce functional glycosylation, freeze-drying for improving storage and distribution, exosome-based delivery for designing next generation vaccines, and even machine learning integration, to optimize the production pipelines.},
}

Humans
Cell-Free System
*Vaccine Development/methods
*Vaccines/biosynthesis/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid41689404,
year = {2026},
author = {Pereira-Dias, F and de Espíndola, MB},
title = {Integrating Digital Technologies Into Biochemistry Education: A Decade of Efforts, Pandemic Impacts, and Emerging Insights.},
journal = {Biochemistry and molecular biology education : a bimonthly publication of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology},
volume = {54},
number = {2},
pages = {195-216},
pmid = {41689404},
issn = {1539-3429},
support = {//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Estado de Santa Catarina/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Biochemistry/education ; *Pandemics ; *Digital Technology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Education, Distance ; },
abstract = {This review critically examines the integration of Digital Information and Communication Technologies (TDICs) in biochemistry education over the past decade, highlighting both the benefits and challenges from a critical theoretical perspective. A systematic review was conducted to identify relevant literature, followed by thematic analysis and a detailed synthesis of the findings. Grounded in Feenberg's critical theory of technology and Selwyn's scholarship on education and digital technology, this review examines the implications of virtual laboratories, augmented reality, gamification, and online platforms in biochemistry education, as well as their implications related to the pandemic. We observed that digital technologies can enhance certain aspects of student engagement and learning outcomes; however, they can also hinder equitable access and hands-on laboratory skills. This review also highlights the key elements of critical reflection on the socio-political and ethical implications of digital technologies in biochemistry education, with a particular focus on pandemic-era concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the commercialization of teaching practices. Future research should focus on these dimensions to ensure that technological advancements do not perpetuate or amplify educational inequities.},
}

Humans
*Biochemistry/education
*Pandemics
*Digital Technology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Education, Distance

@article {pmid41689447,
year = {2026},
author = {Coker, KL and Morgan, EL},
title = {High-Risk HPV in Men: A Hidden Threat to Public Health?.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70115},
pmid = {41689447},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Papillomavirus Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control/virology/transmission ; Male ; Public Health ; Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology ; Prevalence ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Vaccination ; Papillomaviridae ; Female ; Risk Factors ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection is a leading cause of several cancers, including those of the genital and oropharyngeal regions. While public health efforts have largely focused on women due to its link to cervical cancer, HPV also poses significant risks to men, particularly in the oropharyngeal regions. HR-HPV prevalence in men is high, with global estimates of 21% for male genital infections. While the HPV vaccination programme has expanded to include boys, challenges remain, including a decline in vaccine uptake due to COVID-19 disruptions, vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation. These barriers hinder the full potential of vaccination efforts. Furthermore, HPV transmission is complex and multifactorial, making it difficult to track, while its prevalence, clearance, and persistence vary based on factors such as sexual behaviour and immune status. Additionally, data from lower socio-economic regions is limited, highlighting a critical gap in research. Specific data on these epidemiological characteristics for male patients is lacking, prompting the need for gender-balanced approaches. Here, we explore the prevalence, risks, and public health implications of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) in men. We suggest a more inclusive approach to HPV prevention, emphasising the need for targeted vaccination and screening programs for men. A gender-neutral approach is crucial to reducing the global burden of HPV-related diseases and moving closer to the goal of eradicating HPV infections worldwide.},
}

Humans
*Papillomavirus Infections/epidemiology/prevention & control/virology/transmission
Male
Public Health
Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage/immunology
Prevalence
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Vaccination
Papillomaviridae
Female
Risk Factors
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41690153,
year = {2026},
author = {Ortiz-Tallo, A and Izquierdo, A and Calvo, A and Lara, E and Ayuso-Mateos, JL and Cabello, M},
title = {A systematic review of the bidirectional relationship between psychosis and loneliness.},
journal = {Journal of psychiatric research},
volume = {196},
number = {},
pages = {115-122},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2026.02.018},
pmid = {41690153},
issn = {1879-1379},
mesh = {Humans ; *Loneliness/psychology ; *Psychotic Disorders/psychology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: and hypothesis: Loneliness, defined as a subjective feeling of isolation, has been significantly correlated with psychotic experiences in general and clinical populations, although less is known about the direction of this relationship. This paper aims to systematically review the longitudinal relationship between loneliness and psychosis spectrum continuum, addressing two fundamental questions: (1) is loneliness a risk factor for the development of psychosis, and (2) does psychosis increase the risk of experiencing loneliness?

STUDY DESIGN: A comprehensive search of 5 electronic databases yielded a total of 4386 records, from which 10 observational studies were finally included.

STUDY RESULTS: Six studies investigated the first research question, and all of them identified a significant association between loneliness and the subsequent incidence of psychosis (question 1). Conversely, 4 studies explored the second research question, with 3 suggesting that individuals within the psychosis spectrum may face heightened susceptibility to loneliness (question 2). The remaining study, conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic, did not yield significant findings. Assessment of methodological quality indicated predominantly moderate-to-high-quality studies.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings underscore the need for further research, particularly longitudinal prospective studies, to clarify whether the observed association between loneliness and psychosis is direct or whether it is instead moderated or mediated by other variables. Overall, the available evidence provides stronger support for loneliness as a potential risk factor for the onset of psychosis, although the number of longitudinal studies addressing this question remains very limited. Addressing these gaps in knowledge could inform the development of targeted prevention programs and interventions for people with psychotic spectrum disorders.},
}

Humans
*Loneliness/psychology
*Psychotic Disorders/psychology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology
Risk Factors

@article {pmid41690197,
year = {2026},
author = {Shang, X and Zheng, J and Liu, X and Guo, K and Zhang, N and He, R and Gan, Y and Zhang, WH and Jia, P and Yang, L and Zhu, B},
title = {Climatic factors drive global viral respiratory infections with regional heterogeneity: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Environment international},
volume = {208},
number = {},
pages = {110120},
doi = {10.1016/j.envint.2026.110120},
pmid = {41690197},
issn = {1873-6750},
mesh = {Humans ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology ; *Climate Change ; *Climate ; *Virus Diseases/epidemiology ; Temperature ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Climate change is altering global respiratory virus transmission, yet pathogen-specific climate sensitivities remain unclear across diverse geographical settings.

METHODS: We searched six databases (inception-10 May 2024) for studies quantifying associations between climate factors and virus respiratory infections (VRIs). Random-effects models pooled relative risks (RRs) per unit increase in temperature, relative humidity, precipitation, and wind speed, with climate sensitivity assessed by Köppen-Geiger zones.

RESULTS: From 108 studies comprising 9.22 million VRI cases, three climate patterns emerged. First, temperature was the dominant driver: each 1°C increase reduced respiratory syncytial virus (RSV; RR 0.13, 95% CI 0.08-0.22), influenza virus (IV; RR 0.37, 95% CI 0.23-0.58), human metapneumovirus (HMPV; RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.32-0.73), SARS-CoV-2 (RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.35-0.78), and human coronavirus (HCoV; RR 0.21, 95% CI 0.07-0.61) risks, but increased parainfluenza virus (PIV; RR 2.35, 95% CI 1.46-3.77) and human bocavirus (HBoV; RR 1.86, 95% CI 1.04-3.32) risks. Second, other climate factors showed selective effects: higher humidity decreased IVB risk (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.40-0.94) but increased enterovirus risk (RR 2.21, 95% CI 1.08-4.51); precipitation decreased IV risk (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.51-0.89) but increased PIV risk (RR 1.91, 95% CI 1.21-2.99); wind speed amplified IV (RR 1.51, 95% CI 1.01-2.27) and HCoV transmission (RR 5.36, 95% CI 3.43-8.38). Third, climate-zone analyses revealed substantial heterogeneity: in temperate regions, low temperature and humidity increased the risk of most infections (except PIV and HBoV); risks of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV risks decreased in temperate but increased in continental regions; RSV and HMPV showed greater sensitivity in tropical regions; while in arid regions, MERS-CoV risk increased with temperature but decreased with humidity and wind speed.

CONCLUSION: This analysis identified climate-sensitive VRIs with temperature as key predictor, pathogen-specific sensitivities, and distinct regional patterns, informing targeted climate-based intervention strategies.},
}

Humans
*Respiratory Tract Infections/epidemiology/virology
*Climate Change
*Climate
*Virus Diseases/epidemiology
Temperature
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41693062,
year = {2026},
author = {Deane-King, J and Howell, J and Maguire, R},
title = {Experiences of Individuals With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Their Caregivers During the Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Nursing open},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {e70462},
pmid = {41693062},
issn = {2054-1058},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/psychology ; *Caregivers/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Qualitative Research ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {AIM: To explore the experiences of individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (IwCOPD) and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DESIGN: Systematic review, adhering to PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42022327424).

DATA SOURCES: PsycINFO, PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science.

METHODS: Databases were searched in April 2022 using keywords relating to COPD, caregivers/patients and COVID-19. Studies collecting data on experiences of IwCOPD or their informal caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic were included. Following screening and quality appraisal by two reviewers, a qualitative synthesis was conducted.

RESULTS: Of 2931 abstracts screened, 24 articles met the inclusion criteria. For IwCOPD, pandemic impacts on physical and mental health were found, including fears of contracting COVID-19, changes in exacerbation levels, reductions in physical activity, and increases in depression and anxiety. Changes to healthcare management, including access to telemedicine, and positive adaptations, such as increased medication adherence, self-preservation and self-care, were also reported in the studies reviewed. Caregivers expressed fear of their care recipient contracting COVID-19 and changes in the home environment.

CONCLUSION: While the pandemic led to considerable negative experiences for IwCOPD, review findings suggest that some positive experiences were also reported.

Findings may help inform the development of physical and mental health supports for IwCOPD and their caregivers.

IMPACT: This study sheds light on the limited evidence regarding experiences of IwCOPD and their caregivers during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. As many IwCOPD continue to be impacted by COVID-19, these findings have the potential to inform healthcare providers how they may better support IwCOPD and their caregivers in numerous aspects of their healthcare management and their daily lives.

The lead author's experience as a COPD caregiver acted as Public and Patient involvement input. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER CONTRIBUTE TO THE WIDER GLOBAL CLINICAL COMMUNITY?: (1) The review sheds light on the considerable impact the pandemic had on the mental and physical health of IwCOPD. (2) It identifies vulnerable areas where support could be improved for IwCOPD and their caregivers, and how support could be improved.

RELEVANCY TO NURSING OPEN: People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease require considerable care and support from nursing professionals. This review highlights the care needs and support that may be beneficial for this group and is relevant to Nursing Open on nursing practice and research.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/psychology
*Caregivers/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Pandemics
Qualitative Research
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41694172,
year = {2026},
author = {Chatzidou, P and Stratos, A and Chint, M and Niakou, A and Pissiotis, A and Kamalakidis, S},
title = {Denture-Associated Candidiasis and Mucormycosis in Post-COVID-19 Older Adults Managed Through an Integrated Prosthodontic and Infectious Disease Approach: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e103448},
pmid = {41694172},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed significant vulnerabilities among older adults, particularly denture wearers, to opportunistic fungal infections, including mucormycosis and oral candidiasis. This narrative review, following PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Narrative Reviews) guidelines, collected evidence from 2020 to 2025 to examine the connection between denture use, systemic comorbidities, and fungal complications in elderly individuals after COVID-19. A total of 21 of 104 studies were included, covering case-control, cross-sectional, cohort, and retrospective studies from India, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Several studies have reported higher rates of oral fungal colonization among denture wearers,with Candida albicans being the most frequently isolated species, followed by resistant strains such as Candida auris. However, these observations are primarily derived from heterogeneous observational studies and should therefore be interpreted as associative rather than causal. COVID-19-related mucormycosis (CAM) was primarily reported as rhino-orbito-cerebral disease, with oral manifestations including palatal necrosis, gingival ulcers, and tooth mobility. Key risk factors identified include diabetes mellitus, corticosteroid therapy, prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stays, and poor denture hygiene. Mortality related to CAM ranged from 18% to 56%, while candidiasis, though less deadly, significantly affected oral function, nutrition, and overall quality of life. Diagnostic methods included clinical and intraoral examinations, microbiological cultures, imaging techniques, and emerging salivary biomarkers. Treatments included systemic antifungal medications, surgical removal, and prosthesis disinfection, highlighting the important role of prosthodontists in prevention and rehabilitation. Knowledge gaps remain regarding the predictive value of oral lesions for systemic infections, the long-term effects of COVID-19 on the oral microbiome, and the need to standardize denture hygiene protocols. This review emphasizes the importance of integrated dental and medical care in reducing morbidity and mortality among denture-wearing older adults recovering from COVID-19, while recognizing that early oral findings may serve as warning indicators rather than definitive predictors of systemic infection.},
}

@article {pmid41695592,
year = {2026},
author = {Ince, I and Sposito, F and Charras, A and McCann, LJ and Hedrich, CM},
title = {How loss-of-function mutations in IFIH1 contribute to infectious and/or inflammatory disease - a systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of translational autoimmunity},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {100353},
pmid = {41695592},
issn = {2589-9090},
abstract = {The IFIH1 gene encodes for the cytoplasmic innate immune receptor Melanoma Differentiation-Associated protein 5 (MDA5) that detects viral double-stranded RNA to initiate type I interferon (IFN) responses. While gain-of-function mutations in IFIH1 have been linked with systemic inflammatory diseases, loss-of-function remains less well understood. This systematic review, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidance, explored how IFIH1/MDA5 loss-of-function affects susceptibility to virus infections and/or contributes to inflammatory diseases. Sixteen loss-of-function variants affecting IFIH1 were discussed across 33 studies. Loss-of-function variants were consistently associated with increased susceptibility and/or severity of virus infections, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Several rare biallelic IFIH1 mutations lead to profound immunodeficiency, while heterozygous mutations associate with milder clinical presentations. Likely through dampening IFN responses, several variants protect from the development of inflammatory diseases, including type 1 diabetes and hypothyroidism. However, IFIH1 deficiency is also implicated in the development of inflammatory diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease. Moreover, the presence of inactivating anti-MDA5 antibodies may alter the clinical phenotypes and prognosis of dermatomyositis and infections with SARS-CoV2. Though their exact impact on MDA5 function has not been confirmed experimentally, anti-MDA5 antibodies may result in loss-of-function and impaired host defence against viruses. Loss of IFIH1/MDA5 activity has diverse effects on anti-viral immunity, associated damage and susceptibility to inflammatory disease, but also protection against organ-specific immune-mediated pathology. Findings highlight the importance of IFIH1 in immune regulation and warrant future studies exploring its potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target.},
}

@article {pmid41695980,
year = {2026},
author = {Hanifian, H and Nateghpour, M},
title = {Iran's Journey Through Malaria: From Past Challenges to Future Elimination-A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of tropical medicine},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {4251955},
pmid = {41695980},
issn = {1687-9686},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Malaria remains a persistent public health concern in Iran, particularly in southeastern regions bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan. Despite substantial progress over recent decades, challenges such as cross-border transmission, insecticide resistance, and health system disruptions continue to threaten elimination goals.

METHODS: This narrative review synthesized evidence from the World Health Organization (WHO) World Malaria Reports, national surveillance summaries, and peer-reviewed publications indexed in PubMed and Scopus from 2000 to 2025. Emphasis was placed on case trends, intervention coverage, and cross-border dynamics.

RESULTS: Iran reduced indigenous malaria cases dramatically from thousands in the early 2000s to fewer than 300 annually by the mid-2010s and subsequently recorded multiple consecutive years with zero indigenous transmission, according to the WHO surveillance reports. Key achievements included integrated vector management, community engagement, and strengthened cross-border initiatives. However, interruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic and a resurgence of malaria in 2022, largely associated with imported infections, operational disruptions, and emerging vector threats, highlighted vulnerabilities in elimination-phase systems. Additional challenges such as insecticide resistance and the spread of Anopheles stephensi further complicate the elimination trajectory.

CONCLUSION: Iran's experience illustrates the need for adaptive, multisectoral approaches to malaria control in complex socioecological settings. While elimination remains within reach, achieving the WHO certification will require transparent surveillance metrics, reinforce cross-border collaboration, and sustain political and financial commitment.},
}

@article {pmid41696091,
year = {2026},
author = {Rezaei, Z and Khorraminia, A and Shi, D and Banad, YM},
title = {Network-based artificial intelligence in mental healthcare: A systematic review of chatbots, artificial intelligence/machine learning models and ethical considerations in global healthcare networks.},
journal = {Digital health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {20552076261421688},
pmid = {41696091},
issn = {2055-2076},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This systematic review examines how artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) models and AI-powered chatbots, contributes to the diagnosis, treatment and ethical governance of mental healthcare. It explores how AI-driven systems form interconnected healthcare networks that enhance accessibility, personalization and resilience of mental health services, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

METHODS: A comprehensive search across PubMed, IEEE Xplore and Google Scholar (2017-2024) was conducted using Boolean combinations of "AI," "machine learning," "chatbots" and "mental health." Screening followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, yielding 37 high-quality studies for qualitative synthesis. Extracted data were categorized into three domains: (1) AI- and ML-based diagnostic models, (2) chatbot-enabled mental health support systems and (3) ethical and privacy considerations. Analytical dimensions included algorithmic performance, clinical outcomes, data governance and equity of access.

RESULTS: AI-driven interventions improved accessibility, diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic personalization. Chatbots such as Woebot, Wysa and Tess effectively reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, increased user engagement and provided scalable support, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. ML models, including MentalBERT, MentalRoBERTa and SR-BERT, achieved F1 scores of 68-93% in mental health classification tasks. However, limitations included dataset bias, lack of longitudinal evidence and limited cross-cultural generalizability. Ethical analyses revealed persistent challenges concerning privacy, informed consent, algorithmic bias and accountability.

CONCLUSION: AI technologies, when integrated with human oversight, offer transformative potential for global mental health systems by creating interconnected and adaptive care networks. These technologies can enhance efficiency, reduce barriers to care and support data-driven public health strategies. However, successful deployment depends on clear ethical frameworks that promote transparency, respect cultural contexts and preserve human oversight. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies, inclusive datasets and ethical frameworks that maintain human-centered values in AI-enabled mental health systems.},
}

@article {pmid41696228,
year = {2026},
author = {de Araújo, AB and S Azul, FVC and Carneiro, YC and de Sousa, CNS and de Vasconcelos, SMM and Rios, FJ and Leal, LKAM},
title = {Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and COVID-19: Microglia-Neutrophil Interaction.},
journal = {ACS omega},
volume = {11},
number = {5},
pages = {6922-6938},
pmid = {41696228},
issn = {2470-1343},
abstract = {Abnormal activation of the immune system and oxidative stress are crucial factors in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Microglia, neutrophils, oxidative stress mediators such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation products (e.g., malondialdehyde), and nitrosative stress markers (e.g., nitrite and nitrate) play important roles in neuroinflammatory mechanisms. Microglial cells acquire a proinflammatory phenotype through interactions with endogenous or exogenous compounds, including cell debris, abnormally modified proteins (including Aβ species and alpha-synuclein), and pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2). They produce many inflammatory mediators and promote the activation of adjacent brain cells and leukocyte infiltration, including polymorphonuclear neutrophils. Accumulation of neutrophils in the central nervous system (CNS) leads to the secretion of more proinflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, proteases, and oxidants, and the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). These processes are associated with the pathological activation of microglial cells, cell death, consequent influence on neuronal functions, or even neuronal death, which is a hallmark of CNS disorders. In this review, we address the importance of inflammatory mechanisms and oxidative stress in the CNS associated with Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and the neuronal effects observed in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as observed by the abnormal activation of central and peripheral immune cells, such as microglia and neutrophils. We also discuss emerging evidence linking SARS-CoV-2 infection to neuroinflammatory mechanisms that could contribute to neurodegenerative complications.},
}

@article {pmid41696621,
year = {2026},
author = {Nguyen Hai, C},
title = {Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in the post-COVID-19 era: diagnosis, treatment, and what lies ahead.},
journal = {Therapeutic advances in infectious disease},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {20499361251406189},
pmid = {41696621},
issn = {2049-9361},
abstract = {Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) is a severe opportunistic fungal infection that predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals, including those with hematologic malignancies, organ transplants, and, more recently, patients with post-COVID-19 immune dysregulation. Despite advancements in medical mycology, IPA continues to pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, contributing to high global morbidity and mortality. Diagnostic accuracy remains limited due to nonspecific clinical manifestations and the suboptimal performance of conventional tools such as bronchoalveolar lavage culture and galactomannan testing. However, recent innovations including polymerase chain reaction-based molecular assays, lateral flow devices, and immuno-positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging offer improved sensitivity, specificity, and speed. Therapeutically, triazoles remain the cornerstone of IPA management, complemented by echinocandins and liposomal amphotericin B in refractory cases. The role of combination therapy and antifungal susceptibility testing is growing in response to rising azole resistance. Additionally, novel antifungal agents and immunotherapeutic approaches are currently under clinical investigation. Effective management of IPA requires a timely, multidisciplinary approach that combines advanced diagnostics with personalized antifungal strategies. Continued research is essential to standardize molecular techniques, refine immunotherapy, and expand access to next-generation antifungals to reduce the global burden of this life-threatening infection. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the diagnosis and treatment of IPA, critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of existing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and explore emerging strategies to enhance clinical outcomes in the context of rising antifungal resistance.},
}

@article {pmid41696692,
year = {2025},
author = {Badran, EF and Rayyan, A and Al Jaberi, M and Azzam, M and Ramadan, R and Khader, Y and Alqutob, R and Bakri, FG and Qasrawi, R and Yacoub, T and Sharaqa, A and Fraihat, N and Trigui, H and Sokhn, E and Tayyem, R and Musa, E and Kong, JD},
title = {Infectious disease burden and surveillance challenges in Jordan and Palestine: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in digital health},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1713089},
pmid = {41696692},
issn = {2673-253X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Jordan and Palestine face public health challenges due to infectious diseases, with the added detrimental factors of long-term conflict, forced relocation, and lack of resources. Added to these are the increased rates of morbidity and mortality from having limited healthcare services available due to a lack of funding, poor disease surveillance systems, and entrenched systemic weaknesses. The purpose of this systematic review was to report the prevalence of infectious diseases in Jordan and Palestine in order to inform the development of targeted public health programs that use both standard and novel approaches to reduce the region's disease burden.

METHOD: As defined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the review included prospective, retrospective, cross-sectional, and case series studies published from January 2021 to February 2024. Non-English studies were excluded due to resource limitations, as were studies published before the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e., before January 2021) to focus on post-COVID-19-pandemic trends. We used diagnostic techniques (screening, laboratory, and confirmatory tests) to test for microorganisms in adults and children from at-risk populations in Jordan and Palestine. Test-negative controls were contrasted with patients who had positive test results. A manual reference screening process was added to a systematic search of PubMed and Scopus. Full-text, English-language publications published after January 2021 were eligible; protocols, reviews, case reports, and articles written in languages other than English were not. The Rayyan platform was used by two reviewers to independently screen studies. Infection type, causative microorganism, symptoms, mortality, risk factors, seasonal fluctuations, and study details (author, year, location, design, and participant characteristics) were among the extracted data. The Hoy 2012 Checklist was used to evaluate the risk of bias. Open Meta (Analyst) was used to analyze the 13 studies that satisfied the inclusion criteria. Study design, risk of bias, heterogeneity, publication bias, indirection, imprecision, effect size, and residual confounding were all considered when grading the quality of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

RESULTS: The results revealed that four studies addressed the prevalence of Brucella infection in Jordan and Palestine. The pooled estimate was 42.2% (95% CI: 18.8%-65.6%, I [2]: 99.7%, P: 0.001, n = 4 studies, 4,483 patients). In the studies that addressed diarrhea, in 31 of 159 (19.5%) cases, 20 were caused by Entamoeba (12.6%), 10 were caused by Blastocystis (6.3%), and 1 (0.6%) was caused by Cryptosporidium. As some cases had more than one parasite, the certainty of evidence (COE) was assessed as very low. The pooled estimate for viral causative agents of respiratory tract infections was 60% (95% CI: 11.8%-100%), while for bacterial causes, the pooled estimate was 24.4% (95% CI: 0%-68.3%). Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was the most common agent, with a pooled estimate of 57.9% (95% CI: 29.8%-85.9%), while influenza had a pooled estimate of 28.4% (95% CI: 5.3%-51.5%). Furthermore, two studies addressed the prevalence of meningitis in pediatric patients. In adult patients, of 192 patients known to have meningitis, a causative agent was identified in only 86 cases, with 83 (49%) classified as aseptic meningitis.

CONCLUSION: The review addressed the limitations of diagnostic capacity, reporting systems, and population-level data concerning high-burden and emerging pathogens within Jordan and Palestine. Specifically, the growth in the number of cases with respiratory tract infections, protozoal diarrheal diseases, and brucellosis indicates that improvements in surveillance systems and diagnostic processes need to be standardized and implemented throughout Jordan and Palestine to provide accurate and reliable diagnoses. In addition, improving the quality and quantity of the data and incorporating new technologies and other innovative approaches as a complement to existing public health indicators within Jordan and Palestine would be beneficial for better detecting these diseases at the earliest possible time and would provide the opportunity to establish evidence-based disease management strategies within the region.},
}

@article {pmid41696706,
year = {2025},
author = {Yu, P and Zhu, P and Kudiza, A and Kaburu, FM and Intizar, M and Tong, C and Zhang, R and Jiang, J and Yu, X and Kuang, Q and Chen, R and da Veiga, CP and Xiang, YT and Su, Z},
title = {Help, near and far: a systematic review of post-COVID digital mental health solutions for domestic violence victims.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1687396},
pmid = {41696706},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Domestic Violence/psychology ; *Mental Health ; *Crime Victims/psychology ; *Digital Technology ; *Survivors/psychology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Domestic violence (DV), as a global pandemic, poses a significant challenge within the field of public health, gravely impacting the mental and physical health of victims. Modern digital technologies have been proposed as promising interventions for DV-related mental health problems. We therefore evaluated their effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review digital interventions targeting the mental health of DV survivors and to summarize implications for health professionals and policy makers.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, EBSCO, and Web of Science (January 1, 2020-April 23, 2024) following PRISMA guidelines. Two reviewers independently screened records, applied predefined eligibility criteria, and extracted data. Owing to heterogeneity, we performed a narrative synthesis. Meanwhile, based on the results of the literature review, this paper proposes a series of policy recommendations from a post-COVID-19 era perspective, integrating societal context and relevant policies.

RESULTS: Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Three reported no significant mental-health benefits, whereas the remainder showed improvements in outcomes such as depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms, emotion regulation, perceived support, or safety preparedness using tools including mobile apps, web-based programs, virtual reality, chatbots, and video adjuncts.

CONCLUSION: Digital interventions show promise for improving mental-health outcomes among DV survivors, but their implementation requires attention to safety, engagement, cultural adaptation, and integration with offline services.

PROSPERO, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023488560.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
*Domestic Violence/psychology
*Mental Health
*Crime Victims/psychology
*Digital Technology
*Survivors/psychology

@article {pmid41696833,
year = {2026},
author = {Martinez-Morga, M and Garrigos, D and Martinez-Morga, S and Martinez, S},
title = {[Consequences of congenital COVID-19 on the cognitive development of affected children].},
journal = {Medicina},
volume = {86 Suppl 1},
number = {},
pages = {2-7},
pmid = {41696833},
issn = {1669-9106},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/congenital/complications/transmission ; Pregnancy ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology ; Female ; Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical ; Infant, Newborn ; Child ; *Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/virology ; *Neurodevelopmental Disorders/virology/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Child Development ; *Developmental Disabilities/virology/etiology ; },
abstract = {Congenital COVID-19 refers to infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus acquired in utero as a result of maternal infection during pregnancy. Although vertical transmission of the virus from mother to fetus appears to be relatively infrequent, growing clinical and epidemiological evidence indicates that prenatal exposure to SARSCoV-2, as well as to the maternal immune response it elicits, may have significant implications for early neurological development. Therefore, understanding the potential cognitive consequences of congenital COVID-19 is essential for the long-term monitoring of child health in affected individuals and for the implementation of early intervention strategies. This post-pandemic perspective on the consequences for neural development has been supported by observations showing that neonates exposed to congenital COVID-19 infection have a tenfold higher incidence of developmental delay compared with those not exposed to the virus. In this review, we examine the pathogenic mechanisms that may explain the increased incidence of neurodevelopmental alterations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/congenital/complications/transmission
Pregnancy
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/virology
Female
Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical
Infant, Newborn
Child
*Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects/virology
*Neurodevelopmental Disorders/virology/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
Child Development
*Developmental Disabilities/virology/etiology

@article {pmid41697443,
year = {2026},
author = {Camara, B and Buonsenso, D},
title = {Biomarkers of long COVID in children and young adults: a scoping review.},
journal = {European journal of pediatrics},
volume = {185},
number = {3},
pages = {132},
pmid = {41697443},
issn = {1432-1076},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; Child ; *Biomarkers/blood ; Adolescent ; Young Adult ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Following the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, a significant percentage of people are now experiencing long-term symptoms, despite a continuing lack of concrete documentation of physiological and risk profiles that hinders diagnosis and treatment, particularly in pediatric contexts. This review aims to highlight the existing evidence for measurable physiological markers for post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (long COVID) in children, adolescents, and young adults. Titles providing data related to measurable biomarkers distinguishing young long COVID patients from controls were compiled and analyzed. Results were displayed in table and diagram form for optimal qualitative evaluation of the relationship between markers and symptomatology within the context of each organ system. Only human studies published in English, Italian, Portuguese, German, and Spanish between the 5th of February 2025 and the 31st of December 2025 were considered, and no other time constraints were applied. Following search and criteria evaluation, nine studies were included, totaling 41 occurrences identified in diseased patients with statistically significant variation from healthy controls. Markers suggest the presence of organic manifestations based on published literature, although more data and future studies will be necessary to establish clear connections.

CONCLUSION: The data compiled for this review adds to the body of evidence indicating a physiological manifestation of long COVID and its consequences. Further investigation into potential risk factors, pre- and post-pubescent manifestations, and specific inflammatory and immune pathways will be necessary for a more concrete understanding of long COVID and its effects on children, adolescents, and young adults.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • Long COVID is estimated to affect a significant population of patients, despite the lack of concrete physiological diagnostic and prognostic measures. • Pediatric incidence of the disease is still largely debated, and published data are scarce.

WHAT IS NEW: • A total of 41 biomarker occurrences were identified by selected studies, which were consistent with expected physiology behind reported symptoms. • The body of data discussed suggests the presence of physiological phenomena behind the long-term symptoms experienced by pediatric long- COVID patients.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
Child
*Biomarkers/blood
Adolescent
Young Adult
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41697483,
year = {2026},
author = {Sheikholeslami, MA and Parvardeh, S and Ghafghazi, S and Zarei, M},
title = {Modulation of immune responses by opioids through toll-like and P2X receptor signaling in COVID-19.},
journal = {Purinergic signalling},
volume = {22},
number = {2},
pages = {22},
pmid = {41697483},
issn = {1573-9546},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/metabolism ; *Toll-Like Receptors/immunology/metabolism ; *Signal Transduction/drug effects/immunology ; *Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology ; *Receptors, Purinergic P2X/immunology/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Immunity, Innate/drug effects ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The pathogenesis of COVID-19 involves complex interactions between viral replication and host immune dysregulation, mediated by toll-like receptors (TLRs) and P2X receptors (P2XRs). These receptors detect pathogen- and damage-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs and DAMPs), triggering inflammatory cascades. Opioids, beyond their analgesic role, modulate innate and adaptive immune responses via opioid receptors and indirectly through TLR and P2X signaling. This narrative review integrates experimental, clinical, and bioinformatic evidence to explore the mechanistic crosstalk between opioid signaling, TLRs (notably TLR2, TLR4, TLR9), and P2XRs (notably P2X4 and P2X7) in COVID-19 immunopathology. Chronic opioid exposure may either enhance or suppress inflammation depending on dose, duration, and immune context. In COVID-19, the hyperactivation of TLR4, TLR7, and TLR9 drives cytokine storms, while the release of ATP from damaged cells activates P2X7, thereby amplifying the inflammatory response. ATP breakdown into adenosine further modulates immunity via A2A and A2B receptors. Targeting TLR4 and P2X7 offers a promising therapeutic strategy to mitigate hyperinflammation and improve outcomes in COVID-19 and related inflammatory diseases. In addition, we outline how the Contact System, the Kallikrein-Kinin System (KKS), the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS), and the NLRP3 inflammasome provide the innate inflammatory backdrop through which opioids and P2 receptor signaling may shape immune dysregulation in COVID-19. Notably, direct clinical evidence for opioid-P2 receptor interactions in COVID-19 remains limited, highlighting the need for targeted translational studies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/metabolism
*Toll-Like Receptors/immunology/metabolism
*Signal Transduction/drug effects/immunology
*Analgesics, Opioid/pharmacology
*Receptors, Purinergic P2X/immunology/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Immunity, Innate/drug effects
Animals

@article {pmid41698791,
year = {2026},
author = {Saiding, Q and Xiao, F and Khan, MM and Kong, N and Huang, X and Tao, W},
title = {Lipid-Polymer Hybrid Nanoparticles (LPHNPs) for RNA Delivery.},
journal = {Accounts of chemical research},
volume = {59},
number = {5},
pages = {762-775},
doi = {10.1021/acs.accounts.5c00874},
pmid = {41698791},
issn = {1520-4898},
mesh = {*Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Humans ; *Lipids/chemistry ; *Polymers/chemistry ; *RNA/chemistry/administration & dosage ; RNA, Small Interfering ; Animals ; },
abstract = {RNA-based therapeutics are now revolutionizing modern medicine, with examples like COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and the siRNA drug Leqvio, validating their potential in infectious diseases and chronic diseases. However, the broad clinical translation of RNA therapeutics remains critically dependent on the development of safe and effective delivery systems that are capable of overcoming physiological barriers and achieving precise spatiotemporal upregulation or downregulation of target proteins. Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have attracted significant attention due to their clinical success, yet they still struggle to overcome context-specific delivery barriers, such as poor stability in blood or gastrointestinal fluids, lack of disease-microenvironment responsiveness, and insufficient cell-type targeting, which hinder the full implementation of RNA therapeutics across a broad spectrum of diseases. To tackle the unmet needs in RNA-based therapeutics, developing new types of delivery platforms with different nanoparticle structures is therefore highly attractive and needed. Over the past decade, our group has focused on developing novel lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticles (LPHNPs) for the delivery of RNA therapeutics across diverse biomedical applications. By incorporating biodegradable polymers with tailored properties, for example, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) for structural stability, hyaluronic acid (HA) for CD44-mediated targeted delivery, and l-cysteine-based poly(disulfide amide) (Cys-PDSA) for redox-responsive release in the tumor microenvironment, these LPHNPs exhibit highly tunable architectures that integrate efficient RNA encapsulation, site-specific delivery, and controlled RNA release, providing more tools and choices for RNA delivery. In this Account, we summarize recent advances from our group in the design and synthesis of LPHNPs for RNA therapeutics, as well as their translational applications across diverse disease contexts. We highlight rational material pairings and design principles that optimize key performance metrics, including colloidal stability, RNA loading, cellular uptake, endosomal escape, and targeting efficacy. We also provide case studies demonstrating the translational potential of RNA-LPHNPs across various administration routes and disease models, including oral, inhaled, intravenous, and intravesical delivery, using the LPHNP platforms developed in our laboratory. These platforms have achieved promising therapeutic efficacy in models of cancers, inflammatory diseases, and respiratory conditions by enabling local or systemic delivery of mRNA or siRNA to immune cells, epithelial cells, and tumor microenvironments. By outlining optimized design strategies and future challenges, this Account aims to serve as a roadmap for researchers seeking to develop next-generation RNA delivery platforms that are modular, functionally versatile, and translatable.},
}

*Nanoparticles/chemistry
Humans
*Lipids/chemistry
*Polymers/chemistry
*RNA/chemistry/administration & dosage
RNA, Small Interfering
Animals

@article {pmid41699407,
year = {2026},
author = {Ben Ghezala, I and Peiffer-Smadja, N and Solas, C and Nougairède, A and Touret, F and Bardou, M},
title = {How Can Pharmacology Help Us Overcome the Challenges of Drug Repositioning as Antivirals to Treat Emerging Pathogens? The Example of Covid-19.},
journal = {Clinical and translational science},
volume = {19},
number = {2},
pages = {e70505},
pmid = {41699407},
issn = {1752-8062},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Repositioning/methods ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/pharmacokinetics ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Animals ; Hydroxychloroquine/therapeutic use/pharmacology/pharmacokinetics ; COVID-19/virology ; },
abstract = {The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need for effective therapies against emerging pathogens. Drug repurposing, defined as the use of existing medications for new therapeutic purposes, was extensively pursued for SARS-CoV-2 but has not yielded successful treatments. This narrative review critically examines the pharmacological and methodological factors that contributed to these unsuccessful outcomes, paying particular attention to tests of azithromycin and hydroxychloroquine. There are many reasons the promise of repurposed drugs was not realized. Many repurposed compounds displayed promising in vitro antiviral activity that did not translate into clinical efficacy. Major pharmacokinetic (PK) limitations, for example, poor oral bioavailability, low concentrations in pulmonary tissue, and extensive plasma protein binding, prevented these drugs from reaching therapeutic levels in humans. Preclinical research often relied on non-human cell lines and animal models that inadequately reflected human physiology, leading to misleading experimental outcomes. Clinical trials were often undermined by methodological limitations, including endpoints with uncertain clinical significance, suboptimal comparators, and insufficient attention paid to key PK and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters such as half maximal effective concentration (EC50) values. This narrative review emphasizes the importance of integrating comprehensive PK/PD assessments, relevant experimental models, and rigorous trial design to strengthen drug development during future health crises. The relative success of antivirals including molnupiravir, nirmatrelvir, and remdesivir, which were either novel or previously unapproved compounds, suggests the value of designing and developing targeted antivirals. We must coordinate global research, develop pharmacologically sound strategies, and use evidence-based decision-making to effectively prepare for future pandemics and quickly produce effective treatments.},
}

Humans
*Drug Repositioning/methods
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/pharmacokinetics
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Animals
Hydroxychloroquine/therapeutic use/pharmacology/pharmacokinetics
COVID-19/virology

@article {pmid41700931,
year = {2026},
author = {Dhawan, S and Hughes, J and Matveyenko, AV and Poitout, V},
title = {Staying Functional Through Connection and Adaptation: When Islets Inspire Islet Biologists.},
journal = {Diabetes},
volume = {75},
number = {4},
pages = {596-602},
pmid = {41700931},
issn = {1939-327X},
support = {//J.W. Kieckhefer Foundation/ ; R01DK140088/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; //Diabetes Canada/ ; R01DK138974/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; RGPIN-2022-03732//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; R01DK140365/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01DK098468/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; PJT-469193//Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes/ ; R01DK132597/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01 DK140088/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Islets of Langerhans/physiology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Adaptation, Physiological ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {In response to the lockdowns and travel bans during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, Peter C. Butler at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), started a virtual islet biology seminar series. After the authors of this article joined him as co-organizers, this initiative became the Islet Research Seminar Series (IRSS). Like islets of Langerhans adapt to their changing environment, the islet biology community quickly embraced this new format. The IRSS evolved into a lasting scientific forum that convenes weekly and is attended by islet biologists from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Israel. The series covers a range of topics in islet biology, with presentations from scientists representing all career stages. It has proven particularly valuable for trainees and early-stage investigators in exposing them to a variety of topics in islet biology without travel required and facilitating more spontaneous interactions with senior scientists than at in-person meetings. While the online format is not meant to replace live scientific conferences, we believe that the IRSS plays a unique role in keeping the islet biology community connected and abreast of the most recent scientific discoveries in our field. The success of this platform stands as a testament to the scientific community to adapt and thrive through challenges. This article is dedicated to Peter C. Butler, UCLA, who initiated the IRSS.},
}

*Islets of Langerhans/physiology
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Adaptation, Physiological
Animals
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41702131,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Ren, B and Rawaf, S and Tabche, C},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer screening in Europe: A systematic review of disruptions, barriers, and policy responses.},
journal = {Cancer treatment and research communications},
volume = {47},
number = {},
pages = {101115},
doi = {10.1016/j.ctarc.2026.101115},
pmid = {41702131},
issn = {2468-2942},
mesh = {Humans ; Europe/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Early Detection of Cancer/statistics & numerical data/methods ; *Neoplasms/diagnosis/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Policy ; Pandemics ; Mass Screening ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cancer screening is a cornerstone of cancer control, but the COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruption to preventive healthcare worldwide. In Europe, national screening programmes were severely affected, with consequences extending beyond screening to diagnosis, treatment, and equity. While several country-specific studies exist, cross-regional syntheses remain scarce. Understanding the scale, determinants, and outcomes of these disruptions is crucial to building resilient, equiTable screening systems.

AIM/OBJECTIVE: This systematic review synthesises evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer screening across Europe, examining differences by cancer type, screening modality, and national context. It also explores downstream effects, barriers, enablers, and policy responses to guide future preparedness.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, six databases and grey literature sources were searched for studies published between December 2019 and January 2025. Eligible studies included quantitative and qualitative analyses of screening activity during the pandemic. Data were extracted on study characteristics, outcomes, and contextual factors. Given the heterogeneity of measures, findings were summarised using descriptive statistics and thematic synthesis.

RESULT: Forty-five studies from 18 European countries revealed a 30-60 % reduction in screening participation at peak disruption, varying by cancer type and country. Consequences included delayed diagnoses, stage migration, increased projected mortality, and widening inequalities. Major barriers included service suspension, staff redeployment, and fear of infection. Enablers comprised adaptive communication, safety protocols, and digital innovations.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 caused substantial and uneven disruption to European cancer screening. Protecting continuity, institutionalising innovations, and addressing inequities are critical to enhancing resilience for future health crises.},
}

Humans
Europe/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Early Detection of Cancer/statistics & numerical data/methods
*Neoplasms/diagnosis/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Health Policy
Pandemics
Mass Screening

@article {pmid41702338,
year = {2026},
author = {Hazenberg, P and Duncan, CJ},
title = {Human genetics of susceptibility to live-attenuated viral vaccines.},
journal = {Current opinion in virology},
volume = {75},
number = {},
pages = {101512},
doi = {10.1016/j.coviro.2026.101512},
pmid = {41702338},
issn = {1879-6265},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage/adverse effects ; *Genetic Predisposition to Disease ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control/immunology/genetics/virology ; Vaccination ; Human Genetics ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Alongside the development of antibiotics, vaccination is the medical innovation with arguably the greatest impact on human health. Testament to its success is the eradication of infectious diseases, such as smallpox, that devastated human populations for almost 4000 years. Live-attenuated vaccines (LAV), which retain the capacity for infection and replication, were the first to be developed and remain highly efficacious, underpinning successful human vaccination campaigns (e.g. polio virus, measles virus, yellow fever virus). The cost of this success is the capacity of LAVs to cause disease in a small proportion of recipients, typically owing to overt or previously unappreciated immunodeficiency. From the careful investigation of such rare events, major clinical and scientific lessons about human antiviral immunity have been drawn. Here, we review features of pathogenic LAV dissemination, which continue to inform our understanding of critical steps in the immune control of LAVs. We discuss recent data on specific variants identified in geographically isolated populations and reflect on more common phenocopies of these monogenic defects, with potential implications for vaccine practice and policy. Collectively, these insights may inform approaches to the growing population of individuals rendered more vulnerable to LAVs by aging, multimorbidity or medical intervention. They also serve to highlight the clinical need for therapeutic strategies to combat pathogenic LAV dissemination.},
}

Humans
*Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*Viral Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage/adverse effects
*Genetic Predisposition to Disease
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control/immunology/genetics/virology
Vaccination
Human Genetics
Animals

@article {pmid41702386,
year = {2026},
author = {Yadegari, H},
title = {Von Willebrand Factor at the Crossroads of Hemostasis and Inflammation.},
journal = {Hamostaseologie},
volume = {46},
number = {1},
pages = {34-43},
doi = {10.1055/a-2755-5477},
pmid = {41702386},
issn = {2567-5761},
mesh = {Humans ; *von Willebrand Factor/immunology/physiology/metabolism ; *Hemostasis/immunology ; *Inflammation/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology/blood ; Immunity, Innate ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a large multimeric glycoprotein critical for hemostasis, mediating platelet adhesion to injured vessels and stabilizing circulating factor VIII. However, accumulating evidence reveals a complex, context-dependent role for VWF in inflammation and innate immunity that extends well beyond coagulation. VWF acts not only as a biomarker of endothelial activation but also as an active participant in immune responses. VWF directly interacts with major immune cell types-including macrophages, polymorphonuclear leukocytes (neutrophils), and dendritic cells-through both its endothelial-anchored and plasma forms. VWF facilitates leukocyte recruitment and transmigration across the vessel wall, while its interactions also promote macrophage and neutrophil activation as well as NET formation. VWF's immunomodulatory functions are further highlighted by its binding to extracellular DNA, smooth muscle cells, complement components (C1q and C3), and bacterial pathogens under flow conditions. Furthermore, VWF indirectly influences inflammation via its crucial role in Weibel-Palade body formation, a process that co-packages vital inflammatory mediators like P-selectin and angiopoietin-2. Markedly elevated VWF levels are consistently observed across acute and chronic inflammatory conditions such as sepsis, COVID-19, and autoimmune disorders, confirming its relevance as both a diagnostic marker and a therapeutic target. A comprehensive understanding of VWF's diverse functions in vascular inflammation is crucial for developing targeted therapeutics-including nanobodies, ADAMTS13 variants, and VWF interaction inhibitors-capable of modulating pathological thrombo-inflammation while preserving physiological hemostasis.},
}

Humans
*von Willebrand Factor/immunology/physiology/metabolism
*Hemostasis/immunology
*Inflammation/immunology
COVID-19/immunology/blood
Immunity, Innate
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41702637,
year = {2026},
author = {Torres Munguía, JA and Martínez-Zarzoso, I},
title = {Global trends of pandemic-prone and epidemic-prone disease outbreaks in 2024.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41702637},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; *Disease Outbreaks/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {During 2024, the number of pandemic-prone and epidemic-prone disease outbreaks worldwide was estimated at 301. The data highlight a shift in disease outbreak patterns, with a decline in the number of countries reporting public health events of concern linked to COVID-19 and a rise in those reporting outbreaks of viral diseases transmitted by vectors.About 90% of the outbreaks in 2024 were associated with COVID-19, dengue, yellow fever, Oropouche virus disease and influenza (linked to identified zoonotic or pandemic influenza virus). Although disease outbreaks can affect any country anywhere, they tend to disproportionately occur in countries facing many other socio-economic development, climatic and humanitarian challenges. In this regard, sub-Saharan Africa and the subregion of Latin America and the Caribbean-home to just 23.3% of the world's population-reported the highest number of disease outbreaks in 2024 with about 57% of the total. Particularly, the sub-Saharan Africa region has been the site of nearly 32% of recorded outbreaks since 1996. Future research should include efforts to improve the quality and availability of disease outbreaks data-particularly in the most exposed or vulnerable regions-and to promote the scientific use of such information for foresight purposes and for forecasting future health events of concern to support anticipatory action.},
}

Humans
*Global Health/statistics & numerical data
*Disease Outbreaks/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Pandemics/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41703981,
year = {2026},
author = {Tuschick, E and Smith, J and Harrison, B and Youngman, M and Giles, EL},
title = {Food Insecurity in Families With Children or Young People With Autism: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Nutrition bulletin},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/nbu.70047},
pmid = {41703981},
issn = {1467-3010},
abstract = {Food insecurity is frequently reported among families of children with autism spectrum conditions (ASC), yet there is limited evidence synthesising its prevalence and impact. This systematic review aimed to examine and meta-analyse the existing literature on food insecurity in families of children and young people with ASC. A comprehensive search across nine databases identified 39 papers, of which 11 met the inclusion criteria. Studies were included if they involved autistic children or young people under the age of 25 (and/or their family members) and focused on food insecurity. Eligible studies were critically appraised, and data were synthesised using both narrative and meta-analytic approaches. Meta-analyses of nine studies estimated a pooled prevalence of food insecurity at 29% (SE: 5%; 95% CI: 17%-40%; z = 5.35, p < 0.001), which increased to 31% following adjustment for publication bias. The review also found that food insecurity worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to increased caregiver stress and disruptions in eating behaviours. This review demonstrates the high prevalence of food insecurity among families of children with ASC and the complex interplay of social, economic and behavioural challenges they face. Addressing food insecurity in autistic households requires policy responses that extend beyond financial aid to consider the sensory, behavioural and nutritional needs specific to ASC. Future research should adopt standardised measures and prioritise the development and evaluation of inclusive, tailored food support systems that reflect the lived experiences of neurodiverse families.},
}

@article {pmid41705169,
year = {2025},
author = {Dost, G},
title = {Belongingness and loneliness in higher education: a meta-analysis of pre- and post-pandemic trends.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1625957},
pmid = {41705169},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: This meta-analysis seeks to explore how the complex relationship between loneliness and belongingness in higher education students can be explained by a set of pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic dynamics.

METHODS: A meta-analysis including 56 studies and involving a total of 30,062 participants was conducted, and the review explores direct relations and moderation through age, education, and country.

RESULTS: Results indicate a moderate-to-strong negative relationship between loneliness and belongingness (r = -0.48, 95% CI [-0.529, -0.422]), such that a consistent association was found across situations such that increases in one's level of loneliness is associated with decreases in one's level of belongingness. Nevertheless, there was no small-degree of inter-study heterogeneity (Q = 1058.86, p < 0.0001, I[2] = 94.33%), which is a potential reason for the differences in the study populations and methods, employing a random-effects model to account for these discrepancies. After further scrutiny of the results, location, and year of study, and country did not moderate the effect size, which in turn reflects the stability of the association across context and time. In the subgroup analysis the effect size of the relationship between the level of the Information Technology (IT) usage and the externalisation was lower in the time of the pandemic than in the time preceding the pandemic. The effect size of the pre-pandemic group is -0.515 (95% CI: -0.589 to -0.441, p < 0.001 < 0.001) and the effect size of pandemic group is slightly smaller with -0.427 (95% CI: -0.502 to -0.352, p < 0.001 < 0.001). This means that although the level of loneliness have normalised, there have been a subtonic influence on perceived belonging of the novelty stressor caused by breakdowns in social connection from pandemic-level influences. In addition, no significant publication bias was observed.

DISCUSSION: Overall, these findings confirm the strong negative association between loneliness and sense of belonging and emphasise the important role in providing community support for students, especially during social disruptions.},
}

@article {pmid41707545,
year = {2026},
author = {Goren, T and Vashdi, DR and Beeri, I},
title = {Political trust and health compliance during a health crisis: A systematic literature review from the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Social science & medicine (1982)},
volume = {395},
number = {},
pages = {119093},
doi = {10.1016/j.socscimed.2026.119093},
pmid = {41707545},
issn = {1873-5347},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Trust/psychology ; *Politics ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Political trust is considered crucial for enhancing civic compliance with government policies and instructions, particularly during a health crisis. However, evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic, a major global health crisis, suggest a more nuanced relationship. Aiming to explore and clarify the nature of and the conditions for the political trust and civic compliance relationship in the context of a health crisis in the general population, at the overall societal-level, this study systematically reviews relevant literature from the COVID-19 pandemic, across 62 countries. Our findings indicate that the positive relationship between political trust and compliance is not self-evident, as 42% of the reviewed studies (63 of 151) report non-significant, mixed or negative results. Moreover, conceptual and methodological features seem to affect the likelihood of this association, such as the object of trust and compliance behavior, the behavior's execution timeframe and its legal status, and the manner in which political trust and compliance are measured. Potential consequences are discussed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Trust/psychology
*Politics
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41707618,
year = {2026},
author = {Xu, Q and Zhao, M and Wang, Q and He, Y and Ye, G and Yang, J and Huang, W and Ren, J},
title = {Chronic fatigue syndrome: From etiology and mechanism to diagnosis and treatment.},
journal = {Journal of psychiatric research},
volume = {196},
number = {},
pages = {171-184},
doi = {10.1016/j.jpsychires.2026.02.026},
pmid = {41707618},
issn = {1879-1379},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis/therapy/etiology ; *COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), is a long-lasting neurological disease. The cause of ME remains uncertain, characterized by unrelenting or recurring fatigue not alleviated by rest. In recent times, CFS incidence has been on the rise annually, showing a tendency towards younger sufferers. Especially post-COVID-19, its prevalence has surged, posing a significant threat to 21st-century health. CFS symptoms are intricate and diverse. Patients typically endure extreme fatigue lasting over six months, accompanied by physical and neuropsychiatric symptoms like sore throat, muscle/joint pain, anxiety, and distress. These severely disrupt daily life and work, heightening illness risks and financial strain. With the unknown etiology, current treatments have limited success and may induce psychological issues such as anxiety and depression. This paper delivers an extensive and thorough overview of the latest developments in the studies concerning the pathogenesis, diagnostic standards, and therapeutic approaches for chronic fatigue syndrome. Integrating and assessing the existing knowledge body related to this field systematically, we aim to facilitate continuous research and gain a deeper understanding of this complex medical problem whose mechanism remains largely unknown. Moreover, valuable insights and practical recommendations for future related treatments and research are also provided.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/diagnosis/therapy/etiology
*COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid41708119,
year = {2026},
author = {Radtke, T and Pham-Ngoc, H and Hua-Huy, T and Hsia, CCW and Dressel, H and Dinh-Xuan, AT},
title = {Pulmonary diffusing capacity for nitric oxide in disease: a scoping review.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {35},
number = {179},
pages = {},
pmid = {41708119},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Diffusing Capacity ; *Nitric Oxide/metabolism ; *Lung/physiopathology/metabolism ; *COVID-19/physiopathology ; Predictive Value of Tests ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aims to map the available studies on single-breath pulmonary diffusing capacity for nitric oxide (D LNO) in various clinical diseases and identify gaps for future research.

METHODS: We followed the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. A systematic literature search was conducted in Embase, MEDLINE (EBSCOhost), PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library to identify studies on D LNO from 1983 to 2025. Two reviewers screened abstracts using Rayyan software and extracted data using standardised templates implemented into REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture).

RESULTS: We identified 1638 studies, of which 69 met the eligibility criteria. These studies represented respiratory (n=22), immunological/genetic/systemic (n=14), post-COVID-19 sequelae (n=13), cardiovascular (n=9), metabolic/endocrine/renal (n=6), environmental-related (n=3) and other (n=2) conditions. There was substantial heterogeneity in disease categories, sample sizes and reporting methods. Nearly half of the studies (49.3%) used convenience sampling, where participant selection processes are often poorly described; 62.3% included <50 participants. Only 18.8% reported a sample size calculation, and 10.1% registered or published a study protocol. Disparate findings within disease categories were often difficult to interpret; and small sample sizes limited generalisability. In some specific conditions, D LNO showed sensitivity in detecting interstitial and fibrotic changes compared to conventional single-breath pulmonary diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (D LCO) while simultaneous D LNO-D LCO measurements permitted the detection of pulmonary vascular-haematological perturbations.

CONCLUSION: Single-breath D LNO-D LCO may provide additional pathophysiological insight by assessing the relative contributions from membrane and blood resistance of diffusion. Larger studies are required to clarify its interpretation across disease states.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Diffusing Capacity
*Nitric Oxide/metabolism
*Lung/physiopathology/metabolism
*COVID-19/physiopathology
Predictive Value of Tests

@article {pmid41709444,
year = {2026},
author = {Park, JJ and Na, SH and Park, H and Lee, J and Seo, Y},
title = {Layout Types and Efficiency Improvement Strategies for Open Points of Dispensing in Vaccine and Antibiotic Distribution: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Prehospital and disaster medicine},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {e1},
doi = {10.1017/S1049023X26108838},
pmid = {41709444},
issn = {1945-1938},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/supply & distribution ; *Vaccines/supply & distribution ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Efficiency, Organizational ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Regarding pandemics or bioterrorism incidents, prompt and secure distribution of vaccines and prophylactic antibiotics is crucial. Open Points of Dispensing (PODs) are established to serve the public, and their effectiveness depends on the internal spatial layout and operational workflow design. However, studies on systematic classifications of open POD configurations and comprehensive syntheses of strategies for enhancing operational efficiency are lacking.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: This scoping review aimed to classify open POD layout types used for vaccine and antibiotic distribution and to consolidate strategies that improve efficiency across various workflow stations.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, spanning from January 2001 through July 2025. The search strategy involved incorporating keyword combinations related to "points of dispensing," "mass vaccination," "mass prophylaxis," and specific pathogens such as anthrax, influenza, and COVID-19. Extracted data included the POD layout typologies, process designs, and efficiency metrics. The findings were synthesized using a narrative approach.

RESULTS: Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Vaccine PODs were classified into four primary layouts, namely station-based sequential-flow, cell-based, fixed-seat service, and pop-up PODs. Antibiotic PODs were categorized into two types, namely sequential processing and selective-expedited processing. Each layout exhibited unique operational characteristics, including sequential versus integrated clinical stations (for vaccine PODs) and standard versus expedited dispensing lines (for antibiotic PODs). Efficiency enhancement strategies across workflow stations included task integration, use of digital tools, simplification of documentation, optimization of medication preparation, and staffing adjustments guided by simulation modeling.

CONCLUSION: This review provides a systematic classification of open POD layouts and summarizes the strategies for improving efficiency across workflow stations. The derived insights offer practical guidance for planning and operating PODs in future public health emergency responses.},
}

Humans
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/supply & distribution
*Vaccines/supply & distribution
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Efficiency, Organizational
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41709949,
year = {2026},
author = {Vatankhah, H and Vatanparast, M and Royani, Z and Mansouri, G},
title = {Lessons from a Low-Resource Country: A Narrative Review of Virtual Learning Adoption and Challenges in Medical Education in Iran During COVID-19.},
journal = {Advances in medical education and practice},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {561822},
pmid = {41709949},
issn = {1179-7258},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The global COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the education system. Education shifted to virtual methods, while there was not enough time to plan and choose a proper educational platform. In this study, we present an up-to-date review of the most commonly used virtual education platforms in Iran during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: This narrative review systematically searched Persian and English articles (2020-2024) in Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, ERIC, SID, CIVILICA, and PubMed using keywords: "COVID-19", "virtual learning", "online learning", "distance learning", "post-COVID infection", "real and virtual simulation", and "educational platforms".

RESULTS: Virtual classes have become increasingly popular during the pandemic. Adobe Connect, Sky Room, Skype, Big Blue Button, Google Meet, Gharar, Zoom, and Navaid System were the most commonly used platforms during the COVID pandemic in Iran. The most frequently utilized systems included Shad (predominant in general education and training) and Navid (leading in medical sciences). Shad had excelled in scalability and institutional integration but faced connectivity issues in rural areas. Despite its technical strengths, Navid was criticized because of insufficient interactivity and misalignment with learner needs in medical English.

DISCUSSION: During COVID-19, online medical education in Iran relied mainly on domestic platforms, which have some limitations. To ensure future equity and competency, a shift toward hybrid models incorporating offline-capable Learning Management Systems (LMS), simulation, and digital literacy training is essential.},
}

@article {pmid41710161,
year = {2026},
author = {Andreadis, I and Vasilopoulou, S},
title = {The populism-euroscepticism nexus in a contested Europe: The EUPopLink COST Action.},
journal = {Open research Europe},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {27},
pmid = {41710161},
issn = {2732-5121},
abstract = {The EUPopLink COST Action (CA23102) addresses the complex and changing relationship between populism and Euroscepticism in contemporary Europe. While often viewed as "two sides of the same coin," the nexus between these two phenomena is contingent and strategic rather than deterministic. Not all populists are Eurosceptic, and Euroscepticism is not always populist in nature. This publication synthesizes current scholarly debates, highlighting how the European Union (EU) is frequently framed as the populist "other", i.e., a remote, technocratic elite standing in opposition to the "pure people". The nature of this opposition varies significantly across the ideological spectrum, e.g. right-wing populism targets the EU primarily through a "traditionalist-authoritarian-nationalist" (TAN) lens, viewing it as a threat to national sovereignty and cultural identity, while left-wing populism critiques the EU based on socio-economic cleavages, challenging neoliberal governance and austerity while often advocating for a more democratic "Social Europe". The analysis further explores how the polycrisis era-marked by financial instability, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical conflict-has led to a sophisticated two-level strategy among populist actors. This involves increased institutional pragmatism coupled with radicalized, opportunistic communication, particularly on social media. Finally, the publication outlines the EUPopLink mandate, which seeks to standardize conceptual frameworks and generate an unprecedented body of comparative data through forthcoming country reports. By linking the supply and demand sides of electoral competition, the project aims to provide policymakers and scholars with the tools necessary to mitigate the negative consequences of these disruptive political forces.},
}

@article {pmid41710305,
year = {2026},
author = {Paterson, A and Spies, R and Zauchenberger, CZ and Cheyne, A and Olliaro, PL and Rojek, A},
title = {Effectiveness of stigma reduction interventions and outbreak response adaptations in infectious disease outbreaks: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1755092},
pmid = {41710305},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Social Stigma ; *Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/psychology/epidemiology ; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/psychology/epidemiology ; *Communicable Diseases/psychology/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Stigma is a common and recurring feature of infectious disease outbreaks where it may have detrimental effects on individual wellbeing and undermine outbreak response. This systematic review explores stigma reduction interventions in infectious disease outbreaks.

METHODS: Eligible studies were searched for in Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, and Global Health databases and through reference screening. Risk of bias was assessed using study design-specific tools and the results of included studies underwent narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: Eleven studies conducted across coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), Ebola disease, mpox, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and a hypothetical infectious-disease scenario, met the inclusion criteria. Five studies reported reductions in stigma, four reported mixed or null results, and two reported increases in stigma. The most promising strategies for outbreak-related stigma reduction were embedding anti-stigma messaging within health communication, providing psychosocial support, and fostering genuinely participatory community involvement.

DISCUSSION: Evidence on how to effectively reduce stigma during outbreaks remains limited. Strengthening the theoretical foundations, measurement tools, and evaluation designs of stigma-reduction interventions will be essential to inform evidence-based outbreak preparedness and response policies. This would help decision-makers ensure that risk communication, community engagement, and service delivery minimise stigma and improve uptake of testing, care, and preventive measures.},
}

Humans
*Social Stigma
*Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/psychology/epidemiology
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/psychology/epidemiology
*Communicable Diseases/psychology/epidemiology

@article {pmid41710320,
year = {2026},
author = {Kerai, T and Woolhouse, M and Nyazema, NZ and Mutapi, F},
title = {A narrative review of heterogeneity in SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes and vaccine efficacy: strategizing pandemic preparedness in Africa.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1761547},
pmid = {41710320},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/immunology ; Africa/epidemiology ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {Disease epidemiology during the COVID-19 pandemic differed greatly across the globe. In contrast to early pandemic predictions, Africa recorded the fewest SARS-CoV-2 related hospitalizations and deaths. Hypotheses proposed to explain this paradox include underreporting, age demographics, climate, national mitigation strategies, lifestyle factors, pre-existing cross-reactive protection, and host genetic determinants. This traditional, narrative review evaluates these hypotheses investigated in the published literature, and highlights knowledge gaps which limit our understanding and obscure validation of potential explanations. It also discusses how responses to vaccines, the primary intervention sought to control infectious disease outbreaks, may vary both within the African population and across other continents. Potential explanations in the literature include pre-existing immunity, poor nutrition, immune modulating co-infections, comorbidities, microbiome composition, genetic polymorphisms, and demographic factors. Previous studies have shown that pre-existing (infection-derived) immunity or cross-reactive immune responses can augment vaccine-elicited positive responses and can protect against reinfection in a way similar to immunization. Conversely, there are also studies showing that prior immunity interferes with the efficacy of new vaccines through mechanisms like original antigenic sin and immune imprinting. Thus, there is need for more immunology studies to understand the relative contribution of pre-existing cross-reactive immune responses to the epidemiology of new pathogens. These studies are particularly essential to understand the differences between pandemic preparedness and population vulnerability, as well as to inform vaccine development and vaccine effectiveness monitoring studies. SARS-CoV-2 serves as an important case study to understand heterogeneity between and within populations in immune responses to both the pathogen and to vaccination. This understanding is crucial in informing vaccine research and development aimed at supporting the 100-day mission for when the next pandemic threat emerges.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control/immunology
Africa/epidemiology
*Vaccine Efficacy
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Pandemic Preparedness

@article {pmid41710557,
year = {2025},
author = {Muzard, C and Seguin, J and Bonnefoy, J and Salkini, N and Serra, V and Alhareth, K and Lemdani, K and Mignet, N},
title = {Pre-clinical evaluation of mRNA-lipid nanoparticles' potency and toxicity: current practices and future directions.},
journal = {In vitro models},
volume = {4},
number = {3-4},
pages = {177-194},
pmid = {41710557},
issn = {2731-3441},
abstract = {Over the last few years, the success of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines has resulted in the emergence of RNA lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) with promising prospects for the prevention and treatment of various diseases. The context of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has led to the rapid development of vaccines with abbreviated non-clinical programs. However, there are currently no official guidelines defining the required standards for global marketing of mRNA based therapeutic products. Nevertheless, to guarantee a well-controlled product, it is essential to characterize both the drug substance and the final product in terms of their structure, composition, formulation, physico-chemical features, potency, and safety. This lack of guidance has resulted in a wide variety of heterogeneous in vitro tests being used to assess the potency and cytotoxicity of RNA-LNP. This review discusses the commonly used in vitro assays, primarily 2D monolayer assays, employed to evaluate the biological properties of RNA-LNP. We then explore novel alternative methods to bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo results. We summarize (i) co-culture models, (ii) multilayer 3D assays and (iii) in vivo replacement models, exploring their potential applications in assessing the potency and safety of RNA-LNPs. Finally, we discuss the use of in silico and machine learning as models for optimizing and predicting the biological behavior of RNA-LNPs.},
}

@article {pmid41710600,
year = {2026},
author = {Almohammadi, AA},
title = {The role of vaccination and infection prevention in reducing perioperative complications: A public health-anesthesia nexus.},
journal = {Saudi journal of anaesthesia},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {166-173},
pmid = {41710600},
issn = {1658-354X},
abstract = {The intersection of vaccination strategies, infection prevention protocols, and perioperative care represents a critical nexus in modern anesthetic practice and public health. This comprehensive review examines the evolving role of immunization and infection control measures in reducing perioperative complications, with particular emphasis on the Saudi Arabian healthcare context. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has highlighted the importance of vaccination timing in relation to elective surgery, while established infection prevention practices continue to form the cornerstone of safe perioperative care. In Saudi Arabia, national initiatives have demonstrated significant improvements in healthcare-associated infection rates, with central line-associated bloodstream infections decreasing from 2.5 per 1000 catheter-days in 2021 to 1.28 per 1000 catheter-days by 2024. The implementation of evidence-based vaccination protocols and comprehensive infection prevention strategies has shown measurable benefits in reducing surgical site infections, respiratory complications, and overall perioperative morbidity. Anesthesiologists play a pivotal role in this public health framework, serving as key stakeholders in perioperative optimization through vaccination status assessment, infection control adherence, and risk stratification. The Saudi healthcare system's commitment to infection prevention excellence, aligned with Vision 2030 objectives, provides a unique model for integrating public health principles into anesthetic practice. Current evidence supports the strategic timing of vaccinations relative to elective procedures, with recommendations for postponing elective surgery 3-7 days after inactivated vaccines and 14-21 days following live vaccines. This review synthesizes current evidence, identifies best practices, and proposes future directions for optimizing the vaccination-infection prevention-anesthesia nexus to improve patient outcomes and advance public health goals within the Saudi healthcare landscape.},
}

@article {pmid41710641,
year = {2026},
author = {Alabdulhadi, O and Almashari, Y and Alharbi, M},
title = {Virtual hospitals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A scoping review.},
journal = {Saudi journal of anaesthesia},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {188-196},
pmid = {41710641},
issn = {1658-354X},
abstract = {Virtual health hospitals have been on the rise significantly since COVID-19 globally. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has established several initiatives as part of Vision 2030, where Tele/Virtual Health is key part of this vision. The purpose of this review is to evaluate and establish the expected challenges and the potential value in virtual hospitals in Saudi Arabia. It also aims to identify and analyze gaps in existing knowledge to ideally aid the planning and commissioning of future research on this subject. Results of this review highlight several themes from the literature evolved as follow: 1) need for improvement in Saudi healthcare, 2) emergence of virtual healthcare due to COVID-19, 3) Virtual healthcare has many pros and cons to consider, and, 4) Virtual healthcare has many challenges.},
}

@article {pmid41710827,
year = {2026},
author = {Chapman, SR and Willner, L and Abouafech, A and Roberti, C and Willner, C},
title = {Diagnostic Performance of Artificial Intelligence in Detecting COVID-19 Pneumonia on Chest Imaging.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e101775},
pmid = {41710827},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for rapid, accurate, and accessible diagnostic tools. Chest imaging modalities, including chest radiography (CXR) and computed tomography (CT), provided valuable diagnostic information and prompted the development of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to support image interpretation and improve workflow efficiency. This literature review synthesizes current evidence on the diagnostic performance, limitations, and clinical implications of AI models in COVID-19 pneumonia detection through CXR and CT evaluation. A PubMed search was conducted through October 2025 to identify studies evaluating AI systems for the detection of COVID-19 pneumonia using CXR and CT. Studies reporting diagnostic performance metrics, including sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, or area under the curve (AUC), were included. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) tool. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. CXR-based AI systems demonstrated sensitivities from 80% to 98% and specificities from 82% to 96%, often comparable to radiologist performance. CT-based AI models achieved accuracies between 90% and 96%. AI models demonstrated strong internal diagnostic performance on CXR and CT but showed reduced accuracy with external validation, underscoring limitations related to generalizability and retrospective study designs. AI models demonstrate promising diagnostic performance for detecting COVID-19 pneumonia on chest imaging and may enhance radiologist efficiency. However, challenges related to generalizability, model adaptability, and clinician trust remain. Future research should prioritize external validation and transparent reporting to ensure the safe and effective integration of AI into clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid41710955,
year = {2026},
author = {Anderson, AS},
title = {Vaccines against antimicrobial resistance.},
journal = {Philosophical transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological sciences},
volume = {381},
number = {1944},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1098/rstb.2025.0007},
pmid = {41710955},
issn = {1471-2970},
support = {//Pfizer/ ; GAMRIF//UKRI/MRC Wellcome/ ; GAMRIF//UK Department of Health and Social Care/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Bacterial Vaccines/immunology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; Clostridioides difficile/immunology ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global clinical and economic threat due to the impact that it has on how potentially deadly infections can be treated. Without intervention, it is estimated that AMR will be responsible for 10 million deaths a year by 2050, with a cost of 100 trillion USD. Sustainable prevention strategies are urgently needed to control the spread of AMR in communities and healthcare settings. Vaccines play an important role, not only in protection against emerging drug-resistant pathogens, but also in reducing antibiotic consumption by preventing infections before antimicrobial intervention begins. This review provides an overview of several existing bacterial and viral vaccines that have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing this burden and discusses the importance of development of further vaccines to tackle AMR, with a particular focus on Clostridioides difficile and group B streptococcus, for which long-awaited vaccines may be on the horizon. This article is part of the Royal Society Science+ meeting issue 'Vaccines and antimicrobial resistance: from science to policy'.},
}

Humans
*Bacterial Vaccines/immunology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
Clostridioides difficile/immunology
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology

@article {pmid41712028,
year = {2026},
author = {Chakraborty, C and Bhattacharya, M and Chatterjee, S and Lee, SS},
title = {Long COVID-associated neurological symptoms and brain fog: Understanding the mechanism of neuroinflammation, BBB disruption, diagnostics, and therapeutics.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {401},
pmid = {41712028},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {Humans ; *Blood-Brain Barrier/pathology/metabolism/virology ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis/therapy ; *Neuroinflammatory Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/virology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; Brain/pathology/virology ; *Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/etiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Long COVID affects at least 10% of those with severe disease, and many experience neurological symptoms and brain fog. More than 200 symptoms are reported, yet a detailed understanding remains limited. This article summarizes current knowledge of neurological symptoms, brain fog, molecular mechanisms, neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier disruption, diagnostics, and available therapeutics. Our review highlights the lack of diagnostics and treatments for these patients. We catalog the ongoing clinical trials, identify the urgent need for further therapeutics, and stress that advances in understanding pathophysiology will drive new treatments. We urge prioritizing animal model studies and improving diagnostics to accelerate the discovery and delivery of effective treatments for long COVID neurological symptoms.},
}

Humans
*Blood-Brain Barrier/pathology/metabolism/virology
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis/therapy
*Neuroinflammatory Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/virology
SARS-CoV-2
Animals
Brain/pathology/virology
*Nervous System Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/etiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41712936,
year = {2026},
author = {Jamieson, DJ and Munoz, FM and Rasmussen, SA},
title = {Maternal Immunization.},
journal = {Obstetrics and gynecology},
volume = {147},
number = {5},
pages = {661-678},
pmid = {41712936},
issn = {1873-233X},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/prevention & control ; *Vaccination/methods ; *Immunization/methods ; *Immunity, Maternally-Acquired ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Influenza Vaccines ; },
abstract = {Vaccines administered to women during pregnancy can provide protection against serious infectious diseases for the mother, the child, or both. Maternal immunization boosts the concentration of maternal antibodies that can be transferred across the placenta to directly protect children too young to be immunized. In addition, indirect protection through prevention of maternal infection and breast-milk antibodies can be achieved through maternal immunization. In general, inactivated vaccines are considered safe for pregnant women and fetuses, whereas live attenuated vaccines are avoided due to the theoretical potential risk of infection to the fetus. However, the potential risks of vaccines need to be weighed against the risk of the disease itself and the benefits of vaccination in terms of protection of the mother and child against infectious disease. Tetanus toxoid, reduced diphtheria toxoid, and acellular pertussis (Tdap); influenza; coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines are routinely recommended for all pregnant women in the United States. Maternal immunization has the potential to improve the health of mothers and young children; therefore, other diseases of relevance during this period are now targets of active research and vaccine development, including group B streptococcus (GBS). Similarly, several vaccines can be administered during pregnancy in special circumstances when maternal health, travel, or other special situations arise. This article reviews the current recommendations for vaccination of women during pregnancy.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/prevention & control
*Vaccination/methods
*Immunization/methods
*Immunity, Maternally-Acquired
COVID-19 Vaccines
Influenza Vaccines

@article {pmid41712960,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, X and Xie, Y and Chen, X and Yang, J and Li, R and Gao, W and Yan, Z and Zhou, H and Ye, Z},
title = {Securing Federated Learning With Blockchain in the Medical Field: Systematic Literature Review.},
journal = {Journal of medical Internet research},
volume = {28},
number = {},
pages = {e79052},
pmid = {41712960},
issn = {1438-8871},
mesh = {*Blockchain ; *Computer Security ; Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Telemedicine ; Information Dissemination ; Federated Learning ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The exponential growth of medical data and advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have accelerated the development of data-driven health care. However, the secure and efficient sharing of sensitive medical data across institutions remains a major challenge due to privacy concerns, data silos, and regulatory restrictions. Traditional centralized systems are prone to data breaches and single points of failure, while existing privacy-preserving techniques face high computational and communication costs.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the recent advances in blockchain-based federated learning (BCFL) within the medical field. By exploring the synergistic integration of federated learning and blockchain, this review evaluates how BCFL enhances data security, supports privacy-preserving cross-institutional collaboration, and facilitates practical applications in health care, including medical data sharing, Internet of Medical Things, public health surveillance, and telemedicine.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review using databases such as PubMed, IEEE Xplore, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Boolean logic and domain-specific keywords were used to retrieve studies from 2018 to 2025. After automated deduplication and multistage manual screening, over 100 high-quality papers were included. These works cover BCFL's theoretical foundations, system architectures, application domains, limitations, and future directions.

RESULTS: BCFL frameworks combine the decentralized trust and auditability of blockchain with the privacy-preserving collaborative learning capabilities of federated learning. This integration mitigates risks such as model tampering, data leakage, and a lack of incentives in federated systems. Applications span across cross-institutional medical data sharing, Internet of Medical Things, epidemic forecasting, and telemedicine. Architectures including fully coupled, flexibly coupled, and loosely coupled models offer varying trade-offs between efficiency, scalability, and security.

CONCLUSIONS: BCFL represents a transformative paradigm for secure, collaborative, and privacy-preserving medical AI. By combining decentralized trust, incentive-driven participation, and privacy-enhancing machine learning, BCFL paves the way for next-generation smart health care systems. Despite current technical and practical challenges, BCFL demonstrates strong potential to support precision medicine, global health data collaboration, and large-scale AI deployment in health care.},
}

*Blockchain
*Computer Security
Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
Telemedicine
Information Dissemination
Federated Learning

@article {pmid41713622,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, X and Xu, Y and Jiang, Y and Huang, J and Li, X},
title = {From 2020 to 2025: Comprehensive review Decoding novel structural inhibitors for M[pro] of SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Biochemical pharmacology},
volume = {248},
number = {},
pages = {117791},
doi = {10.1016/j.bcp.2026.117791},
pmid = {41713622},
issn = {1873-2968},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/enzymology ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/chemistry ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Protease Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry ; COVID-19 ; Peptidomimetics/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {While the immediate global threat of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has subsided, the virus remains a persistent cause of regional outbreaks and public health concerns. The main protease (M[pro]), essential for viral polyprotein processing and replication, remains one of the most validated and strategically important antiviral targets. In this comprehensive review, we critically evaluate the landscape of M[pro] inhibitor development from 2020 to 2025, encompassing four key categories: peptidomimetic inhibitors, non-peptide small molecules, natural product-derived compounds, and proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs). By integrating mechanistic insights with structural and technological advancements, this work highlights emerging opportunities for the rational design of next-generation M[pro]-targeted antivirals capable of addressing both current and future coronavirus threats.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/enzymology
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry
*Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism/chemistry
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Protease Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry
COVID-19
Peptidomimetics/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid41713871,
year = {2026},
author = {Dalrymple, WA and Ratliff, JB},
title = {A New Dawn: Resident Recruitment in the United States in the Post-COVID Era.},
journal = {Seminars in neurology},
volume = {46},
number = {3},
pages = {263-274},
doi = {10.1055/a-2794-0336},
pmid = {41713871},
issn = {1098-9021},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; United States ; *Internship and Residency/trends ; *Personnel Selection/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Interviews as Topic ; },
abstract = {The widespread adoption of virtual residency interviews in response to the COVID-19 pandemic led to an explosion in literature comparing the pros and cons of virtual and in-person interviews, but also led to an explosion in already-high residency application and interview volumes. While virtual interviews were substantially cheaper for all involved, there is fear that applicants and programs cannot judge one another as well as during in-person interviews. Likewise, increases in application volumes have made holistic application review more challenging for program directors, but the recent rise in "preference signaling" seems to be an optimal solution to that issue. 2020 also saw increased awareness of systemic inequities in the United States, and medical education and residency recruitment was not immune from scrutiny. Finally, the rise of artificial intelligence could again fundamentally change the resident selection process. It is imperative that the GME community continues to adapt to a changing world.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
United States
*Internship and Residency/trends
*Personnel Selection/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Interviews as Topic

@article {pmid41714597,
year = {2026},
author = {Kasai, M and Sakuma, H and Suzuki, M and Nishiyama, M and Kawata, N and Lin, JJ and Lin, KL and Han, V and Mohammad, SS and Dale, RC and Thomas, T and Muramatsu, K and Mitani, O and Kobayashi, Y and Ishida, K and Abe, Y and Kuki, I and Takanashi, JI},
title = {Life-Threatening SARS-CoV-2-Associated Encephalopathy and Multiorgan Failure in Children, Asia and Oceania, 2022-2024.},
journal = {Emerging infectious diseases},
volume = {32},
number = {2},
pages = {169-179},
pmid = {41714597},
issn = {1080-6059},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Multiple Organ Failure/virology/epidemiology/etiology/mortality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Female ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Brain Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; Infant ; Brain Edema/virology/etiology ; Adolescent ; Pandemics ; Asia/epidemiology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Australia/epidemiology ; Singapore/epidemiology ; Taiwan/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infections in children occasionally manifest with severe neurologic signs. We report a case series of life-threatening encephalopathy associated with SARS-CoV-2 in 25 children in Australia, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan during February 2022-January 2024. All children had severe encephalopathy develop, characterized by rapidly progressive cerebral edema, conditions known as acute shock with encephalopathy and multiorgan failure or acute fulminant cerebral edema. Among the 25 patients, 22 (88%) eventually died; 11 (44%) children died within 24 hours of hospitalization. In addition, 18 (72%) had illness manifest with shock, and 14 (56%) had multiorgan failure develop within 6 hours of neurologic onset. Serum concentrations of cytokines/chemokines including interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly higher within 24 hours of onset than for controls. SARS-CoV-2-associated encephalopathy cases such as those described here represent an emerging neurologic crisis with high mortality rate resulting from rapidly progressive brain edema and multiorgan failure.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
*Multiple Organ Failure/virology/epidemiology/etiology/mortality
SARS-CoV-2
Male
Female
Child
Child, Preschool
*Brain Diseases/virology/epidemiology
Infant
Brain Edema/virology/etiology
Adolescent
Pandemics
Asia/epidemiology
Japan/epidemiology
Australia/epidemiology
Singapore/epidemiology
Taiwan/epidemiology

@article {pmid41715908,
year = {2026},
author = {Qtait, M and Farajalla, F and Alqaissi, N and Jaradat, Y},
title = {Implementation and Impact of Tele-Intensive Care Unit (Tele-ICU) Models on Critical Care Outcomes: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Nursing in critical care},
volume = {31},
number = {2},
pages = {e70401},
doi = {10.1111/nicc.70401},
pmid = {41715908},
issn = {1478-5153},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine/organization & administration ; *Intensive Care Units/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Critical Care/organization & administration ; *Critical Care Outcomes ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Critical Care Nursing ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Tele-Intensive Care Unit (Tele-ICU) models have expanded rapidly in response to global critical care workforce shortages, rising patient acuity and the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic. Contemporary evidence shows substantial variation in Tele-ICU configurations and outcomes, underscoring the need for an updated synthesis that evaluates clinical, staff-related and system-level effects across diverse settings.

AIM: To examine the implementation and impact of Tele-ICU models on critical care outcomes and to compare results across hub-and-spoke, hybrid, consultative and tele-recovery configurations.

STUDY DESIGN: A systematic review was conducted and reported according to PRISMA 2020 and Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between January 2020 and October 2025. Owing to heterogeneity in Tele-ICU models, outcomes and effect measures, a narrative synthesis was performed.

RESULTS: Sixteen studies published between 2020 and 2025 were included, comprising quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods designs conducted across high-, middle- and low-resource healthcare settings. Overall, Tele-ICU implementation was associated with reductions in ICU and hospital mortality, improved adherence to evidence-based clinical protocols, enhanced interprofessional communication and reduced clinician documentation burden. Hub-and-spoke and hybrid Tele-ICU models demonstrated the most consistent clinical and workforce benefits, whereas consultative and low-cost models primarily improved access to specialist care in resource-limited contexts. Across studies, nursing roles expanded to include digital patient surveillance, tele-round coordination, protocol facilitation and virtual family communication. Evidence regarding long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness was limited and inconsistently reported.

CONCLUSIONS: Tele-ICU models enhance clinical performance, support nursing practice and improve system-level responsiveness across diverse contexts. While benefits are consistent, outcomes vary by model design, local infrastructure and implementation readiness. Longitudinal and economic evaluations are needed to inform sustainable, scalable Tele-ICU strategies.

Tele-ICU models support bedside nurses by improving access to specialist input, strengthening adherence to evidence-based care and enhancing patient safety. Evidence shows that Tele-ICU reduces workload, improves communication and enables nurses to coordinate digital monitoring and family updates, contributing to more consistent and equitable critical care delivery, particularly in high-acuity and resource-limited settings.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine/organization & administration
*Intensive Care Units/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Critical Care/organization & administration
*Critical Care Outcomes
SARS-CoV-2
Critical Care Nursing

@article {pmid41716011,
year = {2026},
author = {Roe, K},
title = {Lymphocyte Suppression and Exhaustion, Conventional, and Accelerated.},
journal = {APMIS : acta pathologica, microbiologica, et immunologica Scandinavica},
volume = {134},
number = {2},
pages = {e70175},
doi = {10.1111/apm.70175},
pmid = {41716011},
issn = {1600-0463},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; Killer Cells, Natural/immunology ; Animals ; Neoplasms/immunology ; B-Lymphocytes/immunology ; *Lymphocytes/immunology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The essential mammalian immune system lymphocytes include T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells. Any impairments of their functionalities can have severe consequences, since these lymphocytes each contribute as an interactive team in responding to pathogen infections or cancers. Such impairments include lymphocyte exhaustion, such as T cell, B cell, or natural killer cell exhaustion, or lymphocyte suppression impairing one or more of these cells. Lymphocyte exhaustion can have any intensity from mild to severe, having a severity scale worsened by various exposures and time periods of constant antigenic activation. Lymphocyte exhaustion can potentially have a conventional timing pathway or a hypothesized accelerated (pipelined) timing pathway. Lymphocyte suppressions initiated from pathogen infections are also possible, and this can also impair multiple types of lymphocytes. Finally, accelerated T cell exhaustion is possible, and this can explain several puzzling characteristics of virulent viral pandemics, especially in individuals having pathogen or cancer comorbidities. For instance, accelerated T cell exhaustion can explain a substantial percentage of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic fatalities and also explain the relatively small, but significant, numbers of hyperinflammatory diseases or autoimmune diseases which were initiated in small percentages of individuals by SARS-CoV-2 infections.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
T-Lymphocytes/immunology
Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
Animals
Neoplasms/immunology
B-Lymphocytes/immunology
*Lymphocytes/immunology
Pandemics

@article {pmid41716714,
year = {2026},
author = {Bannister-Tyrrell, M and Teague, K and Strachan, DL and Barrett, A and Marthias, T and Strachan, CE and Doungngern, P and Thakur, N and Kamal, M and Brindle, H and Jinnai, Y and Kato, M and Vogt, F},
title = {Performance and utility of contact tracing for COVID-19 in the WHO South-East Asia Region: implications for future pandemic preparedness.},
journal = {The Lancet regional health. Southeast Asia},
volume = {45},
number = {},
pages = {100728},
pmid = {41716714},
issn = {2772-3682},
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Contact tracing was widely implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, but its real-world performance and utility for decision-making remain poorly understood. A qualitative study was conducted to appraise the performance and utility of contact tracing for COVID-19 in the WHO South-East Asia Region, based on interviews with government and non-governmental organisation technical staff and decision makers in Indonesia, Nepal and Thailand. Our findings highlight the good performance of contact tracing when sufficiently resourced and when case load is low, but reveal declining utility as case incidence increases. This study presents key definitions and a pragmatic approach for appraising contact tracing performance and utility throughout a major health emergency response. Countries should prospectively define objectives for contact tracing, establish monitoring and evaluation frameworks, adjust their contact tracing approaches informed by risk assessments, and consider other available public health interventions when its performance and utility decline.

FUNDING: Governments of Germany and Australia.},
}

@article {pmid41716970,
year = {2026},
author = {Palwankar, P and Palaniappan, J and Kuttappan, K and Pandey, R and Verma, S and Bhardwaj, A and Shunmugavelu, K},
title = {Oral and maxillofacial manifestations of COVID-19.},
journal = {GMS hygiene and infection control},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {Doc05},
pmid = {41716970},
issn = {2196-5226},
abstract = {An overview of oral and maxillofacial manifestations associated with COVID-19 is provided. The symptoms range from white, red and mixed inflamed mucosal areas, necrosis, swelling, ulcers, vesicle, bulla, pustule, pigmentation, depapillated and fissured tongue and bleeding in the ulcers. Pre-COVID symptoms included complete loss of taste, along with reduced sense of taste and alterations in the taste perception.},
}

@article {pmid41717886,
year = {2026},
author = {Cucunawangsih, C and Ansori, ANM and Vatvani, AD and Hariyanto, TI},
title = {Impact of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir on the risk of long COVID in outpatients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Expert review of anti-infective therapy},
volume = {24},
number = {2},
pages = {271-284},
doi = {10.1080/14787210.2026.2636175},
pmid = {41717886},
issn = {1744-8336},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ritonavir/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; Outpatients ; *Antiviral Agents/administration & dosage ; Drug Combinations ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study systematically synthesized existing evidence to evaluate whether outpatient treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir during the acute phase reduces the incidence of long COVID.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic search of Europe PMC, Medline, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library from inception to 15 September 2025. Eligible studies compared COVID-19 outpatients prescribed nirmatrelvir/ritonavir during the acute phase with those who did not receive the drug. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: Nineteen studies met inclusion criteria. Overall, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir use during acute infection was associated with a significant reduction in the likelihood of developing post-COVID-19 condition (OR 0.85; 95% CI: 0.80-0.91; p < 0.00001; I[2] = 99%). Protective effects were consistently observed across multiple clinical domains, including cardiovascular (arrhythmia, ischemic disease, heart failure), pulmonary (dyspnea, COPD), thromboembolic (DVT, PE), neurological (stroke, cognitive impairment, headache), psychiatric (depression), gastrointestinal, metabolic (new-onset diabetes), renal (AKI), and general symptoms (malaise and fatigue). Conversely, no significant differences were noted for cough, asthma, dysautonomia, anxiety, PTSD, sleep disturbances, musculoskeletal pain, or olfactory/gustatory dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS: Early outpatient treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir may mitigate the risk of developing several domains of long COVID, though its benefits are not uniform across all symptom categories.},
}

Humans
*Ritonavir/administration & dosage
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Outpatients
*Antiviral Agents/administration & dosage
Drug Combinations

@article {pmid41718064,
year = {2026},
author = {Trimarco, V and Gallo, P and Ghazihosseini, S and Izzo, A and Rozza, PI and Spinelli, A and Cristiano, S and De Rosa, C and Rozza, F and Morisco, C},
title = {The Role of L-Arginine and Liposomal Vitamin C Supplementation as an Adjunct in Seasonal Respiratory Viral Infection Recovery.},
journal = {Advances in respiratory medicine},
volume = {94},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41718064},
issn = {2543-6031},
mesh = {Humans ; *Arginine/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; *Dietary Supplements ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/drug therapy/virology ; Liposomes ; *Vitamins/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; Seasons ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Respiratory seasonal viral infections remain one of the most important issues in community medicine. The heterogeneity of etiological agents and the characteristics of the hosts airway antiviral defenses account for the complex management of these infections. The clinical consequence of this picture is that, despite the widespread use of vaccination as the primary prevention strategy, the rates of acute respiratory complications remain still high. In addition, they determine post-infectious fatigue and organ dysfunction. Inflammation and oxidative stress are the principal pathogenic mechanisms responsible for clinical complications during respiratory seasonal viral infections. Nowadays, a growing body of evidence indicates that adjunctive nutritional support can contribute to relieve the symptoms during the acute and subacute phases of respiratory viral infections. We assess the data in the literature regarding the combination of L-Arginine and Liposomal Vitamin C as adjuvant treatment for respiratory seasonal viral infections. The database of the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) was searched using the keywords "L-Arginine, Vitamin C, dietary supplements, seasonal respiratory viral infections". The treatment of symptoms during acute and post-acute respiratory viral infections requires an integrated approach that includes vitamins and nutritional supplementation. The combination of L-Arginine and Liposomal Vitamin C seems to represent a nutritional support able to mitigate symptoms occurring during the acute or post-acute phase of infection.},
}

Humans
*Arginine/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*Ascorbic Acid/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
*Dietary Supplements
*Respiratory Tract Infections/drug therapy/virology
Liposomes
*Vitamins/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
Seasons
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy

@article {pmid41718104,
year = {2026},
author = {Nebuwa, CN and Orjichukwu, CK and Orjichukwu, RO and Akpunonu, PK and Ugwu, PC and Nnabuife, SG},
title = {Cardiovascular Complications of Seasonal Influenza in the Pre- and Post-COVID-19 Era: Epidemiology, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41718104},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; *Influenza, Human/complications/epidemiology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/etiology ; Seasons ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Influenza has long been a well-documented contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, particularly among high-risk groups. COVID-19 has notably altered the seasonality and natural history of pandemic influenza, with broad implications for related cardiac complications. This review examines the interaction between influenza and cardiovascular illness, especially myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, stroke, and other acute cardiac events. We review the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on influenza transmission dynamics, public health policy, and the evolving burden of cardiovascular complications. New evidence indicates that both diseases exacerbate endothelial dysfunction, systemic inflammation, and prothrombotic states, thereby increasing cardiovascular risk. A comparative analysis of pre- and post-COVID-19 influenza-related cardiac complications clarifies evolving trends and guides future preventive strategies. In light of the recent resurgence of influenza following the relaxation of COVID-19 mitigation measures, maximizing vaccine coverage and collaborating to manage viral infections in patients with cardiovascular disease are critical. This review focuses on key research needs to understand long-term cardiac consequences and the urgent requirement for targeted public health strategies to counter viral-mediated cardiovascular threats. In the post-COVID era, integrating influenza and COVID-19 vaccination strategies into cardiovascular risk management may represent a critical opportunity to reduce virus-triggered cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
*Influenza, Human/complications/epidemiology
*Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology/etiology
Seasons
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid41718141,
year = {2026},
author = {Manole, OM and Petre, BA and Onofrei, V},
title = {Proteomic Insights into Venous Thromboembolism.},
journal = {Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41718141},
issn = {2076-3271},
mesh = {Humans ; *Venous Thromboembolism/metabolism/diagnosis ; *Proteomics/methods ; Biomarkers/metabolism/blood ; Pulmonary Embolism/diagnosis/metabolism ; Venous Thrombosis/diagnosis/metabolism ; COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {Venous thromboembolism (VTE), including pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT), remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with significant clinical challenges in diagnosis and risk stratification. Traditional diagnostic tools, including clinical prediction scores, D-dimer testing, and imaging, are limited by suboptimal specificity or sensitivity. In this context, proteomics-based approaches have emerged as powerful tools to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of VTE and to identify novel diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. This review synthesizes recent advances in proteomic research relevant to VTE. We searched four databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer Nature, and Wiley) using the keywords "acute pulmonary embolism", "acute venous thromboembolism", and "proteomics". Thirty proteomic studies investigating VTE were examined. Across these studies, proteomic profiling consistently revealed alterations in pathways related to coagulation, inflammation, platelet activation, endothelial dysfunction, and fibrin clot structure. Multiple protein classes, including acute-phase reactants, complement components, coagulation factors, and platelet-derived proteins, have demonstrated potential value in improving diagnostic accuracy and refining prognostic stratification. Proteomic analyses have also revealed distinct molecular signatures between isolated PE and isolated DVT, supporting the concept of biologically heterogeneous VTE phenotypes. Furthermore, emerging evidence from COVID-19-associated thrombosis, cancer-associated VTE, and non-invasive sources such as exhaled breath condensate underscores the expanding clinical relevance of proteomic approaches. Although technical limitations and heterogeneity across studies remain challenges, the integration of proteomic data with clinical and genetic information holds promise for advancing precision medicine in VTE.},
}

Humans
*Venous Thromboembolism/metabolism/diagnosis
*Proteomics/methods
Biomarkers/metabolism/blood
Pulmonary Embolism/diagnosis/metabolism
Venous Thrombosis/diagnosis/metabolism
COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid41718962,
year = {2026},
author = {Sheikhi, RA and Heidari, M and Kahrizsangi, MB},
title = {Mosques as Community Resilience Centers During Disasters: A Systematic Review of COVID-19 Interventions.},
journal = {Journal of community health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41718962},
issn = {1573-3610},
support = {6867//Sahrekord University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
}

@article {pmid41718988,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Gandy, S},
title = {Golgi Fragmentation as a Potential Link Between SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Alzheimer's Disease: Mechanisms and Implications for Neurodegeneration in Long COVID.},
journal = {Sub-cellular biochemistry},
volume = {111},
number = {},
pages = {463-482},
pmid = {41718988},
issn = {0306-0225},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alzheimer Disease/pathology/metabolism/virology ; *COVID-19/pathology/complications/metabolism/virology ; *Golgi Apparatus/pathology/metabolism/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; Animals ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted millions of people worldwide, and recent studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to an Alzheimer's-like neuropathological and biomarker phenotype, as well as clinical symptoms of "brain fog". This raises an intriguing question: "How and where might the molecular pathways underlying SARS-CoV-2 infection and Alzheimer's disease (AD) converge?" One common feature of both SARS-CoV-2 infection and AD is the alteration of the endomembrane system, particularly the fragmentation of the Golgi apparatus. In this review article, we summarize the existing literature on SARS-CoV-2 infection biology and speculate about the potential mechanisms linking Golgi defects, SARS-CoV-2 infection, and neurodegeneration.},
}

Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/pathology/metabolism/virology
*COVID-19/pathology/complications/metabolism/virology
*Golgi Apparatus/pathology/metabolism/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
Animals

@article {pmid41719175,
year = {2026},
author = {Martins Bruno, AC and José de Castro Moura Duarte, F},
title = {Designing Hybrid Work Organization in the Post-Pandemic Era: A Systematic Literature Review.},
journal = {Work (Reading, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10519815261423140},
doi = {10.1177/10519815261423140},
pmid = {41719175},
issn = {1875-9270},
abstract = {BackgroundIn the post-COVID-19 context, hybrid work (HW) expanded rapidly, often without systematic organizational design or alignment to task demands, generating conceptual ambiguities and limited guidance for configuring HW as an organizational system.ObjectiveTo update the conceptualization of HW and identify elements for designing hybrid work organization (HWO) from a task-based perspective.MethodsA systematic literature review was conducted from June to August 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Peer-reviewed English-language articles (2020-2025) were retrieved from Scopus, and grey literature (2022-2025) was incorporated through complementary searches and snowballing. Research quality was appraised using MMAT and AACODS tools. Of 363 records screened, 110 full texts were assessed, and 25 met inclusion criteria.ResultsHW emerges as a sociotechnical phenomenon embedded in the digital transformation of work. A multidimensional lens - spatial, temporal, digital/virtual, and social - applied to task categories (individual, collaborative, coordination) identified key designable elements for HWO. Findings indicate that HW extends beyond fixed remote-on-site ratios, emphasizing intentional alternation, task-fit configurations, and dynamic adjustments as work evolves.ConclusionsHWO is context-specific and adaptive, shaped by task requirements rather than predefined schedules or locations. No single model prevails; instead, tailored configurations reflect the variability of real work. Advancing HW as a sociotechnical system requires rethinking organizational culture and management logic, shifting from presence and control-oriented paradigms toward flexible, task-driven, and performance-focused approaches. Progress depends on treating organizational design as a participatory process that aligns arrangements with demands.},
}

@article {pmid41719449,
year = {2026},
author = {Nilormi, A and Bensimon, CM and Thomas, M and Wiles, S and Wilson, K},
title = {A scoping review of vaccine certificate implementation in Canada and OECD countries during the COVID-19 pandemic: Outcomes and lessons learned.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2622178},
pmid = {41719449},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; Canada/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccination/legislation & jurisprudence ; Public Health ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Vaccine certificates were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to document vaccination status, promote uptake and enable safer reopening of society. While these policies supported public health efforts, their implementation raised operational, ethical and legal concerns, sparking debate about their future use in health emergencies. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize the implementation processes, challenges and outcomes of vaccine certificate systems in Canada and other OECD countries. An academic search was conducted in August 2024, across Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus using controlled vocabulary and key words for sources published from 2020 onward. Grey literature was searched using Google and targeted government and organizational websites. Data were synthesized descriptively and analyzed deductively based on three pre-identified themes - public health, technological, and ethical-legal considerations - derived from the UK Royal Society's framework on COVID-19 vaccine certificate design. The search captured 128 sources (72 academic and 56 gray literature), covering all OECD countries except Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico and Norway. Identified subthemes included: (1) purpose and trade-offs; (2) public health, socio-economic and health system impacts, (3) technological infrastructure and data security; (4) equity and accessibility; (5) privacy and surveillance; and (6) public acceptance and trust. Vaccine certificates aimed to support public health goals but posed challenges in digital implementation, particularly in creating secure and interoperable systems and raised concerns around equity, discrimination and privacy. Vaccine certificates show promise for future public health use. However, their success will depend on addressing ethical concerns, ensuring interoperability and strengthening digital infrastructure, regulations and public trust.},
}

Humans
Canada/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccination/legislation & jurisprudence
Public Health
Pandemics/prevention & control

@article {pmid41719864,
year = {2026},
author = {Chandra, LA and Nugroho, DB and Thobari, JA and Dimaguila, GL and Buttery, J},
title = {Active surveillance methods to identify adverse events of special interest (AESIs) following vaccination against pandemic diseases: A scoping review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {77},
number = {},
pages = {128341},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128341},
pmid = {41719864},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems ; *Product Surveillance, Postmarketing/methods ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Active post-vaccination surveillance is vital for ensuring vaccine safety, particularly in monitoring Adverse Events of Special Interest (AESIs). This scoping review synthesises evidence on methodologies employed in active surveillance studies, with a focus on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.

METHODS: Literature was identified via PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and manual searches, using key terms including influenza, COVID-19, vaccine, and AESI. Two authors independently screened studies and extracted data on study characteristics, methods, and outcomes. Findings were synthesised narratively and presented in tables and figures, following the PRISMA-ScR guideline.

RESULTS: Of 427 included studies, most were published after 2020 (74.0%) and focused on COVID-19 vaccines (69.3%), particularly mRNA platforms (51.3%). The majority were conducted in North America and Europe, with 85.5% from high-income countries; multinational studies accounted for 6.6%, and single-centre studies with national or subnational coverage for 63.0%. Cohort designs predominated (40.5%), mostly retrospective (74.2%), utilising registries (24.0%) and electronic health records (22.4%), including artificial intelligence for signal detection and prediction (2.7%). Nearly half (49.6%) linked multiple data sources, though outcome verification was reported in fewer than half (45.9%). Incidence rates (16.5%) and risk/hazard ratios (14.8%) were the most reported measures. Neurological (21.8%) and cardiac (21.3%) AESIs, particularly Guillain-Barré Syndrome and myocarditis, were most frequently investigated.

CONCLUSION: Active surveillance for vaccine safety has increased but remains concentrated in high-income countries. Methodological approaches to detection, verification, and validation vary widely. Introducing active surveillance methodologies in low- and middle-income countries is crucial to achieving more equitable global monitoring of vaccine safety.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Influenza, Human/prevention & control
Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems
*Product Surveillance, Postmarketing/methods
Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
*Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions/epidemiology

@article {pmid41721085,
year = {2026},
author = {Alvarado-Gamarra, G and Alcala-Marcos, K and Celis, CR and Balmaceda-Nieto, P and Cieza, L and Morán-Mariños, C and Grados-Espinoza, P and Alva-Díaz, C and Ecker, L and Ochoa, TJ and Franchi, LM and Howard, LM and Grijalva, CG and Lanata, CF},
title = {Post-MIS-C cardiovascular outcomes: a systematic review.},
journal = {European journal of pediatrics},
volume = {185},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41721085},
issn = {1432-1076},
support = {D43 TW012468/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; D43TW012468/TW/FIC NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Child ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome/complications ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Limited knowledge and variability in findings exist regarding the resolution of cardiovascular outcomes following Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C). We conducted a systematic review to estimate the frequency of cardiovascular outcomes following MIS-C. A systematic search was conducted in Pubmed/Medline, Scopus, Embase, SciELO, LILACS, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and medRxiv were searched up to February 2024. We included studies reporting cardiovascular events that began in acute MIS-C and persisted after discharge. Screening and data extraction were performed by independent reviewers. We performed a random-effects meta-analysis and assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. Eighty-four studies (n = 4,778) were included; seven had a comparator group. The frequency of cardiovascular outcomes-including coronary abnormalities (Z-score ≥ 2), left ventricle ejection fraction < 55%, diastolic dysfunction, myocarditis, and pericardial effusion-decreased over time, with most resolving by 6 to 9 months. However, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging studies identified myocardial edema and/or fibrosis persisting up to 12 months, and two studies reported coronary abnormalities at 18- to 24-month follow-up. Evidence certainty was very low. Compared to children with COVID-19 or healthy controls, MIS-C showed more cardiovascular events and greater subclinical myocardial dysfunction, as assessed by strain analysis, during a 6-month follow-up. Compared with other etiologies of myocarditis, MIS-C myocarditis was associated with better cardiovascular outcomes but shorter exercise duration and lower aerobic capacity on stress testing. Conclusions: Cardiovascular outcomes following MIS-C improved over time, but certain subclinical cardiac abnormalities persisted up to 12 to 24 months. These findings may support long-term follow-up after MIS-C.Trial registration: Protocol registration number: PROSPERO, CRD42022336784.},
}

Humans
Child
*COVID-19/complications
*Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome/complications
*Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41721422,
year = {2026},
author = {Abuhay, AE and Assaye, MM and Zeleke, TA and Mihret, SA and Getahun, AB and Zeleke, ME and Defersha, KK and Asrie, AE and Anteneh, DE and Mengistie, BA},
title = {Knowledge and attitude toward monkeypox (mpox) among healthcare providers in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41721422},
issn = {2046-4053},
mesh = {Humans ; Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Mpox, Monkeypox/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Mpox is an emerging global health threat with increasing frequency and geographic spread recently. Healthcare providers play a pivotal role in outbreak prevention, early detection, isolation, and response. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the pooled prevalence of knowledge and attitude toward Mpox among healthcare providers in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Hinari, and Google Scholar to identify eligible studies published between 2 July 2015 and 2 July 2025. Data were extracted and managed using Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA version 17. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using a random-effects model. The methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist. Publication bias was examined using funnel plots and Egger's regression test, and statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I[2] statistic. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251123652).

RESULTS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included seven studies from Sub-Saharan Africa, comprising a total of 3379 healthcare providers. The pooled prevalence of adequate knowledge and a positive attitude toward Mpox was 40.52% (95% CI, 30.17-50.88) and 51.20% (95% CI, 44.48-57.91), respectively, with high heterogeneity (I[2] > 90%). Factors associated with higher knowledge included age over 40 years (AOR = 5.90; 95% CI, 1.27-27.41), being married (AOR = 1.58; 95% CI, 1.24-2.01), being a physician (AOR = 6.82; 95% CI, 1.38-33.56), having 5-10 years of work experience (AOR = 7.02; 95% CI, 1.51-32.74), prior information about Mpox (AOR = 1.82; 95% CI, 1.11-2.97), and a history of COVID-19 vaccination (AOR = 1.98; 95% CI, 1.47-2.68). Regarding attitude, higher education (AOR = 2.09; 95% CI, 1.38-3.18) and male sex (AOR = 1.50; 95% CI, 1.12-1.91) were positively associated. Prevalence was pooled through meta-analysis, while associated factors were reported individually from each study, as pooling adjusted odds ratios was not appropriate due to differences in covariates and outcome definitions. These findings should be interpreted with caution due to high heterogeneity, the small number of studies, and uneven geographic representation.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis indicate that knowledge and attitudes toward Mpox among healthcare providers in Sub-Saharan Africa are generally suboptimal. However, these results should be interpreted with caution due to high heterogeneity across studies, the limited number of included studies, and uneven geographic representation. Nonetheless, the findings underscore the need for context-specific capacity-building interventions, including targeted training, improved access to up-to-date clinical guidelines, and enhanced preparedness strategies to support healthcare providers in responding to Mpox and other emerging infectious diseases.},
}

Humans
Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology
*Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Mpox, Monkeypox/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Attitude of Health Personnel

@article {pmid41722060,
year = {2026},
author = {Mousavi, T and Moosazadeh, M and Jalali, H},
title = {Comparison of Azvudine and Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir in Hospitalised Patients With COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70114},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70114},
pmid = {41722060},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ritonavir/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Hospitalization ; Drug Combinations ; COVID-19/virology ; Lactams ; Leucine ; Nitriles ; Proline ; },
abstract = {Azvudine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) and belongs to the family of 2', 3'-dideoxynucleoside (ddNs) that can mimic natural nucleosides and block viral DNA or RNA chain synthesis and prevent viral replication. Since the beginning of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, Azvudine has been used to treat patients with COVID-19. Therefore, the objective of this meta-analysis study was to compare Azvudine and Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir in hospitalised patients. The global online databases were used to identify relevant studies published between January 2019 and October 2024. The quality of all articles was determined using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) checklist. In this study, heterogeneity assay was assessed using the Cochran's Q-test and the I2 index, and STATA software version.14 (StataCorp) was used for statistical analysis. Egger's test, Begg's test, and funnel plot were performed to estimate of the publication bias, and the impact of each study on the overall estimate was assessed using sensitivity analysis. In this study, 19 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis showed that the relative risk of death in the Azvudine treatment group compared with the Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir treatment group was 0.64 (95% CI: 0. 44, 0. 93). These results suggest that treatment with Azvudine may provide significant clinical benefit in patients hospitalised with COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Ritonavir/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Hospitalization
Drug Combinations
COVID-19/virology
Lactams
Leucine
Nitriles
Proline

@article {pmid41723336,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, X and Huang, D and Wang, W and Huang, Y and Huang, C and Wang, G},
title = {Prevalence, risk factors, and early prediction of refractory pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {European journal of pediatrics},
volume = {185},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41723336},
issn = {1432-1076},
support = {2024B1020//Social Public Welfare and Basic Research Special Project of Zhongshan City, Guangdong Province, China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Pneumonia, Mycoplasma/epidemiology/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Risk Factors ; Child ; Prevalence ; Child, Preschool ; Infant ; *Mycoplasma pneumoniae ; Adolescent ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: Refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia (rMPP) poses significant challenges in pediatric care due to delayed recognition and limited systematic evidence. This meta-analysis evaluates the prevalence, risk factors, and predictive accuracy of models for rMPP. We systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science until November 2024 for observational studies involving children aged 0-18 years with rMPP. Study quality was assessed using Newcastle-Ottawa and JBI scales. Data were analyzed via R4.4.2. Fifty-three studies (n = 35,275) revealed an overall rMPP prevalence of 37.8% (95% CI 30.5-45.5%), with significant temporal variation: 33.1% pre-COVID-19, 42.0% during, and 86.5% post-pandemic. Independent risk factors included elevated lactate dehydrogenase (OR = 1.018), C-reactive protein (OR = 1.106), procalcitonin (OR = 1.825), interleukin-6 (OR = 2.440), neutrophil count (OR = 2.955), pleural effusion (OR = 4.469), mucus plugs (OR = 5.456), and older age (OR = 1.188). Eleven prediction models demonstrated high accuracy, with ROC-AUCs of 0.913 (training) and 0.895 (validation).

CONCLUSION:  The prevalence of rMPP in children is significant and has increased markedly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Key biomarkers and clinical features facilitate early risk stratification, and validated predictive models improve clinical decision-making. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted surveillance and customized interventions for high-risk populations.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • Pneumonia caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae in children can be effectively controlled by first-line macrolide therapy. • However, there is still a proportion of children who do not respond well to this treatment regimen and develop refractory Mycoplasma pneumoniae due to macrolide resistance.

WHAT IS NEW: • This review and meta-analysis show the incidence of refractory Mycoplasma pneumonia and its potential risk factors. • Finding the feasibility of constructing a predictive model that facilitates early prediction, to provide evidence-based evidence for further in-depth clinical understanding of this disease.},
}

Humans
*Pneumonia, Mycoplasma/epidemiology/diagnosis/drug therapy
Risk Factors
Child
Prevalence
Child, Preschool
Infant
*Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Adolescent
COVID-19/epidemiology
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41723349,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, D and Li, Y and Chen, P and Zhu, K and Cao, C},
title = {Comparison of the efficacy and safety of selective COX-2 inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41723349},
issn = {1471-2334},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The global epidemic of novel coronaviruses remains severe, and COX-2 selective inhibitors have attracted attention due to their promising clinical potential.

METHODS: Pertinent articles published up to 1 April 2025 were systematically searched and retrieved, including randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. To assess the efficacy of COX-2 selective inhibitors versus other NSAIDs, we analysed five aspects, including death, mechanical ventilation, ICU admission, oxygen uptake, and composite adverse effects.

RESULTS: The results showed that COX-2 selective inhibitors significantly reduced the risk of death, with third-highest SUCRA ranking. Regarding the risk of mechanical ventilation, COX-2 inhibitors were associated with a reduced risk and ranked first according to SUCRA compared with other interventions. COX-2 inhibitors were also effective in reducing the risk of ICU admission and endotracheal intubation, again ranking first by SUCRA. In addition, COX-2 inhibitors demonstrated therapeutic potential in reducing the risk of composite adverse effects compared with other NSAIDs.

CONCLUSION: Although this study shows that COX-2 inhibitors have good promise for the treatment of COVID-19, there is still a lack of high-quality RCTs to support the conclusions, and there is still room for improvement.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: (PROSPERO. CRD CRD42023445987)

THE CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-026-12883-w.},
}

@article {pmid41723405,
year = {2026},
author = {Tosanguan, K and Kessomboon, N and Udomaksorn, K and Nerapusee, O and Laichapis, M and Sakulbumrungsil, R},
title = {Bridging public health emergency and pharmaceutical supply chain preparedness: a scoping review and framework synthesis.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41723405},
issn = {1472-6963},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recent public health emergencies, including the COVID-19 pandemic and large-scale natural disasters, have exposed vulnerabilities in pharmaceutical and health-product supply chains. These events demonstrate that preparedness relies not only on surveillance or clinical capacity but also on the effective management of medicine logistics systems. This scoping review aimed to identify existing assessment tools for public health emergency (PHE) preparedness and health supply chain (HSC) management and to develop an integrated framework that links these two areas to support more comprehensive evaluation of system readiness.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O’Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. MEDLINE (PubMed) and Scopus were searched for records published between January 2002 and July 2024, complemented by grey literature searches and expert consultation. Predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and data were mapped using the Flower Framework, which combines domains of PHE management with pharmaceutical supply chain functions.

RESULTS: Of 3,965 records identified (3,920 from databases and 45 from grey literature), 23 assessment tools met the inclusion criteria. Fourteen tools were developed in academic or research settings and nine in policy or programmatic grey literature. Instruments focused on PHE preparedness tended to emphasize governance, coordination, and core public health capacities, whereas HSC tools highlighted forecasting, procurement, inventory management, and warehousing. Only a few instruments bridged both perspectives.

CONCLUSION: This scoping review reveals that no single instrument currently provides a comprehensive assessment of pharmaceutical system readiness across governance, regulatory, and operational dimensions. While existing tools offer situational benchmarking, they often fail to capture functional synergy and pharmaceutical-specific requirements like cold-chain integrity and regulatory constraints. Synthesizing findings through the Flower Framework, this study proposes an integrated model that bridges the gap between static capacity and real-world resilience, emphasizing the need for functional evaluations—such as stress tests and simulations—to more accurately reflect system adaptability during crises.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-026-14176-z.},
}

@article {pmid41723461,
year = {2026},
author = {Mulumba, M and Oga, J and Baguma, C and Nantaba, J and Ruano, AL},
title = {Health equity and the global social contract: beyond incrementalism and illusionary solidarity.},
journal = {International journal for equity in health},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41723461},
issn = {1475-9276},
abstract = {The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have been celebrated as global social contracts, yet their reliance on voluntary commitments and aspirational targets conceals a structural flaw. By divorcing poverty and inequity from colonial histories, debt regimes, and extractive global finance, these frameworks function as a neocolonial placebo: soothing global conscience while entrenching asymmetries of power and resources. Drawing on examples from debt distress, vaccine apartheid, and intellectual property monopolies during COVID-19, this commentary demonstrates that global health governance operates less as solidarity than as economic containment. Reparative justice provides the necessary rupture. A post-2030 Global Social Contract must impose enforceable obligations on former colonial powers, embed structural restitution through debt and tax justice, and democratise health governance under the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities. Anything less risks reproducing selective generosity while abandoning equity to the logics of extraction and impunity.},
}

@article {pmid41723495,
year = {2026},
author = {Abreu, AR and Gonçalves, F and Oliveira, S and Ribeiro, I},
title = {Workplace violence against healthcare workers: a scoping review of reporting practices, barriers to reporting and institutional responses (2020-2025).},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41723495},
issn = {1472-6963},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Violence against healthcare workers (HCWs) is a widespread global problem that has gained increasing attention due to its substantial impact on HCWs well-being and the quality of care they provide. This scoping review aimed to identify current reporting practices, institutional and organisational barriers to reporting violent incidents against HCWs, and critical research gaps in this area, integrating global evidence with a specific focus on Portugal.

METHODS: Following the methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley (2005), refined by Levac et al. (2010), and reported per PRISMA-ScR (2018) guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (January 2020–June 2025). Studies in English, Portuguese, or Spanish addressing reporting practices, barriers to reporting, digital platforms, or policies regarding WPV against HCWs were included. Two reviewers independently screened and extracted data using a structured matrix, resolving discrepancies by consensus. Results were summarized narratively with frequency analysis.

RESULTS: From the initial 232 records, 35 studies met inclusion criteria, from 19 geographic areas across 5 continents. Most studies originated from Asia and Europe. Verbal violence was the most frequently reported form (20–91%), and over half reported underreporting rates exceeding 50%. The most frequently reported individual barrier was the belief that reporting is ineffective (60%), while the most cited systemic barrier was ineffective reporting systems (63%). National digital platforms reporting included the WVIRS system (California), the Synergic system (Sweden), the White Code system (Turkey), and the NOTIFICA, SAGRIS and HER+ systems (Portugal). Effective strategies to reporting combined staff training with awareness campaigns, supported by leadership engagement and policy frameworks. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified workplace tensions and may have influenced both the occurrence and reporting of violent incidents.

CONCLUSION: Underreporting of workplace violence persists despite the existence of policies and reporting platforms. This review highlights persistent barriers to reporting workplace violence among HCWs and emphasizes the need for user-friendly and supportive reporting systems. Findings call for institutional accountability, better feedback mechanisms, and targeted policies to foster a culture of safety and transparency, both globally and in Portugal.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-026-14244-4.},
}

@article {pmid41723921,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, R and Vafeiadis, M and Shen, F and Hou, Z},
title = {The role of health beliefs in COVID-19 vaccination acceptance: A Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {77},
number = {},
pages = {128379},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128379},
pmid = {41723921},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; *Vaccination/psychology ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; *Health Belief Model ; Adult ; },
abstract = {This study employed a meta-analytic approach to examine the relationships between the Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs and COVID-19 vaccination acceptance. A comprehensive literature search identified 77 eligible studies with a combined sample size of 83,995 participants. Quantitative synthesis of the extracted data revealed that perceived benefits (r = 0.40) was the strongest positive predictor of individuals' vaccine acceptance, indicating a medium-to-large effect. Perceived severity (r = 0.17) and susceptibility (r = 0.18) to COVID-19 were also significant positive predictors, each with small-to-medium effect sizes. Cues to action (r = 0.11) and self-efficacy (r = 0.10) were also positively associated with vaccine acceptance, although the effects were small. In contrast, perceived barriers to vaccination (r = -0.25) were negatively associated with vaccine acceptance, approaching a medium effect in size. Several of these associations were moderated by study characteristics, including how the variables were operationalized (intention, hesitancy, refusal, etc.), the vulnerability of the study sample, the respondent type (parents vaccinating children vs. adults vaccinating themselves), the vaccine development stage, and the variant phase. Overall, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychological mechanisms underlying vaccine acceptance and hesitancy, and offer practical implications for developing targeted communication strategies to promote COVID-19 and other vaccinations.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
*Vaccination/psychology
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
*Health Belief Model
Adult

@article {pmid41724028,
year = {2026},
author = {Moreta-Gil, E and Rivera-Picón, C and Conty-Serrano, R and Polonio-López, B and Martín-Conty, JL and Martín-Rodríguez, F and Sanz-García, A},
title = {Prehospital early warning scores for predicting clinical deterioration of COVID-19 patients: An integrative review.},
journal = {Enfermeria intensiva},
volume = {37},
number = {2},
pages = {500584},
doi = {10.1016/j.enfie.2026.500584},
pmid = {41724028},
issn = {2529-9840},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Triage, and in particular scales, are a tool that allows patients with clinical risk to be managed for early, effective and efficient care.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the most precise and specific prehospital score for the detection of clinical worsening risk in COVID19 patients.

METHODS: The protocol followed for the integrative review was the PRISMA method 2020. A literature search was performed in five databases: Scopus, Cochrane Library, Pubmed, Embase, Prospero and Lit covid-nih-nlm. Based on 19 keywords, 5 inclusion and 5 exclusion points. Finally, 22 articles were selected.

RESULTS: Twenty-two studies were identified that addressed effective outcomes for early measures such as telephone triage, web, protocols or tools such as scales. We compared the functionality of 12 scales in patients with Covid-19, showing that the most important variables for this early assessment of clinical worsening were systolic blood pressure, temperature, oxygen saturation and the need for oxygen supplementation. The best predictive value for clinical deterioration and mortality was obtained by NEWS score, with sensitivities and specificities ranging from 77% to 88%.

CONCLUSIONS: Prehospital scales are still under development, with few research studies and a relative confidence in their statistical values. Nonetheless, it has been observed that the scale that best fit the covid-19 was NEWS with an optimal prediction for patients. This could pave the way for its use under other relevant clinical scenarios, such as acute respiratory infections, exacerbations of chronic diseases or future health emergencies.},
}

@article {pmid41724302,
year = {2026},
author = {Pascual-Alonso, I and Arrebola-Sánchez, Y and Almeida-García, F and Frómeta-Fuentes, T and Acén-Ravelo, T and Del Valle-Pelaiz, S and Escandel-Barreto, A and Ojeda Del Sol, D and Valdés-Tresanco, ME and Sánchez-Ramírez, B and Bergado, G and Chao, L and Fundora Barrios, T and Melchy, E and Chipres-Naranjo, LE and Gutiérrez-Mariscal, M and Charli, JL and Rosenstein, Y},
title = {Biochemistry, physiology and implications in human diseases of mammalian aminopeptidase N: A review.},
journal = {International journal of biological macromolecules},
volume = {350},
number = {},
pages = {151030},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2026.151030},
pmid = {41724302},
issn = {1879-0003},
mesh = {Humans ; *CD13 Antigens/chemistry/metabolism/genetics/antagonists & inhibitors/physiology ; Animals ; *Neoplasms/enzymology ; },
abstract = {Aminopeptidases are proteases that selectively hydrolyze an amino acid residue from the amino terminus of proteins and peptides, leading to their activation or inactivation. These enzymes are predominantly metallopeptidases. One of them, membrane alanyl aminopeptidase, also known as aminopeptidase N (APN, EC 3.4.11.2), a M1 family metallo-aminopeptidase, plays essential roles in mammals. APN regulates pain sensitivity, central nervous system control of blood pressure, the final steps of protein degradation, cell motility and adhesion, and coronavirus entry. Furthermore, upregulated expression of APN has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various human disorders, including cancers, inflammation, and pressure dysregulation. APN is a multifunctional protein, and its ligation or inhibition of enzymatic activity may have therapeutic applications. Here, we focus on human and porcine enzymes as models to review the most important structural and functional features of mammalian APN, its roles in mammalian physiology, and the pathophysiological aspects in humans, with particular emphasis on cancer. We illustrate how APN is a tool for diagnosing and monitoring cancer and other pathologies, and discuss the obstacles to the therapeutic use of its inhibitors.},
}

Humans
*CD13 Antigens/chemistry/metabolism/genetics/antagonists & inhibitors/physiology
Animals
*Neoplasms/enzymology

@article {pmid41724536,
year = {2026},
author = {Carbotti, G and van den Berg, DM and Carvalho, AL and Senore, C and Heijnsdijk, EA and de Koning, HJ and Lansdorp-Vogelaar, I and , },
title = {Developments in the roll-out and performance of CRC screening in Europe.},
journal = {Best practice & research. Clinical gastroenterology},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {102043},
doi = {10.1016/j.bpg.2025.102043},
pmid = {41724536},
issn = {1532-1916},
mesh = {Humans ; *Colorectal Neoplasms/diagnosis/epidemiology/mortality ; Europe/epidemiology ; *Early Detection of Cancer/trends/methods/standards ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Incidence ; *Mass Screening ; },
abstract = {The heterogeneous implementation of colorectal cancer screening programs across Europe makes performance comparison challenging. This study computed and analyzed seven key indicators of screening performance for eighteen European programs between 2011 and 2022. Trends in colorectal cancer incidence and mortality were also examined in relation to when each screening program was introduced. Coverage indicators showed considerable variation across programs but generally increased until the onset of the COVID pandemic. Yield indicators remained stable overall, whereas jumps were associated to protocol changes. In most countries, a decline in incidence followed the introduction of the screening program, whereas the connection of screening with mortality was less evident. The analysis of comparable screening performance indicators over time allows for cross-country and longitudinal monitoring of the programs. The observed decline in incidence following the implementation of fully rolled-out programs highlights the importance and effectiveness of well-organized screening in reducing the burden of the disease.},
}

Humans
*Colorectal Neoplasms/diagnosis/epidemiology/mortality
Europe/epidemiology
*Early Detection of Cancer/trends/methods/standards
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Incidence
*Mass Screening

@article {pmid41724540,
year = {2026},
author = {de Jonge, L and Lansdorp-Vogelaar, I and Doria-Rose, VP and Portillo, I and Novak Mlakar, D and Buron, A and Quintin, C and Espinàs, JA and Plaine, J and Škrjanec, AL and Kofol Bric, T and Binefa, G and Font, R and Bulliard, JL and Chubak, J and Ziebell, R and McCurdy, BR and Rabeneck, L and Senore, C and , },
title = {Global impact of COVID-19 on organized CRC screening programs: lessons learned.},
journal = {Best practice & research. Clinical gastroenterology},
volume = {80},
number = {},
pages = {102047},
doi = {10.1016/j.bpg.2025.102047},
pmid = {41724540},
issn = {1532-1916},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Colorectal Neoplasms/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Early Detection of Cancer/statistics & numerical data/trends/methods ; Retrospective Studies ; Global Health ; *Mass Screening/organization & administration/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pandemics ; Aged ; Female ; },
abstract = {Using a standardized data template, this study retrospectively collected data about colorectal cancer (CRC) screening activity in 2020 and 2021 to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period (2018 or 2019). Data were collected from 17 programs in 14 countries of which 15 were population-based programs. Invitation coverage was decreased by up to 53.7 % in 2020. Participation among those invited was similar in both periods for all programs. The maximum backlog in invitations was less than 7.4 months in 2020 and 3.3 months for 2021. Nine out of 15 programs observed a decrease in the number of detected CRCs in 2020. Four programs showed a positive percentage change in CRCs detected in 2021 relative to the pre-pandemic period. Half of the countries observed a worse stage-distribution in 2020/2021. Overall, organized CRC screening programs operated at lower screening activity, but screening outcomes were similar compared to the pre-pandemic period.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Colorectal Neoplasms/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Early Detection of Cancer/statistics & numerical data/trends/methods
Retrospective Studies
Global Health
*Mass Screening/organization & administration/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2
Male
Middle Aged
Pandemics
Aged
Female

@article {pmid41725107,
year = {2026},
author = {Belland, KM and DeJohn, CA},
title = {Comprehensive Review: Ultraviolet-C (UVC) Disinfection in Aircraft Cabins.},
journal = {Health security},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {35-38},
doi = {10.1177/23265094261424116},
pmid = {41725107},
issn = {2326-5108},
mesh = {*Disinfection/methods ; *Ultraviolet Rays ; Humans ; *Aircraft ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/radiation effects ; Air Microbiology ; },
abstract = {Ultraviolet-C (UVC) disinfection has gained considerable attention as a continuous, real-time method to mitigate the transmission of airborne pathogens within aircraft cabins. Recent investigations have demonstrated its potential to inactivate viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and other emerging infectious agents in situ, thereby reducing both immediate infection risks and broader public health burdens. This commentary evaluates how continuous UVC disinfection-applied in tandem with established preventive measures-may effectively curtail disease transmission, reassure passengers, and inform the future direction of in-flight health and safety standards.},
}

*Disinfection/methods
*Ultraviolet Rays
Humans
*Aircraft
COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/radiation effects
Air Microbiology

@article {pmid41727479,
year = {2026},
author = {Parra-González, M and Nájera-Maldonado, L and Peralta-Cuevas, E and Gutierrez-Onofre, A and Jaimes-López, LA and Juarez-Antonio, JA and Degollado-Hernández, NY and Garcia-Atutxa, I and Villanueva-Flores, F},
title = {Dengue-SARS-CoV-2 interactions: immune crosstalk, variant emergence, and clinical outcomes.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1650425},
pmid = {41727479},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics/physiology ; *Dengue/immunology/epidemiology/virology ; *Dengue Virus/immunology ; *Coinfection/immunology/virology ; Antibody-Dependent Enhancement ; Cross Reactions ; },
abstract = {This review aims to provide an overview of dengue-COVID-19 co-infection, emphasizing recently described immunological, genomic, and eco-epidemiological interactions that may influence clinical outcomes and viral evolution. It brings together molecular evidence, immunological perspectives, and epidemiological insights to summarize current hypotheses and working models of these complex disease interactions. We summarize and critically discuss evidence on antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), cross-reactive immune responses, and cytokine amplification pathways, and propose mechanisms that could underlie exacerbated disease severity. Published clinical data indicate heterogeneity in co-infection outcomes globally, from mild presentations to severe complications, such as hemorrhagic stroke, acute kidney injury, and increased mortality, particularly among populations with prior dengue exposure. Diagnostic complexities arising from serological cross-reactivity underscore the need for simultaneous molecular testing to ensure accurate pathogen identification. Additionally, we review current evidence on reciprocal selective pressures between SARS-CoV-2 variants and dengue serotypes, highlighting potential evolutionary impacts arising from their co-circulation. The available evidence suggests that co-infection may exacerbate inflammatory pathways, lead to increased vascular and organ damage, and complicate patient management. However, definitive clinical evidence for ADE remains inconclusive, underscoring an ongoing need for targeted mechanistic studies. By outlining significant knowledge gaps and summarizing proposed research directions, this review aims to provide a valuable reference for clinicians, immunologists, epidemiologists, and policymakers managing concurrent dengue and COVID-19 outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics/physiology
*Dengue/immunology/epidemiology/virology
*Dengue Virus/immunology
*Coinfection/immunology/virology
Antibody-Dependent Enhancement
Cross Reactions

@article {pmid41727556,
year = {2026},
author = {Millar, BC and Cates, MJ and Torrisi, MS and Round, AJ and Warde, A and Lowery, CJ and Moore, JE},
title = {Antimicrobial Resistance: The Answers.},
journal = {British journal of biomedical science},
volume = {83},
number = {},
pages = {15559},
pmid = {41727556},
issn = {2474-0896},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Drug Resistance, Bacterial ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has caused a global public health crisis, contributing to approximately five million deaths in 2019 and predicted deaths of approximately ten million annually by 2050. This equates to approximately 1.4-fold more deaths annually from AMR in 2050 than the entire COVID-19 pandemic to date. To tackle this AMR pandemic, regulatory and policy frameworks have been prepared at local, national and international levels with multi-faceted proposals and advances encompassing surveillance, diagnostics, infection prevention, antibiotic prescribing and variation of existing and novel treatment approaches. This narrative review primarily focuses on research and development which have been documented over the last five years in relation to therapeutic approaches at various stages in clinical development and the potential role that vaccines can play in the fight against AMR. This review provides an overview on antibacterial drugs, including novel classes of antibiotics, which have been recently approved, as well as combination antibiotic therapy and the potential of repurposed drugs. The potential role of novel antimicrobial, antibiofilm and quorum sensing inhibitors, such as antimicrobial peptides, nanomaterials and compounds from the extreme and natural environments, as well as ethnopharmacology including the antimicrobial effects of plants, spices, honey and venoms are explored. Novel therapeutic approaches are critically discussed in terms of their realistic clinical potential, detailing recent and ongoing trials to highlight the current interest of these approaches, including immunotherapy, bacteriophage therapy, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), antimicrobial sonodynamic therapy (aSDT), nitric oxide therapy and microbiome manipulation including faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT). The potential of predatory bacteria as living antimicrobial agents is also discussed. Importantly, there have been many technological developments which have enhanced bioprospecting and research and development of novel antimicrobials which this review draws attention to, including artificial intelligence, machine learning and Organ-on-a-Chip devices. Finally, key messages from the recent World Health Organization report into the role of vaccines against AMR provides an interesting perspective relating to prevention which can be of significance in tackling the AMR burden.},
}

Humans
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41728596,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, CT and Lim, LJH and Lee, CTM and Heah, AJE and Yeo, DST and Tan, SM},
title = {The utilization of virtual reality in the training of de-escalation of aggression for both providers and users of public and healthcare services from the new millennium to the COVID-19 era: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1657986},
pmid = {41728596},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Virtual reality (VR) is a promising modality for the effective delivery of training in the de-escalation of aggression. This review aims to assess how VR has been utilized in training for the de-escalation of aggression among both providers and users of public and healthcare services from the new millennium to the COVID-19 era (2000-2022).

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with a pre-registered protocol and adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Seven key databases were searched, yielding 2373 studies for screening, of which 15 were included. Quality appraisal was performed using the widely used Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool.

RESULTS: VR training for the de-escalation of aggression was implemented using a variety of approaches, ranging from verbal interaction and emotion-recognition tasks to selection from multiple-choice response menus. Most studies assessed participants' responses to the intervention, but none evaluated whether VR training had an impact at the organizational level. Overall, VR training content, modes of interaction, and reported improvements in participants' confidence were viewed positively. However, some studies reported limitations related to the emotional impact, realism of virtual characters, and learning effectiveness. Additional features that may enhance the VR experience were discussed, with personalized, context-specific scenarios identified as an important area for development.

CONCLUSION: Larger-scale studies are required to determine which specific training domains may benefit most from VR-based approaches, given the heterogeneity of populations and methodologies across studies conducted between 2000 and 2022.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42022307138, identifier CRD42022307138.},
}

@article {pmid41729334,
year = {2026},
author = {Gaddafi, MS and Lawal, H and Musawa, IA and Garba, B and Goni, MD and Jolayemi, KO and El-Yakub, AU and Jibril, AH and Saeed, SI and Bitrus, AA and Salman, M and Fasina, FO and Yakubu, Y},
title = {Serological and virological evidence of MERS-CoV infection among dromedary camels in Africa: a systematic review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Veterinary research communications},
volume = {50},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41729334},
issn = {1573-7446},
}

@article {pmid41729699,
year = {2026},
author = {Hoy-Schulz, YE and Damhorst, GL and Lam, WA},
title = {Accelerating Diagnostics for Pandemic Preparedness.},
journal = {Annual review of analytical chemistry (Palo Alto, Calif.)},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {279-306},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-anchem-082824-031734},
pmid = {41729699},
issn = {1936-1335},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology ; *Pandemics ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification/genetics ; Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques ; Molecular Diagnostic Techniques/methods ; COVID-19 Testing/methods ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {Diagnostics are central to pandemic preparedness, guiding surveillance, clinical care, and public health response. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed limitations in diagnostic infrastructure but also accelerated innovation across assay types, created accessible testing mechanisms, and demonstrated the value of public-private partnerships. This review outlines the critical roles diagnostics play across pandemic phases, from early detection to post recovery surveillance. We review the current diagnostic landscape for pandemic priority pathogens and unmet needs and challenges and examine recent advances in analytical technologies, including isothermal amplification, CRISPR-based methods, alternative sample types, and novel platforms, with a focus on their potential for rapid deployment and field use. We also explore the emergence of diagnostic accelerators and biorepositories that support assay validation and global test availability. For analytical chemists, pandemic preparedness presents a call to action: to develop, validate, and translate innovative tools that can adapt to meet urgent diagnostic needs during future health emergencies.},
}

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

@article {pmid41730209,
year = {2026},
author = {Dobrescu, A and Pinte, L and Sharifan, A and Gadinger, A and Moser, I and Cooper, C and Gartlehner, G},
title = {Effectiveness, Comparative Effectiveness, and Harms of COVID-19 Vaccines in Adults Who Are Not Pregnant or Immunocompromised: A Rapid Review for the American College of Physicians.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {5},
pages = {673-684},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-05044},
pmid = {41730209},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/mortality ; *Vaccine Efficacy ; Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; United States ; Immunocompromised Host ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant continues to pose a global health burden.

PURPOSE: To assess the effectiveness, comparative effectiveness, and harms of COVID-19 vaccines in nonpregnant, nonimmunocompromised adults.

DATA SOURCES: Medline via Ovid and DynaMedex from January 2022 to September 2025.

STUDY SELECTION: Two reviewers independently selected English-language randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized studies of interventions (NRSIs).

DATA EXTRACTION: One reviewer extracted data and assessed the certainty of evidence (CoE), and a second reviewer verified; 2 reviewers independently assessed risk of bias.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Five RCTs and 18 NRSIs were included. In adults of all ages, Omicron-adapted vaccination probably reduces all-cause mortality (vaccine effectiveness [VE] ranged from 26.6% [95% CI, 5.5% to 42.3%] to 75.2% [CI, 70.6% to 79.9%]; moderate CoE) and COVID-19-related hospitalization (VE ranged from 16.6% [CI, 6.5% to 25.8%] to 67.8% [CI, 63.1% to 72.5%]; moderate CoE) compared with no Omicron-adapted vaccination. When administered more than 365 days after the prior vaccine, it probably reduces all-cause mortality (VE, 36.1% [CI, 14.8% to 54.1%]; moderate CoE) and COVID-19-related hospitalization (VE, 22.2% [CI, 11.4% to 32.0%]; moderate CoE). When administered earlier, it may result in no difference in COVID-19-related hospitalization. Omicron-adapted vaccination may increase myocarditis (incidence rate ratio, 2.7 [CI, 1.0 to 7.0]; low CoE) in adults aged 50 years or older. The mRNA-1283.222 bivalent vaccine probably results in no difference in all-cause mortality or serious adverse events compared with mRNA-1273.222 in adults of all ages.

LIMITATIONS: No RCTs assessed the effectiveness of Omicron-adapted versus no Omicron-adapted vaccination. Evidence on harms was limited.

CONCLUSION: Omicron-adapted vaccines improve protection compared with no Omicron-adapted vaccines, particularly when administered more than 365 days after the prior vaccination.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: American College of Physicians. (PROSPERO: CRD420251136017).},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control/mortality
*Vaccine Efficacy
Adult
SARS-CoV-2
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
United States
Immunocompromised Host
Female

@article {pmid41730216,
year = {2026},
author = {Qaseem, A and Obley, AJ and Harrod, CS and Wilt, TJ and Carroll, K and Humphrey, LL and , and Haeme, R and Krain, A and Poonacha, T and Saini, SD and Vigna, C},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccines for 2025-2026 in Adults Who Are Not Pregnant or Immunocompromised: Rapid Practice Points From the American College of Physicians.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {5},
pages = {728-733},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-05026},
pmid = {41730216},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Adult ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Female ; United States ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Immunocompromised Host ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {DESCRIPTION: The American College of Physicians (ACP) developed these rapid practice points addressing the effectiveness, comparative effectiveness, and harms of Omicron-adapted COVID-19 vaccines in adults (aged ≥18 years) who are not pregnant or immunocompromised.

METHODS: The ACP Population Health and Medical Science Committee developed the rapid practice points on the basis of a rapid review by the ACP Center for Evidence Reviews at Cochrane Austria and national disease surveillance data on the epidemiology and baseline risks for COVID-19.

UNLABELLED: The following practice points apply to those who are not pregnant or immunocompromised.

PRACTICE POINT 1: Adults aged 65 years or older should receive an updated 2025-2026 mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine.

PRACTICE POINT 2: Adults aged 18 to 64 years at increased risk for severe COVID-19 should receive an updated 2025-2026 mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine.

PRACTICE POINT 3: Adults aged 18 to 64 years who are not at increased risk for severe COVID-19 may consider receiving an updated 2025-2026 mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Adult
Middle Aged
Aged
Female
United States
Young Adult
Adolescent
Immunocompromised Host
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41730387,
year = {2026},
author = {Lefere, S and Koot, BGP and Mann, JP and Bufler, P and De Bruyne, R and Hudert, CA},
title = {Update in clinical science: MASLD in children and adolescents.},
journal = {Journal of hepatology},
volume = {84},
number = {6},
pages = {1164-1177},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhep.2026.02.016},
pmid = {41730387},
issn = {1600-0641},
mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Fatty Liver/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis/etiology ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; COVID-19/complications ; Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Paediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an increasingly common liver disease, with an estimated global prevalence of up to 7.5% and growing concern regarding hepatic and extrahepatic complications even in early life. In this paper, we review recent advances in epidemiology, genetics, early-life risk factors, natural history and comorbidities, focusing on emerging data published in the last 3 years. We also outline a practical approach to the management of MASLD in children, integrating newly developed non-invasive tests. Lastly, we highlight key research questions to be studied in the coming years.},
}

Humans
Child
Adolescent
*Fatty Liver/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis/etiology
Risk Factors
Prevalence
COVID-19/complications
Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

@article {pmid41730537,
year = {2026},
author = {Yu, AYA and Stergiopoulos, E and Sukhera, J and Goldbloom, D and Martimianakis, MAT and Smith, S and Zaheer, J},
title = {A qualitative analysis of the barriers and facilitators to physicians and trainees seeking help for suicidality.},
journal = {CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l'Association medicale canadienne},
volume = {198},
number = {7},
pages = {E238-E248},
pmid = {41730537},
issn = {1488-2329},
mesh = {Humans ; *Physicians/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Suicidal Ideation ; Qualitative Research ; *Suicide/psychology ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology ; *Help-Seeking Behavior ; Social Stigma ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Suicide Prevention ; Adaptation, Psychological ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Suicidal thoughts among physicians are common and increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet many hesitate to seek mental health support. We sought to examine factors influencing seeking help for suicidality among physicians and trainees, their narrative descriptions of suicidality, and the impacts of losing a physician in their lives to suicide.

METHODS: We conducted a qualitative analysis of published narratives from physicians and trainees describing experiences in seeking help for suicidality. We systematically searched MEDLINE and PsycInfo (March 2000 to March 2023) and manually reviewed reference lists of included articles. We analyzed narratives and generated themes using reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Across 52 narratives, authors commonly described preceding pressures, ways of coping, and intense emotional distress and altered self-perceptions. Barriers to seeking help were rooted in pressures that contributed to suicidality, including a medical culture that values achievement and stoicism, the growing severity of illness, stigma regarding mental health, fears about losing one's license, reluctance to burden others, and limited access to timely, confidential care. In contrast, facilitators to seeking help included access to confidential services, mental health literacy and, most notably, the care and role modelling of seeking help by others. Narratives advocated for cultural and systemic changes within the profession.

INTERPRETATION: Intense pressures to achieve in medicine discourage physicians from acknowledging distress and seeking help, but role modelling of seeking help can attenuate the stigma. Understanding these intersecting factors can inform changes needed to develop targeted suicide prevention strategies for physicians and promote physician well-being.},
}

Humans
*Physicians/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Suicidal Ideation
Qualitative Research
*Suicide/psychology
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology
*Help-Seeking Behavior
Social Stigma
SARS-CoV-2
Suicide Prevention
Adaptation, Psychological

@article {pmid41730897,
year = {2026},
author = {Soriano, JB and Lumbreras, S},
title = {The rise of artificial intelligence in respiratory primary care and pulmonology: a scoping review.},
journal = {NPJ primary care respiratory medicine},
volume = {36},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41730897},
issn = {2055-1010},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Primary Health Care ; *Pulmonary Medicine/methods ; COVID-19/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing respiratory disease management, from diagnosis to population lung health. This scoping review synthesizes the most promising uses of AI in respiratory medicine, with a particular focus on pulmonologists and family physicians interested in lung health. In diagnostics, deep-learning systems streamline chest-imaging workflows by triaging radiographs, detecting COVID-19 pneumonia, and classifying lung nodules on CT. In pulmonary function testing, algorithms detect technical errors and classify spirometric patterns, some claiming to outperforming pulmonologists. Acoustic analysis of cough, breathing, and speech captured on smartphones or wearables offers non-invasive decision support. For monitoring and prediction, AI helps shorten weaning from mechanical ventilation and guides closed-loop strategies for acute respiratory distress. In chronic care, connected devices integrated with environmental data help to forecast asthma and COPD exacerbations, while telehealth and predictive models enable earlier, more personalized interventions. Additional gains are emerging in paediatrics, sleep medicine, lung ultrasounds, and public health. Realizing these benefits will require rigorous multicentre validation and real-world evidence. It will also require proactive bias detection and mitigation with inclusive sampling and equity audits. High-quality, interoperable data and explainable models are needed to enable human oversight. Practical issues such as digital literacy, device access, and usability for children, older adults, and other vulnerable populations also matter for applications requiring patient interaction. With sustained collaboration among clinicians, engineers, AI experts, industry, regulators, and scientific societies, AI can increase the time invested in a satisfactory clinician-patient relationship. With all likelihood, AI can also measurably improve efficiency and accuracy across multiple domains of respiratory care.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Primary Health Care
*Pulmonary Medicine/methods
COVID-19/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41732619,
year = {2026},
author = {Manoukian, G and Kundukulam, S and Asatorian, G and Johnson, DM and Masood, MH and Venugopal, A and Manoukian, M and Aswathappa, S},
title = {Post-COVID Syndrome in Patients With Comorbid Hypertension or Diabetes: A Narrative Review of Long-Term Outcomes.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e102117},
pmid = {41732619},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Post-COVID syndrome (PCS), or long COVID, refers to a cluster of enduring symptoms that extend beyond the acute phase of the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. Acute infection predominantly impacts the respiratory tract, but there is growing evidence for the multisystem involvement, such as cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological, to be responsible for the prolonged presentation in PCS. Underlying cardiometabolic vulnerability may contribute to a high degree of susceptibility in patients with comorbidities like hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM). This narrative review summarizes current literature regarding PCS in patients with HTN and/or DM, focusing on proposed pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and reported long-term outcomes. In these populations, PCS has been linked across studies to processes including endothelial dysfunction, chronic low-grade inflammation, autonomic imbalance, and potential dysregulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Persistent cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurocognitive symptoms are reported, but the magnitude and patterns of risk vary across studies, while comparative findings across HTN and DM remain heterogeneous. Symptoms reported frequently include fatigue, cognitive impairment ("brain fog"), and psychological distress, supporting the multisystem complexity of PCS. Although, previous work has indicated that cardiometabolic comorbidities could interact and moderate PCS severity and persistence, there is an important shortfall of both causality and prognosis, as well as the management of PCS. Longitudinal studies are needed for future research regarding risk stratification, disease course, and targeted interventions in individuals with PCS with comorbid high blood pressure and diabetes.},
}

@article {pmid41733130,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, JW},
title = {The landscape of aerosol transmission after COVID-19.},
journal = {Current opinion in pulmonary medicine},
volume = {32},
number = {3},
pages = {182-187},
doi = {10.1097/MCP.0000000000001263},
pmid = {41733130},
issn = {1531-6971},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/transmission ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Aerosols ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Infection Control/methods/organization & administration ; *Coronavirus Infections/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review describes how the COVID-19 pandemic stimulated a radical shift around the concepts and definitions of aerosol transmission, and how this new understanding led to a rethink around related infection control interventions that were vital to reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2, and, potentially, other respiratory viruses.

RECENT FINDINGS: A revision of the terminology for aerosol-transmitted pathogens by the WHO, together with its accompanying open access platform (ARIA), to allow users to define their own exposure scenarios and calculate related transmission risks, are just two of many multidisciplinary collaborations that have paved the way for a more effective pandemic response in the future, for aerosol-transmitted, novel pathogens.

SUMMARY: A multipronged approach is needed for any next pandemic, including expertise from laboratory microbiologists and virologists, clinical infectious diseases and infection control teams, public health physicians and epidemiologists, aerosol scientists and engineers. We need to develop a rapid evidence pipeline to collate robust scientific data about any new pathogen, how it is transmitted, how it infects and affects humans, and how to control, treat and prevent it. This article briefly outlines how far we have come and proposes some options to better prepare for the next pandemic.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/transmission
SARS-CoV-2
Aerosols
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Infection Control/methods/organization & administration
*Coronavirus Infections/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/transmission/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41733396,
year = {2026},
author = {Henjeroei, FM and Nosratabadi, N and Pourghadamyari, H and Anaeigoudari, A and Sedghy, F and Nosratabadi, R},
title = {Neutrophils in Coronavirus Disease 2019: Guardians or Triggers of Immunopathology?.},
journal = {Cell biochemistry and function},
volume = {44},
number = {2},
pages = {e70186},
doi = {10.1002/cbf.70186},
pmid = {41733396},
issn = {1099-0844},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/pathology ; *Neutrophils/immunology/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Extracellular Traps/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism/immunology ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a respiratory viral disease with a wide range of clinical symptoms that emerged in December 2019. Innate immunity serves as a rapid immune system that can fight off pathogens before they can spread and cause an active infection. Neutrophils, the most abundant innate immune cells, are the first cells to migrate to the site of infection, where they defend against invading pathogens. Once activated at the inflammatory site, neutrophils mediate host protection through multiple mechanisms, including the phagocytosis of pathogens, the release of antimicrobial and pro-inflammatory enzymes, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the extrusion of their chromatin to form neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) that bind to extracellular pathogens. Furthermore, neutrophils can move toward the source of the stimulus through a mechanism called chemotaxis, which is mediated by adhesion molecules and chemokine-chemokine receptor axes. However, neutrophil overactivation can have deleterious effects on various organs through the induction of cytokine storms, ROS production, and NET formation. Moreover, the contribution of distinct neutrophil subsets and their plasticity over the course of infection and recovery remain poorly understood. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the interplay between neutrophils and SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the most important mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, to advance our understanding of this disease.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/pathology
*Neutrophils/immunology/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Extracellular Traps/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Reactive Oxygen Species/metabolism/immunology

@article {pmid41733677,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, X and Schröder, HC and Neufurth, M and Müller, WEG},
title = {Mucosal Wound Repair: Reinforcement of Respiratory Mucus Barrier Function by Inorganic Polyphosphate.},
journal = {Progress in molecular and subcellular biology},
volume = {63},
number = {},
pages = {175-207},
pmid = {41733677},
issn = {0079-6484},
mesh = {Humans ; *Polyphosphates/pharmacology ; *Respiratory Mucosa/drug effects/metabolism/pathology ; *Mucus/metabolism/drug effects ; *Wound Healing/drug effects ; Mucins/metabolism ; Animals ; COVID-19 ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; },
abstract = {Epithelial cell damage affects not only the skin, which covers the external surface of the human body, but also the non-keratinized epithelia, the mucosa, that lines the surfaces of internal organs, including the nasopharynx and lungs. This mucosa is characterized by a moist surface formed by the mucus overlying the epithelial cells. In the respiratory tract in particular, mucosa cells are constantly exposed to large amounts of environmental pathogens and stressors, including bacteria and viruses inhaled as aerosols. Therefore, mucins, a group of glycoproteins that constitute a major component of the mucus, play an important role in the innate immune defense provided by the protective mucus shield. This barrier function of the mucus can be disrupted by a number of agents, such as fine dust (particulate matter). Recent results have shown that inorganic polyphosphate (polyP), which can be administered, for example, in the form of a nasopharyngeal spray, offers a promising way to strengthen or repair impaired mucus function. This chapter describes the structure and formation of the mucus and its mucin building blocks, as well as the mode of action of polyP and drug-loaded polyP nanoparticles in restoring the mucus barrier, particularly with regard to their protective function against coronavirus infection.},
}

Humans
*Polyphosphates/pharmacology
*Respiratory Mucosa/drug effects/metabolism/pathology
*Mucus/metabolism/drug effects
*Wound Healing/drug effects
Mucins/metabolism
Animals
COVID-19
Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid41734553,
year = {2025},
author = {Xiao, K and Li, L and Zhang, X and Ye, Y and Yao, Y and Liu, Y and Chen, W and Wang, X and Gu, C and He, M and Liang, L and Liu, YC and Zhu, Z},
title = {Global prevalence of dry Eye: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Contact lens & anterior eye : the journal of the British Contact Lens Association},
volume = {49},
number = {2},
pages = {102627},
doi = {10.1016/j.clae.2026.102627},
pmid = {41734553},
issn = {1476-5411},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dry Eye Syndromes/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Male ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Dry eye significantly impacts global quality of life and productivity, yet existing epidemiological data remain fragmented and outdated, hindering effective prevention and management strategies. This study aimed to estimate the global prevalence of dry eye and examine variations across regions, demographics, diagnostic criteria, study settings, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library identified 119 cohort or cross-sectional studies involving 15,251,528 participants. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. A random-effects model pooled prevalence estimates, with subgroup analyses exploring heterogeneity.

RESULTS: The global pooled prevalence of dry eye was 34.6% (95% CI: 30.2%-39.4%). Regional disparities were pronounced, with the highest prevalence in Africa 43.9% (95% CI: 31.5%-57.2%) and the lowest in North America 20.9% (95% CI: 8.2%-43.8%). Higher rates were observed in females 39.1% (95% CI: 32.8%-45.8%) vs. males 30.8% (95% CI: 24.8%-37.7%), individuals aged > 40 years 37.0% (95% CI: 29.1%-45.7%) vs. ≤ 40 years 35.0% (95% CI: 25.4%-46.0%), institutional settings 45.2% (95% CI: 36.2%-54.5%), and during COVID-19 44.5% (95% CI: 28.0%-62.2%). Diagnostic criteria significantly influenced estimates, ranging from 6.9% (95% CI: 1.9%-21.7%) (ICD-9-based) to 53.8% (95% CI: 46.7%-60.8%) (OSDI ≥ 13).

CONCLUSIONS: Dry eye represents a major global public health challenge, with prevalence shaped by geographic, demographic, environmental, and methodological factors. The pandemic exacerbated dry eye burden, underscoring the urgency for standardized diagnostic protocols and targeted interventions to mitigate its growing impact.},
}

Humans
*Dry Eye Syndromes/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Global Health/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Male
Pandemics

@article {pmid41734932,
year = {2026},
author = {Dræbel, TA and Birhanu, Z and Lien, L and Soerensen, JB and Andersen, LS and Terefe Tucho, G and Mekonnen, H},
title = {Mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on frontline healthcare workers in Ethiopia: a scoping review of associated mental health risk and protective factors.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {e107175},
pmid = {41734932},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; Ethiopia/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Health Personnel/psychology ; *Mental Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; Protective Factors ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The mental health impacts of COVID-19 on frontline healthcare workers have been reported globally; however, there is limited evidence from low-income countries such as Ethiopia. We reviewed the literature to understand how COVID-19 impacted the mental health of frontline healthcare workers, including the associated risk and protective factors.

DESIGN: A scoping review of peer-reviewed research was conducted between 2020-2025 to explore the mental health and well-being of frontline healthcare workers in Ethiopia during COVID-19. The process adhered to the guidelines for data extraction outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. Our search identified 35 studies, of which 29 studies were included in the final synthesis.

DATA SOURCES: Three online databases, PubMed, Web of Science and PsycInfo, were systematically searched for data.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Studies were considered for inclusion in the review if they focused on mental health conditions and psychosocial well-being among healthcare workers during COVID-19 in Ethiopia. Studies were only included if published in English and excluded if they were conference abstracts, case studies, reviews, commentaries, contained incomplete data or lacked variables of interest.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data extraction was conducted manually by two reviewers by using a data extraction sheet created in Excel.

RESULTS: Most frontline healthcare workers experienced symptoms of insomnia, psychological distress, stress, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression during COVID-19. Female frontline healthcare workers, nurses, midwives and laboratory technicians reported higher rates of adverse mental health outcomes. Our results found that being married, living together with a spouse and having a high educational level were risk factors for adverse mental health outcomes.

CONCLUSION: The mental health and well-being of frontline healthcare workers is at risk during a global health crisis; however, there is a limited understanding of how to protect the mental health of frontline healthcare workers in low-income countries, such as Ethiopia, at such a critical time. Additional research is needed to better inform mental health preparedness interventions for frontline healthcare workers in these contexts, particularly given predictions of another pandemic occurring within the next decade.},
}

Humans
Ethiopia/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Health Personnel/psychology
*Mental Health
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
Protective Factors

@article {pmid41735249,
year = {2026},
author = {Du, S and Hu, X and Li, P and Xu, S and Kim, M and Liu, X and Zhan, P},
title = {Antiviral drug discovery and development: challenges and future directions.},
journal = {Signal transduction and targeted therapy},
volume = {11},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41735249},
issn = {2059-3635},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/chemistry ; *Drug Discovery/trends/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *COVID-19/virology ; Artificial Intelligence ; *Drug Development ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has stimulated extensive endeavors toward the development of therapeutic interventions targeting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and human proteins for viral infection control, encompassing numerous potential drugs and thousands of patients participating in clinical trials. These concerted efforts have resulted in significant advancements in antiviral drug discovery and development. In this review, we present a comprehensive timeline detailing the development of antiviral drugs, tracing the progression from early viral inhibitors to modern broad-spectrum antiviral agents. We also outline the current status of advancements in antiviral drug discovery, encompassing target-based strategies, innovative mechanism-based approaches, and pharmacokinetic optimization. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges and future prospects gained from COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, covering knowledge of artificial intelligence strategies, the utilization of medicinal chemistry tools, and advancements in nanotechnology applications. The application of artificial intelligence in drug discovery is increasingly prevalent, particularly in the areas of protein structure prediction, drug target identification, and bioactivity forecasting. Nanotechnology has played a crucial role in the delivery of antiviral drugs and the development of vaccines, exemplified by the use of lipid nanoparticles in mRNA vaccines. Additionally, we highlight potential future directions for drug discovery, such as targeting membraneless organelles (liquid‒liquid phase separation).},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/chemistry
*Drug Discovery/trends/methods
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*COVID-19/virology
Artificial Intelligence
*Drug Development

@article {pmid41735986,
year = {2026},
author = {Lutz, CS and Zhang, H and Knoll, MD and Sparrow, EG and Chen, H and Feikin, DR},
title = {Respiratory syncytial virus positivity among hospital admissions for acute respiratory illness in children younger than 5 years of age in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41735986},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {INV-005318/GATES/Gates Foundation/United States ; INV-005318/GATES/Gates Foundation/United States ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To estimate the proportion RSV-positive among children aged < 5 years hospitalized with ARI in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), where 97% of RSV mortality occurs.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature search for studies conducted pre-COVID-19 and published 2010—2022 (PROSPERO registration CRD42022361351). We estimated the RSV percent positivity and 95% confidence interval (CI) using random-effects meta-analyses. We assessed heterogeneity in RSV percent positivity using subgroup analyses and univariable meta-regression models. We assessed the influence of study sample size in sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS: Seventy-three studies conducted in 37 LMICs were included. The summary estimate of percent RSV-positive from the meta-analysis of children < 5 years hospitalized with ARI was 26.2% (95% CI: 24.3–28.3%), ranging from 18.9% (16.4–21.6%) among children 6– < 60 months to 41.3% (36.4–46.4%) among children 0– < 6 months. Only five studies included children aged < 2 months, but RSV positivity was high among this group (40.2% [35.8–44.7%]). Percent positivity stratified by WHO region ranged from 23.6% in the Africa and Southeast Asian regions to 37.5% in the European region. RSV positivity was similar across country income groups. Univariable meta-regression models indicated that there was significant heterogeneity in RSV percent positivity across subgroups defined by mid-year of the study period, WHO region, number of study sites, recruitment method, hospital type, and specimen type (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: RSV detection was high among children aged < 5 years hospitalized with ARI in LMICs across all WHO regions, especially among infants aged < 6 months, among whom RSV may account for almost up to one-half of all ARI hospital admissions. Recent WHO-recommended RSV immunization for all countries may protect young infants aged < 6 months against severe RSV disease.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-026-26743-4.},
}

@article {pmid41736159,
year = {2026},
author = {Soriano Puig, A and Monforte, V and Camprubí-Rimblas, M and Artigas, A and Ceccato, A},
title = {Biomarker-guided use of corticosteroids in pneumonia.},
journal = {Pneumonia (Nathan Qld.)},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41736159},
issn = {2200-6133},
abstract = {Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Although corticosteroids have been proposed as immunomodulatory, controversies surrounding the results of clinical trials have limited their widespread use. This review aims to determine which biomarker-guided corticosteroid treatment for CAP is generally agreed upon in the latest published studies and to discuss the main aspects to be taken into consideration based on lessons learnt from patients with conditions such as influenza, SARS-CoV-2 infection or the recently identified subphenotypes in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Most studies have demonstrated that high C-reactive protein concentrations at the time of admission are associated with a hyperinflammatory state and that patients are more likely to benefit from corticosteroid treatment if they have high concentrations. High levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) were used as an inclusion criterion in one clinical trial, demonstrating that treatment failure was reduced in the corticosteroid group. A post-hoc analysis of the results of several studies also showed that CRP levels above 200 mg/L were associated with benefits in patients receiving corticosteroids. Recent guidelines have proposed the use of corticosteroids in patients with severe CAP or septic shock. Corticosteroids could be more beneficial for patients with a hyperinflammatory subphenotype; however, there are currently no prospective studies evaluating this approach. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of biomarkers in personalised medicine for patients with CAP. In the meantime, patients with severe CAP or high CRP levels should be treated with corticosteroids.},
}

@article {pmid41736351,
year = {2026},
author = {V Rey-Matias, BM and S Ignacio, ML and D Leochico, CF and Rathore, FA},
title = {Telerehabilitation for the Evaluation and Management of a Dizzy Patient: A Mini-Review.},
journal = {JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association},
volume = {76},
number = {1},
pages = {118-120},
doi = {10.47391/JPMA.26-08},
pmid = {41736351},
issn = {0030-9982},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dizziness/rehabilitation/diagnosis ; *Telerehabilitation ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Quality of Life ; *Vertigo/rehabilitation ; },
abstract = {Dizziness and vertigo are common, disabling symptoms, especially in older adults. They can negatively affect quality of life and independence of the person. Vestibular rehabilitation is a key treatment, but access is often limited by physical, geographic, and socioeconomic factors. Telerehabilitation has emerged as a viable alternative, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This mini review synthesizes available evidence on vestibular telerehabilitation, focussing on feasibility, delivery methods, outcomes, and future directions. We have included commonly used outcomes measures like balance, gait, gaze stability, dizziness, psychological health, and quality of life. Findings suggest telerehabilitation is an effective alternative to in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to standardize protocols, evaluate cognitive outcomes, and ensure inclusivity across diverse populations. Digital innovations are a promising options for more accessible, patient-centered vestibular care.},
}

Humans
*Dizziness/rehabilitation/diagnosis
*Telerehabilitation
COVID-19/epidemiology
Quality of Life
*Vertigo/rehabilitation

@article {pmid41736688,
year = {2026},
author = {İşcan, G and Çöme, O},
title = {Security and privacy in e-health technologies: a scoping review of challenges and strategies in primary care.},
journal = {Family practice},
volume = {43},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/fampra/cmag006},
pmid = {41736688},
issn = {1460-2229},
mesh = {Humans ; *Primary Health Care ; *Telemedicine ; *Computer Security/standards ; *Confidentiality ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Electronic Health Records ; *Privacy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rapid integration of e-health technologies-such as telehealth, mobile health (mHealth), and electronic health records-has transformed primary care delivery, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this transformation has revealed significant vulnerabilities in data privacy and security, particularly in decentralized and resource-limited primary care settings. This scoping review aims to map current evidence on privacy and security concerns related to e-health technologies in primary care and to identify mitigation strategies and research gaps.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, ACM, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published between 2019 and 2024. Eligible studies addressed both privacy/security issues and e-health technology use in primary care. A two-stage screening process and full-text review were applied. Data were extracted and thematically synthesized.

RESULTS: Fifty-two studies were included. E-health technologies examined included teleconsultations, patient portals, digital decision support tools, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based systems. Among included studies, telehealth accounted for 28%, mHealth and wearables 20%, electronic health records 16%, and AI applications 6%. Common concerns involved data breaches, insufficient encryption, lack of interoperability, consent ambiguity, and challenges in securing virtual consultations. Vulnerable groups-such as older adults and low-literacy populations-faced higher risks. Recommended strategies included privacy-by-design principles, secure infrastructure, user-centered design, clearer governance policies, provider training, and hybrid care models.

CONCLUSION: Addressing privacy and security in e-health requires more than technical solutions. Equitable, safe, and trustworthy systems must incorporate legal, ethical, and human-centered approaches. In primary care, privacy must be positioned as a core element of digital health equity, not an optional enhancement.},
}

Humans
*Primary Health Care
*Telemedicine
*Computer Security/standards
*Confidentiality
COVID-19/epidemiology
Electronic Health Records
*Privacy
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41736834,
year = {2026},
author = {Souza, ECSG and Dos Santos Junior, AG and Félix, AMS and Borges, JPA and de Oliveira, LB and Carneiro, LM and de Sousa, AFL},
title = {Use of Artificial Intelligence in Public Health Education for Pandemic Preparedness and Response.},
journal = {Annals of global health},
volume = {92},
number = {1},
pages = {21},
pmid = {41736834},
issn = {2214-9996},
mesh = {Humans ; *Artificial Intelligence ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Public Health/education ; *Health Education/methods ; COVID-19 ; *Disaster Planning ; Civil Defense/education ; Pandemic Preparedness ; },
abstract = {Background: The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) has enabled new approaches for health education, particularly during public health emergencies. However, evidence remains fragmented on how AI-based educational strategies support preparedness, response, and recovery phases of pandemics and epidemics. Objective: To map the use of AI-based technologies in health education strategies addressing preparedness, response, and recovery during public health emergencies, identifying target populations, intervention characteristics, outcomes, scalability, and knowledge gaps. Methods: This scoping review followed Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, IEEE Xplore, and LILACS, complemented by gray literature from Google Scholar. Studies published from 2010 onward in English, Portuguese, or Spanish were included. Eligible designs comprised primary studies, methodological or implementation research, and reviews with explicit educational components. Data extraction covered context, populations, AI modalities, educational purposes, delivery channels, supervision requirements, pandemic-cycle phase, scalability, outcomes, and evidence gaps. Results: Forty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. Conversational AI (chatbots and large language models) and algorithmic curation tools using machine learning and natural language processing predominated. Most interventions supported health literacy, risk communication, and misinformation management; others addressed personalized learning, microtraining, and clinical simulation for students and health professionals. Delivery channels included mobile applications, messaging platforms, websites/YouTube, and clinical AI systems. Human oversight (expert validation and curation) was consistently reported as essential for safety and reliability. Interventions mainly targeted the response phase, with emerging applications for preparedness. Major gaps included standardized learning measures, cost-effectiveness evaluations, equity analyses, and governance frameworks ensuring privacy, transparency, and bias control. Conclusions: AI-enabled educational technologies can strengthen rapid, scalable, and personalized learning during health emergencies. Future research should prioritize multicenter studies using standardized indicators, economic and equity assessments, and robust governance frameworks to ensure ethical, safe, and inclusive adoption.},
}

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Public Health/education
*Health Education/methods
COVID-19
*Disaster Planning
Civil Defense/education
Pandemic Preparedness

@article {pmid41737288,
year = {2026},
author = {Muto, T and Machida, S and Imaizumi, S and Kamoi, K},
title = {Relationship Between COVID-19 and Retinal Artery Occlusions.},
journal = {Journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {5545707},
pmid = {41737288},
issn = {2090-004X},
abstract = {The relationship between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection or vaccination and retinal artery occlusions (RAOs) remains controversial. COVID-19 infection or vaccination can sometimes cause thrombin formation. RAOs occur due to thrombin in the retinal artery. The average age of occurrence after COVID-19 infection was 48.7 ± 17.2 years in central RAO (CRAO) and 41.3 ± 17.8 years in branch RAO (BRAO). After COVID-19 vaccination, the average age was 54.7 ± 17.1 years in CRAO and 62.3 ± 21.2 years in BRAO. The mean time from COVID-19 diagnosis to symptom onset was 10.5 ± 9.3 days in CRAO and 48.3 ± 39.6 days in BRAO. After vaccination, the mean time was 7.3 ± 6.8 days in CRAO and 21.0 ± 24.9 days in BRAO. Initial visual acuity (VA) after COVID-19 infection was 2.53 ± 0.65 in CRAO and 0.09 ± 0.07 in BRAO. Final VA was 2.73 ± 0.12 in CRAO, but data for BRAO were unavailable. After vaccination, initial VA was 2.28 ± 0.97 in CRAO and -0.02 ± 0.16 in BRAO. Final VA was 2.12 ± 1.24 in CRAO and could not be calculated in BRAO. The relationship between COVID-19 or its vaccination and RAOs was investigated through past case reports. Two types of reports existed regarding RAO incidence after the COVID-19 pandemic-some indicated an increase, while others found no change. No reports suggested a decrease in RAO occurrence. The current evidence does not clarify the relationship between COVID-19 or its vaccine and RAOs. However, this relationship cannot be ruled out. Further investigations are necessary, as future infectious disease pandemics may occur.},
}

@article {pmid41737593,
year = {2026},
author = {Thangaleela, S and Wang, CK},
title = {Impact of nutrition on long COVID.},
journal = {Sports medicine and health science},
volume = {8},
number = {2},
pages = {128-144},
pmid = {41737593},
issn = {2666-3376},
abstract = {Long COVID is characterized by a group of persistent symptoms following the acute SARS-COV2 infection, which presented a multifaceted challenge to the healthcare systems all over the globe. The long COVID symptoms span various organ systems including the respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and neurological manifestations. Mitochondrial dysfunction and immune dysregulation play crucial roles in the long COVID pathophysiology. Recently nutritional intervention gained much attention in managing post-viral syndromes. Effective interventions like supplementation of omega-3 fatty acid, macro and micro nutrients, and vitamins help to reduce systemic inflammation and counteract muscle wasting. Other approaches like nutritional recovery, dietetic interventions, continuous nutritional care post-hospital discharge, nutritional rehabilitation programs, whole-diet approaches like Mediterranean diet, plant-based diet, and caloric optimization, improve overall functional recovery. Physical activity and exercise regimes have been shown to improve fatigue, dyspnea, and cognitive function. Tailored exercise regimes may promote safe rehabilitation. Certain ineffective interventions, such as non-personalized approaches, high dose of antioxidants, use of herbal products that are not clinically validated need to be addressed. Dietary interventions such as personalized nutritional counseling have been demonstrated to improve physical performance in long COVID patients. Further research is needed to refine protocols and identify optimal combinations of dietary and movement-based therapies to support the recovery of long-COVID patients. This narrative review focuses on the ongoing researches that reveals the intricate relationship between nutrition and long COVID recovery and also establishes effective protocols for nutritional care.},
}