@article {pmid41947042,
year = {2026},
author = {Sahu, D and Van Nynatten, LR and Tweddell, D and Daley, M and Fraser, DD},
title = {Computational proteomics to enhance personalized treatment of COVID-19 and Long COVID.},
journal = {Clinical proteomics},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41947042},
issn = {1542-6416},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has led to significant global health burden, including both acute infections and persistent post-acute sequelae, also known as Long COVID (LC) in survivors. While clinical management has reduced case-fatality rates, a substantial proportion of patients develop LC, a heterogeneous syndrome with long-term symptoms. This complex continuum requires therapeutic strategies for both the acute and chronic phases. Plasma proteomics has emerged as a powerful tool in precision medicine, offering insights into systemic molecular changes and disease trajectories. Using targeted and untargeted proteomic analyses, researchers can identify disease-relevant pathways, perform cellular deconvolution to assess tissue-specific contributions, and pinpoint therapeutic targets for both acute infection and persistent symptoms. Combined with bioinformatics and machine learning, these proteomic insights support biomarker discovery and drug repurposing strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41947427,
year = {2026},
author = {Myer, A and Calfee, MW and Monge, M and Abdel-Hady, A and Aslett, D and Ratliff, KM},
title = {Exploring Surrogate Selection for Virucidal Aerosol Testing: A Qualitative Analysis.},
journal = {Environmental science & technology},
volume = {60},
number = {15},
pages = {11202-11217},
doi = {10.1021/acs.est.5c18416},
pmid = {41947427},
issn = {1520-5851},
mesh = {Aerosols ; Humans ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic heightened interest in the development and testing of virucidal chemistries and technologies for use in indoor environments. Direct testing of pathogens often requires a high-level biosafety containment, which can restrict performance evaluations to smaller scales that may have limited translatability to the complexities of real-world indoor environments. Therefore, using viral surrogates that are safer to work with than target pathogens offers many potential benefits, including aerosol testing in more realistic conditions. This scoping review analyzes surrogate selection and use across aerosol, surface, and suspension-based tests and identifies bridges in surrogate selection considerations. A qualitative analysis of 133 studies was conducted to highlight trends, knowledge gaps, and future directions toward standardized surrogate selection frameworks. This review finds that Enterobacteria phage MS2 (MS2) and other bacteriophages are commonly used due to their practicality and safety. There are limited examples of concurrent pathogen and surrogate testing to assess suitability, which is highly context-dependent on the test conditions. Beyond virucide testing, the surrogate selection considerations discussed herein are informative for research on the persistence, transmission, transport, behavior, and nonchemical management of airborne viruses.},
}

Aerosols
Humans

@article {pmid41948023,
year = {2026},
author = {Alrashidi, Y and Sriram, S and Beek, MA and Fadlalmola, HA and Albadrani, M},
title = {Work-related musculoskeletal disorders among gig-based food delivery workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1788523},
pmid = {41948023},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Musculoskeletal Diseases/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; *Occupational Diseases/epidemiology ; Working Conditions ; Prevalence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The digital economy has spurred gig work, especially in food delivery, which grew during COVID-19. However, gig workers face occupational hazards like traffic accidents, poor ergonomics, and unsafe conditions, leading to work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). Studies show high rates of back and neck pain among delivery riders due to physical strain, repetitive motions, and long hours. WMSDs reduce productivity and increase healthcare costs. This review examines WMSD prevalence, risk factors, and related issues like accidents and violence among food delivery workers.

METHODS: We searched for relevant articles up to June 2025 from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers extracted data from the selected studies, including baseline information, outcomes, and prevalence of WMSDs. All data analyses were performed using R version 4.3.3.

RESULTS: After removing 1,013 duplicate records, we retained 1,279 for screening. Following a thorough review, we identified 23 eligible entries for inclusion in our study. As per our analysis, delivery workers face high injury prevalence: lower back (43%), shoulder (39%), neck (30%), upper back (24%), and RTA (25%). Risk factors include gig economy systemic vulnerabilities, prolonged static postures, vibration exposure, open-door vehicles, and dangerous traffic practices. Different forms of violence (physical, verbal, and psychological) affected delivery workers, while exploitation and discrimination were particularly evident among minorities.

CONCLUSION: This review demonstrated a high burden of WMSDs among delivery workers, who face serious hazards like injuries, accidents, and violence due to precarious gig economy conditions, time pressures, and poor safety measures. This study provides the first quantitative pooled estimates of WMSD prevalence among food delivery workers, along with an additional narrative synthesis of traffic accidents and workplace violence.},
}

Humans
*Musculoskeletal Diseases/epidemiology
Risk Factors
*Occupational Diseases/epidemiology
Working Conditions
Prevalence

@article {pmid41948684,
year = {2026},
author = {Mangahas, AM and Chang, M and Husain, IA},
title = {The Effect of COVID-19 on Voice Quality: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {World journal of otorhinolaryngology - head and neck surgery},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {218-227},
pmid = {41948684},
issn = {2589-1081},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of COVID-19 on voice by evaluating acoustic, aerodynamic, auditory-perceptual, and patient-reported measurements for COVID-19 patients compared to controls.

DATA SOURCES: A systematic review was conducted using PubMed and Embase.

REVIEW METHODS: Studies were reviewed for acoustic, aerodynamic, auditory-perceptual, and patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS: Seven studies met criteria. There were 790 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 and 484 controls. Acoustic measurements revealed that COVID-19 patients had an increased harmonic-to-noise ratio (HNR) (27.14 vs. 41.37 dB), and increased fundamental frequency (177.66 vs. 172.81 Hz), jitter (0.73 vs. 0.31), and shimmer (4.43 vs. 3.42). Auditory-perceptual measurements indicated that COVID-19 patients had an increased Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (CAPE-V) score (11.46 vs. 2.15). COVID-19 patients also had an increased Voice Handicap Index (VHI-10) score (4.89 vs. 1.59). Finally, COVID-19 patients had a statistically significant decrease in maximum phonation time compared to controls (9.94 s vs. 16.32 s, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS: Although maximum phonation time was the only statistically significant measurement, other measurements were worse for COVID-19 patients. The current research suggests negative effects of COVID-19 on the voice; however, this is the first systematic review to summarize its effects with measurable outcomes. More studies with vocal measurements taken at different time points following infection are needed to understand the full long-term effect of COVID-19 on the voice. Additionally, studies evaluating voice quality for mild cases of COVID-19 with comparison to healthy controls are needed to understand its prevalence and effect as the severity of COVID-19 decreases.},
}

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

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

@article {pmid41951240,
year = {2026},
author = {Ananth, S and Alimani, GS and Boccabella, C and Khaleva, E and Hansel, J and Wang, R and Roberts, G and Kosmidis, C and Bossios, A and Vestbo, J and Papageorgiou, E and Papadopoulos, NG and Beloukas, A and Mathioudakis, AG},
title = {Prevalence of respiratory viruses in stable and acute asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {European respiratory review : an official journal of the European Respiratory Society},
volume = {35},
number = {180},
pages = {},
pmid = {41951240},
issn = {1600-0617},
mesh = {Humans ; *Asthma/virology/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Prevalence ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology/diagnosis ; Acute Disease ; Child ; *Virus Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; Adult ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Respiratory viruses, frequently detected in asthma, are associated with worse outcomes. This meta-analysis systematically quantifies the prevalence of respiratory viruses in stable and acute asthma, across children and adults, and explores factors associated with increased viral burden through meta-regression.

METHODS: This prospectively registered meta-analysis (PROSPERO-CRD42023375108) included studies employing molecular techniques to assess respiratory virus prevalence in asthma. Three databases were searched in August 2024. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed. We performed random-effects meta-analysis of proportions.

RESULTS: We included 111 eligible studies. Moderate-certainty evidence indicated a pooled prevalence of any respiratory virus of 33.9% (95% confidence interval 24.8-43.7%) in children and 23.0% (12.9-35.0%) in adults with stable asthma. In acute asthma, prevalence increased to 58.8% (52.5-65.0%) in children and 49.9% (41.2-58.5%) in adults (moderate certainty). Rhinovirus was the most frequently identified virus, especially in acute asthma (45.0% in children versus 21.2% in adults). Respiratory syncytial virus and bocavirus were more common in younger children, while coronavirus and influenza were more frequently detected in adults; respiratory syncytial virus peaked in older adults too. A higher prevalence of influenza virus B and adenovirus in children, and of influenza virus A and parainfluenza 2 in adults with severe versus non-severe acute asthma suggests a potential association with more severe acute attacks.

CONCLUSION: Respiratory viruses are common in both stable and acute asthma. This suggests that the diagnostic value of a positive viral test during acute episodes may be limited and could benefit from complementary biomarkers to improve interpretation.},
}

Humans
*Asthma/virology/epidemiology/diagnosis
Prevalence
*Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology/diagnosis
Acute Disease
Child
*Virus Diseases/epidemiology/virology
Adult
Risk Factors

@article {pmid41951549,
year = {2026},
author = {Scheid, PL and Padi, D and Schvach, H and Scheid, SE},
title = {Application of Telemedicine for Mission Support-Importance of a Cost-Benefit Analysis.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {32},
number = {7},
pages = {682-691},
doi = {10.1177/15305627261440753},
pmid = {41951549},
issn = {1556-3669},
mesh = {Cost-Benefit Analysis ; Humans ; *Telemedicine/economics/organization & administration ; Cost-Effectiveness Analysis ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Medical Missions/organization & administration/economics ; Digital Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital health is more relevant now than ever before, and interventions have a clear potential to improve the quality of care while reducing health care costs. Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative approach to health care delivery, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. In mission environments, telemedicine increasingly supports the management of acute injuries, chronic conditions, predeployment screening, and follow-up assessments, often using low-bandwidth store-and-forward modalities.

METHOD: By reviewing existing literature and considering several different (heterogeneous) programs for "telemedicine for mission support," the key performance indicators are explored to evaluate telemedicine in missions, following its implementation. Both acute and chronic care use cases, as well as operational, clinical, and technical determinants of feasibility, were considered.

RESULTS: This article presents the clinical, operational, and economic benefits of "telemedicine in missions" and the metrics for a comprehensive cost-effectiveness analysis or cost-benefit analysis, considering its economic and clinical impacts.

CONCLUSIONS: Telemedicine in missions shows considerable differences from other telemedicine applications depending on the actors and the resulting circumstances. Considering the heterogeneity of the metrics provided, even within the field of "telemedicine in missions," the analyses have to be conducted in accordance with the encountered conditions. Nevertheless, a set of metrics can be applied to nearly all use cases across the different applications and actors. A mission-adaptable minimum data set is proposed to support standardized evaluation across diverse operational contexts.},
}

Cost-Benefit Analysis
Humans
*Telemedicine/economics/organization & administration
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Medical Missions/organization & administration/economics
Digital Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41951954,
year = {2026},
author = {King, R and Ford, T and Coleman, Z and Hammond, E and Henley, D and Hirschtick, JL},
title = {Racial Disparities in Long COVID: Why Black Americans are Likely Underrepresented in Long COVID Estimates.},
journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41951954},
issn = {2196-8837},
abstract = {In this conceptual paper, we posit that Black Americans are likely underrepresented in current Long COVID data estimates and explore potential reasons for this underrepresentation, with the purpose of beginning a critical dialogue within the Long COVID research community on this topic. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Black individuals were 10% more likely to acquire SARS-CoV-2 and twice as likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 than White individuals, increasing their risk for Long COVID. Nevertheless, studies based on national surveys and electronic health records often report lower Long COVID prevalence estimates for Black vs. White populations. Factors contributing to this discrepancy may include lack of Long COVID awareness, limited generalizability of existing studies, barriers to diagnosis, and medical racism and mistrust. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes creating targeted Long COVID awareness campaigns, updating the mode and breadth of data collection activities, reducing diagnostic barriers, and ultimately tackling the systemic racism that underlies these health inequities. Accurate representation in data is essential for understanding the full impact of Long COVID and developing interventions that are equitable and effective.},
}

@article {pmid41952158,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Yu, X and Li, P and Ouyang, Y and Zhu, L and Luo, F},
title = {Targeting immunosenescence in lung diseases: mechanistic insights and clinical interventions.},
journal = {BMC medicine},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41952158},
issn = {1741-7015},
support = {No. W2411076//International Cooperation and Exchange of the National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunosenescence/immunology ; *Lung Diseases/immunology/therapy ; Immunotherapy/methods ; },
abstract = {Immunosenescence, the age-related decline in immune function, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and progression of lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and respiratory tract infections. This comprehensive review examines the hallmarks of immunosenescence, and illustrates the association between immunosenescence and the pathogenesis of lung diseases. In addition, we discuss current and emerging therapeutic strategies that have been evaluated in human clinical trials for targeting immunosenescence in lung diseases. Specifically, this review provides in-depth insights into the therapeutic strategies, including senolytics and senomorphics, immunotherapy, stem cell therapy, thymic rejuvenation, probiotics, and lifestyle. We also highlight the potential of personalized approaches integrating multi-omics data and artificial intelligence to guide biomarker-driven interventions, enabling truly personalized therapeutic strategies. Finally, this review underscores the imperative for rigorously designed clinical trials to develop and validate interventions that specifically target immunosenescence, with the ultimate goal of improving clinical outcomes for the aged population with lung diseases.},
}

Humans
*Immunosenescence/immunology
*Lung Diseases/immunology/therapy
Immunotherapy/methods

@article {pmid41952170,
year = {2026},
author = {Selby, A and Sutton, A and Bamford, E and Booth, A},
title = {Factors and mitigating strategies impacting receipt of healthcare by the Deaf community: an umbrella review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41952170},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {NIHR207088//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Health Services Accessibility ; *Persons with Hearing Disabilities ; Sign Language ; Health Literacy ; Medical Interpreting ; Deaf Culture ; Communication Barriers ; Healthcare Disparities ; *Deafness ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite over 70 million Deaf people using sign languages worldwide, their ability to access and receive health services remains disproportionately limited. The Deaf community commonly encounter reduced access to preventive care compared to the hearing population. This umbrella review aims to collate and appraise systematic reviews examining factors and mitigating strategies influencing Deaf people’s receipt of healthcare. METHODS: The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024563083). Eligible systematic reviews investigated factors affecting healthcare receipt among the Deaf communities in any Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) country. Databases searched included MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Science Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index, and PROSPERO. Screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal (AMSTAR 2) were undertaken independently by reviewers, with disagreements resolved by consensus. Data were synthesised narratively using a purpose-specific conceptual framework, categorising factors as individual or environmental. RESULTS: From 3,749 records, 32 systematic reviews were included. Most reviews (78%) were rated critically low in quality. Individual-level barriers were dominated by reduced health literacy (reported in 26 reviews), including inadequate access to sign language health information, limited family awareness, and poorer knowledge of medicines and preventive practices. Socioeconomic status, rural residence, minority ethnic background and limited family support were also linked to reduced healthcare access. Environmental factors included communication barriers, low Deaf awareness among healthcare professionals and shortages of qualified interpreters, all of which fostered Deaf people’s mistrust and disengagement with healthcare. Inadequate recording of communication needs, inaccessible complaints processes and COVID-19 policies further exacerbated inequalities. Strategies identified included sign language–adapted health education, interpreter provision, telehealth services, and specialist Deaf health clinics with interpreters, however few reviews offered evidence for effectiveness. CONCLUSIONS: Deaf people experience persistent, multifactorial barriers to equitable healthcare, driven by low health literacy, social disadvantage, poor communication support and systemic failings. Current evidence is largely of low methodological quality, underscoring the need for robust, co-produced research with Deaf communities. Priority areas include redesigning healthcare processes for accessible communication, expanding interpreter provision, and embedding Deaf awareness training into professional education to achieve systemic change.},
}

Humans
*Health Services Accessibility
*Persons with Hearing Disabilities
Sign Language
Health Literacy
Medical Interpreting
Deaf Culture
Communication Barriers
Healthcare Disparities
*Deafness

@article {pmid41952380,
year = {2026},
author = {Pineschi, M and Rossi, S and Butini, S and Gemma, S and Carullo, G and Campiani, G},
title = {Beyond the Shadow of Indole: Medicinal Chemistry of Indolizines and Isoindolinones in the Fight Against Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Archiv der Pharmazie},
volume = {359},
number = {4},
pages = {e70233},
doi = {10.1002/ardp.70233},
pmid = {41952380},
issn = {1521-4184},
support = {2022HYF8KS//Fondo per il Programma Nazionale di Ricerca e Progetti di Rilevante Interesse Nazionale (PRIN)/ ; PE00000007//NextGeneration EU-MUR PNRR Extended Partnership initiative on Emerging Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Structure-Activity Relationship ; *Indolizines/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis ; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical ; *Isoindoles/pharmacology/chemistry/chemical synthesis ; Animals ; *Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/chemical synthesis ; *Communicable Diseases/drug therapy ; Drug Discovery ; Drug Design ; Indoles/chemistry/pharmacology ; Molecular Structure ; },
abstract = {Infectious diseases remain a major global health challenge, accounting for millions of deaths annually and placing an increasing burden on healthcare systems worldwide. The rapid emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) bacterial strains, together with recurrent outbreaks of viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2, Ebola, Zika, Monkeypox, and influenza, underscores the urgent need for novel therapeutic agents with diverse mechanisms of action. In this context, indolizines, isoindoles, and isoindolinones represent promising scaffolds in anti-infective drug discovery due to their unique structural features, versatile reactivity, and ability to engage multiple biological targets. This review provides an updated overview of the medicinal chemistry of indolizine and isoindoles, with particular emphasis on compounds demonstrating activities against infectious pathogens. Representative examples are highlighted to illustrate structure-activity relationships (SARs), scaffold-based optimization strategies, and emerging mechanistic insights. Relevant synthetic methodologies are discussed only in the context of biologically active compounds to provide a framework for rational design. Collectively, this review underscores the therapeutic potential of indolizine- and isoindole-derived scaffolds as versatile frameworks for anti-infective drug development and highlights opportunities for further chemical and biological exploration.},
}

Humans
Structure-Activity Relationship
*Indolizines/chemistry/pharmacology/chemical synthesis
Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
*Isoindoles/pharmacology/chemistry/chemical synthesis
Animals
*Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/chemical synthesis
*Communicable Diseases/drug therapy
Drug Discovery
Drug Design
Indoles/chemistry/pharmacology
Molecular Structure

@article {pmid41952921,
year = {2026},
author = {Usman, AB and Comlan, MBL and Victory, KR and Geissler, A},
title = {Strengthening Global Health Security in West Africa: Insights from Joint External Evaluations and After-Action Reviews.},
journal = {Dialogues in health},
volume = {8},
number = {},
pages = {100294},
pmid = {41952921},
issn = {2772-6533},
abstract = {PURPOSE: West Africa faces recurring public health outbreaks, including Ebola, COVID-19, and Mpox, underscoring the need for strong Global Health Security (GHS) core capacities. This study uses Joint External Evaluation (JEE) scores and After-Action Review (AAR) findings to assess public health emergency preparedness across 15 West African countries and identify gaps between theoretical assessments and operational response capacity.

METHODS: A mixed-methods approach compared JEE scores (2016-2023) with thematic analysis of AAR findings from major outbreaks. Consistency between JEE-predicted capacities and AAR-reported challenges was assessed using a three-level rating system (High/Moderate/Low) and the Kappa statistic.

RESULTS: In 68 of 105 technical area comparisons (65%) of cases, JEE scores accurately predicted weaknesses in laboratory systems and workforce development. However, in 37 comparisons (35%) of cases, JEE scores overestimated preparedness, particularly in risk communication(all15 countries,100%), real-time surveillance(13 of 15 countries, 87%), and cross-border coordination, where countries with high scores faced operational failures during outbreaks. AARs revealed logistical bottlenecks, supply chain disruptions, and coordination failures not captured by JEEs. Alignment with SDG 3.d (health security), SDG 10 (inequalities), SDG 17 (partnerships), and SDG 9 (infrastructure) underscores broader development implications.

CONCLUSION: While JEE is valuable for baseline assessment, it incompletely predicts real-world outbreak response performance. Integrating AAR findings into national planning and refining JEE indicators to include operational metrics will enhance health security evaluations. Regionally coordinated action through WAHO is essential for addressing gaps and building resilient systems aligned with sustainable development goals.},
}

@article {pmid41953499,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, B and Choi, S},
title = {Comparing pre- and post-COVID-19 chronic allergy prevalence in children using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2019 and 2021.},
journal = {Allergologie select},
volume = {10},
number = {},
pages = {36-48},
pmid = {41953499},
issn = {2512-8957},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To investigate changes in demographic characteristics, parental smoking habits, and the prevalence of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and rhinitis among children in South Korea before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis of national health survey data from 2019 and 2021 was conducted, including children aged 3 - 18 years. Factors such as gender, age, location, housing type, family size, income, body mass index, subjective health status, influenza vaccination, family structure, and parental smoking habits were analyzed.

RESULTS: No significant differences were found in most demographic characteristics and parental features between 2019 and 2021, except for influenza vaccination rates and mothers' age at first childbirth. The influenza vaccination rate increased from 69.3% in 2019 to 77.8% in 2021, and the average maternal age at first birth increased from 28.46 years to 29.22 years. Asthma diagnoses showed no significant differences between the 2 years after adjusting for general and parent-related characteristics. For atopic dermatitis, significant differences in gender distribution were observed in 2021. Rhinitis diagnoses showed significant differences in age, area, and breastfeeding status between the two years.

CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced certain demographic characteristics, such as influenza vaccination rates and mothers' age at first childbirth, but the prevalence of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and rhinitis among children remained largely unchanged between 2019 and 2021. This study underscores the importance of monitoring the impact of social changes on children's health, particularly during significant events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is required to understand the long-term effects of these changes on child health.},
}

@article {pmid41954649,
year = {2026},
author = {Valencia, S and Jaimes, C and Victoria, T and Gee, MS},
title = {Strategies for radiology faculty recruitment and retention in a competitive market: implications for pediatric radiology.},
journal = {Pediatric radiology},
volume = {56},
number = {5},
pages = {1068-1077},
pmid = {41954649},
issn = {1432-1998},
mesh = {*Personnel Selection/methods ; Humans ; United States ; *Radiology ; *Faculty, Medical/supply & distribution ; Organizational Culture ; *Pediatrics ; *Radiologists/supply & distribution ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Leadership ; Career Mobility ; Workload ; },
abstract = {This narrative review examines strategies and recommendations to address the current radiologist shortage in the USA, with a particular emphasis on workforce retention and preservation through operational efficiency, organizational leadership, cultural transformation, and technology integration. National workforce data, expert commentaries, and strategic frameworks from academic radiology and healthcare leadership literature were reviewed to contextualize current challenges and proposed solutions. The radiology workforce faces escalating pressure driven by rapidly increasing imaging volumes, limited growth in the number of practicing radiologists, and rising attrition rates. Between 2008 and 2018, radiologist workloads nearly doubled while workforce expansion was much smaller, exacerbating workload imbalance, burnout, and professional dissatisfaction. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated workforce challenges by causing an exodus of workers and making on-site work more challenging. Although short-term mitigation strategies exist, sustainable long-term solutions require coordinated cultural and structural changes that prioritize strategic hiring, transparent career advancement pathways, protected academic and professional development time, and optimized workflow efficiency supported by technology. In conclusion, effective management of the radiology workforce shortage necessitates integrated operational and cultural approaches, with departments implementing comprehensive and tailored interventions to expand workforce capacity, enhance professional fulfillment, and maintain high-quality patient care.},
}

*Personnel Selection/methods
Humans
United States
*Radiology
*Faculty, Medical/supply & distribution
Organizational Culture
*Pediatrics
*Radiologists/supply & distribution
COVID-19/epidemiology
Leadership
Career Mobility
Workload

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

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

@article {pmid41955274,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, D and Dasgupta, A and Hora, JS and Chen, KH and Banerjee, A and Archer, SL},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 targets mitochondria, exacerbating COVID-19 pneumonia.},
journal = {The Journal of physiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1113/JP290297},
pmid = {41955274},
issn = {1469-7793},
support = {SEA-20-015//Southeastern Ontario Academic Medical Organization/ ; MM1181122/CAPMC/CIHR/Canada ; },
abstract = {Mitochondrial damage is a conserved feature of coronavirus infection, occurring with human (SARS-CoV-2, HCoV-OC43) and murine (MHV-1) coronaviruses. Coronaviruses damage mitochondria in airway epithelial cells (AEC), pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMC), pulmonary artery endothelial cells, immune cells and cardiomyocytes by causing rapid transcriptomic changes in nuclear-encoded genes regulating mitochondria and by viral proteins interacting with host mitochondrial proteins. Coronavirus infection causes mitochondrial depolarization, mitochondrial transition pore (MTP) opening, inhibition of the electron transport chain (ETC) and ATP synthetic apparatus, increased mitochondrial fission, apoptosis, and impaired mitochondrial oxygen sensing. Within hours of infection, SARS-CoV-2 induces transcriptional reprogramming of genes relevant to the mitochondrial matrix in AECs, downregulating mRNA encoding ETC complex I components and the ATP synthesis complex. These bioenergetic consequences of SARS-CoV-2 mitochondriopathy may contribute to long COVID. Infection also upregulates dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1), activating mitochondrial fission while promoting apoptosis by activating apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) and caspase 7. Even without infection, transfection with specific coronaviral proteins opens the MTP and depolarizes the mitochondria, or activates DRP1 and AIF, promoting AEC damage or apoptosis, thereby contributing to diffuse alveolar damage. In human PASMCs, coronaviral M and Nsp9 proteins suppress hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV), a homeostatic mechanism in PASMCs that uses a mitochondrial oxygen sensor to redistribute blood flow to well-ventilated lung regions during pneumonia. Impairment of HPV, seen as intrapulmonary shunting, contributes to the profound hypoxaemia in COVID-19 pneumonia. Coronavirus-induced mitochondriopathy may have therapeutic relevance as blocking AIF-induced apoptosis or enhancing HPV appears beneficial in a MHV-1 model of COVID-19 pneumonia.},
}

@article {pmid41955863,
year = {2026},
author = {Temiz, A and Tascilar, K},
title = {Why we need to maintain a critical view on big data and artificial intelligence predictions.},
journal = {Current opinion in immunology},
volume = {100},
number = {},
pages = {102776},
doi = {10.1016/j.coi.2026.102776},
pmid = {41955863},
issn = {1879-0372},
mesh = {Humans ; *Big Data ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Machine Learning ; *Rheumatology/methods ; Prediction Algorithms ; },
abstract = {Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are widely promoted as transformative tools for medical practice, yet their impact in daily rheumatology remains limited. This review examines the gap between expectations and reality using historical parallels, conceptual considerations, and recent methodological evidence. Experiences with antioxidant supplementation, vitamin D, the microbiome, and the Human Genome Project illustrate a recurring pattern: early studies report large effects that diminish or disappear in larger, higher-quality studies. Meta-epidemiological work and the 'cursed auction' analogy explain why early and small studies systematically overestimate effects. Conceptually, individualized clinical risk remains a group-based construct, constrained by the reference class problem and irreducible uncertainty. Methodologically, many AI models in rheumatology suffer from small and heterogeneous datasets, overfitting, inadequate handling of missing data, poor calibration, and limited external or prospective validation. The failure of COVID-19 prediction models and the neutral trial of the Ada diagnostic assistant in rheumatology illustrate how strong retrospective performance often collapses in real-world use. In contrast, AI performs well in high signal-to-noise domains with abundant, structured data. Overall, AI can generate valuable insights and support narrowly defined tasks, but it cannot yet overcome the fundamental limits of noisy clinical data and group-based risk. Progress in rheumatology will require realistic expectations, large representative datasets, transparent methods, rigorous validation, and a focus on robust, interpretable tools that improve decisions for populations and well-defined patient subgroups rather than precise individual prediction.},
}

Humans
*Big Data
*Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning
*Rheumatology/methods
Prediction Algorithms

@article {pmid41955877,
year = {2026},
author = {Ngwoke, I and Ahmed, MM and Gideon, JA and Okesanya, OJ and Danladi, NP and Agboola, AO and Abdullahi, YB and Oso, TA and Adebayo, UO and Eshun, G and Lucero-Prisno, DE},
title = {Molecular characteristics, epidemiological trends, and public health implications of human metapneumovirus (hMPV): a review.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {619},
number = {},
pages = {110897},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2026.110897},
pmid = {41955877},
issn = {1096-0341},
mesh = {Humans ; *Metapneumovirus/genetics/immunology/pathogenicity/classification ; *Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology/transmission/diagnosis/immunology/prevention & control ; Public Health ; Disease Outbreaks ; },
abstract = {Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an emerging respiratory pathogen associated with significant morbidity, particularly among young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Although clinically relevant, it remains underrecognized relative to influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Recent regional outbreaks, including the January 2025 surge in northern China, highlight hMPV's capacity to cause significant above-seasonal transmission events, particularly in settings with immunity debt following prolonged non-pharmaceutical interventions. This review synthesizes current knowledge on hMPV epidemiology, genetic diversity, transmission dynamics, pathogenesis, host immune interactions, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic and vaccine development efforts. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect with no publication date restriction, using MeSH and free-text terms including "hMPV," "epidemiology," "immune response," "diagnosis," "treatment," and "pandemic preparedness." Relevant reference lists were hand-searched to identify additional studies. Eligible articles included molecular, clinical, observational, and epidemiological studies; case reports and commentaries were excluded unless they provided unique outbreak insights. Findings emphasize that hMPV represents a growing public health concern due to limited awareness, diagnostic overlap with other viral pathogens, and the absence of targeted therapeutics or licensed vaccines. Strengthened surveillance, improved diagnostic capacity, and accelerated research into immunopathogenesis and vaccine platforms are urgently needed. Integrating hMPV into regional outbreak preparedness frameworks rather than pandemic-level frameworks applicable to influenza or SARS-CoV-2 while fostering collaborative research and proportionate public health communication, is essential to mitigate its future impact.},
}

Humans
*Metapneumovirus/genetics/immunology/pathogenicity/classification
*Paramyxoviridae Infections/epidemiology/virology/transmission/diagnosis/immunology/prevention & control
Public Health
Disease Outbreaks

@article {pmid41956814,
year = {2026},
author = {Vincent, E},
title = {Resolving 'Collective Amnesia': uncovering disease outbreaks past to shape pandemic futures.},
journal = {Medical humanities},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/medhum-2025-013473},
pmid = {41956814},
issn = {1473-4265},
abstract = {At the International Pandemic Sciences Conference in 2024, scholars of science and the medical humanities were united in asking one guiding question: how can we learn from disease outbreaks of the past to prepare for future pandemics? This article will explore how interdisciplinary public conference forums are productive spheres of knowledge exchange which enable proponents of science and literature to detect and trace past issues of public health which persist into present-day pandemics. The article considers the claim of bioethicists Maxwell J Smith and Ross Upshur that there is 'collective amnesia' when pandemics arise, to foreground the importance of uncovering and evaluating the visual, literary and media histories of pandemics past. Analysis of literary-historical research presented as part of the interdisciplinary 'Media and Epidemics' project, which analysed the visual and literary cultures of historic epidemics of influenza, demonstrates how historic literature and media collides with present-day public health discourse. Examining past epidemics reveals shared issues raised by COVID-19 media reportage concerning the historic role of storytelling, stigmatisation and fears of contagion. While COVID-19 haunts our recent past, there remains '[a]n urgency to understanding how narratives are constructed and understood between communities and their impact on structural factors, such as health policy' which can be enriched through 'a framework of public health humanities'. In conclusion, the proposed antidote to a global 'amnesia' centres on privileging memory, learning actionable lessons and telling stories of disease within collaborative medical humanities forums which unite literature and science.},
}

@article {pmid41957521,
year = {2026},
author = {Hadidchi, R and Pahuja, S and Mehrotra-Varma, S and Zhao, W and Lee, RC and Henry, S and Duong, TQ},
title = {COVID-19 and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with pre-existing hypertension.},
journal = {Journal of human hypertension},
volume = {40},
number = {6},
pages = {446-455},
pmid = {41957521},
issn = {1476-5527},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hypertension/epidemiology/diagnosis/complications/physiopathology ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/mortality/diagnosis ; Retrospective Studies ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Aged ; Risk Factors ; Stroke/epidemiology ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology ; Myocardial Infarction/epidemiology ; Biomarkers/blood ; Heart Failure/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Comorbidity ; },
abstract = {Patients with hypertension have worse acute COVID-19 outcomes, but the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection is unclear. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults with hypertension and no prior cardiovascular events in the Montefiore Health System, comparing those with and without COVID-19 over up to 4.5 years post-infection. Outcomes included first-time myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure (HF), stroke, all-cause mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Multivariate regression and inverse-probability weighting adjusted for demographics, comorbidities, socioeconomic status, and COVID-19 vaccination. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Sub-analyses examined hypertension stage and acute COVID-19 blood biomarkers in relation to outcomes. Among 75,180 hypertensive patients, hospitalized COVID-19 was associated with increased risk of first-time MI (adjusted HR = 1.40 [1.21-1.63]), HF (1.59 [1.45-1.75]), stroke (1.35 [1.17-1.57]), all-cause mortality (2.51 [2.17-2.90]), and MACE (1.65 [1.54-1.77]) compared to COVID-negative individuals. Non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients had elevated risks of HF (1.17 [1.06-1.30]) and MACE (1.14 [1.05-1.23]). Hospitalized COVID-19 was associated with an increase in MACE risk by 75% in those with normal blood pressure, and by 126% and 148% in those with elevated blood pressure and stage 1 hypertension, respectively. Abnormal C-reactive protein, creatinine, lactate dehydrogenase, D-dimer, hemoglobin, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio predicted higher MACE risk. COVID-19, irrespective of disease severity, puts hypertensive patients at greater risks of worse cardiovascular outcomes, especially those with more advanced hypertension. These findings underscore the importance of long-term cardiovascular monitoring in this vulnerable population.},
}

Humans
*Hypertension/epidemiology/diagnosis/complications/physiopathology
Female
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/mortality/diagnosis
Retrospective Studies
Male
Middle Aged
Aged
Risk Factors
Stroke/epidemiology
*Cardiovascular Diseases/epidemiology
Myocardial Infarction/epidemiology
Biomarkers/blood
Heart Failure/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Comorbidity

@article {pmid41958400,
year = {2026},
author = {Morton, LC and Forshey, BM and Klinkhammer, KE and Romaner, A and Traore, Z and Hartman, LJ and Standley, CJ and Roess, AA},
title = {Local genomic epidemiology investigations of SARS-CoV-2 during the early pandemic response: A global systematic review.},
journal = {Epidemiology and infection},
volume = {154},
number = {},
pages = {e56},
pmid = {41958400},
issn = {1469-4409},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; Phylogeny ; Pandemics ; Genomics ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Genome, Viral ; Molecular Epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Genomic epidemiology was essential for characterizing SARS-CoV-2 transmission during the early COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review examined how whole-genome sequencing was used in local outbreak investigations published between March 2020 and March 2021. Searches of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified 32 studies from 18 countries that integrated genomic and epidemiological data for local outbreak investigations. Most studies were conducted in healthcare settings or in high-income countries. A limited number of studies were conducted in low- and middle-income countries, except for China and Vietnam. Illumina or Oxford Nanopore platforms and tiled-amplicon protocols were the most common sequencing methods. Phylogenetic trees were the most common genomic epidemiology analytical approach. Genomic data enabled confirmation of suspected transmission links, detection of multiple introductions, and identification of asymptomatic or presymptomatic transmission. Important enablers of early implementation included open-access genomics databases, standardized protocols (e.g. ARTIC), open-source tools (e.g. Nextstrain), and cross-sector partnerships and funding. Study quality and adherence to common observational study reporting guidelines varied widely. Familiarity with the STROME-ID guidelines for molecular epidemiology studies would have improved overall quality. These findings highlight the utility of genomic epidemiology in outbreak response and support its continued integration into public health surveillance systems.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/transmission/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics
Phylogeny
Pandemics
Genomics
Whole Genome Sequencing
Genome, Viral
Molecular Epidemiology

@article {pmid41958512,
year = {2026},
author = {Crețu, OE and Poalelungi, CV and Neacșu, AV and Nenciu, A and Ceaușu, I},
title = {Epigenetic alterations in preeclampsia: a systematic review of current mechanisms and biomarker potential.},
journal = {Journal of medicine and life},
volume = {19},
number = {2},
pages = {69-88},
pmid = {41958512},
issn = {1844-3117},
mesh = {*Pre-Eclampsia/genetics/metabolism ; Female ; Humans ; Pregnancy ; *Epigenesis, Genetic ; *Biomarkers/metabolism ; Placenta Growth Factor/genetics/metabolism ; DNA Methylation/genetics ; },
abstract = {Preeclampsia (PE) remains a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality worldwide, with placental dysfunction and angiogenic imbalance playing central roles in disease pathogenesis. Emerging evidence highlights epigenetic regulation and angiogenic biomarkers, including placental growth factor (PlGF), as key contributors to disease heterogeneity and risk stratification. A systematic review of studies published between 2022 and 2025 was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines to synthesize current evidence on epigenetic mechanisms and biomarker potential in PE. In addition, a supplementary exploratory analysis was performed using laboratory-derived PlGF data to assess analytical variability and biological associations. Non-parametric methods were applied, including Mann-Whitney U testing to compare PlGF distributions by analytical sample classification and Kendall's tau correlation to evaluate associations with gestational age and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio. The systematic review identified consistent epigenetic alterations involving DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs across maternal and placental tissues. Supplementary analysis demonstrated significantly higher and more variable PlGF concentrations in analytically classified measured samples compared with accepted samples (P = 0.03), suggesting an influence of analytical factors on biomarker distribution. PlGF levels showed a positive association with gestational age (τ = 0.32, P = 0.04) and an inverse association with the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio (τ = -0.41, P = 0.02). These findings support PlGF as a biologically relevant marker of gestational progression and angiogenic balance while underscoring the importance of rigorous analytical quality control. Integrating epigenetic insights with robust biomarker analysis may enhance personalized risk stratification in preeclampsia.},
}

*Pre-Eclampsia/genetics/metabolism
Female
Humans
Pregnancy
*Epigenesis, Genetic
*Biomarkers/metabolism
Placenta Growth Factor/genetics/metabolism
DNA Methylation/genetics

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41962202,
year = {2026},
author = {Redenti, BJ and Zhong, Y and Yu, C and Dong, Y},
title = {Recent advances in LNP-mRNA vaccines.},
journal = {Colloids and surfaces. B, Biointerfaces},
volume = {265},
number = {},
pages = {115675},
doi = {10.1016/j.colsurfb.2026.115675},
pmid = {41962202},
issn = {1873-4367},
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/chemistry/genetics ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Animals ; *Lipids/chemistry ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Immunotherapy/methods ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines have revolutionized immunotherapy by coupling modular mRNA engineering with advances in lipid nanoparticles (LNPs). LNPs, generally composed of ionizable lipid, phospholipid, cholesterol, and PEGylated lipid, have emerged as the leading vehicles for stabilizing mRNA and enhancing its cellular delivery. Concurrent innovations in mRNA chemistry and structure, such as nucleoside modification and untranslated region optimization, have improved translation efficiency, fidelity, and control of innate immune sensing. These synergistic advances underpinned the success of COVID-19 vaccines and have since propelled the rapid expansion of LNP-mRNA platforms across infectious and oncologic diseases. Preclinical and clinical studies now demonstrate potent and durable immune responses elicited by LNP-mRNA vaccines against diverse viral, bacterial, and cancer targets. Together, these findings illustrate how rational integration of biomaterial design with mRNA engineering defines the next generation of programmable immunotherapies. Continued refinement of both particle composition and mRNA architecture is poised to broaden the reach of mRNA nanomedicines across preventive and therapeutic domains.},
}

Humans
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/chemistry/genetics
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
Animals
*Lipids/chemistry
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Immunotherapy/methods
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Liposomes

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

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

@article {pmid41963630,
year = {2026},
author = {Kurup, C and Ford, A and Heidke, P},
title = {Digital Strategies Utilised to Encourage Undergraduate Nursing Students' Engagement in Online Units of Study Throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Nursing open},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {e70528},
pmid = {41963630},
issn = {2054-1058},
mesh = {*COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Students, Nursing/psychology ; *Education, Distance/methods ; *Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Curriculum ; Digital Media ; },
abstract = {AIM: This systematic review provides an overview of digital strategies utilised to encourage undergraduate nursing students' engagement in online units of study throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND: In nursing education, engagement was crucial in acquiring knowledge, skills, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The COVID-19 pandemic forced schools and universities worldwide to quickly adapt from face-to-face learning to online platforms. While online teaching and digital technologies in education were not new, the urgency to create effective online learning opportunities that meet curriculum needs and maintain student engagement was particularly challenging for teaching staff and students.

DESIGN: REVIEW METHODS: The databases used were Embase, CINAHL, EMCARE, ERIC and BASE. The review was limited to English and literature published between January 2020 and September 2022 to capture the studies published around the COVID-19 lockdown. Three researchers independently completed the study selection, quality assessment and data extraction. Any discrepancies were resolved in a consensus-building conversation.

RESULTS: Multiple strategies, such as simulations, gamification and telehealth role-playing, effectively enhanced nursing students' online engagement during COVID-19. Instructor expertise, student-centred approaches and reliable infrastructure emerged as pivotal.

CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to online nursing education, highlighting the need for innovative strategies to sustain student engagement. Identifying the most effective pedagogical approaches, such as virtual simulations, gamification and experiential learning, will support future online learning. Integrating emerging technologies and student-centred teaching methods will be crucial in preparing nursing students for clinical practice in a post-pandemic world.},
}

*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Students, Nursing/psychology
*Education, Distance/methods
*Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Curriculum
Digital Media

@article {pmid41963927,
year = {2026},
author = {Kariuki, CK and Doijen, J and Mann, MK and Xie, J and Van Loock, M and Van Damme, E},
title = {Beyond assembly: functions of the coronavirus M protein.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41963927},
issn = {1743-422X},
support = {OTA number HHSO100201700018C//The Office of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Viral Matrix Proteins/metabolism/chemistry/genetics ; *Virus Assembly ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; Coronavirus M Proteins ; COVID-19/virology ; *Betacoronavirus/physiology/genetics ; Animals ; Virus Release ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Coronaviruses are enveloped RNA viruses from the family Coronaviridae, notable for their crown-like spike glycoproteins. Though historically regarded as inconsequential, recent outbreaks, most notably COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2, highlight their significant impact on global health. SARS-CoV-2 possesses a 27-31 kb, complex genome encoding multiple structural and non-structural proteins. The membrane/matrix (M) glycoprotein is the most abundant structural component of the viral envelope and confers the minimal requirement for virion formation. Its highly conserved structure, featuring three transmembrane domains, facilitates interactions with other viral proteins that are essential for assembly, budding, and maintaining the integrity of the viral envelope. Beyond its canonical functions in virion assembly and egress, emerging evidence suggests the M protein influences early infection processes, modulates host immune responses, and may serve as a promising antiviral target. This mini review consolidates current knowledge on the structure, multifunctional roles, and therapeutic potential of the coronavirus M protein, emphasizing the necessity for further research into its diverse functions throughout the viral lifecycle.},
}

Humans
*Viral Matrix Proteins/metabolism/chemistry/genetics
*Virus Assembly
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
Coronavirus M Proteins
COVID-19/virology
*Betacoronavirus/physiology/genetics
Animals
Virus Release
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/drug therapy

@article {pmid41963958,
year = {2026},
author = {Senyel, D and Boutros, E and Frith, M and Savira, F and Tong, L and Asiamah-Asare, BKY and Norman, R and Robinson, S and Boyd, JH},
title = {The (dis-)advantages of telehealth consultation for allied health services: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41963958},
issn = {1472-6963},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Remote Consultation ; *Telemedicine ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Services Accessibility ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in an uptake of teleconsultations across the healthcare sector, including for allied health services. However, (dis-)advantages specific to allied health services are under-researched. The aim of this scoping review is the understand the (dis-)advantages patients and providers perceive when using teleconsultations for allied health services.

METHODS: This scoping review was conducted using the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and reported according to the PRISMA-ScR statement. The final search was conducted in January 2024, through the databases MEDLINE Complete, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, AMED Allied and Complementary Medicine. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they reported qualitative findings on the (dis-)advantages of teleconsultations for allied health services from a patient's and/or provider's perspective. The screening process was conducted by two independent researchers, while the data extraction and inductive analysis were performed by the first author.

RESULTS: We identified 116 eligible articles. Eight categories were identified from a patient's perspective, including improved access to care, resource savings, convenience, comfort, reduced infection risk, effects on therapy, privacy, and patient-provider relationship. From the provider's perspective, additional categories included telehealth as a trigger for change and improvement, the patients in their own home, disruptions, interpreters, efficiency, changes to workday, and safety and risks.

CONCLUSION: While there are clear advantages, such as improved access to care, and disadvantages, such as the lack of hands-on treatment, the impact of telehealth often depends on the individual context of both the provider and the patient. Although some aspects are broadly relevant across all allied health professions, there are notable differences in the suitability of telehealth for specific services. Understanding the disadvantages and advantages of teleconsultations is key to informing policies and identifying suitable applications of telehealth.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Remote Consultation
*Telemedicine
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Health Services Accessibility

@article {pmid41965052,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, M and Li, Z and Zhao, Z and Guo, Z},
title = {Oncovirus-Driven Endothelial Plasticity: Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition as a Hijacked Pathway in Oncoviral Cardiovascular Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {e70143},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70143},
pmid = {41965052},
issn = {1099-1654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Signal Transduction ; Herpesvirus 8, Human/pathogenicity ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/virology/pathology ; Animals ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; COVID-19/virology/pathology ; Neovascularization, Pathologic ; Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition ; Endothelial Cells/virology/pathology ; *Oncogenic Viruses/pathogenicity ; },
abstract = {Oncoviruses utilise various molecular strategies to modulate host cells and induce microenvironments that favour viral persistence, immune evasion, and disease progression. Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) has recently emerged as a critical, yet underrecognized, pathway hijacked by oncoviral pathogens to modulate endothelial plasticity within the cardiovascular system. Accumulating evidence indicates that Oncogenic and non-oncogenic viruses, including Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV/HHV-8), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and other endothelial-tropic viruses, directly manipulate host signalling networks, such as TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and NF-κB, to induce partial or complete EndMT. This virus-driven EndMT contributes to vascular remodelling, chronic inflammation, aberrant angiogenesis, and the development of oncoviral-associated cardiovascular pathology and vascular tumours. The present review integrates current virological and mechanistic insights into EndMT as a hijacked host process, highlighting its role at the virus-host interface and discussing emerging antiviral and pathway-targeted strategies aimed at limiting oncovirus-mediated endothelial dysfunction.},
}

Humans
*Endothelial-Mesenchymal Transition
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Signal Transduction
Herpesvirus 8, Human/pathogenicity
*Cardiovascular Diseases/virology/pathology
Animals
Host-Pathogen Interactions
COVID-19/virology/pathology
Neovascularization, Pathologic
Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Endothelial Cells/virology/pathology
*Oncogenic Viruses/pathogenicity

@article {pmid41965962,
year = {2026},
author = {Sirago, G and Solarino, B and Dell'Erba, A and Ferorelli, D},
title = {Mapping 25 years of forensic and legal medicine research: a multi-database bibliometric and science-mapping analysis (2000-2025).},
journal = {Journal of forensic and legal medicine},
volume = {120},
number = {},
pages = {103127},
doi = {10.1016/j.jflm.2026.103127},
pmid = {41965962},
issn = {1878-7487},
mesh = {Humans ; *Forensic Medicine ; *Bibliometrics ; *Forensic Sciences ; *Biomedical Research ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Forensic and legal medicine spans forensic pathology, clinical forensic practice, toxicology, genetics, imaging, and emerging digital methods. Long-horizon mapping can support research prioritisation and editorial strategy.

METHODS: We conducted performance analysis and science-mapping of records published between 2000 and 2025. Primary analyses were performed on Web of Science Core Collection records (articles and reviews) using bibliometrix/biblioshiny. Outputs included annual production, leading sources and countries, citation indicators, collaboration metrics, keyword co-occurrence, Callon centrality-density thematic mapping, and trend-topic analysis. A conservative, prespecified keyword harmonisation was applied to a small set of orthographic variants (medico-legal, postmortem, machine learning, deep learning). Scopus-derived outputs were used as a robustness comparison for source and country landscapes.

RESULTS: The WoS corpus comprised 16,190 documents from 3052 sources with 49,746 distinct authors and 372,874 cited references. Annual growth was 7.68%, with 5.07 co-authors per document and 13.38% international co-authorship. Output was concentrated in a compact Bradford nucleus of specialist forensic journals, while a long tail of occasional publications appeared in adjacent clinical and multidisciplinary venues. Thematic mapping identified four macro-domains-identification, risk/epidemiology, autopsy/postmortem pathology, and clinical forensic practice-with recent growth in COVID-19-related work, postmortem interval research, and AI/ML terminology.

CONCLUSIONS: Forensic and legal medicine shows sustained growth with a stable conceptual backbone and accelerating innovation in digital and computational themes. These maps can inform research prioritisation, training needs, and editorial planning across specialist forensic outlets.},
}

Humans
*Forensic Medicine
*Bibliometrics
*Forensic Sciences
*Biomedical Research

@article {pmid41965973,
year = {2026},
author = {Yadav, P and Singh, A and Kumari, M and Verma, SK and Singh, D},
title = {Clinical evidence on BCG vaccination and COVID-19 infection: A systematic review.},
journal = {Respiratory investigation},
volume = {64},
number = {3},
pages = {101422},
doi = {10.1016/j.resinv.2026.101422},
pmid = {41965973},
issn = {2212-5353},
mesh = {*BCG Vaccine/immunology/administration & dosage ; Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Trained Immunity ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccination ; Cross Protection ; *Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control/immunology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/prevention & control/immunology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, starting in late 2019, led to the rapid development of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, though early availability was limited, and variants like Delta and Omicron impacted their effectiveness. The Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, used to prevent tuberculosis, has attracted interest for its potential non-specific protective effects against COVID-19. This review systematically evaluates the role of BCG vaccination in enhancing innate immune responses and its utility against COVID-19, focusing on mechanisms like trained immunity and cross-protection. It also discusses recent studies on BCG's impact on COVID-19 outcomes. Preliminary clinical trial findings suggest potential benefits of BCG vaccination against COVID-19, but the evidence remains inconclusive. Therefore, this review highlights the necessity of additional studies to determine whether BCG can prevent COVID-19 infection, mitigate severe outcomes and hospitalizations, and serve as a preventive tool for future viral pandemics.},
}

*BCG Vaccine/immunology/administration & dosage
Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Trained Immunity
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccination
Cross Protection
*Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control/immunology
*Pneumonia, Viral/prevention & control/immunology

@article {pmid41965977,
year = {2026},
author = {Gashema, P and Iradukunda, PG and Rudacogora, JC and Siddig, EE and Shema, H and Bigirimana, R and de Dieu Harelimana, J and Louis, M and Muvunyi, CM},
title = {Unlocking Africa's vaccine Independence: The critical role of technology transfer and intellectual property.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {81},
number = {},
pages = {128573},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128573},
pmid = {41965977},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {*Technology Transfer ; *Intellectual Property ; Humans ; Africa/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/supply & distribution ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic exposed Africa's profound dependency on external vaccine suppliers, with the continent producing less than 1% of global vaccines and hosting only 1.1% of clinical trials. Despite emerging initiatives, most African facilities remain limited to downstream fill-and-finish operations, while full vaccine antigen manufacturing capacity is largely absent. This perspective paper examines the critical role of Technology Transfer (TT) and Intellectual Property (IP) access in achieving Africa's vaccine independence. Effective TT must extend beyond documentation to include unspoken know-how, on-site mentorship, regulatory dossiers, and supply-chain integration. Simultaneously, pragmatic IP frameworks through voluntary licensing, patent pooling, and time-bound waivers are essential to enable lawful and sustainable local production. Drawing lessons from mature European and U.S. ecosystems, the paper highlights the need for regional manufacturing clusters, harmonized regulatory systems under the African Medicines Agency (AMA), and African pooled procurement mechanisms to ensure market viability. Persistent challenges such fragmented regulation, supply-chain fragility, limited skilled human capital, and uncertain financing continue to constrain progress and highlight the imperative for political commitment to be operationalized through sustained structural investments. Africa's vaccine sovereignty will depend on aligning TT with IP reform, regional cooperation, and predictable market assurance, transforming the continent from a dependent recipient into a resilient and globally competitive vaccine producer.},
}

*Technology Transfer
*Intellectual Property
Humans
Africa/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/supply & distribution
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41967609,
year = {2026},
author = {Žigová, K and Marčeková, Z and Gautieri, A and Rebroš, M},
title = {Recombinant Taq DNA polymerase.},
journal = {Journal of biotechnology},
volume = {415},
number = {},
pages = {152-169},
doi = {10.1016/j.jbiotec.2026.04.002},
pmid = {41967609},
issn = {1873-4863},
mesh = {*Taq Polymerase/chemistry/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification ; Protein Engineering/methods ; *Recombinant Proteins/chemistry/genetics/metabolism ; Enzyme Stability ; Humans ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The sudden COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of diagnostic assays in health security readiness. One persistent difficulty is the rapid molecular detection of pathogenic microorganisms and viruses. Taq DNA polymerase remains an essential component for COVID-19 molecular detection. Taq DNA polymerase exhibits a high level of thermostability, which results from tighter hydrophobic packing, increased salt bridges, shortened loops, and proline substitutions that reduce flexibility, enabling activity above 90 °C. In addition, engineered variants address limitations by improving fidelity, processivity, and stability. The enzyme´s thermostability has significantly increased the efficiency, automation, and specificity of PCR. Hot-start modifications using antibodies, aptamers, or chemical inhibitors further reduce non-specific amplification, strengthening its role in sensitive diagnostics. Although Taq polymerase is available from several commercial sources, it is crucial and urgent to produce enzymes recombinantly for use in research and diagnostic procedures. To satisfy the demands of industry, it is necessary to maximize and optimize its production. We provide an overview of the recombinant Taq DNA polymerase´s characteristics, structural features, engineering advances, production background and strategies, and purification history in this paper. Together, these insights underscore its central role in diagnostics, research, and biotechnology, as well as its continued relevance as a model enzyme for protein engineering.},
}

*Taq Polymerase/chemistry/genetics/metabolism/isolation & purification
Protein Engineering/methods
*Recombinant Proteins/chemistry/genetics/metabolism
Enzyme Stability
Humans
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41968868,
year = {2026},
author = {Tang, Y and Li, D and Zhu, Y and Duan, H and Zhao, A},
title = {Rational design of lipid and lipid-like structures for non-liver-targeted mRNA therapy.},
journal = {Biomaterials science},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {2237-2259},
doi = {10.1039/d5bm01344e},
pmid = {41968868},
issn = {2047-4849},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lipids/chemistry ; *RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics/chemistry/metabolism/administration & dosage ; Animals ; Liver/metabolism ; },
abstract = {The application of mRNA therapies has witnessed significant advancement since the outbreak of COVID-19. However, the widespread use of mRNA therapies has been restricted by the liver accumulation of traditional lipid structures used as delivery vectors. The efficacy of mRNA expression has been demonstrated to be highly related to vector structures and properties. To expand non-liver organs or cells as therapeutic targets for mRNA, lipid and other lipid-like molecules such as lipid analogs and lipid-like polymers with more favorable mRNA delivery efficiencies have been developed based on a deeper understanding of their structure-function correlations. This review primarily summarizes the structure commonalities leading to an excellent delivery performance and specific organ or cell targeting and illustrates the potential and future prospects of related materials in different biomedical applications of mRNA therapies.},
}

Humans
*Lipids/chemistry
*RNA, Messenger/therapeutic use/genetics/chemistry/metabolism/administration & dosage
Animals
Liver/metabolism

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

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

@article {pmid41971326,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, X and Tang, J and Liu, Y and Wang, X and Li, Q and Xu, Y and Li, X and Zhao, F},
title = {Evolutionary trajectory and co-infection dynamics of human influenza A(H1N1) virus (2000-2025): an integrated framework informed by expert-informed bibliometrics.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1793244},
pmid = {41971326},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Influenza A (H1N1) remains an important seasonal respiratory pathogen, but evidence on its evolutionary dynamics, reported co-detections, and surveillance priorities remains fragmented.

METHODS: We conducted an evidence-mapping synthesis (2000-2025) integrating bibliometric analysis, expert-guided curation, and sequence/structure-informed interpretation. A total of 15,028 records were retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, and 11,848 unique publications were retained after deduplication. GenBank-derived hemagglutinin (HA) sequences and Swiss-Model homology models were used to characterize mutational patterns and structural features. Literature-derived co-detection records were extracted from eligible publications and interpreted using a method-aware framework.

RESULTS: A post-2010 shift in the HA mutational landscape was observed, with recurrent substitutions at sites including S13, S146, S160, and S202. Structure-informed comparison of representative HA models identified a conformationally flexible segment spanning residues aa190-aa226, suggesting potential relevance to the receptor-binding microenvironment. Mapping of literature-derived co-detection records showed that RSV and SARS-CoV-2 were among the most frequently reported co-pathogens; however, these proportions reflected reporting composition across heterogeneous studies rather than population-level co-infection prevalence. In a China-focused module, G219A in Eurasian avian-like (EA) H1N1 strains was prioritized through protocol-constrained expert annotation requiring isolate-level evidence and was interpreted as a hypothesis-generating site of interest within the receptor-binding region rather than an algorithm-derived global bibliometric signal.

DISCUSSION: This study provides an integrated overview of H1N1 research evolution, HA mutational change, and reported co-detection patterns over the past 25 years. The findings support a tiered, method-aware multi-pathogen surveillance framework for preparedness, while underscoring that heterogeneous literature-derived co-detection data require standardized definitions, assay-aware interpretation, and local calibration before translation into clinical or public health decision-making.},
}

@article {pmid41971592,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, K and Yang, Z},
title = {Future prospects of antiviral research in traditional Chinese medicine.},
journal = {Chinese herbal medicines},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {226-230},
pmid = {41971592},
issn = {2589-3610},
abstract = {Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history of treating viral diseases through holistic approaches and multi-component formulations. In response to emerging global viral threats like coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), TCM has demonstrated significant potential in both antiviral and immune-modulatory roles. This review summarizes the current state of TCM antiviral research, highlighting advances in identifying active components and elucidating their mechanisms, which include direct viral inhibition and immune regulation. Technological innovations, including artificial intelligence (AI)-driven drug discovery and advanced extraction methods, are accelerating the development of TCM antiviral products. However, challenges remain in standardization, mechanistic validation, and international regulatory acceptance. Looking ahead, research should prioritize systems pharmacology, the development of multi-dimensional evaluation models, standardized clinical trials, and global health integration. By addressing these challenges, TCM can play a vital role in worldwide antiviral strategies and public health.},
}

@article {pmid41972558,
year = {2026},
author = {Sergazy, S and Gulyaev, A and Shulgau, Z},
title = {Oxidative Stress as a Mechanistic Link Between Severe Respiratory Viral Infection and Pulmonary Fibrosis.},
journal = {Biology},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {41972558},
issn = {2079-7737},
support = {AP23489474//Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Republic of Kazakhstan/ ; },
abstract = {Post-viral pulmonary fibrosis represents a clinically significant and mechanistically complex consequence of severe respiratory infection. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted that a subset of survivors, particularly those with severe pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome, develop persistent fibrosis-like lung abnormalities, including reticulation and traction bronchiectasis, often accompanied by impaired gas transfer. Although the clinical course is heterogeneous and many lesions regress over time, longitudinal studies indicate that structural and functional impairment may persist for years in susceptible individuals. Oxidative stress has emerged as a plausible convergent mechanism linking acute epithelial injury, dysregulated inflammatory resolution, and chronic fibrotic remodeling. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species amplify inflammatory signaling, promote epithelial cell death and senescence, influence macrophage polarization, and activate canonical profibrotic pathways, notably the TGF-β axis. Redox imbalance is embedded within reinforcing circuits involving NOX4-dependent ROS amplification, mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammasome activation, and senescence-associated secretory programs. Persistent immune activation and organelle stress may sustain redox dysregulation beyond viral clearance, thereby bridging acute lung injury to maladaptive remodeling. This review integrates epidemiological, clinical, and mechanistic evidence to position oxidative stress as a central mediator of post-viral lung fibrosis and discusses therapeutic and translational implications.},
}

@article {pmid41972671,
year = {2026},
author = {Asaba, CN and Gwanyama, BN and Ayuk, HS and Odo, TI and Bitazar, R and Noumi, T and Labonté, P and Bukong, TN},
title = {Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Viral Infections: Regulation, Immune Consequences, and Pathogenic Outcomes.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {41972671},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {Relance 2024//The INRS-Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie Research Centre/ ; 363424//A doctoral scholarship from the Fonds de Recherche du Québec./ ; },
mesh = {*Extracellular Traps/immunology ; Humans ; *Neutrophils/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; COVID-19/immunology ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Neutrophils are among the early responders of the innate immune system and play a key role in host defense against viral infections. Beyond their classical antimicrobial functions, neutrophils can engage in a specialized defense mechanism by releasing web-like extracellular DNA known as neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). These extracellular traps are a mesh-like network of chromatin DNA decorated with cellular components, including histones, proteases, and antimicrobial enzymes, that function to contain and limit the spread of pathogens. While NET formation contributes to antiviral immunity, accumulating evidence indicates that excessive or dysregulated NET formation can significantly contribute to immunopathology during viral infections. Thus, depending on the context and outcome, NET formation may be viewed as a double-edged sword. Therefore, understanding the regulatory mechanisms governing NET formation and its harmful effects is critical for developing therapeutic strategies that enhance antiviral defense while minimizing tissue damage. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms that drive NET formation and clearance, with a particular focus on how viruses modulate these processes to influence disease outcome. We also discuss the pathways underlying NET formation and subsequent neutrophil cell death (NETosis), including canonical and non-canonical pathways, and highlight key signaling axes involving SYK, MAPKs, and NF-κB. Using SARS-CoV-2 and hepatitis B virus as representative models, we examine how different viral components trigger, exploit, or evade NET targeting and how persistent accumulation of NETs can contribute to hyperinflammation, progressive tissue injury, and post-viral syndromes. We further explore emerging evidence linking impaired NET clearance and neutrophil heterogeneity, particularly low-density neutrophils (LDNs), to chronic inflammation and post-viral sequelae such as long COVID and autoimmune hepatitis. Finally, we summarize current and emerging therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating NET formation or enhancing NET clearance. Altogether, this review underscores the dual nature of NETs in viral infections, highlighting their potential roles in antiviral defense and tissue injury, and provides a framework for the development of targeted interventions to limit virus-induced immunopathology.},
}

*Extracellular Traps/immunology
Humans
*Neutrophils/immunology
*Virus Diseases/immunology
Immunity, Innate
COVID-19/immunology
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid41972882,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Chen, B and Gao, Y and Wu, C and Shuai, Q and Yan, Y},
title = {Redox-responsive nanoparticles for enhanced mRNA delivery: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {14},
number = {15},
pages = {4546-4570},
doi = {10.1039/d6tb00186f},
pmid = {41972882},
issn = {2050-7518},
mesh = {Oxidation-Reduction ; Humans ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *RNA, Messenger/chemistry/metabolism/administration & dosage ; Animals ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {The clinical success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the therapeutic potential of mRNA while exposing persistent delivery barriers, including intrinsic instability, poor cellular uptake, and inefficient intracellular trafficking. Redox-responsive nanoparticles (NPs) provide a promising strategy to improve mRNA delivery by undergoing stimulus-triggered disassembly in the reductive cytosol, facilitating efficient mRNA release, endosomal escape, and enhanced translation. This review elucidates emerging structure-function relationships by systematically linking redox-labile chemistries (e.g., disulfide, diselenide, and polysulfide), carrier type, and NP architecture to key biological outcomes, including endosomal escape, redox responsiveness, transfection efficiency, and biodistribution. We further identify critical translational challenges-such as tumor redox heterogeneity, insufficient systematic preclinical evaluation, and manufacturing constraints-and propose actionable strategies, including multi-stimulus-responsive systems, microfluidic and process-analytical manufacturing, and formulation approaches to improve efficacy, reproducibility, and stability. Collectively, these insights provide a practical framework to guide the rational design and clinical translation of next-generation redox-responsive mRNA delivery platforms.},
}

Oxidation-Reduction
Humans
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*RNA, Messenger/chemistry/metabolism/administration & dosage
Animals
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid41973314,
year = {2026},
author = {Peddireddy, S and VanWingerden, N and Patel, P and Howard, G and Berger, J},
title = {Stellate Ganglion Block in the Treatment of Long COVID: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Current pain and headache reports},
volume = {30},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41973314},
issn = {1534-3081},
mesh = {Humans ; *Stellate Ganglion/drug effects ; *Autonomic Nerve Block/methods ; *COVID-19/complications/therapy ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Treatment Outcome ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This review evaluates stellate ganglion block as a treatment for long COVID, seeking to evaluate the treatment's efficacy by various symptoms and the limitations of the current literature.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic Review.

SETTING: Ambulatory or Outpatient Setting.

METHODS, SUBJECTS: A systematic review of the current literature regarding use of stellate ganglion block in patients with long COVID was conducted. 2 databases were searched on August 28th, 2025. Search terms were "long COVID" and "stellate ganglion block", yielding 45 results. Studies examining patient outcomes after stellate ganglion block were included. Case reports, case series, basic science studies and previous reviews were excluded. Seven studies met inclusion criteria.

RESULTS: Patients received a single stellate ganglion block in some studies and multiple stellate ganglion blocks in others. All studies reported symptomatic improvement without control groups. Response rates ranged from 55.8% to 100%. The most robust improvements (> 80% patients reporting relief) were seen in cough, dyspnea, headache, joint pain, pain interference/intensity, pins/needles, subjective relief.

CONCLUSION: Stellate ganglion block is a promising treatment that appears to generate substantive benefit for many of the symptoms seen in long COVID. However, the current literature has small, uncontrolled studies with heterogenous study designs and follow-up periods. Standardized research with larger sample sizes, control groups, and longer-term follow up is necessary to elucidate the degree of benefit. IRB approval and clinical trial registration not required.},
}

Humans
*Stellate Ganglion/drug effects
*Autonomic Nerve Block/methods
*COVID-19/complications/therapy
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Treatment Outcome

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41975034,
year = {2026},
author = {Matthews, R and Alam, A and Bullmore, E and Michael, BD},
title = {Understanding the long-term neurological effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Neurology},
volume = {22},
number = {6},
pages = {351-365},
pmid = {41975034},
issn = {1759-4766},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Nervous System Diseases/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications ; Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology/physiopathology ; },
abstract = {Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC), also known as long COVID, is a heterogeneous condition marked by persistent symptoms following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. As approximately 6% of people who have experienced acute COVID-19 are estimated to develop PCC, the potential population is vast. Many of the key symptoms of PCC reflect involvement of the nervous system, ranging from cognitive impairment ('brain fog'), headaches and fatigue to anxiety and depression. This Review summarizes the spectrum of neurological and psychological symptoms that occur following acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a particular focus on the international consensus-based core outcome set for PCC. We also explore the proposed underlying mechanisms, including evidence for immune system dysregulation, microvascular dysfunction and volumetric changes on neuroimaging. In addition, we review ongoing and completed large-scale treatment trials. Growing evidence suggests a bidirectional interaction between symptoms traditionally considered neurobiological in origin, such as cognitive deficits and headache, and those within the purview of psychiatry, such as anxiety and depression. PCC represents an opportunity to better understand the long-term consequences of acute infection and improve management strategies and outcomes, not only for people with the condition but also for those with other post-viral syndromes that affect brain health.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Nervous System Diseases/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/complications
Cognitive Dysfunction/etiology/physiopathology

@article {pmid41975314,
year = {2026},
author = {Alhumaid, S and Alkhars, O and Algrafi, AS and Dossary, NA and Elhaj, N and Majzoub, RA and Turkistani, JA and Alhumaid, SM and Shaikh, HAA and Aldiaram, A and Alahmed, AH and Alomran, SA and AlQatifi, MB and Alkolib, MJ and Almubarak, MS and Al-Helal, H and Alhaddad, AJ and Alsouaib, HA and Albahrani, AA and Aldera, AH and Alnasser, FM and Alhmeed, N and Alsulaiman, MS and Al Alawi, Z and Alghazal, HA},
title = {Vaccine effectiveness across the Omicron evolutionary spectrum (BA.2, BA.5, XBB, JN.1, KP.3): a systematic review of studies published 2022-2025.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41975314},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {*Vaccine Efficacy ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since late 2021, the Omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has undergone rapid evolutionary diversification, giving rise to successive subvariants with increasing immune escape. In response, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination strategies transitioned from ancestral-strain vaccines to variant-adapted formulations. Real-world evidence on the effectiveness and durability of these updated vaccines across the full Omicron evolutionary spectrum remains fragmented. OBJECTIVES: To synthesise real-world evidence on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 infection and severe clinical outcomes across successive Omicron subvariants from 2022 to 2025, with particular emphasis on variant-adapted vaccine formulations and waning immunity over time. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO. MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection were systematically searched for peer-reviewed observational studies published between January 2022 and December 2025. Eligible studies assessed vaccine effectiveness during periods dominated by Omicron subvariants including BA.2, BA.5, XBB, BA.2.86/JN.1, and KP lineages. Findings were synthesised narratively due to substantial heterogeneity. RESULTS: Thirty observational studies from North America, Europe, and East Asia were included. Across Omicron subvariants, vaccine effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 infection was generally modest and short-lived, with rapid waning within months after vaccination and estimates frequently approaching null during later subvariant periods. In contrast, updated and variant-adapted vaccines consistently provided meaningful protection against severe COVID-19 outcomes, including hospitalization and death. Protection was highest during BA.4/BA.5 and early XBB-dominant periods and declined with increasing time since vaccination, especially during JN.1- and KP-predominant periods and among the oldest age groups. Importantly, substantial protection against severe outcomes persisted within the first 1–3 months following vaccination, with effectiveness against hospitalization and death generally ≥ 50%, although effectiveness declined over time during later Omicron subvariant periods. CONCLUSION: Updated and variant-adapted COVID-19 vaccines continue to confer substantial protection against severe COVID-19 outcomes across successive Omicron subvariants, despite limited and rapidly waning effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings support prioritisation of periodic booster vaccination for older adults and other high-risk populations, with vaccine performance primarily evaluated using protection against severe clinical outcomes. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

*Vaccine Efficacy
Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid41975359,
year = {2026},
author = {Porter, AV and Joseph-Williams, N and Leighton, C and Gal, M and Edwards, A and Cooper, A},
title = {Barriers and facilitators to knowledge translation at the science-policy interface during the COVID-19 pandemic public health emergency: a rapid review and theoretical analysis to inform development of a logic model.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41975359},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Health Policy ; Models, Theoretical ; *Pandemics ; Policy Making ; *Public Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Translational Research, Biomedical ; *Translational Science, Biomedical/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the rapid production, synthesis, and translation of best available evidence to inform public health policy and practice decisions. This presents a unique learning opportunity to understand the interventions and strategies used to promote evidence-informed decision-making at the science-policy interface during this public health emergency and to explore what hindered or facilitated these processes. OBJECTIVES: To describe the interventions at the science-policy interface used to support knowledge translation during the COVID-19 pandemic, explore the barriers and facilitators to such interventions, and apply findings to formal knowledge translation principles to inform the development of a logic model. METHODS: A systematic literature search of Medline via OVID, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted. Studies were assessed for eligibility and critically appraised. A narrative synthesis was conducted. Knowledge translation models and frameworks were identified via Google Scholar and analysed for their applicability to a public health emergency context. RESULTS: We included 18 articles. The most common interventions at the science-policy interface were advisory committees, knowledge translation platforms and hubs, knowledge translation activities (knowledge brokering, priority-setting, workshops) and products (data visualisation and summaries). Barriers included: data availability and accessibility, time constraints, underrepresentation in advisory committees, political influence, and lack of transparency. Facilitators included: research coordination, interdisciplinary collaboration, transparency in research methods, and actionable and accessible evidence. We identified 11 knowledge translation models that contributed to the logic model. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings, developed from empirical findings and theoretical principles, offer valuable insights into how knowledge translation infrastructures and processes could be strengthened in preparation for future public health emergencies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Health Policy
Models, Theoretical
*Pandemics
Policy Making
*Public Health
SARS-CoV-2
*Translational Research, Biomedical
*Translational Science, Biomedical/organization & administration

@article {pmid41975387,
year = {2026},
author = {Rák, T and Ormai, E and Pandur, E and Horváth, G and Adrienne, C},
title = {Exploring the interplay between olfaction and vision: neuroplasticity, rehabilitation, and the therapeutic potential of herbal ingredients.},
journal = {BMC complementary medicine and therapies},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41975387},
issn = {2662-7671},
support = {PTE GYTK-KK Kollab 2025, Dr. Györgyi Horváth//University of Pécs, Faculty of Pharmacy-Clinical Centre Collaboration Funding/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Neuronal Plasticity ; Olfactory Training ; Oils, Volatile/therapeutic use ; *Vision Disorders/rehabilitation/drug therapy ; *Smell/physiology ; *Vision, Ocular/physiology ; },
abstract = {Post-COVID-19, olfactory and visual training have demonstrated health benefits, particularly for individuals with visual impairments and neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and glaucoma. Integrating olfactory training with essential oils and developing multisensory technologies could improve the quality of life for those with sensory deficits, underscoring the brain’s adaptability and the therapeutic potential of herbal ingredients. This short review commentary proposes that the neuroplastic interplay between the olfactory and visual pathways, including their demonstrated anatomical and functional convergence, may provide a conceptual foundation for integrating olfactory stimulation into future visual rehabilitation strategies.},
}

Humans
*Neuronal Plasticity
Olfactory Training
Oils, Volatile/therapeutic use
*Vision Disorders/rehabilitation/drug therapy
*Smell/physiology
*Vision, Ocular/physiology

@article {pmid41975908,
year = {2026},
author = {Noh, W and Ko, Y},
title = {Resilience-Enhancing Programs for Nurses in the Era of COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {41975908},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: In the post-pandemic era, growing concern about the mental health of healthcare professionals has led to the development of various resilience-enhancing programs. Although such programs are not new, having been implemented before the pandemic, it is important to investigate how post-pandemic programs differ from earlier ones. This review aimed to analyze resilience-enhancing programs for nurses and evaluate their effectiveness. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A search was performed in the Cochrane Library, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PubMed, and EMBASE. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was conducted using Stata version 16.0 (StataCorp LLC., College Station, TX, USA). Results: Six studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The characteristics of the included studies, such as country, study design, setting, population, outcome variables, and resilience-enhancing programs for nurses, were analyzed. The random-effects meta-analysis indicated a statistically significant positive effect on nurses' resilience (SMD = 0.58, 95% CI 0.10 to 1.07, Z = 2.35, p = 0.019). Conclusions: This study provides foundational evidence for understanding resilience-enhancing programs for nurses and highlights their potential value in post-pandemic healthcare settings.},
}

@article {pmid41976966,
year = {2026},
author = {Mihai, AM and Marc, M and Lucaciu, F and Sima, A},
title = {Incident Heart Failure Risk Following COVID-19 Recovery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {41976966},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {We would like to acknowledge the Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, for paying the APC. The funder had no role in study design, data collection/analysis, decision to publish, or manuscript preparation//Victor Babeș University of Medicine and Pharmacy Timișoara/ ; },
abstract = {Background/Objectives: While acute cardiac injury during COVID-19 is well-documented, the long-term risk of new-onset heart failure (HF) in survivors remains a critical clinical concern. This study aims to quantify the risk of new-onset heart failure during a 25 months prognostic follow-up period following recovery from SARS-CoV-2. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of nine high-quality studies (n > 400,000 survivors) in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases including PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus were searched through January 2026. A quantitative meta-analysis was performed on six studies using a random-effects model to pool adjusted hazard ratios (aHR). Results: The pooled analysis revealed a significant 35% increased risk of new-onset heart failure following COVID-19 recovery (aHR 1.35; 95% CI: 1.14-1.60; p = 0.001). Significant heterogeneity was observed (I[2] = 92.62%), reflecting diverse risk profiles among survivors. The risk was most pronounced in immunocompromised kidney transplant recipients (aHR 2.32) and younger adults under the age of 65 (aHR 1.53). Subclinical myocardial damage, characterized by reduced left ventricular longitudinal strain, was identified even in survivors who experienced mild initial infections. Conclusions: COVID-19 recovery serves as a significant independent risk factor for chronic heart failure, emphasizing that cardiovascular impact extends far beyond the acute phase. These findings necessitate the implementation of structured cardiovascular monitoring and biomarker screening for at least one year post-infection to address this emerging chronic disease burden.},
}

@article {pmid41977035,
year = {2026},
author = {Mastrangelo, H and Sacco, MA and Gualtieri, S and Grimaldi, G and Monterossi, MD and Neri, G and Aquila, I},
title = {Placental Vascular Malperfusion, Perinatal Death and Neonatal Brain Injury: A Mechanism-Based Narrative Review with Medico-Legal Implications.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {7},
pages = {},
pmid = {41977035},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Placental vascular malperfusion, on both the maternal (MVM) and fetal (FVM) side, is a key mechanism linking hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, fetal growth restriction (FGR), stillbirth, preterm neonatal death and neonatal encephalopathy. Nevertheless, clinical use and medico-legal interpretation of placental findings remain inconsistent. To summarize recent evidence on the relationship between placental vascular malperfusion, perinatal mortality and neonatal brain injury, integrating standardized placental pathology with Doppler and angiogenic biomarkers, and to outline the main medico-legal implications. Methods: A PubMed search using the string "((placenta OR placental pathology) AND (stillbirth OR fetal death) AND (maternal vascular malperfusion OR fetal vascular malperfusion))" yielded 118 records. After excluding reviews, meta-analyses, case reports (except one illustrative SARS-CoV-2 placentitis case), non-human studies and papers without original histopathology, 33 studies were included: observational cohorts and case-control studies with standardized placental assessment, autopsy series, biomarker/Doppler cohorts, mechanistic work, one randomized trial protocol and a small number of focused clinical commentaries. Results: Across these studies, MVM emerges as the dominant placental lesion in pre-eclampsia, FGR and a large proportion of stillbirths, especially in early-onset disease and in association with maternal hypertension. FVM is strongly linked to stillbirth and term neonatal encephalopathy, and specific combinations of MVM, FVM and inflammatory lesions correspond to distinct patterns of brain injury. Large population-based cohorts confirm that maternal hypertensive disorders and placental malperfusion are major upstream causes of intrauterine hypoxia and preterm neonatal death. Doppler velocimetry and angiogenic biomarkers (PlGF, sFlt-1 and their ratio) are strongly associated with an increased likelihood of underlying MVM and adverse neonatal outcomes, although their predictive performance remains probabilistic and context-dependent rather than diagnostic. Mechanistic studies suggest roles for placental genomic instability and altered decidual immunity in defective placentation. Conclusions: Maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion represent converging pathways to FGR, stillbirth, preterm neonatal death and neonatal encephalopathy. Routine, standardized placental examination, interpreted together with Doppler and biomarker data, substantially improves causal attribution and timing of injury, with direct consequences for counselling, prevention and medico-legal assessment.},
}

@article {pmid41978842,
year = {2026},
author = {Ganji, V and Kamble, B and Mustafa, F and Ravi, N and Madhusudhan, U and Archana, G and Kalpana, M and Taranikanti, M and John, NA},
title = {The Dual Burden: Long-Term Impact of COVID-19 on Tuberculosis Incidence - Presentation and Outcomes.},
journal = {Maedica},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {198-206},
pmid = {41978842},
issn = {1841-9038},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, remains a major public health concern globally ranking as the second leading infectious disease and the 13th leading cause of death worldwide. The global healthcare systems have experienced unprecedented challenges in recent years due to COVID-19 pandemic causing widespread disruptions. Delaying TB diagnosis and treatment led to lower reported incidence but could increase mortality, hindering efforts to eradicate TB. Although a few studies have focused on COVID-19 and TB cases to date, most of them are case reports. Since it is unclear whether patients with COVID-TB co-infection have a worse prognosis or more likely to develop severe disease, we believed that doing this study was a necessity. The present systematic review investigates the long-term effects of COVID-19 on TB incidence, reporting follow-up and treatment outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to explore the long-term impact of COVID-19 on TB incidence, presentation and outcome.

METHODS: We conducted our systematic review following PRISMA (Preferred reporting in systematic reviews and meta-analysis) guidelines. We performed a comprehensive literature search of EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, The Lancet, Web of Science and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The search items included "Corona virus disease 19", "impact of COVID-19", "SARS-CoV-2", "Tuberculosis", "TB and COVID-19 co-infection", "comorbidities", "prognosis", "incidence", "outcomes" and "risk factors" for articles published between the 1st of January 2020 and the 31st of June 2024. Searches were limited to English language only. We included articles with primary outcomes including studies which reported TB incidence or notification rates, clinical presentation, treatment interruption or outcomes of TB due to COVID-19 and TB-COVID-19 co-infection. Cohort studies, case-control studies, cross-sectional studies and surveillance or registry-based studies were included.

RESULTS: Information regarding COVID-19 and TB was collected from the databases, and out of 1973 articles, 41 articles were included. COVID-19 has had a negative impact on TB control programs leading to decrease in reporting of TB cases. As per the global tuberculosis report by WHO 2025, there has been approximately one-third reduction in incidence rates with TB case notifications declining by 21% of TB cases notification in 2020 compared to 2019. The reports indicated that the number of people diagnosed with TB was 7.5 million in 2022 above the baseline of 7.1 million in 2019 and 5.8 million in 2020.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 has affected TB diagnosis and control, with a significant decline in TB case notifications leaving many undiagnosed cases, thereby reversing years of progress in TB control. The high-TB burden countries like India should tackle the havoc caused by the COVID-19 pandemic by addressing the needs of the poor and having a concrete agenda and perpetual TB strategy to reach the target by 2030.},
}

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

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

@article {pmid41979592,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosińska, M and Czarkowski, MP and Sadkowska-Todys, M},
title = {Infectious diseases in Poland in 2023.},
journal = {Przeglad epidemiologiczny},
volume = {79},
number = {4},
pages = {730-749},
doi = {10.32394/pe/218649},
pmid = {41979592},
issn = {0033-2100},
mesh = {Humans ; Poland/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Adult ; Female ; Male ; Ukraine ; Middle Aged ; Infant ; Adolescent ; Child ; Registries ; Young Adult ; Aged ; Child, Preschool ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Infant, Newborn ; *Refugees/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE. The aim of this study was to summarize the epidemiological situation of infectious diseases in Poland in 2023. The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of the influx of refugees to Ukraine were taken into account. MATERIAL AND METHODS. We performed a narrative review of studies published in Epidemiological Chronicle, along with data from the national infectious disease registry, Epibaza, which collects data from epidemiological investigations conducted by the State Sanitary Inspectorate. Mortality data were obtained from reports of the Statistics Poland Office. RESULTS. In 2023, 381,244 cases of COVID-19 and 4,329 deaths due to this disease were recorded. The COVID-19 mortality rate in 2023 was several times lower than in 2022, although COVID-19 still accounted for more deaths than other infectious diseases. An "immunity gap" effect was observed following the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a significant increase in the incidence of pertussis (2.5 times compared to 2022), influenza and influenza-like illnesses, and intestinal infections (enteric salmonellosis +57.9%, campylobacteriosis +64.1%, yersiniosis +74.5%, norovirus +27.8%). A reduction in the incidence was observed for rotavirus infections, for which routine infant vaccinations were introduced in 2021. The increase in pneumococcal disease incidence occurred mainly in the adult and senior population. While the number of new HIV diagnoses among Polish nationals is increasing, the number of cases among migrants has declined, although they still account for 25% of all new diagnoses. The incidence of other sexually transmitted infections also continues to increase (compared to 2022, gonorrhoea +110.6%, syphilis +89.6%). CONCLUSIONS. For many diseases, incidence increased compared to previous years, for a variety of reasons, including the persistent "immunity gap" following the pandemic and the specific nature of the vaccination program. The impact of the influx of refugees from Ukraine was minor.},
}

Humans
Poland/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
Incidence
Adult
Female
Male
Ukraine
Middle Aged
Infant
Adolescent
Child
Registries
Young Adult
Aged
Child, Preschool
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Infant, Newborn
*Refugees/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid41981625,
year = {2026},
author = {Graessner, H and Ripp, S and Pereira, AM and Schaefer, F and Mathijssen, I and Blay, JY and Mulders, PFA and Evangelista, T and Ligtenberg, MJL and Wilde, AAM and Ladenstein, R and Lohse, AW and Mosca, M and Swart, JF and Hernández, F and Fenaux, P and Dollfus, H and Verloes, A and Wagner, T and Bodemer, C and Wijnen, R and Scarpa, M and Jondeau, G and Tumienė, B and Gallina, S and Arzimanoglou, A and Sangiorgi, L},
title = {European Reference Networks - a flagship activity of the EU in the field of rare and complex diseases: from 2017 to 2025.},
journal = {Orphanet journal of rare diseases},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41981625},
issn = {1750-1172},
mesh = {Humans ; *Rare Diseases/epidemiology ; European Union ; Europe ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Although individual rare and complex diseases (RDs) affect small patient populations, together they impact an estimated 27–36 million people across the European Union. Addressing this major public health challenge has been a long-term priority for the European Union, leading to the establishment of the European Reference Networks (ERNs) in 2017. MAIN BODY: ERNs are cross-border networks connecting clinical expert centres to share knowledge, improve and harmonise diagnosis and care for patients with rare and complex diseases. Since their inception, 24 ERNs have united 1,606 expert centres across 375 hospitals in all EU Member States and Norway. Their activities span multidisciplinary clinical collaboration, patient-centred governance, education and training, and the development of clinical guidelines. Over 4900 extremely rare or difficult cases have been discussed among experts without requiring the patients to travel abroad when expertise was not available in their own countries. A key factor for this success is the cross-border IT platform - known as the Clinical Patient Management System 2.0 - provided by the European Commission for medical discussions, which enables experts to share patient data, including medical images and lab results, in a secure and protected environment that is fully compliant with all relevant security and data privacy requirements. ERNs have demonstrated resilience in crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, providing rapid, coordinated responses to sustain care for vulnerable patient groups. The first formal evaluation in 2023 confirmed that more than 95% of member centres met quality standards, underscoring the networks’ maturity and effectiveness. Moving into the next phase, the Joint Action JARDIN (2024–2027) aims to integrate ERNs into national healthcare systems to ensure sustainability and equitable access to high-quality RD care. CONCLUSIONS: ERNs exemplify European solidarity and innovation in healthcare, transforming how rare disease expertise is shared and applied across borders. Their continued integration into national systems will be pivotal to achieving a truly cohesive European Health Union that delivers improved outcomes for all patients with rare and complex diseases.},
}

Humans
*Rare Diseases/epidemiology
European Union
Europe

@article {pmid41981866,
year = {2026},
author = {Sepúlveda, MD and Cardona Maya, WD and Zapata-Builes, W and Velilla, PA},
title = {Decoding NK Cell Subset Dysregulation in SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Phenotypic, Functional, and Transcriptomic Insights Into COVID-19 Pathogenesis.},
journal = {Scandinavian journal of immunology},
volume = {103},
number = {4},
pages = {e70115},
doi = {10.1111/sji.70115},
pmid = {41981866},
issn = {1365-3083},
support = {//Universidad de Antioquia/ ; //Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Killer Cells, Natural/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Transcriptome ; Phenotype ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology ; *Betacoronavirus/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; CD56 Antigen ; *Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology ; Immune System Exhaustion ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection significantly affects innate immune responses, particularly those of natural killer (NK) cells, which play an important role in antiviral defence. This review combines phenotypic, functional, and transcriptomic findings to explain the disruption of NK cell subsets in COVID-19. Flow cytometry studies have shown generalised lymphopenia and a significant reduction in the CD56bright and CD56[dim]CD16[+] subsets. This change is linked to an increase in the CD56[dim]CD16[-] and CD56[-]CD16[+] populations, which correlate with disease severity. At the molecular level, there is an imbalance between activating and inhibitory receptors. This includes increases in NKG2A, PD-1, and LAG-3, along with decreases in NKp30, NKp46, and NKG2D. These findings are consistent with an exhausted phenotype and weakened cytotoxicity. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies have identified an increase in proliferative, cytotoxic, and platelet-associated CD56[dim] NK subpopulations in severe cases and a reduction of CD56[bright] cells. Transcriptomic profiling showed that upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) and inflammatory pathways driven by STAT1/3, NF-κB activation, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signalling suppresses NK effector functions. Collectively, these findings suggest a model in which progressive NK cell dysfunction may be associated with the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19. The integration of multi-omic and phenotypic approaches provides a comprehensive view of NK cell responses to SARS-CoV-2 and suggests potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets to restore NK cell antiviral activity.},
}

Humans
*Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Transcriptome
Phenotype
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology
*Betacoronavirus/immunology
Immunity, Innate
CD56 Antigen
*Lymphocyte Subsets/immunology
Immune System Exhaustion

@article {pmid41981907,
year = {2026},
author = {Bechini, A and Salvati, C and Del Riccio, M and Bonito, B and Stancanelli, E and Bruschi, M and Ionita, G and Iamarino, J and Bentivegna, D and Buscemi, P and Ciardi, G and Cosma, C and Stacchini, L and Bega, M and Schirripa, A and Bertizzolo, L and Muzii, B and Azzi, MV and Parisi, S and Trippi, F and Bonanni, P and Boccalini, S},
title = {Burden and Characteristics of Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Associated Bronchiolitis in Hospitalized Infants in Italy: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Immunity, inflammation and disease},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {e70420},
pmid = {41981907},
issn = {2050-4527},
support = {//Sanofi and AstraZeneca/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Italy/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology/virology ; Infant ; *Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human/genetics ; Infant, Newborn ; *Bronchiolitis/epidemiology/virology ; Coinfection/epidemiology/virology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Seasons ; Prevalence ; Child, Preschool ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the main cause of bronchiolitis in infants. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the burden of RSV-associated bronchiolitis among hospitalized Italian infants between 2000 and 2023.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search identified studies examining RSV-related hospitalizations for bronchiolitis in children aged 0-59 months. Eligible studies met the following criteria: conducted in Italy, focused on children, reported on RSV prevalence, co-infections, genotype distribution (RSV-A, RSV-B), and seasonal trends, and published in English or Italian. Data extraction focused on study design, infant characteristics (e.g., age, preterm birth), and RSV detection methods.

RESULTS: Twenty-four studies were included. Infants under 12 months were most affected. RSV was the primary pathogen identified, though co-infections with other respiratory viruses, such as human rhinovirus, were common. RSV infections typically peaked in late autumn and winter, but the COVID-19 pandemic altered these patterns. This review highlights the significant burden of RSV-associated bronchiolitis in Italian infants. While RSV remains the primary pathogen, co-infections and pandemic related factors have altered its epidemiological trends.

CONCLUSIONS: Nationwide RSV immunization programmes and improved diagnostics are crucial to ease the strain on pediatric intensive care units. Recent recommendations for widespread RSV long-acting monoclonal antibody use in infants offer promising solutions to address this challenge.},
}

Humans
Italy/epidemiology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/epidemiology/virology
Infant
*Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human/genetics
Infant, Newborn
*Bronchiolitis/epidemiology/virology
Coinfection/epidemiology/virology
COVID-19/epidemiology
Seasons
Prevalence
Child, Preschool
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41981982,
year = {2026},
author = {Gou, H and Zhai, Y and Yu, Q and Liu, Y and Zhou, H and Zhao, Q},
title = {Epidemiological Changes in Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infections in Children and Adolescents Before and After COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {e70151},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70151},
pmid = {41981982},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {2024YFC3506000//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Mycoplasma/epidemiology/microbiology ; Child ; *Mycoplasma pneumoniae/pathogenicity ; Adolescent ; Prevalence ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Child, Preschool ; },
abstract = {Mycoplasma pneumoniae (M. pneumoniae) is a major cause of respiratory tract infections in children and adolescents, yet its epidemiological burden before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic remains unclear. This meta-analysis, which searched Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Library for reports published up to December 25, 2025, aimed to evaluate trends in the prevalence of M. pneumoniae infections across these three periods to guide clinical practice and public health responses. A total of 70 studies were included, and methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute criteria. The pooled prevalence of M. pneumoniae infections before, during, and after COVID-19 was calculated in R 4.5.0, with Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation for extreme proportions. The prevalence of M. pneumoniae infections before COVID-19, during COVID-19, and after COVID-19 was 21.72% (95% CI: 17.09, 26.73), 10.73% (95% CI: 7.57, 14.35), and 28.64% (95% CI: 22.74, 34.93), respectively. Age-stratified analysis revealed the highest prevalence consistently in children > 6 years (pre-pandemic: 46.35%; during-pandemic: 27.32%; post-pandemic: 41.36%) and the lowest in infants < 1 year (8.21%, 4.87%, and 7.81%, respectively). Seasonally, pre-pandemic prevalence peaked in summer (33.34%) and autumn (31.00%). During the pandemic, overall rates declined but remained highest in autumn (15.51%). Post-pandemic, prevalence rebounded broadly, peaking in autumn (37.97%). In conclusion, this study summarises M. pneumoniae trends in children and adolescents before and after COVID-19, indicating a delayed resurgence following the pandemic, and highlights the need for further research to explain these patterns and improve future pandemic preparedness.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Mycoplasma/epidemiology/microbiology
Child
*Mycoplasma pneumoniae/pathogenicity
Adolescent
Prevalence
SARS-CoV-2
Child, Preschool

@article {pmid41982246,
year = {2026},
author = {Welberry Smith, M and Wrigley, A and Kojro, A and Emmanouilidou, A and O'Callaghan, J and Woywodt, A},
title = {No more waiting: 10 tips to turn kidney transplantation green.},
journal = {Clinical kidney journal},
volume = {19},
number = {4},
pages = {sfag073},
pmid = {41982246},
issn = {2048-8505},
abstract = {To date, the environmental impact of kidney transplantation has received much less attention than that of dialysis. Facilitating a pre-emptive transplant is probably one of the most environmentally friendly interventions available in kidney care, as it avoids dialysis, with its requirements for water and energy. However, transplant assessment also requires scrutiny, as it involves a multitude of tests, often with duplication of tests and sometimes with little, if any, evidence (e.g. cardiac testing of asymptomatic patients). Organ retrieval often involves air travel of either the organ or a surgical team, although more innovative approaches, such as drone transport, are being tested. Transplant anaesthesia also has an environmental footprint linked to volatile substances. Surgical tray optimization is well established in other surgical specialties to reduce the effects of repeatedly sterilizing instruments that are only rarely used. Post-transplant patients have a lot of regular blood tests, and it is time we scrutinise those and find a better balance between safe care and environmental footprint. Virtual appointments have become much more common since the COVID-19 pandemic and we should use them where appropriate, for example in long-term care of stable transplant patients. Transplantation is a very research-oriented specialty, and this also has an environmental footprint that is amenable to intervention. In addition, our congresses and conferences have an environmental footprint, and it is for us to promote meetings with just as much learning and interaction but less travel, waste and energy use. The opportunities are there for us to take and our tips provide ideas for clinical teams to turn kidney transplantation into a showcase for excellent, safe and environmentally friendly care in nephrology.},
}

@article {pmid41982635,
year = {2026},
author = {Khezri, M and Holm, J and Dahlen, A and Johnson, C and Agyabeng, K and Lei, F and Pagán, JA and Healton, C and Farhat, T},
title = {Illicit drug supply, naloxone availability, and overdose mortality in the fentanyl era: a systematic review.},
journal = {Health affairs scholar},
volume = {4},
number = {4},
pages = {qxag074},
pmid = {41982635},
issn = {2976-5390},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The overdose crisis is shaped by increasing synthetic opioids and expanding access to naloxone. We synthesized evidence on associations between illicit drug supply, naloxone availability/distribution, and overdose mortality.

METHODS: Following PRISMA, we searched 4 databases for studies between 2015 and 2025. Eligible studies examined associations of drug supply indicators or naloxone interventions, and overdose mortality. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively.

RESULTS: Forty-seven studies met inclusion criteria. Eighteen studies assessed drug supply changes and all but 2 found significant positive associations between increased fentanyl reports in drug seizures and overdose mortality. Drug seizure data were interpreted as indicators of supply trends or as enforcement disruptions. Thirty-one studies assessed naloxone availability. Thirteen studies reported naloxone access laws, take-home naloxone programs, and/or community interventions were associated with reductions in overdose deaths. Nine studies reported null effects, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: Fentanyl reports in drug seizures and drug potency are key drivers of overdose mortality. This review highlights variability in interpreting drug seizure data and the need for clearer conceptualization in future research. Naloxone interventions show promise but depend on consistent implementation and effective targeting of high-risk populations. Coordinated public health strategies are needed to monitor the drug market and strengthen overdose prevention.},
}

@article {pmid41983114,
year = {2025},
author = {Gushansky, KY and Sutinen, P and Jeon, S and Tuuminen, R},
title = {Exploring the Association Between Lipid-Lowering Medications and Dry Eye Disease in COVID-19 Patients.},
journal = {Romanian journal of ophthalmology},
volume = {69},
number = {4},
pages = {536-543},
pmid = {41983114},
issn = {2501-2533},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dry Eye Syndromes/epidemiology/diagnosis/etiology/prevention & control ; Retrospective Studies ; Female ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; Aged ; *Hypolipidemic Agents/therapeutic use ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To explore the associations between systemic lipid-lowering medications and dry eye disease (DED) in patients hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2.

METHODS: This retrospective cohort study analyzed electronic medical records of SARS-CoV-2 patients hospitalized at Shaare Zedek Medical Center from April 1, 2020, to December 31, 2024. Adults without a previous DED diagnosis who had an ophthalmologic examination confirming no DED within the year preceding hospitalization were included. Exclusions included ICU admissions, specific systemic conditions, ocular surgeries, and systemic medications known to induce DED. Patients were categorized into those who developed DED within six months post-hospitalization and those who did not.

RESULTS: Among the 1,165 patients, 167 (14.3%) developed DED post-hospitalization. After adjusting for age, gender, and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status, an inverse association between statins and dry eye disease was evident. Treatment with any statin was associated with reduced odds of developing dry eye disease (OR 0.289, p<0.001), particularly with atorvastatin (OR 0.374, p<0.001) and simvastatin (OR 0.297, p<0.001).

DISCUSSION: The inverse association observed in this study supports a potential protective effect of statins, consistent with their known anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to reduce cholesterol-driven Meibomian gland dysfunction.

CONCLUSION: Statin use is inversely associated with the development of DED in SARS-CoV-2 hospitalized patients. The anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects of statins provide a robust framework for understanding the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms.},
}

Humans
*Dry Eye Syndromes/epidemiology/diagnosis/etiology/prevention & control
Retrospective Studies
Female
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Male
Middle Aged
*SARS-CoV-2
*Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
Aged
*Hypolipidemic Agents/therapeutic use
Risk Factors

@article {pmid41983631,
year = {2026},
author = {El-Kafrawy, SA and Abbas, AT and Abdel-Dayem, UA and El-Kafrawy, MS and Azhar, EI},
title = {IgY passive immunotherapy for pandemic preparedness: a One Health platform approach against pathogen X.},
journal = {Clinical microbiology reviews},
volume = {39},
number = {2},
pages = {e0024925},
pmid = {41983631},
issn = {1098-6618},
mesh = {*Immunoglobulins/therapeutic use/immunology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Immunization, Passive/methods ; Zoonoses/prevention & control ; Pandemic Preparedness ; One Health ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; Chickens ; },
abstract = {SUMMARYThe rising threat of emerging infectious diseases, especially zoonotic pathogens crossing species barriers, highlights the urgent global need for scalable, rapid-response passive immunotherapy platforms. Chicken egg yolk-derived immunoglobulin Y (IgY) antibodies offer unique conceptual and practical advantages. This review critically evaluates IgY antibodies (IgY-Abs) as a One Health immunotherapeutic strategy with strong potential for mitigating zoonotic spillover risks. Drawing on insights from SARS-CoV-2, we highlight the advantages of IgY-Abs over traditional approaches in specific scenarios while emphasizing their role as a complementary rather than replacement platform within the broader passive immunotherapy landscape. We discuss key strategic considerations, regulatory challenges, and essential knowledge gaps. Finally, we propose a forward-looking research and development roadmap that emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, optimized production methods, targeted regulatory frameworks, and integrated One Health strategies to facilitate the rapid deployment of IgY-based countermeasures against WHO-priority zoonotic pathogens.},
}

*Immunoglobulins/therapeutic use/immunology
Humans
Animals
*Immunization, Passive/methods
Zoonoses/prevention & control
Pandemic Preparedness
One Health
COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
Chickens

@article {pmid41983640,
year = {2026},
author = {Qu, Y and Xiao, Y and Liu, L and Qu, J},
title = {Diagnosis of Mucormycosis: Current Situation, Challenges and Future Prospects.},
journal = {Mycoses},
volume = {69},
number = {4},
pages = {e70175},
pmid = {41983640},
issn = {1439-0507},
mesh = {*Mucormycosis/diagnosis/microbiology ; Humans ; *Mucorales/isolation & purification ; Early Diagnosis ; Immunocompromised Host ; Biomarkers ; Artificial Intelligence ; COVID-19/complications ; },
abstract = {Mucormycosis, an aggressive fungal infection caused by members of the order Mucorales, progresses rapidly and is associated with high mortality, particularly in immunocompromised hosts such as patients with uncontrolled diabetes, transplant recipients or those with COVID-19-associated immunosuppression. Early diagnosis remains challenging with current clinical methods, yet it is essential to reduce mortality. This review examines the evolution of diagnostic strategies for mucormycosis, ranging from conventional techniques such as histopathology, culture and microscopy to advanced and emerging methods including molecular assays, serological testing, imaging and metabolomics. We also explore the ongoing transition towards integrated, rapid and non-invasive diagnostic platforms that leverage novel biomarkers, portable devices and artificial intelligence. These new technologies have the potential to facilitate early diagnosis, thereby enabling early treatment and reducing the mortality rate of mucormycosis.},
}

*Mucormycosis/diagnosis/microbiology
Humans
*Mucorales/isolation & purification
Early Diagnosis
Immunocompromised Host
Biomarkers
Artificial Intelligence
COVID-19/complications

@article {pmid41984151,
year = {2026},
author = {Myatra, SN and Nasa, P and Chanchalani, GP and Zimmerman, JL and Venkatesh, B and Machado, FR and Ostermann, M and Leeies, M and Coopersmith, CM and Sorce, LR and Weiss, B and Kuberkar, D and Abbenbroek, B and Acharya, SP and Akech, S and Akinci, SB and Al Duhailib, Z and Berger-Estilita, J and Branson, RD and De Waele, J and Derde, LPG and Divatia, MJ and Dzierba, AL and Elhoufy, AM and Fiest, KM and Fillipescu, D and Fox-Robichaud, AE and Freires, FJC and Fujii, T and Galarza, L and Gopalan, DP and Hamzaoui, O and Hidalgo, JL and Jayasinghe, AS and Kanoore Edul, VS and Lubis, AP and Matot, I and Mehta, S and Milic, V and Monnet, X and Morrow, BM and Nadkarni, VM and Needham, DM and Osinaike, BB and Patil, VP and Pérez Cornejo, MS and Perez-Fernandez, J and Ray, S and Robba, C and Rodriguez-Vega, GM and Rubulotta, F and Seifelnasr, O and Turnbull, AE and Ugarte, S and Vincent, JL and Wendon, J and Xie, J and Zabaleta Polo, YM and Burns, KEA},
title = {Gender equality and equity in intensive care: an international Delphi consensus study.},
journal = {Intensive care medicine},
volume = {52},
number = {5},
pages = {1035-1050},
pmid = {41984151},
issn = {1432-1238},
mesh = {Humans ; Delphi Technique ; Female ; *Gender Equity ; *Critical Care/standards ; Male ; *Consensus ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; Aged ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: We used Delphi methodology to provide guidance on gender equality and equity issues in professional life in intensive care, where information is evolving and no clear standard exists.

METHODS: A 12-member Steering Committee (7 women, 5 men) from 7 countries and 46 international panelists [(23 women, 21 men, 2 preferred not to disclose; median age 52 (33-75) years] from 32 countries (43% low- and middle-income) including intensive care practitioners, scientists, researchers, and trainees voted on 57 statements addressing issues related to gender equality and equity in 10 domains of professional life. Delphi rounds were conducted using online surveys. Consensus (at least 75% of panelists voting for a response option) and stability (consistent responses on iterative rounds) were assessed.

RESULTS: Six Delphi rounds were conducted between May and July 2025. A 100% response rate was achieved in each round. Consensus and stability were achieved on 43 (75%) of 57 statements from which 37 professional practice guidance statements were developed. Across domains, greater consensus was achieved on equality [23/27 (85.2%)] versus equity [12/18 (66.7%)] statements. Discordant equity statements primarily pertained to academia and engagement in multiprofessional meetings and the workplace.

CONCLUSION: Using a Delphi method, international experts reached consensus to generate 37 professional practice guidance statements. The consensus statements provide needed guidance for professional engagement and highlight areas for policy development to advance gender equity and equality for healthcare workers in intensive care. The discordant statements highlight areas for future research.},
}

Humans
Delphi Technique
Female
*Gender Equity
*Critical Care/standards
Male
*Consensus
Middle Aged
Adult
Aged
Surveys and Questionnaires

@article {pmid41984738,
year = {2026},
author = {Oliveira, TT and Medeiros, VPB and Freitas, JF and Melo Martins Silva, G and Xavier, TJDS and Fassarella Agnez-Lima, L},
title = {COVID-19 severity biomarkers identified by transcriptomics: a scoping review.},
journal = {Infectious diseases (London, England)},
volume = {58},
number = {7},
pages = {661-679},
doi = {10.1080/23744235.2026.2651977},
pmid = {41984738},
issn = {2374-4243},
mesh = {Humans ; Biomarkers/analysis ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/genetics/immunology ; Cytokines/genetics ; Gene Expression Profiling ; Severity of Illness Index ; *Transcriptome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Omics technologies, particularly transcriptomics, were widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic to investigate host and viral gene expression. Given the substantial number of studies published during this period, systematic reviews are essential for synthesising findings and identifying consistent patterns.

OBJECTIVES: This scoping review aimed to identify and evaluate transcriptomic studies of SARS-CoV-2 infection in humans published between 2020 and January 2023, with a focus on genes and pathways affected by the virus.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus, employing predefined keywords. Studies were screened using established inclusion and exclusion criteria, and only articles published in journals affiliated with the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE) or Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) were included. Data extraction followed a two-step process, collecting detailed information on sample and patient characteristics, transcriptomic methods, and main findings.

RESULTS: Despite methodological differences and varying time points of sample collection, several immune-related genes and pathways were recurrently reported. These included cytokines and chemokines (e.g. CXCL8, TNF-α, CCL2, CXCL10, and IL-1B), interferon-stimulated genes (e.g. MX1, IFI27, IRF7, and ISG15), and neutrophil degranulation markers (e.g. S100A8 and S100A9).

CONCLUSIONS: The recurrent identification of these genes underscores their potential as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of immunopathological mechanisms and supporting the development of improved diagnostic tools and early intervention strategies. However, limited reproducibility across studies poses challenges for robust meta-analyses, underscoring the urgent need for standardised guidelines and protocols to improve consistency and reliability in future research.},
}

Humans
Biomarkers/analysis
*COVID-19/diagnosis/genetics/immunology
Cytokines/genetics
Gene Expression Profiling
Severity of Illness Index
*Transcriptome

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

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

@article {pmid41985441,
year = {2026},
author = {Fields, CA and Bhattacharya, D},
title = {Plasma cell ontogenies, functions, and lifespans.},
journal = {Immunity},
volume = {59},
number = {4},
pages = {833-846},
doi = {10.1016/j.immuni.2026.01.030},
pmid = {41985441},
issn = {1097-4180},
mesh = {*Plasma Cells/immunology/cytology ; Animals ; Humans ; *B-Lymphocytes/immunology ; Cell Differentiation/immunology ; Germinal Center/immunology ; Immunologic Memory ; },
abstract = {B cell development is one of the best-understood processes within the immune system. Coordination between transcriptional programs and antigen receptor assembly determines B cell fate, diversifies the antibody repertoire, and allocates specificities to the best-suited subsets. This enables B cells to respond to a wide variety of challenges, which, when encountered, can lead B cells to seemingly converge upon a common fate: the antibody-secreting plasma cell. Yet, as we discuss in this review, this convergence is not complete. Developmental origins, anatomical sites, the nature of the challenge, and other factors all leave their marks on plasma cells in ways that diversify their functions and longevity. Looking forward, these marks may provide targets to engineer vaccines that provide durable antibody-mediated immunity.},
}

*Plasma Cells/immunology/cytology
Animals
Humans
*B-Lymphocytes/immunology
Cell Differentiation/immunology
Germinal Center/immunology
Immunologic Memory

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

DESIGN: Component network meta-analysis.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41986256,
year = {2026},
author = {Andrés, C and Prats-Méndez, I and Midgley, S and Berginc, N and González-Sánchez, A and Johannesen, CK and Antón, A and Nadal-Barón, P and Fischer, TK and Harvala, H and Benschop, KSM},
title = {Circulation Patterns, Genetic Diversity, and Public Health Implications of Enterovirus D68, Europe, 2014-2024.},
journal = {Emerging infectious diseases},
volume = {32},
number = {4},
pages = {491-499},
pmid = {41986256},
issn = {1080-6059},
mesh = {Humans ; Europe/epidemiology ; *Enterovirus Infections/epidemiology/virology ; *Genetic Variation ; *Enterovirus D, Human/genetics/classification ; Public Health ; Phylogeny ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Enterovirus D68 (EV-D68) represents a continuing public health concern, given its association with severe respiratory illness and neurologic complications. In this study, we analyzed EV-D68 circulation and genetic evolution during 2014-2024 using data from 18 countries in Europe. Of 61,297 enterovirus-positive specimens, molecular detection and viral protein 1 sequencing identified 3,541 (6%) EV-D68 cases. A biennial circulation pattern was observed; detection rates ranged from 9% in 2014 to 0.9% in 2019. The pattern was disrupted in 2020 because of measures implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but then notable increases occurred in 2021 (14%), 2022 (10.7%), and 2024 (20.6%). Subgenogroups B3 (59.8%) and A2/D (28.0%) were predominant; A2/D reemerged as dominant in 2024. Mutation analyses revealed changes in antigenic regions. Our findings underscore the persistent adaptation and resurgence of EV-D68 after COVID-19. Continued genomic surveillance is essential to monitor transmission patterns caused by antigenic changes.},
}

Humans
Europe/epidemiology
*Enterovirus Infections/epidemiology/virology
*Genetic Variation
*Enterovirus D, Human/genetics/classification
Public Health
Phylogeny
COVID-19/epidemiology

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41987085,
year = {2026},
author = {Burton, K and Best, J and DeCoster, J and Ritchwood, TD},
title = {Pandemic ready or playing catch-up? A scoping review of public health training programs for pandemic preparedness and response efforts.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41987085},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pandemic Preparedness ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Public Health/education ; Public Health Infrastructure ; *Pandemics ; *Education, Public Health Professional/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the urgent need for scalable, adaptable training programs to support public health preparedness and response. While many training initiatives emerged globally, their effectiveness, sustainability, and relevance to community needs remain uneven. This scoping review characterizes the landscape of pandemic-related training programs and identifies barriers, facilitators, and gaps in preparedness education for public health professionals, community-based organizations (CBOs), and frontline responders. METHODS: We conducted a scoping review of English-language peer-reviewed articles published between 2005 and 2023. Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to guide data extraction and thematic synthesis, we examined training programs focused on pandemic preparedness, including design, delivery, implementation processes, and evaluation strategies. RESULTS: Thirty-eight studies met inclusion criteria. Training programs varied in scope, format, and target populations, with most focused on COVID-19 and conducted in low- and middle-income countries. Programs commonly emphasized contact tracing, epidemiology, surveillance, and community engagement. While virtual formats increased accessibility, participants often preferred in-person, interactive learning. Facilitators were associated with perceived success included strong partnerships, culturally tailored materials, and improvement through feedback, while barriers were associated with program challenges included limited infrastructure, unclear learning objectives, lack of sustained funding, and inadequate evaluation. Most programs were reactive and short-term, with minimal input from community stakeholders. Trust, equity, and cultural responsiveness emerged as central themes. CONCLUSIONS: Preparedness training programs remain fragmented and overly reliant on crisis-driven implementation. Future programs would benefit from prioritizing sustained investment, co-design with community partners, and use of validated frameworks like CFIR to guide development and evaluation. Strengthening the capacity of CBOs and embedding preparedness within trusted community networks are essential to building equitable and resilient public health systems.},
}

Humans
*Pandemic Preparedness
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Public Health/education
Public Health Infrastructure
*Pandemics
*Education, Public Health Professional/organization & administration

@article {pmid41987119,
year = {2026},
author = {Oshinubi, K and Chen, Y and Doerry, E and Gel, ES and Hepp, C and Lant, T and Mehrotra, S and Sabo, S and Mihaljevic, J},
title = {A systematic review of spatial epidemiological modeling approaches applied during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41987119},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {R01 AI168144/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01AI168144//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases of the National Institutes of Health/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Epidemiological Models ; *Spatial Analysis ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: A wide range of epidemiological modeling approaches have been applied to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, which presents an opportunity to assess common approaches applied to specific research questions. Spatial models interrogate how heterogeneities and host movement dynamics influence local and regional patterns of disease, issues that were of great interest for understanding and controlling SARS-CoV-2. OBJECTIVE: Here, we present a systematic review of spatial epidemiological modeling approaches of SARS-CoV-2. We describe common themes and highlight unique strategies, providing a foundation for researchers to devise spatial models most appropriate for future pathogens and epidemics. Our review also categorizes the research questions that were addressed with spatial models, highlights parameter estimation techniques, and describes the cyber infrastructure used for model development. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review using Web of Science and a standardized set of keywords, followed by thorough examination of abstracts and full texts to determine which studies met our inclusion criteria. To guide our description and comparisons of models, we developed a Geography, Population, Movement (GPM) framework that conceptualizes the interactions between three distinct subcomponents of any spatial model. The geographic model represents the physical arena in which the model is implemented, the intra-population model describes the transmission and disease processes that occur within distinct spatial units of the geography, and the movement model describes the algorithms that dictate how hosts move among spatial units within the geography. RESULTS: The search identified a total of 193 articles, of which 109 were included in our review. The most abundant intra-population modeling methods were agent-based (47.7%) and compartmental modeling (29.4%) approaches. Movement models ranged in complexity, with the most complex models implementing commuter movement among many points of interest in the geographic arena, which were sometimes parameterized by fine-scale mobility data. Geographic models ranged from describing microcosms, such as single classrooms, all the way up to multi-country models. Of the 63.3% of models studies that specified the programming language used, we detected ten different languages, with Matlab and Python being the most frequent, although only 30.6% of studies provided open-access code for their models. We also described eight specialized software systems that were used to construct agent-based or compartment models of COVID-19. CONCLUSIONS: Our review identified and characterized a variety of spatial modeling strategies and software that were usefully employed to address many relevant epidemiological questions for COVID-19. Future research is needed to quantitatively assess which modeling approaches are most appropriate in specific situations, to answer specific questions, or to apply to certain disease systems. Moreover, future cyber-infrastructure could help to modularize and standardize modeling approaches, which would increase transparency and reproducibility, and which would facilitate a detailed examination of which model attributes relate to model performance in a variety of contexts.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Epidemiological Models
*Spatial Analysis
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41987698,
year = {2026},
author = {Bucharová, M and Hořejší, B and Kantor, J and Perimal-Lewis, L and Klugar, M},
title = {Virtual music therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic: an updated scoping review.},
journal = {JBI evidence synthesis},
volume = {24},
number = {7},
pages = {1368-1430},
pmid = {41987698},
issn = {2689-8381},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; *Music Therapy/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this update to a previously published scoping review was to map how music therapists used virtual music therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: Virtual music therapy underwent significant development during the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, the number of publications increased dramatically compared to early 2021, when only 10 records were available. An update to the previous scoping review was necessary to explore the current state of this emerging music therapy discipline and provide important information for health care practitioners, scholars, and researchers.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: This scoping review included studies examining how music therapists (population) delivered virtual, remote, or online music therapy (concept) across all client groups during the COVID-19 pandemic (context). All types of evidence were included except for literature reviews, newspaper articles, essays, editorials, letters to the editor, and bachelor's theses. The search strategy was conducted in English across relevant databases and journals.

METHODS: Following the JBI methodology for scoping reviews, we updated a scoping review published in 2021. Available evidence was searched for in databases, including searches for unpublished studies, gray literature, and relevant journal archives, along with manual searches of reference lists. The search was limited from October 2020 (the date of the previous search) until December 2024. Two independent reviewers screened all reports against the eligibility criteria and performed the data extraction.

RESULTS: The global music therapy community adapted to the restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic through a significant expansion of virtual music therapy. A total of 145 new records, along with 5 records from the original review, were included in this scoping review. The papers were from North America (n=63), Europe (n=34), Asia (n=19), and Oceania (n=16), with the rest developed through international cooperation (n=18). Most texts described virtual music therapy in the form of synchronous video calls. We reported the characteristics of the records, the types of texts, the client groups to which virtual music therapy was delivered, and the platforms and equipment used. We identified research papers (n=103), other texts (n=44), study protocols, and an evidence implementation report. We also described the challenges, facilitators, and barriers, along with the music therapy methods. Most frequently, a combination of active and receptive methods was used, with an emphasis on listening, singing, and music-based relaxation or imagery methods. Virtual music therapy was delivered to a wide range of clients, including those with various medical diagnoses and mental health issues; caregivers; and health care workers. Virtual music therapy took place in clients' homes, hospitals, or educational settings.

CONCLUSIONS: The virtual music therapy field experienced significant growth during the COVID-19 pandemic and developed into a distinct area of music therapy. This scoping review reports on a substantial body of relevant evidence, providing detailed insights into the nuances of virtual music therapy practice, which may remain useful even beyond pandemic restrictions. Future research is needed to examine the impact of virtual music therapy in the post-COVID-19 era and its potential as a complementary approach to face-to-face therapy.

REVIEW REGISTRATION: OSF https://osf.io/tnw3c/.

SUPPLEMENTAL DIGITAL CONTENT: A Czech-language version of the abstract of this review is available: http://links.lww.com/SRX/A189.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
*Music Therapy/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Telemedicine

@article {pmid41988578,
year = {2026},
author = {Vargas-Veliz, SR and Izquierdo-Cevallos, DR and Fajardo-Vargas, JE and Solórzano-Rezabala, DK and Peralta-Gamboa, DA},
title = {Psychosocial risks in Latin America: trends and research gaps.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1788232},
pmid = {41988578},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Latin America/epidemiology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Mental Health ; Bibliometrics ; Evidence Gaps ; *Stress, Psychological/epidemiology ; Working Conditions ; Burnout, Professional/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {This study analyzes the scientific evolution of psychosocial risks in Latin America through a bibliometric analysis of 1,866 articles indexed in Scopus and Web of Science between 1963 and 2026. The results show sustained growth in academic production, particularly during the last decade, accompanied by an increase in impact measured by citations. The international collaboration network reveals a structure articulated in South-South and South-North patterns, with Brazil as a regional node and the United States as a transnational bridge. The keyword co-occurrence analysis identifies three main thematic clusters: (1) mental health and psychological distress-including anxiety, depression, and stress-; (2) labor and organizational factors, including burnout, working conditions, workplace violence, and job satisfaction; and (3) the disruptive effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which reorganized the recent scientific agenda. The findings demonstrate that psychosocial risks in Latin America constitute a field in consolidation, characterized by the convergence of clinical, labor, and structural dimensions, and by growing regional visibility in the international literature. However, limitations persist, associated with the predominance of cross-sectional studies, the underrepresentation of informal and precarious sectors, and geographical asymmetries in scientific infrastructure. It is suggested to advance toward comparative, longitudinal, and interdisciplinary approaches that integrate mental health, work organization, and regional socioeconomic contexts. This study provides an empirical basis for understanding the investigative configuration of the field and guiding future research agendas, public policies, and interventions aimed at psychosocial well-being in the region.},
}

Latin America/epidemiology
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Mental Health
Bibliometrics
Evidence Gaps
*Stress, Psychological/epidemiology
Working Conditions
Burnout, Professional/epidemiology

@article {pmid41989511,
year = {2026},
author = {Sun, S and Guo, X and Liu, S and Wu, S and Ma, L and Yang, H},
title = {Probiotics and Bacteriocins Against SARS-CoV-2: Therapeutic Frontiers and Mechanistic Insights.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41989511},
issn = {1867-1314},
support = {No. C2023201049//Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province/ ; No. C20230309//Funding Program for Introducing Overseas Scholars of Hebei Province/ ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to global public health. The continuous mutations of its pathogen, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), have further complicated containment efforts. As functional foods, probiotics and their metabolites, particularly bacteriocins, are recognized for their safety and potential antiviral roles in infection prevention and health management. This review summarizes the current research status, mechanisms, and potential applications of probiotics and bacteriocins against SARS-CoV-2. Clinical and preclinical evidence indicates that specific probiotic strains, such as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GUANKE, Lactococcus lactis strain Plasma, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum MPL16/CRL1506, can effectively alleviate clinical symptoms, shorten disease duration, and reduce the risk of severe illness by modulating the gut microbiota, strengthening the mucosal barrier, and enhancing innate immune responses. Representative bacteriocins, including nisin, pediocin PA-1, plantaricin W, glycocin F, and lactococcine G, can mitigate cytokine storms and gut dysbiosis by modulating host immunity, for example, by inhibiting inflammatory factor release as observed in cellular and animal models. Furthermore, molecular docking and dynamics simulations suggest that these bacteriocins may inhibit viral entry and replication by competitively binding to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein or the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and by interfering with key viral enzyme activities. However, translating these promising findings—supported by clinical observations, animal studies, and computational predictions—into practical applications requires overcoming major bottlenecks, from mechanistic elucidation and in vivo validation to formulation development. Therefore, future research should focus on more in-depth studies to bridge the gap between experimental evidence and clinical translation.},
}

@article {pmid41990021,
year = {2026},
author = {Wandrekar, J and Ranade, K and Chakrapani, V and Lakshmi, P},
title = {Mental Health of Transgender and Gender-Diverse Persons in India: A Scoping Review of Literature Since Legal Recognition of Self-Affirmed Gender Identity, 2014-2024.},
journal = {LGBT health},
volume = {13},
number = {4},
pages = {195-214},
pmid = {41990021},
issn = {2325-8306},
mesh = {Humans ; India/epidemiology ; *Transgender Persons/psychology ; Male ; Female ; *Mental Health ; Gender Identity ; Gender-Nonconforming Persons ; *Sexual and Gender Minorities/psychology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: India's 2014 Supreme Court ruling in National Legal Services Authority v. Union of India affirmed transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) persons as equal citizens with a right to self-identified gender. This scoping review (2014-2024) sought to map TGD mental health research in India, characterize study details and themes, and identify gaps to guide future research and interventions.

METHODS: Following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we conducted a systematic search of peer-reviewed literature (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Google Scholar, specific journal search, hand search) and grey literature (Google Scholar, websites of LGBTQ organizations, and digital thesis repositories Shodh Ganga and Shodh Gangotri). All publications between April 2014 and December 2024 that focused on the mental health of the Indian transgender population were included.

RESULTS: From 246 initial sources, 124 were included in the review. The reviewed studies described prevalence rates of common mental disorders, transgender-specific psychosocial stressors, positive psychology variables, role of mental health professionals, mental health interventions and guidelines, forced gender "correction" practices, mental health impact of gender-affirming surgeries, links between sexual health and mental health, and experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: This review demonstrates substantial mental health needs among TGD communities in India but a narrow, uneven evidence base. Several articles revealed researcher misconceptions indicating ethical and epistemic harm. Priority next steps are adequately powered, intersectional longitudinal studies and rigorously evaluated, community-partnered interventions (including family support and mental health professional training) to advance gender-affirming, evidence-based care.},
}

Humans
India/epidemiology
*Transgender Persons/psychology
Male
Female
*Mental Health
Gender Identity
Gender-Nonconforming Persons
*Sexual and Gender Minorities/psychology

@article {pmid41991389,
year = {2026},
author = {de Oliveira, LMC and de Araújo, ANB and Soares, TSL and Ferreira, LP and Queiroga, BAM and de Lima, MLLT and de Arruda, RG and Lucena, JA},
title = {The Relationship Between Teachers' Vocal Production Conditions, Interpersonal Communication Competence, and Mental Health After the Pandemic in Brazil.},
journal = {Journal of voice : official journal of the Voice Foundation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jvoice.2026.03.003},
pmid = {41991389},
issn = {1873-4588},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To determine whether teachers' vocal production conditions and interpersonal communication competence are associated with mental health after the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil.

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study with an analytical approach.

METHOD: The sample comprised 361 middle and high school teachers from Pernambuco state schools. Data were collected using the following instruments: Teacher Vocal Production Condition (VPC-T) and Screening Index for Voice Disorder (SIVD), which characterized teachers' vocal profiles and working conditions; the Interpersonal Communication Competence Scale (ICCS), which assessed interpersonal communication competence; the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), which assessed trait and state anxiety; and the Self-Reported Questionnaire (SRQ-20), which suggests the level of suspicion (presence/absence) of a common mental disorder. Pearson's correlation test, multiple linear regression analysis, chi-square test, and the ANOVA test were performed for comparison analysis between variables.

RESULTS: Higher levels of anxiety and common mental distress were associated with the presence of self-reported voice disorders and less-developed interpersonal communication skills. Voice disorders were self-reported by 44.41% of teachers, while 40.44% presented high anxiety on the STAI-S and 38.78% on the STAI-T. There was an indication that 25% of teachers had common mental distress. The data also indicated that participants had good interpersonal communication skills, particularly in the domains of environmental control, self-disclosure, and immediacy.

CONCLUSION: Self-reported voice disorders and trait and state anxiety are notably present in teachers. Their vocal production conditions and interpersonal communication skills were associated with anxiety and common mental distress after the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

@article {pmid41991875,
year = {2026},
author = {Hensel, O and Pfrommer, L and Furch, P and Strutz, N and Wohlgemuth, WA and Posa, A},
title = {[Post-COVID: An inventory focusing on the key complaints PEM and POTS].},
journal = {MMW Fortschritte der Medizin},
volume = {168},
number = {Suppl 3},
pages = {3-10},
doi = {10.1007/s15006-026-5691-7},
pmid = {41991875},
issn = {1613-3560},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/therapy ; *Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome/therapy/etiology/diagnosis ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: More than five years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, its long-term effects are increasingly coming into focus. Post-COVID disease poses a significant challenge, - not only for the individuals affected, but also for healthcare providers and society as a whole. In order to improve care for post-COVID patients, the current state of research should be reviewed and the frequent and characteristic complaints post-exertional malaise and postural tachycardia syndrome should be presented.

METHOD: The literature search for this narrative review was conducted in the PubMed and Semantic Scholar databases.

RESULTS: Post-COVID symptoms are often nonspecific, diverse, and fluctuating. However, post-exertional malaise and postural tachycardia syndrome are characteristic of post-COVID when they occur newly after COVID-19 disease. Post-exertional malaise is an intensification of symptoms after exertion that occurs in about 86% of post-COVID patients. Pacing is a promising treatment approach here. Postural tachycardia syndrome manifests as autonomic, tachycardic, orthostatic dysregulation and affects up to 82% of post-COVID patients. Symptomatic therapy includes pharmacological and non-pharmacological measures.

CONCLUSIONS: Post-exertional malaise and postural tachycardia syndrome are typical and characteristic post-COVID symptoms. Current scientific findings underscore the SARS-CoV-2-related organic origin of post-COVID symptoms.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/therapy
*Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome/therapy/etiology/diagnosis
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41992382,
year = {2026},
author = {Cuteri, V and Preziuso, S and Li, Y and Laus, F},
title = {Fecal virome at the human-animal interface: a one health perspective on an uncharted frontier.},
journal = {Animal microbiome},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41992382},
issn = {2524-4671},
abstract = {The exponential growth of the human population and associated intensifications in animal farming, pet ownership, and habitat anthropisation have dramatically increased human-animal interactions. Global livestock production now exceeds 24 billion animals annually, and pet ownership has risen to over 70% of households in many developed nations, creating unprecedented interfaces for viral exchange. This heightened contact has multiplied opportunities for zoonotic and reverse-zoonotic transmission, as tragically exemplified by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The fecal virome—defined as the totality of viral nucleic acids in the gastrointestinal tract—represents a crucial, yet largely unexplored, pathway for such exchanges. While the bacterial microbiome’s role is increasingly recognized, the virome’s composition, dynamics, and transmissibility between co-habiting humans and animals remain poorly characterized. This review compiles current evidence on the fecal virome of key domestic animals (equines, livestock, pets) and their human contacts under the “One Health” framework. We critically evaluate methodological approaches—from targeted PCR to viral metagenomics—and highlight the discovery of novel viruses and identification of zoonotic agents through metagenomic approaches. Critically, we identify significant knowledge gaps, including the absence of definitive evidence for contemporary cross-species transmission versus shared ancestry or convergent evolution. We propose a strategic research agenda focused on longitudinal studies of human-animal cohorts, standardized metagenomic methodologies, and functional analyses of the virome. Elucidating the fecal virome at this interface is paramount for developing proactive surveillance strategies to predict and prevent the next emerging viral disease.},
}

@article {pmid41992508,
year = {2026},
author = {Alsaqer, K and Alhmoud, SH and Khamis, S},
title = {Healthcare Providers' Attitudes and Willingness Toward Monkeypox Vaccination in Jordan: A National Cross-Sectional Survey.},
journal = {Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.)},
volume = {43},
number = {4},
pages = {957-964},
doi = {10.1111/phn.70126},
pmid = {41992508},
issn = {1525-1446},
mesh = {Humans ; Cross-Sectional Studies ; Jordan ; Female ; Male ; Adult ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; *Attitude of Health Personnel ; *Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Mpox, Monkeypox/prevention & control ; Middle Aged ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite their crucial role, research shows that healthcare professionals are not well-informed about or adequately equipped to handle newly emerging infectious diseases like monkeypox.

AIM: This study aims to assess attitudes and willingness toward monkeypox among Jordanian healthcare providers.

METHOD: This was an analytical cross-sectional survey conducted among healthcare providers in Jordan. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire (online and paper-based, as needed) over a defined 4-8-week period.

RESULTS: A total of 638 healthcare providers participated in the study. The mean age was 35.8 ± 8.4 years. Composite measures showed moderate willingness (mean = 3.56 ± 0.78) but high concern levels (mean = 3.98 ± 0.61). Willingness did not differ significantly across most demographic variables; however, concerns were higher among single participants and those with 5-10 years of experience. A moderate positive correlation was found between willingness and concerns (r = 0.42, p < 0.001). Logistic regression identified COVID-19 vaccination history (OR = 2.22, p = 0.019), trust in health agencies (OR = 1.21, p = 0.028), and greater willingness scores (OR = 1.41, p = 0.006) as significant predictors of acceptance. Concerns did not significantly reduce the likelihood of willingness.

CONCLUSION: Jordanian Healthcare providers demonstrated relatively low immediate willingness to vaccinate, driven by substantial concerns about safety, effectiveness, and vaccine defects. Confidence in public health agencies and prior vaccination history significantly improved acceptance.},
}

Humans
Cross-Sectional Studies
Jordan
Female
Male
Adult
Surveys and Questionnaires
*Attitude of Health Personnel
*Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Mpox, Monkeypox/prevention & control
Middle Aged
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid41993129,
year = {2026},
author = {Ugwu, OP and Ogenyi, FC and Basajja, M and Ugwu, CN and Mustafa, MM and Okon, MB},
title = {Nanoparticle-mediated mRNA delivery for cancer, autoimmunity, and genetic diseases: a rapid review.},
journal = {Frontiers in drug delivery},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1793322},
pmid = {41993129},
issn = {2674-0850},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics have advanced from experimental platforms to clinical application, driven largely by the success of lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-based COVID-19 vaccines. Building on this progress, nanoparticle-mediated mRNA delivery is being extended to non-infectious indications, including oncology, autoimmune disorders, and inherited diseases. However, challenges such as extrahepatic targeting, endosomal escape, repeat-dose immunogenicity, thermostability, and scalable manufacturing remain significant barriers to translation.

METHODS: A rapid review of peer-reviewed studies and registered clinical trials published between January 2020 and October 2025 was conducted. Searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and ClinicalTrials.gov using combined terms related to RNA modality and nanoparticle delivery. Eligible studies focused on non-viral nanoparticle platforms for therapeutic, non-infectious mRNA delivery, including applications in protein replacement, genome editing, and immune modulation. Screening yielded 15 studies for inclusion.

RESULTS: LNPs remain the most clinically advanced platform for therapeutic mRNA delivery. At the same time, polymeric, peptide-based, exosome-inspired, and hybrid nanoparticle systems are expanding the delivery landscape. Emerging RNA formats, including self-amplifying RNA and circular RNA, show potential to prolong expression at lower doses. Clinically, individualized mRNA neoantigen therapy (mRNA-4157/V940) combined with pembrolizumab reduced recurrence risk by approximately 49% in high-risk melanoma in the KEYNOTE-942 phase 2b trial, supporting phase 3 development. In cystic fibrosis, inhaled CFTR mRNA (ARCT-032) advanced to phase 2 after early phase 1 data demonstrated safety and tolerability.

DISCUSSION: Evidence for non-viral nanoparticle-mediated mRNA therapeutics is strong in preclinical research and increasingly promising in clinical applications beyond vaccinology. While LNPs dominate current translation, alternative carriers and improved RNA formats may broaden tissue targeting and therapeutic durability. Advances in biodegradable ionisable lipids, organ-selective LNPs, and lyophilised or solid formulations are being developed to address persistent delivery and manufacturing constraints. As the field matures, regulatory and policy frameworks will need to align with therapeutic endpoints and support long-term safety monitoring.},
}

@article {pmid41993174,
year = {2026},
author = {Mohiuddin, N and Shah, Y and Subramaniam, S},
title = {Regulation of histones in thromboinflammation.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1791619},
pmid = {41993174},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Histones/metabolism/immunology ; *Thromboinflammation/immunology/metabolism ; Animals ; Extracellular Traps/immunology/metabolism ; Protein Processing, Post-Translational ; COVID-19/immunology ; Alarmins/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Nucleosomes/metabolism ; Inflammation/immunology ; },
abstract = {Extracellular histones, once regarded solely as nuclear structural proteins, are now recognized as potent mediators of thrombo-inflammation which is the pathological interface of coagulation and immunity. Released during necrosis, apoptosis, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, histones act as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), engaging receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4, TLR9) to trigger endothelial dysfunction, platelet activation, and cytokine release. Post-translational modifications (PTMs), including citrullination, acetylation, and methylation, further modulate histone immunogenicity, cytotoxicity, and procoagulant potential. These mechanisms amplify thrombin generation, impair anticoagulant pathways, and promote vascular permeability, positioning histones as central drivers of immunothrombosis in sepsis, stroke, ARDS, COVID-19, and autoimmune disorders. Circulating histones and nucleosomes are emerging as biomarkers for disease severity and prognosis. Therapeutic strategies targeting histones, such as neutralizing antibodies, heparin derivatives, PAD inhibitors, and activated protein C, show promise in mitigating histone-driven pathology. This review highlights mechanistic insights into histone biology and explores translational opportunities for targeted interventions at the intersection of inflammation and thrombosis.},
}

Humans
*Histones/metabolism/immunology
*Thromboinflammation/immunology/metabolism
Animals
Extracellular Traps/immunology/metabolism
Protein Processing, Post-Translational
COVID-19/immunology
Alarmins/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2
Nucleosomes/metabolism
Inflammation/immunology

@article {pmid41993206,
year = {2026},
author = {Manu, GP and Bonney, JHK and Bawa, FK and Quashie, PK and Kusi, KA and Amoah, LE},
title = {Reduced COVID-19 severity in Africa: a systematic review of host genetic and immunological responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1782808},
pmid = {41993206},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/genetics/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Africa/epidemiology ; Severity of Illness Index ; Cytokines ; African People ; T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has had immense global consequences, leading to widespread illness, deaths, and devastated economies. Despite this, Africa has experienced a high prevalence of asymptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and mild cases. While reported cases and deaths have been lower, limited testing and undiagnosed infections make it difficult to determine the true burden of the disease. Understanding the unique immune response and the variations in genetics affect COVID-19 outcomes in African populations is important for shaping future public health responses. This review examines key immune factors and genetic variations in key host proteins that may help explain why COVID-19 was less severe in Africa.

METHODOLOGY: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines to identify studies published between 2019 and January 2026 that investigated immunological responses and genetic variations associated with COVID-19 in African populations. Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and African Journals Online (AJOL). Inclusion criteria focused on studies reporting responses from cytokines, T-cells, antibodies or host genetic factors. After screening 4,170 records and removing duplicates, 420 studies were assessed for abstracts, and 240 full texts were reviewed. A total of 40 studies were included, and data synthesized narratively due to heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes.

RESULTS: Of the 40 studies analyzed from 19 African populations, 26 focused on immunological responses and 9 on host genetic factors. Immune studies revealed widespread pre-existing immunity, including cross-reactive antibodies (especially to the N proteins) and polyfunctional T-cell responses, likely shaped by exposure to malaria, helminths, and other coronaviruses. Severe COVID-19 cases showed elevated IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ, while asymptomatic individuals had broader, milder cytokine profiles. Antibody responses were robust across disease severities, with long-lasting IgG activity. Genetic studies identified HLA-B41, B42, C16, and C17 as risk alleles, while HLA-DQB106, DQB103, and B*15 conferred protection. ACE2 polymorphisms including rs2285666, rs73635825 were reportedly prevalent in Africans and were linked to varied ACE2 expression, viral load, and disease severity.

CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that immune and genetic adaptations in African populations may have modulated susceptibility and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection outcomes in Africans.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view, identifier CRD420251121731.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/genetics/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Africa/epidemiology
Severity of Illness Index
Cytokines
African People
T-Lymphocytes/immunology

@article {pmid41993579,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, JH and Shim, SR and Shin, J and Choe, WH and Park, J and Lee, TH and Kang, S and Rhee, TG and Huh, KC},
title = {Clinical effects of ursodeoxycholic acid in COVID-19 infection: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1719144},
pmid = {41993579},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Previous studies have shown that ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) reduces COVID-19 infection by inhibiting farnesoid X receptor activity, a direct regulator of ACE2. Even though UDCA, an easily accessible medication with few side effects, could be considered for administration to prevent infection and relieve symptoms for COVID-19 infection, there are limited supporting studies with a high-level of evidence and recommendations for the exact dosage of UDCA. We conducted a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis to evaluate the clinical effect of UDCA in COVID-19 infection.

METHODS: Studies were identified through a literature search: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane from inception to March 2025. We included research related to COVID-19 infection and UDCA. Primary outcomes were COVID-19 infection rate, mortality rate, COVID-19 severe infection risk, ventilator use, hospitalization, ICU hospitalization, and recovery time between UDCA group and controls. The secondary outcome was UDCA dose-response association regarding infection risk. We analyzed for odds ratios (ORs), including infection rate, mortality rate, severe infection risk, ventilator use, hospitalization, and intensive care unit hospitalization, and for standardized mean difference (SMD), including recovery time between UDCA groups and controls. Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) was used to evaluate bias risk.

RESULTS: Of 188 articles, 15 cohort studies with 716,310 participants (control = 495,276; UDCA treatment = 221,034) were included. The level of risk of bias was seven studies at low, four at moderate, and four at serious. UDCA showed association with a lower risk of infection (OR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.55-0.86), lower severe infection risk (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.64-0.89), and ventilator use (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.62-0.90) compared to controls.

CONCLUSION: The findings support evidence for the clinical effects of UDCA for COVID-19 infection. There is a need for randomized trials to evaluate UDCA as a potential prophylactic agent against COVID-19.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251019195, identifier #CRD420251019195.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41995349,
year = {2026},
author = {Schiffer, JT and Reeves, DB and Mayer, B and Rodriguez, LR and Duke, ER and Haddock, B and Avila-Ponce de Leon, U and Iwami, S and Owens, K and Esmaeili-Wellman, S},
title = {Clinical trial simulation of antiviral drugs.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {100},
number = {5},
pages = {e0181424},
pmid = {41995349},
issn = {1098-5514},
support = {R01AI77512//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; R01 AI186721/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI150500/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Clinical Trials as Topic ; Computer Simulation ; Viral Load/drug effects ; Models, Theoretical ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/virology ; Models, Biological ; },
abstract = {Antiviral clinical trial simulation (CTS) is a type of mathematical modeling that couples viral- immune dynamics (VID) unique to each human viral pathogen, with mechanistic, pharmacokinetic (PK), and pharmacodynamic (PD) drug characteristics. Validation is achieved by matching model output to detailed viral load trajectories from trials. Antiviral CTS can be applied at all stages of drug development to viruses with distinct shedding patterns. Models can capture the activity of small molecules, neutralizing antibodies, and cellular therapies, as well as combination strategies to enhance potency and avoid drug resistance. Several principles are observed across antiviral CTS models. First, PK and PD models that recapitulate drug levels and concentration-dependent antiviral activity are often necessary, but never sufficient to predict trial results. VID equations are also required to guide optimal treatment timing because expanding immune responses synergistically eliminate infection but are deleterious if too sustained or intense. Therefore, equivalent antiviral doses may have different efficacy if given during different infection stages. Second, antiviral CTS models identify effective plasma drug concentrations in humans, which are often poorly predicted by in vitro assays. Finally, models that do not consider drug mechanisms lead to incorrect efficacy estimates. Data-validated CTS is increasingly used to inform drug dose and dosing interval, treatment timing and duration, virologic endpoint selection, and sample size, particularly when applied to detailed phase 1 and 2 trial data. Given the high expense of antiviral licensure trials, CTS models are vital to optimize trial efficacy and de-risk the drug development process.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacokinetics/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Humans
*Clinical Trials as Topic
Computer Simulation
Viral Load/drug effects
Models, Theoretical
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/virology
Models, Biological

@article {pmid41995633,
year = {2026},
author = {Kruger, EC and Fataar, A and Kengne, AP and Erasmus, RT and Zemlin, AE},
title = {Mapping the evidence: a scoping review of the impact of COVID-19 on non-communicable disease care in Sub-Saharan Africa.},
journal = {Critical reviews in clinical laboratory sciences},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-13},
doi = {10.1080/10408363.2026.2651301},
pmid = {41995633},
issn = {1549-781X},
abstract = {Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of mortality globally and account for a growing proportion of the disease burden in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where health systems face significant resource constraints. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare delivery globally, raising concerns that interruptions to routine NCD care could lead to higher morbidity and mortality among populations requiring ongoing care. Although evidence of the pandemic's impact on NCD care has been documented in high-income settings, the experience of SSA health systems, which entered the pandemic with preexisting infrastructure and workforce limitations, remains incompletely understood. This scoping review aimed to systematically map the evidence on COVID-19's impact on NCD care in SSA and to identify service adaptations implemented to maintain care continuity during the pandemic. Studies examining the COVID-19 pandemic and disruptions in NCD screening, diagnosis, or monitoring among adults in SSA were identified from four electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, EBSCOhost, and Web of Science. The search strategy combined Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords related to geographic location (SSA), exposure (COVID-19 pandemic and related public health measures), and outcomes (screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of NCDs). Inclusion was limited to original research published between March 2020 and December 2023, written in English, French, or German, and reporting observational data on pandemic-related disruptions to NCD care. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full texts, with data extraction conducted using a standardized form capturing study characteristics, NCD types examined, nature of documented disruptions, and reported innovations. Twenty-eight studies were eligible for inclusion across seven countries in SSA, with the majority of evidence originating from South Africa and Ethiopia. Included studies were mainly retrospective and cross-sectional, with some using mixed-methods and time-series designs, and examined various NCDs, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and cancers. Sample sizes ranged from fewer than 100 participants to datasets exceeding 9 million records. Due to the heterogeneity of study designs, populations, and outcomes, findings were synthesized narratively. Six major themes emerged: disrupted access to routine care, interruptions to diagnostics and monitoring, medicine supply chain challenges, adoption of remote care models, health equity impacts, and clinical outcome implications. The pandemic was associated with widespread barriers to healthcare access, diagnostic delays, and medication shortages, with the implementation of innovations such as telemedicine and community-based delivery often hindered by technological and resource limitations. COVID-19 significantly disrupted NCD care across SSA, though health systems demonstrated notable capacity for adaptation, emphasizing the need for resilient service delivery models and equity-focused monitoring to safeguard care during future health emergencies.},
}

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41996892,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, C and Yuan, X},
title = {Respiratory viruses as key drivers of pulmonary fibrosis: integrated pathways from barrier injury to immune-fibrotic crosstalk.},
journal = {Virology},
volume = {620},
number = {},
pages = {110913},
doi = {10.1016/j.virol.2026.110913},
pmid = {41996892},
issn = {1096-0341},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology/immunology/pathology ; Signal Transduction ; Animals ; Transforming Growth Factor beta/metabolism ; Macrophages, Alveolar/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; COVID-19/complications/virology/immunology ; Lung/virology/pathology/immunology ; },
abstract = {Pulmonary fibrosis (PF), a highly heterogeneous form of interstitial lung disease, presents substantial challenges for both basic research and clinical management due to its complex pathogenesis and poor clinical outcomes. In recent years, PF induced by respiratory viral infections has emerged as a forefront topic in respiratory medicine. However, the dynamic regulatory network linking virus-mediated alveolar epithelial injury, aberrant tissue repair, and fibroblast activation remains incompletely understood. This review focuses on representative respiratory viruses-including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), seasonal influenza viruses, and highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses-and analyzes, from multiple mechanistic dimensions, how viral infection drives the development of PF. The article analyzes how viral infections contribute to tissue damage and functional loss in the lungs via direct host-cell injury, dysregulated immune responses, and disturbances in epigenetic regulation. In particular, the review highlights the aberrant activation of the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling pathway and virus-induced polarization of alveolar macrophages as key processes in the progression of fibrosis. Furthermore, this review systematically summarizes the shared molecular pathways triggered by viral infections in the development of PF and their potential biomarkers, providing a theoretical basis for targeted therapies. In conclusion, respiratory viruses are not only significant etiological factors in PF, but also accelerate the fibrotic process through immune-fibrotic interactions. This review provides a theoretical framework for a deeper understanding of virus-induced PF and outlines directions for the development of targeted therapies and clinical intervention strategies.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Fibrosis/virology/immunology/pathology
Signal Transduction
Animals
Transforming Growth Factor beta/metabolism
Macrophages, Alveolar/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
COVID-19/complications/virology/immunology
Lung/virology/pathology/immunology

@article {pmid41998470,
year = {2026},
author = {Ho, JKY and Brewster, A and Kienzler, H and Brown, JSL},
title = {Perceived Discrimination and Mental Health Among First-Generation East Asian Immigrants: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of racial and ethnic health disparities},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41998470},
issn = {2196-8837},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Research has found that first-generation immigrants often experience poorer mental health outcomes than later-generation immigrants and native-born individuals. Perceived discrimination is a key factor, exacerbated by recent global events such as COVID-19. However, much of the literature aggregates immigrants of different Asian ethnicities and generational statuses, despite documented disparities in mental health outcomes. This review aims to address this gap in literature by systematically reviewing empirical studies that explore the relationship between perceived discrimination and mental health outcomes of first-generation immigrants from East Asia only. METHODS: This review was registered on the PROSPERO international registry for systematic review protocols (Registration Number: CRD42024505188). Five databases (Embase, PsycINFO, Medline, Web of Science and Scopus) were searched for quantitative, English-language studies that explored the relationship between perceived discrimination and validated measures of mental health outcomes among first-generation East Asian immigrants. Studies were appraised for methodological quality using The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies tool [1]. Findings were synthesised narratively due to heterogeneity in methodology across studies. RESULTS: Out of 1,061 screened articles, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. All included studies explored perceived discrimination, through racial discrimination. Only studies of Korean or Chinese first-generation immigrants were found. Ten studies reported a significant association between perceived racial discrimination and poorer mental health outcomes, particularly depressive symptoms. A range of variables that influenced this relationship were also identified, with degree of social support emerging as a consistent factor. Methodological limitations included inconsistent control for relevant sociodemographic or immigrant-related variables and differences in in exclusion or inclusion criteria used in the different studies. CONCLUSION: Overall, the findings highlight that experiences of perceived racial discrimination have a detrimental impact on the mental health of first-generation Korean and Chinese immigrants. However, inconsistencies in the measurement and study design presented challenges for synthesising the results and drawing firm conclusions, particularly regarding the role of influencing variables. Future research should use more consistent measures of perceived discrimination and mental health to better quantify the outcomes and understand the mental health implications. Research should also continue to disaggregate data by both generational status and specific East Asian ethnic groups, particularly those underrepresented in the current review, such as Japanese, Taiwanese, and Mongolian immigrants.},
}

@article {pmid41998754,
year = {2026},
author = {Amanat, N and Hosseini, SH and Habibisaravi, R and Omrani, MG},
title = {COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in pediatrics: a systematic review.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41998754},
issn = {2046-4053},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Parents/psychology ; Child ; Pediatrics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vaccination/psychology ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Infant ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccine-preventable diseases remain among the top ten global health threats. These findings indicate an important link between health and vaccine literacy. Children are less affected by COVID-19 than adults are but can be particularly vulnerable in communities with inadequate and weak infrastructure. One in five parents was skeptical about the COVID-19 vaccine. The present study combined the findings of previous studies to identify the reasons for parental hesitancy related to children's COVID-19 vaccination.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to investigate vaccine hesitancy among parents of children aged 0-18 years in the context of COVID-19. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using the keywords "vaccine hesitancy," "pediatrics," and "COVID-19" for studies published between January 2019 and August 2024. Eligible studies were published in English and focused on parental perspectives. Two independent reviewers screened 2950 records, extracted data, and assessed study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal checklists. Thematic analysis identified key drivers of vaccine hesitancy.

RESULTS: Of the 48 full-text articles screened, 22 studies met the eligibility criteria. The included studies took place in 11 different countries. The thematic analysis resulted in two main headings: (1) vaccine-related concerns, which included safety/trust concerns (100% of studies) and accessibility barriers (13.6%), and (2) user-related concerns: risk perception (31.8%), lack of knowledge (50%), cultural manifestation (13.6%), and previous medical conditions (31.8%). Universal concerns about safety and trust were evident in all studies, while cultural and accessibility barriers were context-specific and fluctuated by region and population.

CONCLUSION: The study points to interventions for reversing parental hesitation towards pediatric COVID-19 vaccination, like tailored education programs, streamlining distribution procedures, creating public acceptance through local community opinion leaders, and appropriate risk communication by public health institutions. All of these can contribute to making sound policies and making future immunization planning easier.},
}

Humans
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Parents/psychology
Child
Pediatrics
SARS-CoV-2
*Vaccination/psychology
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Infant

@article {pmid41999993,
year = {2026},
author = {Farsiu, N and Khodadadpour Mahani, F and Arefinia, N and Charostad, J and Pardeshenas, M and Mirzaei, H and Nakhaie, M and Hassandarvish, P and AbuBakar, S},
title = {From legacy to innovation: A comprehensive review of vaccine platforms against viral infections.},
journal = {Virus research},
volume = {368},
number = {},
pages = {199730},
pmid = {41999993},
issn = {1872-7492},
mesh = {Humans ; *Virus Diseases/prevention & control/immunology ; Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/immunology ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; Vaccines, DNA/immunology ; Vaccination/methods ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Vaccines, Subunit/immunology ; Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {Viral infections continue to pose a substantial global health concern, resulting in extensive morbidity and mortality among various populations. Although conventional vaccinations have been pivotal in managing and eliminating certain viral infections, the introduction of new viruses and the resurgence of existing ones underscore the ongoing necessity for creative immunization techniques. This review offers an extensive examination of both conventional and novel vaccine platforms for preventing viral diseases. It analyzes traditional approaches such as inactivated and attenuated vaccines in conjunction with innovative technologies, including subunit, viral vector-based, DNA, mRNA, and virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines. Furthermore, novel strategies to enhance vaccination efficacy, including nanoparticle-based and plant-derived vaccines, are examined. Each platform is evaluated according to its mode of action, immunogenicity, safety, scalability, and adaptation to novel threats. Empirical instances, especially observations from the COVID-19 pandemic, are employed to underscore the achievements, obstacles, and pragmatic utilization of these tools. By reviewing the scientific foundations and developmental pathways of diverse vaccine strategies, this paper offers a more profound understanding of the evolving landscape of viral vaccine development. Finally, this review emphasizes the critical role of innovation in strengthening global readiness for current and future outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*Virus Diseases/prevention & control/immunology
Vaccines, Virus-Like Particle/immunology
*Vaccine Development/methods
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
Animals
Vaccines, DNA/immunology
Vaccination/methods
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Vaccines, Subunit/immunology
Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology
Vaccine Efficacy

@article {pmid42000530,
year = {2026},
author = {Yoshii, K and Kunisawa, J},
title = {Alcaligenes lipid A: a unique TLR4 agonist mucosal adjuvant inducing secretory IgA and Th17 responses.},
journal = {Current opinion in virology},
volume = {76},
number = {},
pages = {101533},
doi = {10.1016/j.coviro.2026.101533},
pmid = {42000530},
issn = {1879-6265},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of infectious disease control. In this context, intensive efforts are underway to develop novel vaccine modalities that will enable the production of effective and safe vaccines in preparation for future pandemics caused by emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. To maximize the performance of these new modalities, adjuvants tailored to the characteristics of each platform are indispensable. In particular, the ability to elicit appropriate immune responses with minimal amounts of antigen is a critical determinant of both vaccine efficacy and safety in the development of mucosal vaccines that confer protection against infection by inducing immune responses in mucosal tissues - the primary sites of pathogen entry. Consequently, the development of superior adjuvants is a key factor for the practical implementation of mucosal vaccines. In this article, we focus on adjuvant development aimed at the creation of mucosal vaccines and introduce our efforts to apply Alcaligenes-derived lipid A to mucosal vaccine platforms.},
}

@article {pmid42000586,
year = {2026},
author = {Gulati, RR and Yaqub, F and Goodman, AL},
title = {Enhancing uptake of respiratory vaccinations in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients: a systematic review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {81},
number = {},
pages = {128560},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128560},
pmid = {42000586},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/immunology ; *Asthma/immunology ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Vaccination/statistics & numerical data ; Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; Patient Education as Topic ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Despite influenza, pneumococcal and COVID vaccines being widely recommended for patients with chronic respiratory disease, vaccination rates in this cohort remain low. The aim of this systematic review is to identify interventions which are effective in increasing respiratory vaccination rates in adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma.

METHODS: The inclusion and exclusion criteria for the study can be found in the PROSPERO protocol (PROSPERO registration no: CRD42025588565). A search was run across four databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov) in February 2025, which returned 2537 studies. Eleven studies were deemed to meet the study inclusion/exclusion criteria and these were narratively synthesised: four randomised clinical trials (RCTs), six longitudinal studies and one observational cohort study. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane's Risk of Bias (RoB-V2) and ROBIN-I-V2 tools. Studies were categorised according to the COM-B model of behaviour change.

RESULTS: All 11 studies consisted of COPD populations, with four studies also including asthma patients. Interventions focused on patient education, with/without involvement of a healthcare professional (HCP). Nine of the eleven studies showed a statistically significant improvement in influenza and/or pneumococcal vaccination rate with an intervention. No studies assessing COVID vaccine uptake in this population were suitable for inclusion. Most studies targeted patients' capability to get vaccinated through improving patients' and HCPs' knowledge. Fewer studies focused on social opportunity (e.g. support from other patients/HCPs) or automatic motivation (e.g. reminders).

DISCUSSION: The published literature in this area is currently limited. Most studies are non-randomised and are at high-risk of bias, making meta-analysis not possible. Further research should assess the practicalities (physical opportunity) of vaccination, especially in low-income economies (where most respiratory patients reside) and standardising research methods to allow for future meta-analysis.

OTHER: There is no funding for this review.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/immunology
*Asthma/immunology
Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Vaccination/statistics & numerical data
Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
COVID-19/prevention & control
Influenza, Human/prevention & control
Patient Education as Topic
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

@article {pmid42000938,
year = {2026},
author = {Ramirez Campos, MS and Barati, K and Samavi, R and Pires, P and Duncan, L and Sassi, RB and Noseworthy, MD and Gadsden, SA and Doyle, TE},
title = {Multimodal artificial intelligence and online learning in youth mental health: a scoping review.},
journal = {Npj mental health research},
volume = {5},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42000938},
issn = {2731-4251},
abstract = {Youth mental health-related problems and disorders have garnered increased attention due to global prevalence estimates that have, in some cases, increased following the COVID-19 pandemic. Various methodologies have been proposed to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) for detecting mental health problems in the general population; however, research specifically focused on AI methods for youth remains limited. Shortcomings in modern AI include limited training data modalities (i.e., types of input data used for model training), reliance on offline training, and the use of static models. This scoping review provides an overview of evidence that uses AI methods applied to youth mental health (YMH) and provides an assessment of the current state of research that integrates multimodal AI (i.e., models that incorporate multiple data modalities) and/or online learning (i.e., incremental or continual model training from streaming data) for the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of YMH-related problems. The findings indicate that research in AI applied to YMH is limited in the areas of multimodal AI and online learning. The number of studies in this field is steadily growing. Studies incorporating online learning demonstrate that this approach enhances model performance and adaptability, which is crucial for developing translational models capable of addressing real-world challenges effectively. Despite these advances, key challenges remain, including the availability and long-term validity of multimodal data, the lack of participant-related information in certain databases and studies, the ethical and logistical difficulties of collecting data from minors, and the computational costs of training robust AI models.},
}

@article {pmid42001013,
year = {2026},
author = {Marks, Y and Cunningham, J and Jiang, A and Li, L and Lin, YS and McGrory, A and Ouyang, Y and Tran, NA and Wang, Y and Heath, A},
title = {A systematic review of sample size determination in Bayesian randomized clinical trials: full Bayesian methods are rarely used.},
journal = {BMC medical research methodology},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42001013},
issn = {1471-2288},
support = {463252//Canadian Institutes for Health Research Grant/ ; CIHR Grant #184898//CANSSI-CRT award; CIHR CANTRAIN program/ ; RGPIN-2021-03366//Canada Research Chair in Statistical Trial Design; Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; },
mesh = {Bayes Theorem ; Humans ; Sample Size ; *Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/methods/statistics & numerical data ; *Research Design ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Utilizing Bayesian methods in clinical trials has become increasingly popular, as they can incorporate prior information into the design, and allow for smaller sample sizes while providing reliable and robust statistical results. Various Bayesian methods for sample size determination are available, and while these methods are well justified and understood, it is unclear how they are being used in practice. This study aims to understand how sample sizes for Bayesian efficacy randomized clinical trials (RCTs) are determined and inform future designs of Bayesian trials. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted in May 2023 and updated in July 2025. We included completed RCTs which (a) assessed the efficacy of interventions in humans; (b) utilized a Bayesian framework for the primary data analysis; (c) published in English; and (d) enrolled participants between December 2009 – July 2025. RESULTS: The literature search produced 74,833 records, of which 27,890 were duplicates, and 46,943 were screened using manual and automated screening. 283 full texts were screened and 164 studies moved to extraction. Our findings demonstrate a slow increase in RCTs using Bayesian methods to analyse primary efficacy data from 2012 onwards, with a sharp increase during the COVID-19 pandemic (42%). The most common method for sample size determination in Bayesian RCTs was a hybrid approach (58%) in which elements of Bayesian and frequentist theory are combined. Bayesian RCTs predominantly took place in North America (34%) and mainly focused on adult study populations (85%). Bayesian trials were used in a variety of disease areas; the most common being COVID-19 (31%). CONCLUSION: Fully Bayesian methods for sample size determination are rarely used in practice, despite significant theoretical development. Our review revealed a lack of standardized reporting across Bayesian RCTs, making it challenging to review the sample size determination. The CONSORT statement indicates that RCTs must report sample size calculations; adhered to by only 84% of included RCTs. Among RCTs that reported sample size determination, relevant information was frequently omitted from reports and discussed in poorly structured supplementary materials. Thus, there is a critical need for greater transparency, standardization and translation of relevant methodology in Bayesian RCTs.},
}

Bayes Theorem
Humans
Sample Size
*Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic/methods/statistics & numerical data
*Research Design
COVID-19/epidemiology