@article {pmid41641375,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, J and Liu, Y and Ren, S and Wang, Z and Li, Y and Peng, L and Fang, R},
title = {Natural Products as Potential Resource Library for Control of Major Swine Enteric Viruses.},
journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {4368881},
pmid = {41641375},
issn = {1865-1682},
mesh = {Animals ; Swine ; *Biological Products/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Swine Diseases/virology/prevention & control/drug therapy ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacology ; Transmissible gastroenteritis virus/drug effects ; Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/drug effects ; Rotavirus/drug effects ; Deltacoronavirus/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Major swine enteric viruses (SEVs), including porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), and porcine rotavirus (PoRV), cause severe gastrointestinal diseases in pigs, leading to huge economic losses to the swine industry around the world. In the absence of specific drugs and vaccines for controlling SEVs in the pig production, this review summarizes the inhibitory effects of natural products against these major porcine enteric viruses. Specifically, it focuses on recent studies regarding the anti-SEVS activities of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) compound formulas, herbal extracts, pharmaceutical monomers, and natural metabolites. The review elaborates on how these natural products exert antiviral activities against SEVs, highlighting their potential as alternative or complementary agents for controlling porcine enteric viral infections. Overall, this work provides a comprehensive overview of the research progress in natural products against porcine enteric viruses and demonstrates the new strategies for medicine discovery, which will be helpful for further development of effective antiviral strategies in the swine industry.},
}

Animals
Swine
*Biological Products/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Swine Diseases/virology/prevention & control/drug therapy
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology
Transmissible gastroenteritis virus/drug effects
Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/drug effects
Rotavirus/drug effects
Deltacoronavirus/drug effects

@article {pmid41643087,
year = {2026},
author = {Di Líbero, E and Duarte, A and Kaneshiro, V and Gañete, M and Aronson, S and López Furst, MJ},
title = {[Management of Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Adults - Argentine Society of Infectious Diseases].},
journal = {Medicina},
volume = {86},
number = {1},
pages = {145-165},
pmid = {41643087},
issn = {1669-9106},
mesh = {Humans ; *Community-Acquired Infections/drug therapy/diagnosis/therapy/microbiology ; Argentina ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; Adult ; *Pneumonia/drug therapy/diagnosis ; Community-Acquired Pneumonia ; },
abstract = {Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Epidemiological surveillance indicates that Streptococcus pneumoniae remains the most frequent etiological agent and the leading cause of mortality. However, with the advent of new diagnostic techniques, viral etiology has gained priority. Chest X-ray is considered mandatory to confirm the diagnosis and establish the spread. Microbiological, antigen, molecular, biomarker, and carriage tests have specific indications and a role to play in reconsidering empirical treatments. Severity scales are useful for defining the site of care, and the most validated prognostic models are PSI and CURB-65. When antibacterial treatment is appropriate, aminopenicillins ± beta-lactamase inhibitors are the preferred treatment, with the addition of a macrolide in severe cases. Pseudomonas and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus should be considered primarily in patients with a history of prior infection/colonization or severe structural lung disease. Shortened courses have gained support in the literature, and once clinical stability is achieved, it is suggested that treatment be continued for 3-5 days for CAP managed in an outpatient/general ward setting, and 5-7 days for CAP requiring intensive care. The role of corticosteroids in reducing mortality has been documented in severe forms. The benefit of neuraminidase inhibitors for influenza is of low certainty and relatively marginal. Treatments that have had an impact on reducing mortality from severe-critical COVID-19 are corticosteroids, IL-6 receptor blockers, and baricitinib.},
}

Humans
*Community-Acquired Infections/drug therapy/diagnosis/therapy/microbiology
Argentina
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
Adult
*Pneumonia/drug therapy/diagnosis
Community-Acquired Pneumonia

@article {pmid41643088,
year = {2026},
author = {Beltramino, MF and Gasser, FB and Stassi, AF and Ortega, HH and Baravalle, ME},
title = {[Evaluation of reproductive and developmental toxicity: its importance in the preclinical phase of new vaccines].},
journal = {Medicina},
volume = {86},
number = {1},
pages = {166-178},
pmid = {41643088},
issn = {1669-9106},
mesh = {Animals ; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical/methods ; Female ; *Reproduction/drug effects ; Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/toxicity ; Pregnancy ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Embryonic Development/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Preclinical trials in laboratory animals, particularly those aimed at evaluating potential effects on reproduction and offspring development, have gained importance in recent years due to the development of new drugs and vaccines intended for both children and individuals of reproductive age. The current challenge lies in the need for reliable and rapidly obtainable data to enable the transition of new compounds to clinical phases and eventual approval. Since pregnant and breastfeeding women are often excluded from clinical vaccine trials, including those assessing toxicity, there is limited knowledge about this vulnerable population and their offspring. In this context, preclinical studies designed to assess the effects of vaccine and therapeutic candidates on reproduction and development must rely on in vivo models that accurately replicate key aspects of the pathogenesis observed in human disease. When evaluating the reproductive toxicity of vaccines, it is essential not only to assess potential effects on fertility, embryogenesis, development, and reproduction, but also to consider the interactions of the vaccine with the immune system of both the mother and her offspring. This review updates and describes preclinical studies in laboratory animals for new vaccines, particularly those developed against COVID-19, highlighting published studies on reproductive and developmental toxicity, as well as the current regulatory framework governing such studies.},
}

Animals
Drug Evaluation, Preclinical/methods
Female
*Reproduction/drug effects
Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/toxicity
Pregnancy
COVID-19/prevention & control
Embryonic Development/drug effects

@article {pmid41643233,
year = {2026},
author = {Anderson, SA and Smith, ER and Wan, Z and Amend, KL and Secora, A and Djibo, DA and Kazemi, K and Song, J and Parlett, LE and Seeger, JD and Selvam, N and McMahill-Walraven, CN and Hu, M and Chillarige, Y and Forshee, RA},
title = {Febrile seizure risk following monovalent COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in US children aged 2-5 years.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {75},
number = {},
pages = {128225},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128225},
pmid = {41643233},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Seizures, Febrile/epidemiology/etiology ; Child, Preschool ; Male ; Female ; United States/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Incidence ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; BNT162 Vaccine/adverse effects ; 2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To evaluate febrile seizure risk following monovalent COVID-19 mRNA vaccination among children aged 2-5 years.

METHODS: The primary analysis evaluated children who had a febrile seizure outcome in the 0-1 days following COVID-19 vaccination. A self-controlled case series analysis was performed in three commercial insurance databases to compare the risk of seizure in the risk interval (0-1 days) to a control interval (8-63 days). The exposure of interest was receipt of dose 1 and/or dose 2 of monovalent COVID-19 mRNA vaccinations. The primary outcome was febrile seizure (0-1 day risk interval). A conditional Poisson regression model was used to compare outcome rates in risk and control intervals and estimate incidence rate ratios (IRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Meta-analyses were used to pool results across databases.

RESULTS: The primary meta-analysis found a statistically significant increased incidence of febrile seizure, in the 0-1 days following mRNA-1273 vaccination compared to the control interval (IRR: 2.52, 95% CI: 1.35 to 4.69, risk difference (RD)/100,000 doses = 3.22 (95% CI -0.31 to 6.75)). For the BNT162b2 vaccination, the IRR was elevated but not statistically significant (IRR: 1.41, 95% CI: 0.48 to 4.11, RD/100,000 doses = -0.25 (95% CI -2.75 to 2.24).

CONCLUSIONS: Among children aged 2-5 years, the analysis showed a small elevated incidence rate ratio of febrile seizures in the 0-1 days following the mRNA-1273 vaccination.},
}

Humans
*Seizures, Febrile/epidemiology/etiology
Child, Preschool
Male
Female
United States/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Incidence
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
BNT162 Vaccine/adverse effects
2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage

@article {pmid41644038,
year = {2026},
author = {Ogoti, B and Riitho, V and Wildemann, J and Mutono, N and Mureithi, M and Oyugi, J and Rodon, J and Corman, VM and Drosten, C and Thumbi, SM and Müller, MA},
title = {Epidemiology and genomic features of MERS coronavirus in Africa: a systematic and meta-analysis review.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {165},
number = {},
pages = {108456},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108456},
pmid = {41644038},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; *Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/genetics ; Africa/epidemiology ; Camelus/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/virology/veterinary ; Animals ; Genome, Viral ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; RNA, Viral ; Prevalence ; Phylogeny ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: We explored factors contributing to the low human MERS-CoV prevalence in Africa by assessing MERS-CoV epidemiological and genomic features.

METHODS: We followed the PRISMA guidelines. We searched for articles on epidemiological and virological MERS-CoV characteristics in humans and camels in Africa until August 2025. We used a generalised linear mixed-effects model to calculate pooled proportions. We identified relevant polymorphisms in African MERS-CoV lineages compared with the prototypic EMC/2012 and contemporary Arabian MERS-CoV (clade B5).

RESULTS: We included 53 articles, with 31 used in the meta-analysis. Kenya, Egypt, and Ethiopia contributed to 66.03% of all included studies. Pooled MERS-CoV RNA positivity in African dromedaries was 6.09%, with juveniles (15.29%) having a higher incidence than adults (4.51%). The pooled MERS-CoV seroprevalence was 73.67%, with adults (80.96%) higher than juveniles (36.02%). In human-focused studies, only nine PCR-confirmed MERS cases were reported, six travel-associated and three autochthonous cases, despite a pooled seroprevalence of 2.4%. Genomic analyses identified MERS-CoV clade C-specific polymorphisms in the Spike and accessory genes with putative phenotypic impact.

CONCLUSION: We found the highest MERS-CoV RNA positivity in young dromedaries. Elevated MERS-CoV seroprevalence in mainly asymptomatic camel-exposed humans suggests an underestimation of MERS-CoV infections in Africa. The ongoing MERS-CoV evolution emphasises the need for active genomic surveillance to monitor signatures of human adaptation.},
}

Humans
*Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus/genetics
Africa/epidemiology
Camelus/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/virology/veterinary
Animals
Genome, Viral
Seroepidemiologic Studies
RNA, Viral
Prevalence
Phylogeny

@article {pmid41644304,
year = {2026},
author = {Fung, IC and Liang, H and Pierce, KJ and Kraay, ANM and Kwok, KO and Akhmetzhanov, AR and Baiden, FE and Unwin, HJT and Kengne, FB and Alhassan, F and Chowell, G},
title = {Excess mortality in Mainland China after the end of the Zero COVID policy: A systematic review.},
journal = {Epidemiology and infection},
volume = {154},
number = {},
pages = {e29},
pmid = {41644304},
issn = {1469-4409},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality/prevention & control/epidemiology ; China/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Health Policy ; },
abstract = {After the Zero COVID policy ended on December 7, 2022, ~90% of mainland Chinese were infected in a COVID-19 wave. This systematic review synthesized research estimating excess mortality during that wave in mainland China. We searched seven databases in May 2024 and updated our search in July-August 2025. Peer-reviewed research (Chinese or English), published since January 1, 2023, estimating excess deaths in the COVID-19 wave post-Zero-COVID was included. Risk of bias was assessed using a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Two authors independently conducted abstract screening, full-text review, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment. Seven articles were included. Two studies analysed the death records of a town and a district in Shanghai, estimating the excess mortality rates of 153.6% and 174.3%, respectively. Using indirect methods, four studies estimated national excess mortality (range: 0.71-1.87 million). Another study estimated excess mortality in Taiyuan. Studies used diverse methods to estimate excess deaths, resulting in widely varying and uncertain estimates. Choice of reference period, seasonality, and other factors affect expected mortality estimates.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality/prevention & control/epidemiology
China/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Health Policy

@article {pmid41645272,
year = {2026},
author = {Tamrakar, VK and Sharma, K and Singh, P and Bhargava, A and Negi, SS},
title = {Cervical cancer elimination in India: Repurposing diagnostics, vaccination, and accelerating policy for the 2030 target.},
journal = {Cancer},
volume = {132},
number = {4},
pages = {e70292},
doi = {10.1002/cncr.70292},
pmid = {41645272},
issn = {1097-0142},
support = {IIRP-2023-3960/F1.//Indian Council of Medical Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology ; India/epidemiology ; Female ; *Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology ; *Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Vaccination ; Early Detection of Cancer/methods ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Health Policy ; Disease Eradication ; },
abstract = {Cervical cancer remains one of the most significant yet preventable causes of cancer-related mortality among women in India. Current estimates indicate that the country reports approximately 127,000 new cases and nearly 80,000 deaths annually, accounting for about one fifth of the global burden. Despite advances in vaccination, screening, and molecular diagnostics, coverage remains critically low: fewer than 2% of women undergo screening, and less than 1% have received a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. The introduction of the indigenous quadrivalent vaccine Cervavac in 2023 has provided renewed momentum; however, limitations in infrastructure, public awareness, and stratic barrier to implementation continue to hinder progress toward achieving the World Health Organization's 2030 elimination targets. This opinion article highlights the epidemiological landscape, diagnostic and programmatic barriers, and emphasis to repurpose India's vast coronavirus disease-era reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction network for HPV molecular testing. Integrating HPV vaccination into the Universal Immunization Program and incorporating the HPV Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) into the National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL) are critical steps for accelerating India's pathway to cervical cancer elimination by 2030.},
}

Humans
*Uterine Cervical Neoplasms/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology
India/epidemiology
Female
*Papillomavirus Infections/prevention & control/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology
*Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage
Vaccination
Early Detection of Cancer/methods
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Health Policy
Disease Eradication

@article {pmid41645649,
year = {2026},
author = {Loubet, P and Fourati, S},
title = {An evaluation of sipavibart for pre-exposure prophylaxis of COVID-19 in immunocompromised individuals.},
journal = {Expert review of anti-infective therapy},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {89-96},
doi = {10.1080/14787210.2026.2624614},
pmid = {41645649},
issn = {1744-8336},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/virology ; *Immunocompromised Host ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration & dosage/adverse effects/pharmacology ; *Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage/adverse effects/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected immunocompromised individuals, who remain at risk for severe disease despite widespread vaccination efforts. Poor vaccine-induced humoral responses in this population necessitate additional preventive strategies. Sipavibart (AZD3152) is a next-generation long-acting monoclonal antibody designed to target the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and provide broad-spectrum neutralization against divergent variants.

AREAS COVERED: This review evaluates sipavibart's preclinical pharmacology, pivotal and supportive clinical trial data, and early real-world evidence, including the SUPERNOVA Phase 3 trial and national early-access programs. We discuss its safety profile, variant-specific activity, and resistance challenges.

EXPERT OPINION: Sipavibart was the first monoclonal antibody to show efficacy and safety in preventing symptomatic COVID-19 among immunocompromised individuals, protecting for up to six months. However, the widespread circulation of variants harboring S:F456L currently limits its clinical utility, and use should be restricted. Maintaining access to Sipavibart remains justified, as future antigenic shifts could restore its activity. Its deployment should rely on genomic surveillance and local epidemiology. At the same time, next-generation mAbs should prioritize conserved spike regions and multi-epitope cocktails to counter viral evolution and prolong therapeutic value.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/virology
*Immunocompromised Host
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis/methods
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology
*Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration & dosage/adverse effects/pharmacology
*Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/administration & dosage/adverse effects/pharmacology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology/administration & dosage

@article {pmid41646510,
year = {2026},
author = {Melo-Oliveira, MES and Lourenço, RA and Louzada, EB and Moutinho, M and Barbosa, AF and Moreira, VG and Porto, LC},
title = {Systematic Review of Dyspnea and Chronic Fatigue in Patients With Long COVID: Clinical Characteristics and Associated Laboratory Parameters.},
journal = {Pulmonary medicine},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {5426125},
pmid = {41646510},
issn = {2090-1844},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dyspnea/etiology/physiopathology/virology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; Quality of Life ; *Fatigue/etiology/physiopathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/etiology ; },
abstract = {ABSTRACT: Dyspnea and chronic fatigue stand out as prevalent manifestations in the postacute phase of COVID, resulting in substantial adverse effects on patients' quality of life and functional capacity. Although these symptoms have been widely documented, there is no clear consensus on the pathophysiological mechanisms that underlie them. The available literature reveals a dispersion of clinical and laboratory data, and the variability in the methods of assessment of fatigue and dyspnea, as well as in the laboratory variables examined, limits the standardized understanding of this complex condition.

OBJECTIVE: This study was aimed at identifying and synthesizing the evidence on the main clinical and laboratory characteristics related to dyspnea and fatigue in patients during long COVID from 2021 onwards.

METHODS: The main databases used to select the studies were PubMed and Medline, also using LitCovid and Embase.

RESULTS: A total of 42 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included, covering a total population of 30,682 patients diagnosed with COVID-19. The findings underscore the significant impact of long COVID on patients' quality of life, with persistent symptoms such as fatigue and dyspnea affecting a considerable proportion of individuals for durations ranging from 1 to 24 months.

CONCLUSION: The heterogeneity in research approaches highlights the urgent need for collaborative initiatives to elucidate the determinants of long COVID symptomatology and create more consistent evaluation protocols.},
}

Humans
*Dyspnea/etiology/physiopathology/virology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
Quality of Life
*Fatigue/etiology/physiopathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/etiology

@article {pmid41646984,
year = {2025},
author = {Müller, L and Gebicka, P and Handtke, S and Schönborn, L and Thiele, T},
title = {Advances in our understanding of anti-PF4 related immunothrombosis.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1724207},
pmid = {41646984},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Platelet Factor 4/immunology ; *Thrombosis/immunology ; *Autoantibodies/immunology/blood ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic/immunology ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology ; Blood Platelets/immunology ; Receptors, IgG/immunology ; *Thrombocytopenia/immunology ; Platelet Activation/immunology ; Animals ; Heparin/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {This article focuses on the central role of antibodies against platelet factor 4 (PF4) in mediating immunothrombosis, from classical heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) to vaccine-induced immune thrombocytopenia and thrombosis (VITT). The latter condition gained international attention during the rollout of vaccines against SARS-CoV-2. Since then, an increased awareness for anti-PF4 mediated disorders arose and patients were recognized with anti-PF4 disorders occurring without prior heparin or adenoviral vector vaccine exposure. These disorders include various acute and chronic VITT-like conditions, i.e. post-viral VITT, diaplacentally transmitted anti-PF4 antibodies in neonatal stroke, monoclonal gammopathies of thrombotic significance (MGTS) and chronic autoimmune VITT of unknown origin. All anti-PF4 related disorders share key serological and immunopathological features with VITT, such as the formation of immune complexes and platelet activation via the Fcγ receptor IIA (FcγRIIA). Via their activation, platelets form procoagulant, aggregatory and secretory phenotypes shaping their interplay with neutrophils, monocytes, and coagulation factors to amplify thrombotic responses. Integrating recent mechanistic insights, clinical observations and diagnostic developments, this review proposes an updated conceptual framework for anti PF4-related immunothrombosis. We aim to raise awareness among clinicians and researchers, to promote early diagnosis and encourage further translational research towards improved therapeutic strategies in this clinically significant area.},
}

Humans
*Platelet Factor 4/immunology
*Thrombosis/immunology
*Autoantibodies/immunology/blood
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology
*Purpura, Thrombocytopenic, Idiopathic/immunology
COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology
Blood Platelets/immunology
Receptors, IgG/immunology
*Thrombocytopenia/immunology
Platelet Activation/immunology
Animals
Heparin/adverse effects

@article {pmid41647062,
year = {2025},
author = {Ghorbani Shirkouhi, S and Khatami, SS and Niroomand, Z and Sadigh-Eteghad, S and Yousefzadeh-Chabok, S and Andalib, S},
title = {Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Neurological and Neuropsychological Manifestations of COVID-19.},
journal = {Innovations in clinical neuroscience},
volume = {22},
number = {10-12},
pages = {14-23},
pmid = {41647062},
issn = {2158-8333},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is associated with a wide range of neurological symptoms and neuropsychiatric conditions. SARS-CoV-2 shows various degrees of neurotropism. SARS-CoV-2 primarily targets respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts; however, it can affect other organs. Neurological and neuropsychological manifestations of COVID-19 have been reported. Several mechanisms are involved in these manifestations in COVID-19. Therefore, the present narrative review will take account of mechanisms underlying the neurological and neuropsychological manifestations in COVID-19.

METHODS: A literature search for relevant articles in different databases was made with a focus on recent publications for this narrative review.

RESULTS: Inflammation and thrombosis have been suggested to be mechanisms contributing to these manifestations. Also, renin-angiotensin system (RAS), transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), cathepsin B and L, furin, neuropilin-1 (NRP1), and sterile alpha motif and HD domain-containing protein 1 (SAMHD1) have been proposed to be involved in pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, cluster of differentiation 147 (CD147) and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) have been suggested to have a role in SARS-CoV-2 entry into the central nervous system (CNS).

CONCLUSION: Further investigation on the underlying mechanisms leading to SARS-CoV-2-associated neurological and neuropsychological manifestations is pivotal. Insights into these mechanisms will help the treatment strategies for patients with COVID-19 and such manifestations.},
}

@article {pmid41648868,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, T and Wang, L and Yan, C},
title = {Local and systemic host responses to influenza and concurrent or sequential SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {1725731},
pmid = {41648868},
issn = {2235-2988},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/pathology/complications ; *Influenza, Human/immunology/complications/pathology/virology ; *Coinfection/immunology/virology/pathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Lung/pathology/virology/immunology ; Inflammation ; },
abstract = {Influenza is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus, which has been circulating in humans for over a century. In contrast, COVID-19, caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2, emerged recently in December 2019. Following nearly four years of pandemic, the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 has transitioned towards an endemic state, suggesting a trend of long-term coexistence with humans. Concurrent or sequential coinfection with influenza and SARS-CoV-2 has been clinically observed to exacerbate pulmonary pathology and systemic inflammation in affected individuals. This review discusses the impact and elucidates the potential underlying mechanisms by which influenza and SARS-CoV-2 coinfection aggravates local lung injury and systemic host responses, aiming to inform improved prevention and clinical management strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/pathology/complications
*Influenza, Human/immunology/complications/pathology/virology
*Coinfection/immunology/virology/pathology
SARS-CoV-2
Lung/pathology/virology/immunology
Inflammation

@article {pmid41648943,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, F and Liu, Y and Zhao, Z and Shang, X and Wang, Y and Lai, M and He, M and Chen, Y},
title = {Clinical manifestations, prevalence, and risk factors of asthenopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of global health},
volume = {16},
number = {},
pages = {04053},
pmid = {41648943},
issn = {2047-2986},
mesh = {Humans ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; *Asthenopia/epidemiology/etiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This meta-analysis aims to determine the clinical manifestations, prevalence, and risk factors of asthenopia across diverse populations.

METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed up to April 2024 for studies published within the last five years on asthenopia, without language or design restrictions. Reference lists were also reviewed. The study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to calculate proportions, prevalence rates, odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS: Overall, 63 studies were included. The pooled prevalence of asthenopia detected via questionnaires or symptom report was 51% (95% CI = 50%, 52%). Subgroup analyses showed high prevalence among digital device users (90%) and computer workers (77%). During the COVID-19 pandemic, prevalence rose among adults (39%-45%), university students (36%-57%), and school-aged children (45%-64%). The most frequent ocular symptoms were eye tiredness (65%, 95% CI = 46%, 84%), eye strain (47%, 95% CI = 37%, 58%), and burning/irritation (43%, 95% CI = 35%, 51%). Musculoskeletal symptoms, including neck pain (45%, 95% CI = 28%, 62%) and shoulder pain (30%, 95% CI = 12%, 48%) were also prevalent. Neuropsychological symptoms included headache (50%, 95% CI = 41%, 59%) and difficulty concentrating (44%, 95% CI = 32%, 56%). Risk factors included short sleep duration (OR = 1.28; 95% CI = 1.04, 1.57), prior eye disease (OR = 2.59; 95% CI = 1.43, 4.69), prolonged screen time (OR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.09, 1.21), and ambient conditions like air conditioning use (OR = 23.02; 95% CI = 4.94, 107.18). Protective measures included anti-glare filters (OR = 0.34; 95% CI = 0.19, 0.64), regular breaks (OR = 0.21; 95% CI = 0.09, 0.51), and computer use knowledge (OR = 0.20; 95% CI = 0.13, 0.30).

CONCLUSIONS: Asthenopia is prevalent across diverse populations, characterised by a wide range of symptoms and influenced by modifiable risk factors. Our findings support a unified definition to improve clinical recognition and offer preliminary evidence to help shape future research on preventive strategies.

REGISTRATION: PROSPERO: CRD42024536841.},
}

Humans
Risk Factors
Prevalence
*Asthenopia/epidemiology/etiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Adult

@article {pmid41650498,
year = {2026},
author = {Keenan Chong, WH and Dan Ong, WJ and Khan, FA and Sajeed, S and Souza, JD and Kansal, MG and Kansal, A},
title = {Clinical benefits of prolonged versus standard prone positioning in mechanically ventilated COVID-19 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial-sequential analysis.},
journal = {Australian critical care : official journal of the Confederation of Australian Critical Care Nurses},
volume = {39},
number = {2},
pages = {101531},
doi = {10.1016/j.aucc.2026.101531},
pmid = {41650498},
issn = {1036-7314},
mesh = {Humans ; Prone Position ; *COVID-19/therapy/mortality ; *Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/mortality ; *Respiration, Artificial/methods ; *Patient Positioning/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Time Factors ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: The optimal duration of prone positioning for improving outcomes in acute respiratory distress syndrome remains uncertain. This meta-analysis compared clinical outcomes of prolonged versus standard prone positioning in adult coronavirus disease 2019 patients with moderate-to-severe acute respiratory distress syndrome.

METHODS: PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies. Prolonged prone positioning was defined as a mean duration >24 h per session and standard as ≤ 24 h. Outcomes included mortality, pressure injuries, oxygenation, and respiratory parameters. A trial sequential analysis was conducted for mortality and pressure injuries.

RESULTS: Seven studies (six observational and one RCT) involving 996 patients (592 prolonged and 404 standard) were included in the study. Prolonged prone positioning showed a nonsignificant trend towards lower mortality (33.8% vs. 39.8%, RR: 0.81, 95% confidence interval: 0.60-1.09; P = 0.16) and a borderline increase in pressure injuries (30.2% vs. 26.2%; relative risk (RR) 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.00-1.62; P = 0.05). The trial sequential analysis indicated that current evidence is insufficient to confirm benefit or harm. No significant differences were observed in intensive care unit length of stay (mean difference [MD]: 2.74 days; P = 0.13) or changes in positive end-expiratory pressure or driving pressure in both groups. Oxygenation improved significantly during (partial pressure of arterial oxygen-to-fraction of inspired oxygen ratio MD: 17.42 mmHg; P = 0.003) and after prone positioning (partial pressure of arterial oxygen-to-fraction of inspired oxygen ratio MD: 23.83 mmHg; P = 0.008).

CONCLUSION: Prolonged prone positioning was associated with trends towards lower mortality and higher frequency of pressure injury risk, but evidence remains inconclusive. While oxygenation improved, clinical outcomes of intensive care unit length of stay and respiratory parameters were unchanged. Additional high-quality RCTs are needed to clarify the balance of benefits and risks and guide future recommendations.},
}

Humans
Prone Position
*COVID-19/therapy/mortality
*Respiratory Distress Syndrome/therapy/mortality
*Respiration, Artificial/methods
*Patient Positioning/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Time Factors

@article {pmid41650532,
year = {2026},
author = {Labied, S and Atifi, F and Wahnou, H and Mabrouk, M and Jeddoub, O and Allaoui, A and Jalali, F and Zaid, Y},
title = {Megakaryocytes and afucosylated IgG in post-acute COVID-19: Bridging immune dysregulation and vascular pathology - A narrative review.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {196},
number = {},
pages = {119049},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2026.119049},
pmid = {41650532},
issn = {1950-6007},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/pathology/complications ; *Immunoglobulin G/immunology/metabolism ; *Megakaryocytes/immunology/pathology/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Glycosylation ; Glycoproteins ; },
abstract = {Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), also referred to as long COVID, encompasses a constellation of persistent symptoms lasting for at least three months after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and not explained by alternative diagnoses. The multifactorial pathophysiology underlying PASC remains incompletely understood, limiting the development of effective management strategies. Increasing evidence suggests that both immune dysregulation and hemostatic imbalance play central roles in post-COVID-19 complications. Megakaryocytes, key regulators of platelet production and coagulation, have emerged as potential contributors to sustained thrombo-inflammatory processes following SARS-CoV-2 infection. In parallel, afucosylated IgG antibodies have been strongly implicated in exaggerated immune activation and hyperinflammatory responses during acute COVID-19. The persistence of such antibody glycosylation patterns beyond the acute phase raises the possibility that they may also contribute to chronic immune and vascular alterations observed in PASC. This narrative review explores the potential interplay between megakaryocyte dysfunction and afucosylated IgG antibodies in the pathogenesis of PASC. By examining mechanisms identified during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, we discuss how prolonged immune-hemostatic crosstalk may promote persistent inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and microvascular abnormalities. Understanding these interconnected pathways may provide mechanistic insight into the heterogeneity of PASC manifestations and help identify novel therapeutic targets for long-term post-COVID-19 sequelae.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/pathology/complications
*Immunoglobulin G/immunology/metabolism
*Megakaryocytes/immunology/pathology/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Glycosylation
Glycoproteins

@article {pmid41651428,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Zhao, F and Zhao, Q and Du, S and Wen, Y and Wu, R and Cao, S and Cong, F and Huang, X},
title = {Cell entry mechanisms of porcine enteric coronaviruses.},
journal = {The Journal of biological chemistry},
volume = {302},
number = {3},
pages = {111250},
pmid = {41651428},
issn = {1083-351X},
mesh = {Animals ; Swine ; *Virus Internalization ; *Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/physiology ; *Transmissible gastroenteritis virus/physiology ; Humans ; *Deltacoronavirus/physiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/metabolism ; *Swine Diseases/virology/metabolism ; Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; Alphacoronavirus ; *Coronavirus/physiology ; Gastroenteritis, Transmissible, of Swine/virology ; },
abstract = {Porcine enteric coronaviruses, including transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), and porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), cause severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and high mortality in piglets, leading to enormous economic losses in the swine industry worldwide. They have the capability to infect a variety of cell lines from pigs, humans, and other animals, with high risks of interspecies transmission and potential threats to public health. These viruses employ their spike glycoproteins to engage with various receptors, coreceptors, cofactors, and other host factors that further mediate membrane fusion to accomplish the entry process. This review summarizes the recent findings regarding the pathways, receptors, coreceptors, cofactors, and other host factors utilized by TGEV, PEDV, SADS-CoV, and PDCoV for cellular entry. Several important targets for antiviral therapeutics and some key aspects of the entry process for these viruses that await discovery are highlighted. A comprehensive understanding of the entry mechanisms of porcine enteric coronaviruses will provide new insight into the development of novel antiviral therapeutic strategies.},
}

Animals
Swine
*Virus Internalization
*Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus/physiology
*Transmissible gastroenteritis virus/physiology
Humans
*Deltacoronavirus/physiology
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/metabolism
*Swine Diseases/virology/metabolism
Receptors, Virus/metabolism
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
Alphacoronavirus
*Coronavirus/physiology
Gastroenteritis, Transmissible, of Swine/virology

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41653012,
year = {2026},
author = {Asis, A and Rodríguez, A and Reyes, LF and Díaz, E and Nseir, S and Martín-Loeches, I},
title = {The double threat: bacterial and fungal co-/superinfection in viral pneumonia.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-12},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2026.2629003},
pmid = {41653012},
issn = {1747-6356},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Respiratory viral pneumonias are a leading cause of severe respiratory failure and intensive care unit (ICU) admission worldwide. Although viral infection itself drives significant morbidity and mortality, secondary bacterial and fungal superinfections represent a critical 'double threat' in critically ill adults, exacerbating lung injury, prolonging organ dysfunction, and complicating antimicrobial management. Experience from the Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 and SARS-CoV-2 pandemics highlights a persistent mismatch between low documented bacterial co-infection rates and widespread empiric antibiotic exposure, underscoring diagnostic uncertainty and antimicrobial stewardship challenges in the ICU.

AREAS COVERED: This review examines the epidemiology, immunopathogenesis, and diagnostic approaches to bacterial and fungal superinfection in adult ICU patients with severe viral pneumonia. Evidence is synthesized from large ICU cohorts, pandemic data, and established consensus definitions for influenza- and COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (IAPA, CAPA). The review discusses advances in molecular diagnostics, lower respiratory tract sampling, bronchoalveolar lavage - based mycology, and biomarker-guided strategies, with a focused literature search of ICU-specific studies.

EXPERT OPINION: Bacterial and fungal superinfections, while infrequent, carry substantial clinical impact in severe viral pneumonia. A multimodal, ICU-adapted diagnostic strategy integrating pathogen detection with host-response assessment is essential to support timely therapy, enable antimicrobial de-escalation, and align superinfection management with stewardship principles.},
}

@article {pmid41653115,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, Q and Mai, Z and Wang, B and Sun, N and Zhu, W and Wang, J and Ge, J and Gao, M},
title = {Trained Immunity Empowers Vaccine Design and Application.},
journal = {ACS infectious diseases},
volume = {12},
number = {3},
pages = {913-936},
doi = {10.1021/acsinfecdis.5c00840},
pmid = {41653115},
issn = {2373-8227},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Adjuvants, Immunologic ; Animals ; Cross Protection ; Trained Immunity ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the limitations of traditional vaccine development models: these approaches rely excessively on pathogen-specific antigen design, feature lengthy development cycles, and struggle to address threats from rapidly mutating pathogens and emerging pathogens. Even before the pandemic, certain traditional vaccines (such as BCG) demonstrated "cross-protection" effects beyond their target diseases. The trained immunity (TRIM) theory offers a promising path to develop broad-spectrum, effective, and durable vaccines. This review summarizes core advances in TRIM within vaccinology, systematically outlining vaccine design strategies based on this concept for the first time. These strategies encompass vaccine-mediated cross-protection, methods to enhance vaccine potency and persistence, pathways to achieve broad-spectrum effects, and regulatory characteristics involving immune recognition, antigen delivery, safety, and tolerability. This study explores the synergistic effects and application prospects of TRIM adjuvants such as β-glucan and Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. The impact of transgenerational immune effects on offspring immune function provides a crucial direction for future research. It also highlights current limitations in studies regarding persistence, individual variability, and risks of excessive inflammation. Existing vaccines capable of inducing TRIM will inspire next-generation vaccine development. Innovative applications of this vaccine category can propel the advancement of trained immunity-based vaccines (TIbVs). This review proposes an innovative approach─the "Vaccine Immunity Foundation Hypothesis." This lays the groundwork for designing next-generation vaccines and advancing the clinical translation of TRIM therapies, establishing a theoretical foundation for developing broad-spectrum, highly effective, durable, and safe immune protection strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Vaccine Development/methods
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Adjuvants, Immunologic
Animals
Cross Protection
Trained Immunity

@article {pmid41653615,
year = {2026},
author = {Honchar, O and Мykhailenko, O and Holovchenko, O and Georgiyants, V},
title = {Pelargonium sidoides - from ethnopharmacology to evidence-based medicine: a systematic review.},
journal = {Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology},
volume = {153},
number = {},
pages = {157880},
doi = {10.1016/j.phymed.2026.157880},
pmid = {41653615},
issn = {1618-095X},
mesh = {*Pelargonium/chemistry ; Humans ; *Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Ethnopharmacology ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; Phytotherapy ; Phytochemicals/pharmacology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Ethnobotany ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pelargonium sidoides DC. (Geraniaceae) has a long history of traditional use among indigenous peoples of Southern Africa for treating respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. Its transformation into the modern pharmaceutical product Umckaloabo (EPs® 7630) exemplifies the transition from traditional medicine to evidence-based therapeutics.

PURPOSE: To provide a systematic analysis of P. sidoides, spanning from its botanical characteristics and ethnobotanical roots to its development as a regulated phytomedicine. The review focuses on the plant's unique phytochemical profile and provides a detailed synthesis of its molecular and systems-biological mechanisms of action, cultivation sustainability, and clinical efficacy in managing respiratory tract infections.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library up to December 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Sources included scientific articles, pharmacopoeias, patents, and ethnobotanical records in English and Ukrainian.

RESULTS: The systematic synthesis of identified records characterizes the chemical diversity of P. sidoides, focusing on specialized metabolites such as highly substituted benzopyranones, prodelphinidins, and unique coumarin sulfates. The review discusses modern cultivation practices, sustainability issues, and comparative extraction techniques, while analytical methods such as HPLC, LC-MS, and TLC for standardization are summarized. The pharmacological profile is defined by multi-target activity, encompassing immunomodulatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects, including studies on SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory pathogens. Analysis of available clinical data validates the therapeutic use of P. sidoides root preparations for managing acute bronchitis, rhinosinusitis, and tonsillopharyngitis.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that the integration of P. sidoides into modern healthcare is supported by the synergy between traditional knowledge and molecular and clinical validation. By mapping the developmental trajectory - from wild harvesting to systems-biological evidence - this review identifies P. sidoides as a model for the pharmaceutical translation of ethnobotanical resources into standardized, evidence-based phytomedicines.},
}

*Pelargonium/chemistry
Humans
*Plant Extracts/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Ethnopharmacology
Evidence-Based Medicine
Phytotherapy
Phytochemicals/pharmacology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Ethnobotany

@article {pmid41654195,
year = {2026},
author = {Shan, Z and Li, J and Ye, Z and Chen, Y and Chen, J and Chen, Y and Wang, X and Gao, C and Jiang, S and Zhang, N},
title = {Advances in human respiratory organoid models for studying the pathogenesis and intervention strategies of COVID-19.},
journal = {Virologica Sinica},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {23-34},
pmid = {41654195},
issn = {1995-820X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Organoids/virology/pathology ; *COVID-19/pathology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity/physiology ; *Respiratory System/virology/pathology ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), affects multiple organ systems, with the respiratory system being the primary target. Respiratory organoids, which closely mimic the structure and function of the human respiratory tract, have emerged as essential tools for studying SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review summarizes current methods for generating various respiratory organoids, including nasal, tonsil, airway, bronchial, and alveolar organoids, and highlights their application in investigating the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 infection and evaluating potential therapeutic agents. Meanwhile, this review also introduces respiratory organoid-on-a-chip technology, which can precisely regulate culture conditions and incorporate vascularization and immune cells to enhance physiological complexity, thereby providing crucial support for investigating SARS-CoV-2-induced lung injury, immune responses, and conducting high-throughput drug screening. The aim of this review is to provide valuable insights for further research into the pathogenesis and intervention strategies of COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*Organoids/virology/pathology
*COVID-19/pathology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity/physiology
*Respiratory System/virology/pathology
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid41655454,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, K and Xu, Q and Li, J and Wu, G and Wu, H and Tie, X and Xu, J and Li, J and Zhang, Y},
title = {Cytokine storm divergence in viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.},
journal = {Cytokine & growth factor reviews},
volume = {88},
number = {},
pages = {108-123},
doi = {10.1016/j.cytogfr.2026.01.008},
pmid = {41655454},
issn = {1879-0305},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology/virology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/immunology/virology/complications ; *Cytokines/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Virus Diseases/immunology ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology ; },
abstract = {Cytokine storm (CS) is a pathological state of dysregulated, hyperactive host immunity that arises in the context of infection, malignancy, or immunotherapy. CS is characterized by the sustained, markedly elevated release of multiple pro-inflammatory mediators, ultimately leading to tissue damage and multi-organ dysfunction. Upper respiratory viral infections, including SARS, MERS, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are among the most prominent CS triggers. Inflammatory storms triggered by different pathogens exhibit distinct variations in their cytokine profiles and downstream immune signaling pathways. Underlying comorbidities-such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease-together with complications such as coagulopathies and secondary infections, can profoundly alter both the threshold and the magnitude of the cytokine storm. This review systematically compares cytokine profiles elicited by distinct upper respiratory pathogens, with population stratification by age and underlying comorbidities, to clarify how these patterns relate to disease severity and complication risk. Collectively, the available evidence supports a shared inflammatory backbone across respiratory virus-induced cytokine storms, overlaid by pathogen-specific cytokine fingerprints and host-dependent plasticity that shapes clinical trajectories and outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology/virology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/immunology/virology/complications
*Cytokines/immunology
COVID-19/immunology
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Virus Diseases/immunology
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology

@article {pmid41656017,
year = {2026},
author = {Temte, JL},
title = {Primary Care Clinics and Surveillance of Infectious Diseases.},
journal = {Primary care},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {17-29},
doi = {10.1016/j.pop.2025.09.003},
pmid = {41656017},
issn = {1558-299X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Primary Health Care/organization & administration ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; Influenza, Human/epidemiology ; *Public Health Surveillance/methods ; *Ambulatory Care Facilities/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {Public health surveillance for infectious diseases is highly compatible with the practice of primary care medicine and is enhanced by contextual and population-based elements when grounded in primary care. Moreover, there have been long and successful partnerships between primary care and public health for influenza monitoring. Surveillance programs can be based on sentinel, laboratory, or mechanistic approaches and need to reflect the needs of clinicians and the realities of the primary care environment. Participation in, and access to, surveillance information improves patient care through situational awareness, improving diagnostic acuity, and improving antimicrobial stewardship.},
}

Humans
*Primary Health Care/organization & administration
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
Influenza, Human/epidemiology
*Public Health Surveillance/methods
*Ambulatory Care Facilities/organization & administration

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

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

@article {pmid41656612,
year = {2026},
author = {Gauffin, K},
title = {Who is worthy of protection? Revisiting a theoretical model on the social origins of health inequities during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Scandinavian journal of public health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {14034948261415806},
doi = {10.1177/14034948261415806},
pmid = {41656612},
issn = {1651-1905},
abstract = {AIMS: This article examines how the Diderichsen model has been used and adapted in research on health inequalities during COVID-19, and explores how the pandemic has prompted further theoretical development. This review therefore addresses the question of how a well-established theoretical framework has helped researchers understand pandemic-related health inequalities and what opportunities exist for its continued refinement.

METHODS: A narrative literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus. Included studies cited a key publication presenting the Diderichsen model and addressed COVID-19 as a central topic. After screening 298 articles, 24 were included for full analysis. The studies were categorised by how they engaged with the model - conceptually, empirically or through further development.

RESULTS: The Diderichsen model was commonly used to frame discussions of health inequality or to interpret pandemic-related disparities in exposure, vulnerability and outcomes. Several studies emphasised occupational and housing-related exposure, class-based comorbidities and the unequal social consequences of COVID-19. A smaller number of studies proposed expanded frameworks, incorporating multilevel and temporal dimensions and introducing new mechanisms related to pandemic responses. These adaptations often focused on migrants, ethnic minorities and other particularly affected groups.

CONCLUSIONS: The review confirms the ongoing relevance of the Diderichsen model in pandemic health inequality research. It argues that the model can be further strengthened by explicitly incorporating concepts of political decision-making, symbolic recognition and social justice. This would improve its capacity to capture the full complexity of health inequalities in times of crisis.},
}

@article {pmid41656850,
year = {2026},
author = {Hatchett, RJ},
title = {Best Practices in Preparing for the Worst Case.},
journal = {Disaster medicine and public health preparedness},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {e34},
doi = {10.1017/dmp.2025.10201},
pmid = {41656850},
issn = {1938-744X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Disaster Planning/methods/standards/trends ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Civil Defense/methods/standards/trends ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {The convergence of nuclear and radiological preparedness with epidemic and pandemic response, reveals valuable opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning and capability development. Insights from the extensive career of Dr. C. Norman Coleman illustrate how methodologies from radiation medical countermeasures can inform strategies for managing emerging infectious diseases. While nuclear incidents are infrequent, infectious disease outbreaks occur regularly, underscoring the need for sustained, adaptable capabilities to detect and respond to such threats. To draw on some examples, case studies on the development and deployment of vaccines against filoviruses highlight measurable advances in response speed and efficacy, while persistent challenges related to equitable access to medical countermeasures during public health emergencies can be addressed drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. Iterative improvement, strategic planning and performance optimization is very important, as is, the value of understanding the structure of a problem to find its solution.},
}

Humans
*Disaster Planning/methods/standards/trends
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Civil Defense/methods/standards/trends
Pandemics/prevention & control

@article {pmid41656855,
year = {2026},
author = {Lazarus, R and Williams, V and Cochrane, H and Rees, S and Seale, H},
title = {Attitudes to vaccine co-administration in adults: A scoping review of qualitative evidence.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2616140},
pmid = {41656855},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; Adult ; *Vaccination/psychology/methods ; *Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; Qualitative Research ; },
abstract = {Providing multiple vaccinations to adults at a single appointment, known as co-administration, could help increase vaccine coverage by making the process more convenient for the public. Despite vaccine co-administration policies, there are many missed opportunities to offer multiple vaccines. A qualitative understanding of the public attitude to co-administration may allow the development of interventions to increase implementation of co-administration policies. We undertook a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework to collate the available qualitative literature to identify barriers, and facilitators to vaccine co-administration as well as potential research gaps. We created and used an iterative search strategy to retrieve articles published between 1/10/2010 and 11/12/2024 in three scientific databases. None of the articles retrieved fulfilled the inclusion criteria. There were nine articlesthat used quantitative surveys to measure attitudes, barriers and facilitators. Qualitative studies to understand barriers and facilitators to vaccine co-administration are needed to inform future policy implementation.},
}

Humans
Adult
*Vaccination/psychology/methods
*Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Qualitative Research

@article {pmid41656902,
year = {2026},
author = {Biswas, R and Roy, A and Kayal, T and Basu, S and Ghosh, S and Ramaiah, S and Anbarasu, A},
title = {Waning immunity and the future of booster vaccination strategies in global vaccine programs post COVID-19.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2626088},
pmid = {41656902},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Immunization, Secondary/methods/trends ; *Immunization Programs ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Global Health ; Vaccine Efficacy ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {The problem of waning immunity is a major global concern of vaccine programs, with immunity against diseases such as COVID-19 (reduction in efficacy by ~25% in six months), pertussis (waning in 4-12 y), and influenza (annual updates needed) expected to decrease with time. While boosters reduce serious results in high-risk categories, these effects are short-term (4-6 months) and encourage global imbalances, where low-income areas lag in primary vaccination (<2%). Computational models have shown that primary vaccination in underserved regions prevents ~60% of hospitalizations worldwide, surpassing booster-focused measures (~47%). To maintain protection, variant-responsive boosters, rapid booster-design pipelines, universal vaccine platforms (including pan-coronavirus vaccines), and equity-based solutions (decentralized production) need to be integrated. Aligning with frameworks like the Immunization Agenda 2030 of the World Health Organization, plans should balance the expansion of high-risk groups while broadening primary access, providing infrastructure investment, and real-time surveillance to address evolving pathogens and systemic disparities.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*Immunization, Secondary/methods/trends
*Immunization Programs
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Global Health
Vaccine Efficacy
Vaccination

@article {pmid41657321,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Z and Ong, YH and Yang, B and Fan, B and Yang, YY and Ni, Q},
title = {Chemical engineering strategies to enhance mRNA-LNP stability for therapeutic applications.},
journal = {Biomaterials science},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {1370-1392},
doi = {10.1039/d5bm01635e},
pmid = {41657321},
issn = {2047-4849},
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA Stability ; *RNA, Messenger/chemistry/genetics ; *Chemical Engineering/methods ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; RNA, Circular/chemistry ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {The inception of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 has catalyzed a transformative shift in the field of vaccination, offering expeditious, scalable, and potent countermeasures to a global health emergency. Despite significant advances, mRNA remains inherently unstable under physiological conditions due to its susceptibility to degradation by ubiquitous ribonucleases and physicochemical factors, making its storage, transport and clinical application challenging. This review explores the critical determinants influencing mRNA stability and discusses how chemical engineering strategies are suited to enhance mRNA stability, including 5' cap modification, poly(A) tail engineering, optimization of untranslated regions, as well as coding sequence refinements, reversible 2'-OH acylation, the development of circular RNA constructs and self-amplifying RNA systems. We also discuss efforts towards mRNA immunogenicity regulation and advanced mRNA delivery systems, along with progress in storage and transport solutions, which have further contributed to addressing stability concerns. Finally, we discuss the remaining challenges in clinical translation and provide forward-looking perspectives on emerging mRNA-based technologies.},
}

Humans
*RNA Stability
*RNA, Messenger/chemistry/genetics
*Chemical Engineering/methods
SARS-CoV-2/genetics/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control
RNA, Circular/chemistry
*COVID-19 Vaccines/chemistry/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid41657453,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, T and Hu, Y and Bao, Y},
title = {Psychological impact and intervention strategies for unaccompanied patients in pediatric intensive care units: a narrative review.},
journal = {Translational pediatrics},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {20},
pmid = {41657453},
issn = {2224-4344},
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is a high-stress medical environment. Family-Centered Care (FCC), which ensures parental presence and participation, is recognized as the standard of practice to mitigate psychological distress and trauma in critically ill children. However, infection control mandates [most notably during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic] and resource limitations often necessitate restrictive visitation policies, leaving children in an "unaccompanied" state. This separation from parents constitutes a significant deviation from the standard care model and poses a unique psychological risk. A systematic synthesis of the specific psychological impacts of this parental absence and adaptive strategies to effectively intervene within this context remains underdeveloped. This narrative review aims to analyze the primary psychological consequences of parental absence for children in the PICU and to explore the intervention strategies adapted to mitigate these effects.

METHODS: We reviewed journal articles from the past 15 years (2010-2024) that analyze and discuss the psychological impact and intervention strategies of unaccompanied patients in pediatric intensive care units.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: Our analysis indicates that an unaccompanied state is a significant, independent risk factor for psychological morbidity in PICU patients, markedly exacerbating separation anxiety, fear, loneliness, and depressive symptoms, which may also impede physiological recovery. Effective interventions must focus on mitigating the trauma of separation. The core strategy identified is "Virtual Family-Centered Care" (e.g., re-establishing family connection and participation in rounds via video technology). Other critical interventions include alternative socio-emotional support from the healthcare team (especially Child Life Specialists), professional psychological therapies, and environmental optimization to reduce threat perception.

CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that while parental presence is irreplaceable, PICUs must adopt innovative interventions, particularly technology-assisted virtual connections, to protect the psychological well-being of unaccompanied children whenever visitation is necessarily restricted.},
}

@article {pmid41657702,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, S and Zhou, T and Wang, M and Xiang, W and Wu, J},
title = {Global landscape of mRNA vaccine clinical trials: a systematic analysis of ClinicalTrials.gov data.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1738942},
pmid = {41657702},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Clinical Trials as Topic/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Registries/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19 Vaccines ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Global Health ; *mRNA Vaccines ; },
abstract = {mRNA vaccines, as a novel vaccine platform, have rapidly become a global research hotspot driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study employs a systematic analysis method based on clinical trial registries to conduct a descriptive statistical analysis of mRNA vaccine-related trials registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov database from March 2000 to July 2025. We compared characteristics such as the number of trials, geographical distribution, study type, funding sources, trial design, and indications, and used chi-square tests and Fisher's exact tests for inter-group difference analysis. The results show that the number of mRNA vaccine clinical trials has experienced explosive growth after the pandemic, presenting obvious pandemic-driven characteristics and geographical differences. There are significant differences in registration characteristics and trial design among China, the United States, and Europe (p<0.01). Indications have rapidly expanded from infectious diseases to multiple fields such as tumors, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic diseases, indicating that mRNA technology is transforming from an infectious disease prevention tool into a platform technology with broad therapeutic potential. From the perspective of clinical trial registration, this study provides empirical evidence for understanding the global research status, regional strategy differences, and future development directions of mRNA vaccines. It offers insights for vaccine development planning, international regulatory coordination, and global clinical trial strategic planning, assisting researchers, enterprises, and policymakers in making optimal decisions.},
}

Humans
*Clinical Trials as Topic/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Registries/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19 Vaccines
SARS-CoV-2
Global Health
*mRNA Vaccines

@article {pmid41658241,
year = {2026},
author = {Gil Arias, BS and Blandón Andrade, JC and Sidorov, G and Morales-Ríos, A},
title = {Computational methods for the identification of suicidal ideation: a systematic review.},
journal = {Frontiers in artificial intelligence},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {1704818},
pmid = {41658241},
issn = {2624-8212},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people, to the extent that in many countries it is considered a public health issue. It is important to attempt to reduce the growth of this trend, especially among susceptible individuals, considering that it increased because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Natural language processing (NLP) provides various tools that allow for the analysis of texts to predict the presence of suicidal ideation. This work aims to conduct a systematic literature review to extract the computational techniques for identifying suicidal ideation in texts written in natural language.

METHODS: The PRISMA 2020 method was used, which was divided into nine phases, and three inclusion criteria and two exclusion criteria were established for the selection of studies. The searches were conducted through high-level academic databases such as Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Springer, and Web of Science. The risk of bias was assessed using AMSTAR 2. Potential biases identified include a lack of linguistic and cultural diversity and the predominance of data from social networks. A narrative synthesis was used to analyze and compare the findings qualitatively.

RESULTS: In the end, 25 studies related to computational methods for detecting suicidal ideation in texts written in natural language were identified. The techniques mainly focus on transformer-based models such as BERT and hybrid methods, which combine this architecture with neural networks such as CNN and LSTM. There are also approaches with hierarchical attention mechanisms. Some studies employed additional techniques such as feature extraction with TF-IDF and pre-trained embeddings to improve model performance.

DISCUSSION: Limitations in the evidence include the lack of linguistic and cultural diversity and the predominance of data from social networks. These results indicate that computational techniques have high potential to support early prevention strategies for suicidal ideation. However, expanding the diversity of linguistic contexts and improving understanding of the models among non-experts, such as physicians and other interested individuals, is necessary.},
}

@article {pmid41658735,
year = {2026},
author = {Lakhani, HA and Baidya, OP and Alex, A and Binorkar, SV and Das, D and Hazra, A},
title = {New-Onset and Flare Episodes of Adult-Onset Still's Disease Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review of Published Case Reports.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e100889},
pmid = {41658735},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {This systematic review provides a descriptive synthesis of published case reports documenting new-onset or flare episodes of adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) temporally occurring after COVID-19 vaccination. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar identified 13 eligible case reports published between 2020 and 2024. Because all available evidence consisted solely of individual case descriptions without comparator groups, the review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and employed qualitative narrative synthesis rather than meta-analysis. Across the included cases, patients consistently presented with hallmark features of AOSD, including high spiking fever, arthritis or arthralgia, markedly elevated ferritin levels, and, in several instances, the characteristic salmon-colored rash. Symptom onset typically occurred within four to fifteen days following vaccination. Although these cases demonstrate recognisable clinical patterns, the absence of denominator data, lack of population-based studies, and inherent publication bias prevent estimation of incidence or risk, and no causal relationship with vaccination can be inferred. All reported patients responded favorably to corticosteroids, with some requiring biologic therapy for disease control. These findings highlight the importance of clinician awareness when evaluating persistent febrile or inflammatory symptoms in recently vaccinated individuals, while emphasising that COVID-19 vaccination remains overwhelmingly safe. Larger registries, pharmacovigilance data, and controlled studies are needed to clarify potential risk factors and guide future revaccination decisions.},
}

@article {pmid41660233,
year = {2026},
author = {Sakkos, A and Saint-John, B and Tyml, T and Myskova, E and Aureli, L and Inman, JL and Snijders, AM and Mouncey, NJ and Mukundan, H and Schulz, F},
title = {Agnostic capture of pathogens for the detection and diagnostics of emerging threats.},
journal = {iScience},
volume = {29},
number = {2},
pages = {114684},
pmid = {41660233},
issn = {2589-0042},
abstract = {The continued emergence of pathogens, whether novel, re-emerging, or engineered, poses a persistent global biosecurity and public health challenge. Recent outbreaks, including COVID-19, Lassa fever, Marburg virus, mpox, and avian influenza, underscore the urgent need for robust systems that enable rapid surveillance, early diagnosis, and timely countermeasures before widespread human transmission occurs. In this article, we focus on early detection technologies and systematically evaluate current diagnostic and sensing modalities. We highlight sequencing and spectroscopy as two complementary approaches capable of providing broad, agnostic detection and rich biological insight. Our analysis emphasizes that scientific innovation alone is insufficient: effective preparedness also requires improved data curation, integration, and sharing to build AI-ready resources that accelerate future responses. We argue for coordinated advances in both technological capabilities and supporting infrastructure to enable the rapid identification and characterization of emerging pathogens and to fully leverage modern science against evolving infectious threats.},
}

@article {pmid41661491,
year = {2026},
author = {Garg, RK and Jain, A and Pandey, S and Paliwal, V and Suresh, V and Singhal, S},
title = {Infection-associated Opsoclonus: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Cerebellum (London, England)},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {16},
pmid = {41661491},
issn = {1473-4230},
}

@article {pmid41661551,
year = {2026},
author = {Sundaram, ME},
title = {Vaccine safety for individuals receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: A narrative review of current literature and recommendations for future research.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2607893},
pmid = {41661551},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Neoplasms/drug therapy/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage/immunology ; *Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Vaccination/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {Some individuals with cancer may receive immunomodulatory treatment such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). ICIs are now part of standard of care for many cancers and have improved survival for cancer patients. However, they are also associated with immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which can affect any organ or system, and can range from mild to severe. It has been hypothesized that vaccination of these individuals could increase the risk of irAEs or other vaccine-associated adverse events. This narrative review of 28 primary research articles presents findings from existing literature on vaccine safety for individuals receiving ICIs, and makes recommendations for future research on this topic. The existing evidence suggests that influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are safe for individuals receiving ICIs and do not pose additional risks of irAEs beyond baseline risks associated with ICI therapy.},
}

Humans
*Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Neoplasms/drug therapy/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage/immunology
*Influenza Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
COVID-19/prevention & control
Vaccination/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid41662196,
year = {2026},
author = {Sirohi, A and Trivedi, YV and Katoch, T and Walters, B and Bansal, V and Pahal, S and Jain, R},
title = {The resurgence of Tuberculosis in the United States: Health implications, pathophysiological and clinical insights, emerging trends, strategic responses, and post-COVID-19 challenges.},
journal = {Chronic illness},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {17-35},
doi = {10.1177/17423953261417345},
pmid = {41662196},
issn = {1745-9206},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; United States/epidemiology ; *Tuberculosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy ; Health Services Accessibility ; Social Determinants of Health ; Latent Tuberculosis/epidemiology/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Social Stigma ; Healthcare Disparities ; },
abstract = {ObjectivesTo address the challenges of tuberculosis (TB) control in the United States post-COVID-19, focusing on high-risk populations, current diagnostic and treatment strategies, and the importance of addressing clinical and social determinants of health to achieve TB elimination goals.MethodsA review of the latest evidence-based guidelines and literature on TB diagnostics, treatment regimens, and latent TB infection (LTBI) management was conducted. Key public health challenges and interventions targeting socioeconomic disparities, stigma, and healthcare access among high-risk populations were analyzed.ResultsHigh-risk groups, including immigrants and ethnic minorities, continue to bear a disproportionate burden of TB due to socioeconomic disparities and comorbidities. Advancements in diagnostic modalities and treatment regimens offer promising outcomes, but gaps remain in LTBI screening and management. Addressing social determinants, such as healthcare access and stigma, is essential for enhancing TB control efforts.DiscussionEffective TB elimination requires collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to implement evidence-based strategies. Prioritizing both clinical precision and social interventions is critical for overcoming barriers and achieving national TB control and elimination goals.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
United States/epidemiology
*Tuberculosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/therapy/drug therapy
Health Services Accessibility
Social Determinants of Health
Latent Tuberculosis/epidemiology/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
Social Stigma
Healthcare Disparities

@article {pmid41662535,
year = {2026},
author = {Valabhji, J},
title = {Banting memorial lecture 2025: Aligning clinical practice, policy and research.},
journal = {Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e70245},
doi = {10.1111/dme.70245},
pmid = {41662535},
issn = {1464-5491},
abstract = {National clinical leadership, on a background of clinical practice and clinical research, provides unique perspectives. I have focused the Banting Memorial Lecture 2025 on the implementation of national programmes across England since 2013, for which, along with colleagues at NHS England, I successfully made the case for investment, led the implementation of interventions applied at scale across the country and used routinely collected healthcare data to demonstrate clinical effectiveness in the real world. Through specific examples of implemented programmes, including the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme and the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme, I highlight important fundamental principles when making the case for, and implementing, national policy. First, ensure granular data collection to support evaluation and exploit data linkages to harness the power of real-world datasets. Second, where good evidence exists, implement evidence-based policy; where good evidence does not exist but political pressures to implement are being brought to bear, pilot and evaluate. Third, when the opportunity arises, rapidly translate new high-quality evidence into policy and practice. And fourth, support and protect the workload of healthcare professionals, particularly of those working in primary care. Then, through an epidemiological lens, I highlight: how the COVID-19 pandemic further unlocked the potential of national routinely collected electronic healthcare datasets; how, through application of these datasets, it has been possible to demonstrate improvements in diabetes complications and mortality through routine care delivery; and how it has been possible to demonstrate the next epidemiological transition in the global diabetes epidemic to multimorbidity/multiple long-term conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41662710,
year = {2026},
author = {Sommer, I and Dobrescu, A and Gadinger, A and Sharifan, A and Pinte, L and Fangmeyer, M and Klerings, I and Gartlehner, G},
title = {Outpatient Treatment of Confirmed COVID-19: A Living, Rapid Review for the American College of Physicians (Version 3).},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {4},
pages = {524-534},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-03691},
pmid = {41662710},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Ambulatory Care ; Ritonavir/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Proline/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use ; Pyrazines/therapeutic use ; Amides/therapeutic use ; Drug Combinations ; Cytidine/analogs & derivatives ; Hydroxylamines ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Clinicians and patients need updated information on antiviral treatments for COVID-19.

PURPOSE: To provide a final update on the benefits and harms of COVID-19 antiviral treatments in adult outpatients.

DATA SOURCES: Ovid/MEDLINE, Epistemonikos COVID-19 L·OVE platform, and iSearch COVID-19 portfolio (22 January 2025); Ovid/MEDLINE (24 September 2025).

STUDY SELECTION: Two reviewers screened 20% of abstracts and full texts, then single screening. Randomized controlled trials were included for benefits and harms, and cohort studies were included for harms.

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

DATA SYNTHESIS: Seven studies from the Omicron period were included. 125 mg of ensitrelvir may not reduce time to recovery and may result in no difference in serious adverse events (both low CoE) but may increase adverse events (44.2% vs. 24.8%; low CoE). Molnupiravir probably improves recovery (31.8% vs. 22.6%) and reduces time to recovery (9 vs. 15 median days) and persistent symptoms from 3 to 6 months (8.5% vs. 11.0%), with no effect on mortality, hospitalization, serious adverse events, and adverse events (all moderate CoE). Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir may increase recovery (70.7% vs. 53.6%; low CoE) and reduce time to recovery (no data, P = 0.011; low CoE) but probably increases adverse events (1.3% vs. 1.0%; moderate CoE). Simnotrelvir-ritonavir reduces time to recovery (-35.8 median hours; high CoE) and probably increases adverse events (28.9% vs. 21.6%; moderate CoE). There was no difference in recovery between molnupiravir and favipiravir (high CoE) and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and molnupiravir (low CoE).

LIMITATION: Evidence for many outcomes is limited.

CONCLUSION: Three COVID-19 antivirals improved or accelerated recovery, with varying adverse event profiles. Molnupiravir probably offers long-term benefits.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: American College of Physicians. (PROSPERO: CRD420251029146; OSF: https://osf.io/ywp6u).},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
*Ambulatory Care
Ritonavir/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Proline/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use
Pyrazines/therapeutic use
Amides/therapeutic use
Drug Combinations
Cytidine/analogs & derivatives
Hydroxylamines

@article {pmid41662713,
year = {2026},
author = {Qaseem, A and Obley, AJ and Yost, J and Abraham, GM and Andrews, RA and Jokela, JA and Miller, MC and Humphrey, LL and , and Haeme, R and Krain, A and Poonacha, T and Saini, SD and Wilt, TJ and Carroll, K and Etxeandia-Ikobaltzeta, I and Harrod, CS and Shamliyan, T and Vigna, C},
title = {Outpatient Treatment of Confirmed COVID-19 in Symptomatic Adults: Living, Rapid Practice Points From the American College of Physicians (Version 3).},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {4},
pages = {559-563},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-25-03766},
pmid = {41662713},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Ritonavir/therapeutic use ; *Ambulatory Care ; COVID-19 ; Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Combinations ; Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {DESCRIPTION: The American College of Physicians (ACP) maintains living, rapid practice points on antiviral treatment in the outpatient setting for COVID-19.

METHODS: The Population Health and Medical Science Committee (PHMSC) developed this version 3 based on evidence from a focused update of a living, rapid review conducted by the ACP Center for Evidence Reviews at Cochrane Austria. This version addresses the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant and reaffirms previous practice points on the use of antiviral treatments of confirmed COVID-19 in unvaccinated or vaccinated and symptomatic patients in the outpatient setting.

PRACTICE POINT 1: Consider nirmatrelvir-ritonavir combination therapy to treat symptomatic patients with confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 in the outpatient setting who are within 5 days of the onset of symptoms and at a high risk for progressing to severe disease.

PRACTICE POINT 2: Consider molnupiravir to treat symptomatic patients with confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 in the outpatient setting who are within 5 days of the onset of symptoms and at a high risk for progressing to severe disease.

PRACTICE POINT 3: Do not use ivermectin to treat patients with confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 in the outpatient setting.

PRACTICE POINT 4: Do not use sotrovimab to treat patients with confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 in the outpatient setting.

RETIREMENT FROM LIVING STATUS: The PHMSC is retiring this topic from living status considering that this update and previous surveillance have not yielded important changes to the practice points.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Ritonavir/therapeutic use
*Ambulatory Care
COVID-19
Adult
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Combinations
Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized/therapeutic use

@article {pmid41663803,
year = {2026},
author = {Karimi, F and Rajaie, S and Azari, S and Abbaszadeh, MS and Karimi, Z},
title = {Economic evaluation of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for venous thromboembolism with different etiologies: a systematic review.},
journal = {Health economics review},
volume = {16},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41663803},
issn = {2191-1991},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) imposes significant clinical and economic burdens. While direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) offer favorable efficacy and safety, their cost-effectiveness across diverse VTE etiologies remains incompletely synthesized.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically evaluate the cost-effectiveness of DOACs versus comparators for VTE management stratified by etiology.

METHODS: A PRISMA-compliant systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and NHS EED (2020–2025). Economic evaluations reporting cost-effectiveness or cost-utility outcomes were included. Study quality was assessed using the Drummond checklist.

RESULTS: Twenty studies were included (9 CAT, 3 post-surgical, 6 hospitalized VTE, 2 COVID-19). DOACs were cost-effective or dominant in 18/20 studies. For cancer-associated thrombosis (CAT), DOACs dominated LMWHs and were cost-effective versus placebo (ICERs: $5,794–$11,947/QALY). DOACs were also dominant for post-surgical prophylaxis and in general hospitalized VTE (ICERs: -$1,862/QALY to $125.68/QALY), while rivaroxaban was cost-effective for post-COVID-19 prophylaxis (ICER: $5,386/QALY).

CONCLUSION: DOACs, particularly apixaban and rivaroxaban, are an economically dominant strategy for VTE across most etiologies. Their adoption as a first-line therapy can improve patient outcomes while significantly reducing healthcare costs.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13561-026-00741-z.},
}

@article {pmid41665282,
year = {2026},
author = {Oda, M and Yoshimori, Y and Yamada, T and Amagasa, S and Fukuda, Y},
title = {Health of teleworkers: a scoping review on the assessment of the work-from-home environment.},
journal = {Journal of occupational health},
volume = {68},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41665282},
issn = {1348-9585},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Teleworking ; *Workplace/psychology ; *Occupational Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Inappropriate telework environments, including work-from-home (WFH) settings, have been linked to physical and mental health problems. However, no systematic assessment has been conducted regarding the WFH environment (WFH-E). The aim of this study was to clarify the current methods used to assess the WFH-E and its association with health- and work-related outcomes through a scoping review.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Ichushi for literature published since 2010 on WFH-E assessment. Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines, assessment methods were summarized using 18 items categorized into 9 domains. Additionally, associations between the WFH-E and health- and work-related outcomes were reviewed.

RESULTS: Of 1669 articles collected, 37 studies published from 2020 were ultimately included in this review. Thirty-four articles involved subjective assessments, and 9 involved objective assessments. The most frequently assessed item was artificial lighting, followed by thermal conditions and noise. Items such as color, greenery, building materials, and odor were rarely assessed. Most studies showed significant associations between the WFH-E and health- and work-related outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS: Studies on the WFH-E increased following the COVID-19 pandemic, showing significant associations between the WFH-E and health- and work-related outcomes. However, most assessments were subjective, with objective assessments remaining rare. Additionally, the assessment items were limited and biased, indicating that interior design elements were insufficiently assessed. Developing additional objective and comprehensive methods for assessing the WFH-E is needed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Teleworking
*Workplace/psychology
*Occupational Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41665459,
year = {2026},
author = {Gomez Rial, J and Redondo, E and Rivero-Calle, I and Mascarós, E and Ocaña, D and Jimeno, I and Gil, Á and Linares, M and Onieva-García, MÁ and González-Romo, F and Yuste, J and Martinón-Torres, F},
title = {Immunofitness in the elderly: The role of vaccination in promoting healthy aging.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2624234},
pmid = {41665459},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; Aged ; *Vaccination/methods ; *Healthy Aging/immunology ; Immunosenescence ; COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; Aged, 80 and over ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *Aging/immunology ; },
abstract = {Aging reshapes immunity through immunosenescence and inflammaging, increasing susceptibility to infection, exacerbating chronic conditions, and blunting vaccine responses. This review frames "immunofitness" as a practical goal of healthy aging and examines how adult vaccination builds immune resilience. Vaccination strengthens adaptive memory, leverages adjuvants to optimize antigen presentation, and can reprogramme innate cells (trained immunity), yielding heterologous benefits beyond target pathogens. We integrate evidence in older adults for influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, pneumococcal, COVID-19, and recombinant zoster vaccines, including reductions in respiratory events, cardiovascular outcomes, hospitalization, and mortality. We highlight emerging platforms and precision vaccinology to tailor schedules by immune age, comorbidity, and frailty. Integrating routine, age-appropriate vaccination with lifestyle measures is a feasible, high-impact strategy to promote immunofitness.},
}

Humans
Aged
*Vaccination/methods
*Healthy Aging/immunology
Immunosenescence
COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
Aged, 80 and over
Pneumococcal Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*Aging/immunology

@article {pmid41665756,
year = {2026},
author = {Karaçam, Z and Ofei, P and Uzunoğlu, G and Güneş Öztürk, G},
title = {The effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Archives of women's mental health},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {37},
pmid = {41665756},
issn = {1435-1102},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Fear/psychology ; Pregnancy ; *Parturition/psychology ; *Prenatal Education/methods ; *Pregnant People/psychology ; COVID-19/psychology ; *Prenatal Care ; *Delivery, Obstetric/psychology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth among pregnant women based on previously conducted studies.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The data were pooled through meta-analysis. ROBINS-I and RoB2 were used to assess the quality of the studies. The GRADE approach was used for evaluating the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 28 studies and the total sample size of the studies was 3073. The results showed that statistically, prenatal education significantly reduced the fear of childbirth during both the antepartum and postpartum period (SMD: -1.12, z = 9.14, p < 0.001; MD: -24.35, z = 6.18, p < 0.001 respectively). The meta-regression performed indicated that the study design, the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, data collection tools, the countries of the studies and features of education had no effect on the results of fear of childbirth in pregnancy. Moreover, the meta-analyses showed that prenatal education increased the likelihood of vaginal birth and the preference for vaginal birth approximately by two times and three times respectively (OR: 2.00, z = 4.82, p < 0.001; OR: 2.87, z = 3.89, p = 0.001 respectively). The certainty of evidence was low for fear of childbirth during pregnancy, moderate for fear of childbirth in the postpartum period and high for vaginal birth and preference for vaginal birth.

CONCLUSION: This study revealed that prenatal education was effective for reducing the fear of childbirth and therefore, increasing vaginal births.

REGISTRATION NUMBER: CCRD42022378547.},
}

Humans
Female
*Fear/psychology
Pregnancy
*Parturition/psychology
*Prenatal Education/methods
*Pregnant People/psychology
COVID-19/psychology
*Prenatal Care
*Delivery, Obstetric/psychology

@article {pmid41666787,
year = {2026},
author = {Cao, Q and Du, S and Yang, K and Liu, M and Xiao, L and Wang, Q and Fu, J and Zhu, H},
title = {Assessing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination on fertility and assisted reproductive techniques outcomes: an umbrella review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {76},
number = {},
pages = {128293},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128293},
pmid = {41666787},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Male ; Female ; *Reproductive Techniques, Assisted ; *Fertility ; Semen Analysis ; Pregnancy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Sperm Motility ; Sperm Count ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination on fertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN: This is an Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses. We searched major databases until December 30, 2023. The quality of evidence was assessed by a Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

RESULTS: Of 647 studies identified, 14 studies with 40 outcomes were included. COVID-19 infection may decrease semen quality in men, including semen volume (WMD, -0.48 ml; 95% CI, -0.59 to -0.36 ml), total sperm count (WMD, -34.84 × 10^6; 95% CI, -43.51 to -26.17 × 10^6), sperm concentration (WMD, -16.23 × 10^6/ml; 95% CI, -25.56 × 10^6 to -6.89 × 10^6), viability (SMD, -0.66; 95% CI, -1.27 to -0.06), and total sperm motility (SMD, -0.61; 95% CI, -0.96 to -0.25), and elevated levels of estradiol (SMD 0.652; 95% CI, 0.254 to 1.049; p = 0.001) and prolactin (SMD 0.305; 95% CI, 0.045 to 0.566; p = 0.022). However, it did not significantly affect testosterone levels. Notably, even after recovery (over 90 days), sperm concentration and motility remained lower compared to uninfected individuals. Conversely, COVID-19 showed minimal impact on female ovarian reserve (including antral follicle count, AMH) or ART outcomes (including oocyte number and quality, embryo quality, implantation rates, clinical pregnancy rates and miscarriage rates). Vaccination also had minimal effects on both sexes. Evidence quality was generally very low, highlighting the need for high-quality, long-term studies.

CONCLUSION: SARS-CoV-2 infection primarily affects male fertility, leading to reductions in sperm quality, count, and motility. However, female fertility and ART outcomes show little to no impact. COVID-19 vaccination shows minimal impact on fertility and ART outcomes. The quality of evidence is rated as very low to low. High-quality prospective studies with longer follow-up periods are needed.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Male
Female
*Reproductive Techniques, Assisted
*Fertility
Semen Analysis
Pregnancy
SARS-CoV-2
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Sperm Motility
Sperm Count

@article {pmid41666990,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahroum, N and Elsalti, A and Alsharif, M and Jabri, A and Ouban, A},
title = {Autoimmunity in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors: the evolving epidemiology of autoimmune diseases and the possible impact of COVID-19.},
journal = {Autoimmunity reviews},
volume = {25},
number = {3},
pages = {104002},
doi = {10.1016/j.autrev.2026.104002},
pmid = {41666990},
issn = {1873-0183},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology/complications ; *Autoimmune Diseases/epidemiology/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Autoimmunity/drug effects ; *Neoplasms/drug therapy/immunology ; Female ; },
abstract = {Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have markedly improved the prognosis of previously fatal malignancies, as evidenced by substantial gains in overall and progression-free survival in multiple clinical trials. The mechanism of action of ICIs is based on altering the immune response while the reported side effects display clear autoimmune features. Designated as immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affect nearly every organ system, including the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and thyroid gland, and share features with autoimmune disorders of the same organs. The severity of irAEs ranges from mild to life-threatening reactions. Many cases require systemic corticosteroids, hospitalization, and in many instances the discontinuation of ICI therapy. In this review, we present the history of ICIs, their indications, and the reported irAEs in a systematic manner. We then focus on the autoimmune nature of these side effects, with particular attention to the epidemiology of autoimmune diseases, including their female preponderance in certain age groups. In the final sections, we discuss how irAEs may be altering the epidemiology of autoimmune disease and address the possible effect of COVID-19 as a potential trigger.},
}

Humans
*Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/immunology/epidemiology/complications
*Autoimmune Diseases/epidemiology/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Autoimmunity/drug effects
*Neoplasms/drug therapy/immunology
Female

@article {pmid41668135,
year = {2026},
author = {Mayers, T and Terunuma, Y and Inokuchi, R and Guantai, F and Ring, HZ and Akashi, J},
title = {Barriers and facilitators to healthcare access for refugee, immigrant, and migrant populations during the COVID-19 pandemic: an overview of reviews.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41668135},
issn = {1472-6963},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Refugee, immigrant, and migrant (RIM) populations experienced unique obstacles to healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. Already facing displacement, insecure legal status, and economic instability, RIM populations were further affected by service disruptions, discrimination, and systemic weaknesses. The objective of this overview of reviews was to synthesize evidence on barriers and facilitators to healthcare access for RIM populations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: This review followed the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024552590). Systematic searches of Embase, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, CENTRAL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (January 2020 onward) identified systematic reviews addressing healthcare access for RIM during COVID-19. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed methodological quality using AMSTAR 2. Narrative synthesis was used to categorize barriers and facilitators into cross-cutting domains following a socio-ecological model framework.

RESULTS: Nine systematic reviews (published 2021–2024) met inclusion criteria, encompassing 14–256 primary studies each, and spanning low-, middle-, and high-income settings across the Americas, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Nine interacting domains of barriers and facilitators emerged involving legal constraints, economic concerns, service provision, physical and digital access, trust and confidence, information and communication, cultural and social influences, psychological and perceptual factors, and structural/systemic weaknesses. Common barriers included fear of deportation, exclusion from national health or social protection systems, job and income loss, high direct and indirect costs, service closures, overcrowded housing, discrimination, and misinformation. Facilitators included suspension of exclusionary policies, telemedicine and digital tools, mobile clinics, multilingual and culturally appropriate communication, messaging from trusted clinicians and community leaders, and civil society engagement.

CONCLUSIONS: This overview shows that the pandemic both intensified long-standing barriers and prompted innovative solutions for RIM healthcare access. Lessons from the pandemic can help guide future sustainable, inclusive health systems for displaced populations.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-026-14138-5.},
}

@article {pmid41668138,
year = {2026},
author = {Parks, OB and Kalavacharla, A and Williams, JV},
title = {Respiratory virus immune response in the aged host.},
journal = {Immunity & ageing : I & A},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {10},
pmid = {41668138},
issn = {1742-4933},
support = {R21 AI180460/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI085062/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; F30 HL159915/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; HL159915/HL/NHLBI NIH HHS/United States ; AI085062//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; T32 GM008208/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States ; },
abstract = {Viruses are a major cause of acute respiratory illness in older adults and pose a substantial burden as the elderly population continues to grow. In the current COVID-19 global health crisis, achieving a better understanding of the aging immune system proves to be an imperative step in preventing and treating respiratory viral infections in older patients. Furthermore, many common respiratory viruses infecting older adults, including human metapneumovirus and parainfluenza virus, do not have licensed vaccines, thereby increasing the risk of severe infection in the aged host. Moreover, given the slowed immune response of older adults, vaccine efficacy for respiratory viruses such as influenza in older adults is minimal, indicating the need to develop more potent vaccines. A better understanding of the aging immune system would allow vaccines to target immunological deficits in the aged host. Three aspects of the aging immune system affect the response to respiratory viruses and vaccines: [1] innate immunity [2], the “inflammaging” hypothesis, and [3] the adaptive immune response. Several innate immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells) as well as adaptive immune cells (T and B lymphocytes) exhibit significant functional impairment in older adults. The inflammaging hypothesis bridges the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge and fill gaps in our understanding of the aged immune response to respiratory viruses.},
}

@article {pmid41668155,
year = {2026},
author = {Tiwary, P and Oswal, K and Tzvetkov, NT and Litvinova, O and Atanasov, AG and Varghese, R},
title = {Travel microbiota: a novel frontier in travel medicine exploring microbial shifts across transportation modes.},
journal = {Tropical diseases, travel medicine and vaccines},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {9},
pmid = {41668155},
issn = {2055-0936},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Between 2010 and 2019, international travel increased by approximately 52.2%, highlighting the world's dependence on transportation for global connectivity. Although travel enhances global interactions, it also poses risks to public health through the potential transmission of diseases. The rapid global transmission of infectious diseases, exemplified by the outbreaks of COVID-19 and Zika virus, underscores the critical need for in-depth research into travel-associated disease dissemination. When individuals travel, they are exposed to a variety of diverse microbial environments, which can affect their healthy microbiome. In this review, we introduce the concept of "travel microbiota" to encapsulate the dynamic shifts in human microbial communities induced by travel across different transportation modes. This disruption can affect metabolic and immune functions and potentially facilitate the spread of diseases. Given these implications, it is crucial to investigate how different modes of transportation affect the human microbiota. Our study reviews the impact of travel on the human microbiota, highlighting differences across transportation modes. The objective is to establish a framework for understanding travel health and the role of microbiota in managing travel-related health risks. A comprehensive understanding of this relationship is essential for developing preventive strategies to safeguard and restore the human microbiota.

METHODS: To provide the specific content, relevant publications were identified on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct using specific keywords such as dysbiosis, gut, health, microbiome, microbiota, pathogens, travel, and transportation. We did not add any limits to the publication date during the inclusion of papers. However, it is noteworthy that the initial reports, including the aforementioned keywords, have been published starting from 2015.

CONCLUSION: Travel has a profound impact on the human microbiota, and it is essential to consider the implications associated with various modes of transportation. Traveling through various modes of transportation, such as roadways, airways, and maritime, has significantly influenced human microbiota. Moreover, it acts as a dynamic interface for microbial exchange driving rapid shift in microbial diversity, community convergence, and the diversification of resistant genes. However, the underlying mechanism of these changes remains elusive. By integrating evidence across multiple modes of transportation, this review highlights travel as an underrecognized determinant of microbiome variability and introduces the term "Travel microbiota". Moreover, this review is pivotal for understanding the ways in which travel alters microbial diversity and developing effective interventions. It is imperative to conduct future research that focuses on conducting large-scale longitudinal studies to assess the effects of traveling on microbial composition and to develop potential preventive measures.},
}

@article {pmid41668172,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, DY and Youn, J and Kang, N and Cho, SI and Ha, IH},
title = {Potential application of brain-gut axis-based treatments in Long COVID and ME/CFS: a case-based systematic review.},
journal = {Journal of translational medicine},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41668172},
issn = {1479-5876},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/therapy/physiopathology ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/therapy/physiopathology ; Electroacupuncture ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Brain-Gut Axis/physiology ; Male ; *Brain/physiopathology ; Adult ; Female ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long COVID share clinical features including persistent fatigue, post-exertional malaise (PEM), and gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction. Growing evidence implicates brain-gut axis dysregulation, characterized by dysbiosis, neuroinflammation within the central nervous system (CNS), increased intestinal permeability, and microbial translocation in their pathophysiology. However, therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways remain poorly defined.

METHODS: We report a case of post-COVID ME/CFS successfully treated with electroacupuncture (EA)-based deep peroneal nerve stimulation which was employed to potentiate the vagal reflex. Fatigue trajectories were assessed using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory over 12 weeks. Based on the case, a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating brain-gut axis-modulating interventions in ME/CFS or Long COVID was conducted.

RESULTS: The patient exhibited a significant reduction in total fatigue, with early improvements in motivation and mental fatigue, and delayed improvement in physical fatigue following transient systemic symptom flares. Across included RCTs (n = 8, 790 participants), four investigated gut microbiome-modulating therapies and four employed nerve stimulation. Synbiotic and herbal interventions demonstrated benefits for fatigue or PEM, accompanied by alterations in specific bacterial populations or CNS metabolisms. Regarding nerve stimulation, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with exercise program improved fatigue, whereas standalone tDCS, auricular or peripheral TENS showed limited efficacy.

CONCLUSION: Brain-gut axis-based interventions may alleviate fatigue in ME/CFS and Long COVID by potentially modulating neuroinflammation, restoring microbiome balance, and improving epithelial barrier function. EA-based vagal stimulation represents a feasible option for patients with severe or treatment-resistant symptoms. Larger mechanistic studies and rigorously designed RCTs are needed to establish therapeutic targets and optimize intervention strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/therapy/physiopathology
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/therapy/physiopathology
Electroacupuncture
SARS-CoV-2
*Brain-Gut Axis/physiology
Male
*Brain/physiopathology
Adult
Female
Middle Aged

@article {pmid41671715,
year = {2026},
author = {Antunez Martinez, OF and Vallejo Bustamante, YI and Varela Zuniga, NO},
title = {Mapping the advanced practice nursing in emergency and intensive care units: A scoping review.},
journal = {International emergency nursing},
volume = {85},
number = {},
pages = {101764},
doi = {10.1016/j.ienj.2026.101764},
pmid = {41671715},
issn = {1878-013X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Advanced Practice Nursing/methods/standards ; *Intensive Care Units/organization & administration ; *Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration ; COVID-19/nursing ; Clinical Competence/standards ; *Nurse's Role ; *Emergency Nursing ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), including Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, contribute significantly to quality, efficiency, and leadership in emergency departments (EDs) and intensive care units (ICUs). However, role variability, inconsistent regulation, and limited post-pandemic evidence remain challenges.

PURPOSE: To synthesize recent global evidence on APN roles, competencies, outcomes, and implementation challenges in EDs and ICUs, and identify strategies for effective integration.

METHOD: A scoping review, following Arksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, searched six databases. Eligible sources focused on APNs in EDs or ICUs. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted, and synthesized data descriptively and thematically.

FINDINGS: Twenty-five studies were included, showing APNs' main competences as advanced clinical reasoning, procedural skills, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Challenges involved role ambiguity, regulatory gaps, and limited autonomy. Post-COVID-19 developments expanded APN responsibilities but exposed workforce and educational gaps. Solutions proposed included standardized competencies, policy reform, postgraduate education, and interprofessional collaboration.

CONCLUSIONS: APNs enhance outcomes and efficiency in EDs and ICUs, but variability in role definitions limits impact. The current body of evidence surrounding APN practice in ICUs and EDs is primarily based on studies with low levels of evidence. Future implementation should be accompanied by rigorous evaluations to generate robust statistical evidence that supports the transferability of APN-led models.},
}

Humans
*Advanced Practice Nursing/methods/standards
*Intensive Care Units/organization & administration
*Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration
COVID-19/nursing
Clinical Competence/standards
*Nurse's Role
*Emergency Nursing

@article {pmid41672424,
year = {2026},
author = {Gracidas, C and Levy, R and Varon, J and Halma, M},
title = {Lactate, Capnia, and Fat Oxidation as Therapeutic Axes for SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Induced Sequelae.},
journal = {Hormone and metabolic research = Hormon- und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones et metabolisme},
volume = {58},
number = {3},
pages = {90-102},
doi = {10.1055/a-2794-9646},
pmid = {41672424},
issn = {1439-4286},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/metabolism/complications ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; Oxidation-Reduction ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; *Lactic Acid/metabolism ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Fatty Acids/metabolism ; COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Metabolic alterations characterize a large subset of those with post-acute COVID-19 syndrome, and similar symptoms affect those with post-acute COVID-19 vaccination syndrome. These symptoms are characterized by the triumvirate of post-acute COVID-19 (vaccination) syndrome symptoms: post-exertional malaise, fatigue, and cognitive impairment, commonly referred to as brain fog. These symptoms can be recreated through perturbations that disrupt mitochondria, and spike protein has been observed to disrupt mitochondria in vitro, providing mechanistic support for this relationship. Post-acute COVID-19 (vaccination) syndrome patients suffer from a severely decreased lactate threshold and can experience symptoms of overexertion even at low power output. Furthermore, biopsies have revealed disrupted mitochondria, and energetics and physiological studies have shown that lipid oxidation constitutes a significantly reduced fraction of total energy production/consumption in post-acute COVID-19 (vaccination) syndrome patients. This review explores the therapeutic axes of lactate, carbon dioxide, and fatty acid oxidation for resolving the energy production challenges in post-acute COVID-19 (vaccination) syndrome, suggesting interventions that increase the lactate threshold, increase tissue oxygenation (paradoxically through increasing partial pressure of CO2), and increase the rates at which lipids are oxidized relative to carbohydrates. Analogies from the world of exercise science are introduced, comparing post-acute COVID-19 (vaccination) syndrome to an overabundance of fast-twitch muscle fibers, with oxygenation similar to that experienced at high altitude, and presenting as an inverse 'fat adaptation' phenomenon, as observed in endurance athletes, especially those adopting low-carbohydrate diets.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/metabolism/complications
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
Oxidation-Reduction
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
*Lactic Acid/metabolism
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Fatty Acids/metabolism
COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects

@article {pmid41673122,
year = {2026},
author = {Pan, Q and Wang, W and Janssen, HLA and Zhong, Z},
title = {Status and outlook of mRNA therapeutics for viral diseases.},
journal = {EMBO molecular medicine},
volume = {18},
number = {3},
pages = {861-872},
pmid = {41673122},
issn = {1757-4684},
support = {12K0323N//Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek (FWO)/ ; 91719300//ZonMw (Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *RNA, Messenger/genetics/therapeutic use/immunology ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Virus Diseases/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Animals ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology ; },
abstract = {Endemic and emerging viral diseases continue to impose significant health, economic, and societal burdens worldwide. Vaccines and therapeutics represent two key pillars in the fight against these threats. Since the clinical success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA therapeutics have rapidly evolved from a niche innovation into a validated and versatile medical platform. While early efforts focused primarily on vaccine development, recent advances have expanded the scope to antiviral applications of in vitro-transcribed mRNA. Emerging strategies include in vivo expression of neutralizing antibodies for passive immunization, delivery of innate immune effectors such as interferons and antiviral peptides, and programmable CRISPR-based antiviral systems. In parallel, progress in mRNA delivery technologies has enabled clinical translation, although challenges related to stability, specificity, and immunogenicity remain. In this Perspective article, we review recent preclinical and clinical advances in mRNA therapeutics for viral infections. We also highlight key scientific, technical, and regulatory challenges, and propose strategic solutions to address the pressing need for controlling endemic viral diseases and enhancing global pandemic preparedness.},
}

Humans
*RNA, Messenger/genetics/therapeutic use/immunology
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Virus Diseases/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Animals
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology

@article {pmid41673927,
year = {2026},
author = {Gasmi, M and Torabinasab, K and Williams-Hooker, R and Marsigliante, S and Muscella, A},
title = {The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a marker of immunosenescence and COVID-19 outcomes in the elderly: A narrative review.},
journal = {Physiological reports},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {e70682},
pmid = {41673927},
issn = {2051-817X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/blood ; *Neutrophils/immunology ; *Immunosenescence ; Aged ; *Lymphocytes/immunology ; Biomarkers/blood ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Aging/immunology ; Prognosis ; Lymphocyte Count ; Aged, 80 and over ; },
abstract = {Older adults are highly vulnerable to severe COVID-19. Unlike our previous work on broad immunosenescence, this review focuses on peripheral hematological markers as practical indicators of risk. To examine lymphopenia, neutrophilia, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as clinically accessible markers of immune aging and COVID-19 severity in older adults. Literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (up to 2025) for studies on aging, immunosenescence, lymphopenia, neutrophilia, NLR, and COVID-19. These markers consistently correlate with worse COVID-19 outcomes; NLR is a simple, reliable indicator of immune dysregulation, systemic inflammation, and mortality risk. Lymphopenia, neutrophilia, and elevated NLR are low-cost, readily measurable markers associated with COVID-19 severity, highlighting their prognostic value and complementing prior immunosenescence research.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/blood
*Neutrophils/immunology
*Immunosenescence
Aged
*Lymphocytes/immunology
Biomarkers/blood
SARS-CoV-2
*Aging/immunology
Prognosis
Lymphocyte Count
Aged, 80 and over

@article {pmid41674460,
year = {2026},
author = {McTiernan, K and Hughes, C and Gilheaney, Ó},
title = {Cognitive Communication, Voice and Swallowing Difficulties Experienced by Adults With Long-COVID: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {e70595},
pmid = {41674460},
issn = {1369-7625},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Deglutition Disorders/etiology ; *Voice Disorders/etiology ; *Communication ; Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Communication Disorders/etiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Adults with Long-COVID frequently experience impairments in cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing, however, few comprehensive reviews of the existing literature has yet to be conducted to map the current research landscape. To go some way toward addressing this gap, this scoping review collected and analysed relevant published studies to identify reported symptoms related to cognitive communication, voice and swallowing in post COVID-19 patients and the assessments used to identify these difficulties.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to systematically map the existing literature on cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing difficulties in individuals living with Long-COVID and the assessments used to identify these difficulties.

METHODS: Four databases were searched to identify original research articles aligned with the study's objectives. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected, and the findings were analysed with a specific focus on three key symptom domains: cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing.

RESULTS: Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. A broad range of assessments were used, and a broad range of symptoms were identified related to cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing difficulties in patients with Long-COVID-19. The symptoms reported most frequently in the selected studies included memory deficits, incomplete or inefficient glottic closure, paradoxical vocal fold motion during inspiration, episodes of choking, globus sensation, premature spillage and pyriform sinus residue.

CONCLUSION: Despite limited prior research in this area, the findings underscore the significant impact that COVID-19 infection may have on cognitive communication, voice and swallowing functions. Post-COVID-19 patients report a wide array of challenges in these domains. As a result, further clinical research is essential to develop patient-centred care strategies and to equip healthcare professionals with the expertise required for effective management of this group of patients.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Deglutition Disorders/etiology
*Voice Disorders/etiology
*Communication
Adult
SARS-CoV-2
*Communication Disorders/etiology

@article {pmid41675121,
year = {2026},
author = {Elizabeth, L and Shanthi, B and Cherupanakkal, C and Joseph, JJ and Anirudhan, A and Vaidyanathan, K},
title = {Exploring the Interplay Between Micronutrients and Cytokine Storm in Children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome: 'A Potential Mechanical Insight'.},
journal = {Indian journal of clinical biochemistry : IJCB},
volume = {41},
number = {1},
pages = {5-16},
pmid = {41675121},
issn = {0970-1915},
abstract = {Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection. MIS-C is characterized by inflammation in several organ systems, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, and eyes. Although MIS-C symptoms can vary widely, typical symptoms include fever, stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, red eyes, and exhaustion. Although the pathogenesis of MIS-C is not yet fully understood, studies have shown that an uncontrolled immunological response known as a "cytokine storm" may play a role in the development of MIS-C. Several studies have related micronutrient deficiencies to chronic immunological activation, increased inflammation, increased cytokine production, and increased chance of developing a persistent viral infection. Studies have shown that children with MIS-C had lower micronutrients, including vitamin D, C, and zinc, than do healthy kids. Deficits in these nutrients, which are crucial for controlling the immunological response, may make the immune system less able to fight off infections and cause MIS-C. In conclusion, research on the connection between MIS-C and micronutrient deficiencies is still in its early stages. Although there is some evidence linking the two, additional research is required to determine a cause and effect.},
}

@article {pmid41675728,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahsan, A and Ibrahim, O and Ayesha, M and Hassni, AA and Saif, S and Mahin, FE and Khan, S and Tague, C},
title = {Fusion of molecular mimicry, epigenetic predisposition, and new onset GBS: a narrative review of current understanding and future directions.},
journal = {Annals of medicine and surgery (2012)},
volume = {88},
number = {2},
pages = {1532-1540},
pmid = {41675728},
issn = {2049-0801},
abstract = {Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a severe immune-driven polyneuropathy marked by the acute onset of flaccid paralysis, areflexia, and in severe cases, life-threatening autonomic or respiratory failure. Although the clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria are widely established, the precise mechanisms underlying GBS are complex and poorly understood. This review summarizes current literature on the interplay of post-infectious triggers, molecular mimicry, and host susceptibility as influenced by genetic and epigenetic variables. Infectious pathogens such as Campylobacter jejuni, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and, more recently, Zika and SARS-CoV-2 operate as initiators via molecular mimicry, in which pathogen antigens imitate peripheral nerve components, triggering the formation of autoreactive antibody and T-cell responses. Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) is characterized by demyelination and inflammatory cytokine responses, whereas acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) is associated with ganglioside-targeting antibodies and axonal loss. Genetic polymorphisms, such as those in HLA, TLR4, MMP9, and CD1A, influence vulnerability to the disease and its progression. Given that many patients experience persistent sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction despite treatment, the identification of long-term complications highlights the necessity of customized rehabilitation and long-term follow-up. Traditional therapeutic techniques, such as plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin, remain in use, but current trials on complement inhibitors, antibody-degrading enzymes, and mesenchymal stem cell therapies indicate a move toward mechanism-driven approaches. Despite these advances, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding predictors of poor outcomes and underlying causes of persistent disabilities and complications, highlighting the need for continued translational and clinical research.},
}

@article {pmid41675944,
year = {2026},
author = {Madi, M},
title = {Viral Contributions to Periodontal and Peri-implant Disease: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Saudi journal of medicine & medical sciences},
volume = {14},
number = {1},
pages = {14-22},
pmid = {41675944},
issn = {2321-4856},
abstract = {Periodontal diseases, particularly periodontitis, are chronic inflammation with complex microbial and immunological etiologies. While bacterial pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis are well-known contributors, emerging evidence indicates the role of viruses, especially herpesviruses, in the onset and progression of periodontal tissue destruction. In this review, the interplay between viral infections and periodontal health was explored, with an emphasis on the immunopathological mechanisms in which different viruses such as human herpesvirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and human cytomegalovirus aggravate periodontal tissue destruction. These viruses impair host defenses, promote bacterial colonization, and alter cytokine responses, leading to periodontal tissue damage. The review also addresses the impact of systemic viral infections, such as HIV and COVID-19, on periodontal diseases. Elevation in inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6, link periodontitis with adverse clinical outcomes in viral infections. Moreover, interactions between P. gingivalis and respiratory viruses suggest oral pathogens may also influence systemic disease severity. Advances in diagnosis using molecular technology have improved viral detection in periodontal tissues, and previous studies support the use of antiviral therapies and gene-targeted interventions as potential adjuncts to traditional periodontal care. The integration of preventive strategies, such as vaccination and enhanced oral hygiene, is crucial in reducing the systemic consequences of viral-periodontal interactions. This review highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and continued research to fully comprehend the virological dimensions of periodontal disease and develop effective, targeted therapeutic approaches.},
}

@article {pmid41677601,
year = {2026},
author = {Muir, KC and Harris, DD and Kanuparthy, M and Hu, J and Nho, JW and Stone, C and Banerjee, D and Sellke, FW and Feng, J},
title = {Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41677601},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {P20GM103652/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; 1R56HL169501-01/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; R01HL179089/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; 1R01HL176640-01/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; T32HL16051703/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; R01HL46716/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; R01HL128831/GF/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism ; *COVID-19/virology/pathology/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/metabolism ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; Animals ; *Endothelium, Vascular/pathology/physiopathology/metabolism/virology ; Endothelial Cells/metabolism/pathology/virology ; },
abstract = {Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is initiated by the viral spike proteins, which are key structural components that mediate host cell binding and entry and alter downstream signaling through multiple interactions with endothelial surface receptors. Endothelial dysfunction is a central consequence of COVID-19, contributing to vascular inflammation, barrier disruption, thrombosis, and multi-organ injury affecting the pulmonary, cardiovascular, cerebral, and renal systems. Emerging evidence demonstrates that spike protein-mediated effects, independent of productive viral infection, disrupt endothelial homeostasis through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) dysregulation, integrin engagement, altered calcium signaling, junctional protein remodeling, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic pathways. This review is intentionally focused on spike (S) protein-driven mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction; pathogenic vascular effects attributed to other SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins, including the nucleocapsid (N) protein, are beyond the scope of this discussion. In this review, we synthesize current experimental and translational data detailing the molecular mechanisms by which the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein drives endothelial dysfunction across multiple organ systems and discuss potential therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving endothelial integrity in acute COVID-19 and its long-term vascular sequela.},
}

Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism
*COVID-19/virology/pathology/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/metabolism
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
Animals
*Endothelium, Vascular/pathology/physiopathology/metabolism/virology
Endothelial Cells/metabolism/pathology/virology

@article {pmid41678250,
year = {2026},
author = {Lebel, RD and Sanders, J and Menges, JI},
title = {Beyond positivity: A review of the functional outcomes of negative emotions at work.},
journal = {Journal of occupational health psychology},
volume = {31},
number = {1},
pages = {1-15},
doi = {10.1037/ocp0000422},
pmid = {41678250},
issn = {1939-1307},
mesh = {Humans ; *Emotions ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; *Workplace/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Organizational scholars examining the effects of emotions on employees generally assume that negative emotions produce negative outcomes. However, a nascent body of research challenges this view, suggesting that negative emotions can help employees navigate work demands arising from disruptive external events. We draw on the COVID-19 pandemic-a salient, prolonged event that stimulated widespread negative emotions-as a theoretically meaningful context to explore when and why negative emotions may yield beneficial outcomes. Specifically, we provide an integrative conceptual review synthesizing research from applied and social psychology conducted during the pandemic that identifies two pathways through which negative emotions produce functional individual-level outcomes at work. The first pathway captures direct effects driven by the unique action tendencies associated with discrete negative emotions. The second pathway, informed by the personality systems interaction theory, highlights contingent effects shaped by self-regulatory factors and external support from leaders, teams, or organizational policies. Our findings challenge and extend discrete emotion and affective shift theories by detailing how and under what conditions negative emotions from disruptive events can have functional outcomes. We bring necessary nuance to prevailing emotion theories and offer practical implications for leaders and organizations seeking to manage negative emotions during the times of hardship. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).},
}

Humans
*Emotions
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
*Workplace/psychology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41678920,
year = {2026},
author = {Ogawa, T and Sunyi, J and Kawachi, K and Murakami, J and Masuta, S and Fukuchi, J and Yoshida, S and Sawanobori, K and Matsukura, Y},
title = {Regulatory approaches for platform-based vaccine development in Japan: Insights from PMDA's experience with COVID-19 and RSV vaccines.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {76},
number = {},
pages = {128315},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128315},
pmid = {41678920},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; Japan/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccine Development/legislation & jurisprudence/methods ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic ; },
abstract = {The concept of a "platform" in vaccine development and regulatory evaluation has emerged as a strategic framework for accelerating responses to infectious disease outbreaks. By leveraging prior knowledge and applying consistent manufacturing and analytical procedures across multiple products-such as mRNA, viral vector and recombinant protein vaccines-platform approaches enable streamlined development and efficient regulatory reviews. This article presents a Japanese regulatory perspective on platform-based vaccine development, drawing on the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA)'s experience with both emergency and routine evaluations. Through case-based analyses of COVID-19 vaccines reviewed under emergency conditions and the subsequent post-pandemic evaluation of RSV vaccines under standard timelines, we illustrate how prior knowledge and regulatory flexibility supported timely and robust reviews. These insights contribute to the global dialogue on regulatory science and offer practical considerations for future vaccine innovation.},
}

Humans
Japan/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccine Development/legislation & jurisprudence/methods
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Vaccines, Synthetic

@article {pmid41678951,
year = {2026},
author = {Lailaturrahmi, L and Caliph, S and Vu, T and Larson, I},
title = {Teaching clinical skills online in pharmacy education: a scoping review.},
journal = {Currents in pharmacy teaching & learning},
volume = {18},
number = {5},
pages = {102607},
doi = {10.1016/j.cptl.2026.102607},
pmid = {41678951},
issn = {1877-1300},
mesh = {Humans ; *Education, Pharmacy/methods/trends ; *Education, Distance/methods/trends ; *Clinical Competence/standards ; Curriculum/trends ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Teaching/standards ; },
abstract = {Background The integration of online teaching and learning in pharmacy curricula has increased since the worldwide rapid transition to remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, how clinical skills were taught online in pharmacy education, including the types of skills, approaches and technologies used, and the outcomes remain poorly understood. Objective To provide an overview of the types of clinical skills taught online in pharmacy education; and to identify the purposes, teaching strategies, technologies used, educational settings, enabling and limiting factors, and reported outcomes to inform future curriculum development in pharmacy education. Methods The scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Scoping Review methodology. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and ERIC databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the records were independently screened by four reviewers. Any discrepancies during the screening process were resolved through discussion. The data were extracted and then analyzed using content analysis and thematic analysis. Results A total of 349 studies were retrieved and proceeded to title and abstract screening. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 152 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, of which sixty-four articles were included in the final review. Online synchronous, asynchronous, and blended learning were implemented in pharmacy education to teach clinical skills, including communication skills and therapeutic decision-making skills. Clinical skills were most often taught online to improve the learning process. Learning outcomes measured by self-assessment or by educators were most commonly reported. Enablers, including institutional readiness and technology infrastructure, and barriers, including institutional unpreparedness and inadequate design, were also identified. Conclusion This scoping review provides guiding information to integrate online teaching and learning into pharmacy curricula, particularly for clinical skills development. By including multiple stakeholders' perspectives, this review offers useful insight for academics and faculty leaders to successfully teach clinical skills online to pharmacy students.},
}

Humans
*Education, Pharmacy/methods/trends
*Education, Distance/methods/trends
*Clinical Competence/standards
Curriculum/trends
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Teaching/standards

@article {pmid41681438,
year = {2026},
author = {Ibrahim, YM and Liu, C and Yu, Y and Yang, L and Chen, Q and Ma, W and Werid, GM and Li, S and Luo, J and Gao, S and Zhang, S and Fu, L and Wang, Y},
title = {Swine Enteric Coronaviruses: An Updated Overview of Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Control.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41681438},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {(cstc2022ycjh-bgzxm0183 and 22509C) and (2024YFHZ0110)//this work was supported by grants from the National Center of Technology Innovation for Pigs (NCTIP-XD/B19); the Chongqing Talent plan "contract system" project (cstc2022ycjh-bgzxm0183 and 22509C); the Sichuan Provincial Regional Innovation Cooperation Pr/ ; },
abstract = {Swine enteric coronaviruses (SECoVs), including transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), and swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), are major enteric pathogens causing severe diarrhea, dehydration, high neonatal mortality, and substantial global economic losses. Rapid viral evolution and recombination continually generate antigenically diverse variants that limit cross-protection and undermine vaccine efficacy, particularly for PEDV genogroup II strains that now dominate worldwide circulation. This review synthesizes current knowledge on epidemiology, diagnostic innovations, and emerging vaccine platforms, with emphasis on advances since 2022. Recent progress includes molecular surveillance tools, rapid point-of-care diagnostics, and next-generation vaccine technologies such as mRNA-based and virus-like particle platforms. However, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding viral evolution dynamics, co-infection synergies, and zoonotic spillover potential, particularly following documented human infections with PDCoV. Effective long-term control requires integrated genomic surveillance, strengthened farm-level biosecurity, rationally designed multivalent vaccines targeting conserved epitopes, and harmonized international surveillance systems to reduce outbreak risk and enhance pandemic preparedness at the human-animal interface.},
}

@article {pmid41682696,
year = {2026},
author = {Grosu, IA and Dobrin, ME and Marginean, C and Esanu, IM and Melinte, OE and Stavarache, IE and Dumitrache-Rujinski, S and Cioroiu, IB and Crisan-Dabija, RA and Vicol, C and Trofor, AC},
title = {Integrated Approach of Hematological Parameters and Glutathione as Predictors of Pulmonary TB Evolution: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41682696},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {In recent decades, the burden of TB has been gradually declining; however, with the emergence of COVID-19 and ongoing political conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, the proper functioning of healthcare services and TB control programs has been jeopardized. Recently, research has emphasized the importance of hematological parameters associated with inflammation, which can be easily analyzed through routine blood tests. Combining these parameters may have predictive value for various diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis and even help monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Since there is no single hematological or inflammatory biomarker that provides precise and dynamic information about the success or failure of treatment, identifying individual markers or sets of biomarkers with higher sensitivity and specificity is essential. This is particularly important since sputum culture conversion at two months remains insufficiently sensitive and microscopy conversion has limited sensitivity and specificity in detecting treatment failure. Also, the analysis of the impact of the standard directly observed treatment, short-course regimen on pathogenic mechanisms also focuses on how it influences the interaction between inflammation and oxidative tissue degradation, by measuring plasma levels of glutathione. Utilizing a combination of hematological, inflammatory, and antioxidant biomarkers offers significant insights into systemic inflammatory responses in pulmonary tuberculosis patients, both before commencing treatment and during the entire duration of antituberculosis therapy. Combining different inflammatory parameters into a multiple biomarker can significantly enhance the accuracy of predicting prognosis and response to antibiotic chemotherapy. Identifying an optimal combination of biomarkers with predictive value is crucial for assessing treatment response and evaluating the effectiveness of anti-TB medication. Rather than developing or testing a composite prediction model, this review summarizes reported performance metrics from individual studies and highlights priorities for future prospective validation of integrated biomarker panels.},
}

@article {pmid41682807,
year = {2026},
author = {Carlini, F and Chiesa, AM and Verzina, M and Sassetti, C and Rigante, D and Esposito, S},
title = {Cutaneous Clues in Kawasaki Disease: Clinical Implications and Differential Diagnosis with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41682807},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) are pediatric inflammatory conditions with overlapping mucocutaneous features that may complicate early diagnosis. We performed a narrative review of the literature to characterize and compare cutaneous manifestations reported in children with KD and MIS-C and to assess their diagnostic relevance. Published studies describing dermatologic findings in patients aged 0-18 years were reviewed. The analysis revealed a broad heterogeneity of skin manifestations in both conditions, ranging from classic polymorphous rash and acral erythema to atypical presentations, including annular, psoriasiform, vesiculobullous, urticarial, and erythema nodosum-like lesions. Reactivation at Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccination sites and associated mucocutaneous findings, such as conjunctivitis and oral changes, emerged as supportive diagnostic clues, particularly for incomplete KD. Considerable overlap in cutaneous phenotypes between KD and MIS-C was observed, especially in patients with persistent fever and systemic inflammation, highlighting the risk of diagnostic delay. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing atypical dermatologic patterns as part of an integrated diagnostic approach, as delayed identification may increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Early recognition of cutaneous clues can support timely initiation of immunomodulatory therapy and improve clinical outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41683451,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Xu, Y and Yang, Y and Zhang, B and Chen, S and Li, Z and Zhu, H and Yang, H and Wang, H and Zhou, Y and Cao, P and Zhai, B and Gong, Y},
title = {Structural Basis and Inhibitor Development of SARS-CoV-2 Papain-like Protease.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41683451},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {KZ202210005001//R&D Program of Beijing Municipal Education Commission/ ; 242102311178//Science and technology project of Henan Province/ ; 252102520079//Henan Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Project/ ; },
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects ; Humans ; *Coronavirus Papain-Like Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry/metabolism ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology ; Ligands ; Binding Sites ; Protein Binding ; },
abstract = {Papain-like protease (PLpro), a crucial functional domain of the SARS-CoV-2 non-structural protein 3 (nsp3), plays a dual role in both hydrolyzing viral polyprotein precursors and modulating host immune responses. These critical functions position PLpro as a key target in the ongoing development of antiviral therapies for SARS-CoV-2. This review analyzes more than 100 PLpro-ligand co-crystal structures and summarizes the major binding modes between these ligands and PLpro. Most of these ligands bind to sites analogous to those targeted by the classical non-covalent inhibitor GRL0617, primarily involving the P3 and P4 subsites and the BL2 loop. Based on these structural insights, optimized inhibitors have expanded targeting beyond the canonical binding site to auxiliary regions such as the BL2 groove and the Val70 site, and in some cases toward the catalytic Cys111 buried within a narrow pocket. Certain ligands identified through various screening approaches bind to non-canonical or allosteric regions, such as the S1 and S2 sites or the zinc-finger domain, engaging PLpro through distinct interaction modes and thereby offering additional opportunities for PLpro inhibitor design. The review also discusses potential strategies for future PLpro inhibitor development informed by recent structural advances. Taken together, these structural and functional insights support ongoing efforts in the structure-guided design and optimization of PLpro inhibitors.},
}

*SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects
Humans
*Coronavirus Papain-Like Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry/metabolism
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology
Ligands
Binding Sites
Protein Binding

@article {pmid41683516,
year = {2026},
author = {Leka, K and Mamede, L and Vandeberg, E and Garigliany, MM and Ledoux, A},
title = {Natural Alkaloids as Antiviral Agents Against RNA Viruses: A Comprehensive and Mechanistic Review.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41683516},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {40009257//Fund for Scientific Research/ ; 40021286//Fund for Scientific Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *Alkaloids/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *RNA Viruses/drug effects ; Animals ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; RNA Virus Infections/drug therapy ; *Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses pose a persistent global threat due to their high mutation rates, zoonotic potential, and rapid adaptability. Emergence events have risen steadily, as demonstrated by major outbreaks caused by Influenza A, Ebola, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses, followed by the coronavirus epidemics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and culminating in the COVID-19 pandemic. These characteristics frequently compromise the durability of existing vaccines and antiviral therapies, highlighting the urgent need for new antiviral agents. Alkaloids, a structurally diverse class of nitrogen-containing natural compounds, have gained attention for their ability to interfere with multiple stages of the viral life cycle, including entry, replication, protein synthesis, and host immune modulation. To our knowledge, this review compiles all currently reported alkaloids with antiviral activity against RNA viruses and summarizes their proposed mechanisms of action, distinguishing evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies. Quaternary alkaloids are discussed separately because their permanent ionic charge enables distinctive interactions with membranes and host pathways. Although many findings are promising, clinical translation remains limited by incomplete mechanistic validation, scarce in vivo data, suboptimal bioavailability, narrow therapeutic windows, and inconsistent experimental methodologies. To advance the field, future research should prioritize RT-qPCR-based antiviral evaluation to accurately quantify viral replication, incorporate mechanistic assays to clarify modes of action, apply structure-activity relationship (SAR) approaches for rational optimization, and expand in vivo pharmacokinetic and efficacy studies to assess therapeutic feasibility. Overall, alkaloids represent a promising yet underdeveloped reservoir for next-generation antiviral discovery against rapidly evolving RNA viruses.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
*Alkaloids/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Humans
*RNA Viruses/drug effects
Animals
Virus Replication/drug effects
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
RNA Virus Infections/drug therapy
*Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry

@article {pmid41683812,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahajan, S and Mahajan, S and Gusain, A},
title = {Interleukins in COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Immunopathogenesis, Therapeutic Perspectives and Vaccine-Induced Immune Responses.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41683812},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology/therapy/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Interleukins/immunology/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; },
abstract = {The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is characterized by profound immune dysregulation where interleukins play a central role in determining disease severity and response to interventions. This review summarizes the role of interleukins in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19, with particular emphasis on differences observed across major SARS-CoV-2 variants. Pro-inflammatory interleukins like IL-1β, IL-6, IL-2, IL-17 and IL-18 are critically involved in cytokine storm, hyperinflammation, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 contribute to immune regulation and resolution of inflammation. Elevated levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-8, IL-9, IL-16, IL-18 have been documented in the Delta variant as compared with the Omicron variant, with IL-6 being the most frequent interleukin reported to be increased across all SARS-CoV-2 variants relative to the ancestral Wuhan strain. Elevated IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 levels have been associated with Omicron sub-variants. The review encompasses interleukin-based therapeutic strategies, where several IL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors were studied across clinical trials, but only tocilizumab has shown some promise against severe COVID-19. IL-2, IL-6, IL-15 and IL-21 levels were positively correlated with IgG and neutralizing antibody activity after vaccination with longevity of post-vaccination immunity being determined by IL-2 and IL-7.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology/therapy/pathology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*Interleukins/immunology/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors

@article {pmid41683839,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, JJ and Hsu, CW and Wang, HY and Stubbs, B and Chen, TY and Liang, CS and Chen, YW and Zeng, BS and Tseng, PT},
title = {Audiovestibular Dysfunction Related to Long COVID-19 Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Characteristics, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41683839},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology/diagnosis ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vestibular Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/physiopathology/etiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Long COVID-19 syndrome (or so-called post-COVID-19) is indicated by miscellaneous symptoms, usually starting 3 months from the COVID-19 infection and lasting for at least 2 months, which cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. There has been more and more reports addressing the audiovestibular dysfunction related to long COVID-19 syndrome. Emerging evidence suggests that the linkage between audiovestibular dysfunction and long COVID-19 syndrome might rely on (a) direct inner ear system damage related to viral invasion and consequent inflammation, (b) micro thromboembolic events, which might result from the COVID-19-induced autoimmune reaction against endothelial cells, and consequent transient-ischemia and hypoxia of the auditory pathways, (c) the disturbed nerve conduction in vestibulocochlear nerves due to viral invasion, and finally (d) altered auditory cortex function, either imbalanced central gain or neurotransmitter disturbance. However, most of the aforementioned mechanism remained hypothetic and still needed further studies to approve or refute. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on the characteristics, pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, and management of audiovestibular dysfunction related to long COVID-19 syndrome. Literature searches across PubMed, Embase, ClinicalKey, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect (up to 15 December 2025) were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Through this systematic review, we provided a schematic diagram of the physiopathology of long COVID-19 syndrome-related audiovestibular dysfunction. Further, we summarized the currently available diagnostic tools to explore the audiovestibular function in such patients. The currently available treatment, either pharmacotherapy or nonpharmacotherapy, mainly tackles idiopathic audiovestibular dysfunction but not specifically long COVID-19 syndrome-related audiovestibular dysfunction. Timely recognition and intervention may prevent progression to permanent hearing loss or vestibular disability, improving quality of life. Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD420251265741.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology/diagnosis
SARS-CoV-2
*Vestibular Diseases/diagnosis/therapy/physiopathology/etiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41684026,
year = {2026},
author = {Oh, H and Thi Thuy Tien, V and Ahmed, S and Choi, J and Ryu, KJ and Yang, J},
title = {Host Glycan-Lectin Interplay in SARS-CoV-2 Infection.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41684026},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {RS-2023-00219399//National Research Foundation of Korea/ ; RS-2025-02214302//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Polysaccharides/metabolism/chemistry ; SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; *COVID-19/virology/metabolism ; *Lectins/metabolism/chemistry ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/chemistry ; Virus Internalization ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Virus Attachment ; Receptors, Virus/metabolism ; *Betacoronavirus/physiology/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Glycan-mediated processes can be critical determinants of viral attachment and entry, yet for enveloped RNA viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, their mechanistic roles remain incompletely defined. This review synthesizes current structural and functional evidence for glycan engagement during SARS-CoV-2 attachment and entry. We describe the general viral entry pathways and their reliance on glycan recognition, followed by the interactions of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein with host glycans, including ABO(H) blood group antigens, sialylated glycans, and endogenous lectins. Based on structural biology, glycobiology, and virology, we focus on how the spike protein exploits both glycan motifs and lectin receptors to enhance attachment, promote cellular uptake, or modulate host tropism. We contextualize these mechanisms by comparing glycan dependencies across other human viruses, including the influenza virus, HIV, and norovirus. Finally, we provide a comparative virological perspective to derive broad evolutionary insights into how enveloped viruses exploit the host glycans.},
}

Humans
*Polysaccharides/metabolism/chemistry
SARS-CoV-2/physiology
*COVID-19/virology/metabolism
*Lectins/metabolism/chemistry
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/metabolism/chemistry
Virus Internalization
Host-Pathogen Interactions
Virus Attachment
Receptors, Virus/metabolism
*Betacoronavirus/physiology/metabolism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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