@article {pmid41854286,
year = {2026},
author = {Phukuntsi, MA and Monyama, MC and Taioe, MO and Tsotetsi-Khambule, AM},
title = {A systematic review of experimental evidence on microbial pathogen transmission by Stomoxys spp.},
journal = {Parasite (Paris, France)},
volume = {33},
number = {},
pages = {13},
pmid = {41854286},
issn = {1776-1042},
mesh = {Animals ; *Insect Vectors/microbiology/virology ; *Muscidae/microbiology/virology ; Camelus/parasitology ; Humans ; Mammals/parasitology ; },
abstract = {Vector-borne microbial pathogens previously isolated from Stomoxys spp. are currently considered to be emerging or re-emerging threats to public health and the veterinary sector. Transmission of pathogens by flies in the Stomoxys genus is largely mechanical, indicating that they can transmit a wide range of pathogens to a variety of hosts. This study evaluated the diversity of pathogens demonstrably transmitted by a variety of Stomoxys flies, concerning species diversity, host diversity, and geographic distribution. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were applied to screen studies based on pathogen type, host species, and experimental transmission outcomes. Journal articles published from 1973 to 2025 were sourced from six electronic databases. After evaluation, 30 studies were eligible for this review. Of these studies, 20% (6/30) reported negative outcomes. Three pathogens (Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, Neorickettsia risticii, and Escherichia coli) were not transmitted by the flies in the experiments. Stomoxys spp. transmitted pathogens to a wide range of hosts (9 mammals) and substrates (blood and tissue culture), but the recorded experiments in camels failed. Three out of ten Stomoxys spp. reported in the studies (S. transvittatus, S. inornatus, and S. omega) failed to transmit pathogens in all attempts. The majority of experimental studies were on S. calcitrans, with very limited studies on other Stomoxys species, highlighting the dearth of information on other species occurring in Africa and Asia. Our study has consolidated the evidence regarding the experimental pathogen transmission by Stomoxys spp., highlighting and demonstrating their epidemiological significance and the need for surveillance and control/prevention strategies.},
}

Animals
*Insect Vectors/microbiology/virology
*Muscidae/microbiology/virology
Camelus/parasitology
Humans
Mammals/parasitology

@article {pmid41854333,
year = {2026},
author = {Ronco, I and Horvat, B},
title = {Role of myeloid cells expressing CD169/Siglec-1 in host-pathogen interactions.},
journal = {FEMS microbiology reviews},
volume = {50},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41854333},
issn = {1574-6976},
support = {101057302//Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale/ ; //DGA/ ; },
mesh = {*Sialic Acid Binding Ig-like Lectin 1/immunology/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology ; *Myeloid Cells/immunology/metabolism/virology ; Animals ; Virus Diseases/immunology ; },
abstract = {CD169/Siglec-1 is a type-I transmembrane lectin receptor expressed on subcapsular sinus macrophages and activated monocytes, which plays a key role in innate immune surveillance and orchestration of adaptive immunity. As a sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like lectin (Siglec), CD169 recognizes sialylated gangliosides and glycoconjugates present on surface of several viral envelopes, including HIV-1, SARS-CoV-2, and Ebola virus as well as sialylated bacterial capsules such as those of Neisseria meningitidis and Campylobacter jejuni. Moreover, different viruses were shown to be captured by CD169+ cells which could play distinctive role during infections: they could enhance efficient immune responses, but also facilitate pathogen dissemination through viral capture and transfer to permissive cells. This last mechanism has been well documented for HIV-1, where CD169 mediates viral trans-infection of CD4[+] T-cells. CD169 expression is rapidly induced by type-I interferons during acute viral infections and has emerged as a valuable biomarker to distinguish viral from bacterial infection, particularly for COVID-19 and influenza. Detectable by flow cytometry, CD169 represents a solid biomarker in clinical settings and possible target in the development of novel prophylactic and therapeutic strategies. Its dual role, protective in host defence yet exploitable by certain pathogens, highlights the need for careful consideration in future therapeutic approaches.},
}

*Sialic Acid Binding Ig-like Lectin 1/immunology/metabolism/genetics
Humans
*Host-Pathogen Interactions/immunology
*Myeloid Cells/immunology/metabolism/virology
Animals
Virus Diseases/immunology

@article {pmid41855953,
year = {2026},
author = {Tantum, L and Anderson, DM and Jones, EP and Cronk, R},
title = {Mapping the evidence on environmental health services in healthcare facilities in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic literature inventory of over 4,000 studies.},
journal = {International journal of hygiene and environmental health},
volume = {274},
number = {},
pages = {114786},
pmid = {41855953},
issn = {1618-131X},
support = {T32 ES007018/ES/NIEHS NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {*Developing Countries ; Humans ; *Health Facilities ; *Environmental Health ; Sanitation ; Evidence Gaps ; Hygiene ; COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Resource-Limited Settings ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Environmental health services in healthcare facilities-including water, sanitation, hygiene, waste management, cleaning, and infection control-prevent disease and strengthen healthcare delivery. Yet environmental health services are inadequate in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Despite the importance of monitoring and improving services, no comprehensive evidence map exists to describe knowledge and gaps for action. The study objective was to comprehensively catalog published literature on environmental health services in healthcare facilities in LMICs by service domain, study type, and relevance to policy and practice.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature search in 2023 and updated it in 2025. After performing database searches, we used a machine learning process to prioritize studies for manual title-abstract screening. Through a title/abstract tagging process, we developed a literature inventory that categorized studies by topic, design, and relevance to policy and practice objectives.

RESULTS: The literature inventory included 4381 studies. Fifty-eight percent of the studies were baseline assessments of environmental health services, 36% involved formative research (e.g., qualitative methods), and 13% evaluated interventions or implementation strategies. Most studies (62%) examined hygiene at points of care, while 9% examined water and 6% sanitation. Twenty-seven percent of studies examined services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: There is little evidence for effective interventions and implementation strategies to improve and sustain environmental health services, especially for water and sanitation services. Formative research on under-studied services can help policymakers set investment priorities. Findings can inform the development of research agendas and practical guidelines for improving access to safe healthcare environments.},
}

*Developing Countries
Humans
*Health Facilities
*Environmental Health
Sanitation
Evidence Gaps
Hygiene
COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Resource-Limited Settings

@article {pmid41856071,
year = {2026},
author = {Chelan, EM and Parhizkar, A and Nemati, M and Kiani, J and Almassian, B and Moghaddam, HG and Zarebkohan, A and Pourseif, MM},
title = {Targeted cytosolic delivery of mRNA immunotherapeutics: From vaccine delivery to protein replacement.},
journal = {Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie},
volume = {198},
number = {},
pages = {119181},
doi = {10.1016/j.biopha.2026.119181},
pmid = {41856071},
issn = {1950-6007},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *RNA, Messenger/administration & dosage ; *Cytosol/metabolism ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; *mRNA Vaccines/administration & dosage ; COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Drug Delivery Systems/methods ; },
abstract = {The advent of mRNA-based immunotherapeutics has fundamentally changed the nature of modern medicine. Although mRNA therapeutics initially developed to enhance vaccination platforms, they have rapidly expanded into gene editing and protein replacement applications. The rapid development and global deployment of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the versatility and clinical potential of this modality and enabled swift progresses to infectious diseases and genetic disorders. mRNA work by exploiting the ability of the host cell system to produce desired proteins, however, clinical translation of mRNA immunotherapeutics remains constrained by challenges such as intrinsic instability, limited cellular uptake, inefficient endosomal escape, and suboptimal protein expression. Nanotechnology-based delivery systems have partially addressed these barriers over the past two decades and enabeled improved protection, targeting, and intracellular release. In this review, we conceptualize targeted mRNA delivery as a multistep process defined by Circulation-Internalization-Endosomal Escape-Expression (CIEE). We examine advances in systemic biodistribution control, organ-specific targeting, and precision delivery to antigen-presenting cells (APCs), and we discuss emerging strategies to optimize cytosolic transfection efficiency in immunotherapeutic applications. Advanced targeting strategies from organ-level biodistribution to cellular-level precision targeting of APCs are elucidated in details. From all the above, it follows that a solid knowledge in molecular biology, nanotechnology, and immunology is required for fine-tuned immunotherapeutic design. The current review attempt to serve as a reference to further advance optimizing targeted delivery of mRNA Immunotherapeutics.},
}

Humans
Animals
*RNA, Messenger/administration & dosage
*Cytosol/metabolism
*COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
*Immunotherapy/methods
*mRNA Vaccines/administration & dosage
COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Drug Delivery Systems/methods

@article {pmid41856461,
year = {2026},
author = {Farokhnia, A and Faro, LK and Tian, Y and Frischknecht, L and Eimer, J and Brosh-Nissimov, T and Nilsson, J},
title = {Extended nirmatrelvir-ritonavir for persistent COVID-19: Systematic review with individual patient data.},
journal = {International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases},
volume = {167},
number = {},
pages = {108558},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijid.2026.108558},
pmid = {41856461},
issn = {1878-3511},
mesh = {Humans ; *Ritonavir/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 ; Middle Aged ; Immunocompromised Host ; Female ; Treatment Outcome ; Male ; Aged ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To summarize individual patient data (IPD) on extended-duration nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (NMV-r) for persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in immunocompromised adults and describe outcomes by regimen.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review with IPD synthesis (PRISMA-IPD; PROSPERO CRD42025642455), searching databases through December 2025 and restricting eligible reports to January 1, 2022, through December 31, 2025 (Omicron-era focus). IPD were obtained for 39 patients from four low-risk-of-bias cohort studies (n = 30) and institutional cases (n = 9) meeting predefined criteria for persistent infection. We summarized outcomes after last-line extended NMV-r and report exploratory, unadjusted subgroup descriptions for monotherapy (n = 27) and combination regimens (n = 12).

RESULTS: Median age was 63 years. Patients had prolonged viral replication (median 58 days) before receiving extended NMV-r (median 10 days). Persistent infection after last-line extended therapy occurred in 5/38 (13.2%) evaluable patients. Persistence was observed in 2/26 (7.7%) evaluable monotherapy and 3/12 (25.0%) combination-therapy recipients; because regimen selection was nonrandom and baseline risk differed between groups, these subgroup proportions are descriptive and should not be interpreted as comparative effectiveness. All-cause mortality and adverse events (AEs) were rare (each 1/39; 2.6%).

CONCLUSION: In this selected observational IPD cohort, clearance after last-line extended NMV-r-containing therapy was commonly reported, and serious AEs were uncommon. Comparative inferences are limited by small sample size, imprecision, and confounding by indication; prospective studies are needed. PROSPERO registration CRD42025642455.},
}

Humans
*Ritonavir/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
COVID-19
Middle Aged
Immunocompromised Host
Female
Treatment Outcome
Male
Aged

@article {pmid41856882,
year = {2026},
author = {Malewana, RD and Corbett-Helaire, KS},
title = {The dual-adjuvant logic of mRNA vaccines.},
journal = {Trends in immunology},
volume = {47},
number = {4},
pages = {243-245},
doi = {10.1016/j.it.2026.01.012},
pmid = {41856882},
issn = {1471-4981},
mesh = {*Adjuvants, Vaccine ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Humans ; *Immunity, Humoral ; Animals ; *Nanovaccines/immunology ; },
abstract = {Deciphering how mRNA vaccines generate humoral immunity could accelerate next-generation vaccine design. Castaño et al. reveal that mRNA-lipid nanoparticle vaccines employ a dual-adjuvant mechanism: nucleoside-modified mRNA triggers type I interferons to mature dendritic cells, while lipid nanoparticles induce a pro-T follicular helper cell program, together promoting robust germinal center responses.},
}

*Adjuvants, Vaccine
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Humans
*Immunity, Humoral
Animals
*Nanovaccines/immunology

@article {pmid41857693,
year = {2026},
author = {Williams, BA and Fitzsimmons, PM and Lewis, LM and Tornos, J and Kimmel, L and True, JM and Siwik, PJ and Ryall, M and Mullett, K},
title = {The 100 Days Mission: a perspective on accelerating vaccine manufacturing for future pandemics.},
journal = {BMC global and public health},
volume = {4},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41857693},
issn = {2731-913X},
abstract = {The "100 Days Mission" aims to compress the timeline for delivering safe and effective vaccines in response to future pandemics. Here, we present insights from Pfizer leaders involved in the COVID-19 vaccine effort on key enablers for rapid large-scale manufacture of pandemic vaccines to achieve this ambitious goal. For pharmaceutical companies, these enablers include robust governance models, secure supply chains, innovative production strategies, and maintained "warm" manufacturing capacity. Additionally, we examine the crucial role of government support through regulatory harmonization, enhanced global surveillance, and improved logistics. By addressing these critical factors, the global community can better prepare for rapid vaccine manufacturing in response to future pandemic threats.},
}

@article {pmid41857720,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, H and Guo, Z and Peng, Q},
title = {Prevalence of sleep disturbance among chinese college students: an updated meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC psychiatry},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41857720},
issn = {1471-244X},
support = {sztsjh-2024-8-11//Anhui Provincial Department of Education 2024 Comprehensive Education and Ideological-Political Capacity Enhancement Project: "Ying Shan Hong" Counselor Master Teacher Studio/ ; 2025AHGXSK30457//Anhui Provincial Department of Education 2025 Key Humanities and Social Sciences Project for Higher Education Institutions: Coupling Mechanisms and Optimization Pathways for Cultivating a Sense of Community for the Chinese Nation through Cultural and Museum Research and Study under the Perspective of Cultural Embedding: An Empirical Study Based on Anhui-Xinjiang Practices/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sleep disturbance is common among college students. However, the prevalence and associated factors among Chinese college students require an updated synthesis. This study aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of sleep disturbance in this population and to examine potential sources of between-study variation.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in four Chinese databases (CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and Sinomed) and five international databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO) from inception to December 22, 2025. The study protocol was pre-registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251270413). Cross-sectional studies reporting sleep disturbance among Chinese college students assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index were included, with no restrictions on cut-off thresholds. Recall timeframes included the past month, 1–2 weeks, or several months. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to pool prevalence estimates with 95% confidence intervals, and a 95% prediction interval was additionally reported for the overall pooled estimate to reflect between-study heterogeneity. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore methodological and population-level factors, and between-group differences were tested using chi-square statistics.

RESULTS: A total of 232 studies involving 495,641 undergraduate students were included. The pooled prevalence of sleep disturbance was 26.4% (95% confidence interval: 24.6% to 28.3%, 95% prediction interval: 7.4% to 59.1%), with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 99.57%). Methodological factors were significantly associated with prevalence estimates, particularly the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index cut-off score and the recall timeframe (both P < 0.001). Prevalence was highest during the COVID-19 pandemic (33.5%), compared with the pre-pandemic period (24.1%) and the post-pandemic period (21.0%) (P = 0.001). Higher pooled estimates were observed in more recent publication periods, increasing from 22.9% in 2014 and earlier to 28.7% in 2020 and later (P = 0.018). No statistically significant differences were identified across gender, academic year, major, region, or only-child status. Higher prevalence was observed among smokers, drinkers, and students reporting poorer family economic status, although these differences did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS: Sleep disturbance, as defined by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, is prevalent among Chinese college students. Estimates should be interpreted cautiously because of extreme heterogeneity and reliance on self-reported, predominantly cross-sectional data. The findings underscore the public health relevance of sleep health on campuses and support continued monitoring and health promotion, as well as more standardized measurement in future studies.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12888-026-07997-z.},
}

@article {pmid41858416,
year = {2026},
author = {Sinuraya, RK and Suwantika, AA and Puspitasari, IM},
title = {Strengthening Health Systems to Overcome Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Indonesia: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Risk management and healthcare policy},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {564998},
pmid = {41858416},
issn = {1179-1594},
abstract = {Respiratory infectious diseases (RIDs) remain a persistent public health challenge in Indonesia, a vast archipelago with complex healthcare delivery and marked regional inequities. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical weaknesses in the country's surveillance systems, diagnostic capacity, and outbreak response, underscoring the urgent need for stronger pandemic preparedness and a transition from a reactive, crisis-driven model to a proactive, prevention-focused health system. This study synthesizes existing literature, policy documents, and recent evaluation reports to assess Indonesia's health system performance in RID management and to identify evidence-based priorities for reform. The analysis is structured around five health system components: (1) surveillance and early warning, (2) diagnostic and laboratory capacity, (3) healthcare workforce, (4) public health infrastructure and primary care, and (5) governance and financing. Indonesia demonstrates important strengths, including a nationwide network of more than 10,000 Primary Health Centers (Puskesmas) and proven vaccination campaign capacity. However, significant gaps persist: during COVID-19, Early Warning Alert and Response System (EWARS) reporting completeness dropped from 75% to 53%, rural and remote areas remain underserved by diagnostics, and health workforce distribution continues to be inequitable Priority reforms include scaling up point-of-care diagnostics across all Puskesmas, integrating fragmented surveillance platforms through SatuSehat, empowering community health workers with digital tools, and ensuring sustainable financing for preparedness. Medium-term strategies focus on workforce redistribution and the establishment of regional health security centers, while long-term priorities emphasize predictive health intelligence, resilient supply chains, and nationwide facility upgrades. Building a resilient, prevention-oriented system will require sustained political commitment, innovative financing, and cross-sectoral collaboration, positioning Indonesia not only to strengthen domestic health security but also to serve as a regional leader in epidemic preparedness.},
}

@article {pmid41859113,
year = {2026},
author = {Devine, J and Jacobs, B and Leroux-Roels, I and Leroux-Roels, G and van der Most, R},
title = {Infection, vaccination and risk of dementia: a proposed immunological model.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1748535},
pmid = {41859113},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Dementia/immunology/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Vaccination ; Animals ; *Models, Immunological ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Trained Immunity ; Immunity, Innate ; Risk Factors ; BCG Vaccine/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology ; },
abstract = {With ageing populations, the prevalence of different types of dementias is increasing. The pathology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia, has been linked to the presence of plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the central nervous system of patients. There are growing indications that risk of developing dementia correlates with several infectious agents, including human herpes viruses, flaviviruses and SARS-CoV-2. This has led to a proposition that AD and other dementias could be considered as having an infectious disease etiology. Whilst the mechanisms behind this remain unclear, intriguing epidemiological data suggest that several vaccinations are correlated with reduced risk for dementia. Intravesicular administration of the tuberculosis vaccine strain Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) has been associated with decreased risk of dementia in bladder cancer patients. This has led to the hypothesis that non-specific effects of vaccinations, mediated through trained innate immunity, provide a mechanistic explanation. Over the last few years, the AS01-adjuvanted recombinant shingles vaccine has also been associated with reduced risk in several studies. Moreover, in a recent study, immunization with the adjuvanted RSV vaccine, also containing AS01, was shown to reduce risk of dementia. Integrating data on BCG and mechanistic hypotheses, recent findings on the AS01 adjuvant, and the role of trained innate immunity, we describe here an immunological model that connects vaccine and adjuvant mode of action with risk of dementia. This immunological model can help shape a research roadmap to further elucidate the mechanisms behind the collective epidemiological data.},
}

Humans
*Dementia/immunology/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Vaccination
Animals
*Models, Immunological
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Trained Immunity
Immunity, Innate
Risk Factors
BCG Vaccine/immunology
COVID-19/immunology

@article {pmid41859255,
year = {2026},
author = {Presa, J and Spitz, D and Balmer, P and Snow, V and Dooling, K},
title = {Epidemiology of invasive meningococcal disease in the United States: review of recent data and identified risk factors.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1694023},
pmid = {41859255},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; United States/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; *Meningococcal Infections/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Male ; Child ; Adolescent ; Infant ; Child, Preschool ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Adult ; Female ; Young Adult ; Middle Aged ; Population Surveillance ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Tracking the spread of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) in the United States is important for identifying risk factors and devising public health strategies to prevent infection.

METHODS: The epidemiology of IMD in the United States before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic (2016-2024) was assessed using surveillance data from the National Notifiable Diseases Surveillance System (NNDSS) and the Enhanced Meningococcal Disease Surveillance program (EMDS).

RESULTS: IMD case numbers declined during the pandemic (2020-2021) to 208 in 2021 but rebounded to 312 in 2022 and have continued to increase through 2024 (provisionally 477 cases). In 2022, serogroup C was the predominant serogroup (107 cases), followed by serogroup B (61 cases). Except during the pandemic, IMD cases were higher among those attending versus not attending college. During and after the pandemic, groups with the highest IMD incidence were those <1 year of age (range, 0.38-0.56 cases per 100,000 persons) and within the Black population (range, 0.09-0.19 cases per 100,000 persons). The percentage of IMD cases occurring after the pandemic in men who have sex with men and those with HIV increased substantially from during the pandemic. The percentage of IMD cases that occurred among people experiencing homelessness (PEH) was relatively high, ranging from 2.4-6.3%.

CONCLUSION: The data indicate a rebound in IMD after the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the importance of strengthening surveillance and vaccination among high-risk populations.},
}

Humans
United States/epidemiology
Risk Factors
*Meningococcal Infections/epidemiology
Incidence
Male
Child
Adolescent
Infant
Child, Preschool
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Adult
Female
Young Adult
Middle Aged
Population Surveillance

@article {pmid41860005,
year = {2026},
author = {Zou, H and An, WT and Huang, SL and Luo, G and Mu, ZP},
title = {Advances in the application of natural bioactive compounds for the prevention and control of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus via the oxidative stress pathway.},
journal = {Polish journal of veterinary sciences},
volume = {29},
number = {1},
pages = {165-174},
doi = {10.24425/pjvs.2026.158513},
pmid = {41860005},
issn = {2300-2557},
mesh = {Animals ; *Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus ; *Swine Diseases/prevention & control/virology ; Swine ; *Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; *Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/prevention & control ; Antioxidants ; },
abstract = {The porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) represents a critical challenge to the global swine industry due to its profound adverse effects on pig health and production efficiency. A key pathological outcome of PEDV infection is the induction of oxidative stress, which significantly exacerbates intestinal injury and accelerates disease progression. Natural bioactive compounds, sourced from plants, animals, and microorganisms, have been extensively studied for their diverse biological properties, including potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activities. These compounds demonstrate significant potential in alleviating oxidative stress and playing a pivotal role in the prevention and management of PEDV infections. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms by which natural bioactive compounds enhance the antioxidant defence system and suppress PEDV replication. Current evidence indicates that these compounds alleviate oxidative stress primarily through the modulation of antioxidant enzyme systems, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and the activation of key signalling pathways, including the Nrf2/ARE axis. These actions collectively contribute to reduced viral loads and improved health outcomes in PEDV-infected pigs. Although these findings underscore the potential of natural bioactive compounds, several critical challenges persist, particularly the incomplete elucidation of their mechanisms of action and the substantial costs associated with large-scale applications. Addressing these challenges necessitates further research aimed at uncovering the precise molecular pathways underlying their effects and developing cost-effective strategies to facilitate their practical implementation in the swine industry.},
}

Animals
*Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus
*Swine Diseases/prevention & control/virology
Swine
*Oxidative Stress/drug effects
*Coronavirus Infections/veterinary/prevention & control
Antioxidants

@article {pmid41860269,
year = {2026},
author = {Slama Schwok, A},
title = {[Post-COVID neurological sequelae, proposed mechanisms and therapeutic approaches].},
journal = {Medecine sciences : M/S},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {280-289},
doi = {10.1051/medsci/2026036},
pmid = {41860269},
issn = {1958-5381},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Nervous System Diseases/therapy/etiology/epidemiology/virology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications/therapy/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/complications/therapy ; *Betacoronavirus ; Neuroinflammatory Diseases/etiology/therapy ; Adult ; },
abstract = {Approximately 5 % of patients suffer from the sequelae of the COVID-19 pandemics, representing a considerable number of individuals, often young or middle-aged working adults (18-50 years). Among them, women are disproportionately affected. The most common neurological symptoms include persistent cognitive impairment, known as "brain fog", chronic fatigue syndrome, inflammation of the nervous system (motor or autonomous), anxiety and depression, all of which significantly reduce patients' quality of life. There is therefore an urgent societal need to identify appropriate treatments based on a clear understanding of the underlying pathological mechanisms. This review describes the state of the art in Long neuro-COVID, with an emphasis on neuroinflammation, alteration of neurotransmission, and immune, endothelial and microvascular dysfunctions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Nervous System Diseases/therapy/etiology/epidemiology/virology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/complications/therapy/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/complications/therapy
*Betacoronavirus
Neuroinflammatory Diseases/etiology/therapy
Adult

@article {pmid41860271,
year = {2026},
author = {Cracowski, JL and Molimard, M and Richard, V and Roustit, M and Khouri, C},
title = {[Assessing the risk-benefit balance of medicines: Some lessons from Covid-19].},
journal = {Medecine sciences : M/S},
volume = {42},
number = {3},
pages = {295-305},
doi = {10.1051/medsci/2026040},
pmid = {41860271},
issn = {1958-5381},
mesh = {Humans ; Pharmacovigilance ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Risk Assessment/methods ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions/epidemiology ; Pharmacoepidemiology/methods ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Drug Interactions ; },
abstract = {The efficacy of medications is evaluated by clinical trials. However, such trials are not designed to assess adverse effects, particularly when those are rare. A robust pharmacovigilance system is therefore required to assess risks, supplemented as requested by pharmacoepidemiology studies. The benefits of medications are expressed in either relative or absolute terms and they vary depending on the baseline risk of the disease (its severity, potential complications, progression, and its incidence for the population-level benefits). This is not the case for adverse effects, which are influenced by the drug characteristics and the population receiving the treatment. In this context, can we truly balance the benefits and risks of medications? The experience of Covid-19 illustrates the complexity of this concept. It clearly highlights the need for a comprehensive approach, integrating analysis of clinical trials, pharmacovigilance monitoring, pharmacoepidemiology studies, and the detection of potential drug interactions. Finally, it is essential to inform and educate the general public about medications. This empowers individuals to accurately understand the complex concept of benefit-risk balance, prevents misleading over simplifications, and helps effectively counter misinformation.},
}

Humans
Pharmacovigilance
COVID-19/epidemiology
Risk Assessment/methods
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions/epidemiology
Pharmacoepidemiology/methods
Clinical Trials as Topic
SARS-CoV-2
Drug Interactions

@article {pmid41860319,
year = {2026},
author = {Kortz, TB and Hidalgo, JL and Akech, SO and Myatra, SN and Maves, RC and Perez-Fernandez, J and Acharya, SP and Coopersmith, CM and Jacob, ST and Johnston, C and Kissoon, N and Machado, FR and Molyneux, E and Morrow, BM and Pérez Cornejo, MS and Permpikul, C and Piyavechviratana, K and Rhodes, A and Ulisubisya, MM and Kumar, VK and Patel, H and Woznica, D and Nadkarni, VM},
title = {10 Steps to Improve Sepsis Care in Low-Resource Settings.},
journal = {Critical care medicine},
volume = {54},
number = {4},
pages = {939-949},
doi = {10.1097/CCM.0000000000007090},
pmid = {41860319},
issn = {1530-0293},
mesh = {Humans ; *Resource-Limited Settings ; *Sepsis/therapy/prevention & control/diagnosis ; *Quality Improvement/organization & administration ; Critical Care/standards ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Consensus ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To develop a practical consensus-based framework for 10 steps to improve sepsis care in low-resource settings (LRSs), aligned with the sepsis chain of survival and informed by global expertise.

DATA SOURCES: We reviewed peer-reviewed literature on sepsis epidemiology, prevention, recognition, and management in LRS; international guidelines, including the Surviving Sepsis Campaign; and prior "10-step" consensus frameworks for resuscitation and emergency care.

STUDY SELECTION: A Task Force representing adult and pediatric sepsis care, emergency care, critical care, infectious diseases, public health, and implementation science identified key domains from the above data sources.

DATA EXTRACTION: With guidance from methodologists and implementation science experts, we utilized an iterative, consensus-based process-literature review, Delphi survey, Utstein-style conference, stakeholder input, and public comment-to first define and then refine steps and implementation strategies.

DATA SYNTHESIS: The process resulted in 10 nonsequential, actionable steps covering governance and commodities, provider and caregiver education, community and facility prevention, early recognition and rapid response, timely guideline-based interventions, structured post-sepsis care, data systems, quality improvement, a culture of excellence and respect, and holistic well-being of patients, caregivers, and providers. Each step includes a rationale and potential implementation strategies adaptable to local resources and needs. Collectively, the ten steps emphasize integration across the continuum of care, equitable access to essential interventions, and the role of emerging technologies to prevent, recognize, monitor, and follow-up sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS: The 10 steps provide a consensus-driven roadmap for health leaders, clinicians, and policymakers to improve sepsis care, strengthen the sepsis chain of survival, reduce preventable morbidity and mortality, and address global inequities in sepsis outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Resource-Limited Settings
*Sepsis/therapy/prevention & control/diagnosis
*Quality Improvement/organization & administration
Critical Care/standards
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Consensus

@article {pmid41860328,
year = {2026},
author = {Myatra, SN and Boyer, KM and Hidalgo, JL and Maves, RC and Acharya, SP and Jacob, ST and Kortz, TB and Nadkarni, VM and Pérez Cornejo, MS and Perez-Fernandez, J and Johnston, C and Machado, FR and Morrow, BM and Coopersmith, CM and Kissoon, N and Molyneux, E and Permpikul, C and Piyavechviratana, K and Rhodes, A and Ulisubisya, MM and Kumar, VK and Patel, H and Woznica, D and Akech, SO},
title = {Gaps and Strategies for Management of Sepsis in Low-Resource Settings: Expert Consensus Statements Using a Delphi Method.},
journal = {Critical care medicine},
volume = {54},
number = {5},
pages = {1209-1224},
doi = {10.1097/CCM.0000000000007102},
pmid = {41860328},
issn = {1530-0293},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sepsis/therapy/diagnosis/prevention & control ; Resource-Limited Settings ; Delphi Technique ; Developing Countries ; Consensus ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Almost 80% of sepsis cases occur in low-resource settings (LRS), where limited resources impede the effective implementation of international guidelines for sepsis management. In addition, existing sepsis guidelines have not fully addressed specific issues relevant to LRS. Therefore, an international panel of 20 multiprofessional sepsis experts was convened to generate consensus on the gaps in and strategies for sepsis care in LRS. The recently developed "sepsis chain of survival" was used as a framework.

DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, Embase.

STUDY SELECTION: Studies selected included human studies (clinical trials, cohort, case-control, and case series) reporting clinical outcomes in patients with sepsis from LRS between January 1, 2000, and July 4, 2024. Search terms included "developing countries," "LMIC," "resource-poor settings," and regional terms such as Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The Delphi process involved iterative, anonymous voting by the expert panel to achieve consensus to draft clinical practice statements.

DATA EXTRACTION: A detailed literature review was conducted using the "sepsis chain of survival" as a basis, with an emphasis on sepsis prevention, detection, therapy, post-sepsis care, education, and future research priorities. A total of 8865 studies were identified and screened, with 155 included in the review.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Based on literature review, the Delphi process achieved a stable consensus for 58 of 62 (94%) of the proposed clinical practice statements after eight survey rounds. These statements offer guidance on measures to improve the prevention, early recognition and time-sensitive, comprehensive management of sepsis in LRS through the continuum of care from first response to post-sepsis care and follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS: There remains a significant lack of high-quality evidence to support improvements in sepsis care for patients in LRS. Pending new data, the clinical practice statements identified here complement the existing international guidelines for sepsis management by serving as a basis for immediate care and future research in LRS.},
}

Humans
*Sepsis/therapy/diagnosis/prevention & control
Resource-Limited Settings
Delphi Technique
Developing Countries
Consensus

@article {pmid41860329,
year = {2026},
author = {Hidalgo, JL and Akech, SO and Acharya, SP and Coopersmith, CM and Jacob, ST and Johnston, C and Kissoon, N and Machado, FR and Maves, RC and Molyneux, E and Morrow, BM and Myatra, SN and Pérez Cornejo, MS and Perez-Fernandez, J and Permpikul, C and Piyavechviratana, K and Rhodes, A and Kortz, TB and Kumar, VK and Ulisubisya, MM and Nadkarni, V},
title = {The Frame of Survival for Sepsis: A Practical Systems Framework for Time-Sensitive Critical Illness in Low-Resource Settings.},
journal = {Critical care medicine},
volume = {54},
number = {5},
pages = {1202-1208},
doi = {10.1097/CCM.0000000000007093},
pmid = {41860329},
issn = {1530-0293},
mesh = {Resource-Limited Settings ; *Sepsis/therapy/mortality/diagnosis ; Humans ; *Critical Illness/therapy/mortality ; Quality Improvement/organization & administration ; *Critical Care/organization & administration/standards ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Sepsis is a time-sensitive cause of preventable death worldwide, with disproportionate mortality in low-resource settings (LRS). Many recommendations in international sepsis guidance presume resources unavailable in many facilities and communities. We sought to develop a practical framework that helps health systems embed feasible sepsis actions within broader emergency and essential critical care systems, while highlighting where evidence is limited and where local learning systems are needed.

DATA SOURCES: A targeted scoping review of peer-reviewed and grey literature on sepsis epidemiology, emergency care systems, essential emergency and critical care, implementation strategies, and quality improvement (QI) in LRS; and key guideline and policy documents relevant to sepsis and emergency care.

STUDY SELECTION: We prioritized publications and guidance relevant to LRS, including observational studies, pragmatic implementation reports, consensus statements, and policies addressing emergency care organization, workforce, supply chains, diagnostics, and QI.

DATA EXTRACTION: Task force members abstracted actionable strategies, implementation barriers/enablers, and feasibility considerations across the care continuum (community, transport/prehospital, facility-based acute care, and referral). We also identified domains where guideline certainty is low or indirect for LRS.

DATA SYNTHESIS: A Society of Critical Care Medicine-convened multidisciplinary task force iteratively developed the "Sepsis Frame of Survival" using a structured process that included 1) scoping evidence review, 2) a Delphi-style prioritization of candidate framework elements by importance and feasibility, and 3) a structured consensus meeting ("Utstein-style" conference format) to finalize the model and its priority actions. We produced a concise implementation roadmap and a feasible measurement set aligned with resource constraints.

CONCLUSIONS: The Sepsis Frame of Survival is a pragmatic model to organize sepsis improvement as part of emergency and essential critical care strengthening. It emphasizes high-impact actions that can be implemented with limited resources (triage and early recognition, timely antimicrobials, oxygen and basic supportive care, cautious fluid resuscitation with reassessment, source control and referral, diagnostics/microbiology where feasible, and QI). The framework explicitly distinguishes near-term, feasible changes from longer-term system investments and highlights the need for locally generated evidence to guide quality indicators and resuscitation strategies in LRS.},
}

Resource-Limited Settings
*Sepsis/therapy/mortality/diagnosis
Humans
*Critical Illness/therapy/mortality
Quality Improvement/organization & administration
*Critical Care/organization & administration/standards

@article {pmid41861257,
year = {2026},
author = {Madhugiri, R and Slanina, H and Saleem-Batcha, R and Ziebuhr, J},
title = {The Coronavirus Replication-Transcription Complex.},
journal = {Annual review of biochemistry},
volume = {95},
number = {1},
pages = {317-346},
doi = {10.1146/annurev-biochem-052621-091439},
pmid = {41861257},
issn = {1545-4509},
mesh = {*Virus Replication ; Humans ; *Coronavirus/genetics/physiology ; *RNA, Viral/genetics/biosynthesis/metabolism ; *RNA Replication ; Animals ; *Transcription, Genetic ; },
abstract = {Coronaviruses (family Coronaviridae, order Nidovirales) include major human and animal pathogens. They have exceptionally large RNA genomes and use complex strategies to replicate and express these genomes. Intensive research activities in recent years have significantly advanced our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in coronavirus RNA synthesis. Here, we briefly review these mechanisms and focus in particular on the structures and functions of the core replication-transcription complex (RTC) and other enzyme functions that can be recruited to this complex to fulfil additional functions, for example, in the context of 5' capping of viral mRNAs or in the context of mechanisms that control the processivity, replication fidelity, and backtracking of RTCs. Some of these recent studies provided fundamentally new insight into specific roles of previously identified genetic markers of coronaviruses and other nidoviruses, including specific functions in an unconventional RNA capping mechanism and potential roles in proofreading and discontinuous negative-strand RNA synthesis.},
}

*Virus Replication
Humans
*Coronavirus/genetics/physiology
*RNA, Viral/genetics/biosynthesis/metabolism
*RNA Replication
Animals
*Transcription, Genetic

@article {pmid41862100,
year = {2026},
author = {Cordeiro, J and Macela, C and Kleiner, R and Vaskovich-Koubi, D and Moura, LIF and Satchi-Fainaro, R and Florindo, HF},
title = {Harnessing the power of microbiome, nanotechnology, and immunity against cancer.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {394},
number = {},
pages = {114839},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.114839},
pmid = {41862100},
issn = {1873-4995},
mesh = {Humans ; *Microbiota/immunology ; *Neoplasms/immunology/therapy/microbiology ; *Nanotechnology/methods ; Animals ; Immunotherapy/methods ; Tumor Microenvironment/immunology ; },
abstract = {The human microbiome has emerged as a key player in health and disease, including cancer, which remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Although advances in understanding the tumor immune microenvironment and the development of immunotherapies have transformed cancer treatment, clinical efficacy remains limited by suboptimal response rates and severe side effects. Recent integrative research in cancer biology, immune-oncology, and cancer microbiome research, enabled by omics technologies and advanced bioinformatics, has begun to reveal intricate links between the microbiome, cancer progression, and immune modulation. These findings underscore the microbiome's pivotal role in shaping both therapeutic efficacy and resistance mechanisms. Currently, nanotechnology, propelled into mainstream success through the development of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, is offering new tools for precision oncology. Nanomaterials are now being explored not only for targeted drug delivery but also for monitoring and modulating the microbiome, with significant potential for biomarker discovery and personalized medicine. In this article, we explore the role of the microbiota in tumorigenesis and cancer therapy, with a particular focus on its crosstalk with the immune system. We highlight emerging microbiota-targeted therapeutic strategies and discuss how nanotechnology-based systems are being designed to modulate the microbiome-immune-cancer axis. Finally, we discuss future directions in leveraging the convergence of microbiome science, nanotechnology, and immunotherapy to advance cancer treatment.},
}

Humans
*Microbiota/immunology
*Neoplasms/immunology/therapy/microbiology
*Nanotechnology/methods
Animals
Immunotherapy/methods
Tumor Microenvironment/immunology

@article {pmid41862909,
year = {2026},
author = {Khalid, K and Abdullah, ADI and Lim, HX and Ali, RAR},
title = {Pharmacological and non-pharmacological management of long COVID.},
journal = {Virology journal},
volume = {23},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41862909},
issn = {1743-422X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Dysbiosis ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/therapy ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a major global health burden in terms of acute infection and long-term consequences. Approximately 10% of infected experience autonomic dysfunction, cardiovascular complications, and neurological impairments. While immune dysregulation, persistent viral reservoirs, chronic inflammation, gut dysbiosis, and vascular dysfunction are implicated, the exact pathophysiological mechanisms of Long COVID remain unclear. Additionally, treatment options are limited and challenging to prescribe due to symptom heterogeneity. Non-pharmacological interventions such as increased salt intake, elimination diets for gastrointestinal symptoms, and cognitive pacing for fatigue may not be sufficient for severe symptoms. Moreover, pharmacological interventions such as β-blockers, calcium channel blockers, pyridostigmine, antihistamines, and low-dose naltrexone can improve tachycardia, fatigue, and brain fog but there are no standardized guidelines. In light of evidence supporting a strong association of Long COVID with gut dysbiosis, probiotics have emerged as a promising intervention. Clinical studies have shown that Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium species can improve fatigue, gastrointestinal health, and overall physical and mental well-being in Long COVID patients. Large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to validate probiotic efficacy in Long COVID and reduce burden on individual health and healthcare institutions.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Probiotics/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
Dysbiosis
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/therapy

@article {pmid41862917,
year = {2026},
author = {Luo, S and Zheng, Z and Karimi, L and Plebanski, M and Lankatillake, C and Sheahan, J and Anderson, K and Jovanovski, N and Seal, EL and Cockshaw, W and Wollersheim, D and Cleary, S and El-Ansary, D and Flanagan, KL and Jessup, R and Abrahamson, S and Whyler, N and Fineberg, D and Scoullar, MJL and Seeley, MC and Tippett, E and Xenos, S and Itsiopoulos, C},
title = {Between silence and solutions: a global guideline review of long COVID care and services in Australia.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41862917},
issn = {1472-6963},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: As the acute response to the COVID-19 pandemic shifts to long-term management, the lasting effects of infection are becoming increasingly evident. Long COVID continues to challenge healthcare systems, with many healthcare professionals reporting uncertainty about assessment and referral pathways. This updated review examines recent international guidelines alongside Australian services to identify gaps between guidelines and practice. METHODS: Between April and October 2025, we searched for guidelines on Long COVID published in English and assessed their quality by applying the AGREE II appraisal tool. We also conducted a grey literature search to profile active Australian services providing Long COVID care. RESULTS: Three new or updated guidelines were published in the United States, Canada, and New South Wales, Australia. Together with the World Health Organisation, United Kingdom and New Zealand guidelines identified in the previous review, all emphasise integrated, primary care-led approaches. Notably, Australian service delivery remains fragmented, with a growing number of primary health practitioner-led private services operating largely under a fee-for-service model, leading to variations in access and affordability. Many hospital-based outpatient clinics have been absorbed into existing chronic-disease services. The most fundamental challenge is statistical invisibility: without an activated diagnostic code, services cannot reliably identify or follow people living with Long COVID. This invisibility limits both surveillance and service planning. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Australia is currently developing national clinical best-practice guidelines for ME/CFS, which may also benefit Long COVID; however, Australia remains behind comparable nations such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States in developing and implementing the integrated, multidisciplinary care models recommended internationally. This has significant implications, namely that the rapid transition from hospital-based Long COVID clinics to primary care-led services has resulted in fragmented and uncoordinated care. Strengthening Australia’s response will require national leadership and investment in workforce training, sustainable funding for care coordination, improved public and professional awareness, the establishment of primary care-led multidisciplinary pathways, and the activation of a dedicated diagnostic code. Also importantly, shifting to a patient-centred approach and patient-practitioner collaborative model of care is essential to prepare the health system for managing Long COVID and future complex, multi-system conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41863157,
year = {2026},
author = {Mori, Y and Silwal, S and Wan Mohd Yunus, WMA and Sourander, A},
title = {Long-Term Trends in Screen Time Use Among Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review Including Pre- and Post-COVID Periods.},
journal = {Clinical child psychology and psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {13591045261432532},
doi = {10.1177/13591045261432532},
pmid = {41863157},
issn = {1461-7021},
abstract = {The rapid rise in internet access and smartphone use has significantly changed how children and adolescents engage in screen-based activities. To date, no systematic review has examined long-term trends in screen time use among children and adolescents that cover periods before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review examined repeated cross-sectional studies to determine whether screen time use among children and adolescents changed over time. This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021243869). The Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO databases were searched to identify peer-reviewed studies that had been published in English, included data from at least two time points, and focused on children and adolescents between 0 and 19 years of age. The search was conducted without any restrictions on publication year. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Study quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment Tool for Studies with Diverse Designs. A narrative synthesis was conducted following the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis guidelines. This review identified 60 studies covering the period 1991-2022. The findings indicate that traditional TV watching declined while the use of computers and video games grew. Screen time increased significantly over the years, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic started. The studies reviewed varied in how they defined and measured screen time. The review underscores the importance of continued research and evidence-based policies to guide responsible technology use in the lives of young people.},
}

@article {pmid41863427,
year = {2026},
author = {Barzoki, MG and Farahmand, M and Mahmodi, MJ and Amirjannati, N and Malekshahi, SS},
title = {The Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Male Infertility: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies.},
journal = {Reviews in medical virology},
volume = {36},
number = {2},
pages = {e70128},
doi = {10.1002/rmv.70128},
pmid = {41863427},
issn = {1099-1654},
support = {4021102//National Institute for Medical Research Development/ ; },
mesh = {Male ; Humans ; *Infertility, Male/virology/etiology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/complications/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Spermatozoa/virology/pathology ; Sperm Motility ; Semen Analysis ; Sperm Count ; Cohort Studies ; Semen/virology ; DNA Fragmentation ; },
abstract = {Several conclusions have emerged regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the male reproductive system. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive update on the relationship between COVID-19 and male reproductive health. We investigated the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various semen parameters, including semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm total count, total motility, progressive motility, morphology, and DNA fragmentation index (DFI). A literature review was conducted on all studies evaluating the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on male infertility from the beginning of 2019 through December 2023. Main electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were used. The research question was based on the PECO framework, focusing on (Population) exposed to SARS-CoV-2 (Exposure), compared to uninfected men (Comparator), with conventional sperm parameters as the measured Outcome. The studies were divided into two groups for analysis: between-group comparisons, which compared sperm parameters of men recovered from COVID-19 to uninfected controls, and within-subject comparisons, which assessed sperm parameters in the same individuals before and after infection. Standardized mean differences (SMD) were calculated as effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for each outcome. The DerSimonian-Laird method estimated between-study variance (τ[2]), while the Jackson method calculated confidence intervals for τ[2] and τ. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger's test. This meta-analysis included two types of cohort studies: single-arm studies and those with a control group. In the single-arm studies, a statistically significant decrease in semen volume (p = 0.0023) was observed. Additionally, in the cohort studies with controls, there were statistically significant reductions in sperm concentration (p < 0.0001), total count (p = 0.0001), total motility (p = 0.0009), progressive sperm motility (0.0391), and DFI (0.04). This is the most up-to-date systematic review and meta-analysis incorporating cohort study data. The findings provide compelling evidence that SARS-CoV-2 infection adversely affects male reproductive health, particularly in terms of semen quality. The analysis reveals significant reductions in key semen parameters, including sperm count, concentration, total motility, and progressive motility. Adult maleand DFI.},
}

Male
Humans
*Infertility, Male/virology/etiology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/complications/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Spermatozoa/virology/pathology
Sperm Motility
Semen Analysis
Sperm Count
Cohort Studies
Semen/virology
DNA Fragmentation

@article {pmid41864480,
year = {2026},
author = {Rauf, M and Naveed, A and Asghar, MU},
title = {Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19: A disorder of impaired innate immune resolution - A narrative review.},
journal = {Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.)},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {110701},
doi = {10.1016/j.clim.2026.110701},
pmid = {41864480},
issn = {1521-7035},
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Trained Immunity ; Alarmins/immunology ; Inflammation/immunology ; Inflammasomes/immunology ; Innate Immunity Recognition ; },
abstract = {Post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) affect millions of people worldwide and are increasingly recognized as a disorder of failed innate immune resolution rather than a persistent viral infection. Emerging evidence shows that residual SARS-CoV-2 antigens, host-derived alarmins, reactivated latent viruses, and mucosal microbiome-derived products from oral-nasopharyngeal and gut reservoirs sustain the chronic activation of pattern-recognition receptors, inflammasomes, and complement pathways. In parallel, deficits in specialized pro-resolving mediators, impaired efferocytosis, and persistent tissue injury prevent physiological termination of inflammation. These unresolved cues drive long-lasting epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming of hematopoietic stem cells and myeloid lineages, creating maladaptive trained immunity states characterized by hyper-responsiveness or exhaustion of these cells. Thromboinflammatory processes, including aberrant NETosis and sustained interface signalingling, further reinforce self-perpetuating inflammatory circuits. Together, these pathways give rise to reproducible molecular endotypes, including thromboinflammatory, interferon-driven, and neuroinflammatory phenotypes, which explain clinical heterogeneity. Framing PASC as a disorder of impaired immune resolution within a mucosal microbial viral context provides a unifying mechanistic scaffold for biomarker identification and host-directed therapies. This review proposes that restoring active resolution programs, rebalancing metabolic-epigenetic networks, and dismantling pathogenic innate feedback loops are promising strategies for reversing the chronic immune imprint of PASC.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Trained Immunity
Alarmins/immunology
Inflammation/immunology
Inflammasomes/immunology
Innate Immunity Recognition

@article {pmid41865876,
year = {2026},
author = {Prichett, LM and Young, AS and Wu, EG and Yolken, RH and Severance, EG and Prandovszky, E and Carmichael, D and Badio, J and Kumra, T},
title = {Uneven Recovery: Intersectional Disparities in Youth Mental Health After COVID-19.},
journal = {Academic pediatrics},
volume = {26},
number = {4},
pages = {103299},
doi = {10.1016/j.acap.2026.103299},
pmid = {41865876},
issn = {1876-2867},
}

@article {pmid41866483,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, HQ and Liu, Y and Gu, KN and Song, YLQ},
title = {Meta-analysis of factors influencing depression in the elderly before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2023.},
journal = {BMC geriatrics},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41866483},
issn = {1471-2318},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore and summarize the changes in depressive symptoms and their influencing factors among the elderly before and after the outbreak of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, so as to provide evidence-based references for the prevention and management of depression in the elderly. METHOD: By searching published in PubMed, EBSCOhost, Springer Link, Web of Science, Taylor and Francis databases, the literature on depression in older adults was collected using the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15), Depression Scale (CDS-11) questionnaire and diagnostic interview (CDI-SF) as a tool. Among them, in the included literature, before January 2023 was identified as the pre-outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and due to the differences in the time of full liberalization of countries, the beginning of 2023 to now was identified as the late outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Stata17 was used for meta-analysis. RESULTS: Thirteen pre-COVID-19 pandemic and seven post-COVID-19 pandemic literatures were included. A total of seven influencing factors were included. Before the COVID-19 pandemic: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, trends in potential risks for depression among older adults included: being female (OR = 1.464, 95% CI: 1.164~1.840,p < 0.001), being divorced or widowed (OR = 2.126, 95% CI: 1.170~3.862, P = 0.013), and having a chronic disease (OR = 1.174, 95% CI: 1.023~1.347, P = 0.022), age ≥ 70 years (OR = 1.336,95%CI: 0.850~2.102, P = 0.210), loneliness (OR = 2.450,95%CI: 2.445~2.455, P = < 0.001) and the junior middle school and the following qualifications (OR＝1.145, 95% CI:0.873~1.501, p＝0.327) were trends in potential risks for depression in older adults. Living alone (OR = 0.939, 95%CI: 0.417~2.116, P = 0.88), high school education or above (OR = 0.904,95%CI: 0.640~1.276, P = 0.564) were the lower risks. After the outbreak: being female (OR = 1.156, 95% CI: 0.675 ~ 1.980, P = 0.596), the junior middle school and the following qualifications (OR = 1.05, 95% CI: 0.964 ~ 1.143, P = 0.264), having a chronic disease (OR = 1.269, 95% CI: 1.003 ~ 1.605, P = 0.047), age ≥ 70 years (OR = 1.472, 95% CI: 0.861 ~ 2.517, P = 0.158), there is loneliness (OR = 2.913, 95% CI: 2.372 ~ 3.578, p < 0.001), live alone (OR = 1.627, 95% CI: 0.798 ~ 3.318, P = 0.180), high school education or above (OR = 1.053,95%CI:0.757 ~ 1.465, P = 0.757) were trends in potential risks for depression in older adults, divorce or widowed (OR = 0.482,95%CI:0.041 ~ 5.704, P = 0.563) were lower risks. CONCLUSIONS: The study found that the association patterns between depression in the elderly and five factors (divorced or widowed status, aged ≥ 70 years, loneliness, living alone, and high school education or above) exhibited distinct characteristics before and after the pandemic. Among these, loneliness and chronic diseases were consistently significant risk factors for depression in the elderly, and the strength of the association between loneliness and depression was further enhanced in the post-pandemic period. Notably, the significant association between female gender and depression observed in the pre-pandemic period no longer existed in the post-pandemic period. This change is speculated to be related to adjustments in the coverage of social support after the pandemic, which requires further verification in subsequent studies. Based on the above association characteristics, targeted intervention measures can be adopted in the post-pandemic period, such as striving to alleviate loneliness in the elderly, strengthening health monitoring for key groups including the elderly living alone and those aged ≥ 70 years, and promoting the organic integration of chronic disease management and psychological assessment, so as to effectively reduce the risk of depression in the elderly.},
}

@article {pmid41866665,
year = {2026},
author = {Tao, S and Zhou, Z and Li, X and Wang, XW and Liu, X and Kang, D},
title = {Recent Advances of Non-Nucleoside Polymerase Inhibitors With Broad-Spectrum Antiviral Activities.},
journal = {Medicinal research reviews},
volume = {46},
number = {4},
pages = {945-965},
doi = {10.1002/med.70041},
pmid = {41866665},
issn = {1098-1128},
support = {tsqn 202408055//Taishan Scholar Program of Shandong Province/ ; 2023YFC2308900//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; 2023YFE0206500//National Key Research and Development Program/ ; SYS202205//Shandong Laboratory Program/ ; //Qilu Young Scholars Program of Shandong University/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/enzymology ; },
abstract = {A tremendous and painful price has been paid in the fight against pandemic viruses in the global health field. Emerging and re-emerging viruses serve as primary drivers of severe pandemics, such as influenza virus (IV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Viral polymerases are highly conserved among viruses of the same genus. Inhibitors targeting polymerases often exhibit broad-spectrum antiviral activity against these same genus viruses, playing a crucial role in antiviral therapies. Non-nucleoside polymerase inhibitors demonstrate their superiority in terms of safety and anti-mutation ability out of nucleoside/nucleotide polymerase inhibitors. This review presents an overview of non-nucleoside polymerase inhibitors along with their relative antiviral activities and mechanisms of action, providing a reference for the development of novel antiviral drugs with broad-spectrum activities.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Humans
*Enzyme Inhibitors/pharmacology/chemistry
Animals
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects/enzymology

@article {pmid41867155,
year = {2026},
author = {Valero-Gaspar, T and Garriga, C and Unim, B and Feteira-Santos, R and Palmieri, L and Díaz, A and Rodríguez-Blázquez, C and Forjaz, MJ},
title = {Indirect impact of COVID-19 pandemic on health and wellbeing: a narrative review.},
journal = {Annali dell'Istituto superiore di sanita},
volume = {62},
number = {1},
pages = {53-66},
doi = {10.4415/ANN_26_01_08},
pmid = {41867155},
issn = {2384-8553},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/economics/epidemiology ; *Quality of Life ; Mental Health ; *Cost of Illness ; *Health Status ; Life Expectancy ; Pandemics ; Disability-Adjusted Life Years ; Psychological Well-Being ; Quality-Adjusted Life Years ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on global health, notably affecting patients with non-COVID-19 conditions, who faced substantial disruptions in their treatment and care. The aim of this narrative review was to identify the main indicators used in literature to evaluate the indirect impact of COVID-19 on health and wellbeing.

METHOD: A literature search was conducted using PubMed from January 2021 to November 2022. The indicators were categorized into five main groups: burden of disease (BoD), life expectancy (LE), health-related quality of life (HRQoL), cost of illness and mental health status and were retrieved from 20 scientific articles.

RESULTS: Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) revealed substantial health losses; a decrease in LE was observed, with inequalities across population subgroups; HRQoL showed impairments in physical functioning, daily activities and emotional well-being; productivity losses were economically relevant and varied by context and elevated symptoms of anxiety and depression were reported.

DISCUSSION: The compiled indicators may contribute to the development of sustainable pandemic mitigation policies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/economics/epidemiology
*Quality of Life
Mental Health
*Cost of Illness
*Health Status
Life Expectancy
Pandemics
Disability-Adjusted Life Years
Psychological Well-Being
Quality-Adjusted Life Years

@article {pmid41868370,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, H and Wang, T and Xiang, T and Xu, L and Zheng, Z and Zheng, X},
title = {Secondary fungal infections in severe acute viral diseases: clinical features and underlying immune mechanisms.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1780547},
pmid = {41868370},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Secondary fungal infections are increasingly recognized as critical factors in the prognosis of severe acute viral infections, including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome virus, and Dengue. This review outlines the clinical features of fungal complications, proposing a "virus-driven immune reprogramming" framework. It highlights how viral infections disrupt immune barriers, impair the Th17-IL-17 antifungal axis, attenuate platelet immune function, and involve unique pathogen interactions, creating a host immune microenvironment that is more susceptible to fungal invasion. Understanding these immune-injury mechanisms underscores the clinical importance of earlier surveillance of secondary fungal disease and informs the development of mechanism-guided therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41869111,
year = {2026},
author = {Bartley, G and Waugh, S and Gopalan, V},
title = {Evaluating Study Techniques for Australian Medical Students During Clinical Placement: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e103802},
pmid = {41869111},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Transitioning from pre-clinical to clinical phases of medical education represents a unique challenge as students learn most content through self-directed learning (SDL), rather than the more prescriptive pre-clinical curriculum. There is a range of SDL study techniques employed by medical students on placement. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital resources, prompting a need to reassess the study techniques that best support clinical-year medical students. However, there is a lack of research on which study techniques Australian clinical-year medical students find most effective. The objective of this study is to evaluate the evidence on student-perceived utility of common study techniques for SDL whilst on clinical placement in Australia. A qualitative scoping review of literature on PubMed and Medline Ovid was performed in 2024. Study inclusion criteria for articles were published articles, English language, publication within 20 years, and focus on clinical-year medical students. Exclusion criteria were review articles, investigations focusing on a specific educational intervention, and studies including only pre-clinical students. Studies were qualitatively appraised and synthesised by tabulation in Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, US). Risk of bias analysis was not performed. Nine studies from Australia, the USA, the UK, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia were analysed. This included seven cross-sectional, one mixed-methods, and one qualitative analysis. Sample size ranged from 12 to 350 students. Only two studies were conducted after the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the results of the included studies demonstrate a consistent trend towards third-party online tools, including question banks, mobile applications, and revision courses for SDL. The strength of evidence on students' perceived efficacy of study techniques in the post-pandemic era presented is limited due to the small number of included studies and the lack of formal study appraisal. There is also poor generalisability of pre-pandemic and international studies to the contemporary Australian context. As there is a lack of a standardised tool to evaluate study technique utility, comparison between studies is difficult. Ongoing research is required to develop evidence-based guidelines that can assist students in commencing SDL whilst on clinical placement.},
}

@article {pmid41869535,
year = {2026},
author = {Singh, H and Tripathi, G and Khan, AA and Verma, A and Singh, A},
title = {Autophagy, telomerase, and endothelial dysfunction in COVID-19-induced cardiac injury: an evidence-graded genetic and epigenetic synthesis.},
journal = {Frontiers in cardiovascular medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1769828},
pmid = {41869535},
issn = {2297-055X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cardiac injury is a frequent and severe complication of COVID-19, yet the molecular mechanisms driving myocardial involvement remain incompletely understood. Dysregulated autophagy, telomerase/telomere biology, and endothelial dysfunction have emerged as biologically plausible and potentially interconnected contributors to COVID-19-associated cardiac injury.

METHODS: We conducted a narrative, evidence-graded review of literature retrieved from PubMed and EMBASE, with Google Scholar used selectively as a supplementary source to capture emerging or cross-disciplinary studies. Eligible studies included human investigations and relevant animal models reporting genetic, epigenetic, or molecular alterations in autophagy, telomerase, or endothelial pathways with cardiovascular relevance. Non-English publications, studies lacking primary data, and reports unrelated to cardiovascular or systemic disease mechanisms were excluded. Evidence was stratified as Level I (direct evidence in COVID-19-associated cardiac injury), Level II (COVID-19 systemic or vascular evidence with plausible cardiac relevance), and Level III (non-COVID cardiovascular or systemic disease; hypothesis-generating).

FINDINGS: Across viral, cardiovascular, and systemic contexts, key candidate genes, including ATG5, ATG7, Beclin-1, TERT, ICAM1, and eNOS -emerged as potential mediators of COVID-19-related cardiac injury. While endothelial activation is supported by relatively consistent clinical and molecular evidence, direct cardiac-tissue data linking autophagy and telomerase pathways to COVID-19-associated myocardial injury remain limited. These gaps highlight substantial uncertainty regarding causal mechanisms and inter-individual susceptibility.

CONCLUSION: Autophagy dysregulation, telomere attrition, and endothelial dysfunction represent convergent and biologically plausible mechanisms contributing to COVID-19-associated cardiac injury; however, current evidence remains largely indirect and derived from systemic or vascular compartments rather than cardiac tissue. Cardiac-specific, longitudinal genetic and epigenetic studies are required before these pathways can be considered for biomarker development or therapeutic targeting.},
}

@article {pmid41869602,
year = {2026},
author = {Frodsham, C and Harvey, SB and Collins, D and Krakue, K and Dalgaard, VL and Lipscomb, R and Hotopf, M and Deady, M and Bryant, R and Gayed, A},
title = {Prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in healthcare workers before and during COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1735552},
pmid = {41869602},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Prevalence ; *Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Frontline Workers ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated many known risk factors for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among healthcare workers. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines pooled prevalence estimates of probable PTSD among this cohort prior to COVID-19 compared to during COVID-19 and investigates time trends in prevalence. Systematic multi-database literature searches were conducted to identify studies published between January 2017 and July 2023. Included studies reported the prevalence of probable PTSD, measured by validated screening tools, in clinical healthcare workers. Two reviewers independently conducted study screening, data extraction, and quality assessment. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to estimate pooled prevalence of probable PTSD among healthcare workers in each time period. Subgroup analyses were carried out for year, profession, quality of study, COVID-19 mortality rates, and income level within the country of study. Screening identified 21 papers comprising 11,838 healthcare workers published in the 3 years preceding the pandemic, and 129 papers reporting on 130,363 healthcare workers during the pandemic. The pooled prevalence estimate of probable PTSD prior to the pandemic was 15.5% (95% CI: 12.3-19.3%) and this significantly increased during the pandemic to 24.8% (95% CI: 22.0-27.8%), peaking early in the pandemic in 2020 before returning to pre-pandemic levels in 2022. During the pandemic, prevalence estimates were significantly higher among nurses and those in countries with high COVID-19 mortality rates, whilst no significant difference was observed between studies conducted in high-income versus low- and middle-income countries. Substantial heterogeneity was observed. The findings of this review suggest that prevalence of PTSD among healthcare workers significantly increased following the COVID-19 outbreak. By the third year of the pandemic, probable PTSD prevalence rates appear to return to pre-pandemic levels, although these levels remain concerningly high. These findings support the call for targeted interventions to protect healthcare worker wellbeing, particularly during healthcare emergencies.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42022364955, unique identifier is CRD42022364955.},
}

Humans
*Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Prevalence
*Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Frontline Workers
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41869844,
year = {2026},
author = {Weiss, SL and Peters, MJ and Oczkowski, SJW and Belley-Cote, E and Buysse, C and Choong, KLM and Deep, A and Inwald, DP and Flori, HR and Kneyber, MCJ and Menon, K and Murthy, S and Nunnally, ME and Parker, MM and Schlapbach, LJ and Oliveira, CF and Sorce, LR and Agus, M and Argent, AC and Balamuth, F and Bansal, A and Bem, RA and Brierley, J and Burns, KEA and Carlton, EF and Carrol, ED and Carroll, CL and Carter, MJ and Conlon, TW and Daniels, R and De Luca, D and Di Nardo, M and Dulfer, K and Faust, SN and Fernandez-Sarmiento, J and Fitzgerald, JC and Hall, M and Hsu, BS and Javouhey, E and Joosten, K and Karam, O and Kelly, SP and Lang, HJ and Lee, JH and Lemson, J and MacLaren, G and Manning, JC and Mehta, N and Morin, L and Morrow, BM and Nadel, S and Nishisaki, A and Pong, S and Raman, S and Randolph, AG and Ranjit, S and Ray, S and Remy, KE and Scott, HF and Sick-Samuels, AC and Souza, DC and Swan, T and Tibby, SM and Valla, FV and Watson, RS and Wiens, MO and Wolf, J and Zimmerman, JJ and Tissieres, P and Kissoon, N},
title = {Surviving Sepsis Campaign International Guidelines for the Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock in Children 2026.},
journal = {Pediatric critical care medicine : a journal of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies},
volume = {27},
number = {4},
pages = {379-434},
doi = {10.1097/PCC.0000000000003927},
pmid = {41869844},
issn = {1529-7535},
mesh = {Humans ; *Shock, Septic/therapy ; *Sepsis/therapy ; Child ; Evidence-Based Medicine/standards ; Adolescent ; Infant ; Child, Preschool ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To update evidence-based management recommendations for clinicians caring for children (including infants, school-aged children, and adolescents) with sepsis or septic shock.

DESIGN: A panel of 68 international experts, representing 13 international organizations, as well as six methodologists, was convened. A formal conflict-of-interest policy was developed at the onset of the process and applied throughout. Teleconferences and electronic-based discussion among the chairs, co-chairs, methodologists, and subgroup leads as well as within subgroups, served as an integral part of the guideline development process.

METHODS: New priority topics and recommendations from the prior guideline iteration were used to identify Population, Intervention, Control, and Outcomes (PICO) questions likely to have new or updated evidence. We conducted a systematic review to identify the best available evidence, summarized the evidence, and then assessed the quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. We used the evidence-to-decision framework to formulate recommendations as strong or conditional, or as a good practice statement. "In our practice," statements were included when evidence was inconclusive to issue a recommendation but the panel felt that some guidance based on practice patterns may be appropriate.

RESULTS: The panel provided 61 statements on the management of children with sepsis or septic shock. Overall, five were strong recommendations, 24 were conditional recommendations, and ten were good practice statements. For 22 PICO questions, no recommendations could be made, but, for seven of these, "in our practice" statements were provided. Compared with the 2020 guidelines, 20 recommendations were new, 13 were updated for clarity and/or new evidence, six were reviewed but not changed, and 22 were carried forward based on consensus of the panel that new evidence was not available. Only three recommendations were based on high or moderate certainty of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Updated management guidelines were issued by a panel of international experts for the best care of children with sepsis or septic shock, acknowledging that most aspects of care continue to have relatively low quality of evidence.},
}

Humans
*Shock, Septic/therapy
*Sepsis/therapy
Child
Evidence-Based Medicine/standards
Adolescent
Infant
Child, Preschool
Practice Guidelines as Topic

@article {pmid41870078,
year = {2026},
author = {Bayurova, E and Kostyushev, D and Tikhonov, A and Chulanov, V and Gordeychuk, I},
title = {Broad-acting antivirals: the pursuit of pan-viral therapeutics in the era of pandemics.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {100},
number = {5},
pages = {e0007726},
pmid = {41870078},
issn = {1098-5514},
support = {25-65-00010//Russian Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Host-Directed Therapy ; Pandemics ; Drug Repositioning ; Animals ; COVID-19/virology ; Drug Resistance, Viral ; },
abstract = {The ever-present threat of new viral epidemics makes the scientific community relentlessly work on the development of universal methods of antiviral therapy. The development of broad-spectrum antivirals (BSAs) focuses either on substances acting directly on viral proteins (direct-acting antivirals [DAA]) or on substances directed at the cell's own proteins (host-targeting antivirals [HTA]). Decades of development have led to the market entry of a number of DAAs with a wide range of antiviral activities; however, their clinical approval has been obtained for individual infections. HTAs have a number of advantages over DAAs, such as a wider range of antiviral activities and a high genetic barrier to viral resistance, which is undoubtedly important when preparing for a battle with an unknown pathogen. The COVID-19 pandemic has allowed for multiple clinical trials for repurposed HTAs, previously licensed for the treatment of other diseases, including cancer. Despite the enormous work done, the arsenal of BSAs capable of protecting against future pandemics caused by pathogen X is very limited. In this review, we described data on the most studied DAAs and HTAs, effective against at least two unrelated viral pathogens, focusing on those that have been studied in late preclinical and clinical trials. In the end, we highlighted alternative new approaches such as CRISPR-Cas therapy.},
}

*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Host-Directed Therapy
Pandemics
Drug Repositioning
Animals
COVID-19/virology
Drug Resistance, Viral

@article {pmid41870559,
year = {2026},
author = {Weiss, SL and Peters, MJ and Oczkowski, SJW and Belley-Cote, E and Buysse, C and Choong, KLM and Deep, A and Inwald, DP and Flori, HR and Kneyber, MCJ and Menon, K and Murthy, S and Nunnally, ME and Parker, MM and Schlapbach, LJ and Oliveira, CF and Sorce, LR and Agus, M and Argent, AC and Balamuth, F and Bansal, A and Bem, RA and Brierley, J and Burns, KEA and Carlton, EF and Carrol, ED and Carroll, CL and Carter, MJ and Conlon, TW and Daniels, R and De Luca, D and Di Nardo, M and Dulfer, K and Faust, SN and Fernandez-Sarmiento, J and Fitzgerald, JC and Hall, M and Hsu, BS and Javouhey, E and Joosten, K and Karam, O and Kelly, SP and Lang, HJ and Lee, JH and Lemson, J and MacLaren, G and Manning, JC and Mehta, N and Morin, L and Morrow, BM and Nadel, S and Nishisaki, A and Pong, S and Raman, S and Randolph, AG and Ranjit, S and Ray, S and Remy, KE and Scott, HF and Sick-Samuels, AC and Souza, DC and Swan, T and Tibby, SM and Valla, FV and Watson, RS and Wiens, MO and Wolf, J and Zimmerman, JJ and Tissieres, P and Kissoon, N},
title = {Surviving Sepsis Campaign International Guidelines for the Management of Sepsis and Septic Shock in Children 2026.},
journal = {Intensive care medicine},
volume = {52},
number = {5},
pages = {937-983},
pmid = {41870559},
issn = {1432-1238},
mesh = {Humans ; *Shock, Septic/therapy ; *Sepsis/therapy ; Child ; Evidence-Based Medicine ; *Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Adolescent ; Infant ; Child, Preschool ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To update evidence-based management recommendations for clinicians caring for children (including infants, school-aged children, and adolescents) with sepsis or septic shock.

DESIGN: A panel of 68 international experts, representing 13 international organizations, as well as six methodologists, was convened. A formal conflict-of-interest policy was developed at the onset of the process and applied throughout. Teleconferences and electronic-based discussion among the chairs, co-chairs, methodologists, and subgroup leads, as well as within subgroups, served as an integral part of the guideline development process.

METHODS: New priority topics and recommendations from the prior guideline iteration were used to identify Population, Intervention, Control, and Outcomes (PICO) questions likely to have new or updated evidence. We conducted a systematic review to identify the best available evidence, summarized the evidence, and then assessed the quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. We used the evidence-to-decision framework to formulate recommendations as strong or conditional, or as a good practice statement. "In our practice," statements were included when evidence was inconclusive to issue a recommendation, but the panel felt that some guidance based on practice patterns may be appropriate.

RESULTS: The panel provided 61 statements on the management of children with sepsis or septic shock. Overall, five were strong recommendations, 24 were conditional recommendations, and ten were good practice statements. For 22 PICO questions, no recommendations could be made, but for seven of these, "in our practice" statements were provided. Compared with the 2020 guidelines, 20 recommendations were new, 13 were updated for clarity and/or new evidence, six were reviewed but not changed, and 22 were carried forward based on consensus of the panel that new evidence was not available. Only three recommendations were based on high or moderate certainty of evidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Updated management guidelines were issued by a panel of international experts for the best care of children with sepsis or septic shock, acknowledging that most aspects of care continue to have relatively low quality of evidence.},
}

Humans
*Shock, Septic/therapy
*Sepsis/therapy
Child
Evidence-Based Medicine
*Practice Guidelines as Topic
Adolescent
Infant
Child, Preschool

@article {pmid41871039,
year = {2026},
author = {Kubica, J and Topoliński, T and Gajda, R and Musz, P and Kubica, A and Szarpak, Ł and Nowicki, K and Ziółkowski, M and Meszyński, S and Grzelak, S and Sokolov, O and Ratajczak, J and Umińska, JM and Niezgoda, P and Grzelakowska, K and Podhajski, P and Obońska, K and Laskowska, E and Piotrowicz, R and Tycińska, A and Specchia, G and Frantz, S and Störk, S and Navarese, EP},
title = {Artificial intelligence as the missing integrator in heart failure care - from remote monitoring to personalized therapy.},
journal = {Cardiology journal},
volume = {33},
number = {},
pages = {e00226032},
pmid = {41871039},
issn = {1898-018X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Heart Failure/therapy/diagnosis ; *Artificial Intelligence ; Remote Patient Monitoring ; COVID-19 ; *Precision Medicine/methods ; Digital Health ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; Telemedicine ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; Intelligent Systems ; },
abstract = {Heart failure (HF) remains a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and healthcare utilization worldwide, despite the availability of effective evidence-based therapies. The principal challenge is no longer the absence of treatment options but the limited capacity of traditional care models to deliver guidelinedirected medical therapy (GDMT) consistently and at scale. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of hospital-centered HF care, highlighting the need for more resilient, patient-centered management strategies. Remote monitoring (RM) has been proposed as a solution, yet its clinical impact has been inconsistent due to fragmented data streams, declining patient adherence, and heavy reliance on continuous human oversight. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers an opportunity to address these limitations by integrating multidimensional clinical data, enabling earlier detection of deterioration, supporting adherence, and prioritizing clinically meaningful interventions. Emerging evidence suggests that AI-assisted workflows can accelerate GDMT optimization and improve surrogate and clinical outcomes when implemented within supervised care pathways. This has led to the concept of next-generation remote monitoring (NGRM), in which AI analyzes longitudinal physiological and behavioral signals to generate context-aware alerts and actionable recommendations while reducing clinical workload. Successful implementation, however, requires rigorous validation, clear governance, integration with clinical workflows, and safeguards for safety, equity, and accountability. When embedded within structured HF care pathways, AI-enabled monitoring may help bridge the persistent gap between evidence and real-world implementation.},
}

Humans
*Heart Failure/therapy/diagnosis
*Artificial Intelligence
Remote Patient Monitoring
COVID-19
*Precision Medicine/methods
Digital Health
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
Telemedicine
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
Intelligent Systems

@article {pmid41871621,
year = {2026},
author = {Sartori, F and Crisafulli, E and Cariqueo, M and Di Chiara, C and Sartori, G and Fantin, A and Torres, A},
title = {Role of Vaccination in the Prevention of ECOPD.},
journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine},
volume = {47},
number = {3},
pages = {323-333},
doi = {10.1055/a-2837-8778},
pmid = {41871621},
issn = {1098-9048},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/prevention & control/complications/immunology/physiopathology ; *Vaccination/methods ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/therapeutic use ; COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use ; Influenza Vaccines/therapeutic use ; Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control ; Disease Progression ; },
abstract = {Exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (ECOPD) represent key events in the natural history of COPD and are associated with several adverse outcomes. Respiratory infections are major and potentially modifiable triggers of ECOPD, with viral pathogens such as the influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SARS-CoV-2, as well as bacterial infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, playing a central role. This narrative review examines the current evidence supporting vaccination as a preventive strategy for ECOPD and discusses its translation into clinical practice. The biological rationale for vaccination in COPD is reviewed, including disease-related immune dysregulation, impaired mucociliary clearance, and increased susceptibility to respiratory pathogens. Evidence from randomized clinical trials, observational studies, meta-analyses, and real-world data is summarized for pneumococcal, influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV vaccines. Pneumococcal vaccination has been shown to reduce the burden of community-acquired pneumonia and invasive pneumococcal disease, with conjugate and higher-valent vaccines providing enhanced immunogenicity in older and high-risk adults. Influenza vaccination consistently reduces severe exacerbations, hospitalizations, and mortality, with additional cardioprotective effects of relevance in COPD. SARS-CoV-2 vaccination markedly lowers the risk of severe COVID-19 and related respiratory deterioration in COPD, while recently licensed RSV vaccines offer a novel opportunity to prevent RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease and potentially reduce exacerbation risk. Patient populations most likely to benefit from vaccination include frequent exacerbators, older adults, individuals with severe airflow limitation, multimorbidity, immune dysfunction, infection-prone phenotypes, and socially vulnerable groups. Future perspectives include precision vaccination strategies, novel vaccine platforms, coadministration approaches, and interventions to improve vaccine uptake. Vaccination emerges as a cornerstone of ECOPD prevention, with substantial potential to reduce exacerbation burden and improve long-term outcomes in COPD.},
}

Humans
*Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/prevention & control/complications/immunology/physiopathology
*Vaccination/methods
Pneumococcal Vaccines/therapeutic use
COVID-19 Vaccines/therapeutic use
Influenza Vaccines/therapeutic use
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines/therapeutic use
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Respiratory Tract Infections/prevention & control
Influenza, Human/prevention & control
Disease Progression

@article {pmid41871844,
year = {2026},
author = {Mullen, AK and Richardson, ET and Bassett, MT and Darity, WA},
title = {A plan for black American reparations.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {Suppl 1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41871844},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; United States ; *Black or African American ; Politics ; Health Policy ; Health Status Disparities ; COVID-19 ; Socioeconomic Disparities in Health ; },
abstract = {The frequent criticism of a programme of reparations for Black Americans is that, however justified, no feasible blueprint exists for its implementation. We provide a detailed outline of a viable plan for reparations for Black American descendants of persons enslaved in the USA. Central to the plan are monetary payments calculated to eliminate the racial wealth gap, the foremost economic indicator of the cumulative, intergenerational effects of White supremacy. Closing the racial wealth gap can, in turn, contribute significantly to reducing racial disparities in health, including overall life expectancy. By providing a comprehensive and actionable plan, it becomes clear that the primary obstacle to adoption of reparations by the US Congress is political resistance. The article concludes with a discussion of the current political climate regarding reparations in the USA and an assessment of whether there are grounds for optimism for progress in the reparations movement.},
}

Humans
United States
*Black or African American
Politics
Health Policy
Health Status Disparities
COVID-19
Socioeconomic Disparities in Health

@article {pmid41873169,
year = {2026},
author = {Abunijela, S and Greiner, T and Haas, W and Kerber, R and Pütz, P and Schattschneider, A and Schumacher, J and Buchholz, U},
title = {Frequency, dynamics, and duration of faecal shedding in SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals, a scoping review.},
journal = {Epidemiology and infection},
volume = {154},
number = {},
pages = {e44},
pmid = {41873169},
issn = {1469-4409},
support = {//Bundesministerium für Gesundheit/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/virology ; *Feces/virology ; *Virus Shedding ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Betacoronavirus ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/virology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/virology/epidemiology ; RNA, Viral ; Viral Load ; },
abstract = {To estimate illness incidence or prevalence from wastewater data, modelling approaches may benefit from incorporating faecal shedding parameters. We systematically searched PubMed and a public repository on shedding data and included 33 studies that met at least one of our objectives. Among 32 studies, the proportion of SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals with detectable virus in stool ranged from 18 to 100%, with a pooled estimate of 54% (95% CI: 52-56%). Stratification by four clinical severity categories, ranging from asymptomatic to critically ill, showed no significant differences among categories (p-value = 0.49). The proportion of individuals with detectable SARS-CoV-2 RNA in stool was higher in children (61%) than in adults (53%; p-value = 0.02). In half of the individuals who initially shed the virus in stool, it remained detectable for an estimated 22 days post-symptom onset. Three studies documented viral load kinetics, indicating a peak between days 3 and 9. Twenty-five studies reported maximum shedding durations ranging from 2 to 12 weeks. Our review summarizes the frequency, dynamics, and duration of SARS-CoV-2 shedding in stool and may serve as a valuable foundation for modelling efforts involving faecal shedding indicators.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/virology
*Feces/virology
*Virus Shedding
*SARS-CoV-2
*Betacoronavirus
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/virology
*Pneumonia, Viral/virology/epidemiology
RNA, Viral
Viral Load

@article {pmid41873421,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, D and Wang, Y},
title = {The research progress on the role of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in immune regulation.},
journal = {PeerJ},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {e20971},
pmid = {41873421},
issn = {2167-8359},
mesh = {Humans ; *Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase/immunology/metabolism ; Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency/immunology ; Animals ; Autoimmune Diseases/immunology ; Immunity, Innate ; Neoplasms/immunology/enzymology ; T-Lymphocytes/immunology ; },
abstract = {Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), the rate-limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), plays a pivotal role in immune regulation by regulating metabolic reprogramming and redox homeostasis of immune cells. It mediates the production of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) and ribose-5-phosphate (R5P), which are essential for the activation, proliferation, and effector function of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils-specifically promoting T/B cell-mediated adaptive immunity and macrophage/neutrophil-mediated innate immune responses. Abnormal G6PD activity (deficiency or overexpression) is closely associated with the pathogenesis of immune-related diseases: G6PD deficiency increases susceptibility to autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus) and infectious diseases (e.g., hepatitis, malaria, COVID-19) by inducing oxidative stress and immune cell dysfunction; in tumor immunity, G6PD dualistically promotes tumor cell proliferation while regulating anti-tumor immunity via modulating cytoxic D8[+] T cell exhaustion and macrophage polarization. Additionally, G6PD-targeted immunotherapies, including small-molecule inhibitors and gene therapy, have shown promising preclinical potential for treating immune-related diseases. These findings highlight G6PD as a key metabolic-immune hub, providing critical theoretical basis for understanding immune regulation mechanisms and developing novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases, and tumors.},
}

Humans
*Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase/immunology/metabolism
Glucosephosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency/immunology
Animals
Autoimmune Diseases/immunology
Immunity, Innate
Neoplasms/immunology/enzymology
T-Lymphocytes/immunology

@article {pmid41873444,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, T},
title = {Lessons From the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: Implications for Antimicrobial Stewardship for COVID-19 Management.},
journal = {Journal of Korean medical science},
volume = {41},
number = {11},
pages = {e72},
pmid = {41873444},
issn = {1598-6357},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antimicrobial Stewardship ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; Coinfection ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in millions of deaths worldwide and has now become a major respiratory infectious disease. Beyond the direct effects of the viral infection, one of the most significant and concerning issues to emerge is the exacerbated threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by the indirect impacts of COVID-19. Early in the pandemic, widespread empirical antibiotic prescribing occurred despite low bacterial co-infection rates. In addition, azithromycin, whose antiviral effect remains unproven, was frequently used. This high, often unnecessary consumption, coupled with disrupted antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and infection prevention and control (IPC) programs, created conditions favoring the emergence and spread of AMR. In patients with severe COVID-19, multidrug-resistant organisms were frequently implicated in secondary infections, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs). Nevertheless, previous studies analyzing AMR metrics before and during the COVID-19 pandemic have shown inconsistent results. Strategies to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic, such as enhanced surveillance, social distancing resulting in lower respiratory infections, and strengthened IPC and targeted AMS interventions, could play protective roles to inhibit the development of AMR. Additionally, targeted interventions-such as prospective audit and feedback, biomarker-guided antibiotic discontinuation, diagnostic stewardship using a rapid molecular test to distinguish viral from bacterial infections, embedding AMS decision support into electronic medical records, and tailoring interventions to high-risk settings such as ICUs-demonstrated the feasibility of reducing unnecessary antimicrobial use (AMU) even during crisis conditions. Also, vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 may indirectly reduce AMU and AMR by lowering the incidence of severe disease and secondary bacterial infections. Future COVID-19-specific AMS frameworks must integrate these experiences during the pandemic. This review synthesizes current evidence on the interplay between COVID-19, AMR, and AMU, and outlines stewardship strategies to reduce AMR in COVID-19 management.},
}

Humans
*Antimicrobial Stewardship
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
Coinfection
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy

@article {pmid41873445,
year = {2026},
author = {Choe, YJ},
title = {Pediatric COVID-19 in Korea: Lessons and Strategies for Future Disease-X Preparedness.},
journal = {Journal of Korean medical science},
volume = {41},
number = {11},
pages = {e75},
pmid = {41873445},
issn = {1598-6357},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; Pandemic Preparedness ; Adolescent ; Child, Preschool ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had distinct public health and societal impacts on children worldwidely, prompting calls to prepare for the next pandemic by incorporating children's needs. Republic of Korea's experience provides insights into pediatric-focused pandemic response. This review analyzes the impact of COVID-19 on children in Korea and evaluates the national response. This review encompasses the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency COVID-19 response white paper, National Medical Center response report, Ministry of Education and Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education white papers, focusing on pediatric data and policies. Key findings were supplemented with international studies on pediatric COVID-19 epidemiology, vaccination, and educational impacts. Children in Korea accounted for a substantial number of COVID-19 cases during omicron wave, yet severe outcomes remained rare. Surveillance adaptations included dedicated monitoring of pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome through antibody testing. The healthcare system rapidly adjusted to pediatric needs by allowing home isolation for mild cases and by permitting caregiver accompaniment during pediatric hospital isolation. Vaccine rollout for adolescents began in 2021 and for ages 5-11 in 2022, with an initial policy focusing on high-risk children and voluntary uptake for others. In the education sector, Korea implemented remote learning infrastructure, distributing devices and expanding internet access to bridge the digital divide. Korea's pandemic response illustrates the importance of pediatric-specific strategies: surveillance, child-friendly healthcare protocols, risk communication to improve vaccine acceptance, and treating schools and child services as essential infrastructure.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
Child
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19 Vaccines
Pandemic Preparedness
Adolescent
Child, Preschool
Pandemics

@article {pmid41873446,
year = {2026},
author = {Choi, JY},
title = {Severe COVID-19 in the Republic of Korea: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Therapeutics, and Prognostic Models From Nationwide Data.},
journal = {Journal of Korean medical science},
volume = {41},
number = {11},
pages = {e96},
pmid = {41873446},
issn = {1598-6357},
support = {RS-2024-00439160/NRF/National Research Foundation/Korea ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis ; Risk Factors ; Prognosis ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Comorbidity ; Severity of Illness Index ; Female ; },
abstract = {Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has posed ongoing clinical and public health challenges worldwide, with Korea providing a unique perspective due to its comprehensive surveillance system and extensive real-world data. This review summarizes evidence from nationwide registries, cohort studies, and clinical trials in Korea, alongside global findings, to describe the epidemiology, risk factors, therapeutic interventions, and prognostic models for severe COVID-19. Between January 2020 and August 2023, Korea reported more than 34 million confirmed cases, with 38,112 classified as severe and 35,608 deaths, yielding one of the lowest case fatality rates among member countries comprising the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. Severity was strongly associated with advanced age and comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, cancer, psychiatric disorders, and immunocompromised states, including solid organ transplantation and hematologic malignancies. Other risk modifiers included obesity, chronic kidney disease, asthma, and prolonged glucocorticoid therapy. Protective factors included vaccination, regular physical activity, and, in some studies, specific pharmacologic agents. The effectiveness of vaccines was consistently demonstrated, with booster doses markedly reducing hospitalization and mortality, including in high-risk groups such as pregnant women, patients with cancer, and transplant recipients. Antiviral therapies, notably nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and molnupiravir, significantly reduced severe outcomes, while immunomodulators such as dexamethasone and tocilizumab improved recovery in patients with severe disease. Advanced interventions, including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and lung transplantation, were used for refractory respiratory failure, with favorable survival observed in selected patients. Prognostic models integrating clinical, radiological, and machine learning approaches have been developed to predict disease progression, supporting early risk stratification and resource allocation. The rapid generation of evidence on predicting, preventing, and treating severe disease is a critical element of pandemic preparedness. Although COVID-19 has transitioned to an endemic disease, sustaining and advancing the research expertise and infrastructure developed during the pandemic remains essential for responding to future emerging infectious disease outbreaks.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis
Risk Factors
Prognosis
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Comorbidity
Severity of Illness Index
Female

@article {pmid41873447,
year = {2026},
author = {Jang, Y and Jung, J and Peck, KR},
title = {Integrated Clinical and Social Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Korea: A Combined Systematic and Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of Korean medical science},
volume = {41},
number = {11},
pages = {e103},
pmid = {41873447},
issn = {1598-6357},
support = {HD22C2045//Korea Health Industry Development Institute/Republic of Korea ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Pandemics ; Comorbidity ; Delivery of Health Care ; Seroepidemiologic Studies ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) imposed substantial health and social burdens worldwide, disrupting healthcare delivery and challenging public health governance. Korea's early, coordinated response was associated with low mortality and maintained essential services, yet the prolonged pandemic exposed structural inequalities, workforce strain, and psychosocial impacts. To comprehensively understand these multidimensional effects, this review synthesizes systematic and narrative evidence on the clinical, epidemiologic, and societal consequences of COVID-19 in Korea. We conducted a combined systematic and narrative review of Korean evidence (2020-2025). The systematic review included studies from PubMed, Embase, KoreaMed, and KMbase, supplemented by manual journal searches. Eligible studies addressed key epidemiologic indicators, including seroprevalence, mortality among patients with comorbidities, severe outcomes in high-risk groups, and vaccination coverage by comorbidity. Quality was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. We additionally examined government white papers, national reports, policy briefs, and peer-reviewed articles to contextualize epidemiologic findings, synthesizing materials across health burden, healthcare system changes, social consequences, and policy responses. Twenty-four epidemiologic studies and 72 narrative sources were included. Seroprevalence remained below 1% during the early pandemic, increasing sharply after omicron's emergence. Patients with chronic illnesses consistently experienced higher risks of severe outcomes and mortality, while high-risk groups showed elevated odds of intensive care use and complications. Alongside clinical patterns, national data documented substantial reductions in outpatient visits, elective procedures, emergency care, and pediatric services. Burnout and psychological distress intensified among healthcare workers, while prolonged distancing and economic disruption contributed to widening social fatigue. Policy responses and vaccination improved population outcomes, although gaps persisted in communication strategies and addressing disparities across age, socioeconomic status, and comorbidity groups. Korea's experience underscores that preparedness must align clinical efficiency with social equity. Strengthening primary and emergency care, ensuring fair compensation and workforce protection, and maintaining transparent risk communication are essential for building a resilient, inclusive public health system to withstand future pandemics.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Pandemics
Comorbidity
Delivery of Health Care
Seroepidemiologic Studies

@article {pmid41873448,
year = {2026},
author = {Hwang, YH and Park, WB},
title = {COVID-19 Vaccination Strategy and Evidence in Korea.},
journal = {Journal of Korean medical science},
volume = {41},
number = {11},
pages = {e114},
pmid = {41873448},
issn = {1598-6357},
support = {/SNU/Seoul National University/Korea ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccination ; Vaccine Efficacy ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created major global challenges, with vaccination remaining the most effective measure to reduce severe outcomes and mortality. In Korea, six vaccines were approved, and the rapid rollout initiated in February 2021 contributed to comparatively low global mortality. As the epidemiological landscape of COVID-19 evolved and evidence on vaccine immunogenicity and safety accumulated, Korea adapted its vaccination strategies. During the 2024-2025 season, two mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna) and one recombinant protein vaccine (Novavax) targeting JN.1 lineage were administered primarily to high-risk groups. Beginning in October 2025, two mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna) adapted to LP.8.1 variant have been introduced as the updated 2025-2026 season formulations. Although safety concerns arose initially, Korean studies confirmed that COVID-19 vaccines provided strong effectiveness and acceptable safety, consistent with international findings. To enhance preparedness for future pandemics and epidemics, sustaining surveillance systems and maintaining updated vaccination policies are critical to ensure effective public health responses.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccination
Vaccine Efficacy

@article {pmid41873479,
year = {2026},
author = {Drake, JM and Rohani, P and Winter, A},
title = {Can vaccine-preventable disease resurgence be anticipated? Leading indicators and tipping points.},
journal = {Future microbiology},
volume = {21},
number = {3},
pages = {321-327},
pmid = {41873479},
issn = {1746-0921},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; Computer Simulation ; *Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Vaccination ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Vaccination programs have averted millions of childhood deaths, yet vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) continue to resurge as coverage declines and pathogen evolution undermines previously successful vaccines. Anticipating resurgence is a public health priority. We review theoretical and empirical advances in the study of early warning signals (EWS) of epidemic transitions, with a focus on critical slowing down (CSD) - a phenomenon in which recovery from perturbations becomes slower near the epidemic threshold. We summarize the mechanisms that generate CSD, indicators that can be extracted from surveillance data, and the conditions under which signals may be detectable. We then examine case studies to illustrate the opportunities and challenges of applying EWS to VPD resurgence. Theory and computer simulations show that CSD can precede both elimination and resurgence, with increases in variance and autocorrelation calculated from disease surveillance reports emerging as consistent indicators. Empirical evidence supports this potential, though performance depends on noise structure, seasonality, spatial clustering, and outbreak responses. Case studies highlight both successful applications and contexts where signals were weak or absent. EWS offer a promising framework for anticipating VPD resurgence, but further research is required to refine methods, integrate mechanistic and social-behavioral drivers, and evaluate applicability across pathogens and settings.},
}

Humans
*Vaccine-Preventable Diseases/epidemiology/prevention & control
Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
Computer Simulation
*Vaccines/administration & dosage
Vaccination
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology/prevention & control

@article {pmid41873550,
year = {2025},
author = {Smatana, M and Löffler, Ľ and Pažitný, P and Kandilaki, D and Shuftan, N},
title = {Slovakia: Health System Review.},
journal = {Health systems in transition},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {1-300},
pmid = {41873550},
issn = {1817-6127},
mesh = {Slovakia/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration/economics ; *Health Care Reform/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Life Expectancy ; Health Expenditures ; Universal Health Insurance/organization & administration ; Public Health Infrastructure ; },
abstract = {This analysis of the Slovak health system reviews developments in governance, organization, financing and delivery of care, health reforms and health system performance. Slovakia, a central European country with a population of 5.4 million, continues to face significant health and health care system challenges. Slovakia's health system is founded on universal coverage with compulsory health insurance, a broad benefits package and a competitive insurance model. Although life expectancy improved between 2000 and 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic reversed gains, and in 2023 Slovak life expectancy remained three years below the European Union (EU) average. Circulatory diseases and cancer are the leading causes of death, and noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes and mental illness are rising. Nearly one third of all mortality is linked to behavioural risk factors, including poor diet, high smoking rates, low physical activity and obesity. Slovakia's health care system features competition among three insurers - one state-owned (Všeobecná zdravotná poisťovňa, VšZP) and two private. Since major reforms in 2004, the system has decentralized responsibilities and adopted selective contracting to enhance efficiency. However, structural weaknesses remain, particularly in financial sustainability, accessibility and equity. Health spending from public sources was 8.3% of gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, yet out-of-pocket (OOP) payments account for nearly 19% of expenditures, disproportionately burdening low-income households. Workforce shortages, especially in nursing and primary care, are worsened by emigration and an ageing staff. Urban-rural disparities persist, with modern infrastructure and specialized services concentrated in cities. Digital health advancements, such as the National Health Information System (NHIS), aim to modernize care and facilitate telemedicine, though implementation is uneven. Ongoing reforms target cost containment, infrastructure optimization and integration of long-term care (LTC). Key priorities include addressing regional disparities, improving workforce retention, reducing waiting times and enhancing eHealth adoption. Despite universal coverage, Slovakia must address persistent gaps in health outcomes, resource distribution and system resilience to meet the needs of its population.},
}

Slovakia/epidemiology
Humans
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration/economics
*Health Care Reform/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology
Life Expectancy
Health Expenditures
Universal Health Insurance/organization & administration
Public Health Infrastructure

@article {pmid41873735,
year = {2026},
author = {Ali, T and McConnell, A and Gill, CR and Powell, T and Stangl, KA},
title = {Healing the Divide: Bridging Physicians and Healthcare Administrators for Value-Based Care.},
journal = {American journal of medical quality : the official journal of the American College of Medical Quality},
volume = {41},
number = {3},
pages = {151-159},
doi = {10.1097/JMQ.0000000000000299},
pmid = {41873735},
issn = {1555-824X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Value-Based Health Care/organization & administration ; *Physicians/psychology/organization & administration ; Burnout, Professional/prevention & control ; *Hospital Administrators/organization & administration/psychology ; Organizational Culture ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; United States ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Misalignment between physicians and hospital administrators has long challenged US healthcare systems. The COVID-19 pandemic magnified these tensions, with physicians reporting increased burnout and administrators grappling with severe financial pressures. This narrative review synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed studies, national surveys, organizational case examples, and policy reports to evaluate physician-administrator relationships. The analysis identifies 6 thematic areas: shared vision and transparency, governance engagement, incentive alignment, administrative burden, physician well-being, technology and innovation, and organizational trust and culture. The literature consistently documents the persistence of misalignment: physicians cite loss of autonomy and administrative overload, while administrators must manage costs and ensure compliance. Evidence from health systems such as Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and rural hospitals demonstrates that structured engagement strategies can mitigate these divides. Bridging the physician-administrator divide is critical for value-based care. In rural areas where hospital closures and workforce shortages are acute, collaborative models are urgently needed. The proposed framework highlights actionable strategies to reduce burnout, enhance retention, and strengthen patient-centered outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Value-Based Health Care/organization & administration
*Physicians/psychology/organization & administration
Burnout, Professional/prevention & control
*Hospital Administrators/organization & administration/psychology
Organizational Culture
*COVID-19/epidemiology
United States
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41873998,
year = {2026},
author = {Goh, GK and Foster, JA and Uversky, VN},
title = {Clues to Long COVID Linked to Virulence and Infectivity Found in Shell Proteins.},
journal = {Advances in respiratory medicine},
volume = {94},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41873998},
issn = {2543-6031},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; Virulence ; Animals ; *COVID-19/virology ; *Betacoronavirus/pathogenicity ; Pandemics ; *Pneumonia, Viral/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Clinical, experimental, and computational evidence of COVID-19 virulence and infectivity has been linked to SARS-CoV-2 shell disorder. A strong link was first discovered using an AI disorder-predicting tool, which detected an unusually hard (low disorder) outer shell among all SARS-CoV-2-related viruses but not in the 2003 SARS-CoV-1. This could account for the high infectivity found in SARS-CoV-2-but not in SARS-CoV-1-as it is believed that hard shells protect viral particles from the onslaught of the antimicrobial enzymes present in the respiratory system and saliva. As a result, much larger quantities of particles are shed by COVID-19 patients. Abnormally hard outer shells (M) are associated with burrowing animals, e.g., pangolins, and SARS-CoV-2 likely acquired these shells due to its long-term evolutionary interactions with pangolins. As for virulence, the inner shell of SARS-CoV-2 (N) has been found to exhibit lower disorder than that of SARS-CoV-1. This lower disorder is consistent with the fact that SARS-CoV-2 is less virulent than SARS-CoV-1, as higher disorder in the inner shell is associated with more efficient protein-protein binding during replication. The link between N/M disorder and virulence or infectivity falls under the umbrella of shell disorder models (SDMs), which can connect virulence, infectivity, and long COVID under one coherent concept. Evidence of the reliability and reproducibility of SDMs as applied to COVID-19 is examined. The hard M that is resisting the antimicrobial enzymes in the respiratory system can be extended to immunological enzymes, especially those found in phagocytes such as macrophages, which can therefore become a reservoir for the virus.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
Virulence
Animals
*COVID-19/virology
*Betacoronavirus/pathogenicity
Pandemics
*Pneumonia, Viral/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/virology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41874029,
year = {2026},
author = {Benucci, M and Cioffi, E and Li Gobbi, F and Cassarà, EAM and Terenzi, R and Russo, E and Grossi, V and Lari, B and Infantino, M and Manfredi, M},
title = {Dermatomyositis with Anti-MDA5 Autoantibodies After SARS-CoV-2 mRNA Vaccination Treated with Tofacitinib: Integrating Literature Evidence and a Novel Observation.},
journal = {Antibodies (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {15},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41874029},
issn = {2073-4468},
abstract = {COVID-19 mRNA vaccines activate type I interferon pathways and in genetically or immunologically predisposed individuals may trigger autoimmune responses, including autoantibodies against melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5). Although cases of dermatomyositis (DM), particularly anti-MDA5-positive DM, have been increasingly reported after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination, its clinical spectrum and management remain incompletely defined. We conducted a narrative review of the literature on post-vaccination dermatomyositis, focusing on clinical features, autoantibody profiles, therapeutic approaches, and outcomes. The review was enriched by the inclusion of a new case: a 60-year-old woman who developed anti-MDA5-positive dermatomyositis two weeks after receiving her fourth dose of the BNT162b2 (Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine. She presented predominantly with cutaneous and articular manifestations in the absence of interstitial lung disease. Treatment with oral prednisone, intravenous alprostadil, and the Janus kinase inhibitor tofacitinib resulted in marked clinical improvement. This case, together with the literature review, illustrates both typical and atypical presentations of vaccine-associated anti-MDA5 DM, highlights diagnostic challenges without lung involvement, and suggests JAK inhibition as a potential therapeutic option, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of post-vaccination dermatomyositis.},
}

@article {pmid41874324,
year = {2026},
author = {Stoop, MHP and Driessen, GJA and Cohen, AF and Kruizinga, MD},
title = {Digital diagnostics, biomarkers and therapeutics in an evolving healthcare system: From promise to practice.},
journal = {British journal of clinical pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/bcp.70527},
pmid = {41874324},
issn = {1365-2125},
abstract = {Health care is shifting towards a digital-guided system, integrating digital diagnostics, biomarkers and therapeutics in many care pathways. However, despite rapid technological advancement and preliminary adoption accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant implementation gap persists. This narrative review explores the causes of this gap, highlighting several examples from early development to final implementation. These show that technical validation alone is insufficient. Success depends on alignment with clinical need, robust external validation, patient empowerment and sustainable funding models. Furthermore, other systemic barriers include data privacy concerns and lack of transparency by commercial companies. To improve adoption and translate promise to practice, more international alignment of regulations and international collaboration is needed. Lessons must be learned from promising initiatives that did not reach clinical care, as much as from their successful counterparts. Ultimately, a comprehensive redesign of healthcare will be undertaken, with digital diagnostics and therapeutics both embedded as critical components rather than add-ons. This demands a multi-stakeholder effort involving governments, regulatory bodies, insurance providers, industry, research funders, hospital leadership, clinicians and, most importantly, patients.},
}

@article {pmid41874331,
year = {2026},
author = {Mathias, K and de Rezende, VL and Dal Bó Tiscoski, A and Dallefe, L and Dal-Pizzol, F and Barichello, T and Petronilho, F},
title = {From lungs to brain: the neuroimmune impact of respiratory microbiota.},
journal = {Expert review of respiratory medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-10},
doi = {10.1080/17476348.2026.2648109},
pmid = {41874331},
issn = {1747-6356},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The bidirectional communication between the lungs and the central nervous system, known as the lung-brain axis, has emerged as an important framework for understanding systemic mechanisms influencing neurological health. Increasing evidence indicates that pulmonary inflammation, respiratory microbiota alterations, and environmental exposures can modulate neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier integrity, and microglial activation.

AREAS COVERED: This review summarizes current experimental and clinical evidence describing the molecular, microbial, and neuroimmune mechanisms underlying the lung-brain axis. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of the respiratory microbiota across the upper and lower airways and its interaction with immune signaling pathways. In addition, the neurological consequences of pulmonary diseases and infections, including asthma and COVID-19, are discussed, highlighting neuroanatomical, humoral, and immunological routes linking pulmonary and brain physiology.

EXPERT OPINION: Emerging data suggest that the respiratory system functions as an immunometabolic interface capable of influencing neuroimmune regulation and brain function. Integrative approaches combining respiratory microbiota profiling, immune biomarkers, and neuroimaging may help clarify causal mechanisms and support the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for neurological and post-infectious conditions.},
}

@article {pmid41874370,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, C and Dan, L and Wang, X and Chen, L and Yuan, X},
title = {Gut microbiota impact on lung diseases: a mini review of clinical evidence.},
journal = {Infection and immunity},
volume = {94},
number = {4},
pages = {e0043025},
pmid = {41874370},
issn = {1098-5522},
support = {202557-011//Youth Talent Cultivation Program of the China Association of Chinese Medicine/ ; 2023SJZC040//Science and Technology Project of Lishui/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; *Lung Diseases/microbiology/therapy ; Dysbiosis/microbiology ; Fecal Microbiota Transplantation ; Probiotics/therapeutic use ; COVID-19/microbiology ; Prebiotics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The gut-lung axis represents a bidirectional communication network through which the gut microbiota (GM) influences respiratory health. This mini-review synthesizes clinical evidence on the role of the GM in lung diseases. We focused exclusively on human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews, sourced from major databases after duplicate removal. The evidence indicates that GM dysbiosis is a significant risk factor for the susceptibility and severity of various respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis (CF), and infections, such as COVID-19 and pneumonia. Specific microbial signatures and metabolic profiles, particularly involving short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), are associated with disease states and outcomes. Interventions like probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) show promise in modulating the GM and improving clinical parameters, though their efficacy can be inconsistent and influenced by confounding factors. In conclusion, the GM is a promising therapeutic target for lung diseases. However, future research must prioritize large-scale, longitudinal clinical trials and deeper mechanistic investigations to establish causality and develop effective, personalized microbiome-based therapies.},
}

Humans
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
*Lung Diseases/microbiology/therapy
Dysbiosis/microbiology
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Probiotics/therapeutic use
COVID-19/microbiology
Prebiotics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41874968,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, L and Lan, H and Liu, W and Zuo, C and Kemp, GJ and Wang, S and Gong, Q and Suo, X},
title = {Widespread structural and functional brain alterations in COVID-19: a systematic review of MRI studies.},
journal = {Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991)},
volume = {36},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/cercor/bhag022},
pmid = {41874968},
issn = {1460-2199},
support = {82001800//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2021QNRC001//Young Elite Scientists Sponsorship Program/ ; 2022YFC2009904/2022YFC2009900//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods ; *Brain/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/pathology ; *COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Neuroimaging/methods ; *Coronavirus Infections/diagnostic imaging ; },
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has not only challenged global public health but also generated interest in its neurological basis. A growing number of neuroimaging studies have used quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantify brain alterations in COVID-19 patients. We conducted a comprehensive review to synthesize brain regions with abnormal MRI metrics of microstructure and function in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls. Drawing upon 49 studies sourced from PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases, our review showcases structural and functional brain abnormalities across many brain regions in COVID-19. Across multimodal MRI studies, alterations were predominantly in frontal regions, temporal regions, parietal regions, limbic system, and subcortical nuclei. Our findings may help understanding of the neurophysiological basis of acute neurological symptoms and long-term neurological sequelae associated with COVID-19.},
}

Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging/methods
*Brain/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology/pathology
*COVID-19/diagnostic imaging/physiopathology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Neuroimaging/methods
*Coronavirus Infections/diagnostic imaging

@article {pmid41875911,
year = {2026},
author = {Duquenne, P and Liposits, G and Vonnes, CO and Navarrete, E and Serrano, AG and Canoui-Poitrine, F and Marinho, J and Akagündüz, B and Haase, KR and Verduzco-Aguirre, HC and Li, J and Eochagáin, CM and Soto-Perez-de-Celis, E and Ayala, AP and Baltussen, JC and Kantilal, K and Kantilal, K and Wing-Lok, C and de Acha, AP and Meckstroth, S and Perez, ACT and Güven, DC and Zhao, Y and Puts, M and Beauplet, B and Lund, JL and Pilleron, S and , },
title = {Prediction models for overall survival and all-cause mortality risk in older adults with cancer: a systematic review.},
journal = {The lancet. Healthy longevity},
volume = {7},
number = {3},
pages = {100829},
doi = {10.1016/j.lanhl.2026.100829},
pmid = {41875911},
issn = {2666-7568},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neoplasms/mortality ; Aged ; Risk Assessment ; Aged, 80 and over ; Cause of Death ; Prediction Algorithms ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {Mortality risk prediction models can support decision making in older adults with cancer; however, existing models are associated with a high risk of bias. This systematic review assessed published prediction models for overall and all-cause mortality in adults with cancer aged 65 years or older. We searched for publications in Ovid Embase, Ovid Medline, Cochrane CENTRAL, and EBSCO CINAHL on Nov 25, 2022, and updated the search on Feb 24, 2024. We included 250 studies, of which 182 (72·8%) reported both model development and internal validation. 176 (70·4%) of 250 models predicted overall survival; 40 (16·0%) models focused on lung cancer and 30 (12·0%) models on colorectal cancer. 43 (17·2%) models were specifically developed for older adults; 138 (55·2%) models did not incorporate geriatric variables such as comorbidities, nutrition, and cognition. Risk of bias was high in all models, largely owing to inappropriate handling of continuous predictors, univariable selection of predictors, and inadequate control for overfitting. These limitations preclude clinical use. Future models predicting overall and all-cause mortality in older adults with cancer should adhere to existing methodological guidelines and incorporate geriatric domains.},
}

Humans
*Neoplasms/mortality
Aged
Risk Assessment
Aged, 80 and over
Cause of Death
Prediction Algorithms
Risk Factors

@article {pmid41877640,
year = {2026},
author = {Van Aswegen, R and Lanigan, S and Lyne, JP and McDonald, C and Hallahan, B},
title = {The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on psychiatric morbidity and emergency mental health presentations in Ireland: a systematic review.},
journal = {Irish journal of psychological medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-14},
doi = {10.1017/ipm.2026.10185},
pmid = {41877640},
issn = {2051-6967},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To examine the impact the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland on symptoms and functioning in individuals across a range of mental health disorders.

METHODS: A systematic bibliographic search of case reports, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies was conducted between March 12[th], 2020, and December 20[th], 2024, among studies evaluating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on symptoms and functioning for individuals with pre-existing mental health disorders and for those who presented with self-harm or died by probable suicide in the Republic of Ireland. Studies were independently screened by two reviewers according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, with selected variables extracted and summarised. Risk of bias assessments and narrative synthesis of included studies were conducted.

RESULTS: Twenty-eight studies met inclusion criteria. Findings were heterogeneous and disorder specific. An increase in presentations of self-harm, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders to child and adolescent mental health services and emergency departments was noted, with relative stability of symptoms in other cohorts including bipolar disorder and treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Significant symptom deterioration, with poor quality of life and functioning was demonstrated in individuals with emotionally unstable personality disorder both cross-sectionally and longitudinally.

CONCLUSIONS: Most people with pre-existing mental disorders did not experience significant exacerbation associated with the pandemic, with exception of those with eating disorders and EUPD.},
}

@article {pmid41877761,
year = {2026},
author = {Zekis, T and Grammatopoulou, E and Tsimouris, D and Sakellari, V and Patsaki, I},
title = {The effectiveness of respiratory training as a preventive strategy against cognitive decline: a mini review.},
journal = {Frontiers in rehabilitation sciences},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {1778837},
pmid = {41877761},
issn = {2673-6861},
abstract = {Cognitive decline and dementia represent a growing global health burden, particularly among older adults and populations with cardiopulmonary and vascular risk factors. While physical exercise has been shown to exert protective effects on cognition, the role of respiratory muscle training (RMT) remains unclear. The aim of this review was to investigate the effects of RMT on cognitive function and cognitive decline. Respiratory muscle training has been implemented in older adults with elevated blood pressure, post-COVID-19 patients, patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). There is only preliminary evidence regarding the effectiveness of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) on cognitive function, with only one study reporting statistically significant between-group differences (i.e., respiratory muscle training vs. control) in specific cognitive domains. Although respiratory muscle training appears to be a potentially promising intervention for improving cognitive function, the current evidence is limited. Further well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to draw definitive conclusions regarding its preventive role in cognitive decline and dementia.},
}

@article {pmid41877964,
year = {2026},
author = {Chalghaf, N and Chokri, I and Dhahbi, W and Ceylan, Hİ and Bragazzi, NL and Muntean, RI and Stefanica, V and Guelmami, N and Dergaa, I},
title = {Burnout Across Healthcare, Educational, and Professional Populations: A Comprehensive Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of multidisciplinary healthcare},
volume = {19},
number = {},
pages = {564113},
pmid = {41877964},
issn = {1178-2390},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Burnout, defined by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment, is increasingly recognized as a significant threat to staff wellbeing, organizational performance, and patient safety in healthcare and related sectors. Although research on burnout has grown rapidly, the evidence base remains fragmented, limiting understanding of cross-population patterns, measurement approaches, and the effectiveness of interventions.

OBJECTIVE: This scoping review systematically maps and synthesizes the existing literature on burnout among healthcare workers, students, teachers, night shift workers, and other professional populations, with particular emphasis on its implications for staff well-being and quality of care.

METHODS: Following Arksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, systematic searches were conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane from inception to December 2024. Eligible studies used validated instruments to assess burnout. Data synthesis employed narrative thematic analysis and systematic literature mapping.

RESULTS: Sixty-five studies were included (healthcare workers n=29; students n=18; teachers n=9; night shift workers n=6; other populations n=3). Six key themes emerged: prevalence variations (25-72%), with healthcare workers demonstrating the highest rates (35-68%) and strongest associations with compromised patient safety; diversity of measurement tools; intervention effectiveness patterns, wherein combined individual-organizational approaches demonstrated superiority over single-component strategies (effect size d=0.67, 95% CI: 0.42-0.91 at 12-month follow-up); organizational versus individual risk factors; temporal trends including COVID-19 impacts; and implementation challenges. Methodological heterogeneity limited cross-population comparability and the standardization of interventions.

CONCLUSION: Burnout represents a critical occupational health and patient safety concern. This scoping review highlights significant gaps in cross-population research, the need for standardized measurement approaches, and the importance of multilevel, evidence-based interventions. The findings provide essential insights for researchers, healthcare administrators, and policymakers aiming to design sustainable strategies to protect staff wellbeing and ensure safe, high-quality care.},
}

@article {pmid41878230,
year = {2026},
author = {Choi, S and Huda, MN and John, JR and Eapen, V},
title = {The Effectiveness of Non-Pharmacological Interventions in Treating Adolescents and Young Adults with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Long COVID: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment},
volume = {22},
number = {},
pages = {570223},
pmid = {41878230},
issn = {1176-6328},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The management of persistent symptoms for long COVID (eg, fatigue, concentration difficulties, sleep difficulties, loss of appetite and taste, depression, and anxiety) has not been widely studied among adolescents and young adults (AYA). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesise and review evidence on the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions for AYA aged 13-25 years, presenting with long COVID symptoms.

METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in four electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycInfo, and ProQuest) in addition to manual searches for studies from January 2020 to May 2025 (PROSPERO: CRD42024516016). The studies were screened for eligibility, and methodological quality was assessed using the Joanne Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool by two independent reviewers. Findings were summarised using a narrative synthesis approach, and where possible, a meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model with standardised mean differences (SMD) and a 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS: Of the 325 screened articles, seven studies were included, which discussed six interventions. Three studies reported on the effectiveness of three multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs (eg, neuropsychological rehabilitation program, multidisciplinary post-COVID rehabilitation program, micro-choice-based concentrated group rehabilitation), three on alternative medicine practices (eg, forest bathing, traditional Thai Medicine), and one on mechanical therapy (eg, enhanced external counterpulsation). Findings suggested that interventions, although varied in duration and follow-up, were effective in improving mental health (SMD: 0.64, 95%, p<0.0497). There were also non-statistical improvements in fatigue (SMD: 1.74, 95%, p = 0.1307), quality of life (SMD: -1.34, 95%, p = 0.2787), and cognitive function (SMD: 1.05, p = 0.2989).

CONCLUSION: This review's findings suggest that non-pharmacological interventions may effectively treat neuropsychiatric symptoms of long COVID in AYA, ensuring better outcomes. Nevertheless, further research must be conducted with longer-term follow-up and robust methodology to explore sustained benefits, which may better inform treatment decisions.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: This systematic review is registered in Prospero (CRD42024516016).},
}

@article {pmid41878337,
year = {2026},
author = {Kayesh, MEH and Kohara, M and Tsukiyama-Kohara, K},
title = {Therapeutic potential of pycnogenol: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, and anticancer effects.},
journal = {Frontiers in pharmacology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1755175},
pmid = {41878337},
issn = {1663-9812},
abstract = {Pycnogenol (PYC), a standardized extract derived from the bark of the French maritime pine (Pinus pinaster ssp. atlantica), exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antiviral, and anticancer effects. These effects are attributed to the rich profile of polyphenolic compounds, which confer potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Viral infections frequently induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune dysregulation, thereby posing substantial challenges to global public health. Accordingly, the development of effective antiviral agents applicable across diverse viral outbreak settings remains a critical goal. PYC has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral potential against several viruses, including hepatitis C virus, dengue virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. In addition, PYC exhibited anticancer activity by modulating cell signaling pathways, inhibiting tumor cell proliferation, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing angiogenesis. However, further research and clinical validation are required to confirm its therapeutic applications. Accordingly, this review summarizes the current understanding regarding the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer mechanisms of PYC. Moreover, the review highlights its immunomodulatory properties to inform future antiviral and anticancer drug development and therapeutic strategies.},
}

@article {pmid41878421,
year = {2026},
author = {Araújo, M and Gurjar, D and Grandchamp, N and Saha, B and Silvestre, R},
title = {GenIV vaccines: bridging innovation to equity in neglected tropical diseases.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1756570},
pmid = {41878421},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Neglected Diseases/prevention & control/immunology ; Tropical Medicine ; *Leishmaniasis/prevention & control/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *Leishmaniasis Vaccines/immunology ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology ; Animals ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {Recent breakthroughs in molecular vaccinology have defined a new generation of vaccines that integrate synthetic mRNA, self-amplifying RNA, and nanomaterial-based platforms. These fourth-generation vaccines offer exceptional adaptability, rapid design, and strong immunogenicity, as demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their potential now extends to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), where conventional vaccine strategies have failed to deliver durable protection. This review traces the evolution from whole-pathogen to precision molecular vaccines, highlighting the mechanisms, delivery systems, and translational advances that underpin the GenIV paradigm. Using leishmaniasis as a case study, we discuss how these technologies can bridge innovation and equity through technology transfer, regional manufacturing, and global collaboration. By integrating scientific, ethical, and implementation perspectives, this work outlines how next-generation vaccines can transform both epidemic preparedness and the equitable control of endemic diseases.},
}

Humans
*Neglected Diseases/prevention & control/immunology
Tropical Medicine
*Leishmaniasis/prevention & control/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*Leishmaniasis Vaccines/immunology
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
Animals
Vaccine Development

@article {pmid41878671,
year = {2025},
author = {Zhang, C and Jiang, F and Li, J and Shen, H and Wang, H and Huang, Y},
title = {Exploring the role of trained surgical care nurses in cricothyrotomy and other emergency procedures: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in surgery},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {1562039},
pmid = {41878671},
issn = {2296-875X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: There is a severe shortage of healthcare professionals, emphasized in a stark manner by the recent COVID-19 pandemic, where the mortality rate was primarily a consequence of medical professionals lacking the technical know-how for conducting specialized procedures. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the success rates of nurse-performed emergency surgeries, focusing on trauma care (e.g., cricothyrotomy), rural obstetric emergencies (e.g., caesarean section, hysterectomy), and general procedures (e.g., laparotomy, appendectomy).

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across eight major databases (PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, ProQuest) following PRISMA guidelines. Four eligible studies were identified, and data were pooled using a fixed-effects model.

RESULTS: The synthesis of data across the four selected studies revealed a pooled relative risk (RR) of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.78, 1.00) and odds ratio (OR) of 0.80 (95% CI: 0.65, 0.99) about the efficacy in emergency surgeries conducted by nurses. These four studies were the only ones meeting our strict inclusion criteria of reporting outcome data on nurse-performed emergency procedures. An analysis of heterogeneity demonstrated minimal variability among the studies, with a Chi[2] value of 1.54, df = 3, P = 0.67, and I[2] = 0%. The test for overall effect yielded a statistically significant Z statistic of 2.03 (P = 0.04), indicating a meaningful finding. The observed inferences also showed that the surgical procedures exhibited minimal complications.

CONCLUSION: This study suggests that trained nurses can safely and effectively perform selected emergency surgical procedures. While encouraging, the limited number of studies highlights the need for further research to confirm these findings and guide clinical practice.},
}

@article {pmid41879110,
year = {2026},
author = {Isshak, R and Habib, R and Sorathia, AZ and Li, Z and Muppidi, V and Tamimi, M and Manoharan, R and Mercado, I and Modi, JP and Mohtadi, M and Ebeid, K and Ismail, M},
title = {"First Reported Case of Rapidly Progressive Pyogenic Liver Abscess with Isolation of Priestia megaterium: Case Report and Literature Review".},
journal = {Journal of investigative medicine high impact case reports},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {23247096261436690},
pmid = {41879110},
issn = {2324-7096},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Liver Abscess, Pyogenic/microbiology/diagnosis ; Aged ; *Bacillus megaterium/isolation & purification ; Fatal Outcome ; Tomography, X-Ray Computed ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; Immunocompromised Host ; *Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/microbiology/diagnosis ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications ; Drainage ; Coinfection ; },
abstract = {Priestia megaterium (formerly Bacillus megaterium) is a Gram-positive, spore-forming environmental bacillus rarely associated with human infection. In this report, we present a case of a rapidly progressive polymicrobial pyogenic liver abscess with subsequent isolation of P. megaterium in a 69-year-old woman with type II diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, metabolic liver disease, and extensive antibiotic allergies. She initially presented with progressive abdominal pain and fever, with negative early imaging studies. Three weeks later, computed tomography (CT) demonstrated new hepatic abscesses. Interventional radiology drainage cultures initially grew Streptococcus intermedius, guiding targeted antimicrobial therapy; however, the patient clinically deteriorated with recurrent abscess formation despite drainage and broad-spectrum coverage. Subsequent aspirate cultures from the abscess fluid later grew P. megaterium, though this result was finalized after the patient's death on day 12 of admission despite intensive care and source control attempts. This case suggests that P. megaterium, traditionally regarded as nonpathogenic, may be recovered in severe infections in immunocompromised hosts; however, alternative explanations-including polymicrobial infection, antibiotic-mediated suppression of co-pathogens, iatrogenic introduction during drainage procedures, or culture contamination-must be carefully considered. Contributing factors likely included her underlying comorbidities, concurrent COVID-19 infection, delayed pathogen identification, and restrictions imposed by multiple drug allergies. Diagnostic challenges underscore the importance of repeated culture sampling, careful interpretation of microbiology results, and awareness of rare organisms when standard therapy is unsuccessful. This report expands the spectrum of diseases associated with P. megaterium. It emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary collaboration and heightened clinical vigilance in cases of rapidly progressive intra-abdominal infections that are unresponsive to conventional treatment.},
}

Humans
Female
*Liver Abscess, Pyogenic/microbiology/diagnosis
Aged
*Bacillus megaterium/isolation & purification
Fatal Outcome
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
Immunocompromised Host
*Gram-Positive Bacterial Infections/microbiology/diagnosis
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2/complications
Drainage
Coinfection

@article {pmid41879706,
year = {2025},
author = {Boubakri, S and Barkous, B and Ben Lazreg, N and Talbi, I and Touré, M and Ben Saad, H},
title = {Reconsidering isolated FEV1 reduction: A case report of early-stage asthma with bronchial hyperreactivity and literature review.},
journal = {La Tunisie medicale},
volume = {103},
number = {10},
pages = {1525-1530},
doi = {10.62438/tunismed.v103i10.6028},
pmid = {41879706},
issn = {2724-7031},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Adult ; *Asthma/diagnosis/physiopathology/complications ; *Bronchial Hyperreactivity/diagnosis/physiopathology/complications ; Forced Expiratory Volume/physiology ; Bronchial Provocation Tests ; Spirometry ; Skin Tests ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Isolated low forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) spirometric impairment (ILFSI) is characterized by a decreased FEV1 while both forced vital capacity (FVC) and the FEV1/FVC ratio remain within normal ranges. This pattern may hide an underlying respiratory disorder that warrants further examination. Notably, the 2022 European respiratory society/American thoracic society (2022-ERS/ATS) guidelines do not classify ILFSI as pathological, a stance that has sparked some controversy. This teaching report discussed the case of a woman with ILFSI who developed mild bronchial hyperreactivity after undergoing a methacholine bronchial challenge test (MBCT) and exhibited positive skin prick tests (SPTs) for dust mites.

OBSERVATION: A 28-year-old professional interior designer, who has no history of smoking or exposure to wood smoke and allergens, and who previously experienced a mild case of coronavirus disease-2019, consulted a pulmonologist for chronic cough, sputum production, and recurrent sneezing episodes. Asthma was suspected, leading to the performance of SPTs, spirometry, and either a bronchodilator test (in case of an obstructive ventilatory impairment) or MBCT (in case of a normal spirometry) as requested in the pulmonologist referral letter. The spirometry results indicated ILFSI, with a low FEV1 (z-score = -1.74, 79%) while FVC (z-score = -0.97, 88%) and the FEV1/FVC ratio (z-score = -1.35) remained normal. According to the 2022-ERS/ATS guidelines, these findings are considered normal spirometry because of the maintained FVC and FEV1/FVC ratio. The MBCT confirmed mild bronchial hyperreactivity, showing a 20% drop in FEV1 at a dose of 96 µg. Furthermore, SPTs were positive for dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and farinae).

CONCLUSION: The results of this report suggested a possible association between ILFSI and early allergic asthma, indicating that ILFSI should be re-examined in future revisions of the 2022-ERS/ATS guidelines for interpreting spirometric tests.},
}

Humans
Female
Adult
*Asthma/diagnosis/physiopathology/complications
*Bronchial Hyperreactivity/diagnosis/physiopathology/complications
Forced Expiratory Volume/physiology
Bronchial Provocation Tests
Spirometry
Skin Tests

@article {pmid41880671,
year = {2026},
author = {Garriga-Salvó, C and Navarro, E and Lidón-Moyano, C and Arévalo, A and Roca, R and Morera, M and Llistosella, M},
title = {Psychological interventions for individuals with long COVID: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Health psychology review},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-22},
doi = {10.1080/17437199.2026.2646179},
pmid = {41880671},
issn = {1743-7202},
abstract = {Introduction: Long COVID involves a variety of persistent symptoms after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection, affects multiple functional areas and requires multidisciplinary treatment. Objective: This study aimed to explore the available evidence about psychological interventions for individuals with long COVID and their effectiveness in reducing some prevalent symptoms, such as fatigue, anxiety or depression, among others, and improving patient quality of life. Methodology: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Two independent reviewers performed study selection and data extraction using Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed databases prior to March 2024. Data synthesis was performed via random-effects meta-analysis, with heterogeneity assessed using the I2 statistic. Results: Of the 1041 articles obtained, 19 were included in the systematic review and 14 in the meta-analysis. Results showed significant reductions in symptoms of anxiety [SMD = -0.64 (95% CI: -1.18 to -0.10)], depression [SMD = -0.41 (95% CI: -0.73 to -0.10)] and fatigue [SMD = -1.37 (95% CI: -2.48 to -0.26)]. Significant improvements were only registered in self-perceived health-related quality of life [SMD = 7.59 (95% CI: 3.70-11.48)]. Conclusion: Results showed improvements in anxiety, depression or fatigue, highlighting the potential role of psychological interventions in patient recovery.},
}

@article {pmid41880835,
year = {2026},
author = {Alturki, MS and Gomaa, MS},
title = {Medicinal chemistry strategies targeting viral proteases: From classical design to next-generation therapeutics.},
journal = {European journal of medicinal chemistry},
volume = {310},
number = {},
pages = {118779},
doi = {10.1016/j.ejmech.2026.118779},
pmid = {41880835},
issn = {1768-3254},
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Design ; *SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology ; Chemistry, Pharmaceutical/methods ; Proteolysis Targeting Chimera ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Viral Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology ; Peptidomimetics/chemistry/pharmacology ; *Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Viral proteases are central targets in antiviral drug discovery and development because they play essential roles in viral replication and maturation. Although protease inhibitors have achieved major clinical success, traditional design strategies face challenges, including resistance development, poor oral exposure of early peptidomimetics, and off-target toxicity of highly reactive covalent warheads. Classical approaches, such as peptidomimetics, macrocyclization, and covalent warhead engineering, are discussed alongside contemporary strategies, including allosteric modulation and targeted protease degradation via proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTAC) technology. Particular emphasis is placed on how these strategies address key obstacles, such as resistance evolution, selectivity, metabolic stability, and oral bioavailability. Several quantitative case studies have also demonstrated the growing significance of computational tools in contemporary antiviral discovery. For SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), these workflows were enabled by the rapid availability of high-resolution experimental crystal structures of the target protein. The evolution of a weak fragment (Kd ≈ 1.7 mM; ΔG ≈ -3.6 kcal/mol) into a covalent inhibitor (QUB-00006-Int-07) with enzymatic inhibition (IC50 ≈ 830 nM) was successfully guided by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and absolute binding free energy calculations. This was subsequently confirmed experimentally using NMR, ESI-MS, and FRET assays. Furthermore, out of 25 computationally prioritized candidates with Ki values less than 4 μM, 15 active Mpro inhibitors were identified using accelerated free-energy perturbation-based repurposing campaigns. Long-range allosteric pathways connecting the catalytic site to resistance-associated regions and experimentally verified allosteric pockets have also been discovered using dynamic nonequilibrium MD. Together, these integrated in silico approaches enable the early prioritization of high-affinity ligands, mechanistic understanding of resistance, and significant reduction of late-stage attrition in antiviral drug discovery. Through detailed case studies on SARS-CoV-2 main protease (Mpro), Zika virus NS2B-NS3 protease, and Dengue virus NS2B-NS3 protease, the review illustrates how medicinal chemistry principles translate molecular insights into clinically relevant antivirals. Finally, a forward-looking development roadmap is proposed that integrates potency, selectivity, pharmacokinetics, manufacturability, and resistance management toward the goal of broad-spectrum, durable, and adaptable protease-targeted therapeutics development.},
}

Humans
*Drug Design
*SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects
*Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology
Chemistry, Pharmaceutical/methods
Proteolysis Targeting Chimera
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Viral Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology
*Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology
Peptidomimetics/chemistry/pharmacology
*Coronavirus 3C Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism

@article {pmid41881062,
year = {2026},
author = {Safir, AH and Bird, MM and Orczykowski, ME},
title = {Development of effective 3D digital models for first-time learners of musculoskeletal anatomy.},
journal = {Anatomical sciences education},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/ase.70220},
pmid = {41881062},
issn = {1935-9780},
abstract = {Musculoskeletal anatomy is a critical component of allied health curricula. With the ubiquity of technology in the classroom and the recent COVID-19 pandemic creating accessibility barriers for students, there is a need for viable digital resources to enhance learning by supplementing traditional textbook studying. This article describes the creation of an annotated, interactive, three-dimensional digital model and presents preliminary data on its effectiveness for students learning musculoskeletal structures of the hip and knee for the first time. The 3D model was developed in Blender using open-source files and was uploaded to the Sketchfab platform. Eighty-one students in the musculoskeletal anatomy course at a large midwestern university took an assessment to measure their baseline anatomical knowledge, studied the testable structures from either the model or textbook images for 10 min, and took a follow-up assessment. Students in the 3D Model Group saw greater increases from their baseline scores and also reported higher confidence in what they had learned, increased ability to visualize anatomical structures, and greater enjoyment of their resource than students who used textbook images. The findings presented here suggest that creating effective, accessible 3D digital resources is feasible for educators without training in technology-related fields and that having access to these resources can be beneficial to first-time learners of anatomy.},
}

@article {pmid41882484,
year = {2026},
author = {Yeo, HY and Hung, TM and Nghiem, N and Albrecht, S and Turner, N and McIntyre, P},
title = {The Economic Value of Non-pharmaceutical Interventions for Influenza and COVID-19: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Applied health economics and health policy},
volume = {24},
number = {4},
pages = {655-670},
pmid = {41882484},
issn = {1179-1896},
support = {3725363//Flu Lab/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control/economics/therapy ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/economics ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; Cost-Effectiveness Analysis ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) are central to mitigating COVID-19 and influenza, yet comparative economic evaluations remain scarce. This systematic review assessed the cost effectiveness and reporting quality of NPI evaluations across both diseases. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024552613).

METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched five medical (PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, and EconLit) and four health technology assessment databases (NHS HTA, CRD DARE, NHS EED, and INAHTA) up to December 2025, including only full economic evaluations. The search strategy incorporated four domains-'influenza,' 'COVID-19,' 'NPIs,' and 'economic evaluation'-and was guided by the WHO NPI framework, encompassing five domains: personal protective, environmental, physical distancing, travel-related, and educational measures. Reporting quality was assessed using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards 2022 (CHEERS 2022) checklist.

RESULTS: Thirty-three studies (13 influenza, 20 COVID-19), predominantly from high-income countries, were included. School closures, the most frequently evaluated NPI, were generally not cost effective except during severe pandemics or bundled with other measures. Workforce and business closures were cost effective only in high-severity influenza, with inconsistent findings for COVID-19. Social distancing was cost effective for COVID-19 but not for H1N1 influenza. Isolation, lockdowns, and travel restrictions were cost effective only when implemented early. Face masks and hand hygiene, assessed solely for COVID-19, were generally cost effective when implemented alongside other measures. The median CHEERS score was 75.0%, with one study rated excellent.

CONCLUSION: Our review highlights heterogeneity in cost effectiveness by pandemic severity, intervention type, bundling of measures, and timing. Strategies that combined low-cost NPIs like masks or hand hygiene demonstrated better value, while socially disruptive measures like school and business closure incurred high costs with inconsistent cost-effectiveness outcomes. Integration with vaccines or antivirals further enhanced cost effectiveness. Evidence gaps include the scarcity of evaluations from low-resource settings and variability in country-specific value thresholds. Addressing these gaps is essential for guiding efficient and cost-effective pandemic preparedness.},
}

Humans
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control/economics/therapy
*COVID-19/prevention & control/economics
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

@article {pmid41882505,
year = {2026},
author = {Lima, GG and Segati, AF and Oliveira, GS and de Melo, NS and da Cunha, TN and De Gaspari, E},
title = {COVID-19 and Pregnancy: Key Findings.},
journal = {Scandinavian journal of immunology},
volume = {103},
number = {4},
pages = {e70109},
pmid = {41882505},
issn = {1365-3083},
support = {305301/2022-5//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 131308/2021-1//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 132059/2025-8//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; Finance code 001//Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior/ ; 18/04202-0//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 2021/11936-3//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/transmission ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/immunology/prevention & control/virology ; Placenta/immunology/pathology/virology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; Immunity, Maternally-Acquired ; Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control ; Antibodies, Viral/immunology ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {Pregnant individuals were prioritised for COVID-19 research due to concerns about increased susceptibility and limited clinical trial data. This narrative review synthesises evidence on maternal infection, immunological adaptations, placental susceptibility, and antibody transfer following maternal SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Symptomatic COVID-19 during pregnancy increases risks of severe outcomes, whereas vertical transmission remains rare. Placental pathology is characterised mainly by maternal vascular malperfusion and inflammation, with limited evidence of direct viral infection. Maternal vaccination-particularly with mRNA vaccines-induces robust IgG responses with efficient transplacental and lactational transfer, conferring passive neonatal protection. Key uncertainties include optimal vaccine timing, durability of neonatal immunity, and variant-specific responses. Strengthening standardised research and ensuring inclusion of pregnant individuals is essential for global maternal health policy.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control/transmission
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/immunology/prevention & control/virology
Placenta/immunology/pathology/virology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
Immunity, Maternally-Acquired
Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/prevention & control
Antibodies, Viral/immunology
Vaccination

@article {pmid41882567,
year = {2026},
author = {Eliseev, P and Bayrakova, A and Vakhrusheva, D and Kazyulina, A and Samoilova, A and Vasilieva, I},
title = {Prevalence of non-tuberculous mycobacteria in various regions of the Russian Federation.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41882567},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {123022100022-1//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; },
mesh = {Russia/epidemiology ; *Nontuberculous Mycobacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification ; *Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous/epidemiology/microbiology/diagnosis ; Prevalence ; Humans ; Whole Genome Sequencing ; Genotype ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) are increasingly recognized as significant pathogens causing pulmonary and extrapulmonary diseases worldwide, including Russia. Despite a rising incidence, comprehensive data on the geographic distribution and species diversity of NTM across Russia remain limited. This study aims to analyze the prevalence and NTM species diversity in various Russian regions, highlighting regional variability and diagnostic challenges.

METHODS: A systematic review and analysis of published data and regional studies on NTM detection in different regions of Russia from 2010 to 2024 were conducted. Identification methods included GenoType Mycobacterium CM/AS assays, PCR, mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and whole-genome sequencing. Data from multiple regions, including Moscow, Saint Petersburg, the Siberian Federal District and others, were analyzed to assess species diversity and epidemiological patterns.

RESULTS: The species spectrum of NTM in Russia is broad and heterogeneous. M. avium is the predominant species with an average frequency of 30-40%. A secondary group, including M. gordonae (13-25%) and M. intracellulare (12-20%), demonstrates significant prevalence. The remaining species, such as M. fortuitum, M. lentiflavum, M. kansasii, and M. abscessus, exhibit lower but notable frequencies ranging from 3% to 20%. Other species such as M. malmoense, M. xenopi, M. simiae etc. were less common, with frequencies below 5%. Regional differences in species prevalence were pronounced, with M. avium-intracellulare complex dominating in many areas reaching more than 50% of all NTM, while species like M. lentiflavum were more common in specific regions such as the Republic of Komi (44% of all NTM in the region). The COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023) impacted epidemiological surveillance but did not substantially alter species diversity. Advanced molecular techniques, including whole-genome sequencing, revealed subspecies-level diversity, notably among M. avium and M. abscessus complexes.

CONCLUSIONS: This study underscores the significant geographic variability and species diversity of NTM in the Russian Federation. The detection rates and species spectrum depend on the diagnostic methods employed, highlighting the need for standardized, advanced molecular diagnostics. Continued surveillance and molecular characterization are crucial for improving diagnosis, guiding therapy, and understanding the epidemiology of NTM infections in Russia.},
}

Russia/epidemiology
*Nontuberculous Mycobacteria/genetics/classification/isolation & purification
*Mycobacterium Infections, Nontuberculous/epidemiology/microbiology/diagnosis
Prevalence
Humans
Whole Genome Sequencing
Genotype

@article {pmid41882857,
year = {2025},
author = {Nishimura, H},
title = {[The multidisciplinary study, "Aerosol virology/Aerovirology"-A new frontier].},
journal = {Uirusu},
volume = {75},
number = {2},
pages = {121-134},
doi = {10.2222/jsv.75.121},
pmid = {41882857},
issn = {0042-6857},
mesh = {Humans ; *Virology/trends ; Aerosols ; COVID-19 ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/virology/transmission/epidemiology ; *Interdisciplinary Research/trends ; *Betacoronavirus ; *Air Microbiology ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred vigorous research in a field that is old but new, a fusion of aerosol science and virology, each with its own history. I tentatively refer to this interdisciplinary field as "aerosol virology". This review article aims to convey the appeal of research in this field to virologists unfamiliar with aerosol science, covering fundamental knowledge of aerosols. In fact, preceding this article, I had published in the Japanese Journal of Aerosol Science a companion review with this, titled "An Introduction to Aerosol Virology"1）, which included basic virological knowledge for members less familiar with viruses, aiming to spark their interest in the field. To advance "aerosol virology", it is necessary to approach research goals with knowledge of both aerosol science and virology, not just one field. This represents a largely unexplored frontier even for virology. I hope members of the Virology Society will venture into this frontier. Both reviews were written with this aspiration in mind.},
}

Humans
*Virology/trends
Aerosols
COVID-19
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/virology/transmission/epidemiology
*Interdisciplinary Research/trends
*Betacoronavirus
*Air Microbiology

@article {pmid41882974,
year = {2026},
author = {Yang, B and Leader, J and Bowes, B and Aiyer, H and Dunn, H and Adams, SJ and O'Connell, ME and McIntyre, L and Dani, H and Johnson, R and Mendez, I and Lovo, S},
title = {Implementation and Evaluation of Virtual Care in Canadian Health Care Systems: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Telemedicine journal and e-health : the official journal of the American Telemedicine Association},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {15305627261425160},
doi = {10.1177/15305627261425160},
pmid = {41882974},
issn = {1556-3669},
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: This scoping review examined available evidence in implementation and evaluation of virtual care in Canada. Virtual care saw recent uptake due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, to ensure quality of care, rigorous implementation and evaluation frameworks are needed.

METHODS: Peer-reviewed and gray literature were searched to determine extent, range, and nature of evidence surrounding implementation and evaluation of virtual care based on the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute. Although virtual care can encompass synchronous and asynchronous modalities, this review focused on synchronous virtual care, defined as real-time interactions between patients and providers via videoconferencing or telephone. Search included MEDLINE, EMBASE, Psych Info, and CINAHL databases and national and provincial health system, professional organization, and regulatory websites. Inclusion criteria included videoconferencing or telephone and English and French Canadian sources. Citations were screened by two researchers at title, abstract, and full-text levels.

RESULTS: Two hundred and eight (208) manuscripts were included for analysis. High numbers of studies on patient satisfaction, process outcomes, and barriers were identified, with underrepresentation of health and systems outcomes and impact evaluations. There were very few studies examining hybrid care, planetary health, and use of virtual care with equity-deserving groups.

DISCUSSION: This scoping review identified areas of importance for future research, including the use of virtual care in rural and remote regions, inpatient, long-term, and emergency settings, hybrid care, economic and planetary health impacts, and artificial intelligence. As well, enhancing standardization of implementation and evaluation guidelines will optimize quality of care and best practice.},
}

@article {pmid41883910,
year = {2026},
author = {Montoya, S and Alvarez Ramirez, D and Chavarría, R and Zamora, EL and Soto Cordero, CA},
title = {Anesthesia in Patients With Long COVID or Post-infectious Respiratory Sequelae Undergoing Emergency Surgery: Clinical Challenges and Perioperative Strategies.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {e104067},
pmid = {41883910},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has left lasting health consequences that extend beyond the acute infection phase, with long COVID emerging as a complex multisystem condition that poses significant challenges in the perioperative setting. Patients with post-infectious respiratory or cardiovascular sequelae present an increased anesthetic risk due to persistent inflammation, pulmonary fibrosis, reduced lung compliance, and myocardial dysfunction. These alterations predispose to hypoxemia, arrhythmias, and hemodynamic instability during surgery, making preoperative assessment and individualized anesthetic planning essential. Comprehensive evaluation, including functional tests, cardiac and pulmonary imaging, and laboratory analysis, allows early identification of residual organ dysfunction that can compromise perioperative safety. Anesthetic management must be adapted to the patient's physiological condition, emphasizing lung-protective ventilation, cautious fluid therapy, and close hemodynamic monitoring. Regional anesthesia is preferred when feasible to minimize airway manipulation and reduce respiratory complications, while total intravenous anesthesia represents a safer option when general anesthesia is required. Postoperative care focuses on extended respiratory monitoring, multimodal analgesia to limit opioid use, and the implementation of pulmonary physiotherapy and antithrombotic prophylaxis to prevent complications. Psychological support is also recommended to address post-COVID anxiety and fatigue, contributing to holistic recovery. Although clinical guidelines provide useful recommendations, current evidence remains limited and heterogeneous. Further research is required to clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms of long COVID, evaluate anesthetic drug interactions, and develop validated risk stratification tools. Establishing standardized, evidence-based perioperative protocols is essential to improve outcomes and ensure patient safety in individuals with long COVID undergoing emergency surgery.},
}

@article {pmid41884447,
year = {2026},
author = {Panda, PK and Garg, R},
title = {Rethinking COVID-19 seasonality: A summer respiratory virus in the tropics, contrast to influenza.},
journal = {World journal of virology},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {116492},
pmid = {41884447},
issn = {2220-3249},
abstract = {This opinion challenges the conventional view that coronavirus disease 2019 behaves as a uniformly winter-dominant respiratory infection. Analysis of multi-year surveillance data across hemispheres reveals that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 exhibits seasonal divergence, with consistent summer surges in tropical regions, such as India, and winter peaks in temperate climates. We propose that this pattern arises primarily from human (host) behavioural responses to multi-animal tropism to climatic (environment) extremes, which recreate high-risk indoor transmission settings under both heat and cold. Unlike influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (agent) combines thermal resilience, broad tissue tropism, and efficient pre-symptomatic transmission, allowing persistence beyond classical winter bounds. Recognizing coronavirus disease 2019 as a behaviourally modulated (through agent-host-environment triad) seasonal virus may help tailor regional surveillance, ventilation, and vaccination strategies in an era of accelerating climatic change.},
}

@article {pmid41884458,
year = {2026},
author = {Younas, S and Farooq, S and Sahu, S and Mwita, RP and Özdemir, Ö},
title = {Next-generation mucosal vaccines for respiratory viruses: Immunological correlates, platform design and clinical translation.},
journal = {World journal of virology},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {116939},
pmid = {41884458},
issn = {2220-3249},
abstract = {Influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 continue to cause substantial morbidity and mortality. Currently licensed intramuscular (IM) vaccines effectively reduce severe disease and death but only partially suppress infection and transmission because they induce limited immunity in the respiratory mucosa. This minireview summarizes next-generation mucosal vaccines for respiratory viruses, focusing on the immunological correlates of protection, platform design, and clinical translation. The literature was identified through focused searches of PubMed and Scopus, prioritizing human studies and late-stage preclinical data published between 2000 and 2025. We outline the key mucosal immune correlates required to block viral entry at the airway epithelium, including secretory IgA and tissue-resident memory T cells, and review advances across major vaccine platforms. Current clinical experience with coronavirus disease 2019, influenza, and RSV mucosal vaccines is discussed, along with challenges related to immune measurement, delivery optimization, evaluation of transmission outcomes, and scalable global implementation, including heterologous systemic-mucosal prime-boost strategies. Overall, accumulating evidence positions mucosal vaccination as a promising complement to IM vaccines, with the potential to shift respiratory virus control from disease mitigation to prevention of infection and transmission.},
}

@article {pmid41884461,
year = {2026},
author = {Capobianco, M and Cappellani, F and Visalli, F and Avitabile, A and Gagliano, G and Nicolosi, SG and Khouyyi, M and D'Esposito, F and Gagliano, C and Zeppieri, M},
title = {Phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis with viral triggers.},
journal = {World journal of virology},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {117124},
pmid = {41884461},
issn = {2220-3249},
abstract = {Phlyctenular keratoconjunctivitis (PKC) goes beyond limbal nodules. This pediatric ocular surface condition caused by delayed-type hypersensitivity to microbial antigens. The trigger is context-dependent: Mycobacterial antigens in tuberculosis-endemic areas; staphylococcal eyelid disease and rosacea in high-income areas. Although classically bacterial-driven, virus-associated presentations like herpes simplex virus (HSV)-linked phlyctenular disease, pediatric PKC during acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, and molluscum contagiosum-driven keratoconjunctivitis suggest the same antigen-mediated pathway. Photophobia and discomfort are prevalent, and corneal involvement can cause neovascularization, scarring, amblyopia, and perforation. This minireview combines epidemiologic, clinical, and immunopathologic data to identify causes and update care. Practical takeaways: (1) Treat the antigen source (blepharitis/rosacea, chlamydia, parasites) and screen for tuberculosis when risk factors exist. Consider viral triggers when history or exam suggest HSV, recent COVID-19, or eyelid molluscum; (2) Suppress inflammation promptly with a short, carefully tapered course of topical corticosteroids; (3) Use topical cyclosporine as a steroid-sparing agent in recurrent or steroid-dependent disease; and (4) Reduce antigen load with lid hygiene and targeted antimicrobials. Start antitubercular treatment for tuberculosis. If a viral cause is anticipated, add antiviral medication or molluscum lesion eradication to the steroid-sparing regimen. Trigger-focused, steroid-sparing treatment reduces recurrences, vision-threatening consequences, and steroid exposure.},
}

@article {pmid41884491,
year = {2026},
author = {Ayoubkhani, D and Atchison, CJ and Banerjee, A and Brightling, C and Calvert, M and Diamond, I and Eggo, RM and Elliott, P and Evans, RA and Haroon, S and Herrett, E and Nafilyan, V and O'Mahoney, LL and Pinto Pereira, SM and Routen, A and Shafran, R and Stephenson, T and Sterne, J and Ward, H and Zaccardi, F and Khunti, K},
title = {Considerations for epidemiological studies investigating emerging post-acute infection syndromes: Long Covid as a case study.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {94},
number = {},
pages = {103833},
pmid = {41884491},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {Epidemiological research studies into Long Covid, currently defined by prolonged symptoms after SARS-CoV-2 infection, have reported widely varying prevalence estimates. As well as rapidly evolving scientific knowledge of Long Covid, these differences are partly driven by substantial methodological heterogeneity between studies, including the outcome definition of Long Covid; duration of follow-up; study design, period and population; sampling frame; data source; and the statistical techniques employed. Having a robust understanding of the prevalence of and risk factors for Long Covid is essential for informing treatment pathways, service provision and policy decisions. In preparation for the public health response to future epidemics and pandemics, this review outlines key epidemiological and statistical considerations and recommendations when designing studies of emerging post-acute infection syndromes, focussing on Long Covid as a case study.},
}

@article {pmid41886256,
year = {2026},
author = {Bilezikian, JP and di Filippo, L and Bianchi, A and Bikle, DD and Binkley, N and Bouillon, R and Fassio, A and Frara, S and Jones, G and Latella, G and Laterza, L and Graniel, IP and Taccari, F and Trasciatti, S and White, JH and Giustina, A},
title = {Vitamin D in Gut and Systemic Immune Tolerance and in Infections' Risk: An International Evidence-Based Consensus Statement.},
journal = {Reviews in endocrine & metabolic disorders},
volume = {27},
number = {2},
pages = {183-200},
pmid = {41886256},
issn = {1573-2606},
abstract = {Vitamin D, classically linked to calcium-phosphate metabolism and skeletal health, is increasingly recognized as a pleiotropic hormone with effects on gastrointestinal and systemic immune functions. This International Consensus aims to critically evaluate the role of vitamin D in gastrointestinal homeostasis, infection prevention, and immune regulation. A multidisciplinary panel of experts conducted a comprehensive review of the literature, distinguishing between associative evidence from observational studies and causal inferences derived from interventional trials addressing gut barrier integrity, dysbiosis, intestinal cancer prevention, respiratory infections, and autoimmune diseases. While vitamin D deficiency has been consistently associated with alterations in gut microbiota composition, increased intestinal permeability, impaired immune tolerance, and increased susceptibility to infections and autoimmune conditions, evidence from interventional studies remains more variable. Clinical outcomes are influenced by baseline 25(OH)D status, supplementation dose and formulation, timing of intervention, and disease context. Vitamin D supplementation has shown potential benefits in selected settings (i.e., autoimmune diseases and acute respiratory infections), and particularly in cases of documented deficiency. Given its pleiotropic role and favourable safety profile, appropriate screening and optimization of vitamin D represent a low-cost and potentially impactful strategy to support gut barrier function and immune competence. While further research is needed to define these therapeutic applications, maintaining vitamin D concentrations above 20 or 30 ng/mL in individuals at skeletal or immunological risk emerges as a reasonable clinical target. This Consensus Panel supports the integration of vitamin D assessment and correction into routine care for at-risk populations and calls for greater awareness of its extra-skeletal relevance.},
}

@article {pmid41887023,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosso, A and Riccio, M and Renzi, E and Patania, F and Baccolini, V and Kaisy, AM and Marzuillo, C and De Vito, C and Villari, P and Massimi, A},
title = {The role of school-based health education in promoting childhood and adolescent vaccination: A systematic review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {128479},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128479},
pmid = {41887023},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; Adolescent ; Child ; *Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice ; *Health Education/methods ; *School Health Services ; Schools ; Vaccination Hesitancy ; Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Childhood and adolescent vaccination is a cornerstone of public health, yet coverage has stagnated or declined in several regions, partly due to vaccine hesitancy. Schools offer a unique setting to promote vaccination by reaching children and adolescents during formative years. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of school-based health education interventions in improving vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and uptake.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, we searched six databases up to August 2024 for interventional studies evaluating school-based educational programmes targeting students aged 6-18 years. Randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies assessing outcomes related to vaccine knowledge, attitudes, intention to vaccinate, or uptake were included. Studies focusing on COVID-19 vaccination were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using validated tools. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted for HPV vaccination uptake.

RESULTS: Thirty-eight studies (1985-2024) were included: 9 RCTs/cluster-RCTs, 14 controlled quasi-experimental studies, and 15 pre-post studies. HPV vaccination was the most frequently studied vaccine (26/38). Most interventions significantly improved vaccine knowledge, while effects on attitudes and intention were less consistent. Eleven studies assessed vaccine uptake, with most reporting post-intervention increases. Meta-analysis of randomized trials showed a significant effect on HPV uptake (RR 4.18, 95% CI 1.41-12.37), although heterogeneity was high and methodological quality varied.

CONCLUSIONS: School-based health education appears to improve vaccine knowledge and may contribute to increased uptake, particularly for HPV. However, evidence is limited by heterogeneity and risk of bias. More rigorous, theory-informed, and sustainable whole-school approaches are needed.},
}

Humans
Adolescent
Child
*Vaccination/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
*Health Education/methods
*School Health Services
Schools
Vaccination Hesitancy
Papillomavirus Vaccines/administration & dosage

@article {pmid41887024,
year = {2026},
author = {Silva, LL and Lopes, VDS and da Silva, DCB and Nemer, CRB and Sartori, AL and Lima, JC and Freitas, BHBM},
title = {Global overview of vaccine trust: Evidence from a scoping review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {128482},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128482},
pmid = {41887024},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Trust/psychology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology/epidemiology ; *Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology ; *Vaccination/psychology ; COVID-19 Vaccines ; *Vaccines ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Personnel/psychology ; Immunization Programs ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vaccine trust is essential for achieving high coverage rates and sustaining immunization programs worldwide. However, hesitancy intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic and the spread of misinformation has challenged trust in vaccines, healthcare professionals, and institutions. This scoping review maps global evidence on the determinants, challenges, and strategies to strengthen vaccine trust.

METHOD: The review followed the JBI Brazilian Centre for Evidence-Based Health Care methodology and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, with a protocol registered on the Open Science Framework. Searches were conducted in seven databases and additional sources. Studies that directly addressed vaccine trust in any population were included. Data extraction and analysis combined descriptive statistics with narrative synthesis.

RESULTS: A total of 66 studies published between 2020 and 2024 were included, most of them conducted in the United States and focused on COVID-19. Vaccine trust was found to be influenced by perceptions of safety and effectiveness, trust in health systems, professionals, and institutions, as well as individual beliefs and cultural factors. The pandemic increased uncertainty but also encouraged new strategies for community engagement. Health literacy and the involvement of trusted professionals were identified as key elements in strengthening trust. Evidence gaps remain concerning groups such as adolescents, older adults, migrants, and populations in vulnerable situations. Several measurement instruments were mapped, but standardization remains limited.

CONCLUSION: Vaccine trust is a complex and context-dependent phenomenon. Strengthening it requires clear communication, context-specific strategies, active community engagement, and the involvement of healthcare professionals as trusted sources. Future research should include understudied populations, use validated instruments, and assess trust-building interventions to inform more equitable and effective immunization policies.},
}

Humans
*Trust/psychology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/psychology/epidemiology
*Vaccination Hesitancy/psychology
*Vaccination/psychology
COVID-19 Vaccines
*Vaccines
SARS-CoV-2
Health Personnel/psychology
Immunization Programs

@article {pmid41888606,
year = {2026},
author = {Zheng, Y and Li, Y and Zeyneloglu, C and Tian, W and Babayev, H and D'Avino, P and He, Y and Ogulur, I and Bicer, C and Lu, G and Li, Y and Zhao, B and Li, S and Chang, L and Li, M and Liu, X and Huang, X and Cheng, H and Göksel, O and Göksel, T and Agache, I and Khaitov, M and Kudlay, D and Nadeau, K and Cheng, L and Shamji, M and Torres, MJ and Zhang, L and Akdis, M and Gao, YD and Akdis, CA},
title = {Risk and Protective Factors for Infection, Severe Disease, and Mortality in Epidemic Respiratory Viruses.},
journal = {Allergy},
volume = {81},
number = {5},
pages = {1397-1432},
doi = {10.1111/all.70314},
pmid = {41888606},
issn = {1398-9995},
support = {72204214,82400012//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; LTGY24H260001,LQN25H030006//Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; CXTD202501015//Zhejiang Clinovation Pride/ ; BQD2306//Start-up Research fund by The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine/ ; No.2023M743729//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; 2023SKY138//Shaoxing Health Commission/ ; JJKH20221077KJ//Scientific Research Project of Education Department of Jilin Province/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Risk Factors ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/mortality/epidemiology/virology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Protective Factors ; *Virus Diseases/epidemiology/mortality ; },
abstract = {The post-COVID pandemic era has witnessed a concerning resurgence of respiratory viruses, driving a global increase in acute respiratory infections. This trend may stem from relaxed non-pharmaceutical interventions, waning herd immunity, immunological imprinting limiting heterosubtypic protection, or viral antigenic evolution. This review aims to identify and characterize risk and protective factors associated with infection, hospitalization, severe illness, and mortality, while elucidating the drivers of the rising incidence of respiratory virus infections post-pandemic. Evidence on SARS-CoV-2 sublineages, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, adenovirus, human metapneumovirus, human parainfluenza virus, human coronaviruses, and cytomegalovirus has been collected and identified. Identified risk factors include demographic characteristics such as pediatrics and older age, male sex, race (Black, Hispanic, American Indian or Alaska native), preterm birth, and HLA-DQA1, IFNAR2, ST6GAL, and B3GALT5 genetic susceptibility. Behavioral, socioeconomic (low socioeconomic status, crowded living conditions), environmental influences (cold seasons, pollution), smoking, obesity and malnutrition could also exacerbate the risk of infection and adverse outcomes. Comorbidities, such as chronic conditions and immunocompromised states, significantly increase the risk of severe disease and hospitalization. Laboratory indices linked to severe disease outcomes include neutrophilia or neutropenia, lymphopenia, eosinopenia, and elevated C-reactive protein. Viral subtypes, viral load kinetics, vaccination status, and antiviral therapies further delineate risk profiles. Epithelial barrier impairment and underlying chronic airway diseases characterized by type 2 immunity also play a detrimental role in the development and severity of respiratory viral infections. Our findings highlight the need for stratified prevention strategies, which combine universal measures targeting shared determinants with virus-specific interventions addressing unique virological and transmission dynamics. It will provide a critical framework for optimizing precision public health strategies to counter repeated respiratory threats in the evolving post-COVID-19 pandemic landscape.},
}

Humans
Risk Factors
*Respiratory Tract Infections/mortality/epidemiology/virology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/mortality
SARS-CoV-2
Protective Factors
*Virus Diseases/epidemiology/mortality

@article {pmid41888810,
year = {2026},
author = {Lam, CHM and Cheung, KC and Mason, T and Hollingsworth, B},
title = {COVID-19's disruptions to cancer care pathways and widening of health inequalities in the UK: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41888810},
issn = {1472-6963},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted cancer care services in the United Kingdom (UK), potentially exacerbating pre-existing health inequalities. While emerging studies have documented service disruptions, a comprehensive synthesis of how these disruptions have widened disparities remains absent. This systematic review examines the extent to which the pandemic disrupted the cancer care pathway and intensified existing disparities across the UK, identifying key sociodemographic and geographical factors influencing access to services. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL was conducted for studies published between January 2020 and October 2024. Eligible studies included observational and empirical research examining disparities in cancer screening, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the corresponding mitigation strategies. Data extraction followed a structured approach using a custom-developed extraction form designed for this review. Study quality was appraised using a bespoke scoring system, classifying studies as high, moderate, or low importance. Narrative synthesis, following the framework outlined by Popay et al., was then employed to identify key themes and explore relationships between findings. RESULTS: 30 out of 457 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review found that socioeconomic status (SES) emerged as the most significant determinant, with individuals from deprived areas experiencing greater barriers to screening, urgent referrals, and treatment access, leading to poorer patient outcomes. Ethnic minorities, particularly Black patients, faced disproportionate reductions in hospital admissions and cancer screening participation. Age-related disparities were also evident, as older adults maintained higher screening rates but faced greater COVID-19 risks, while younger adults from lower-income backgrounds encountered delays in diagnosis and treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The review highlights that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing inequalities in UK cancer care, with SES, ethnicity, and age emerging as key determinants. Targeted interventions are essential, including the establishment of COVID-free “cold sites”, deployment of mobile screening units, and culturally tailored outreach programmes for ethnic minority communities. Strengthening regional healthcare capacity and conducting longitudinal assessments will be crucial in addressing disparities and ensuring equitable cancer care. Future research should focus on the long-term consequences of these disruptions on cancer outcomes and healthcare resilience. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: The protocol for this systematic review was registered on PROSPERO under the ID CRD42024602280.},
}

@article {pmid41890193,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhu, B and Qu, S and Li, J and Deng, W and Shen, WJ and Chen, J},
title = {The mechanisms underlying COVID-19 induced insulin resistance: a narrative review.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1781679},
pmid = {41890193},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *Insulin Resistance/physiology ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has resulted in a significant increase in insulin resistance and new-onset diabetes among recovered individuals. This review examines the multifactorial mechanisms underlying these metabolic complications, including activation of the immune system and inflammatory cascades, lifestyle changes, nutritional deficiencies, imbalances in amino acid metabolism, alterations in ketogenesis, disruptions in the gut microbiome, psychological impacts, and COVID-19 vaccines. We discuss how these factors collectively contribute to insulin resistance, particularly in the context of COVID-19, and highlight potential therapeutic strategies, such as dietary interventions and ACE2 activators, that may mitigate these effects. Our analysis underscores the need for targeted approaches to prevent and treat insulin resistance in post-COVID-19 patients, emphasizing the importance of understanding the pandemic's long-term metabolic consequences.},
}

Humans
*Insulin Resistance/physiology
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41890586,
year = {2025},
author = {Sadat Hoseini, AS and Divani, A and Nadali, J and Zare, L},
title = {Social Stigma Associated with COVID-19 in Healthcare Workers: A Concept Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of caring sciences},
volume = {14},
number = {4},
pages = {278-292},
pmid = {41890586},
issn = {2251-9920},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Despite the presence of "COVID-19-related social stigma" in health literature, there is no clear definition of this concept in healthcare setting. It is often confused with related terms such as shame, discrimination, and prejudice, leading to imprecise research questions and ineffective evaluations. The aim of this study was to elucidate the concept of social stigma associated with COVID-19 in healthcare workers using Rodgers' evolutionary concept analysis method.

METHODS: Rodgers' evolutionary method of concept analysis was employed to clarify COVID-19-related social stigma in healthcare workers. A literature review was conducted using key terms "COVID-19", "social stigma", and related terms in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, ProQuest databases, and Google Scholar from January 2019 to September 2024. Among 3993 studies found, 46 were selected for analysis. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS: COVID-19-related social stigma among healthcare workers is a multidimensional concept characterized by three primary attributes: Alienation, Humiliation, and Ignorance. The antecedents identified include Fear, Fake news, and the Contagious Nature of the virus. Consequences of this stigma encompass Psychological Issues, Feelings of Worthlessness, Impaired Functionality, and Job Attrition.

CONCLUSION: Social stigmatization associated with COVID-19 exerts significant pressure on healthcare workers. It is crucial to understand the factors that exacerbate this issue. Identifying the dimensions of this stigma can provide valuable insights for policymakers and the media. The implementation of preventive measures, such as clear protocols tailored to the public's educational level and addressing fears of contamination, can improve the situation and reduce the financial strain caused by the loss of healthcare personnel, ultimately enhancing the quality of care.},
}

@article {pmid41890759,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, K and Zhu, S and Zhang, M and Hu, H and Qin, S and Li, H and Zhao, P and Xu, Y},
title = {Convergent hub pathways targeted by IAV, SARS-CoV-2, and RSV in type II alveolar epithelial cells: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic implications.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1781447},
pmid = {41890759},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Alveolar Epithelial Cells/virology/immunology/metabolism ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology ; Signal Transduction/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology/metabolism ; *Influenza A virus/immunology/physiology ; Animals ; *Influenza, Human/immunology ; Innate Immunity Recognition ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Immunity, Innate ; },
abstract = {Type II alveolar epithelial cells (AEC2s) maintain surfactant homeostasis, support distal-lung repair, and contribute to antiviral innate defense. Influenza A virus (IAV), SARS-CoV-2, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) use distinct entry receptors, yet severe disease is repeatedly marked by AEC2 dysfunction, alveolar barrier failure, and dysregulated inflammation. We synthesize cross-virus evidence for convergence on a small set of host hubs: innate sensing and interferon signaling, mitochondria-centered immunometabolism and oxidative stress, post-translational signaling modules, barrier and surfactant programs, and regulated cell-death checkpoints. We summarize structural and post-translational mechanisms by which viral proteins disrupt pattern recognition receptor (PRR)-mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS) signaling, couple mitochondrial injury to weakened antiviral responses, and bias epithelial fate toward inflammatory lytic injury. Where AEC2-specific evidence is incomplete, especially for integrated PANoptosis-like programs, we label these elements as working models and highlight validation needs. We compare model systems used to study AEC2 infection, including ALI cultures, organoids, lung-on-chip platforms, and single-cell or network analyses. Finally, we discuss host-directed therapeutic opportunities along the cascade, separating near-term approaches from longer-term platform strategies such as targeted protein degradation and targeted nanodelivery, and noting constraints in distal-lung delivery, onset kinetics, and safety. This AEC2-centered convergence framework supports mechanism-driven interpretation of severe viral pneumonia and guides broader-spectrum intervention concepts.},
}

Humans
*Alveolar Epithelial Cells/virology/immunology/metabolism
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology
Signal Transduction/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology/virology/metabolism
*Influenza A virus/immunology/physiology
Animals
*Influenza, Human/immunology
Innate Immunity Recognition
Host-Pathogen Interactions
Immunity, Innate

@article {pmid41891493,
year = {2026},
author = {Nakae, A and Matsubara, T and Hattori, T and Ohga, S and Shimo, K and Kumazaki, H and Oi, H and Takeda, K and Sumioka, H},
title = {Telework-related health outcomes in Japan and globally: Implications for avatar-based work standards.},
journal = {Work (Reading, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10519815261434906},
doi = {10.1177/10519815261434906},
pmid = {41891493},
issn = {1875-9270},
abstract = {BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has driven a global shift in teleworking, serving as a real-world experiment in remote labor. As workplaces advance toward technologically mediated environments, including avatar-based systems for remote interaction, understanding the health implications of teleworking is crucial for future occupational health standards.ObjectiveThis review examined the health-related outcomes of teleworking during the pandemic, comparing Japan and other countries to inform health-supportive remote work systems.MethodsA structured narrative review was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed) and IEEE Xplore through January 9, 2026. Studies were included if they examined teleworking in adult workplace environments and reported physical, mental, behavioral, or performance-related outcomes. Data from 67 eligible studies (12 from Japan and 55 from other countries) were analyzed for the physical health, mental health, lifestyle factors, and work performance domains. Cultural and institutional factors were examined to understand the regional differences.ResultsTelework has been linked to musculoskeletal discomfort, sedentary behavior, psychological stress, and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Japanese and international studies have identified these challenges, although the manifestations vary by context. In Japan, inflexible teleworking, inadequate home infrastructure, and an office-centric culture exacerbate negative outcomes, particularly for women and caregivers. International studies have highlighted the benefits of flexible scheduling and organizational support. Cultural norms and institutional readiness mediated these effects.ConclusionsThis review demonstrates the need for evidence-based health standards for next-generation remote work environments including avatar-based systems. We propose recommendations incorporating ergonomic design, health monitoring, organizational flexibility, and cultural adaptation. As remote work technologies evolve, policy frameworks must prioritize worker well-being.},
}

@article {pmid41893739,
year = {2026},
author = {Cui, Y and Liang, Z and Cong, H},
title = {From Design to Clinical Use: mRNA Vaccines for Infectious Diseases and Cancer.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41893739},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {mRNA vaccines represent a revolutionary advance in vaccinology, boasting advantages like rapid development, robust immunogenicity and flexible antigen design over traditional vaccines. This review systematically summarizes the core research progress of mRNA vaccines, including their structural composition with five functional elements and novel subtypes (linear mRNA, self-amplifying RNA, circular RNA) with unique biological characteristics and application value. It elaborates on the immune activation mechanism of mRNA vaccines, which mimic natural viral infection to trigger both innate and adaptive immunity, and analyzes mainstream delivery systems (lipid nanoparticles, dendritic cells, protamine, exosomes, polymers) with their respective performance, advantages and bottlenecks. This review also details the clinical application status of mRNA vaccines in infectious diseases (influenza, rabies, monkeypox, SARS-CoV-2, HIV, parasites) and cancer therapy, highlighting promising preclinical and clinical results of candidate vaccines and combined therapeutic regimens. Additionally, it addresses the current limitations of mRNA vaccines, such as delivery inefficiency, production costs, and cold chain constraints. Finally, this review prospects the future development direction, emphasizing that the optimization of delivery systems, antigen design and production processes will further promote the clinical translation and diversified application of mRNA vaccines in disease prevention and treatment.},
}

@article {pmid41893762,
year = {2026},
author = {Siniscalchi, C and Basaglia, M and Tufano, A and Imbalzano, E and Di Micco, P},
title = {Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT): An Immunopathogenic Model of Dysregulated Vaccine-Triggered Immunity.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41893762},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare but severe immune-mediated adverse event associated with adenoviral vector-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccines. Beyond its clinical relevance, VITT provides a unique human model of vaccine-triggered autoimmunity and immune-thrombosis. This review critically reassesses the immunopathogenic framework of VITT in light of recent evidence.

METHODS: We conducted a structured narrative review of studies published between 2021 and 2025, focusing on clinical, epidemiological, and mechanistic data relevant to PF4 immunogenicity, platelet activation, and long-term outcomes.

RESULTS: Current evidence supports a multistep model in which adenoviral vector components form immunogenic PF4-polyanion complexes that induce high-affinity anti-PF4 IgG antibodies. These antibodies activate platelets via FcγRIIa, amplify complement signaling, promote neutrophil extracellular trap formation, and drive endothelial perturbation, establishing a self-sustaining thrombo-inflammatory loop. Recent longitudinal studies refine earlier interpretations by distinguishing persistent anti-PF4 seropositivity from sustained platelet-activating capacity. Epidemiological data support platform-enriched risk rather than absolute platform exclusivity, with a proposed mechanistic "border zone" for incomplete phenotypes.

CONCLUSIONS: VITT represents a tractable human model of vaccine-induced autoimmunity in which innate immune activation and multivalent antigen presentation converge to break tolerance. Updated evidence clarifies antibody persistence, platform enrichment, and translational implications, while highlighting unresolved questions regarding host susceptibility and long-term immune regulation.},
}

@article {pmid41893763,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, S and Yu, S and Zhang, M and Huang, Y and Tian, B and Lu, J},
title = {From Innate to Adaptive: Paradigm Shifts and Frontier Challenges in Next-Generation Vaccine Design.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41893763},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {82400472//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; },
abstract = {The unprecedented success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic marks a fundamental paradigm shift in vaccinology, moving the field from empirical pathogen modification toward the rational engineering of host immunity. This review synthesizes recent breakthroughs to construct a conceptual framework for understanding how modern vaccines function as programmable immune instructions. We first analyze the innate immune system as an instructional center, where recognition of vaccine components dictates the quality of ensuing adaptive responses. We then examine the germinal center (GC) as a micro-evolutionary engine for antibody maturation, the output of which can be tuned by vaccine design. The discussion centers on three integrated pillars of next-generation vaccines: computationally designed immunogens, spatiotemporally controlled adjuvant systems, and intelligent delivery platforms, emphasizing that their synergy is essential for achieving broad, durable protection against complex pathogens. Finally, we explore how the convergence of systems vaccinology, artificial intelligence, and personalized medicine is guiding the field toward a more predictable and rapid-response future, while also outlining key advances and persistent challenges.},
}

@article {pmid41893791,
year = {2026},
author = {Pjanova, D and Rafeeque, A},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Vaccination, Immune Dysregulation, and Cancer.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41893791},
issn = {2076-393X},
abstract = {Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection induces heterogeneous immune responses that influence both acute disease severity and long-term immune remodeling. A key question in the context of infection and vaccination is whether SARS-CoV-2 exerts direct oncogenic effects or instead acts as a transient immunological stressor capable of reinforcing tumor-permissive pathways. Current evidence does not support classical viral oncogenesis. Rather, severe infection is characterized by early interferon (IFN) imbalance followed by NF-κB-dominant inflammatory amplification, promoting sustained IL-6/JAK-STAT3 and MAPK signaling, chronic cytokine production, metabolic reprogramming, and impaired antitumor immune surveillance. At the molecular level, viral structural proteins modulate host signaling networks. The spike (S1) protein engages TLR2/TLR4-MyD88 pathways, activating NF-κB and MAPK cascades, while the membrane (M) protein reinforces NF-κB-STAT3 circuits linked to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and inflammatory gene expression. These mechanisms intensify pre-existing oncogenic signaling without initiating malignant transformation. Tissue-specific responses are further shaped by IFN competence, renin-angiotensin system balance, and metabolic context. In parallel, immune evasion programs shared by chronic viral infection and cancer, including checkpoint upregulation, impaired antigen presentation, and suppressive myeloid expansion, may be transiently reinforced following severe infection. In contrast, SARS-CoV-2 vaccination induces spatially restricted, self-limited innate activation without sustained inflammatory signaling or persistent antigen exposure. By preventing severe disease and chronic immune dysregulation, vaccination interrupts pathways hypothesized to intersect with cancer biology, with no evidence of increased cancer incidence. Ongoing longitudinal studies are required to clarify the long-term oncologic implications of post-infectious immune remodeling.},
}

@article {pmid41893795,
year = {2026},
author = {Asaad, M and Mustafa, MO and Al-Haneedi, Y and Shalaby, L and Shams Eldin, R and Mohamedahmed, Y and Yassine, HM and Abdallah, AM and Emara, MM},
title = {The Feasibility of Developing a Universal SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41893795},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {ARG01-0521-230249//Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council/ ; },
abstract = {As SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve with increased transmissibility and immune evasion, the need for vaccines that provide broader and more durable protection has become increasingly urgent. The extensive research spurred by the pandemic has accelerated the development of diverse vaccine platforms, including mRNA, DNA, virus-like particles (VLPs), recombinant proteins, and mosaic mono- and polyvalent vaccines. While several of these platforms have reached regulatory approval and widespread clinical employment, others remain under evaluation or in various stages of clinical development. These vaccines have significantly reduced infection rates, severe disease, and hospitalizations, particularly among high-risk group. Nevertheless, the ongoing emergence of novel variants and subvariants has challenged the efficacy of both existing and newly developed vaccines. This evolving landscape underscores the urgent need for a universal SARS-CoV-2 vaccine platform capable of providing comprehensive and long-lasting immunity. In this review, we evaluate current and emerging strategies for SARS-CoV-2 universal vaccine development, with a focus on antigen design, breadth of immune protection, and clinical feasibility. Attention is given to various universal vaccine platforms such as the mosaic polyvalent spike construct, multi-epitope vaccines targeting the receptor-binding domain (RBD), and approaches centered on the conserved S2 subunit of the spike protein. We also discuss strategies leveraging additional conserved viral proteins and T helper (Th) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes from across coronaviruses. By highlighting the advances in these areas, this review provides a framework to guide the rational design of next-generation universal vaccines capable of delivering broad and durable protection against SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}

@article {pmid41893818,
year = {2026},
author = {Kamransarkandi, M and Varyushina, EA and Gorshkov, AN and Stukova, MA},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza Co-Circulation and Co-Vaccination: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Vaccines},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41893818},
issn = {2076-393X},
support = {government contract, grant 125020401358-1//Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza virus are dangerous respiratory pathogens with high pandemic potential. Since 2021, these two viruses have been co-circulating, which implies additional risks of co-infection with both pathogens. Prophylactic vaccination is widely recognized as the most effective way to prevent COVID-19 and influenza and to reduce the severity of these diseases. This review analyzes recent data on the simultaneous circulation of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 viruses worldwide, including epidemiological data and the pathogenetic mechanisms of co-infection. Next, we focus on current approaches to simultaneous and combined vaccination against influenza and COVID-19. We outline the types of vaccines and summarize the available findings on the effectiveness and safety of co-vaccination.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials to identify data relevant to SARS-CoV-2 and influenza co-circulation and dual vaccination.

RESULTS: Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 cause similar symptoms, and co-infection can significantly enhance the risks of pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome progressing with a poor outcome, especially among children and the elderly. A range of influenza and COVID-19 vaccines built on different technological platforms is currently available on the market, with proven effectiveness, immunogenicity, and safety. A co-vaccination approach is more convenient for patients and is associated with better response to treatment, while also improving vaccine coverage and compliance and offering significant resource savings for healthcare systems.

CONCLUSIONS: The concurrent circulation of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses presents a growing public health challenge. Simultaneous and combination vaccination strategies have emerged as effective tools to streamline immunization, enhance protection, and reduce healthcare burden. Future studies should elucidate the mechanisms of the exacerbation of respiratory disease caused by co-infection, as well as the optimal strategies for co-administering influenza and COVID-19 vaccines for long-term control of seasonal and potentially pandemic respiratory viruses.},
}

@article {pmid41894963,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, Y and Fan, Z and Wang, Y and Liu, Y and Yang, B},
title = {A review of UVC air disinfection for built environments: Inactivation mechanisms, kinetic models, and influencing determinants.},
journal = {Journal of environmental management},
volume = {404},
number = {},
pages = {129461},
doi = {10.1016/j.jenvman.2026.129461},
pmid = {41894963},
issn = {1095-8630},
mesh = {*Ultraviolet Rays ; *Disinfection/methods ; *Air Microbiology ; Kinetics ; Humans ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly heightened public awareness of air quality and its implications for human health, propelling air sterilization technologies to the forefront research. This Review synthesizes recent progress in ultraviolet C (UVC)-based air disinfection, integrating inactivation mechanisms, irradiance distribution models and microbial inactivation kinetics. We compare major UVC light sources and examine how optical properties, spatial deployment and environmental conditions govern dose delivery and disinfection efficacy. Key physical and biological factors-including wavelength, airflow, humidity and microbial heterogeneity-are discussed in the context of predictive modelling and system optimization. We highlight critical limitations related to safety, penetration depth and energy efficiency, and outline future directions centred on far-UVC technologies, solid-state light sources and intelligent control strategies. Together, this Review provides a conceptual framework for the rational design and safe implementation of UVC air disinfection systems in public and built environments.},
}

*Ultraviolet Rays
*Disinfection/methods
*Air Microbiology
Kinetics
Humans
COVID-19/prevention & control

@article {pmid41895046,
year = {2026},
author = {Tscherne, A and Krammer, F},
title = {Seven decades after the Asian influenza pandemic: A historical review about immunity and vaccines against H2N2.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {79},
number = {},
pages = {128467},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128467},
pmid = {41895046},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza Vaccines/immunology ; *Influenza A Virus, H2N2 Subtype/immunology ; *Influenza, Human/prevention & control/epidemiology/immunology/history ; History, 20th Century ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; History, 21st Century ; Animals ; Asia/epidemiology ; Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/immunology ; Neuraminidase/immunology ; Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype/immunology ; Protein Subunit Vaccines ; },
abstract = {In 1957, a reassortant influenza A virus (IAV) H2N2 subtype emerged in humans and encountered a population that was antigenically naïve to this subtype. The lack of pre-existing immunity to the H2 hemagglutinin (HA) facilitated efficient human-to-human transmission, and by the end of the Summer of 1957, most countries around the world reported increasing influenza cases caused by the new influenza virus subtype. The pandemic lasted until 1958, resulting in millions of infections globally, with 1-4 million estimated deaths. The first vaccines targeting specifically the H2N2 subtype were available in autumn 1957, but their limited immunogenicity hampered a successful fight against the "Asian influenza pandemic". After the pandemic, H2N2 became seasonal in the following years. Most individuals developed immunity against both the H2 HA and N2 neuraminidase (NA) proteins of the virus, and vaccines administered in the early 1960s successfully boosted this immunity. In 1968, the circulating H2N2 was replaced by the H3N2 subtype, and individuals with pre-existing N2 immunity were partially cross-protected against severe H3N2 infection, as the two N2 NAs were antigenically similar. Since the disappearance of H2N2 from the human population in 1968, global H2 immunity has been decreasing. This raises concerns about a possible re-emergence of the H2 subtype from animal reservoirs, where the virus has circulated for decades, into the human population. As preparedness for future pandemics, research on H2-specific vaccines is currently ongoing, with several candidates being tested in preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials. In contrast to 1957, vaccine technology platforms, but also the assays used to assess vaccine immunogenicity, and efficacy, have significantly improved. This review aims to summarize the key historical milestones of the Asian influenza pandemic, the impact of H2N2 immunity during and after the 1957 pandemic, the immunogenicity of H2N2-specific vaccines in both a pandemic and pre-pandemic situation, and H2N2-specific antiviral treatment.},
}

Humans
*Influenza Vaccines/immunology
*Influenza A Virus, H2N2 Subtype/immunology
*Influenza, Human/prevention & control/epidemiology/immunology/history
History, 20th Century
*Pandemics/prevention & control
History, 21st Century
Animals
Asia/epidemiology
Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/immunology
Neuraminidase/immunology
Influenza A Virus, H3N2 Subtype/immunology
Protein Subunit Vaccines

@article {pmid41895350,
year = {2026},
author = {Karthik S, S and Jadhav, P and Paul, A and Kumar, R and Paul, D and Bose, S},
title = {Understanding gut microbiota dysbiosis as a plausible link between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), viral infections, and lifestyle diseases.},
journal = {Microbial pathogenesis},
volume = {215},
number = {},
pages = {108466},
doi = {10.1016/j.micpath.2026.108466},
pmid = {41895350},
issn = {1096-1208},
mesh = {Humans ; *Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/microbiology/complications ; *Dysbiosis/complications/microbiology ; *Virus Diseases/complications/microbiology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology ; Life Style ; Inflammation ; Obesity ; },
abstract = {Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a multifactorial disorder which is influenced by intermittent hypoxia, sleep fragmentation, and systemic inflammation. Recent evidence suggests that lifestyle diseases and viral infections further exacerbate OSA severity through common inflammatory and metabolic pathways. Parallelly, gut dysbiosis has gained recognition as a key mediator which links respiratory, metabolic, and infectious disease processes via the gut-lung axis. This review explores the convergent role of gut microbial dysbiosis across OSA, lifestyle-associated comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease and viral infections including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, dengue, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), and SARS-CoV-2. Across these conditions, a recurring pattern of reduced beneficial commensals (e.g., Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Roseburia, Akkermansia muciniphila) and a noted increase of pro-inflammatory taxa (e.g., Escherichia, Streptococcus, Enterobacteriaceae) has been observed. It contributes to epithelial barrier breakdown, endotoxemia, metabolic dysfunction, and immune dysregulation. In OSA patients, intermittent hypoxia is observed that causes gut barrier impairment and microbial translocation, thus amplifying systemic inflammation. Similarly, viral infections reshape the gut ecology, bringing adverse effects to host immunity and respiratory outcomes. The review highlights upon the therapeutic potentials of prebiotics and probiotics supplementation for modulating gut dysbiosis. It discusses the role of these therapeutic interventions in improving metabolic homeostasis, reducing inflammation, and potentially mitigating OSA-related complications. Collectively, this analysis highlights gut dysbiosis as a plausible unifying mechanism connecting lifestyle diseases, viral infections, and OSA, presenting a compelling avenue for integrated, microbiome-targeted interventions.},
}

Humans
*Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/microbiology/complications
*Dysbiosis/complications/microbiology
*Virus Diseases/complications/microbiology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome/physiology
Life Style
Inflammation
Obesity

@article {pmid41895458,
year = {2026},
author = {Fehrer, A and Windzio, L and Schoening, S and Steiner, S and Aschenbrenner, AC and Babel, N and Behrends, U and Bellmann-Strobl, J and Cammà, G and Cash, A and Doehner, W and den Dunnen, J and Fluge, Ø and Franke, C and Hoffmann, K and Kedor, C and Kim, L and Löhden, W and Mella, O and Mihatsch, LL and Peluso, MJ and Puta, C and Putrino, D and Ramoji, A and Sato, W and Sawitzki, B and Schlieper, G and Schoenfeld, Y and Seifert, M and Sigurdsson, F and Slaghekke, A and Sommerfelt, K and Sotzny, F and Stein, E and Steinacker, JM and Stingl, M and Systrom, DM and Tronstad, KJ and Wirth, K and Wörmann, B and Wüst, RCI and Yamamura, T and Scheibenbogen, C},
title = {Expert perspectives on Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome - Insights from the 3[rd] International Conference of the Charité Fatigue Center.},
journal = {Autoimmunity reviews},
volume = {25},
number = {5},
pages = {104043},
doi = {10.1016/j.autrev.2026.104043},
pmid = {41895458},
issn = {1873-0183},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/therapy/diagnosis/immunology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex, multisystemic disorder mostly triggered by viral infections, with core symptoms including post-exertional malaise (PEM), fatigue, pain, and cognitive dysfunction. Its prevalence has increased significantly in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Despite its severity and impact on patients' quality of life, ME/CFS remains poorly understood. On May 12 and 13, 2025, the 3[rd] International Conference hosted by the Charité Fatigue Center brought together nearly 200 researchers from various disciplines on-site, and around 3,700 participants online to discuss recent advances in ME/CFS research, diagnostics, clinical care, and therapeutic trials. The program featured 33 lectures by international experts on key topics such as post-COVID syndrome (PCS), care structures, and pathophysiological mechanisms including cardiovascular dysregulation, immune dysregulation, autoimmune mechanisms, and metabolic dysfunction. In addition, results from clinical trials addressing disease mechanisms, including those specifically targeting autoantibodies, were presented. While public awareness and funding opportunities have increased in the wake of the pandemic and the emergence of PCS, ME/CFS remains severely underresearched. Sustained and adequately funded research efforts are urgently required to advance understanding, identify diagnostic markers, and develop targeted therapeutic interventions.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/therapy/diagnosis/immunology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Quality of Life

@article {pmid41895795,
year = {2026},
author = {Farag, NH and Ozen, A and Spaulding, AB and Khan, G and Barbouche, MR and Khan, MA and Zalloua, P and Al-Mahruqi, S and Zaher, W and Almayahi, ZK and Alsheikh-Ali, A and Burke, H and Sayegh, MH},
title = {Lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic: Middle East and North Africa regional perspective for future preparedness.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {41895795},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; Africa, Northern/epidemiology ; Middle East/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Pandemic Preparedness ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Public Health ; Public Health Infrastructure ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical gaps in preparedness and response capacities globally. These gaps were evident in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, as the region faces unique challenges due to ongoing humanitarian crises, political instability and large-scale religious gatherings, which further exacerbate the risk of spread of infectious diseases.In April 2024, a conference hosted by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention MENA Regional Office and National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, in collaboration with the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, brought together 200 scientists and public health professionals from 16 countries to discuss lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic and strategies to strengthen future preparedness and response. This report presents the key barriers to regional collaboration and data sharing identified during the conference, along with the proposed solutions, including establishing regional collaboration platforms, increasing public-private partnerships, operationalising the one health approach and leveraging technological advances.Reflections on the global pandemic response emphasise the need for improved communication, preparedness extending beyond the health sector and distribution of resources. The collective insights and recommendations in this report aim to provide a roadmap for strengthening emergency preparedness and response in the MENA region and globally, ensuring improved readiness for future public health emergencies.},
}

Humans
Africa, Northern/epidemiology
Middle East/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Pandemic Preparedness
*Pandemics/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Public Health
Public Health Infrastructure

@article {pmid41896064,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, MM and Talbot, TR},
title = {The Role of Infection Prevention in Monitoring and Preventing Healthcare-Associated Viral Respiratory Infection.},
journal = {Infectious disease clinics of North America},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.idc.2026.01.012},
pmid = {41896064},
issn = {1557-9824},
abstract = {Health care-associated viral respiratory infections are common and cause increased patient morbidity and mortality. Although the threat of viral respiratory infection was underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory viruses continue to have a significant impact in health care settings. Studies report decreased nosocomial transmission when aggressive infection control measures are implemented with more success using a multicomponent approach. This review focuses on the epidemiology, transmission, and role of infection prevention in the control of health care-associated respiratory viral infections.},
}

@article {pmid41897014,
year = {2026},
author = {Berg, A and Richter, C and Meyer, G},
title = {Internationally studied parameters related to the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes: a scoping review.},
journal = {Systematic reviews},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41897014},
issn = {2046-4053},
mesh = {*Nursing Homes/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Nursing Home Residents ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Nursing homes were severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Standardised parameters are essential to understand and monitor the unintended consequences of pandemic control measures and changes in work processes. In this scoping review, we aimed to identify COVID-19-related parameters studied in nursing homes that could form a minimum data set suitable for database development. We focused on the perspectives of all interest-holders: facilities, residents, their relatives and nursing home staff.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE and CINAHL and included quantitative studies published in English since the beginning of the pandemic (2020 to 2024). The extracted parameters were initially categorised according to five dimensions: pandemic-related data, facility level, staff level, residents and relatives. Within each dimension, the original terms were compared and inductively organised into (sub-)categories based on conceptual similarities, with synonymous terms subsequently standardised.

RESULTS: From 82 included articles, 96 different parameters related to COVID-19 in nursing homes were identified. Infection and mortality rates emerged as the pandemic-related data most often reported, particularly within this dimension but also across all dimensions. However, we found a broad range of resident-related parameters. Our most often identified facility-related parameters include the number of staff and the provision of personal protective equipment. Staff-related parameters most often studied were personal burden and stress. Only a few parameters (n = 9) were considered for relatives.

CONCLUSIONS: The diversity of the reported parameters indicates that a comprehensive database is required to adequately assess a pandemic situation in this vulnerable population. In terms of pandemic preparedness, our overview of the reported parameters offers a basis for the development of country- and context-specific data capture approaches.},
}

*Nursing Homes/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Nursing Home Residents

@article {pmid41897224,
year = {2026},
author = {Guillari, A and Abagnale, M and Palazzo, C and Fulco, MA and Rea, T and Giordano, V},
title = {Nurse Retention in Hospitals: A Multilevel Integrative Review of Organizational Determinants.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {41897224},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Background/Objectives: Nurse retention remains a major global challenge for healthcare systems, intensified by workforce aging, rising care complexity, and the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite extensive research, the evidence on nurse retention remains fragmented and frequently focuses on isolated determinants. This review aimed to synthesize the multifactorial determinants of nurse retention by integrating organizational, relational, and individual perspectives. Methods: An integrative review was conducted following Whittemore and Knafl's approach and reported according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines where applicable. A systematic search of six databases identified studies published between 2016 and 2026 addressing nurse retention in hospital settings. Included studies underwent methodological quality appraisal using validated tools, and findings were synthesized narratively. Results: Twenty-five articles were included. The analysis revealed differences in perspective between nurse managers and nurses regarding the factors that influence retention. Transformational and participative leadership among nurse managers enhanced staff retention through supportive organizational climates and higher professional commitment. For staff nurses, positive work environments, collegial support, and psychological resources such as self-efficacy and resilience were key predictors of intention to stay. These findings can be interpreted through Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory, Self-Determination Theory and Theory of Planned Behavior, which collectively highlight how recognition, autonomy, and competence satisfaction drive nurses' intention to remain in their roles. Conclusions: Nurse retention reflects dynamic, multilevel processes rather than the influence of single determinants. Integrated, theory-informed approaches targeting organizational structures, relational climates, and individual psychological resources are required to strengthen workforce sustainability and support high-quality care delivery.},
}