@article {pmid40660015,
year = {2025},
author = {Castillo, C and Chi, HHJ and Ghilardi, LB and Liempi, A and Sato, MN and Kemmerling, U and Bevilacqua, E},
title = {Placenta - A Competent, But Not Infallible, Antiviral and Antiparasitic Barrier.},
journal = {Reproductive sciences (Thousand Oaks, Calif.)},
volume = {32},
number = {8},
pages = {2669-2684},
pmid = {40660015},
issn = {1933-7205},
support = {2019/25119-7//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo/ ; 313250/2023-5//Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico/ ; 11220310//Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico/ ; 1220105//Fondo Nacional de Desarrollo Científico y Tecnológico/ ; },
abstract = {Significant challenges have been faced in the last decade due to viral and parasitic infections that have significantly impacted human health. Following an outbreak of the Zika virus, which has been linked to neurological issues in both adults and developing fetuses, we have recently dealt with SARS-CoV-2 infection, which has rapidly spread worldwide. Parasitic infections such as Malaria, Toxoplasmosis, and Chagas Disease severely affect the health of underresourced communities. In this scenario, the possibility of vertical transmission and fetal involvement is of significant concern. For protection, the fetus relies on the maternal immune system and placenta during intrauterine development. As an interposed organ between the mother and baby, the placenta performs numerous vital functions in fetal development, including multiple defense mechanisms against different types and intensities of stressors such as viral and parasitic infections. The role of the placenta in preventing pathogen access to the fetus and the factors involved in the failure of this mechanism need to be completely elucidated. In this scenario, syncytiotrophoblast plays a central role, using several strategies to prevent viral replication. Recent advances in the understanding of the molecular basis of these mechanisms include interferon (IFN) type I and III signaling, autophagy regulatory microRNAs, and the activation of the NF-κB pathway, which opens the possibility of cytokines and chemokines expression with local and systemic actions in the maternal organism. In this review, we address the role of the maternal-fetal barrier, chorionic villi in contact with maternal blood, antiviral and antiparasitic defense mechanisms, and mechanisms used by the human placenta against some of the most common viral and parasitic infections. Many of these strategies have successfully prevented congenital infections or fetal damage.},
}

@article {pmid40795380,
year = {2026},
author = {Weinfurter, MT and de Campos, DA and Camargo, CES and Leite, MS and Gabriel, CG},
title = {Execution of School Feeding Programs in Latin America during the Covid-19 Pandemic from the Perspective of the Human Right to Adequate Food and Nutrition (HRAFN): A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Nutrition reviews},
volume = {84},
number = {7},
pages = {1518-1534},
doi = {10.1093/nutrit/nuaf142},
pmid = {40795380},
issn = {1753-4887},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Latin America ; *Schools ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Child ; *Food Supply ; *Nutrition Policy ; *Food Services ; Adolescent ; *Human Rights ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic impacted several sectors, including school feeding policies in Latin America, and harmed, above all, school-age children and adolescents, since schools closed and classes were interrupted. The aim of this review was to analyze the execution of school feeding programs (SFPs) in Latin America in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of the Human Right to Adequate Food and Nutrition (HRAFN). We undertook a scoping review of articles and official documents in the databases Embase, FSTA, LILACS, PubMed, SciELO, Scopus, and Web of Science, and in official websites and websites of government agencies of Latin American countries. A descriptive synthesis of the data was performed from the perspective of the HRAFN, analyzing whether the availability, accessibility, adequacy, and stability dimensions were guaranteed. A total of 191 texts were located. From these, 107 were selected, including 20 articles and 87 documents. It was found that 3 of the 20 Latin American countries did not maintain SFPs during the pandemic (2020-2022): Cuba, Haiti, and Nicaragua. Most countries adapted the provision of school feeding to include food baskets, cash transfers, ready meals, or meals prepared at the educational institutions. Regarding accessibility, 45% of the countries served the same beneficiaries who were previously part of the program, while 30% reduced accessibility to only a portion of the public. As for adequacy, 55% of the countries did not specify whether fresh food was provided. Concerning the stability dimension, no texts presented information about the guarantee of the measures carried out regularly during the pandemic. The dimensions of the HRAFN were not fully contemplated during the emergency period, and, therefore, there were several violations of the rights of students who were beneficiaries of SFPs.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Latin America
*Schools
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Child
*Food Supply
*Nutrition Policy
*Food Services
Adolescent
*Human Rights

@article {pmid41222715,
year = {2025},
author = {Almutawif, YA and Khan, NU},
title = {Gut microbiome dysbiosis and antimicrobial resistance in the Middle East: a converging public health crisis in conflict and fragile settings.},
journal = {Archives of microbiology},
volume = {208},
number = {1},
pages = {15},
pmid = {41222715},
issn = {1432-072X},
abstract = {The Middle East is confronting a converging public health crisis as gut microbiome dysbiosis and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) amplify in conflict and fragile settings, driven by war, displacement, and systemic healthcare collapse. This review examines the bidirectional relationship between disrupted gut microbiota and escalating AMR, particularly among vulnerable refugee populations and war-affected communities. Key findings reveal alarming resistance rates in ESKAPE pathogens (e.g., Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp), exacerbated by unregulated antibiotic use, malnutrition, and poor sanitation. Dysbiosis fosters AMR through loss of colonization resistance and horizontal gene transfer, while conflict-related healthcare breakdowns—such as empiric antibiotic overuse and absent diagnostics—accelerate resistance spread. Refugee camps, with overcrowding and contaminated water, emerge as critical AMR hotspots. Urgent interventions are needed, including microbiome restoration therapies (e.g., probiotics and faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), rapid diagnostic tools, and integrated One Health surveillance. Moreover, the increasing trend of AMR is further amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to widespread antibiotic use and disrupted healthcare services. Review emphasises the importance of regional policy coordination, targeted humanitarian aid focused on microbiome health, and global advocacy to mitigate this crisis, which poses a threat to both local and international health security. Without action, the intersection of dysbiosis and AMR will deepen health inequities in conflict zones, with far-reaching consequences.},
}

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

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

@article {pmid41704166,
year = {2026},
author = {Gerrie, A and Bellman, S and Pollock, D},
title = {Experiences of people with diabetes mellitus during the COVID-19 pandemic utilizing telehealth for diabetes management: a qualitative systematic review.},
journal = {JBI evidence synthesis},
volume = {24},
number = {6},
pages = {1102-1155},
doi = {10.11124/JBIES-25-00355},
pmid = {41704166},
issn = {2689-8381},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telemedicine ; *COVID-19 ; *Diabetes Mellitus/therapy ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Qualitative Research ; Digital Health ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; Betacoronavirus ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The objective of this review was to explore the experiences of people with diabetes mellitus who utilized telehealth for diabetes management due to COVID-19 pandemic.

INTRODUCTION: COVID-19 intensified globally from January 2020, eliciting a multinational response to infection control for health preservation, including social distancing in public areas and health. The outcome had significant impact on the health care system, where persons with chronic diseases such as diabetes were required to transition a majority of their care to telehealth to align with social restrictions. To date, research has not addressed a synthesis or critical analysis in systematic reviews addressing the experiences of people with diabetes mellitus receiving care, and what effect this rapid shift to telehealth had compared with traditional in-person consultations.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: This review included primary qualitative or mixed methods studies of any research design that examined the experiences of adult with diabetes transitioning from in-person consultations to telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Exclusions included quantitative studies; secondary, tertiary, and gray literature; and literature pre-COVID-19.

METHODS: This review was conducted according to JBI guidance on qualitative systematic reviews. A search of CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Scopus, Embase, Emcare (Ovid), PubMed, and ProQuest Central was conducted. Studies from January 2020 onward in any language were assessed for eligibility. Two reviewers independently screened studies and assessed the methodological quality of the included studies using the JBI Qualitative Critical Appraisal Tool. The included studies were synthesized using JBI meta-aggregation, and the confidence in the findings was assessed with ConQual.

RESULTS: The reviewers screened 1491 titles and abstracts, and 9 studies were selected for inclusion. Three synthesized findings were identified: i) The provision of care and diabetes self-management capabilities utilizing telehealth was based on the awareness and acceptance of services, the perceived quality of communication, and the ability for patients to access safe and quality health assessments and care; ii) Telehealth was seen as logistically convenient, saving effort, money, and time through reduced travel for patients; and iii) Telehealth requires user-friendly infrastructure that considers accessibility, connectivity, compatibility, and digital health literacy.

CONCLUSIONS: The review validates the existing utilization of telehealth for diabetes care, further suggesting implementation of formalized telehealth as a hybrid model service for diabetes care delivery beyond the pandemic.

REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD4202342466.},
}

Humans
*Telemedicine
*COVID-19
*Diabetes Mellitus/therapy
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Qualitative Research
Digital Health
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
Betacoronavirus
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology

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

Humans
*Artificial Intelligence
*Primary Health Care
*Pulmonary Medicine/methods/trends
COVID-19
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Digital Health
*Coronavirus Infections/diagnosis
Betacoronavirus

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41741975,
year = {2026},
author = {Hou, L and Sha, Y and Feng, L and Liang, C and Hui, X and Lian, Z and Li, Y and Zhang, Y and Ge, L and Yang, K},
title = {Analysis of the Conceptualization, Frameworks, and Operationalization of Health System Resilience in Empirical Research.},
journal = {Journal of evidence-based medicine},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {e70122},
doi = {10.1111/jebm.70122},
pmid = {41741975},
issn = {1756-5391},
support = {19ZDA142//Major Project of the National Social Science Fund of China/ ; 21JZD037//Ministry of Education philosophy and social science research major project/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Empirical Research ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; *Resilience, Psychological ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {AIM: Health system resilience (HSR) has gained prominence in response to acute shocks and chronic stressors, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to analyze the conceptualization, frameworks, and operationalization of HSR in empirical research.

METHODS: We searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Global Health databases from inception to January 26, 2024 to identify empirical HSR studies. We screened studies independently, and systematically extracted data. Analyzed were conducted across study characteristics, shocks/stressors types, conceptualizations/definitions, framework traditions, and methodological approaches.

RESULTS: A total of 125 empirical studies were included, with a marked increase from 2020 onward. Most studies examined acute shocks (84%), with the largest share in the Europe (23.3%) and Africa (16.8%). HSR was predominantly conceptualized as a system capacity to absorb and adapt to shocks, while learning and transformation were less frequently operationalized. Health system-specific frameworks (e.g., Kruk; Blanchet) were most commonly used, primarily as analytical lenses rather than measurement tools. Qualitative methods predominated, although mixed-methods approaches are emerging. Evidence on continuity of essential functions and everyday resilience remained limited.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite growing conceptual sophistication, empirical HSR research remains constrained by fragmented frameworks use and limited operationalization. Advancing the field requires clearer conceptual boundaries, improved methodological integration, and greater attention to how resilience is enacted in routine system functioning.},
}

Humans
*Empirical Research
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
*Resilience, Psychological
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41742356,
year = {2026},
author = {Ogbu-Nwobodo, L and Hwong, AR and Murphy, K and Goldman, ML and Dilley, JW},
title = {Long COVID in Populations With Serious Mental Illness: Clinical and Policy Implications.},
journal = {Psychiatric services (Washington, D.C.)},
volume = {77},
number = {5},
pages = {449-456},
doi = {10.1176/appi.ps.20240457},
pmid = {41742356},
issn = {1557-9700},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology/complications ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Health Policy ; Comorbidity ; Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {As the world recovers from the height of the COVID-19 pandemic with ongoing plans for a strengthened behavioral health infrastructure-from crisis services to long-term care-one of the health conditions that has emerged is long COVID. This multisystem condition is characterized by persistent symptoms that develop after the acute phase of COVID-19 infection. Although the full clinical and scientific understanding of long COVID's neuropsychiatric impact is still evolving, a sizable cohort of patients has emerged with various long-term and often confusing symptoms, which can include cognitive impairment, mood dysregulation (e.g., anxiety or depression), sleep disturbances, posttraumatic symptoms, and chronic fatigue. Recognizing long COVID's debilitating impact on quality of life and wide-ranging societal consequences, the authors sought to summarize current knowledge about long COVID among individuals with a preexisting serious mental illness and to propose care and treatment recommendations for clinicians and public policy makers.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology/complications
*Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Health Policy
Comorbidity
Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41773392,
year = {2026},
author = {Muzamhindo, DN and Chironda, G and Tsoka-Gwegweni, JM},
title = {Implementation of malaria control programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Southern African Development Community Elimination 8 countries: A scoping review.},
journal = {African journal of primary health care & family medicine},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {e1-e12},
pmid = {41773392},
issn = {2071-2936},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Malaria/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *Pandemics ; Africa, Southern/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Disease Eradication ; Evidence Gaps ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Malaria is one of the communicable diseases affecting the whole world. The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region is the most affected, with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Malaria Elimination 8 (E8) countries accounting for 90% and 95% of the cases, respectively. The WHO tasked the SADC Malaria E8 countries to eliminate malaria by 2030, yet the COVID-19 pandemic response disrupted health programmes.

AIM:  The review aims to map and synthesise the evidence on malaria control programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic in the SADC E8 countries to identify gaps, inform policy, enhance planning for future pandemics and promote the attainment of the SADC 2030 Malaria E8 goal.

METHOD:  The reviewers conducted this review using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. The population, concept and context (PCC) guided inclusion and exclusion criteria. Information relevant to the review questions was extracted using data extraction tools.

RESULTS:  Of the 658 articles retrieved, only 7 met the inclusion criteria. Half of the publications were done in 2021, and nothing was published in 2020. The publishers were predominantly public health experts.

CONCLUSION:  There is limited research on the malaria programmes during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Malaria E8 countries.Contribution: The review brings out the need for research on the topic, policies that promote the continuation of malaria programmes during a pandemic and the employment of coping strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Malaria/prevention & control/epidemiology
*Pandemics
Africa, Southern/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*Disease Eradication
Evidence Gaps

@article {pmid41774181,
year = {2026},
author = {Sundaram, K and Rathinam, S},
title = {Advances in functional transcriptome analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: a review.},
journal = {Molecular genetics and genomics : MGG},
volume = {301},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41774181},
issn = {1617-4623},
abstract = {Drug-resistant tuberculosis poses a significant global challenge necessitating the prompt advancement of novel therapeutic options. Nonetheless, disease prognosis is contingent upon multiple factors. mRNA and other small RNAs are essential for gene regulation and disease progression. Additionally, they are essential for the advancement of TB mRNA therapies. The review aims to evaluate the functions of mRNA and various small RNAs, including lncRNA, miRNA, circRNA, and ceRNA, as interconnected components within the mRNA-miRNA-circRNA axis in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In this context, the analysis of various genes expressed during transcription is essential; however, the TB group’s mRNA expression levels of the CXCL10, CXCL9, IL1B, and PLA2G2D genes were substantially higher compared to the control group. In addition, EspC, MetE, and PPE15 increased IgG levels. Besides, the inadequate IgG responses to m-ESAT6 and m-EsxI present a noteworthy research opportunity. Evidence that neutralizing antibodies provide protection against viral infections targeted by mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic supports this research. mRNA-based vaccination analogues offer potential therapeutic advantages following BCG administration. Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are efficiently inhibited by the mRNA therapy, namely the repRNA-ID91/ID91 + GLA-SE vaccination, which elicits humoral and cellular immune responses. Therefore, the therapeutic use of mRNA, as demonstrated by numerous studies, suggests its potential as an efficacious therapeutic vaccine subsequent to BCG treatment. Also, investigating the ceRNA network and the relationships among miRNA, circRNA, lncRNA, and mRNA in TB study will improve the management of this infection.},
}

@article {pmid41774375,
year = {2026},
author = {He, S and Ibrahim, NA and Kang, MS},
title = {Evaluating the Multilingual Accessibility of Health Websites for Immigrants and Ethnic Minorities: A Methodological Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of immigrant and minority health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41774375},
issn = {1557-1920},
abstract = {Offering multilingual options on health websites is crucial, as it facilitates access to online health information for immigrants and ethnic minorities. In response to the necessity of research in this field and the growing scholarly interest, this study reviewed recent empirical studies on the multilingual accessibility of health websites to offer methodological insights into this research field while highlighting existing research gaps. Three databases, namely, Web of Science, PubMed, and CINAHL, were searched for studies published between 1 March 2014 and 1 March 2024. Fifty-three eligible studies were included. Data were extracted from nine dimensions and synthesized to address four research questions: conceptual orientations, research gaps, research pathways, and website selection methods. The data synthesis revealed that: (i) research gaps exist, particularly with COVID-19 as the predominant health topic; (ii) the reviewed studies were geographically focused on only 12 regions, with the United States receiving the most extensive attention (54.5%); (iii) only 16 studies (30.2%) specifically targeted immigrants or ethnic minorities; (iv) only five different languages appeared as source languages of the studied websites, and 86.8% of studies focused on websites originally prepared in English; and (v) common criteria for evaluating multilingual accessibility included the presence of multilingual options, languages offered, translation methods, and the quantity of multilingual information. This review offers insights into the research gaps and methodologies for evaluating the multilingual accessibility of health websites. Future studies could focus on empirical research across diverse health websites, regions, and language pairs. A ready-to-use checklist of criteria for evaluating multilingual accessibility is needed.},
}

@article {pmid41790576,
year = {2026},
author = {Morcos, ZL and Theoharides, TC},
title = {Long COVID neuropathy: The role of mast cells.},
journal = {Journal of neuropathology and experimental neurology},
volume = {85},
number = {5},
pages = {413-424},
doi = {10.1093/jnen/nlag016},
pmid = {41790576},
issn = {1554-6578},
mesh = {Humans ; *Mast Cells/immunology ; *COVID-19/complications/immunology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/immunology/etiology ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Neuralgia/immunology ; },
abstract = {Postacute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), or Long COVID, is estimated to affect over 60 million individuals globally, with almost half of COVID-19 survivors experiencing persistent symptoms such as neuropathic pain, fatigue, and autonomic dysfunction. Despite its prevalence, the pathophysiology of PASC remains poorly understood. This narrative review highlights activation of mast cells (MCs), the unique tissue immune cells as a central contributor to neuropathic manifestations in PASC. Mast cell locations near nerves and vessels allows them to regulate neuroimmune and neurovascular processes. Mast cell activation mirrors patterns seen in small-fiber neuropathy and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome, suggesting a shared immune-mediated etiology. The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein has been shown to activate MCs via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and toll-like receptor 4, triggering release of pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic mediators, including interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, histamine, and tryptase. Such mediators sensitize peripheral nerves, disrupt the blood-brain barrier, and recruit microglia, ultimately contributing to small-fiber injury, neuroinflammation, and dysautonomia. Emerging reports suggest benefit from MC-directed treatments although responses remain variable. Understanding the role of MCs in PASC may offer a plausible mechanism of pathogenesis and guide targeted therapies. Future studies are needed to validate these findings and improve PASC patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*Mast Cells/immunology
*COVID-19/complications/immunology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Peripheral Nervous System Diseases/immunology/etiology
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
Neuralgia/immunology

@article {pmid41792332,
year = {2026},
author = {Guest, J and Moritz, C},
title = {Study design considerations in clinical trials testing transcutaneous stimulation for spinal cord injury.},
journal = {Spinal cord},
volume = {64},
number = {4},
pages = {352-361},
pmid = {41792332},
issn = {1476-5624},
mesh = {Humans ; *Spinal Cord Injuries/therapy ; *Research Design ; COVID-19 ; *Clinical Trials as Topic/methods ; *Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation/methods ; *Spinal Cord Stimulation/methods ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {STUDY DESIGN: Methodological review and expert perspective.

OBJECTIVES: To examine the methodological challenges in designing rigorous clinical trials for transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) in chronic spinal cord injury (SCI), with particular focus on challenges of sham control implementation, and to propose alternative trial design approaches that balance scientific rigor with practical feasibility and ethical considerations.

SETTING: United States.

METHODS: We analyzed the design considerations that influenced the Up-LIFT pivotal trial, examining three critical constraints: the technical limitations of creating safe and convincing sham stimulation for extended protocols; the participant burden associated with traditional sham-controlled designs; and the heightened risks during the COVID-19 pandemic. We reviewed existing literature on placebo effects in neuromodulation, technical challenges of sham tSCS implementation, and ethical considerations specific to the SCI population. Alternative methodological approaches were evaluated, including sequential self-controlled designs, biomarker-guided approaches, and adaptive trial designs.

RESULTS: Traditional sham controls for tSCS face serious technical challenges because participants readily detect stimulation parameters, minimal currents produce detectable neuromodulatory effects, and extended protocols amplify these issues through knowledge sharing and functional feedback. Ethical concerns include substantial participant burden, potential for lessebo effects when a sham is suspected, and erosion of therapeutic relationships through prolonged deception. The COVID-19 pandemic added critical safety considerations for the vulnerable SCI population. Alternative designs, such as sequential self-controlled approaches, as implemented in Up-LIFT, can maintain scientific validity while addressing these constraints.

CONCLUSION: The unique challenges of tSCS clinical trials necessitate innovative methodological approaches beyond traditional placebo-controlled designs. Sequential self-controlled designs, biomarker-guided studies, and adaptive trial methodologies offer scientifically sound alternatives that respect participant welfare while generating robust evidence. Future research should pursue dual paths: developing improved sham paradigms while advancing alternative trial methodologies suitable for neuromodulation-enhanced rehabilitation interventions.},
}

Humans
*Spinal Cord Injuries/therapy
*Research Design
COVID-19
*Clinical Trials as Topic/methods
*Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation/methods
*Spinal Cord Stimulation/methods
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology

@article {pmid41801631,
year = {2026},
author = {Tian, Y and Zheng, Q and Yin, J and Liu, T and Zhang, W and Ban, Y and Zheng, L and Tang, W and Kang, H},
title = {Glycocalyx degradation: exploring related mechanisms, pathophysiological significance, and therapeutic prospects.},
journal = {Journal of physiology and biochemistry},
volume = {82},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41801631},
issn = {1877-8755},
support = {No. BYSYDL2023004//Clinical Cohort Construction Program of Peking University Third Hospita/ ; Grant No. 2024YFA1108603//Grants-in-Aid from the National Key R&D Program of China/ ; No.32271368//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; QY25235//Beijing Natural Science Foundation/ ; },
abstract = {The glycocalyx is a fuzzy structure covering the luminal surface of vascular endothelial cells. Its name was first proposed by Bennett, derived from the Latin word meaning ‘sweet shell’. This was confirmed by Luft in 1966 through ruthenium red staining under electron microscopy. In recent years, the role of the glycocalyx in the pathophysiological processes of various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, sepsis, COVID-19 infection, and diabetes, has gradually attracted widespread attention, and its importance has been increasingly recognized. In these acute and chronic clinical situations, the endothelium surface may lose syndecans, heparan sulfate (HS), and hyaluronan (HA), the primary constituents of the glycocalyx, a process involving multiple degrading enzymes. This review aims to start from the mechanisms of glycocalyx degradation, systematically elaborate on the factors related to degradation, enzymes involved in the degradation process, and signaling pathways. It also explores pharmacological drugs with the potential to reduce glycocalyx shedding, as found in current laboratory and clinical studies. In this review, it is expected to provide a reference for a deeper understanding of the role of glycocalyx in physiological and pathological processes and to offer new ideas and targets for the development of diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive strategies for related diseases.},
}

@article {pmid41903098,
year = {2026},
author = {Alwashmi, ASS and Khan, NU and Unar, A},
title = {Decoding Microbiota-Immune Interplay in Viral Pathogenesis: Toward Next-Generation Antiviral Therapies.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {41903098},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {Emerging viral threats, including COVID-19, influenza, and hepatitis B, underscore the urgent need for innovative antiviral strategies. Traditional antiviral drugs and vaccines are often limited by viral mutations, drug resistance, and inter-individual variability. The human microbiota has emerged as an active regulator of viral pathogenesis, influencing host susceptibility, immune responses, and therapeutic outcomes. This review comprehensively explores microbiota–virus interactions, including direct viral modulation by commensal bacteria and bacteriophages, metabolic reprogramming of host cells, and immunomodulation by microbial metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) through the GPR43–NLRP3–MAVS axis. The gut–lung–immune axis and systemic consequences of virus-induced dysbiosis, including “leaky gut” and amplified cytokine responses (TNF-α, IL-6), are highlighted. Translational applications discussed include probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), and next-generation engineered microbial consortia. Evidence from clinical FMT trials in chronic hepatitis B, liver cirrhosis, and COVID-19 recovery, along with FDA-approved oral microbiota therapies, suggests therapeutic promise. The integration of AI-guided multi-omics approaches enables patient stratification and personalized interventions while addressing safety, strain specificity, and regulatory challenges. This review integrates mechanistic insights and clinical evidence to guide the development of next-generation microbiota-based precision antiviral therapies with improved efficacy and durability.},
}

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

@article {pmid42033494,
year = {2026},
author = {Chakraborty, B and Singh, T},
title = {mRNA vaccines for viral diseases: mechanism, advances, and future perspective.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42033494},
issn = {1573-4978},
abstract = {The rapid development and global distribution of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) indicated an important shift in vaccine science and public health response. Unlike traditional vaccines that rely on live-attenuated or inactivated pathogens, mRNA vaccines use synthetic mRNA encoding the antigen, allowing host cells to produce the antigen and elicit strong immune responses. The success of mRNA vaccines against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has gradually increased global curiosity in applying this technology to treat other diseases. This review discusses the scientific basis of mRNA vaccines, including their mechanism of action, advantages in antigen design, expandable manufacturing, and modern delivery systems such as organic, inorganic, and hybrid. Beyond COVID-19, mRNA vaccines are being studied for other viral diseases, including influenza, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Zika, and dengue. The intrinsic flexibility and speed of mRNA technology make it a valuable platform for next-generation pandemic preparedness and new therapeutic development. Despite these advantages, many challenges exist, including mRNA instability, cold-chain storage requirements, regulatory issues, and concerns regarding global vaccine availability and acceptance. Overcoming these will be critical for the full long-term potential of mRNA vaccines as a sustainable and transformative platform for global health. This review highlights recent advances, current challenges, and future perspectives of mRNA vaccine technology for viral diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42050591,
year = {2026},
author = {Tan, E and Loveys, K and Ali, W and McKinlay, CJD and Dalziel, SR},
title = {Digital tools for recruitment and retention of participants in paediatric clinical research: a scoping review.},
journal = {Trials},
volume = {27},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42050591},
issn = {1745-6215},
support = {19/003//Health Research Council of New Zealand/ ; 17/614//Health Research Council of New Zealand/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Patient Selection ; Child ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Digital Media ; *Pediatrics/methods ; Child, Preschool ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Biomedical Research/methods ; Pandemics ; Social Media ; Digital Health ; Adolescent ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Digital tools are increasingly used to support recruitment and retention of participants in paediatric research, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the extent of the evidence supporting this method in paediatric populations has yet to be evaluated. This scoping review aimed to review the literature on digital tools for recruitment and/or retention of participants in paediatric research, including emerging evidence following the pandemic.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. We included peer-reviewed quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies evaluating a digital tool for recruitment or retention in paediatric research in any patient population aged <13 years. Records were identified from systematic database searches with a librarian (EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL), limited to English, from 2013 onwards (last search 03/07/2024), and manual searches. Records were screened and extracted independently in duplicate. The data were charted and narratively summarised.

RESULTS: Sixty-one out of 4988 records were included. Most evaluations used an observational design; only 5 (8%) involved a randomised experiment. The host studies were mostly aiming to recruit children aged 5-12 years (n = 42; 69%), with a predominantly health promotion (n = 18; 30%), developmental (n = 12; 20%), or oncology (n = 9; 15%) focus. Most studies used multi-component digital interventions for recruitment (n = 39/53; 74%) or retention (n = 17/31; 55%). Social media (n = 33/52; 62%) and websites (n = 19/53; 36%) were most commonly used for recruitment, whereas text/instant messaging (n = 17/31; 55%) and email (n = 11/31; 36%) were the most common retention strategies. The estimates of recruitment and retention rates, and reach per digital tool varied widely between studies. Strategies in underserved populations reflected those used most commonly overall. Multi-component digital strategies were found to support a high rate of retention (84.1-90.7%) during pandemic restrictions.

CONCLUSIONS: This scoping review highlights the broad array of digital tools that have been used to support recruitment and retention in studies of infants and children, including in subgroups of underserved populations and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Most evaluations were observational and examined multi-component digital interventions. The lack of studies with a robust analytical design in the literature signals a need for further high-quality, randomised, within-study evaluations following standardised reporting criteria.

REGISTRATION: The protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (OSF) at https://osf.io/ybfhr/ . Registered on July 5 2024.},
}

Humans
*Patient Selection
Child
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Digital Media
*Pediatrics/methods
Child, Preschool
SARS-CoV-2
*Biomedical Research/methods
Pandemics
Social Media
Digital Health
Adolescent

@article {pmid42155083,
year = {2026},
author = {Alnaeem, MM and Alshamlan, MJ},
title = {Medical Device-Related Pressure Injuries: A Systematic Review for Prevalence, Causes, and Risk Factors Since the COVID-19 Pandemic.},
journal = {Advances in skin & wound care},
volume = {39},
number = {6},
pages = {E286-E294},
doi = {10.1097/ASW.0000000000000468},
pmid = {42155083},
issn = {1538-8654},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pressure Ulcer/epidemiology/etiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; *Equipment and Supplies/adverse effects ; Intensive Care Units ; Pandemics ; Female ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The intensive care unit (ICU) is a critical environment where patients are at risk for developing medical device-related pressure injuries (MDRPIs). This review aims to synthesize the literature and assess the prevalence, causes, and risk factors of MDRPIs, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DATA SOURCES: A systematic review was conducted to guide this study. A comprehensive search strategy was used across multiple databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL.

STUDY SELECTION: The search focused on studies published between 2019 and 2024, specifically targeting adult patients in the ICU. Studies focusing on pediatric populations, patients with mental illnesses, or those investigating ulcers unrelated to MDRPIs were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION: After screening and selecting relevant studies, data were extracted and analyzed in numerical data.

DATA SYNTHESIS: The review included 35 studies, revealing a high prevalence of MDRPIs in ICU settings, ranging from 5.01% to 62.4% across various countries. The prevalence was related to several factors, such as patient demographics (age and comorbidities), ICU practices, and the type and duration of medical device usage. Mechanical ventilation, nasogastric tubes, and endotracheal tubes were among the most common devices associated with MDRPIs.

CONCLUSIONS: Tailored interventions, such as regular skin assessments and pressure-redistributing devices, are crucial for preventing MDRPIs and improving patient outcomes. The COVID-19 pandemic experience emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and evidence-based preventive measures in critical care environments.},
}

Humans
*Pressure Ulcer/epidemiology/etiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Risk Factors
Prevalence
*Equipment and Supplies/adverse effects
Intensive Care Units
Pandemics
Female

@article {pmid42267299,
year = {2026},
author = {Zu, Y and Wang, H and Wu, J and Tang, C and Han, R and Fang, F},
title = {Permanent hypoparathyroidism following SARS-CoV-2 infection: a case report with two-year follow-up and literature review.},
journal = {Frontiers in endocrinology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1712510},
pmid = {42267299},
issn = {1664-2392},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hypoparathyroidism/etiology/virology/diagnosis/blood ; Female ; *COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Follow-Up Studies ; Parathyroid Hormone/blood ; Hypocalcemia/etiology ; Calcium/therapeutic use ; Adult ; Hashimoto Disease/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications ; Betacoronavirus ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Beyond its predominant respiratory involvement, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has also been implicated in endocrine dysfunction. Hypocalcemia is common in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), yet the insufficient compensatory rise in parathyroid hormone (PTH) and its long-term outcomes remain poorly characterized. We describe a young adult Chinese woman with no history of neck surgery who developed severe symptomatic hypocalcemia shortly after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. Laboratory evaluation revealed inappropriately low PTH levels with concomitant hyperphosphatemia, consistent with hypoparathyroidism (HypoPT). Although baseline calcium/PTH data prior to infection were unavailable, the regular calcium and vitamin D supplementation, along with serial monitoring over more than two years, demonstrated persistently suppressed PTH secretion, supporting a diagnosis of permanent HypoPT. Thyroid imaging and antibody testing confirmed coexistent Hashimoto's thyroiditis, raising the possibility of an autoimmune contribution. To contextualize this case, we reviewed 14 previously published reports of COVID-19-associated HypoPT, among which no cases originating from China were identified. Based on available data, it cannot be ruled out that SARS-CoV-2 infection may contribute to the development of new-onset HypoPT in addition to worsening pre-existing conditions. Young-onset patients without a history of surgery-particularly those whose hypocalcemia severity does not clearly parallel the severity of infection-appear to have a higher likelihood of subsequent persistent dysfunction, though this observation remains preliminary. This case, together with the literature, underscores the need for extended follow-up in patients presenting with hypocalcemia and blunted PTH responses after COVID-19. Comprehensive autoimmune evaluation and, where appropriate, genetic testing should be considered to clarify etiology and guide long-term management.},
}

Humans
*Hypoparathyroidism/etiology/virology/diagnosis/blood
Female
*COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Follow-Up Studies
Parathyroid Hormone/blood
Hypocalcemia/etiology
Calcium/therapeutic use
Adult
Hashimoto Disease/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Coronavirus Infections/complications
Betacoronavirus
Pandemics

@article {pmid42268693,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, V and Gutman, G},
title = {Navigating Identification and Management of Substance Use in Adolescents.},
journal = {Pediatric annals},
volume = {55},
number = {6},
pages = {e229-e233},
doi = {10.3928/19382359-20260223-05},
pmid = {42268693},
issn = {1938-2359},
mesh = {Humans ; *Substance-Related Disorders/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology ; Adolescent ; Motivational Interviewing ; Adolescent Behavior ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Physician's Role ; },
abstract = {Substance use in adolescents is an important public health topic. It can affect cognitive development and is associated with negative outcomes, such as school truancy, low graduation rates, and increased high-risk behaviors (eg, unprotected sex, dangerous driving), as well as high rates of suicide, substance abuse, dependence in adulthood, and death by overdose. Substance use among adolescents declined during the coronavirus 2019 pandemic and has continued to do so, resulting in the lowest rates of substance use in decades. Despite this decrease, physicians and nonphysician practitioners still need to be prepared to navigate this issue in teenagers and young adults. The role of primary care physicians and other practitioners includes promotion of abstinence from substances, using validated screening questionnaires, and treatment through motivational interviewing and harm reduction, as well as referring to specialists, higher levels of care, and rehabilitation centers as needed.},
}

Humans
*Substance-Related Disorders/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology
Adolescent
Motivational Interviewing
Adolescent Behavior
COVID-19/epidemiology
Physician's Role

@article {pmid42285845,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, PC and Hsu, YL and Wu, LS and Liu, XL and Tsai, HJ and Wang, JY and , },
title = {Pediatric post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection in Taiwan: Insights from the DISCOVER cohort.},
journal = {Pediatrics and neonatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.pedneo.2026.03.007},
pmid = {42285845},
issn = {2212-1692},
abstract = {The post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), or long COVID, represent a multifaceted challenge in pediatric populations, characterized by symptoms persisting beyond the acute phase. In Taiwan, where early public health measures initially contained the pandemic, the 2022 Omicron surge prompted focused investigation into pediatric PASC, highlighting the critical need for longitudinal data in this specific demographic. To address this challenge, the Diagnosis and Support for COVID Children to Enhance Recovery (DISCOVER) study was established as a prospective, multidisciplinary cohort. By employing a multimodal approach, this study characterizes the clinical landscape of pediatric PASC in Taiwan through validated screening instruments, AI-driven diagnostics, and pulmonary assessments, while concurrently evaluating immune biomarkers, vaccination protection, and vitamin D intervention. This review synthesizes comprehensive findings from the cohort. While the acute phase of infection was predominantly mild, a substantial proportion of children experienced persistent multisystem symptoms, with fatigue, respiratory issues, and somatic complaints being most prevalent. Vaccination was found to significantly modify the disease trajectory, offering protection against subsequent gastrointestinal sequelae and preserving pulmonary function by mitigating small airway resistance. Furthermore, advanced diagnostic modalities, including impulse oscillometry and deep learning-assisted echocardiography, successfully unmasked subclinical organ dysfunction that conventional methods often failed to detect. Mechanistic investigations revealed that symptom severity was closely linked to elevated anti-nucleocapsid antibody titers, while markers of T-cell exhaustion evidenced persistent immune dysregulation, rather than ongoing viral replication. Notably, a preliminary single-center randomized controlled trial within this cohort provided early evidence that vitamin D supplementation may reduce the overall symptom burden and modulate pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles in children with PASC. Collectively, these findings underscore the multisystem nature and immune-driven mechanism of pediatric PASC, while highlighting the role of vaccination, advanced diagnostics, and targeted nutritional interventions in improving recovery. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT05426291 (ClinicalTrials.gov).},
}

@article {pmid42286395,
year = {2026},
author = {Jia, Y and Han, X and Ma, Y and Wang, X and Yang, Y and Zhang, A and Ding, K and Chen, S},
title = {Reverse genetics strategies for coronaviruses: platform construction and applications in vaccine development.},
journal = {Virus genes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42286395},
issn = {1572-994X},
support = {ZDYF202605//Xinxiang Major Science and Technology Special Project/ ; 252102111004//the Science and Technology Research Project of Henan Province/ ; },
abstract = {The continuous emergence of novel coronaviruses, characterized by high mutation rates and frequent recombination events, poses severe threats to global "One Health." Notably, the recent outbreak of the recombinant feline coronavirus (FCoV-23) and the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 variants underscore the urgent need to understand viral pathogenesis and cross-species transmission mechanisms. Reverse genetics technology serves as a critical platform for bridging genomic sequencing to functional virology, enabling targeted mutagenesis and the generation of recombinant viruses. However, the construction of reverse genetics systems for coronaviruses is often hampered by their exceptionally large genomes and the instability of viral cDNA sequences in bacterial hosts due to cytotoxicity. This review moves beyond a simple enumeration of methods to systematically compare current reverse genetics strategies-including in vitro ligation, bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) systems, and transformation-associated recombination (TAR)-across different viral genera. Furthermore, we critically evaluate the application of these platforms in deciphering pathogenic mechanisms and developing next-generation vaccines, with a specific focus on overcoming technical bottlenecks and designing broad-spectrum countermeasures against emerging cross-species threats.},
}

@article {pmid42286517,
year = {2026},
author = {Adnyanaschah, R and Abdulah, R and Oktora, MP},
title = {Clinical manifestations and laboratory findings in patients coinfected with dengue virus and SARS-CoV-2: a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12879-026-13752-2},
pmid = {42286517},
issn = {1471-2334},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever and Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are infectious diseases caused by dengue virus (DENV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). While DENV remains endemic in many tropical regions, SARS-CoV-2 spread globally beginning in 2020. Reports of coinfection have emerged from several countries. This systematic review describes the clinical manifestations and laboratory findings reported in patients coinfected with DENV and SARS-CoV-2.

METHODS: This review followed the PRISMA guidelines and collecting data from PubMed for articles published between 2020 and 2025 that discussed DENV and SARS-CoV-2 coinfection. Eligible study designs included theoretical articles, case reports, case series, and cohort studies. Data were synthesized descriptively due to heterogeneity and the absence of comparator groups.

RESULTS: Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria, identifying 65 patients with SARS-CoV-2 and DENV coinfection. Reported symptoms included fever (69%), vomiting (57%), abdominal pain (55%), rash (54%), and shock (51%). Laboratory findings also showed hematological and physiological alterations including hypotension (57.14%), tachypnea (50%), fever (62.5%), neutropenia (33.33%), neutrophilia (50%), lymphopenia (42.86%), and lymphocytosis (28.57%). These percentages represent descriptive counts across heterogeneous case reports and do not reflect prevalence estimates.

CONCLUSIONS: Patients with DENV and SARS-CoV-2 coinfection exhibit a range of clinical and laboratory abnormalities, but the available evidence-primarily case reports and case series without comparator groups-does not allow conclusions about disease severity or prognosis relative to monoinfection. The findings should therefore be interpreted as descriptive and hypothesis-generating. Careful diagnostic evaluation and clinical monitoring remain essential in suspected coinfection cases.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

@article {pmid42288770,
year = {2026},
author = {Lamadrid, A and Leiva-Escobar, I and Soza, A and Quentin, W},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hepatitis C care across the cascade of care: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42288770},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Hepatitis C/therapy/diagnosis/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Europe/epidemiology ; Hepacivirus ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with widespread health services disruption, including challenges in the management of chronic infectious diseases. However, evidence regarding reported changes in hepatitis C virus (HCV) care during this period remains limited and fragmented. We aimed to map the available evidence on reported changes in HCV care during the COVID-19 pandemic across the HCV cascade of care.

METHOD: We conducted a scoping review following the Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework. Searches of Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and grey literature identified studies reporting pandemic-related changes in HCV diagnosis, linkage to care, treatment, or cure from; March 2020 to March 2025. Data were extracted on the study setting, stage of the cascade of care, and observed changes in HCV care, and synthesized narratively.

RESULTS: Twenty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Eighteen were conducted in Europe and North America. Most studies found declines in HCV care across all stages of the cascade of care: diagnosis (15 of 21 studies), linkage to care (9 of 10), treatment initiation or completion (18 of 27), and cure (6 of 13). Among the included studies, linkage to care was the stage most consistently reported as disrupted.

CONCLUSION: Evidence on reported changes in the HCV cascade of care during the COVID-19 pandemic is limited and geographically skewed toward high-income countries. Available data suggest service reductions across all stages, with linkage to care being the stage most frequently reported as disrupted among the studies that assessed it. Strengthening surveillance, ensuring routine monitoring at all stages of the cascade of care, and building resilient HCV services are critical to safeguarding progress toward the 2030 hepatitis elimination goal.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Hepatitis C/therapy/diagnosis/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Europe/epidemiology
Hepacivirus

@article {pmid42290783,
year = {2026},
author = {Shah, SFA and Tharwat, M and Rehman, A and Alshanbari, FA},
title = {The impact of bacterial and viral diseases on dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) welfare: a comprehensive review.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1795334},
pmid = {42290783},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {Dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) are vital to food security, livelihoods and cultural identity in arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, the Middle East and South Asia, with global populations exceeding 35-40 million and continuing to rise as climate change favors livestock adapted to harsh environments. Despite their expanding roles in meat and milk production, transport, tourism and racing, camel health and welfare remain comparatively underexplored, particularly regarding infectious diseases. This review synthesizes current knowledge on major bacterial infections, including brucellosis, tuberculosis, mastitis, suppurative infections, salmonellosis, and clostridial diseases, as well as important viral diseases such as Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, camel pox, Rift Valley fever, rabies, contagious ecthyma, and peste des petits ruminants, with a focus on their implications for animal welfare. These diseases commonly lead to acute and chronic pain, fever, respiratory compromise, reproductive failure, debilitation, and mortality, and are associated with physiological stress responses such as activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and increased acute-phase proteins, alongside behavioral changes including lethargy, reduced grooming, altered social interactions, and impaired maternal and working behaviors. Using the Five Freedoms and the Five Domains Model frameworks, this review demonstrates how infectious diseases undermine multiple dimensions of camel welfare, including nutrition, physical comfort, health, behavior, and mental state. Beyond individual animals, camel diseases have significant socioeconomic and ethical implications. Several pathogens are zoonotic, posing risks to pastoralists, veterinarians, and other stakeholders, and influencing trade regulations, disease control strategies, and culling practices, which may further exacerbate welfare compromise. Key knowledge gaps remain, including the lack of validated camel-specific welfare assessment tools, limited longitudinal data on welfare trajectories during disease outbreaks, and insufficient integration of welfare indicators into surveillance and control programs. The review highlights priority research and policy needs, including the development of field-adapted welfare scoring systems, evaluation of welfare impacts of interventions such as vaccination and movement restrictions, and stronger integration of animal welfare into One Health and One Welfare frameworks to support sustainable camel production and resilient dryland livelihoods.},
}

@article {pmid42291020,
year = {2026},
author = {Khani, E and Afsharirad, H and Yadegari, AT and Zarezadeh, M and Asham, H and Bannazadeh-Baghi, H and Entezari-Maleki, T},
title = {Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir Efficacy in Immunocompetent Patients with Confirmed Omicron Variant of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of research in pharmacy practice},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {20},
pmid = {42291020},
issn = {2319-9644},
abstract = {The high mutations of the Omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 raised concerns regarding the efficacy of antivirals. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the impact of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir on the outcomes of immunocompetent patients with confirmed Omicron variant. Three reviewers systemically searched PubMed (Medline), Cochrane Library, and Embase databases up to June 9, 2025. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies with a control group were screened for eligibility to extract data. Studies that included only patients with immunosuppression, malignancy, or renal failure, severe disease, or assessed nirmatrelvir/ritonavir efficacy on variants other than Omicron were excluded. Forty-six observational studies, including 6,099,805 participants, were involved in the meta-analysis. Our findings revealed that nirmatrelvir/ritonavir significantly decreases death (risk ratio [RR] =0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.23-0.40), disease progression (RR = 0.57; 95% CI: 0.42-0.71), hospitalization (RR = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.35-0.56), composite outcome of hospitalization and death (RR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.44-0.71), ventilation (RR = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.19-0.72), and intensive care unit admission (RR = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.38-0.73) compared to the control group. However, no significant difference was shown across the two groups regarding hospitalization duration (mean difference = -2.34; 95% CI: -5.60-0.93). The current updated meta-analysis supported the efficacy of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir on the Omicron variant. However, further RCTs are recommended for accurate results.},
}

@article {pmid42291037,
year = {2026},
author = {Seboka, BT and Ma, L and Magliano, DJ and Talic, S and Junior, ADSM and Borlotti, A and Brears, HT and Dennis, A and Banerjee, A and Marwick, TH and Huynh, Q},
title = {The impact of post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 on cardiac function and structure: A systematic review and a hybrid individual participant data meta-analysis.},
journal = {American journal of preventive cardiology},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {101457},
pmid = {42291037},
issn = {2666-6677},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), also referred to as Long COVID, affect a significant proportion of COVID-19 survivors, with evidence suggesting cardiovascular involvement. However, the nature, extent, and clinical significance of these alterations remain uncertain.

AIM: To synthesize evidence on structural and functional cardiac alterations in individuals with PASC compared with those without PASC.

METHOD: We systematically searched seven databases. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed and supplemented by individual participant data (IPD) analyses from three studies. Univariable and multivariable meta-regressions examined associations with study-level characteristics. Publication bias and evidence certainty were assessed using standard methods (funnel plots, Egger's test, trim-and-fill, and GRADE).

RESULTS: From 3580 records, 17 studies with 4852 participants (3173 PASC, 1679 controls) met the inclusion criteria. IPD analysis revealed an impairment in global longitudinal strain (GLS) (mean difference (MD) = 3.63 %) in individuals with PASC. When using categorical thresholds, 58 % of individuals with PASC had GLS < 16 %, indicating a significant prevalence of subclinical left ventricular dysfunction. Meta-analysis supported these findings, showing impaired GLS (MD = 1.07 %), along with reductions in left ventricular ejection fraction (MD = -1.30 %) and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (MD=-3.98 mL). Meta-regression showed that cardiac dysfunction was more frequently observed in individuals with older age, diabetes, and hypertension.

CONCLUSION: This review indicates that PASC is associated with modest, subclinical alterations in cardiac function. These alterations appear more pronounced in older adults and those with cardiometabolic comorbidities, highlighting the potential value of risk-stratified cardiovascular surveillance in individuals with PASC. The long-term clinical relevance of these changes remains unclear and warrants further study.},
}

@article {pmid42291464,
year = {2026},
author = {Nwokocha, C and Palacios, J and Kolawole, T and Nwokocha, M and Anyaorah, C and Chiroma, JH and McGrowder, D and Orie, N and Husaini, DC},
title = {Toward Precision in Myocardial Injury Management: A Critical Synthesis and the C.A.L.I.B.R.A.T.E. Framework for Biomarker Integration.},
journal = {Clinical Medicine Insights. Cardiology},
volume = {20},
number = {},
pages = {11795468261454738},
pmid = {42291464},
issn = {1179-5468},
abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of global mortality, necessitating precise strategies for diagnosing and managing myocardial injury. This review critically synthesizes the current biomarker landscape and proposes an integrative framework to address the significant translational gaps between biomarker science and clinical practice. We conducted a comprehensive critical review, analyzing established and emerging biomarkers, including cardiac troponins, natriuretic peptides, and inflammatory and fibrotic markers, within the context of biological confounders, etiology-specific challenges, and clinical implementation barriers. Through thematic synthesis, we developed the novel C.A.L.I.B.R.A.T.E. framework to structure biomarker integration. While high-sensitivity assays have improved detection, they reveal chronic elevations in conditions like renal dysfunction, aging, and heart failure, reducing specificity and complicating acute diagnosis. Emerging biomarkers (eg, sST2, galectin-3) offer prognostic insight but lack therapeutic guidance and specificity. Etiology-specific puzzles (eg, myocarditis, COVID-19, MINOCA) highlight the limitations of isolated biomarker interpretation. The C.A.L.I.B.R.A.T.E. framework addresses these gaps by integrating Clinical context, Assay characteristics, Likelihood, Injury mechanism, Biomarker profiles, Rule-out/in thresholds, Adjunctive tests, Time kinetics, and Etiologies & comorbidities. The future of myocardial injury management depends on shifting from isolated biomarker measurement to integrated, algorithm-driven interpretation. The C.A.L.I.B.R.A.T.E. framework provides a structured pathway for personalized diagnostic reasoning, bridging the translational chasm and advancing precision cardiology through context-dependent, multi-modal data synthesis.},
}

@article {pmid42291864,
year = {2026},
author = {Vipler, BS and Arnet, C and Keniston, A and Mardo, M and King, CJ},
title = {Balancing the Positives and Negatives: A Bibliometric Analysis of Positive and Negative Study Publication Patterns in High-Impact General Medical Journals.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {5},
pages = {e108720},
pmid = {42291864},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Despite calls to publish negative studies in prominent medical journals, greater submission and acceptance of positive results remains an issue. We aimed to quantify the degree to which high-impact general medical journals publish negative study results. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed for all randomized controlled trials published in five high-impact general medicine journals: Annals of Internal Medicine, the British Medical Journal (BMJ), the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), the Lancet, and the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM). Our search spanned a 10-year period from 2014 to 2023, which included data from before and after the emergence of the COVID-19 global pandemic. We performed single-author data extraction via abstract review to determine study positivity, defined as statistical significance for the primary outcome, flagging abstracts for secondary review if positivity was not clear. Two authors reviewed all flagged abstracts. We calculated the proportion of negative studies (i.e., not meeting statistical significance for the primary outcome) overall, by journal, and by publication year. We used logistic regression to model the odds of a study reporting a negative result by journal and year. Our search yielded 3722 individual citations, with screening resulting in 3600 randomized controlled trials for review, with 31% of studies reporting negative results. The proportion of negative studies varied, ranging from 22% in the Lancet to 51% in BMJ and JAMA. The proportion of negative studies remained consistent over time. High-impact general medical journals vary widely in the percentage of negative studies that they publish but did not change over time, even during and after a global pandemic. Further study is needed to determine factors influencing this phenomenon and what can be done to minimize publication bias.},
}

@article {pmid42292375,
year = {2026},
author = {Salvador Ibarra, IJ and Mora Guzmán, Z and Borrás Enríquez, AJ and Alpuche, J and Castañeda-Hernández, G and Pérez-Campos, E and Hernández-Huerta, MT and Cabrera-Fuentes, HA},
title = {Proteomic signals are not equal clinical phenotypes: redefining evidence standards in arbovirus-SARS-CoV-2 cross-reactivity.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1849848},
pmid = {42292375},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Proteomics/methods ; Cross Reactions/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Dengue Virus/immunology ; *COVID-19/immunology ; Phenotype ; *Dengue/immunology/virology ; },
abstract = {The interaction between SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus represents a biologically plausible yet clinically unresolved challenge in regions where both pathogens co-circulate. Emerging omics-based studies propose that prior SARS-CoV-2 exposure may shape a distinct dengue phenotype through immune imprinting and antibody-dependent mechanisms. However, whether these molecular signals translate into clinically meaningful outcomes remains unclear. This Perspective argues that current evidence remains preliminary and insufficient for clinically actionable interpretation, particularly regarding the conflation of group-level proteomic signals with patient-level clinical phenotypes. Using a recent pilot proteomic study as an illustrative example, we highlight key methodological constraints, including pooled sampling, limited sample size, inadequate control of confounding, and absence of longitudinal and clinical validation. We propose a framework for advancing from exploratory omics observations to clinically interpretable evidence, emphasizing patient-level resolution, temporal dynamics, statistical rigor, functional validation, and integration with standardized clinical endpoints. We also examine the clinical and public health consequences of premature inference, including the potential for premature clinical interpretation, overestimation of disease associations, and challenges in translational interpretation. We conclude that proteomic signals should be regarded as hypothesis-generating rather than predictive until supported by robust, reproducible, and clinically anchored evidence.},
}

Humans
*Proteomics/methods
Cross Reactions/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Dengue Virus/immunology
*COVID-19/immunology
Phenotype
*Dengue/immunology/virology

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

Humans
United States
*COVID-19
*Internship and Residency
*Personnel Selection/methods
Pandemics
*Interviews as Topic

@article {pmid41762443,
year = {2026},
author = {Balakrishnar, K and Long, BS and Lo, J and Fiorini, LA and Gohar, B and Nowrouzi-Kia, B},
title = {Assessing the antecedents behind after-hours work in teleworkers: a scoping review.},
journal = {Journal of public health (Oxford, England)},
volume = {48},
number = {2},
pages = {582-593},
pmid = {41762443},
issn = {1741-3850},
mesh = {Humans ; *Teleworking/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Working Conditions ; Work Schedule Tolerance ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, telework arrangements have become increasingly prevalent, driven by benefits such as greater autonomy, reduced work-related stress, decreased commuting time and cost, and enhanced flexibility. Despite these advantages, teleworkers are more likely to engage in after-hours work, creating additional strain that may impact health and organizational outcomes.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across seven online databases: Medline via OVID, Embase via OVID, APA PsycINFO via OVID, International Bibliography of Social Sciences via ProQuest, Sociological Abstracts via ProQuest, Business Source Premier via EBSCOhost, and CINAHL via EBSCOhost. Studies were included if they were empirical, peer-reviewed, published between 2010 and 2024, examined the antecedents of after-hours work, and focused on adults aged 18 to 65 engaged in telework. Descriptive thematic analysis was conducted to develop themes and sub-themes.

RESULTS: Findings: A total of 17 studies were included in the review: 13 cross-sectional studies, three qualitative studies, and one longitudinal study. Using the Person-Environment-Occupation framework, three overarching themes were identified: (i) misalignment between personal capacities and occupational demands; (ii) environmental constraints that undermine healthy role balance; and (iii) occupational role strain in the context of remote work.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings may help to inform the development of targeted interventions that reduce cases of after-hours work among teleworkers and promote their overall health and well-being. Future research should examine these antecedents in non-Western contexts and explore the interplay between the individual, environmental, and occupational factors shaping after-hours work behaviors.},
}

Humans
*Teleworking/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Working Conditions
Work Schedule Tolerance

@article {pmid41762542,
year = {2026},
author = {Sagués, T and Ferrer, A and Delgado, JF and Julià, G and Rodríguez-González, R and Ruiz, À and Estrada, F and Soria, V and Palao, DJ and Labad, J and Montalvo, I},
title = {Clozapine use and COVID-19 risk: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and retrospective cohort evidence.},
journal = {Psychiatry research},
volume = {359},
number = {},
pages = {117040},
doi = {10.1016/j.psychres.2026.117040},
pmid = {41762542},
issn = {1872-7123},
mesh = {Humans ; *Clozapine/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; *Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy ; Severity of Illness Index ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Clozapine's immune-modulating effects, including neutropenia and suppression of adaptive immunity, have raised concerns about its potential impact on SARS-CoV-2 infection risk and COVID-19 severity in individuals with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Findings in the literature remain inconsistent.

METHODS: First, we conducted a longitudinal retrospective study in which we analysed 995 outpatients with severe mental disorders receiving antipsychotic treatment to assess the association between clozapine use and SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease severity. Secondly, we performed a systematic review of the literature and searched for studies published up to July 2025 examining the link between clozapine exposure and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Eight cohort studies plus our dataset were meta-analysed using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: In our cohort, clozapine users demonstrated a higher rate of SARS-CoV-2 infection (18% vs. 10%, p < 0.001) and increased COVID-19 severity compared to non-users. The meta-analysis comprised 155,945 participants, with individual study ORs ranging from 0.40 to 2.80. The pooled random-effects OR was 1.53 (95% CI: 1.02-2.30, p = 0.044), indicating a significant association between clozapine exposure and increased infection risk. However, high heterogeneity (I² = 91.2%) suggests variation in effects across studies.

CONCLUSIONS: Clozapine treatment is associated with an increased risk and severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although meta-analytic results support this association, substantial heterogeneity in pooled estimates highlights the need for further research to clarify underlying clinical and methodological factors influencing risk.},
}

Humans
*Clozapine/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Antipsychotic Agents/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Retrospective Studies
*Schizophrenia, Treatment-Resistant/drug therapy
Severity of Illness Index

@article {pmid41765774,
year = {2026},
author = {Andoh, JE and Fu, J and Nwanyanwu, KH},
title = {Impact of United States federal funding on equity and vision research: lessons from history, justice, and politics, 1968-2025.},
journal = {Current opinion in ophthalmology},
volume = {37},
number = {3},
pages = {162-167},
doi = {10.1097/ICU.0000000000001212},
pmid = {41765774},
issn = {1531-7021},
mesh = {United States ; Humans ; *Biomedical Research/economics ; *Politics ; *Financing, Government/history ; History, 20th Century ; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion ; *Health Equity ; History, 21st Century ; *Ophthalmology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Federal policy has long shaped the scope and inclusivity of vision research in the United States. This narrative review and opinion article evaluates the evolution of equity in vision research over time, from the landmark National Institutes of Health Revitalization Act of 1993 to the direct impact of federal policies in today's political landscape.

RECENT FINDINGS: Equity in vision research originated from early epidemiologic studies identifying social and behavioral determinants of health in the 1970s. The post-2020 period accelerated attention to structural disparities in healthcare, catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic and a national conversation on race. However, recent executive orders have reversed equity oriented federal policies, restricted terminology and data access, and changed research funding operations. These ongoing developments pose risks to progress in all areas of research.

SUMMARY: Equity in vision research in the United States remains vulnerable to federal priorities that serve to support or destabilize. The current political environment underscores the need for the ophthalmologic research community to safeguard data integrity, sustain diverse participation, and continue methodologically rigorous protocols to ensure continued progress toward equitable vision health.},
}

United States
Humans
*Biomedical Research/economics
*Politics
*Financing, Government/history
History, 20th Century
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
*Health Equity
History, 21st Century
*Ophthalmology
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid41783665,
year = {2025},
author = {Giri, B and Gurung, M and Adnani, QES and Chattu, VK},
title = {Mental Health of Nepalese Migrant Workers: A Call for Action in South Korea.},
journal = {JNMA; journal of the Nepal Medical Association},
volume = {63},
number = {288},
pages = {636-640},
pmid = {41783665},
issn = {1815-672X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Transients and Migrants/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Nepal/ethnology ; COVID-19 ; *Mental Health ; Republic of Korea/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; *Mental Disorders/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/psychology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {Mental health problems among migrants is a serious issue around the globe. Nepalese migrant workers in South Korea are facing serious mental health problem that affects not only the people involved but also the society at large. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already dire mental health situation of Nepali workers. Global health diplomacy can be a key factor in addressing mental health by engaging actors from various domains to evaluate mental health in global health priorities. This article reviews the current state of mental health and discusses the recent development in mental health among Nepalese migrant workers in South Korea.},
}

Humans
*Transients and Migrants/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Nepal/ethnology
COVID-19
*Mental Health
Republic of Korea/epidemiology
Pandemics
*Mental Disorders/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/psychology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41793747,
year = {2026},
author = {Poole-Wright, K and Woodhall, H and Chalder, T},
title = {Healthcare worker fatigue during COVID-19, SARS, and MERS: a meta-analysis.},
journal = {Occupational medicine (Oxford, England)},
volume = {76},
number = {2},
pages = {132-143},
pmid = {41793747},
issn = {1471-8405},
support = {//National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at South London/ ; //Maudsley National Health Service Foundation Trust and King's College London/ ; //National Health Service, National Institute for Health Research, or Department of Health/ ; //National Institute for Health Research/ ; //Biomedical Research Centre at South London and Maudsley/ ; //National Health Service Foundation Trust/ ; //King's College London/ ; //National Health Service/ ; /DH_/Department of Health/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; *Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology ; *Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; Frontline Workers ; Personal Protective Equipment ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The physical and psychological impact of caring for patients during a coronavirus public health emergency had adverse effects on healthcare workers (HCW), including fatigue.

AIMS: To examine the prevalence of fatigue among HCW during severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) or Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) and identify associated risk and protective factors.

METHODS: Systematic searches of Embase, PsycINFO, Ovid-MEDLINE, CINAHL, HMIC and the Cochrane Library were conducted to July 2024. Inclusion criteria were English-language quantitative reports of fatigue in HCW during COVID-19, SARS and MERS. Random-effects meta-analyses were used to estimate pooled prevalence. Subgroup analyses examined fatigue by role, frontline status and personal protective equipment (PPE).

RESULTS: Eighty-eight articles (n = 74 914) met our inclusion criteria; 32 were eligible for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of fatigue was 55% (95% CI 46-65%, k = 32). Mental fatigue was reported by 58% (95% CI 17-90%, k = 4), while 53% (95% CI 38-67%, k = 11) experienced fatigue related to PPE use. No significant differences were observed between doctors and nurses (P = 0.327) or frontline and non-frontline staff (P = 0.103). Risk factors included stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, workload and extended working hours, while resilience, self-efficacy and sufficient rest were protective. Substantial heterogeneity (I2 ∼99%) and reliance on cross-sectional designs limited causal inference.

CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicated that over half of HCW reported fatigue and highlighted its multifactorial nature. Organizational-level interventions, such as optimized shift patterns, mandated rest breaks and psychological support are essential to mitigate fatigue, safeguard wellbeing and ensure safe healthcare provision.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
*Health Personnel/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Fatigue/epidemiology/etiology
*Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/epidemiology
Prevalence
Frontline Workers
Personal Protective Equipment
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections
Risk Factors

@article {pmid42021332,
year = {2026},
author = {Halder, P and Debnath, A and Achary, T and Mondal, A and Dhandapani, G and Mandal, I and Saha, S and Nongkynrih, B and Thakur, JS},
title = {Systematic review and meta-analysis on depression burden among Type 2 diabetes patients in India.},
journal = {Diabetology & metabolic syndrome},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42021332},
issn = {1758-5996},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Depression and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) are closely linked health challenges in India, which currently has more than 101 million people living with diabetes. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of depression among Indian T2DM patients, highlight regional differences, and identify associated risk factors.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, a thorough search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science for studies published until February 3, 2025. Random-effects models were applied to calculate pooled prevalence, while subgroup analyses assessed variations by geographic region, diagnostic tool, and study setting. Heterogeneity was quantified using I² statistics. Publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger’s regression, with trim-and-fill analysis performed when bias was detected. Meta-regression examined the impact of covariates such as sample size, mean age, diabetes duration, hypertension, and urban residence.

RESULTS: A total of 59 studies with 24,073 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of depression among T2DM patients was 38% (95% CI: 33–42%), derived using a random-effects model to account for the substantial heterogeneity observed across studies (I² = 98.28%). This estimate reflects a statistical synthesis across studies with widely varying diagnostic tools, cutoff thresholds, and clinical settings, and should be interpreted as an approximation of the burden rather than a precise national prevalence figure. Mild, moderate, and severe depression accounted for 24%, 14%, and 14% of cases respectively. Regional variation was observed, with Western India showing the highest prevalence (48%) and multicenter studies the lowest (27%). Prevalence differed by diagnostic tool: CIDI-SF (20%), PHQ-9 (34%), and BDI (72% with lenient cutoffs). Hospital-based studies reported higher prevalence (42%) compared to community-based ones (28%). Females had a greater burden (39%) than males (31%). No significant differences were found between pre- and post-COVID-19 studies. Sensitivity analyses confirmed robustness of estimates. Meta-regression identified diabetes duration as a significant predictor (p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION: Nearly two in five Indian T2DM patients experience depression, emphasizing the urgent need for standardized screening and integration of mental health care into India’s National Program for Non-Communicable Diseases.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13098-026-02160-w.},
}

@article {pmid42285439,
year = {2026},
author = {Michas, G and Trikas, G and Trikas, A},
title = {Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Greece: Looking Beyond the Classics. A narrative review.},
journal = {Hellenic journal of cardiology : HJC = Hellenike kardiologike epitheorese},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.hjc.2026.06.002},
pmid = {42285439},
issn = {2241-5955},
abstract = {Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Greece, despite substantial reductions in age-standardized mortality over recent decades. These improvements have been largely confined to older populations, while the burden of cardiometabolic risk remains high. The Greek cardiovascular landscape has also evolved under the combined influence of population aging, the COVID-19 pandemic, persistent socioeconomic pressures, and increasingly stringent European Society of Cardiology targets for lipid and blood pressure control. Traditional determinants, particularly dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, unhealthy dietary patterns, smoking, and physical inactivity, remain prevalent and frequently suboptimally controlled. Against this background, residual risk and emerging determinants of disease are increasingly recognized as clinically relevant contributors to cardiovascular burden. This narrative review summarizes recent evidence on the role of non-traditional risk factors in the Greek population, including lipoprotein(a), inflammation, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, sleep disturbances, infections and vaccination, environmental exposures, mental health, and social determinants of health. Overall, the available evidence supports a broader cardiovascular prevention framework that extends beyond conventional risk-factor assessment. Integrating selected non-traditional determinants into clinical practice and prevention policy may improve risk stratification, support individualized care, and help address the evolving cardiovascular burden in Greece.},
}

@article {pmid32348545,
year = {2020},
author = {Galván Casas, C and Català, A and Carretero Hernández, G and Rodríguez-Jiménez, P and Fernández-Nieto, D and Rodríguez-Villa Lario, A and Navarro Fernández, I and Ruiz-Villaverde, R and Falkenhain-López, D and Llamas Velasco, M and García-Gavín, J and Baniandrés, O and González-Cruz, C and Morillas-Lahuerta, V and Cubiró, X and Figueras Nart, I and Selda-Enriquez, G and Romaní, J and Fustà-Novell, X and Melian-Olivera, A and Roncero Riesco, M and Burgos-Blasco, P and Sola Ortigosa, J and Feito Rodriguez, M and García-Doval, I},
title = {Classification of the cutaneous manifestations of COVID-19: a rapid prospective nationwide consensus study in Spain with 375 cases.},
journal = {The British journal of dermatology},
volume = {183},
number = {1},
pages = {71-77},
pmid = {32348545},
issn = {1365-2133},
mesh = {Adolescent ; Adult ; Aged ; Aged, 80 and over ; Betacoronavirus/*pathogenicity ; COVID-19 ; Child ; Coronavirus Infections/*complications/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology ; Dermatologists/statistics & numerical data ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pandemics ; Pneumonia, Viral/*complications/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology ; Prognosis ; Prospective Studies ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Skin Diseases, Viral/*classification/diagnosis/virology ; Spain/epidemiology ; Surveys and Questionnaires/statistics & numerical data ; Terminology as Topic ; Time Factors ; Young Adult ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The cutaneous manifestations of COVID-19 disease are poorly characterized.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the cutaneous manifestations of COVID-19 disease and to relate them to other clinical findings.

METHODS: We carried out a nationwide case collection survey of images and clinical data. Using a consensus we described five clinical patterns. We later described the association of these patterns with patient demographics, the timing in relation to symptoms of the disease, the severity and the prognosis.

RESULTS: The lesions may be classified as acral areas of erythema with vesicles or pustules (pseudo-chilblain) (19%), other vesicular eruptions (9%), urticarial lesions (19%), maculopapular eruptions (47%) and livedo or necrosis (6%). Vesicular eruptions appear early in the course of the disease (15% before other symptoms). The pseudo-chilblain pattern frequently appears late in the evolution of the COVID-19 disease (59% after other symptoms), while the rest tend to appear with other symptoms of COVID-19. The severity of COVID-19 shows a gradient from less severe disease in acral lesions to more severe in the latter groups. The results are similar for confirmed and suspected cases, in terms of both clinical and epidemiological findings. Alternative diagnoses are discussed but seem unlikely for the most specific patterns (pseudo-chilblain and vesicular).

CONCLUSIONS: We provide a description of the cutaneous manifestations associated with COVID-19 infection. These may help clinicians approach patients with the disease and recognize cases presenting with few symptoms. What is already known about this topic? Previous descriptions of cutaneous manifestations of COVID-19 were case reports and mostly lacked illustrations. What does this study add? We describe a large, representative sample of patients with unexplained skin manifestations and a diagnosis of COVID-19, using a consensus method to define morphological patterns associated with COVID-19. We describe five clinical patterns associated with different patient demographics, timing and prognosis, and provide illustrations of these patterns to allow for easy recognition.},
}

Adolescent
Adult
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Betacoronavirus/*pathogenicity
COVID-19
Child
Coronavirus Infections/*complications/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology
Dermatologists/statistics & numerical data
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Pandemics
Pneumonia, Viral/*complications/diagnosis/epidemiology/virology
Prognosis
Prospective Studies
SARS-CoV-2
Skin Diseases, Viral/*classification/diagnosis/virology
Spain/epidemiology
Surveys and Questionnaires/statistics & numerical data
Terminology as Topic
Time Factors
Young Adult

@article {pmid32727042,
year = {2020},
author = {Jiménez-Rodríguez, D and Ruiz-Salvador, D and Rodríguez Salvador, MDM and Pérez-Heredia, M and Muñoz Ronda, FJ and Arrogante, O},
title = {Consensus on Criteria for Good Practices in Video Consultation: A Delphi Study.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {17},
number = {15},
pages = {},
pmid = {32727042},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {Adult ; Betacoronavirus ; COVID-19 ; Communications Media ; Coronavirus Infections ; Delivery of Health Care ; Delphi Technique ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; Pandemics ; Pneumonia, Viral ; Referral and Consultation ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Telemedicine/methods/*standards ; },
abstract = {The use of telemedicine has greatly increased, largely derived from the COVID-19 pandemic, which has created the need for a guide aimed towards the adequate management of a modality of health care: the video consultation. A Delphi study composed of three rounds was conducted with 16 experts in holding video consultations and managing non-technical skills from different specialties and nationalities to conceive a consensus on the criteria needed for properly managing video consultations by healthcare professionals. The consensus criteria were defined by three dimensions (preparation of video consultation, video consultation process, and post-video consultation) and their corresponding items. Excellent consensus data was obtained; therefore, use is recommended by any healthcare professional who is going to utilize a video consultation, in order to manage it effectively.},
}

Adult
Betacoronavirus
COVID-19
Communications Media
Coronavirus Infections
Delivery of Health Care
Delphi Technique
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Pandemics
Pneumonia, Viral
Referral and Consultation
SARS-CoV-2
Telemedicine/methods/*standards

@article {pmid33397593,
year = {2021},
author = {Cakir, OO and Castiglione, F and Tandogdu, Z and Collins, J and Alnajjar, HM and Akers, C and Albersen, M and Alifrangis, C and Ayres, B and Brouwer, O and Cullen, I and Hawkey, P and Jakobsen, JK and Johansen, TEB and Kalejaiye, O and Kaul, A and Köves, B and Kumar, V and Mancini, M and Mitra, AV and Parnham, A and Pozzi, E and Protzel, C and Sangar, VK and Wagenlehner, F and Muneer, A},
title = {Management of penile cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: An eUROGEN accelerated Delphi consensus study.},
journal = {Urologic oncology},
volume = {39},
number = {3},
pages = {197.e9-197.e17},
pmid = {33397593},
issn = {1873-2496},
mesh = {COVID-19/*complications ; *Delphi Technique ; Disease Management ; Humans ; Male ; Penile Neoplasms/*therapy/virology ; Practice Guidelines as Topic/*standards ; SARS-CoV-2/*isolation & purification ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To develop an international consensus on managing penile cancer patients during the COVID-19 acute waves. A major concern for patients with penile cancer during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is how the enforced safety measures will affect their disease management. Delays in diagnosis and treatment initiation may have an impact on the extent of the primary lesion as well as the cancer-specific survival because of the development and progression of inguinal lymph node metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A review of the COVID-19 literature was conducted in conjunction with analysis of current international guidelines on the management of penile cancer. Results were presented to an international panel of experts on penile cancer and infection control by a virtual accelerated Delphi process using 4 survey rounds. Consensus opinion was defined as an agreement of ≥80%, which was used to reconfigure management pathways for penile cancer.

RESULTS: Limited evidence is available for delaying penile cancer management. The consensus rate of agreement was 100% that penile cancer pathways should be reconfigured, and measures should be developed to prevent perioperative nosocomial transmission of COVID-19. The panel also reached a consensus on several statements aimed at reconfiguring the management of penile cancer patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS: The international consensus panel proposed a framework for the diagnostic and invasive therapeutic procedures for penile cancer within a low-risk environment for COVID-19.},
}

COVID-19/*complications
*Delphi Technique
Disease Management
Humans
Male
Penile Neoplasms/*therapy/virology
Practice Guidelines as Topic/*standards
SARS-CoV-2/*isolation & purification

@article {pmid34312817,
year = {2022},
author = {Gallo, G and Picciariello, A and Di Tanna, GL and Santoro, GA and Perinotti, R and , and Grossi, U},
title = {E-consensus on telemedicine in colorectal surgery: a RAND/UCLA-modified study.},
journal = {Updates in surgery},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {163-170},
pmid = {34312817},
issn = {2038-3312},
mesh = {Adult ; *COVID-19 ; *Colorectal Surgery ; Humans ; Male ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is revolutionizing healthcare delivery. The aim of the study was to reach consensus among experts on the possible applications of telemedicine in colorectal surgery. A group of 48 clinical practice recommendations (CPRs) was developed by a clinical guidance group based on coalescence of evidence and expert opinion. The Telemedicine in Colorectal Surgery Italian Working Group included 54 colorectal surgeons affiliated to the Italian Society of Colo-Rectal Surgery (SICCR) who were involved in the evaluation of the appropriateness of each CPR, based on published RAND/UCLA methodology, in two rounds. Stakeholders' median age was 44.5 (IQR 36-60) years, and 44 (81%) were males. Agreement was obtained on the applicability of telemonitoring and telemedicine for multidisciplinary pre-operative evaluation. The panel voted against the use of telemedicine for a first consultation. 15/48 statements deemed uncertain on round 1 and were re-elaborated and assessed by 51/54 (94%) panelists on round 2. Consensus was achieved in all but one statement concerning the cost of a teleconsultation. There was strong agreement on the usefulness of teleconsultation during follow-up of patients with diverticular disease after an in-person visit. This e-consensus provides the boundaries of telemedicine in colorectal surgery in Italy. Standardization of infrastructures and costs remains to be better elucidated.},
}

Adult
*COVID-19
*Colorectal Surgery
Humans
Male
SARS-CoV-2
*Telemedicine

@article {pmid34746080,
year = {2021},
author = {Makivić, I and Švab, V and Selak, Š},
title = {Mental Health Needs Assessment During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Consensus Based on Delphi Study.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {732539},
pmid = {34746080},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {*COVID-19 ; Delphi Technique ; Humans ; Mental Health ; Needs Assessment ; *Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed significant gaps in mental health in terms of unrecognized and unmet needs. The goal was to accurately assess the needs and identify gaps in this area during the epidemiological crisis. A Delphi study to identify the needs was conducted with a group of decision-makers, experts, and users of mental health services. A starting point of the Delphi study was prepared in two working groups, based on recognizable international recommendations and experiences of the practitioners from the field situation. This initial set of emergency measures was supplemented through the first Delphi round, and consensus about the importance was reached in the second round. A total of 41 activities were derived, the vast majority of which were rated with a score of 4 or more. Mental health activities, which should be addressed in terms of needs, can be divided into systemic measures and service measures. This study recognizes a need to reorganize services in the direction of improving local accessibility and strengthening the network of services for immediate responses to the psychological, health, and social needs of individuals, including those arising from crisis situations, such as COVID-19 pandemic. The results of this study are in line with the international recommendations and also influenced the formulation of the Action Plan of the National Mental Health Program, while some of the measures were already implemented during the publication of the research results.},
}

*COVID-19
Delphi Technique
Humans
Mental Health
Needs Assessment
*Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid34948983,
year = {2021},
author = {Cascella, M and Miceli, L and Cutugno, F and Di Lorenzo, G and Morabito, A and Oriente, A and Massazza, G and Magni, A and Marinangeli, F and Cuomo, A and On Behalf Of The Delphi Panel, },
title = {A Delphi Consensus Approach for the Management of Chronic Pain during and after the COVID-19 Era.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {18},
number = {24},
pages = {},
pmid = {34948983},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {*COVID-19/complications ; *Chronic Pain/diagnosis/therapy ; Delphi Technique ; Humans ; *Pain Management ; Pandemics ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Due to a lack of published evidence on the topic, a modified Delphi approach was used to develop recommendations useful for chronic pain management during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Focusing on the available literature and personal clinical expertise, an Italian board of nine professionals from different disciplines identified four main topics: prevention of chronic pain, treatment of chronic pain, consequences of inadequate treatment, and perspectives. They elaborated a semi-structured questionnaire. A multidisciplinary panel of experts in the field of pain management was requested to comment on the statements. Based on the answers provided, a structured questionnaire was prepared (Round 1). It included 21 statements divided into three categories (organizational issues; diagnosis and therapies; telemedicine and future perspectives). A five-point Likert scale was adopted. The threshold for consensus was set at a minimum of 70% of the number of respondents (level of agreement ≥ 4, Agree or Strongly Agree). A final questionnaire with rephrasing of the statements that did not reach the consensus threshold was elaborated (Round 2). A total of 29 clinicians were included in the panel. Twenty clinicians (69%) responded in both the first and second round. After two rounds, consensus (≥70%) was achieved in 20 out of 21 statements. The lack of consensus was recorded for the statement regarding the management of post-COVID pain (55%; Median 4; IQR 2.3). Another statement on telemedicine reached the threshold in the first round (70%), but the value was not confirmed in Round 2 (65%; Median 4; IQR 2). Most of the proposed items reached consensus, suggesting the need to make organizational changes, the structuring of careful diagnostic and therapeutic pathways, and the application of new technologies in pain medicine. Long-COVID-19 care is an issue that needs further research. Remote assistance for chronic pain must be regulated.},
}

*COVID-19/complications
*Chronic Pain/diagnosis/therapy
Delphi Technique
Humans
*Pain Management
Pandemics
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid35149245,
year = {2022},
author = {Marino, LV and Collaço, NC and Ashton, JJ and Cader, S and Cooke, ML and Cooke, LH and Gerasimidis, K and Guz-Mark, A and Hulst, JM and Vranesic Bender, D and Huysentruyt, K and Joosten, K and Kolacek, S and Krznaric, Z and Meyer, R and Nemet, D and Niseteo, T and Selimoglu, MA and Shamir, R and Darlington, ASE and Beattie, RM},
title = {Pedi-R-MAPP: The development of a nutritional awareness tool for use in remote paediatric consultations using a modified Delphi consensus.},
journal = {Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland)},
volume = {41},
number = {3},
pages = {661-672},
doi = {10.1016/j.clnu.2022.01.009},
pmid = {35149245},
issn = {1532-1983},
mesh = {Adult ; COVID-19 ; Child ; *Child Health ; *Delphi Technique ; Dietetics/instrumentation/methods ; Evidence-Based Practice ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; *Nutrition Assessment ; Nutritional Status ; Pediatrics/instrumentation/methods ; Remote Consultation/*instrumentation/*methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND & AIMS: The Remote Malnutrition Application (R-MAPP) was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic to provide support for health care professionals (HCPs) working in the community to complete remote nutritional assessments, and provide practical guidance for nutritional care. The aim of this study was to modify the R-MAPP into a version suitable for children, Pediatric Remote Malnutrition Application (Pedi-R-MAPP), and provide a structured approach to completing a nutrition focused assessment as part of a technology enabled care service (TECS) consultation.

METHODS: A ten-step process was completed: 1) permission to modify adult R-MAPP, 2) literature search to inform the Pedi-R-MAPP content, 3) Pedi-R-MAPP draft, 4) international survey of HCP practice using TECS, 5) nutrition experts invited to participate in a modified Delphi process, 6) first stakeholder meeting to agree purpose/draft of the tool, 7) round-one online survey, 8) statements with consensus removed from survey, 9) round-two online survey for statements with no consensus and 10) second stakeholder meeting with finalisation of the Pedi-R-MAPP nutrition awareness tool.

RESULTS: The international survey completed by 463 HCPs, 55% paediatricians, 38% dietitians, 7% nurses/others. When HCPs were asked to look back over the last 12 months, dietitians (n = 110) reported that 5.7 ± 10.6 out of every 10 appointments were completed in person; compared to paediatricians (n = 182) who reported 7.5 ± 7.0 out of every 10 appointments to be in person (p < 0.0001), with the remainder completed as TECS consultations. Overall, 74 articles were identified and used to develop the Pedi-R-MAPP which included colour-coded advice using a traffic light system; green, amber, red and purple. Eighteen participants agreed to participate in the Delphi consensus and completed both rounds of the modified Delphi survey. Agreement was reached at the first meeting on the purpose and draft sections of the proposed tool. In round-one of the online survey, 86% (n = 89/104) of statements reached consensus, whereas in round-two 12.5% (n = 13/104) of statements reached no consensus. At the second expert meeting, contested statements were discussed until agreement was reached and the Pedi-R-MAPP could be finalised.

CONCLUSION: The Pedi-R-MAPP nutrition awareness tool was developed using a modified Delphi consensus. This tool aims to support the technological transformation fast-tracked by the COVID-19 pandemic by providing a structured approach to completing a remote nutrition focused assessment, as well as identifying the frequency of follow up along with those children who may require in-person assessment.},
}

Adult
COVID-19
Child
*Child Health
*Delphi Technique
Dietetics/instrumentation/methods
Evidence-Based Practice
Female
Humans
Male
*Nutrition Assessment
Nutritional Status
Pediatrics/instrumentation/methods
Remote Consultation/*instrumentation/*methods
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid36165114,
year = {2021},
author = {Pérez-Torres, A and Caverni Muñoz, A and Lou Arnal, LM and Sanz Paris, A and Vidal Peracho, C and La Torre Catalá, J and Sánchez Villanueva, R and Cigarrán Guldris, S and Trocoli González, F and Nogueira Pérez, Á and Sanjurjo Amado, A and González García, ME and Barril Cuadrado, G},
title = {Multidisciplinary nutritional consensus on assessment and nutritional dietary treatment in patients with chronic kidney disease and SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Nefrologia},
volume = {41},
number = {4},
pages = {453-460},
pmid = {36165114},
issn = {2013-2514},
mesh = {Anorexia ; *COVID-19/complications ; Diet ; Humans ; RNA, Viral ; *Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/complications/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Sarcopenia/etiology ; },
abstract = {The presence of malnutrition in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is high, it can be made worse by SARS-CoV2 infection. The nutritional assessment should be adapted to minimize the infection, recommending monitoring: weight loss percentage, body mass index (BMI), loss of appetite, analytical parameters and functional capacity using the dynamometer. As well as the sarcopenia assessment using the SCARF scale, and the possibility of using the GLIM criteria in those patients who have been tested positive by MUST. It is important to adapt the nutritional recommendations in the caloric and protein intake, to the CKD stage and to the SARS-CoV2 infection stage. In patients with hypercatabolism, to prioritize preserving the nutritional status (35 kcal/kg weight/day, proteins up to 1.5 g/kg/day). The rest of the nutrients will be adapted to CKD stage and the analytical values. In the post-infection stage, a complete nutritional assessment is recommended, including sarcopenia. The energy and protein requirements in this phase will be adapted to the nutritional status, with special attention to the loss of muscle mass. Dietary recommendations need to be tailored to side effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection: anorexia, dysphagia, dysgeusia, and diarrhea. Anorexia and hypercatabolism makes it difficult to meet the requirements through diet, therefore the use of oral nutritional supplements is recommended as well as the enteral or parenteral nutrition in severe phases.},
}

Anorexia
*COVID-19/complications
Diet
Humans
RNA, Viral
*Renal Insufficiency, Chronic/complications/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
*Sarcopenia/etiology

@article {pmid36586487,
year = {2023},
author = {Goya, S and Sosa, E and Nabaes Jodar, M and Torres, C and König, G and Acuña, D and Ceballos, S and Distéfano, AJ and Dopazo, H and Dus Santos, M and Fass, M and Fernández Do Porto, D and Fernández, A and Gallego, F and Gismondi, MI and Gramundi, I and Lusso, S and Martí, M and Mazzeo, M and Mistchenko, AS and Muñoz Hidalgo, M and Natale, M and Nardi, C and Ousset, J and Peralta, AV and Pintos, C and Puebla, AF and Pianciola, L and Rivarola, M and Turjanski, A and Valinotto, L and Vera, PA and Zaiat, J and Zubrycki, J and , and Aulicino, P and Viegas, M},
title = {Assessing the hidden diversity underlying consensus sequences of SARS-CoV-2 using VICOS, a novel bioinformatic pipeline for identification of mixed viral populations.},
journal = {Virus research},
volume = {325},
number = {},
pages = {199035},
pmid = {36586487},
issn = {1872-7492},
support = {BB/P027849/1/BB_/Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; *COVID-19 ; *Coinfection ; Phylogeny ; Genome, Viral ; Computational Biology ; Consensus Sequence ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Coinfection with two SARS-CoV-2 viruses is still a very understudied phenomenon. Although next generation sequencing methods are very sensitive to detect heterogeneous viral populations in a sample, there is no standardized method for their characterization, so their clinical and epidemiological importance is unknown.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: We developed VICOS (Viral COinfection Surveillance), a new bioinformatic algorithm for variant calling, filtering and statistical analysis to identify samples suspected of being mixed SARS-CoV-2 populations from a large dataset in the framework of a community genomic surveillance. VICOS was used to detect SARS-CoV-2 coinfections in a dataset of 1,097 complete genomes collected between March 2020 and August 2021 in Argentina.

RESULTS: We detected 23 cases (2%) of SARS-CoV-2 coinfections. Detailed study of VICOS's results together with additional phylogenetic analysis revealed 3 cases of coinfections by two viruses of the same lineage, 2 cases by viruses of different genetic lineages, 13 were compatible with both coinfection and intra-host evolution, and 5 cases were likely a product of laboratory contamination.

DISCUSSION: Intra-sample viral diversity provides important information to understand the transmission dynamics of SARS-CoV-2. Advanced bioinformatics tools, such as VICOS, are a necessary resource to help unveil the hidden diversity of SARS-CoV-2.},
}

Humans
SARS-CoV-2/genetics
*COVID-19
*Coinfection
Phylogeny
Genome, Viral
Computational Biology
Consensus Sequence

@article {pmid36745548,
year = {2023},
author = {Killough, N and Patterson, L and The Covid-Genomics Uk Cog-Uk Consortium, and Peacock, SJ and Bradley, DT},
title = {How public health authorities can use pathogen genomics in health protection practice: a consensus-building Delphi study conducted in the United Kingdom.},
journal = {Microbial genomics},
volume = {9},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {36745548},
issn = {2057-5858},
support = {/WT_/Wellcome Trust/United Kingdom ; MC_PC_19027/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MR/L015080/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; MR/T030062/1/MRC_/Medical Research Council/United Kingdom ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Public Health ; Delphi Technique ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2/genetics ; United Kingdom ; Genomics ; },
abstract = {Pathogen sequencing guided understanding of SARS-CoV-2 evolution during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many health systems developed pathogen genomics services to monitor SARS-CoV-2. There are no agreed guidelines about how pathogen genomic information should be used in public health practice. We undertook a modified Delphi study in three rounds to develop expert consensus statements about how genomic information should be used. Our aim was to inform health protection policy, planning and practice. Participants were from organisations that produced or used pathogen genomics information in the United Kingdom. The first round posed questions derived from a rapid literature review. Responses informed statements for the subsequent rounds. Consensus was accepted when 70 % or more of the responses were strongly agree/agree, or 70 % were disagree/strongly disagree on the five-point Likert scale. Consensus was achieved in 26 (96 %) of 27 statements. We grouped the statements into six categories: monitoring the emergence of new variants; understanding the epidemiological context of genomic data; using genomic data in outbreak risk assessment and risk management; prioritising the use of limited sequencing capacity; sequencing service performance; and sequencing service capability. The expert consensus statements will help guide public health authorities and policymakers to integrate pathogen genomics in health protection practice.},
}

Humans
*Public Health
Delphi Technique
Pandemics/prevention & control
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2/genetics
United Kingdom
Genomics

@article {pmid37561978,
year = {2023},
author = {Fox, L and Santaolalla, A and Handford, J and Sullivan, R and Torode, J and Vanderpuye, V and Pramesh, CS and Mula-Hussain, L and AlWaheidi, S and Makaroff, LE and Kaur, R and Mackay, C and Mukherji, D and Van Hemelrijck, M},
title = {Redefining Cancer Research Priorities in Low- and Middle-Income Countries in the Post-COVID-19 Global Context: A Modified Delphi Consensus Process.},
journal = {JCO global oncology},
volume = {9},
number = {},
pages = {e2300111},
pmid = {37561978},
issn = {2687-8941},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; Delphi Technique ; Developing Countries ; Ecosystem ; *Neoplasms/therapy ; Research ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: The post-COVID-19 funding landscape for cancer research globally has become increasingly challenging, particularly in resource-challenged regions (RCRs) lacking strong research ecosystems. We aimed to produce a list of priority areas for cancer research in countries with limited resources, informed by researchers and patients.

METHODS: Cancer experts in lower-resource health care systems (as defined by the World Bank as low- and middle-income countries; N = 151) were contacted to participate in a modified consensus-seeking Delphi survey, comprising two rounds. In round 1, participants (n = 69) rated predetermined areas of potential research priority (ARPs) for importance and suggested missing ARPs. In round 2, the same participants (n = 49) rated an integrated list of predetermined and suggested ARPs from round 1, then undertook a forced choice priority ranking exercise. Composite voting scores (T-scores) were used to rank the ARPs. Importance ratings were summarized descriptively. Findings were discussed with international patient advocacy organization representatives.

RESULTS: The top ARP was research into strategies adapting guidelines or treatment strategies in line with available resources (particularly systemic therapy) (T = 83). Others included cancer registries (T = 62); prevention (T = 52); end-of-life care (T = 53); and value-based and affordable care (T = 51). The top COVID-19/cancer ARP was strategies to incorporate what has been learned during the pandemic that can be maintained posteriorly (T = 36). Others included treatment schedule interruption (T = 24); cost-effective reduction of COVID-19 morbidity/mortality (T = 19); and pandemic preparedness (T = 18).

CONCLUSION: Areas of strategic priority favored by cancer researchers in RCRs are related to adaptive treatment guidelines; sustainable implementation of cancer registries; prevention strategies; value-based and affordable cancer care; investments in research capacity building; epidemiologic work on local risk factors for cancer; and combatting inequities of prevention and care access.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
Delphi Technique
Developing Countries
Ecosystem
*Neoplasms/therapy
Research

@article {pmid38901064,
year = {2024},
author = {Delaney, KR and Gomes, M and Browne, NT and Jordan, D and Snethen, J and Lewis-O'Connor, A and Horowitz, JA and Cogan, R and Duderstadt, KG},
title = {The mental and behavioral health crisis in youth: Strategic solutions post COVID-19 pandemic: An American Academy of Nursing consensus paper.},
journal = {Nursing outlook},
volume = {72},
number = {5},
pages = {102177},
doi = {10.1016/j.outlook.2024.102177},
pmid = {38901064},
issn = {1528-3968},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Adolescent ; United States ; Societies, Nursing ; Female ; Male ; Resilience, Psychological ; Mental Health ; School Nursing ; Sexual and Gender Minorities/psychology ; Pandemics ; Mental Disorders/nursing ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic wrought significant negative impacts on youth well-being, particularly among Black, Hispanic, American Indian, Alaska Native, and LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning) youth. The pandemic disrupted connections to family, school, and community, which are essential supports for youth mental health. Lessons learned from the pandemic suggest the role of stress and windows of opportunity to build resiliency. Drawing from a policy dialog on the youth mental health crisis conducted by 4 American Academy of Nursing Expert Panels, we present approaches to the current increase in youth mental health problems. Included is emerging literature on building youth resilience, particularly via re-establishing school and community connections. The role of families, schools, and community support is emphasized, particularly by creating a healing school environment and the pivotal role of school nurses. Recommendations include increased support for families, engaging the school nurse role, and developing school-based innovative programs to build connections and youth wellness.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Adolescent
United States
Societies, Nursing
Female
Male
Resilience, Psychological
Mental Health
School Nursing
Sexual and Gender Minorities/psychology
Pandemics
Mental Disorders/nursing

@article {pmid38990157,
year = {2024},
author = {Holt, G and Hughes, D},
title = {Consensus study on UK weight management services' response to COVID-19: best practices in outpatient management, governance and digital solutions.},
journal = {Journal of human nutrition and dietetics : the official journal of the British Dietetic Association},
volume = {37},
number = {5},
pages = {1255-1264},
doi = {10.1111/jhn.13346},
pmid = {38990157},
issn = {1365-277X},
support = {//The Association for the Study of Obesity/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; United Kingdom ; *Obesity/therapy ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; Delphi Technique ; Ambulatory Care/standards/organization & administration ; Practice Guidelines as Topic ; Pandemics ; Patient Education as Topic ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic put unprecedented pressure on weight management services. These services were required to adapt to continue to provide care for people living with obesity. This study sought to develop consensus recommendations on the best practice solutions adopted by weight management services in the United Kingdom during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS: This study utilised a semi-structured interview and a modified Delphi methodology to develop a consensus of best practice recommendations identified by specialist weight management services during the pandemic.

RESULTS: Twenty-three healthcare professionals working in weight management service across the United Kingdom participated in the study. Analysis of interview transcripts identified four key thematic domains: outpatient, patient education and support, perioperative care and team working. Of the initial 43 unique recommendations, 30 reached consensus agreement. Outpatient recommendations focused on communication strategies, patient self-monitoring and remote patient tracking. Patient education and support recommendations addressed the development of online educational resources and support groups. Perioperative care recommendations emphasised case prioritisation, waiting list support and postoperative care. Team working recommendations targeted the use of digital collaboration tools and strategies for effective teamwork.

CONCLUSION: Developing consensus recommendations on best practice is a critical step for weight management and outpatient services to achieve higher standards of care. These recommendations provide a springboard for departmental discussions, paving the way for improved experiences for individuals living with obesity as they progress along their weight management journey.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy
United Kingdom
*Obesity/therapy
*SARS-CoV-2
Delphi Technique
Ambulatory Care/standards/organization & administration
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Pandemics
Patient Education as Topic

@article {pmid39152097,
year = {2024},
author = {Hoelscher, SH and McBride, S and Bumpus, S and Gilder, RE and Elkind, E},
title = {A Study to Determine Consensus for Nursing Documentation Reduction in Times of Crisis.},
journal = {Computers, informatics, nursing : CIN},
volume = {42},
number = {10},
pages = {712-721},
pmid = {39152097},
issn = {1538-9774},
mesh = {Humans ; *Documentation/standards ; COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology ; Electronic Health Records/statistics & numerical data/standards ; Nursing Records/standards ; },
abstract = {Nurses faced numerous challenges during the pandemic, particularly with the increased burden of electronic documentation. Surges in patient volume and visits led to rapid changes in nursing documentation, prompting diverse responses from regulatory and healthcare organizations. Nurses expressed safety concerns and struggled with changes, calling for national standards and regulatory support. Policy relaxations, such as the 1135 Waiver, sparked debate on the future of nursing care plan documentation. Using mixed-methods exploratory design, the study identified modifications of nursing documentation during crises, commonalities in documentation burden reduction for applicability beyond pandemics, and consensus on the definition of "surge." Documentation patterns were assessed from February to November 2022, involving 175 North American nurse leaders and informaticists. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Significant differences were found between rural and urban settings (P = .02), with urban areas showing higher odds of changes to care plans (odds ratio, 4.889; 95% confidence interval, 1.27-18.78). Key findings highlighted the persistence of postcrisis documentation changes and varied definitions of surge criteria based on organizational leadership, policy, and mandates. The study yielded insights for modifying documentation, offering policy recommendations, and emphasizing ongoing collaboration and evidence-based approaches for future nursing practices.},
}

Humans
*Documentation/standards
COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology
Electronic Health Records/statistics & numerical data/standards
Nursing Records/standards

@article {pmid39865829,
year = {2026},
author = {Mishra, G and Rathee, S and Garg, M and Patil, UK},
title = {mRNA Vaccines: Unlocking Potential, Exploring Applications, and Envisioning Future Horizons.},
journal = {Current drug delivery},
volume = {23},
number = {3},
pages = {351-372},
doi = {10.2174/0115672018320938241121075859},
pmid = {39865829},
issn = {1875-5704},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; *Vaccine Development/methods ; *Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {In recent years, there have been notable strides in developing mRNA vaccines, resulting in the creation of potent immunizations against diverse diseases. This review examines the most recent advancements in this field, focusing on their implications for future vaccine development. The pursuit of heightened vaccine efficacy is investigated through cutting-edge methods in adjuvant selection, delivery system optimization, and antigen selection. The review also explores the potential for personalized vaccines based on genetic profiles, along with the latest techniques to ensure vaccine stability and extend shelf life. Highlighting the versatility of mRNA vaccines in addressing emerging infectious diseases and their variations, the review underscores the significance of swift response plans and advanced technologies to counter evolving viral mutations. In summary, this in-depth analysis emphasizes how mRNA vaccines hold transformative potential in reshaping both therapeutic and preventive strategies. Notable achievements include the creation of extremely potent mRNA vaccinations against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic. Ongoing efforts to address challenges like long-term immune protection and increase the effectiveness and stability of mRNA vaccines are also discussed. This review's main goal is to provide a thorough summary of current advancements in mRNA vaccine technology while exploring how these advances may impact future approaches to treating and preventing different diseases.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
*Vaccine Development/methods
*Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid40207810,
year = {2026},
author = {Prabha, T and Thangavelu, S and Parameswaran, D and Kathiravan, MK and Selvaraj, H and Lalitha Chaitanya, MVN and Bhuvaneswari, SS and Selvaraj, J},
title = {Virtual Screening Approaches Towards the Discovery of Toll-like Receptor 7 (TLR7) Antagonists for the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis During COVID Infection.},
journal = {Current rheumatology reviews},
volume = {22},
number = {2},
pages = {1-14},
pmid = {40207810},
issn = {1875-6360},
mesh = {Humans ; *Arthritis, Rheumatoid/drug therapy/complications ; *Toll-Like Receptor 7/antagonists & inhibitors ; COVID-19/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications ; Drug Discovery ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Rheumatoid arthritis(RA) patients prompt to have high level of TLR7, when coronavirus (CoV-2) infect to these patients, further the level of TLR7 cloud be upregulated and leads to severe condition of RA. Since, some TLR7 antagonists targeting the TLR7 protein are in the clinical trials, but yet to reach the market, and many lead to serious toxicities.

OBJECTIVE: So, we have framed a hypothesis to discover the TLR7 antagonist that may inhibit to the upregulation of TLR 7 in RA patients during the CoV-2 infection via virtual screening methodology.

METHODS: Here we have focused to discover some novel TLR7 inhibitors from the ZINC database, which may effectively inhibit TLR7. Series of virtual screening analysis lead to the discovery of three active hits.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Among these three molecules, ZINC95412580 had a highest binding energy of -15.4273 kcal/mol against the TLR7 protein (PDB Id: 6LW1) that also showed the maximum interactions within the binding pocket. c Conclusion: Thus, the compounds discovered through the use of various software can possibly be used for the management of rheumatoid arthritis during and after COVID infection. Hence, we can conclude that these molecules might be served as the inhibitors of TLR7 upregulation.},
}

Humans
*Arthritis, Rheumatoid/drug therapy/complications
*Toll-Like Receptor 7/antagonists & inhibitors
COVID-19/complications
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/complications
Drug Discovery
Pandemics

@article {pmid40561297,
year = {2025},
author = {Alves, NS and Silva, END and Melo, GBT and Paulino, MAS and Angulo-Tuesta, A},
title = {Agenda for COVID-19 and long COVID research priorities in Brazil: results of wide consultation and Delphi consensus, 2022-2023.},
journal = {Epidemiologia e servicos de saude : revista do Sistema Unico de Saude do Brasil},
volume = {34},
number = {},
pages = {e20240623},
pmid = {40561297},
issn = {2237-9622},
mesh = {Brazil/epidemiology ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Delphi Technique ; *Research/organization & administration ; Qualitative Research ; *Biomedical Research ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To propose an agenda of COVID-19 and long COVID research priorities, in order to guide government and research funding agencies to optimize health science, technology and innovation resources in Brazil.

METHODS: This is a qualitative study, carried out in two stages, between April 2022 and March 2023. In the first stage, a broad consultation was carried out to identify research priorities according to the axes of the COVID-19 Evidence Network to support Decision-making initiative, with 71 participants including researchers, health service managers, health science and technology managers, health professionals and health service users. In the second stage, a consensus was reached on the priorities proposed in the previous stage, using the Delphi method, with a panel of 20 experts on COVID-19 in the first round and 18 in the second round.

RESULTS: In the broad consultation, 186 priority lines of research on COVID-19 were received and consolidated into 161 research lines. Of these, 139 achieved consensus in the first round of the Delphi method, and a further 40 lines were received and included in the second round for consensus. The proposed agenda has 179 research lines on COVID-19. The predominant themes were evaluation, COVID-19 impact and sequelae, long COVID-19, mental illnesses and immunosuppression. The child population was of greatest interest.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated high levels of agreement among participants on COVID-19 and long COVID research priorities in Brazil.},
}

Brazil/epidemiology
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Delphi Technique
*Research/organization & administration
Qualitative Research
*Biomedical Research

@article {pmid40619759,
year = {2025},
author = {Lee, J and Cowling, J and Smith, ME and Mehta, N and Spinos, D and Coulson, C and Muzaffar, J and , and , },
title = {CAMERA: A Consensus Study to Ascertain Minimum Datasets for Ear Remote Assessments.},
journal = {Clinical otolaryngology : official journal of ENT-UK ; official journal of Netherlands Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology & Cervico-Facial Surgery},
volume = {50},
number = {6},
pages = {1002-1010},
doi = {10.1111/coa.70008},
pmid = {40619759},
issn = {1749-4486},
support = {//ENTUK Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Delphi Technique ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; United Kingdom ; *Ear Diseases/diagnosis ; Telemedicine ; *Remote Consultation ; *Datasets as Topic ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Otolaryngology ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Remote healthcare has demonstrated benefits in providing high quality care, improving patient access, and reducing morbidity. In ear, nose, and throat surgery, there has been a recent surge in remote care driven by advancements including endoscopic otoscopy and boothless audiometry, as well as the coronavirus pandemic, but uncertainty exists regarding the minimum data needed for accurate remote diagnosis.

METHODS: A panel of otology, audiology, general practice, and audiovestibular physicians was invited, and a literature review was undertaken to populate candidate dataset items for Round 1 of the Delphi process using the web-based software, Welphi. This was followed by two further Rounds, with controlled anonymised item-rating and qualitative feedback between rounds. Finally, a consensus meeting analysed and organised the results for dissemination of the final consensus outcomes.

RESULTS: Seventy studies were used to populate the questionnaire in Round 1. Thirty-four multi-disciplinary expert panellists determined the final data items across the 3 Delphi Rounds. Experts worked at over 16 different centres across the United Kingdom. There was an average response rate of 94% across all rounds.

DISCUSSION: This study highlights a multidisciplinary team's consensus essential dataset for effective remote ear assessment. With NHS waiting lists at an all-time high, remote assessment capacity could alleviate strain and enhance patient care. This initiative will facilitate novel service and pathway redesign with the aim of ensuring all patients have access to high-quality ear assessments, regardless of location. We are also hopeful that this standardised dataset will also facilitate research and audit of remote ear services.},
}

Humans
Delphi Technique
COVID-19/epidemiology
United Kingdom
*Ear Diseases/diagnosis
Telemedicine
*Remote Consultation
*Datasets as Topic
SARS-CoV-2
Otolaryngology

@article {pmid40754877,
year = {2026},
author = {Nori, W and Hussein, ZA and Hamed, RM and Taha, M and Pantazi, AC},
title = {Bridging Gaps in Long COVID Therapy: A Review.},
journal = {Current medicinal chemistry},
volume = {33},
number = {10},
pages = {1918-1940},
pmid = {40754877},
issn = {1875-533X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quality of Life ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Pandemics ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Coronavirus Infections/therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/therapy ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Long COVID-19 (LC) is a condition that follows SARS-CoV- -2, an acute infection defined by persistent fatigue, dyspnea, and impaired cognitive function. LC presents a complex array that imposes ongoing challenges on global health, patients' quality of life, and functional capacity. Many inconsistencies surround its pathophysiology, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. This review aims to cover missed gaps in LC with a special focus on therapeutic strategies concerning non-pharmacological, pharmacological, experimental, and innovative approaches for better patient management and outcomes, as well as to evaluate their effectiveness and guide future research.

METHODS: An online search was conducted using five digital repositories: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. A combination of keywords associated with LC therapy was employed: "long COVID, "pharmacological options," "non-pharmacological options," "innovative strategies," "experimental", and" quality of life (QOL)." Relevant data were extracted and synthesized to categorize therapeutic approaches into subtypes. A critical analysis was conducted on their mechanism of action, indication, outcome, and limitations.

RESULTS: The pooled prevalence of LC was 42%, and the symptom duration ranged from 3 months to 2 years. The most important risk factors for LC were female sex, unvaccinated status, and cases with co-morbidities. Diagnosis of LC was challenging due to a lack of diagnostic standardization and reliable biomarkers.

DISCUSSION: Non-pharmacological strategies were employed first, showing diverse efficacies; however, the reported literature was hindered by small sampling. Pharmacological agents show promising results but need further validation. Experimental and innovative strategies need longer studies and validations.

CONCLUSION: LC has imposed a significant burden on community health, necessitating the appropriate allocation of health resources and community support. Preventive and therapeutic interventions show promise, but the variability in patient response underscores the need for personalized approaches and more well-designed trials. Collaborative research and multi-disciplinary teams are needed to mitigate the long-term effects of LC and improve patient outcomes.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Quality of Life
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Pandemics
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Coronavirus Infections/therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/therapy

@article {pmid40931721,
year = {2025},
author = {Parodi, JF and Runzer-Colmenares, FM and Cano-Gutiérrez, C and Dinamarca-Montecinos, JL and de La Torre, PB and Boas, PFV and Flores-Cohaila, JA and Urrunaga-Pastor, D and Gutiérrez-Robledo, LM},
title = {Developing a Latin American Delphi Consensus on Vaccination for Respiratory Diseases in Older Adults.},
journal = {Annals of geriatric medicine and research},
volume = {29},
number = {4},
pages = {440-449},
pmid = {40931721},
issn = {2508-4909},
support = {//Academia Latinoamericana de Medicina del Adulto Mayor/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Latin America ; Delphi Technique ; Aged ; *Vaccination/standards ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage ; COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Aged, 80 and over ; Male ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Respiratory infections significantly impact older adults in Latin America, highlighting the need for regionally adapted consensus-based vaccination recommendations to guide preventive strategies. This study aimed to develop a consensus among Latin American experts on vaccination against respiratory diseases in older adults in the region, including influenza, Streptococcus pneumoniae pneumonia, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pertussis.

METHODS: A two-round Delphi methodology was employed, involving 35 specialists from various medical fields. A rapid evidence review was conducted using scientific databases and clinical practice guideline repositories. Participants evaluated each recommendation on a 1-to-5 scale; recommendations with 80% acceptance (score of 4 or higher) were approved.

RESULTS: The consensus resulted in recommendations for administering Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis) boosters every 10 years for pertussis and annual influenza vaccination in adults aged 65 years or older, using high-dose or adjuvanted formulations. Additionally, primary and annual booster COVID-19 vaccinations were recommended, along with a single dose of RSV vaccine for individuals aged 75 years and older, providing protection for at least two winter seasons. Routine administration of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 15 (PCV15) or PCV20 was also recommended for adults aged 65 years or older who had not previously received a PCV.

CONCLUSIONS: The consensus provides a vaccination guide tailored to the Latin American context, aiming to bridge gaps in vaccination coverage among older adults in the region. This effort seeks to reduce the burden of respiratory diseases on frail healthcare systems and promote healthy aging in Latin America.},
}

Humans
Latin America
Delphi Technique
Aged
*Vaccination/standards
COVID-19/prevention & control
Influenza Vaccines/administration & dosage
Pneumococcal Vaccines/administration & dosage
COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2
Aged, 80 and over
Male
Female

@article {pmid41081723,
year = {2025},
author = {Schlak, A and Seidel, I and Awan, O and Neal, J and Rao, M and Janssen, K and Warner, D and Lee, K and Park, A and Adly, M and Brill, E and Atkins, D and Jones, BE and Wander, PL},
title = {Reaching Consensus on Long COVID Symptoms and Patient-Reported Outcomes Across the Veterans Health Administration Using a Modified Hybrid Nominal Group-Delphi Approach.},
journal = {Medical care},
volume = {63},
number = {11},
pages = {842-850},
doi = {10.1097/MLR.0000000000002194},
pmid = {41081723},
issn = {1537-1948},
mesh = {Humans ; United States ; Delphi Technique ; *COVID-19/complications ; *United States Department of Veterans Affairs ; *Patient Reported Outcome Measures ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: A consistent approach to track Long COVID symptoms at the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) was lacking.

OBJECTIVES: To reach consensus among clinical stakeholders on how long COVID symptoms should be assessed at VHA outpatient visits and recommend an assessment battery.

RESEARCH DESIGN: Hybrid Delphi-Nominal Group approach.

SUBJECTS: Members of the VHA Long COVID Field Advisory Board (FAB) and the VHA Long COVID Community of Practice (CoP) participated. Veteran stakeholders provided input.

MEASURES: A literature review and clinician questionnaires identified 68 instruments across 14 symptom domains. In the first consensus round, FAB members excluded instruments with limited clinical usability. The remaining 25 instruments were ranked by CoP members. Multiple rounds of asynchronous voting were conducted until one instrument remained per domain. The top instruments were grouped into 3 batteries. Final consensus on a preferred battery was reached through additional voting. Veterans from the Los Angeles Veteran Engagement Panel assessed clarity, burden, and feasibility.

RESULTS: The final battery included the Modified Yorkshire COVID-19 Rehabilitation Survey, VHA Whole Health Well-Being Signs, the Exercise Vital Signs Questionnaire, and the 2-Minute Step Test. Whole Health questions were also included to support the VHA's Whole Health System mission. Symptom-specific instruments already used in VHA routine care were not included in the final battery, as clinics already had access to them.

CONCLUSIONS: A structured, rapid consensus process was used to identify a battery of symptom instruments to standardize Long COVID symptom assessment across VHA clinics.},
}

Humans
United States
Delphi Technique
*COVID-19/complications
*United States Department of Veterans Affairs
*Patient Reported Outcome Measures
SARS-CoV-2
Surveys and Questionnaires
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome

@article {pmid41338651,
year = {2025},
author = {Mazurik, K and Amah, A and Dumitrescu, DI and Ejalonibu, H and Chavda, B and Kemp, D and Frederick, DE and Mclean, C and Décary, S and Gruneir, A and Halas, G and Hoens, A and Kho, M and , and Groot, G},
title = {Developing a minimum dataset for a national patient registry on Long COVID in Canada: a Delphi consensus-based study.},
journal = {BMJ open},
volume = {15},
number = {12},
pages = {e111474},
pmid = {41338651},
issn = {2044-6055},
mesh = {Humans ; Canada/epidemiology ; Delphi Technique ; *Registries ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Surveys and Questionnaires ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Datasets as Topic ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To develop survey items for a national patient registry on Long COVID using a modified Delphi process.

DESIGN: This study was based on a modified Delphi process involving three rounds of anonymous, online surveys to develop consensus on and prioritise survey elements to be included in a minimum dataset for use in a national patient registry in Canada. Initial Long COVID items were identified through an environmental scan of the literature.

SETTING: This study focused on healthcare systems in Canada and was conducted online.

PARTICIPANTS: A panel of 52 experts (patients, caregivers, clinicians and researchers) participated in all three rounds of the online survey. These participants were recruited through the Long COVID Web network and word of mouth.

RESULTS: In total, 243 survey elements related to care, quality of life and symptoms were included in round 1 of the survey. 200 reached consensus and moved to round 2 with two additional elements being developed based on open-ended responses. In round 2, participants ranked these survey elements and 34 advanced. In round 3, 33 survey elements met the threshold of consensus with one added a priori. The 33 survey elements were then used to develop a Long COVID minimum dataset, which consists of 48 items.

CONCLUSIONS: The findings affirm broad consensus for collecting data related to fatigue, post-exertional malaise, cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems and cognitive issues. This highlighted the desire for quality-of-life indicators and information related to care utilisation, quality and access.},
}

Humans
Canada/epidemiology
Delphi Technique
*Registries
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2
Surveys and Questionnaires
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Datasets as Topic

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

Humans
Cell-Free System
*Vaccines/biosynthesis
Animals
*Vaccine Development/methods

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

*Drug Resistance, Bacterial
*Bacterial Vaccines
Humans
*Viral Vaccines
Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology
*Drug Resistance, Microbial

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

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

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

Humans
*Alzheimer Disease/pathology/metabolism/virology
*Golgi Apparatus/pathology/metabolism/virology
*COVID-19/metabolism/pathology/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Pandemics
*Betacoronavirus
*Coronavirus Infections/pathology/complications/metabolism
*Pneumonia, Viral/pathology/complications/metabolism

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Adult
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
Middle Aged
Aged
Female
Adolescent
Young Adult
United States
Vaccine Efficacy
SARS-CoV-2

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

Humans
*Polyphosphates/pharmacology/therapeutic use
Animals
*Mucus/drug effects/metabolism
*Wound Healing/drug effects
*Respiratory Mucosa/drug effects/pathology
Mucins/metabolism
Nanoparticles/chemistry

@article {pmid41734323,
year = {2026},
author = {Löwy, I},
title = {[Long Covid: a long story].},
journal = {Medecine sciences : M/S},
volume = {42},
number = {2},
pages = {187-193},
doi = {10.1051/medsci/2026017},
pmid = {41734323},
issn = {1958-5381},
mesh = {Humans ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *COVID-19/psychology/complications ; *Psychophysiologic Disorders/psychology/diagnosis/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Patients with long Covid experience multiple, often very debilitating symptoms, yet their test results frequently appear normal. In the absence of objective indicators of a recognized disease, some professionals may conclude that the patient is suffering from a psychosomatic disorder. These patients face an epistemic injustice, that is, a failure to recognize their suffering as real. This injustice is rooted in a longstanding history of medically invisible disorders, which are diagnosed mainly on the basis of the patient's own narrative. The difficulties experienced by patients with long Covid cannot be dissociated from this history.},
}

Humans
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*COVID-19/psychology/complications
*Psychophysiologic Disorders/psychology/diagnosis/etiology
SARS-CoV-2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41736351,
year = {2026},
author = {V Rey-Matias, BM and S Ignacio, ML and D Leochico, CF and Rathore, FA},
title = {Telerehabilitation for the Evaluation and Management of a Dizzy Patient: A Mini-Review.},
journal = {JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association},
volume = {76},
number = {1},
pages = {118-120},
doi = {10.47391/JPMA.26-08},
pmid = {41736351},
issn = {0030-9982},
mesh = {Humans ; *Telerehabilitation ; *Dizziness/rehabilitation ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Quality of Life ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Vertigo/rehabilitation ; },
abstract = {Dizziness and vertigo are common, disabling symptoms, especially in older adults. They can negatively affect quality of life and independence of the person. Vestibular rehabilitation is a key treatment, but access is often limited by physical, geographic, and socioeconomic factors. Telerehabilitation has emerged as a viable alternative, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This mini review synthesizes available evidence on vestibular telerehabilitation, focussing on feasibility, delivery methods, outcomes, and future directions. We have included commonly used outcomes measures like balance, gait, gaze stability, dizziness, psychological health, and quality of life. Findings suggest telerehabilitation is an effective alternative to in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to standardize protocols, evaluate cognitive outcomes, and ensure inclusivity across diverse populations. Digital innovations are a promising options for more accessible, patient-centered vestibular care.},
}

Humans
*Telerehabilitation
*Dizziness/rehabilitation
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Quality of Life
SARS-CoV-2
*Vertigo/rehabilitation

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41744170,
year = {2026},
author = {Domnich, A and Pariani, E},
title = {Beyond the laboratory: how COVID-19 reshaped specimen collection, testing workflows, and diagnostic algorithms.},
journal = {Expert review of molecular diagnostics},
volume = {26},
number = {2},
pages = {127-139},
doi = {10.1080/14737159.2026.2638743},
pmid = {41744170},
issn = {1744-8352},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/epidemiology ; *Specimen Handling/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; Algorithms ; Workflow ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 Testing/methods ; Rapid Diagnostic Tests ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic forced a radical expansion of essential public health laboratory services that went beyond basic testing. This perspective highlights key shifts in laboratory function, specifically toward decentralized testing, self-sampling, less invasive specimen types, point-of-care devices, and novel surveillance strategies.

AREAS COVERED: The surge in testing demand favored decentralized solutions, including rapid lateral flow tests, due to their flexibility, speed, and affordability. However, several challenges arose from the variable diagnostic accuracy of rapid self-tests and alternative specimen types when compared to reference laboratory-based molecular assays using nasopharyngeal swabs. For instance, the use of self-collected saliva, which is often preferred by patients, was hindered by a lack of internationally standardized processing protocols. A post-pandemic rebound in the circulation of respiratory pathogens other than SARS-CoV-2 was likely driven by both immunity debt and increased testing, including of less severe cases, commonly performed through more costly multiplex respiratory panels.

EXPERT OPINION: Moving forward, while over-the-counter self-tests for common respiratory viruses are now common, stricter regulatory oversight and improved data connectivity are essential. Local decision-makers must weigh the trade-offs between broad testing access and clinical performance, and implement robust diagnostic stewardship programs for acute respiratory infections.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/virology/epidemiology
*Specimen Handling/methods
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
Algorithms
Workflow
Pandemics
*COVID-19 Testing/methods
Rapid Diagnostic Tests

@article {pmid41752261,
year = {2026},
author = {Van Assche, J},
title = {The Social-Psychological Consequences of COVID-19: An Integrative Review and Research Agenda.},
journal = {International journal of environmental research and public health},
volume = {23},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41752261},
issn = {1660-4601},
mesh = {*COVID-19/psychology ; Humans ; *Mental Health ; Resilience, Psychological ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed profound social-psychological vulnerabilities and strengths across societies worldwide. Beyond its immediate health implications, the pandemic has triggered a wave of mental health issues, disrupted social cohesion, and challenged community resilience. This paper synthesizes the current literature, critically discusses five recent studies as part of the Special Issue "Mental Health Consequences of COVID-19: The Role of Social Determinants", and articulates an agenda for future research within a social-psychological framework. Moving beyond mere negative effects such as anxiety, this review highlights the role of resilience, prosocial behavior, (digital) mental health interventions, and community social capital. Correspondingly, I advocate for interdisciplinary efforts to enhance awareness, preparedness, and adaptive capacity during health crises, emphasizing the need for a clearer focus on vulnerable social groups. In sum, recognizing the evolving global landscape, this work underscores the urgency of integrating psychological insights into public health policies to build resilient societies capable of confronting future pandemics and health emergencies.},
}

*COVID-19/psychology
Humans
*Mental Health
Resilience, Psychological
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid41754496,
year = {2026},
author = {Federico, M},
title = {Potential Impact of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein on HIV-1 Reservoir in People Living with HIV.},
journal = {Viruses},
volume = {18},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {41754496},
issn = {1999-4915},
support = {RIP-1//Ministry of Health, Italy/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics ; *HIV-1/physiology ; *HIV Infections/virology/immunology ; Virus Latency ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/immunology ; Virus Activation ; },
abstract = {People living with HIV-1 (PLWH) are part of the so-called "fragile" populations to which COVID-19 vaccines were/are strongly recommended. The fact that most widely used COVID-19 vaccines rely on the production of a biologically active SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein expressed by synthetic mRNA poses the relevant question of whether and how this vaccination influences the fate of the HIV-1 reservoir. This report presents a detailed analysis of the literature data on the effects of SARS-CoV-2 Spike and COVID-19 vaccines on HIV-1 latently infected cells. Despite being limited in number, the experimental evidences consistently indicate that vaccine mRNA and/or SARS-CoV-2 Spike can effectively reactivate latent HIV-1. This conclusion has been drawn after "in vitro", "ex vivo", and "in vivo" assays, and with virus-associated Spike, soluble Spike, or its intracellular expression, as well as with COVID-19 mRNA vaccines. On the other hand, real-world observations on vaccinated PLWH under antiretroviral therapy (ART) provided evidence of HIV-1 reactivation almost exclusively in PLWH with unsuppressed viremia, as measured in terms of size of the HIV-1 reservoir. Although several issues still need to be clarified through urgent additional investigations, these data suggest the possibility that the Spike protein and/or the vaccine mRNA molecules affect the HIV-1 latency in PLWH.},
}

Humans
*Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology/genetics
*HIV-1/physiology
*HIV Infections/virology/immunology
Virus Latency
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology/physiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/virology/immunology
Virus Activation

@article {pmid41758633,
year = {2026},
author = {Marefat, M and Tran, D and Watson, RM and Abdulghani, H and Fortino, M},
title = {A practical model for integrated temporomandibular disorder assessment in the routine oral examination.},
journal = {General dentistry},
volume = {74},
number = {2},
pages = {57-61},
pmid = {41758633},
issn = {0363-6771},
mesh = {Humans ; *Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/diagnosis ; Facial Pain/diagnosis/etiology ; Physical Examination ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 era has seen an increase in orofacial pain related to temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The increased relevance and awareness of these conditions, including the enactment of accreditation standards dictating the inclusion of TMD education in dental school curricula, highlights the need for a simplified TMD screening and evaluation model. A literature review was conducted to establish whether a widely accepted, comprehensive, and clinically practical approach to screening and evaluation for TMDs during routine oral examination was available. Previous studies and available medical and dental history forms were reviewed. While medical and dental history forms currently available to practitioners contain TMD-related questions, they are presented in a nonsequential, sporadic manner that may not lead to intuitive diagnosis from the dental practitioner. This article introduces a proposed model and questionnaire for incorporating TMD examinations into routine examinations. The inclusion of a more practical TMD screening and evaluation model in routine examination is intended to facilitate the dentist's identification and assessment of TMD signs and symptoms, leading to a more targeted approach in diagnosis and referral. This proposed model has not yet been validated clinically; the next steps include further development, implementation within a clinical setting, and evaluation of its effectiveness.},
}

Humans
*Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/diagnosis
Facial Pain/diagnosis/etiology
Physical Examination

@article {pmid41758637,
year = {2026},
author = {Kozdrowicki, M and Szczepaniak, P and Kyslyi, V and Carnevale, L and Carnevale, D and Lembo, G and Guzik, TJ and Mikołajczyk, TP},
title = {The impact of inflammation, neuromodulation, and gut microbiota on developing cardiac fibrosis and hypertension.},
journal = {Cardiovascular research},
volume = {122},
number = {6},
pages = {681-706},
pmid = {41758637},
issn = {1755-3245},
support = {ERA-CVD/NEMO/7/2019//Polish National Centre for Research and Development/ ; ERA-CVD/Gut-brain/8/2021//Polish National Centre for Research and Development/ ; ERA-CVD/JTC2020/25/ImmuneHyper/Cog/2022//Polish National Centre for Research and Development/ ; //Ministry of Health/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Hypertension/physiopathology/metabolism/immunology/microbiology/therapy ; Animals ; Fibrosis ; *Myocardium/pathology/metabolism/immunology ; *Gastrointestinal Microbiome ; *Inflammation Mediators/metabolism ; Signal Transduction ; *Blood Pressure ; *Inflammation/physiopathology/metabolism ; *Heart Failure/physiopathology/pathology/metabolism ; Epigenesis, Genetic ; },
abstract = {Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of premature mortality worldwide. Due to pressure overload and cardiac fibrosis, CVD often begin with hypertension and gradually progress to heart failure. Cardiac fibrosis reduces the number of functional cardiomyocytes and the force of contraction while increasing oxygen demand. It has been noted that myofibroblasts, which produce excessive amounts of extracellular matrix in the failing heart, express specific proteins such as periostin, tenascin C, thrombospondin, and osteopontin. Their activation involves immune cells that have a well-documented effect on the pathogenesis of hypertension. Moreover, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and sympathetic hyperactivity heightens peripheral inflammation and fosters fibrosis. In this review, we outline and summarize the most significant and recent findings concerning the molecular pathways of immune activation, neuromodulation, epigenetic modifications, and the impact of gut microbiota on myofibroblast activation and fibrosis in the heart, as well as potential therapeutic options (e.g. experimental anti-inflammatory treatments, epigenetic modulators, and vagus nerve stimulation). We will also highlight how current heart failure treatments, including renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAA) inhibitors, β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) antagonists, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and the Mediterranean diet, affect these processes at a molecular level. A comprehensive understanding of the neuroimmune mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of heart failure and hypertension is particularly crucial in light of the increased risk of CVD following the COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted from the 'cytokine storm' during SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
}

Humans
*Hypertension/physiopathology/metabolism/immunology/microbiology/therapy
Animals
Fibrosis
*Myocardium/pathology/metabolism/immunology
*Gastrointestinal Microbiome
*Inflammation Mediators/metabolism
Signal Transduction
*Blood Pressure
*Inflammation/physiopathology/metabolism
*Heart Failure/physiopathology/pathology/metabolism
Epigenesis, Genetic

@article {pmid41759027,
year = {2026},
author = {Hussein, R and Shafiai, N and Fakrurrozi, A and Sabbagh, J},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on dental practice and care: Adapting to unprecedented times.},
journal = {Wiadomosci lekarskie (Warsaw, Poland : 1960)},
volume = {79},
number = {1},
pages = {223-231},
doi = {10.36740/WLek/216768},
pmid = {41759027},
issn = {0043-5147},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; Pandemics ; *Dental Care ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Dentist-Patient Relations ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; Telemedicine ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Aim: This review aims to shed light on the ways dental practices and patient care strategies have evolved in response to the pandemic. It also investigates how patients' perspectives and dentist-patient dynamics have shifted, highlighting lessons for the future of dental healthcare systems.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Materials and methods: The study is based on a comprehensive analysis of previously published research articles and clinical reports on how dental practitioners adapted their practices during the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes qualitative and quantitative data reflecting both professional and patient experiences. The pandemic led to the rapid adoption of new technologies, heightened hygiene protocols, and increased mental health burdens on both patients and practitioners. Tele-dentistry, limited in-person visits, and stricter sterilization practices became the norm. Patients expressed both fear and appreciation for enhanced safety, altering their expectations of dental care, resilience and adaptability in dental settings.

CONCLUSION: Conclusions The lessons learned from COVID-19 experience underline the importance of incorporating dentistry into broader public health strategies. Moving forward, there is a need to invest in innovative technologies, uphold rigorous hygiene standards, and provide mental workers and patients. These steps are essential to prepare for future health emergencies and ensure the sustainability of dental care delivery.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
Pandemics
*Dental Care
SARS-CoV-2
Dentist-Patient Relations
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
Telemedicine

@article {pmid41766236,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, S and Li, H and Jiang, Z and Liang, J and Zhou, A},
title = {Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Restoroing the immune balance of mild-to-moderate Patients with new coronavirus.},
journal = {Indian journal of pharmacology},
volume = {58},
number = {2},
pages = {114-125},
pmid = {41766236},
issn = {1998-3751},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/immunology ; *Medicine, Chinese Traditional ; *Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) which brings the epidemic situation to the public has spread rapidly and produce multiple variations. At present, Western medicine still lacks the specific medicine or vaccines for coronavirus. However, amount of evidence shows that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has advantages in releasing the symptoms of mild-to-moderate COVID patients. Those treatments are not only improving the course of the primary disease but also curb progress to severe pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome. Therefore, taking TCM intervention or combined treatments appropriately to prevent worsening illness is of vital significance. This study mainly focuses on the data analysis on the effects of TCM in restoring the immune balance of COVID patients. By collecting clinical data from mild to moderate patients, we expected to figure out if TCM only plays the role of curbing inflammation or having a two-way influence in balancing the immune microenvironment.

METHODS: Seven digital databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), Wanfang Database, and China Biology Medicine were searched from December 2019 to August 2022 nothingness of language restrictions. The studies retrieved from the database were selected and the data extracted to assess the methodological quality of the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Statistical analysis was completed. Pulmonary computed tomography, clinical cure rate, rate of conversion to severe cases, length of hospital stay, and scores of TCM syndrome were defined as the primary outcomes, the secondary outcomes were white blood cell count, lymphocyte (LYM) count, and C-reactive protein (CRP). This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022341482).

RESULTS: Nine eligible RCTs including 1159 participants were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with Western medicine treatment alone, our meta-analyses found that traditional Chinese combined Western medicine treatment has a higher clinical cure rate, better absorption of lung inflammation, and significantly shorter hospital stay. In terms of inflammatory factors, TCM can significantly reduce the CRP content compared with Western medicine methods, but the leukocyte and LYM content was not significantly different between the two treatments. In some research, TCM even has a trend accelerating the inflammation process on some specific stages of the disease.

CONCLUSION: Chinese herbal medicine combined with conventional therapy is significantly effective and invulnerable in the treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19. In terms of control inflammation, TCM does not only block the disease onset by simply inhibiting inflammation but balancing the human environment through bidirectional regulation of inflammatory cells. However, considering of the lack of research into how TCM could activate the natural immune response, the discussion of the mechanism cannot be stretched, more high-quality RCTs are still needed in the future.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/immunology
*Medicine, Chinese Traditional
*Drugs, Chinese Herbal/therapeutic use
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology/drug therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/drug therapy
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Pandemics

@article {pmid41766239,
year = {2026},
author = {Meena, J and Agarwal, A and Sandhu, A and Pradhan, P and Singh, M},
title = {Efficacy and safety of remdesivir for patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.},
journal = {Indian journal of pharmacology},
volume = {58},
number = {2},
pages = {137-141},
pmid = {41766239},
issn = {1998-3751},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Treatment Outcome ; Pandemics ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy ; *Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {In view of the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there is a need to identify a specific antiviral therapy. We performed this systematic review to assess the efficacy of remdesivir in the treatment of COVID-19. We searched three electronic databases for clinical trials investigating remdesivir for COVID-19 and included this systematic review. Five trials evaluating 13,558 participants were eligible for this study. Remdesivir, as compared to standard care, increases the rate of clinical improvement at 2 weeks (risk ratio: 1.10; 95% confidence interval: 1.04-1.18). Time to clinical recovery was shorter in the remdesivir group than the standard care group. The mortality rate was lower at 2 weeks in the remdesivir group, but no difference was observed at 4 weeks postrandomization. Extending the duration of remdesivir from 5 days to 10 days did not improve efficacy but increased the risk of adverse events. Findings from this systematic review suggested that remdesivir may slightly improve recovery time and rate of clinical improvement.},
}

Humans
*Adenosine Monophosphate/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Alanine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Treatment Outcome
Pandemics
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy
*Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid41766448,
year = {2026},
author = {Taxiarchis, A and Pruner, I},
title = {Messengers of coagulopathy: complement-carrying extracellular vesicles in SARS-CoV-2 infection.},
journal = {Current opinion in hematology},
volume = {33},
number = {3},
pages = {105-112},
doi = {10.1097/MOH.0000000000000916},
pmid = {41766448},
issn = {1531-7048},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/blood/complications/immunology ; *Extracellular Vesicles/metabolism/immunology/pathology ; *Complement Activation ; *SARS-CoV-2 ; *Complement System Proteins/metabolism ; *Blood Coagulation Disorders/etiology/blood ; Complement Membrane Attack Complex/metabolism ; Blood Platelets/metabolism ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE OF REVIEW: SARS-CoV-2 disease (COVID-19) is increasingly recognized as a thromboinflammatory vascular disorder characterized by dysregulated complement activation, endothelial injury, and sustained hypercoagulability. This review examines emerging evidence that extracellular vesicles act as key intermediaries linking complement activation to coagulation in acute and postacute COVID-19 infection.

RECENT FINDINGS: Recent studies demonstrate that extracellular vesicles released from platelets, endothelial cells, and neutrophils are markedly increased in COVID-19 and exhibit a combined procoagulant and complement-active phenotype. Sub-lytic complement attack, particularly membrane attack complex (MAC) deposition, triggers phosphatidylserine exposure and extracellular vesicle shedding, generating vesicles that support thrombin generation and propagate complement activity in the circulation. Extracellular vesicle-associated complement components, including C1q, C3 fragments, MASP2, and preassembled MACs, promote tissue factor decryption, platelet activation, and assembly of the prothrombinase complex, establishing a self-amplifying thromboinflammatory loop. Proteomic profiling further reveals compartment-specific extracellular vesicle signatures, with systemic extracellular vesicles enriched in complement and coagulation pathways. Importantly, complement-bearing and tissue factor-bearing extracellular vesicles persist beyond acute infection and are increasingly implicated in postacute sequelae of COVID-19.

SUMMARY: Extracellular vesicles serve as mobile platforms integrating complement activation with coagulation, providing a mechanistic framework for acute and chronic immunothrombosis in COVID-19. Targeting extracellular vesicle-mediated complement-coagulation crosstalk may offer novel diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/blood/complications/immunology
*Extracellular Vesicles/metabolism/immunology/pathology
*Complement Activation
*SARS-CoV-2
*Complement System Proteins/metabolism
*Blood Coagulation Disorders/etiology/blood
Complement Membrane Attack Complex/metabolism
Blood Platelets/metabolism

@article {pmid41776570,
year = {2026},
author = {Sakai, K and Yoshida, T and Chiba, T and Yamaga, M and Takemoto, M},
title = {Pitfalls in the management of undiagnosed secondary adrenal insufficiency: a case report and review of the literature.},
journal = {Journal of medical case reports},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41776570},
issn = {1752-1947},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Adrenal Insufficiency/diagnosis/drug therapy/complications ; *Hydrocortisone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Hyponatremia/etiology ; Fluid Therapy/methods ; Treatment Outcome ; Refeeding Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Prolonged cortisol deficiency in undiagnosed central adrenal insufficiency can lead to severe hypotonic hyponatremia due to inappropriate vasopressin secretion and malnutrition caused by inhibition of orexigenic signals. Notably, although hydrocortisone-induced recovery can trigger osmotic demyelination and refeeding syndromes, no previous report has simultaneously described these complications and documented significant decreases in vasopressin levels, along with changes in urine osmolality and volume before and after hydrocortisone administration.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 48-year-old Japanese man presented with fever, severe nausea, and oliguria and was brought to our hospital by ambulance due to impaired consciousness. Physical examination and laboratory analysis showed severe euvolemic hypotonic hyponatremia and low-normal glucose value. Low adrenocorticotrophic hormone and cortisol levels, undetectable 24-hour urinary free cortisol, and minimal response to corticotropin-releasing hormone indicated secondary adrenal insufficiency. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed slight pituitary swelling, suggesting hypophysitis. Treatment started with a 200 mg hydrocortisone infusion over 24 hours, and 6 hours later, the patient experienced a marked decrease in vasopressin levels, accompanied by significant dilute urine excretion and an excessively rapid increase in blood sodium levels, which posed a risk of osmotic demyelination. Rehydration with 5% dextrose and desmopressin was used to prevent this risk. Carefully adjusting plasma osmolality successfully prevented osmotic demyelination syndrome. Hydrocortisone replacement significantly increased the patient's appetite, leading to refeeding hypophosphatemia and disorientation; however, these resolved with intravenous sodium phosphate replacement. The patient developed a fever on day 12 and was confirmed to have coronavirus disease 2019. The fever subsided by day 16 with molnupiravir treatment and hydrocortisone dose adjustment, and he was discharged on day 23 with a maintenance dose of hydrocortisone.

CONCLUSION: Careful management is required while administering hydrocortisone in patients with undiagnosed adrenal insufficiency, as it may cause osmotic demyelination syndrome or refeeding syndrome due to sudden changes in blood electrolytes.},
}

Humans
Male
Middle Aged
*Adrenal Insufficiency/diagnosis/drug therapy/complications
*Hydrocortisone/administration & dosage/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Hyponatremia/etiology
Fluid Therapy/methods
Treatment Outcome
Refeeding Syndrome

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

Humans
*COVID-19
Pandemics
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Digital Health
*Hospitals

@article {pmid41782085,
year = {2026},
author = {Heugno, VJN and Kamdem, OL and Same, EGE and Lele, ECB and Biloa, YM and Ayina, CA and Guyot, J and Bongue, B and Mandengue, SH and Moukoko, CEE},
title = {Factors associated with long COVID in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41782085},
issn = {1471-2334},
support = {ANRS283//ANRS - Agence Nationale de la Recherche / Emerging Infectious Diseases/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology ; Risk Factors ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Comorbidity ; Sub-Saharan African People ; Female ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID is a condition characterized by persistent symptoms of COVID-19 that continue to occur in patients after apparent recovery. Given that, these symptoms may vary from person to person due to clinical, demographic, and genetic factors as well as comorbidities, our review aims to identify and analyze risk factors associated with persistent symptoms of COVID-19 (long COVID) in the specific context of sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS: Article searches were conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, African Journals Online (AJOL), Science Direct and Google Scholar databases using the keywords "long COVID" or "long-term COVID-19" or "post-COVID condition" or "post-acute sequelae of COVID-19" and "sub-Saharan Africa" or "sub-Saharan Africans". The obtained data were entered into software for duplication checking. Two reviewers selected and extracted the data. Due to substantial heterogeneity in definitions and study designs, a narrative synthesis approach was adopted. Fifteen studies were included in this review, totaling 8,233 participants previously infected with SARS-CoV-2, with approximately 2,011 patients with long COVID from six countries. Six studies were cross-sectional, three were retrospective, three were cohort studies, two were case-control, and one was a case report.

RESULTS: The review found that the prevalence of long COVID in sub-Saharan Africa ranged from 2% in Ghana to 66.7% in South Africa. The persistent COVID-19 symptoms most commonly experienced by people living in sub-Saharan Africa were fatigue (reported in 12 studies, 25-66% of patients), cough (7 studies, 9-86%), chest pain (9 studies, 9%-29%), dyspnea (10 studies, 15-45%), palpitations (4 studies, 10-30%), headache (9 studies, 12-38%), and cognitive impairment (6 studies, 8-20%). The main risk factors for the occurrence of persistent COVID-19 symptoms were older age (˃ 60 years), female sex, low education level, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, length of hospitalization during the acute episode, number of initial COVID-19 symptoms, and initial disease severity.

CONCLUSION: Long COVID is a reality in sub-Saharan Africa. Fatigue and hypertension have proven to be the most common symptom and risk factor, respectively. The heterogeneity of long COVID definitions across studies limits direct prevalence comparisons. Given the socio-economic challenges, pre-existing comorbidities and differences in health systems in the sub-Saharan region, it is therefore necessary to develop new strategies for care, rehabilitation and treatment (specific to the realities of the sub-Saharan region) targeted at each persistent symptom of COVID-19 in order to resolve this emerging problem and allow patients to have a good quality of life.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
Africa South of the Sahara/epidemiology
Risk Factors
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
Comorbidity
Sub-Saharan African People
Female

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

Humans
*Public Health Practice/ethics
*Education, Medical, Graduate
COVID-19
*Communicable Diseases
Curriculum
SARS-CoV-2
*Public Health/ethics/education
*Education, Graduate
Digital Health

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

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

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

@article {pmid41812517,
year = {2026},
author = {Saad, S and DeCesare, J and Meadows, R and Golden, M and Hannah, D},
title = {Effect of COVID-19 infection on maternal and fetal outcomes of Pregnancy: A systematic review.},
journal = {Pregnancy hypertension},
volume = {44},
number = {},
pages = {101432},
doi = {10.1016/j.preghy.2026.101432},
pmid = {41812517},
issn = {2210-7797},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology/virology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; *Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology ; Infant, Newborn ; Fetal Growth Retardation/epidemiology ; Premature Birth/epidemiology ; Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Risk Factors ; Maternal Mortality ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate the rates and statistical significance of maternal and neonatal complications in subjects with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis in pregnancy in comparison to subjects without a diagnosis of COVID-19 in pregnancy. We aim to improve the literature and patient information regarding the impact of COVID-19 on maternal and fetal outcomes to help draw conclusions or guide management.

STUDY DESIGN: Clinical outcomes were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) billing codes. The control group included a sample of 15,000 patients delivered between 4/1/2019-12/31/2019. The COVID group included 10,608 patients from 4/1/2020-4/1/2022 who were confirmed COVID-19 positive within the 9 months prior to delivery. Binary logistic regression, Chi-square, and Fisher's exact test were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS: Having COVID-19 during pregnancy is significantly associated with increased risk for preterm delivery (PTD), placental abnormalities, hypertensive disorders, and neonatal intensive care (NICU) admission. Rates of maternal mortality, fetal growth restriction (FGR) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) were not significantly impacted by COVID-19. While the overall rate of FGR was not impacted, patients with 2nd trimester infection are at increased risk for FGR compared to patients with 3rd trimester infection.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates a statistically significant increased rate of preterm delivery, hypertensive disorders, placental abnormalities, and NICU admission for pregnancies affected by COVID-19. These findings can help guide recommendations for increased surveillance and counseling in pregnancies affected by COVID-19.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/epidemiology/virology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
*Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology
Infant, Newborn
Fetal Growth Retardation/epidemiology
Premature Birth/epidemiology
Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Risk Factors
Maternal Mortality

@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 {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 {pmid41915598,
year = {2026},
author = {Pacheco, FS and da Rocha Mota, RG and Pinho Jannini de Sá, YA and Hogaboam, CM and Castro-Faria-Neto, HC and Carvalho, VF},
title = {Glucocorticoids and Neutrophil Biology: Impact on the Development of Resistance to Glucocorticoid Therapy.},
journal = {Neuroimmunomodulation},
volume = {33},
number = {1},
pages = {213-224},
doi = {10.1159/000551742},
pmid = {41915598},
issn = {1423-0216},
mesh = {Humans ; *Glucocorticoids/pharmacology/therapeutic use ; *Neutrophils/drug effects/immunology ; Animals ; *Drug Resistance/immunology/physiology ; Th17 Cells/immunology/drug effects ; Inflammation/immunology/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Neutrophils are the most abundant leukocytes in peripheral circulation and play a crucial role in combating infections and mediating inflammatory responses. Neutrophils are produced in bone marrow, have a short half-life in the blood, and are rapidly attracted to the tissues in response to infection or tissue damage.

SUMMARY: Glucocorticoids (GCs), stress hormones, and potent anti-inflammatory agents exert complex effects on neutrophils. While they generally suppress immune responses, GCs can paradoxically enhance neutrophil survival and function under certain conditions. This duality is evident in their ability to delay neutrophil apoptosis and to induce a shift of neutrophils from the marginated to the circulating pool, increasing the neutrophil presence in the bloodstream. Th17 cells, a subset of T-helper cells, recruit neutrophils to sites of infection and inflammation. In addition, neutrophils promote Th17 cell differentiation. GCs can enhance Th17 differentiation and IL-17 production, exacerbating neutrophil accumulation. Nevertheless, in glucocorticoid-resistant diseases, including multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and encephalomyelitis, Th17 cells and neutrophils contribute to persistent inflammation. This resistance complicates the treatment of autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammatory disorders, also in the central nervous system, where standard glucocorticoid therapy fails to mitigate symptoms effectively.

KEY MESSAGES: In this context, we propose a mechanism for the development of resistance to GC driving by uncontrolled TH17 response and neutrophils induced by chronic stress. Understanding the interactions between neutrophils, Th17 cells, and GCs is essential for developing targeted therapies for diseases resistant to GC, such as MS, TBI, and encephalomyelitis.},
}

Humans
*Glucocorticoids/pharmacology/therapeutic use
*Neutrophils/drug effects/immunology
Animals
*Drug Resistance/immunology/physiology
Th17 Cells/immunology/drug effects
Inflammation/immunology/drug therapy

@article {pmid42014245,
year = {2026},
author = {Ferdous, J},
title = {The weight of a hug: Abdominal obesity as a barrier to health and human connection.},
journal = {Obesity research & clinical practice},
volume = {20},
number = {3},
pages = {165-167},
doi = {10.1016/j.orcp.2026.04.003},
pmid = {42014245},
issn = {1871-403X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Obesity, Abdominal/psychology/epidemiology/complications ; COVID-19 ; *Interpersonal Relations ; Exercise ; Sedentary Behavior ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {A hug is a simple act of human connection, yet for many individuals with abdominal obesity, it can be physically challenging and emotionally uncomfortable. This paper examines how abdominal obesity affects both health and social interactions, using hugging as an illustrative example. In collectivist cultures such as Bangladesh, physical touch reinforces trust and family bonds. Obesity-related limitations can reduce closeness; promote avoidance and lower self-confidence, often compounded by social stigma. Abdominal obesity is also associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and premature mortality. Its prevalence is driven by sedentary lifestyles, processed food consumption, and environmental factors, further exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing abdominal obesity requires holistic strategies, including improved nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and community support, to restore comfort, rebuild confidence, and strengthen personal relationships and community cohesion.},
}

Humans
*Obesity, Abdominal/psychology/epidemiology/complications
COVID-19
*Interpersonal Relations
Exercise
Sedentary Behavior
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42021395,
year = {2026},
author = {Chen, Y and Zheng, J and Wang, H and Wu, Z},
title = {Advance in the Kawasaki disease related coronary artery aneurysms: knowledge mapping, trends, and research frontiers.},
journal = {Journal of cardiothoracic surgery},
volume = {21},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42021395},
issn = {1749-8090},
mesh = {*Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome/complications ; Humans ; *Coronary Aneurysm/etiology ; Bibliometrics ; *Biomedical Research/trends ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Kawasaki disease (KD) is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children. In untreated cases, coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs) may develop in up to 25% of patients. As the most significant long-term sequelae of KD, Kawasaki disease-related coronary artery aneurysms (KD-CAAs) contribute substantially to long-term cardiac morbidity and mortality. To date, few bibliometric study has specifically focused on this area.

METHODS: We conducted a search in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) for papers related to KD-CAAs published between 2005 and 2024, and performed visual analysis using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and the "biblioshiny" web interface from the "bibliometrix" package in R. A total of 1018 publications were retrieved, which collectively received 25,068 citations, averaging 24.62 citations per paper.

RESULTS: A steady increase was shown in the cumulative number of publications. The highest productivity was observed in the United States of America (USA), followed by Japan, China, and Canada. The University of California system was identified as the most productive institution, and Pediatric Cardiology was recognized as the journal with the most publications. Burns Jane C, Tremoulet Adriana H, and McCrindle Brian W were found to be the most prolific authors, while Newburger Jane W was identified as the most co-cited author. It was revealed by keyword cluster analysis that KD-CAAs research was organized into ten distinct clusters, and three major research hotspots were highlighted: molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic resistance pathways, long-term vascular sequelae and management, and the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A shift in research focus from fundamental disease mechanisms toward long-term patient follow-up and multidisciplinary clinical collaboration was indicated by keyword burst detection, and this shift was reflected in terms such as "long-term management" and "health professionals".

CONCLUSIONS: Research on KD-CAAs requires further breakthroughs in molecular mechanisms and enhanced interdisciplinary integration. The resulting visualizations offer an efficient framework for identifying emerging trends and critical advances in KD-CAAs research.},
}

*Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome/complications
Humans
*Coronary Aneurysm/etiology
Bibliometrics
*Biomedical Research/trends

@article {pmid42178216,
year = {2026},
author = {Chadha, U and Kushnirenko, A and Fernandes, DC and Patel, KB and Crothers, NJ and Singh, H and Isiksalan, M and Nasir, I and Armstrong, S and Behdinan, K},
title = {Augmenting healthcare systems for pandemic preparedness: a Lean Six Sigma perspective.},
journal = {International journal for quality in health care : journal of the International Society for Quality in Health Care},
volume = {38},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {42178216},
issn = {1464-3677},
mesh = {Humans ; Pandemic Preparedness/organization & administration ; *COVID-19 ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Total Quality Management/organization & administration ; Efficiency, Organizational ; Public Health Infrastructure ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; Hospital Administration ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Past global healthcare crises have exposed vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, including inefficiencies in hospital operations, delayed response times, and overburdened infrastructure. Traditional hospital systems built for routine care were sometimes not resilient or adaptable in the face of such crises, resulting in global failures. This narrative review examines how Lean Six Sigma (LSS) principles can be incorporated into conventional hospital operations to enhance pandemic preparedness by building the resilience of hospital infrastructure, streamlining processes during time-sensitive situations, and improving waste reduction, all while being adaptable and sustainable.

METHODS: This narrative review synthesizes literature using Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a benchmark to evaluate hospital response strategies, failures, and factors contributing to failure, including the critical assessment of ethical disruptions, operational weaknesses, and healthcare business models. LSS principle applications, i.e. DMAIC, Value Stream Mapping, SIPOC, FMEA, and Control Charts, were explored for facilitating efficient care, crisis response, and policy integration. Various case studies were used to support the comparative analysis and insights.

RESULTS: The literature indicates that adoption of LSS tools in the most vulnerable aspects of healthcare, including patient triage, supply chain optimization, and controlling and reducing mortality, has been associated with measurable improvements. Most importantly, integrating data-driven LSS resulted in enhanced surge responsiveness and ethical compliance within national healthcare frameworks and policies. However, despite its efficacy, there are institutional barriers like capital constraints, resistance to change, data inconsistencies, and a lack of legislative frameworks that impede widespread LSS adoption.

CONCLUSION: LSS offers an adaptable and scalable methodology to re-engineer conventional hospital operations and pandemic preparedness. The emphasis on 'kaizen' (continuous improvement), data-informed decision making, and focus on precision aligns with the needs of healthcare systems as revealed by recent crises. To unlock the potential for preparedness, healthcare systems and legislation must focus on institutionalizing LSS across public and private sectors through strategic investment, education, and cross-sector collaborations. This review provides a comprehensive framework for policymakers, governments, epidemiologists, doctors, and hospital business managers for building resilient, efficient, and pandemic-ready hospitals.},
}

Humans
Pandemic Preparedness/organization & administration
*COVID-19
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Total Quality Management/organization & administration
Efficiency, Organizational
Public Health Infrastructure
SARS-CoV-2
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
Hospital Administration
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid42261850,
year = {2026},
author = {Choi, K and Choi, S and Joe, D and Seo, YS and Ham, J and Chung, H and Ramadan, Y and Park, YS},
title = {Myocarditis After mRNA Vaccination: A Metabolic-Innate Immune Cascade Centered on Lipid Nanoparticles.},
journal = {Mediators of inflammation},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {e8991922},
pmid = {42261850},
issn = {1466-1861},
support = {RS-2024-00346434//Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning/ ; 2020R1I1A1A01067800//Ministry of Education/ ; },
mesh = {*Myocarditis/immunology/metabolism/etiology ; Humans ; Animals ; *Nanoparticles/chemistry ; *Immunity, Innate/physiology ; *Lipids/chemistry ; Inflammasomes/metabolism ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; *mRNA Vaccines/adverse effects ; 2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273 ; *RNA, Messenger ; NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism ; Liposomes ; },
abstract = {mRNA vaccine-associated myocarditis is a rare but clinically important adverse event whose pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Initial hypotheses focused primarily on the spike protein antigen, with growing preclinical evidence implicating the lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery system as an additional and potentially important contributor to myocardial inflammation. Here, we propose a multi-hit model that integrates LNP-driven mechanisms as a central pathogenic axis, initiated by the systemic distribution and accumulation of LNPs in the heart. While the mRNA payload is cleared within days, the synthetic ionizable lipids -ALC-0315 (BNT162b2) and SM-102 (mRNA-1273) persist significantly longer than the mRNA payload itself. These two lipids differ in biodegradability and pharmacokinetic distinctions, together with differences in lipid dose and formulation, they may contribute to the divergent myocarditis rates observed between the two vaccine products. In this suggesting review, the first hit" involves the disruption of myocardial energy metabolism by these lipids, which can integrate into cellular membranes and impair mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. This is compounded by a second hit of direct innate immune activation, preclinical studies demonstrate that LNPs engage pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) like toll-like receptors (TLRs) and the NLRP3 inflammasome, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and IL-18. Inflammation is then amplified via Damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) released from stressed cardiomyocytes. The clinical outcome-ranging from self-limited mild myocarditis to fulminant disease with diverse histopathological patterns-is likely shaped by host susceptibility factors, including sex hormones, genetic predisposition, and prior immune priming, that modulate the intensity of this pathogenic cascade.},
}

*Myocarditis/immunology/metabolism/etiology
Humans
Animals
*Nanoparticles/chemistry
*Immunity, Innate/physiology
*Lipids/chemistry
Inflammasomes/metabolism
*Vaccination/adverse effects
*mRNA Vaccines/adverse effects
2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273
*RNA, Messenger
NLR Family, Pyrin Domain-Containing 3 Protein/metabolism
Liposomes

@article {pmid42263302,
year = {2026},
author = {Tyagi, A and Singh, K and Singh, PM and Gerges, FJ},
title = {Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Ganglion Blocks for Treatment of Long COVID-19 Symptoms: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Pain physician},
volume = {29},
number = {3},
pages = {E151-E161},
pmid = {42263302},
issn = {2150-1149},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Autonomic Nerve Block/methods ; *Ganglia, Parasympathetic/drug effects ; *Ganglia, Sympathetic/drug effects ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Long COVID-19 affects approximately 10-30% of individuals who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 and is associated with persistent functional impairment and reduced quality of life. The heterogeneous, multisystemic nature and nonspecific symptomatology of long COVID-19 makes its treatment challenging. This scoping review evaluates existing evidence on sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglion blocks as potential interventions for patients suffering from long COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE: Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglion blocks in treating patients with long COVID-19 by identifying the most commonly reported symptoms, symptom response to different block regimens, and any adverse effects associated with these interventions.

STUDY DESIGN: A scoping review.

SETTING: Outpatient clinics where patients received sympathetic blocks or parasympathetic blocks.

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane CENTRAL, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov using MeSH and free-text terms related to "long COVID-19," "post-COVID-19 syndrome," and "sympathetic ganglion blocks" and "parasympathetic blocks." Only English-language articles were included. Pre-print repositories and reference lists were also manually screened.

RESULTS: A total of 22 articles covering 505 patients were included in this review. The most frequently studied symptoms were olfactory dysfunction, fatigue, headache, and cognitive disturbances. The most commonly utilized intervention was the stellate ganglion block. The available evidence suggests that the stellate ganglion block could be an effective treatment for dysautonomia symptoms and cognitive dysfunction related to long COVID-19. Sphenopalatine ganglion block may be an effective option to treat headaches in long COVID-19 patients who are refractory to other treatments.

LIMITATIONS: The significant existing variations in treatment regimens precluded our ability to do a quantitative analysis. Reporting bias from case reports and small observational studies should also be considered.

CONCLUSIONS: Stellate ganglion blocks may offer therapeutic benefit for the dysautonomia and cognitive dysfunction associated with long COVID-19. Sphenopalatine ganglion blocks have shown promise in managing refractory headache symptoms in this population. Further well-designed, placebo-controlled randomized studies that employ validated outcome measures are required to establish the efficacy of sympathetic ganglion blocks in the treatment of long COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Autonomic Nerve Block/methods
*Ganglia, Parasympathetic/drug effects
*Ganglia, Sympathetic/drug effects
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
*Coronavirus Infections/complications

@article {pmid42276971,
year = {2026},
author = {Farquhar, H},
title = {AI-Enhanced Point-of-Care Diagnostics for Infectious Diseases in Resource-Limited Settings: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Tropical medicine & international health : TM & IH},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/tmi.70170},
pmid = {42276971},
issn = {1365-3156},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To systematically map the extent and nature of research on AI-enhanced point-of-care (POC) and rapid diagnostic technologies for infectious diseases in resource-limited settings, and to identify gaps in disease coverage, geographic representation and validation rigour.

METHODS: This scoping review followed JBI methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The protocol was registered on OSF (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/KV8MP). Five databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and IEEE Xplore) were searched for studies published from January 2015 to March 2026. Title/abstract and full-text screening used rule-based keyword screening with manual validation (Cohen's kappa = 0.856). Data were extracted using a 19-variable charting form and enriched with PubMed Central full texts.

RESULTS: From 1072 records, 551 remained after deduplication and 237 studies were included. Publication volume grew exponentially, with 44% published in 2025-2026. COVID-19 (32%), malaria (27%) and tuberculosis (14%) dominated; neglected tropical diseases accounted for fewer than 8%. Microscopy (21%), molecular diagnostics (17%), biosensors (14%) and rapid diagnostic tests (14%) were the most common modalities. Convolutional neural networks predominated (26%), followed by random forests (10%) and support vector machines (8%). Only 7% of studies reported prospective field validation, while 62% did not report validation level. Geographic analysis revealed concentration in East Africa and South Asia, with underrepresentation of West Africa and Latin America.

CONCLUSIONS: AI-enhanced POC diagnostics for infectious diseases in resource-limited settings is a rapidly growing field facing critical gaps in validation rigour, disease equity and geographic representation. Only 16 of 237 studies (6.8%) report prospective field validation. Future research should prioritise field validation, expand beyond the COVID-19/malaria/TB triad and involve end-user communities from the design stage.},
}

@article {pmid42277518,
year = {2026},
author = {Frühwein, M},
title = {[Focus on respiratory vaccinations].},
journal = {MMW Fortschritte der Medizin},
volume = {168},
number = {11},
pages = {38-41},
doi = {10.1007/s15006-026-5953-4},
pmid = {42277518},
issn = {1613-3560},
}

@article {pmid42277912,
year = {2026},
author = {Chang, L and Xu, W and Wang, X and Xue, Y and Zhang, Y and Zhu, X and Zhang, Y and Liang, T and Liu, W},
title = {CRISPR diagnostics: from trans-nuclease activity to cancer diagnosis.},
journal = {Cell & bioscience},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13578-026-01603-1},
pmid = {42277912},
issn = {2045-3701},
support = {2019YFC1316000//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 81830089//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82188102//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; LQ23H200004//Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province/ ; },
abstract = {The field of nucleic acid-based testing experienced a decade-long stagnation since the development of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in 1992 and isothermal amplification methods in the early 2000s. However, in 2016, the discovery of trans-nuclease activity in CRISPR-Cas systems revolutionized the molecular diagnostics for nucleic acids. A typical CRISPR diagnostic workflow comprises three phases: (1) target recognition through CRISPR RNA (crRNA)-guided hybridization; (2) signal transduction via trans-cleavage of engineered reporters (e.g., fluorophore-quencher oligonucleotides), and (3) signal readout using fluorescence, electrochemical, or colorimetric platforms. Emerging shortly prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, CRISPR diagnostics quickly gained prominence as a field-deployable alternative to qPCR due to its rapidity (< 1 h), minimal equipment requirements, and field adaptability. This technological paradigm underwent rigorous validation and refinement alongside the rapid evolution of SARS-CoV-2 detection, which facilitated its adaptation for cancer diagnosis. Recent advancements in sensitivity (attomolar-level detection) and specificity (single-nucleotide discrimination) have enabled transformative applications in cancer diagnostics, including: (1) identification of nucleic acid biomarkers, such as high-frequency somatic mutations, circulating nucleic acids and miRNAs; and (2) detection of non-nucleic acid biomarkers, including epigenetic aberrations, proteins, small molecules and metabolite biomarkers. This review chronicles the decadal evolution of CRISPR diagnostics, with particular emphasis on recent advancements of its application in cancer diagnosis. We critically evaluate persistent technical limitations, including PAM sequence restriction, suboptimal sensitivity and specificity, quantitative constraints, and unmet point-of-care testing (POCT) in complex biological matrices. Additionally, we discuss prospective solutions to address these challenges.},
}

@article {pmid42278622,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, YY and Evans, CE},
title = {Contemporary Endothelial Genome Editing Technologies: Towards Precision Genetic Medicine for Vascular Diseases.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {11},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27115100},
pmid = {42278622},
issn = {1422-0067},
support = {1R01HL133951-21/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 2R01HL164014-22/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 3R01HL162299-22/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 4R01HL172447-23/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; 24TPA1285575//American Heart Association/ ; 23SCEFIA1155876//American Heart Association/ ; 5P20GM103499-23/NH/NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Gene Editing/methods ; CRISPR-Cas Systems ; *Vascular Diseases/genetics/therapy ; *Endothelial Cells/metabolism ; Animals ; *Precision Medicine/methods ; *Genetic Therapy/methods ; Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism ; },
abstract = {Endothelial dysfunction is a key characteristic of many diseases, including atherosclerosis, hypertension, heart failure, stroke, cancer, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), peripheral vascular disease, coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19), and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). To improve understanding of the roles of endothelial cells (ECs) in health and disease, EC-specific genome editing technologies have been developed in recent years. Therapeutic strategies that aim to restore a healthy endothelial monolayer include the inhibition of endothelial genes that cause EC injury and dysfunction and the induction or activation of endothelial genes that drive EC repair and regeneration. In this review, we describe established recombinase-mediated genetic modification technologies and emerging EC-specific genome editing technologies including viral and non-viral delivery of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system, and we summarize the strengths and limitations of each technology. We then discuss possible avenues for future research, including the development of organ-specific EC genome editing technologies. In short, EC-specific genome editing technologies can be used to modulate gene expression selectively in ECs and even within a specific vascular bed and/or distinctive EC subtype, and, in doing so, greatly improve the understanding of vascular biology and help develop precision genetic medicine targeting the disease-causing vascular bed(s) to effectively treat diseases caused by vascular endothelial dysfunction.},
}