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

@article {pmid41723349,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, D and Li, Y and Chen, P and Zhu, K and Cao, C},
title = {Comparison of the efficacy and safety of selective COX-2 inhibitors and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of COVID-19 patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12879-026-12883-w},
pmid = {41723349},
issn = {1471-2334},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41719864,
year = {2026},
author = {Chandra, LA and Nugroho, DB and Thobari, JA and Dimaguila, GL and Buttery, J},
title = {Active surveillance methods to identify adverse events of special interest (AESIs) following vaccination against pandemic diseases: A scoping review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {77},
number = {},
pages = {128341},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128341},
pmid = {41719864},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Active post-vaccination surveillance is vital for ensuring vaccine safety, particularly in monitoring Adverse Events of Special Interest (AESIs). This scoping review synthesises evidence on methodologies employed in active surveillance studies, with a focus on influenza and COVID-19 vaccines.

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

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

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

@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},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2026.2622178},
pmid = {41719449},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; Canada/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/administration & dosage ; Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccination/legislation & jurisprudence ; Public Health ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Vaccine certificates were introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to document vaccination status, promote uptake and enable safer reopening of society. While these policies supported public health efforts, their implementation raised operational, ethical and legal concerns, sparking debate about their future use in health emergencies. We conducted a scoping review to synthesize the implementation processes, challenges and outcomes of vaccine certificate systems in Canada and other OECD countries. An academic search was conducted in August 2024, across Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus using controlled vocabulary and key words for sources published from 2020 onward. Grey literature was searched using Google and targeted government and organizational websites. Data were synthesized descriptively and analyzed deductively based on three pre-identified themes - public health, technological, and ethical-legal considerations - derived from the UK Royal Society's framework on COVID-19 vaccine certificate design. The search captured 128 sources (72 academic and 56 gray literature), covering all OECD countries except Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico and Norway. Identified subthemes included: (1) purpose and trade-offs; (2) public health, socio-economic and health system impacts, (3) technological infrastructure and data security; (4) equity and accessibility; (5) privacy and surveillance; and (6) public acceptance and trust. Vaccine certificates aimed to support public health goals but posed challenges in digital implementation, particularly in creating secure and interoperable systems and raised concerns around equity, discrimination and privacy. Vaccine certificates show promise for future public health use. However, their success will depend on addressing ethical concerns, ensuring interoperability and strengthening digital infrastructure, regulations and public trust.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41579048,
year = {2026},
author = {Chao, CM and Liu, JW and Tang, HJ and Lai, CC},
title = {The escalating threat of multidrug-resistant organisms: COVID-19 impact, global burden, and the Taiwanese experience.},
journal = {Expert review of anti-infective therapy},
volume = {24},
number = {1},
pages = {63-73},
doi = {10.1080/14787210.2026.2623135},
pmid = {41579048},
issn = {1744-8336},
mesh = {Humans ; Taiwan/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial ; Antimicrobial Stewardship ; *Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology ; Global Health ; *Cross Infection/epidemiology/drug therapy/microbiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified global health challenges, including a silent but escalating crisis: multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). As healthcare systems strained under viral outbreaks, infection control and antimicrobial stewardship efforts suffered, accelerating the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

AREAS COVERED: This review examines the indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on AMR, emphasizing changes in antibiotic utilization, healthcare-associated infections, and resistance trends. Global and regional epidemiological data are presented, with a special focus on Taiwan's evolving MDROs landscape, clinical burden, and strategic responses.

EXPERT OPINION: COVID-19 has both exposed and intensified vulnerabilities in AMR control. While the pandemic fostered certain infection control practices, it also disrupted antimicrobial oversight, leading to surges in MDROs prevalence. Taiwan's experience underscores the value of coordinated guidelines, real-time diagnostics, and artificial intelligence-driven stewardship. Rebuilding and future-proofing AMR responses requires integrated global policies, sustained surveillance, and innovation in diagnostics and therapeutics. Unless comprehensive action is taken, MDROs may emerge as the defining post-pandemic threat to modern medicine.},
}

Humans
Taiwan/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial
Antimicrobial Stewardship
*Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use/administration & dosage/pharmacology
Global Health
*Cross Infection/epidemiology/drug therapy/microbiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid36961659,
year = {2023},
author = {Ghoshal, UC and Sachdeva, S and Pratap, N and Karyampudi, A and Mustafa, U and Abraham, P and Bhatt, CB and Chakravartty, K and Chaudhuri, S and Goyal, O and Makharia, GK and Panigrahi, MK and Parida, PK and Patwari, S and Sainani, R and Sadasivan, S and Srinivas, M and Upadhyay, R and Venkataraman, J},
title = {Indian consensus statements on irritable bowel syndrome in adults: A guideline by the Indian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association and jointly supported by the Indian Society of Gastroenterology.},
journal = {Indian journal of gastroenterology : official journal of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology},
volume = {42},
number = {2},
pages = {249-273},
pmid = {36961659},
issn = {0975-0711},
mesh = {Adult ; Humans ; Communicable Disease Control ; Comorbidity ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/complications ; *Gastroenterology ; *Irritable Bowel Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology ; },
abstract = {The Indian Neurogastroenterology and Motility Association (INMA), earlier named the Indian Motility and Functional Diseases Association developed this evidence-based practice guidelines for the management of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A modified Delphi process was used to develop this consensus containing 28 statements, which were concerning diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, etiopathogenesis and comorbidities, investigations, lifestyle modifications and treatments. Owing to the Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, lockdowns and mobility restrictions, web-based meetings and electronic voting were the major tools used to develop this consensus. A statement was regarded as accepted when the sum of "completely accepted" and "accepted with minor reservation" voted responses were 80% or higher. Finally, the consensus was achieved on all 28 statements. The consensus team members are of the view that this work may find use in teaching, patient care, and research on IBS in India and other nations.},
}

Adult
Humans
Communicable Disease Control
Comorbidity
*COVID-19/epidemiology/complications
*Gastroenterology
*Irritable Bowel Syndrome/diagnosis/epidemiology/etiology

@article {pmid32268635,
year = {2020},
author = {, },
title = {[Health protection guideline of conference designated hotel during COVID-19 outbreak].},
journal = {Zhonghua yu fang yi xue za zhi [Chinese journal of preventive medicine]},
volume = {54},
number = {4},
pages = {342-344},
doi = {10.3760/cma.j.cn112150-20200217-00127},
pmid = {32268635},
issn = {0253-9624},
mesh = {Humans ; Betacoronavirus ; China ; *Communicable Disease Control/methods ; Congresses as Topic ; *Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control ; COVID-19 ; Disease Outbreaks ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Pneumonia, Viral/prevention & control ; *Private Facilities ; *Public Health/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {This guideline stipulates the management requirements, personal protection and comprehensive security of conference designated hotels. It is applicable to the unified standard prevention and control of conference designated hotels during COVID-19 outbreak.},
}

Humans
Betacoronavirus
China
*Communicable Disease Control/methods
Congresses as Topic
*Coronavirus Infections/prevention & control
COVID-19
Disease Outbreaks
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Pneumonia, Viral/prevention & control
*Private Facilities
*Public Health/methods
SARS-CoV-2

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41717886,
year = {2026},
author = {Cucunawangsih, C and Ansori, ANM and Vatvani, AD and Hariyanto, TI},
title = {Impact of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir on the risk of long COVID in outpatients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Expert review of anti-infective therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-14},
doi = {10.1080/14787210.2026.2636175},
pmid = {41717886},
issn = {1744-8336},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study systematically synthesized existing evidence to evaluate whether outpatient treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir during the acute phase reduces the incidence of long COVID.

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

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

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

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

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

FUNDING: Governments of Germany and Australia.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41612314,
year = {2026},
author = {Roshdi, G and Motealleh, A},
title = {Telerehabilitation in the management of urinary incontinence in women: a narrative review.},
journal = {BMC women's health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41612314},
issn = {1472-6874},
abstract = {Urinary incontinence (UI) is a prevalent condition affecting millions worldwide, particularly women, with significant impacts on physical, psychological, and socioeconomic aspects of life (Haylen et al., Neurourol Urodyn 29:4–20, 2010; Aoki et al., Nat Rev Dis Primers 3:1–20, 2017). Conventional management includes behavioral therapy, pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), and pharmacological interventions, but barriers such as social stigma, access to specialists, and poor treatment adherence persist (Nitti Rev Urol 3, 2001; Sinclair et al., Obstet Gynaecol 13:143-8, 2011; Minassian et al., 111:324-31, 2008; Milsom et al., Eur Urol 65:79-95, 2014). Telerehabilitation—defined as the delivery of rehabilitation services via electronic information and communication technologies (e.g., video conferencing and phone calls for improved access; mobile apps, websites, and virtual reality (VR) for enhanced engagement and self-management)—offers a potentially promising alternative to overcome these obstacles (Buckingham et al., JMIRx Med 3:e30516, 2022). This narrative review synthesizes evidence from studies conducted between January 2000 and November 6, 2025 on telerehabilitation’s role in UI management in women, focusing on stress UI, PFMT efficacy, and comparative outcomes with in-person therapy. It addresses gaps in prior systematic reviews by focusing on patient-centered designs and cultural adaptations. Key findings from 25 included studies indicate that telerehabilitation is feasible, effective in reducing UI symptoms, improving quality of life (QoL), and enhancing adherence, particularly through mobile apps and group-based interventions (Asklund et al., Neurourol Urodyn 36:1369-76, 2017; Sjostrom et al., BJU Int 112:362-72, 2013; Hoffman et al., Gynecol Scand 96:1180-7, 2017). However, limitations include heterogeneity in interventions, small sample sizes in many studies, lack of long-term data, absence of male participants, limited validation in rural or cognitively impaired populations, and insufficient cultural adaptations for diverse groups. Recommendations include developing tailored telerehabilitation programs incorporating biofeedback and interdisciplinary approaches to address UI holistically. This review highlights telerehabilitation’s potential as a scalable, cost-effective intervention, particularly post-COVID-19, and calls for further research in diverse female populations.},
}

@article {pmid41349892,
year = {2026},
author = {Cohen, JFW and Bennett, BL and Calvert, HG and Schwartz, MB and Turner, L and Toossi, S},
title = {Associations Between the US Department of Agriculture COVID-19 Pandemic Waivers and Summer Meal Programs Access and Participation: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics},
volume = {126},
number = {3},
pages = {156249},
doi = {10.1016/j.jand.2025.156249},
pmid = {41349892},
issn = {2212-2672},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *United States Department of Agriculture ; United States ; *Food Services/statistics & numerical data ; Child ; *Food Assistance/statistics & numerical data ; Schools ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Meals ; Pandemics ; Poverty ; Seasons ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Summer Meal Programs (SMPs) are funded to ensure children from low-income households continue to have access to food over the summer months when most schools are closed for instruction. However, these programs are underutilized compared with school meal programs, in part due to barriers to accessing SMPs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, USDA waived several restrictions related to area eligibility and meal distribution.

OBJECTIVES: To systematically review the evidence of the association between USDA pandemic waivers and SMPs access (ie, scope and coverage) and participation.

METHODS: Three electronic databases were searched (PubMed, Education Resources Information Center, and Thomson Reuters Web of Science) to identify peer-reviewed and government studies that examined associations between USDA pandemic waivers and changes in the number of SMP sponsors, sites, participants, and/or meals served. Inclusion criteria included studies conducted in the United States and published in English between August 2021 and June 2024. Qualitative studies, studies conducted only during the school year, or studies that did not examine the association between the waivers and relevant outcomes were excluded. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Articles were narratively synthesized.

RESULTS: Twelve articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority found increases in the number of SMP sites that were sponsored by public schools after the pandemic waivers. However, some studies found decreases specifically among nonpublic school-sponsored sites. The majority also found increases in the number of children and/or meals served, even in the presence of fewer sites.

CONCLUSIONS: Evidence suggests that the pandemic waivers were associated with improvements in scope, coverage, and participation in SMPs. Continued support of state agencies to administer SMPs using flexible and innovative strategies should be considered.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*United States Department of Agriculture
United States
*Food Services/statistics & numerical data
Child
*Food Assistance/statistics & numerical data
Schools
SARS-CoV-2
*Meals
Pandemics
Poverty
Seasons

@article {pmid41714597,
year = {2026},
author = {Kasai, M and Sakuma, H and Suzuki, M and Nishiyama, M and Kawata, N and Lin, JJ and Lin, KL and Han, V and Mohammad, SS and Dale, RC and Thomas, T and Muramatsu, K and Mitani, O and Kobayashi, Y and Ishida, K and Abe, Y and Kuki, I and Takanashi, JI},
title = {Life-Threatening SARS-CoV-2-Associated Encephalopathy and Multiorgan Failure in Children, Asia and Oceania, 2022-2024.},
journal = {Emerging infectious diseases},
volume = {32},
number = {2},
pages = {169-179},
doi = {10.3201/eid3202.250549},
pmid = {41714597},
issn = {1080-6059},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; *Multiple Organ Failure/virology/epidemiology/etiology/mortality ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Male ; Female ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; *Brain Diseases/virology/epidemiology ; Infant ; Brain Edema/virology/etiology ; Adolescent ; Pandemics ; Asia/epidemiology ; Japan/epidemiology ; Australia/epidemiology ; Singapore/epidemiology ; Taiwan/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infections in children occasionally manifest with severe neurologic signs. We report a case series of life-threatening encephalopathy associated with SARS-CoV-2 in 25 children in Australia, Japan, Singapore, and Taiwan during February 2022-January 2024. All children had severe encephalopathy develop, characterized by rapidly progressive cerebral edema, conditions known as acute shock with encephalopathy and multiorgan failure or acute fulminant cerebral edema. Among the 25 patients, 22 (88%) eventually died; 11 (44%) children died within 24 hours of hospitalization. In addition, 18 (72%) had illness manifest with shock, and 14 (56%) had multiorgan failure develop within 6 hours of neurologic onset. Serum concentrations of cytokines/chemokines including interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor-α were significantly higher within 24 hours of onset than for controls. SARS-CoV-2-associated encephalopathy cases such as those described here represent an emerging neurologic crisis with high mortality rate resulting from rapidly progressive brain edema and multiorgan failure.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41606631,
year = {2026},
author = {Kyriakopoulos, AM and McCullough, PA and Seneff, S},
title = {Taurine intake ameliorates lactic acidosis and hyperferritinemia occurring after mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in a patient with β-thalassemia trait: a case report and review of literature.},
journal = {Journal of medical case reports},
volume = {20},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41606631},
issn = {1752-1947},
support = {6950759//Quanta Computer, Inc./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Adult ; *Acidosis, Lactic/drug therapy/etiology/prevention & control ; *Taurine/therapeutic use/administration & dosage ; *Hyperferritinemia/drug therapy/etiology ; *beta-Thalassemia/complications ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Ferritins/blood ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Taurine is a powerful antioxidant necessary for mitochondrial function. Lactic acidosis is a complication encountered in the condition mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS), which can be successfully treated with supplemental taurine. Furthermore, taurine regulates the production of iron-dependent proteins such as ferritin that can act as chelating agents to sequester labile iron.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 38-year-old Greek male with a β-zero thalassemia trait developed multiple severe symptoms soon after his first and only mRNA (Pfizer) SARS-CoV-2 vaccination that included hematological stress to be a candidate for blood transfusion. Amongst the hematological readings, the patient had lactate levels > 4 mmol/ml, indicating lactic acidosis, and ferritin levels > 820 ng/ml, representing hyperferritinemia. Moreover, the patient has organic acid and plasma metabolite levels in the urine that are indicative of mitochondrial dysfunction. Regular taurine intake (500 mg/day) for years helped the patient control lactate and ferritin levels and avoid more serious clinical decompensation.

CONCLUSION: Regular taurine intake helps to avoid lactic acidosis and reverse hyperferritinemia after mRNA SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in a patient with β-zero thalassemia trait with no obvious genetic trait linked to mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes. Taurine seemed to be protective for mitochondria.},
}

Humans
Male
Adult
*Acidosis, Lactic/drug therapy/etiology/prevention & control
*Taurine/therapeutic use/administration & dosage
*Hyperferritinemia/drug therapy/etiology
*beta-Thalassemia/complications
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
COVID-19/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2
Ferritins/blood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41540524,
year = {2025},
author = {Bhattacharya, S and Easmin, N and Panja, A and Nayak, A and Sur, D},
title = {mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccines: A Review of the Current Scenario and Future Prospects.},
journal = {Protein and peptide letters},
volume = {32},
number = {11},
pages = {776-790},
doi = {10.2174/0109298665402963251022054441},
pmid = {41540524},
issn = {1875-5305},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics ; *Neoplasms/therapy/immunology ; *RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics/therapeutic use ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; Immunotherapy/methods ; Animals ; mRNA Vaccines ; COVID-19/immunology ; Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) has gained increasing attention as a valuable tool to cure various human diseases, particularly malignant tumors. Such growing interest has been triggered largely by the phenomenal clinical success of mRNA vaccines developed using lipid nanoparticle (LNP) technology against COVID-19. mRNA may be used to produce cancer immunotherapies in numerous different ways, including cancer vaccines to induce or enhance immunity to tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) or tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). mRNA can also be used to adoptively transfer T-cells for the expression of antigen receptors, such as chimeric antigen receptors (CARs), therapeutic antibodies, and immunomodulatory proteins to re-engineer the tumor microenvironment. However, the therapeutic potential of mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy is not fully utilized due to a few limitations, such as mRNA instability, production of immunogenicity, and a lack of efficient in-vivo delivery methods. This review provides an overview of the current advancements and future directions of mRNA-based cancer therapies, including various delivery routes and therapeutic platforms. It addresses the mechanistic basis of mRNA cancer vaccines, non-replicating and self-amplifying mRNA, as well as their clinical development, personalized vaccines, and applications of mRNA for encoding antigen receptors, antibodies, and immunomodulatory proteins. Moreover, the review addresses nanoparticle-based platforms, such as lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), polymeric nanoparticles, and peptide-based nanoparticles, all used to improve the therapeutic effectiveness of mRNA-based drugs by improving their targeted delivery to tissues. This review aims to provide insights into the use of state-of-the-art mRNA-based cancer immunotherapy.},
}

Humans
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use/genetics
*Neoplasms/therapy/immunology
*RNA, Messenger/immunology/genetics/therapeutic use
Nanoparticles/chemistry
Immunotherapy/methods
Animals
mRNA Vaccines
COVID-19/immunology
Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid41428252,
year = {2026},
author = {Yet, M and Teo, HS and Kwa, H and Yeo, J and Wang, SSY},
title = {Long COVID: a review of mechanisms and treatment modalities.},
journal = {Inflammopharmacology},
volume = {34},
number = {2},
pages = {1111-1121},
pmid = {41428252},
issn = {1568-5608},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/complications/immunology/physiopathology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {Long COVID is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a condition arising within 3 months of an acute COVID infection with symptoms lasting for a minimum of 2 weeks. However, this syndrome is poorly understood and has been recorded to include many systemic manifestations, including neurological, respiratory, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, dermatological, psychosocial, and metabolic systems. Constitutional symptoms also include fatigue, insomnia, body weight changes, poor attention span, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, myalgia, and joint pain, with fatigue being the most common. Given the various proposed mechanisms published in the literature, the postulated mechanisms and pathways are discussed in this paper to contribute to the understanding of defining this syndrome. In this review article, the authors first explored how endothelial damage from COVID infection can lead to a hypercoagulable state. In addition, the effects of an insufficient initial immune response can lead to viral persistence alongside a potentially prolonged hyperactive immune response that includes a cytokine storm and mast cell activation syndrome. Furthermore, the viral persistence can be exacerbated by antibody-dependent enhancement or complicated by molecular mimicry. Current pharmacological therapies are explored and evaluated to investigate their efficacy in addressing this complex and chronic presentation. This review article has been written after an extensive literature review to increase the understanding and awareness regarding Long COVID, as a sincere effort to direct further research for an effective diagnosis and management.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/complications/immunology/physiopathology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41702637,
year = {2026},
author = {Torres Munguía, JA and Martínez-Zarzoso, I},
title = {Global trends of pandemic-prone and epidemic-prone disease outbreaks in 2024.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {2},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2025-020708},
pmid = {41702637},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *Global Health/statistics & numerical data ; *Disease Outbreaks/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {During 2024, the number of pandemic-prone and epidemic-prone disease outbreaks worldwide was estimated at 301. The data highlight a shift in disease outbreak patterns, with a decline in the number of countries reporting public health events of concern linked to COVID-19 and a rise in those reporting outbreaks of viral diseases transmitted by vectors.About 90% of the outbreaks in 2024 were associated with COVID-19, dengue, yellow fever, Oropouche virus disease and influenza (linked to identified zoonotic or pandemic influenza virus). Although disease outbreaks can affect any country anywhere, they tend to disproportionately occur in countries facing many other socio-economic development, climatic and humanitarian challenges. In this regard, sub-Saharan Africa and the subregion of Latin America and the Caribbean-home to just 23.3% of the world's population-reported the highest number of disease outbreaks in 2024 with about 57% of the total. Particularly, the sub-Saharan Africa region has been the site of nearly 32% of recorded outbreaks since 1996. Future research should include efforts to improve the quality and availability of disease outbreaks data-particularly in the most exposed or vulnerable regions-and to promote the scientific use of such information for foresight purposes and for forecasting future health events of concern to support anticipatory action.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41700931,
year = {2026},
author = {Dhawan, S and Hughes, J and Matveyenko, AV and Poitout, V},
title = {Staying Functional Through Connection and Adaptation: When Islets Inspire Islet Biologists.},
journal = {Diabetes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.2337/dbi25-0036},
pmid = {41700931},
issn = {1939-327X},
support = {//J.W. Kieckhefer Foundation/ ; R01DK098468/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01DK132597/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01DK138974/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01DK140088/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; R01DK140365/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States ; RGPIN-2022-03732//Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada/ ; //Diabetes Canada/ ; PJT-469193//Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes/ ; },
abstract = {In response to the lockdowns and travel bans during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, Peter C. Butler at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), started a virtual islet biology seminar series. After the authors of this article joined him as co-organizers, this initiative became the Islet Research Seminar Series (IRSS). Like islets of Langerhans adapt to their changing environment, the islet biology community quickly embraced this new format. The IRSS evolved into a lasting scientific forum that convenes weekly and is attended by islet biologists from the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Israel. The series covers a range of topics in islet biology, with presentations from scientists representing all career stages. It has proven particularly valuable for trainees and early-stage investigators in exposing them to a variety of topics in islet biology without travel required and facilitating more spontaneous interactions with senior scientists than at in-person meetings. While the online format is not meant to replace live scientific conferences, we believe that the IRSS plays a unique role in keeping the islet biology community connected and abreast of the most recent scientific discoveries in our field. The success of this platform stands as a testament to the scientific community to adapt and thrive through challenges. This article is dedicated to Peter C. Butler, UCLA, who initiated the IRSS.},
}

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41389117,
year = {2026},
author = {Okesanya, OJ and Oso, TA and Adebayo, UO and Obadofin, JA and Abdulghaniy, RO and Bamigbade, AA and Ogaya, JB and Ngwoke, I and Ahmed, MM and Aban, JL},
title = {Transforming public mental health: a review on global trends, challenges, and pathways to change.},
journal = {Health care analysis : HCA : journal of health philosophy and policy},
volume = {34},
number = {1},
pages = {57-85},
pmid = {41389117},
issn = {1573-3394},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *Global Health ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology ; *Mental Health ; *Public Health/trends ; *Mental Health Services/organization & administration ; Developing Countries ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {This review synthesizes global trends, persistent challenges, and actionable pathways for overhauling public mental health systems, with a particular focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Thematic analysis of our review revealed that mental health disorders now affect nearly one in eight people worldwide, yet up to 75% of those in LMICs receive no treatment due to stigma, underfunding, workforce shortages, and fragmented systems, perpetuating a widening "treatment and care gap." Social inequities, harmful cultural norms, conflict, climate change, and gender disparities further amplify the risk and economic burden, projected to exceed US$6 trillion by 2030. Innovative financing approaches, including public-private partnerships and models from countries such as Norway and Australia, offer promising strategies for sustainable investments. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified mental health challenges but also raised global awareness, with leaders such as the United Nations Secretary-General and the United States Surgeon General foregrounding mental health crises in the public consciousness. Advocacy initiatives, including the FundaMentalSDG campaign, Lancet Commissions, Global Mental Health Action Network, and Global Mental Health Peer Network, have been pivotal in elevating mental health within the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and linking it to social determinants. Emerging solutions include rights-based frameworks that emphasize participation and anti-discrimination, scaling up task-sharing and expanded roles for non-specialists through programs such as the World Health Organization's Mental Health Gap Action Programme, community-based interventions like Zimbabwe's Friendship Bench, and integration of mental health into primary care with dedicated counsellors, structured referral pathways, and digital innovations promising improved access and personalization. Sustained progress requires intersectoral collaboration across health, education, labor, and social sectors; embedding mental health into national health information systems; and investing in culturally adapted promotion and prevention interventions throughout the life course. Strengthening political commitment, global-local leadership, financing frameworks, and workforce capacity, particularly through continuous professional development and lived-experience participation, will accelerate progress toward the SDGs, underscoring the imperative for equitable financing and sustained political will globally.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
*Global Health
*Mental Disorders/therapy/epidemiology
*Mental Health
*Public Health/trends
*Mental Health Services/organization & administration
Developing Countries
SARS-CoV-2

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41235593,
year = {2026},
author = {Arya, P and Brooks, KA and Cross, A and Alfonso, KP and Govil, N},
title = {Early Outcomes of Cochlear Implantation for Pediatric COVID-19 Related Single Sided Deafness: Case Series and Literature Review.},
journal = {The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology},
volume = {135},
number = {3},
pages = {212-216},
doi = {10.1177/00034894251386688},
pmid = {41235593},
issn = {1943-572X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; Male ; *Cochlear Implantation/methods ; Child ; Adolescent ; Female ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/surgery/etiology ; Treatment Outcome ; Retrospective Studies ; *Hearing Loss, Sudden/surgery/etiology ; *Hearing Loss, Unilateral/surgery/etiology ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a rare manifestation of COVID-19. Cochlear implantation (CI) has been reported for definitive management of COVID-19 related single sided deafness (SSD) in adults. We present the first cases of pediatric CI for presumed COVID-19 related SSD.

METHODS: Patients under 18 years were included who underwent CI following SSNHL after COVID-19 infection via retrospective review. Literature review was performed on PubMed for "cochlear implant" and "COVID" and "deafness or hearing loss."

RESULTS: A 13-year-old boy (patient A) and 6-year-old girl (patient B) met inclusion criteria; both patients underwent round window insertion of a perimodiolar electrode. For patient A, audiogram showed SNHL in the left ear; pre-operative word recognition score (WRS) and speech awareness threshold (SAT) were 20% at 100 dB HL and 90 dB HL, respectively. The patient underwent CI 9 months post-infection; SAT for patient A improved to 25 dB HL at 2.5 months after surgery. Patient B's pre-operative WRS and SAT in the affected ear were 0% at 100 dB HL and non-responsive, respectively. She underwent right CI 10 months post-infection; her SAT improved post-operatively to 20 dB HL at 2 post-operative months. Neither patient suffered from intra- or post-operative complication. Both patients and their caregivers reported subjective benefit from CI.

CONCLUSION: Single-sided deafness is a rare neurological complication from COVID-19. CI is a valuable tool for restoring hearing localization and awareness in this scenario. Early success with these cases demonstrates technical feasibility and benefit with this management of pediatric COVID-19 related SSD.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
Male
*Cochlear Implantation/methods
Child
Adolescent
Female
SARS-CoV-2
*Hearing Loss, Sensorineural/surgery/etiology
Treatment Outcome
Retrospective Studies
*Hearing Loss, Sudden/surgery/etiology
*Hearing Loss, Unilateral/surgery/etiology

@article {pmid41077932,
year = {2026},
author = {Acuña-Muñoz, MJ and Carvajal-Trujillo, E and Orts-Cardador, JJ and Liébana-Cabanillas, F},
title = {A five-decade review of academic research on healthcare supply chain: a bibliometric approach using co-word analysis and bibliographic coupling.},
journal = {International journal of health care quality assurance},
volume = {39},
number = {1},
pages = {1-21},
doi = {10.1108/IJHCQA-01-2024-0003},
pmid = {41077932},
issn = {1758-6542},
mesh = {*Bibliometrics ; Humans ; *Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration ; *Health Services Research ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: This paper analysed the impact and evolution of scientific research on the healthcare supply chain (HCS) from a longitudinal perspective, covering the period 1971-2024. The study used data from the Web of Science and Scopus databases to identify emerging and established areas of study in the field of HCS.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A bibliometric study was conducted using a dataset of 3,602 publications. The analysis focused on keyword co-occurrences to examine the evolution of HCS research. The representation of keywords is presented in tables, diagrams and longitudinal maps to highlight research topics in the field.

FINDINGS: This study provides insights into the evolution of HCS research in terms of emerging and established areas of study. The analysis of 3,602 publications allowed the identification of key themes and trends in the field and offers a comprehensive view of the state of the art. The results are presented through tables, diagrams and longitudinal maps, thus facilitating a clearer understanding of the research landscape.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The findings have practical implications for researchers and scholars in the HSC domain. The identified research areas and trends provide valuable guidance for future research in the field. Researchers can use this information to navigate the current state of the field and make informed decisions about the direction of their research.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This study contributes to the understanding of the evolution of scientific research on healthcare supply chain from 1971 to 2024. By employing bibliometric analysis and visual representations, a unique perspective on the HCS landscape is presented. The results provide valuable insights for researchers and scholars, offering a foundation for further investigations in the field of HSC research.},
}

*Bibliometrics
Humans
*Delivery of Health Care/organization & administration
*Health Services Research

@article {pmid40998585,
year = {2026},
author = {Spurway, C and Williams, I and Ayinde, OC and Bohm, C and Burns, F and Gibbs, J and Josh, J and Munro, H and Woode Owusu, M and Solomon, D and Ross, JD and Jackson, LJ},
title = {Remote consultations in sexual and reproductive health services: a systematic review of evidence on effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, experiences, access and equity.},
journal = {Sexually transmitted infections},
volume = {102},
number = {2},
pages = {109-122},
doi = {10.1136/sextrans-2024-056458},
pmid = {40998585},
issn = {1472-3263},
mesh = {Humans ; *Reproductive Health Services/economics ; *Health Services Accessibility/economics ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Cost-Benefit Analysis ; *Sexual Health ; *Remote Consultation/economics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Female ; Health Equity ; Cost-Effectiveness Analysis ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: Timely access to sexual health screening and contraception is an important public health issue. Substantial funding reductions for sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS) and COVID-19 have led to significant changes in service delivery, including the rapid introduction of remote consultations, as a substitute for in-person contact. There is limited evidence relating to the barriers to remote consultations and how these may impact sexual health outcomes and wider health inequalities. This study synthesises existing evidence on remote consultations to examine effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, experiences, access and equity.

METHODS: Eighteen electronic databases were systematically searched to locate relevant studies published from OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) countries after 2010. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool was used to evaluate the quality of the studies.

RESULTS: Out of 8690 studies identified, 48 met the inclusion criteria. The included studies were heterogeneous and covered a range of topics; however, few focused on health inequalities and remote consultations, with satisfaction and quality of care being the most common outcome measures. Many of the studies were completed post-2020 in response to COVID-19 and were of medium to low quality. Access to technology and communication challenges were found to impact inequality when accessing SRHS via remote consultations, although they enhance convenience for service users and service providers.

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the review shows that a range of studies have investigated remote consultations in SRHS, but there remains limited evidence on the impact on health inequalities and sexual health outcomes. The surge in post-2020 research, spurred by COVID-19, indicates the necessity for further high-quality research into equitable SRHS delivery in the post-COVID era, particularly in addressing technological and communication barriers. There is a need to further optimise access and the delivery of remote consultations in SRHS, considering the needs of service users, and minimising inequality (observed differences) and inequity (unfair differences).CRD42023397288.},
}

Humans
*Reproductive Health Services/economics
*Health Services Accessibility/economics
COVID-19/epidemiology
Cost-Benefit Analysis
*Sexual Health
*Remote Consultation/economics
SARS-CoV-2
Female
Health Equity
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

@article {pmid40910214,
year = {2025},
author = {Paliwal, S and Agarwal, U and Tonk, RK},
title = {Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: A Versatile Therapeutic Approach for Cancer, Autoimmune Disorders, GVHD and COVID-19.},
journal = {Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry},
volume = {25},
number = {20},
pages = {1555-1587},
pmid = {40910214},
issn = {1875-5607},
mesh = {Humans ; *Agammaglobulinaemia Tyrosine Kinase/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism ; *Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry ; *Neoplasms/drug therapy/metabolism ; *Autoimmune Diseases/drug therapy ; COVID-19 ; *Graft vs Host Disease/drug therapy ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; *Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors ; },
abstract = {Recent trends have shown the development of various medicinally important compounds that specifically target B-cell receptor (BCR) pathways at various segments that have a major role in Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) receptor, which belongs to the family of kinases. These kinases are usually situated close to the cell membrane due to which they participate in upstream processing of BCR signalling. Various molecules have been potentialized to target these signalling pathways of these kinase receptors in order to achieve a pharmacological effect. Given the central role of BTK in immunity, BTK inhibition represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of multiple diseases. BTK inhibitors work by regulating B-cell receptor signalling along with inflammatory pathways and immune cell interactions, offering more advanced treatment options compared to traditional therapies. In addition to BTK inhibitors, an extensive knowledge of the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the blockage of these receptors is necessary in order to more accurately forecast when and where a patient could need combination therapy or just one medication. Efforts have been made to facilitate translational discoveries, drug re-purposing concepts, and further development of precision medicine products. This thorough literature study has focused on studies published until June 2025.},
}

Humans
*Agammaglobulinaemia Tyrosine Kinase/antagonists & inhibitors/metabolism
*Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use/pharmacology/chemistry
*Neoplasms/drug therapy/metabolism
*Autoimmune Diseases/drug therapy
COVID-19
*Graft vs Host Disease/drug therapy
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
*Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors

@article {pmid40754875,
year = {2025},
author = {Palacios-Cruz, M and Castellar-Lopez, J and Pretelt, JM and Chang, AY and Mendoza-Torres, E},
title = {The Counter-Regulatory Renin-Angiotensin System: A Surprising Ally in the Field of COVID-19.},
journal = {Infectious disorders drug targets},
volume = {25},
number = {7},
pages = {e18715265352715},
pmid = {40754875},
issn = {2212-3989},
mesh = {Humans ; *Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Angiotensin I/metabolism ; Peptide Fragments/metabolism ; Pandemics ; *Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/virology ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology ; Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism ; *Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Over the past four years, SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 have become global health crises, spurring extensive research on virus behavior, complications, and treatments. The virus interacts with a component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), altering inflammatory, hypertrophic, and hemodynamic responses via binding to ACE2 found in organs like the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

OBJECTIVE: This review explores the RAS-COVID-19 interplay, focusing on key molecules like ACE2, Ang-(1-7), and Ang-(1-9), influencing susceptibility, severity, and treatments. It seeks to clarify ACE2's dual role in viral entry and protection and assess the therapeutic potential of balancing Ang-(1-7) and Ang-(1-9) to prevent disease progression and related complications.

METHODS: Studies were chosen through a systematic search in databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The inclusion criteria were centered on peer-reviewed research that explored the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 and important RAS molecules, including ACE2, Ang-(1-7), and Ang-(1-9), seeking information on therapies, severity, and susceptibility. Non-peer-reviewed articles and those lacking focus on RAS-COVID-19 interplay were excluded. Titles and abstracts were screened, followed by full-text assessment and data extraction for analysis.

RESULTS: Some studies indicate that the peptides Ang-(1-7) and Ang-(1-9) could provide protective effects against heart-related complications by counteracting the harmful impacts of the angiotensin II pathway, which is often exacerbated by SARS-CoV-2. Ang-(1-7) and Ang-(1-9) are recognized for promoting vasodilation, reducing inflammation, and preventing fibrosis, which can mitigate the heart damage typically associated with COVID-19.

DISCUSSION: ACE2, a component of the non-canonical RAS, is closely linked to SARS-CoV-2 and plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of COVID-19. Ang-(1-9) and Ang-(1-7) are produced by ACE2 and have demonstrated positive cardiovascular effects. In the context of COVID-19, Ang-(1- 7) has shown protective effects in preclinical studies and clinical trials; however, more evidence is needed to support this effect.

CONCLUSION: Further research, including clinical trials, is vital to understand and develop precise therapies for COVID-19 and similar infectious diseases.},
}

Humans
*Renin-Angiotensin System/physiology/drug effects
COVID-19
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
Angiotensin I/metabolism
Peptide Fragments/metabolism
Pandemics
*Pneumonia, Viral/drug therapy/virology
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/virology
Peptidyl-Dipeptidase A/metabolism
*Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid39410827,
year = {2025},
author = {Cavasin, D and Zanini, U and Montelisciani, L and Valsecchi, MG and Fabbri, L and Antolini, L and Luppi, F},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 infection on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Monaldi archives for chest disease = Archivio Monaldi per le malattie del torace},
volume = {95},
number = {4},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4081/monaldi.2024.3070},
pmid = {39410827},
issn = {2532-5264},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/mortality/complications/epidemiology ; *Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/mortality/complications ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 has a negative impact on the survival of respiratory patients, especially those with interstitial lung disease. This review aims to better understand the effect of COVID-19 on patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). A systematic search of MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus performed from December 2019 up to July 2024 identified relevant studies. Eligibility criteria included English language, sample size ≥10 patients, COVID-19 infection, and outcome measures. Two independent reviewers assessed studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for bias and extracted data. Meta-analysis employed a random-effects model, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation assessed evidence quality. Outcomes considered were hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, and mortality. Of the 1541 initially identified articles, 6 high-quality studies were included. Meta-analysis revealed a 34% mortality rate [95% confidence interval (CI): 21-48%], 36% hospitalization rate (95% CI: 10-75%), and 31% intensive care unit admission rate (95% CI: 7-71%) among IPF patients with COVID-19. The certainty of evidence was low or very low due to publication bias and heterogeneity. This study underscores the elevated risk of hospitalization and death in IPF patients with COVID-19, emphasizing the vulnerability of this population. Prompt and tailored care is crucial to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on IPF patients, necessitating proactive measures, vaccination, and comprehensive management.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/mortality/complications/epidemiology
*Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis/mortality/complications
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data
Intensive Care Units/statistics & numerical data
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid40971880,
year = {2026},
author = {Björk, J and Rasmussen, G and Johansson, S and Dagerhamn, J and Olofsson, H and Wilbe Ramsay, K},
title = {Non-pharmaceutical interventions to prevent community transmission of infectious diseases with pandemic potential-an umbrella review and evidence map.},
journal = {European journal of public health},
volume = {36},
number = {1},
pages = {200-207},
doi = {10.1093/eurpub/ckaf170},
pmid = {40971880},
issn = {1464-360X},
support = {//Swedish Agency for Health Technology Assessment and Assessment of Social Services/ ; 2022-06358//Swedish Research council/ ; 2022-06358//Swedish Research Council/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/transmission/epidemiology ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Communicable Disease Control/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Influenza, Human/prevention & control/transmission ; Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/prevention & control/transmission ; Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/prevention & control/transmission ; },
abstract = {During the COVID-19 pandemic, most countries implemented non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to mitigate virus transmission and decrease morbidity and mortality. The aim of this umbrella review was to identify and map systematic reviews on the effectiveness of NPIs to reduce widespread community transmission of infectious diseases with pandemic potential. We searched electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Scopus, INAHTA [International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Asseesment], and World Health Organization COVID-19) and websites (January 2024). Systematic reviews on NPIs during outbreaks, epidemics, or pandemics of COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), influenza, or Ebola were included and organized in an interactive evidence map grouped by type of intervention (individual/population/environmental), disease, risk of bias, and search date. Five of the 132 included reviews were assessed as having low, 43 moderate, and 84 high risk of bias. COVID-19 was targeted in 100 reviews, influenza 66, SARS 39, MERS 34, and Ebola in five reviews. The most frequently investigated NPIs were use of face masks, hand washing, physical distancing, travel restrictions, restrictions on public gatherings, and school closures. The five reviews at low risk of bias concluded at low level of evidence about the effectiveness of most NPIs, with exceptions of hand hygiene and some measures in school settings where low- to moderate-certainty evidence was found. There is substantial lack of evidence regarding the effectiveness of several commonly used NPIs, including restrictions on public gatherings, travel restrictions, and visiting restrictions in long-term care facilities. There is a paucity not only of systematic reviews but also of primary studies at low risk of bias.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/transmission/epidemiology
*Pandemics/prevention & control
*Communicable Disease Control/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Influenza, Human/prevention & control/transmission
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome/prevention & control/transmission
Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/prevention & control/transmission

@article {pmid40971149,
year = {2026},
author = {Cotter, TG and Anouti, A and VanWagner, LB and Verna, EC and Goldberg, DS and Keyes, KM and Schaefer, N and Lee, M and Fernandez, A and Rady, ED and Mitchell, MC and Mellinger, JL and , },
title = {Early liver transplantation in alcohol-associated liver disease-Evolution of practice, patient selection, management, and outcomes.},
journal = {Liver transplantation : official publication of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the International Liver Transplantation Society},
volume = {32},
number = {3},
pages = {428-443},
pmid = {40971149},
issn = {1527-6473},
mesh = {Humans ; *Liver Transplantation/methods ; *Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/surgery/mortality/psychology/epidemiology ; *Patient Selection ; Alcohol Abstinence ; Treatment Outcome ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Alcoholism ; Time-to-Treatment ; },
abstract = {Early liver transplantation (eLT) for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), defined as transplantation with less than 6 months of alcohol abstinence, has emerged as a standard intervention for carefully selected patients unresponsive to medical therapy. Rising ALD prevalence, driven by increased alcohol use, particularly among patients in early adulthood, and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to an increased demand for eLT for ALD. Recent studies have demonstrated that eLT can yield survival outcomes comparable to standard liver transplantation, although patient selection remains challenging, with return to drinking (RTD) after transplant a primary concern. Various psychosocial evaluation tools can help identify candidates at lower risk for RTD, but predictive accuracy remains limited due to the complex, individualized nature of alcohol use disorder among ALD patients. Multidisciplinary approaches to managing alcohol use disorder, such as integrated care models, are increasingly being adopted to improve outcomes and achieve sustained alcohol abstinence after transplant. Despite the recent increase in eLT for ALD, international practices vary widely, with countries like the United States, France, and Belgium leading in adoption, whereas others still impose strict sobriety requirements. Notably, racial, ethnic, and geographic disparities in access to eLT for ALD have emerged, highlighting the need for more standardized and equitable practices. This review traces the development and expansion of eLT in ALD, addressing selection and management challenges, while proposing a biopsychosocial framework to optimize patient and graft outcomes across the liver transplantation continuum.},
}

Humans
*Liver Transplantation/methods
*Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/surgery/mortality/psychology/epidemiology
*Patient Selection
Alcohol Abstinence
Treatment Outcome
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Alcoholism
Time-to-Treatment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41693062,
year = {2026},
author = {Deane-King, J and Howell, J and Maguire, R},
title = {Experiences of Individuals With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Their Caregivers During the Pandemic: A Systematic Review.},
journal = {Nursing open},
volume = {13},
number = {2},
pages = {e70462},
doi = {10.1002/nop2.70462},
pmid = {41693062},
issn = {2054-1058},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/psychology ; *Caregivers/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Pandemics ; Qualitative Research ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {AIM: To explore the experiences of individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (IwCOPD) and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41689404,
year = {2026},
author = {Pereira-Dias, F and de Espíndola, MB},
title = {Integrating Digital Technologies Into Biochemistry Education: A Decade of Efforts, Pandemic Impacts, and Emerging Insights.},
journal = {Biochemistry and molecular biology education : a bimonthly publication of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/bmb.70038},
pmid = {41689404},
issn = {1539-3429},
support = {//Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa e Inovação do Estado de Santa Catarina/ ; },
abstract = {This review critically examines the integration of Digital Information and Communication Technologies (TDICs) in biochemistry education over the past decade, highlighting both the benefits and challenges from a critical theoretical perspective. A systematic review was conducted to identify relevant literature, followed by thematic analysis and a detailed synthesis of the findings. Grounded in Feenberg's critical theory of technology and Selwyn's scholarship on education and digital technology, this review examines the implications of virtual laboratories, augmented reality, gamification, and online platforms in biochemistry education, as well as their implications related to the pandemic. We observed that digital technologies can enhance certain aspects of student engagement and learning outcomes; however, they can also hinder equitable access and hands-on laboratory skills. This review also highlights the key elements of critical reflection on the socio-political and ethical implications of digital technologies in biochemistry education, with a particular focus on pandemic-era concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the commercialization of teaching practices. Future research should focus on these dimensions to ensure that technological advancements do not perpetuate or amplify educational inequities.},
}

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

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

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

@article {pmid38000081,
year = {2026},
author = {Mueller, H and Corless, IB and Bell, JG and Smeding, R and Anewalt, P and Kerslake, D and Lee, GL and Cox, G and Papadatou, D and Penny, A and Becker, CB and Connor, SR},
title = {Supporting the Bereaved in the COVID-19 Era: A Scoping Review of Interventions.},
journal = {Omega},
volume = {92},
number = {4},
pages = {1882-1902},
doi = {10.1177/00302228231215478},
pmid = {38000081},
issn = {1541-3764},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology ; *Bereavement ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Family/psychology ; *Social Support ; Pandemics ; Terminal Care/psychology ; },
abstract = {People whose family member(s) friend(s) have died from COVID-19 or other causes have been deeply affected by the physical and social restrictions imposed during the pandemic. These limitations have affected end-of-life care and support for the bereaved. The purpose of this review is to identify: the published studies of evaluated programs about interventions for people who have experienced bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to develop recommendations for researchers and policy makers. Using scoping review methodology, a literature review was undertaken for articles published from January 1, 2020 through February 28, 2023 to identify interventions shown to be beneficial to people who have experienced the death of loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. The search yielded 1588 articles of which three studies met the criteria of utilizing a pre and post-test design with only one of these, a randomized controlled trial. The interventions included in this review demonstrate preliminary efficacy.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology
*Bereavement
SARS-CoV-2
*Family/psychology
*Social Support
Pandemics
Terminal Care/psychology

@article {pmid41483690,
year = {2026},
author = {Farmer, MS and Herbert, D and Torrisi, C and Zacharjasz, A and Castaneda, G and Schomberg, T and Dardis, M and Montgomery, N and Melvin, ME},
title = {Digital equity in nursing research: A methodological review of nursing studies requiring internet connection.},
journal = {Nursing outlook},
volume = {74},
number = {1},
pages = {102667},
doi = {10.1016/j.outlook.2025.102667},
pmid = {41483690},
issn = {1528-3968},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nursing Research/methods ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Internet ; *Internet Access/statistics & numerical data ; Research Design ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Shifting external factors, including public health emergencies and changes in funding, can prompt nurse scientists to modify study protocols, adopting internet-required methods for recruitment or data collection. Reliance on these methods could exclude populations, with significant implications for nursing, its science, practice, and policy. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic provides a temporal dividing point to assess the impact on these methodological decisions.

PURPOSE: This methodological review aimed to (a) quantify the prevalence of internet-required methods in nursing research before and after March 2020, and (b) evaluate their impact on participant inclusivity among digitally disconnected populations.

METHODS: We analyzed the participant recruitment and data collection methods of a random sample of 232 peer-reviewed nursing studies published in 2021. We assessed whether the methods required internet access or not, then calculated the proportional difference between studies before and after March 2020.

DISCUSSION: Studies requiring internet access increased from 18.0% pre pandemic to 52.5% post pandemic onset. Internet-required methods also increased for nurses (54.4%), the general population (18.9%), and students (36.3%).

CONCLUSION: The percentage of internet-required studies in nursing research increased significantly after March 2020. In a shifting research environment, nurse scientists and leaders must proactively address the impact of methodological changes on participant inclusion, ensuring that bridging the digital divide remains a focus of policy and practice.},
}

Humans
*Nursing Research/methods
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Internet
*Internet Access/statistics & numerical data
Research Design

@article {pmid40707219,
year = {2026},
author = {Kimura, H and Beppu, H and Kawanishi, T and Ogawa, H and Toda, M and Ishiwatari, A and Kamei, Y and Ogawa, T and Abe, Y and Endo, M and Wakai, S},
title = {Two-year Follow-up of IgA Nephropathy Patients Who Developed Gross Hematuria Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Series and Literature Review.},
journal = {Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan)},
volume = {65},
number = {4},
pages = {534-541},
doi = {10.2169/internalmedicine.5548-25},
pmid = {40707219},
issn = {1349-7235},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hematuria/etiology/diagnosis/epidemiology ; *Glomerulonephritis, IGA/complications/diagnosis ; Female ; Adult ; Male ; Retrospective Studies ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Middle Aged ; Follow-Up Studies ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; Time Factors ; },
abstract = {Objective Recent reports have shown that patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) develop gross hematuria after COVID-19 vaccination. However, the two-year prognosis remains uncertain. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 301 patients with IgAN at our institution to identify those who developed gross hematuria after COVID-19 vaccination. We evaluated the patients' baseline characteristics, clinical courses, and changes in the renal function, proteinuria, and hematuria for two years post-vaccination. In addition, we conducted a systematic literature review of 16 case studies, with 28 cases and 5 cohort studies. Results Gross hematuria was observed in eight patients after vaccination. Their mean age was 42.9 years, and 87.5% were women. All patients relapsed or did not achieve clinical remission prior to vaccination. The median time to gross hematuria onset was 1.6 days, resolving within 3 days. The mean baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 69.4 mL/min/1.73 m[2], the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) was 0.23 g/gCr, and the median baseline hematuria was 10-19 red blood cells (RBCs)/high-power field (HPF). One month after vaccination, the eGFR decreased by 8.6 mL/min/1.73 m[2] (-12.3%), the UPCR increased by 0.64 g/gCr, and hematuria increased to 50-99 RBCs/HPF. By 6 months, the eGFR and UPCR had recovered, with median hematuria decreasing to 5-9 RBCs/HPF and stabilizing by 24 months. Conclusion We revealed the extended prognosis of gross hematuria in patients with IgAN following COVID-19 vaccination. With appropriate follow-up, temporary renal deterioration improved within six months and remained stable for two years. These findings support the safety of the COVID-19 vaccination in this vulnerable population.},
}

Humans
*Hematuria/etiology/diagnosis/epidemiology
*Glomerulonephritis, IGA/complications/diagnosis
Female
Adult
Male
Retrospective Studies
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Middle Aged
Follow-Up Studies
*COVID-19/prevention & control
*Vaccination/adverse effects
Time Factors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

@article {pmid41559622,
year = {2026},
author = {Galletta, MAK and Hashimoto, AS and de Almeida Estrambk, G and Verardo, IPS and Cantagalli, MHI and Peres, SV and Francisco, RPV},
title = {Prevalence of postpartum depression in the COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors: systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {157},
pmid = {41559622},
issn = {1471-2393},
mesh = {Humans ; *Depression, Postpartum/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Female ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; Pregnancy ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic created a disruptive scenario with an increase in the prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) and new associated risk factors, which deserve to be better studied, in different global contexts, which led to the present systematic review study.

METHODS: Observational studies published in English, Portuguese, and Spanish between 2020 and 2025 were included, and a meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model.

RESULTS: An initial survey of 1741 articles, of which 90 studies were selected with a total of 64,6994 women evaluated for PPD, with a range between 50 (1) and 5,134 (2) women. The overall prevalence of postpartum depression during the COVID-19 pandemic was 28.48% (25.14-31.94), with rates of 23.52% (18.961-28.40) in studies that used the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) as a diagnostic instrument with a cutoff point ≥ 13. Studies from 31 countries were included, with higher prevalence observed in Latin America (34.08%), with lower rates in Europe (31.50%), the Middle East (29.31%), USA/Canada (24.26%), and Asia (22.32%). There was a higher prevalence of PPD in countries with a lower Human Development Index (HDI) (30.95%), with higher COVID-19 CFR (32.56%), higher maternal mortality (30.43%); and with the highest Gender Inequality Index (GII) (35.41%). PPD rates increased with postpartum time, varying between 18.31% (up to 1 month), 20.78% (up to 3 months), 34.67% (up to 6 months) and 36.55% (up to 12 months). Additionally, 11 protective factors and 53 risk factors were identified, most related to the pandemic, but also with the presence of factors already consolidated in the literature before the pandemic.

DISCUSSION: There was a global increase in the prevalence of PPD during the pandemic, with an intensification of pre-existing regional differences, causing the impact of the pandemic to be different according to the region.

CONCLUSIONS: The social and health crisis of the pandemic negatively impacted postpartum mental health, with significant regional differences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered in PROSPERO with the code CRD42023392973.},
}

Humans
*Depression, Postpartum/epidemiology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Female
Prevalence
Risk Factors
Pregnancy
Global Health
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid41061762,
year = {2026},
author = {Confalonieri, P and Reccardini, N and Kette, S and Salton, F},
title = {Complications Associated with Glucocorticoids Treatment in Critically Ill Patients.},
journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {130-139},
doi = {10.1055/a-2661-5208},
pmid = {41061762},
issn = {1098-9048},
mesh = {Humans ; *Critical Illness/therapy ; *Glucocorticoids/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use ; Hyperglycemia/chemically induced ; Intensive Care Units ; },
abstract = {Glucocorticoids (GCs) are essential immunomodulatory agents in the management of critically ill patients with severe systemic inflammation, particularly in conditions such as sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and severe community-acquired pneumonia. When administered in low-to-intermediate doses for short durations (typically ≤4 weeks, including tapering), GCs have demonstrated substantial benefits in improving patient-centered outcomes, including reduced time on mechanical ventilation, shorter ICU stays, and lower mortality rates. However, the risk-benefit profile of GC therapy in critical illness differs markedly from long-term use in chronic inflammatory diseases and must be carefully evaluated. This study provides an evidence-based synthesis of the most relevant complications associated with the use of GCs in critically ill adults. Hyperglycemia is the most frequent metabolic effect, but it is typically transient and manageable with insulin, and is not associated with worse clinical outcomes. The risk of nosocomial infections has not been shown to increase significantly with appropriate dosing; in fact, immunomodulation by GCs may improve bacterial clearance. Nevertheless, clinicians should remain vigilant for opportunistic infections, particularly invasive fungal infections, in high-risk populations such as those with COVID-19. Musculoskeletal effects, including ICU-acquired weakness, appear to result more from underlying disease and immobilization than from GCs themselves, especially at moderate doses. Neuropsychiatric and gastrointestinal complications are dose-dependent and generally reversible. The transient suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis underscores the importance of gradual tapering to prevent inflammatory rebound and adrenal insufficiency. Overall, contemporary data support the safety of GCs when used with precision, directed by patient severity and response to treatment, with careful tapering and monitoring. The incorporation of integrative strategies, such as micronutrient and probiotic supplementation, may enhance GC receptor function and reduce required doses, further improving outcomes. Recognizing and managing potential complications enables clinicians to harness the therapeutic potential of GCs in critical illness fully.},
}

Humans
*Critical Illness/therapy
*Glucocorticoids/adverse effects/administration & dosage/therapeutic use
Hyperglycemia/chemically induced
Intensive Care Units

@article {pmid40967602,
year = {2026},
author = {Dequin, PF and Confalonieri, M},
title = {Glucocorticoid Treatment in Community-Acquired Pneumonia.},
journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {66-76},
pmid = {40967602},
issn = {1098-9048},
mesh = {Humans ; *Community-Acquired Infections/drug therapy ; *Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Pneumonia/drug therapy ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Intensive Care Units ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; Community-Acquired Pneumonia ; },
abstract = {Despite a fairly large number of comparative trials (which are, however, very heterogeneous), the role of corticosteroids in the adjuvant treatment of community-acquired pneumonia remains controversial. Nevertheless, recent randomized trials with adequate power in intensive care unit patients, albeit with conflicting results, have contributed to clarifying our understanding of this issue. More accurate phenotyping of patients likely to benefit from corticosteroid treatment must now be performed. In COVID-19 pneumonia, their benefit is not in question. For certain specific pathogens, including viral pathogens, their indications must be refined. They are still not recommended for influenza. They appear generally safe for short-term use in select populations.},
}

Humans
*Community-Acquired Infections/drug therapy
*Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*Pneumonia/drug therapy
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Intensive Care Units
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Community-Acquired Pneumonia

@article {pmid40902632,
year = {2026},
author = {Poulain, C and Bouras, M and Roquilly, A},
title = {Glucocorticoid Treatment for Hospital-Acquired and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia.},
journal = {Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine},
volume = {47},
number = {1},
pages = {77-85},
doi = {10.1055/a-2694-4781},
pmid = {40902632},
issn = {1098-9048},
support = {HAP2 - agreement number 847782//HORIZON EUROPE European Innovation Council/ ; 847782//European Union/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use ; *Pneumonia, Ventilator-Associated/drug therapy ; *Healthcare-Associated Pneumonia/drug therapy ; COVID-19 ; Critical Illness ; *Cross Infection/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) remain among the most frequent complications in critically ill patients. Despite the implementation of modern preventive strategies and the widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, both the incidence and treatment failure rates remain high. However, no adjunctive therapy is currently recommended. Glucocorticoids have recently attracted renewed interest as potential immunomodulatory agents in this setting. By reducing excessive inflammation and promoting the resolution of the immune response, they may help limit lung injury and improve clinical outcomes. This hypothesis is supported by findings from related conditions such as community-acquired pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and severe COVID-19, where corticosteroids have demonstrated benefits in selected populations. However, evidence specific to HAP and VAP remains limited. A few randomized trials have evaluated corticosteroids for prevention, particularly in trauma patients, where findings suggest a potential benefit and highlight the relevance of this strategy in select populations. More recently, individualized approaches based on inflammatory biomarkers have shown promise in identifying patients who are more likely to benefit from corticosteroid therapy. Two randomized controlled trials, currently ongoing to evaluate their role as adjunctive treatment in established HAP and VAP, will help define the efficacy and tolerance of steroids. Given the heterogeneity of immune responses in critically ill patients, a "one-size-fits-all" approach is unlikely to be effective. Identifying inflammatory sub-phenotypes using clinical and biological markers (such as C-reactive protein or interleukin-6) may help guide a more personalized use of immunomodulatory therapies. Alterations in the lung microbiome could also influence host response and treatment efficacy. Altogether, corticosteroids represent a promising but still understudied adjunctive strategy for HAP and VAP. Future research should aim to refine patient selection and optimize treatment strategies within a precision medicine framework.},
}

Humans
*Glucocorticoids/therapeutic use
*Pneumonia, Ventilator-Associated/drug therapy
*Healthcare-Associated Pneumonia/drug therapy
COVID-19
Critical Illness
*Cross Infection/drug therapy

@article {pmid41683812,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahajan, S and Mahajan, S and Gusain, A},
title = {Interleukins in COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Immunopathogenesis, Therapeutic Perspectives and Vaccine-Induced Immune Responses.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27031391},
pmid = {41683812},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology/therapy/pathology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology/genetics ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *Interleukins/immunology/metabolism/antagonists & inhibitors ; },
abstract = {The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is characterized by profound immune dysregulation where interleukins play a central role in determining disease severity and response to interventions. This review summarizes the role of interleukins in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19, with particular emphasis on differences observed across major SARS-CoV-2 variants. Pro-inflammatory interleukins like IL-1β, IL-6, IL-2, IL-17 and IL-18 are critically involved in cytokine storm, hyperinflammation, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 contribute to immune regulation and resolution of inflammation. Elevated levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-8, IL-9, IL-16, IL-18 have been documented in the Delta variant as compared with the Omicron variant, with IL-6 being the most frequent interleukin reported to be increased across all SARS-CoV-2 variants relative to the ancestral Wuhan strain. Elevated IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 levels have been associated with Omicron sub-variants. The review encompasses interleukin-based therapeutic strategies, where several IL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors were studied across clinical trials, but only tocilizumab has shown some promise against severe COVID-19. IL-2, IL-6, IL-15 and IL-21 levels were positively correlated with IgG and neutralizing antibody activity after vaccination with longevity of post-vaccination immunity being determined by IL-2 and IL-7.},
}

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

@article {pmid41683516,
year = {2026},
author = {Leka, K and Mamede, L and Vandeberg, E and Garigliany, MM and Ledoux, A},
title = {Natural Alkaloids as Antiviral Agents Against RNA Viruses: A Comprehensive and Mechanistic Review.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31030539},
pmid = {41683516},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {40009257//Fund for Scientific Research/ ; 40021286//Fund for Scientific Research/ ; },
mesh = {*Antiviral Agents/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; *Alkaloids/pharmacology/chemistry/therapeutic use ; Humans ; *RNA Viruses/drug effects ; Animals ; Virus Replication/drug effects ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; RNA Virus Infections/drug therapy ; *Biological Products/pharmacology/chemistry ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses pose a persistent global threat due to their high mutation rates, zoonotic potential, and rapid adaptability. Emergence events have risen steadily, as demonstrated by major outbreaks caused by Influenza A, Ebola, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses, followed by the coronavirus epidemics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and culminating in the COVID-19 pandemic. These characteristics frequently compromise the durability of existing vaccines and antiviral therapies, highlighting the urgent need for new antiviral agents. Alkaloids, a structurally diverse class of nitrogen-containing natural compounds, have gained attention for their ability to interfere with multiple stages of the viral life cycle, including entry, replication, protein synthesis, and host immune modulation. To our knowledge, this review compiles all currently reported alkaloids with antiviral activity against RNA viruses and summarizes their proposed mechanisms of action, distinguishing evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies. Quaternary alkaloids are discussed separately because their permanent ionic charge enables distinctive interactions with membranes and host pathways. Although many findings are promising, clinical translation remains limited by incomplete mechanistic validation, scarce in vivo data, suboptimal bioavailability, narrow therapeutic windows, and inconsistent experimental methodologies. To advance the field, future research should prioritize RT-qPCR-based antiviral evaluation to accurately quantify viral replication, incorporate mechanistic assays to clarify modes of action, apply structure-activity relationship (SAR) approaches for rational optimization, and expand in vivo pharmacokinetic and efficacy studies to assess therapeutic feasibility. Overall, alkaloids represent a promising yet underdeveloped reservoir for next-generation antiviral discovery against rapidly evolving RNA viruses.},
}

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

@article {pmid41683451,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, J and Xu, Y and Yang, Y and Zhang, B and Chen, S and Li, Z and Zhu, H and Yang, H and Wang, H and Zhou, Y and Cao, P and Zhai, B and Gong, Y},
title = {Structural Basis and Inhibitor Development of SARS-CoV-2 Papain-like Protease.},
journal = {Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {31},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/molecules31030474},
pmid = {41683451},
issn = {1420-3049},
support = {KZ202210005001//R&D Program of Beijing Municipal Education Commission/ ; 242102311178//Science and technology project of Henan Province/ ; 252102520079//Henan Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Project/ ; },
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/enzymology/drug effects ; Humans ; *Coronavirus Papain-Like Proteases/antagonists & inhibitors/chemistry/metabolism ; *Antiviral Agents/chemistry/pharmacology ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *Protease Inhibitors/chemistry/pharmacology ; Ligands ; Binding Sites ; Protein Binding ; },
abstract = {Papain-like protease (PLpro), a crucial functional domain of the SARS-CoV-2 non-structural protein 3 (nsp3), plays a dual role in both hydrolyzing viral polyprotein precursors and modulating host immune responses. These critical functions position PLpro as a key target in the ongoing development of antiviral therapies for SARS-CoV-2. This review analyzes more than 100 PLpro-ligand co-crystal structures and summarizes the major binding modes between these ligands and PLpro. Most of these ligands bind to sites analogous to those targeted by the classical non-covalent inhibitor GRL0617, primarily involving the P3 and P4 subsites and the BL2 loop. Based on these structural insights, optimized inhibitors have expanded targeting beyond the canonical binding site to auxiliary regions such as the BL2 groove and the Val70 site, and in some cases toward the catalytic Cys111 buried within a narrow pocket. Certain ligands identified through various screening approaches bind to non-canonical or allosteric regions, such as the S1 and S2 sites or the zinc-finger domain, engaging PLpro through distinct interaction modes and thereby offering additional opportunities for PLpro inhibitor design. The review also discusses potential strategies for future PLpro inhibitor development informed by recent structural advances. Taken together, these structural and functional insights support ongoing efforts in the structure-guided design and optimization of PLpro inhibitors.},
}

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

@article {pmid41682807,
year = {2026},
author = {Carlini, F and Chiesa, AM and Verzina, M and Sassetti, C and Rigante, D and Esposito, S},
title = {Cutaneous Clues in Kawasaki Disease: Clinical Implications and Differential Diagnosis with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15031126},
pmid = {41682807},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) are pediatric inflammatory conditions with overlapping mucocutaneous features that may complicate early diagnosis. We performed a narrative review of the literature to characterize and compare cutaneous manifestations reported in children with KD and MIS-C and to assess their diagnostic relevance. Published studies describing dermatologic findings in patients aged 0-18 years were reviewed. The analysis revealed a broad heterogeneity of skin manifestations in both conditions, ranging from classic polymorphous rash and acral erythema to atypical presentations, including annular, psoriasiform, vesiculobullous, urticarial, and erythema nodosum-like lesions. Reactivation at Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccination sites and associated mucocutaneous findings, such as conjunctivitis and oral changes, emerged as supportive diagnostic clues, particularly for incomplete KD. Considerable overlap in cutaneous phenotypes between KD and MIS-C was observed, especially in patients with persistent fever and systemic inflammation, highlighting the risk of diagnostic delay. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing atypical dermatologic patterns as part of an integrated diagnostic approach, as delayed identification may increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Early recognition of cutaneous clues can support timely initiation of immunomodulatory therapy and improve clinical outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid41682696,
year = {2026},
author = {Grosu, IA and Dobrin, ME and Marginean, C and Esanu, IM and Melinte, OE and Stavarache, IE and Dumitrache-Rujinski, S and Cioroiu, IB and Crisan-Dabija, RA and Vicol, C and Trofor, AC},
title = {Integrated Approach of Hematological Parameters and Glutathione as Predictors of Pulmonary TB Evolution: A Comprehensive Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15031017},
pmid = {41682696},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {In recent decades, the burden of TB has been gradually declining; however, with the emergence of COVID-19 and ongoing political conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, the proper functioning of healthcare services and TB control programs has been jeopardized. Recently, research has emphasized the importance of hematological parameters associated with inflammation, which can be easily analyzed through routine blood tests. Combining these parameters may have predictive value for various diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis and even help monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Since there is no single hematological or inflammatory biomarker that provides precise and dynamic information about the success or failure of treatment, identifying individual markers or sets of biomarkers with higher sensitivity and specificity is essential. This is particularly important since sputum culture conversion at two months remains insufficiently sensitive and microscopy conversion has limited sensitivity and specificity in detecting treatment failure. Also, the analysis of the impact of the standard directly observed treatment, short-course regimen on pathogenic mechanisms also focuses on how it influences the interaction between inflammation and oxidative tissue degradation, by measuring plasma levels of glutathione. Utilizing a combination of hematological, inflammatory, and antioxidant biomarkers offers significant insights into systemic inflammatory responses in pulmonary tuberculosis patients, both before commencing treatment and during the entire duration of antituberculosis therapy. Combining different inflammatory parameters into a multiple biomarker can significantly enhance the accuracy of predicting prognosis and response to antibiotic chemotherapy. Identifying an optimal combination of biomarkers with predictive value is crucial for assessing treatment response and evaluating the effectiveness of anti-TB medication. Rather than developing or testing a composite prediction model, this review summarizes reported performance metrics from individual studies and highlights priorities for future prospective validation of integrated biomarker panels.},
}

@article {pmid41681438,
year = {2026},
author = {Ibrahim, YM and Liu, C and Yu, Y and Yang, L and Chen, Q and Ma, W and Werid, GM and Li, S and Luo, J and Gao, S and Zhang, S and Fu, L and Wang, Y},
title = {Swine Enteric Coronaviruses: An Updated Overview of Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Control.},
journal = {Animals : an open access journal from MDPI},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ani16030458},
pmid = {41681438},
issn = {2076-2615},
support = {(cstc2022ycjh-bgzxm0183 and 22509C) and (2024YFHZ0110)//this work was supported by grants from the National Center of Technology Innovation for Pigs (NCTIP-XD/B19); the Chongqing Talent plan "contract system" project (cstc2022ycjh-bgzxm0183 and 22509C); the Sichuan Provincial Regional Innovation Cooperation Pr/ ; },
abstract = {Swine enteric coronaviruses (SECoVs), including transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), and swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), are major enteric pathogens causing severe diarrhea, dehydration, high neonatal mortality, and substantial global economic losses. Rapid viral evolution and recombination continually generate antigenically diverse variants that limit cross-protection and undermine vaccine efficacy, particularly for PEDV genogroup II strains that now dominate worldwide circulation. This review synthesizes current knowledge on epidemiology, diagnostic innovations, and emerging vaccine platforms, with emphasis on advances since 2022. Recent progress includes molecular surveillance tools, rapid point-of-care diagnostics, and next-generation vaccine technologies such as mRNA-based and virus-like particle platforms. However, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding viral evolution dynamics, co-infection synergies, and zoonotic spillover potential, particularly following documented human infections with PDCoV. Effective long-term control requires integrated genomic surveillance, strengthened farm-level biosecurity, rationally designed multivalent vaccines targeting conserved epitopes, and harmonized international surveillance systems to reduce outbreak risk and enhance pandemic preparedness at the human-animal interface.},
}

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

@article {pmid41332121,
year = {2026},
author = {Gu, F and Chen, Z and Lu, Y and Chen, S},
title = {Short-Term Thrombosis Following Coronary Stent Implantation in a Patient With Myocardial Infarction and COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report and Literature Review.},
journal = {Catheterization and cardiovascular interventions : official journal of the Society for Cardiac Angiography & Interventions},
volume = {107},
number = {3},
pages = {693-699},
doi = {10.1002/ccd.70398},
pmid = {41332121},
issn = {1522-726X},
support = {//The authors received no specific funding for this work./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; *COVID-19/complications/diagnosis ; Middle Aged ; *Percutaneous Coronary Intervention/adverse effects/instrumentation ; *Drug-Eluting Stents ; *Coronary Thrombosis/etiology/therapy/diagnostic imaging ; *Non-ST Elevated Myocardial Infarction/therapy/complications/diagnostic imaging/surgery/diagnosis ; Fatal Outcome ; Thrombectomy ; Time Factors ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {In-stent thrombosis is a rare but devastating complication following percutaneous coronary intervention, and its risk may be significantly heightened by the pro-inflammatory and hypercoagulable state induced by COVID-19 infection. This case report details a 62-year-old male with acute non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction who underwent successful drug-eluting stent implantation, only to develop catastrophic in-stent thrombosis and cardiac rupture within one hour post-procedure, concurrent with a mild COVID-19 infection. Despite emergency thrombectomy and surgical intervention, the patient succumbed to refractory cardiogenic shock. This case, alongside a review of similar published reports, underscores the alarmingly rapid onset of stent thrombosis in COVID-19 patients and suggests that the viral infection acts as a potent precipitating factor. The pathophysiology likely involves immune-mediated endothelial injury, platelet hyperreactivity, and a systemic inflammatory cascade. The discussion highlights the critical need for heightened vigilance, consideration of intensified peri-procedural antithrombotic strategies (such as glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors), and the potential role of intravascular imaging in this high-risk patient population. This report concludes that managing acute coronary syndrome in the context of COVID-19 requires a personalized and aggressive approach to mitigate the elevated threat of early stent thrombosis.},
}

Humans
Male
*COVID-19/complications/diagnosis
Middle Aged
*Percutaneous Coronary Intervention/adverse effects/instrumentation
*Drug-Eluting Stents
*Coronary Thrombosis/etiology/therapy/diagnostic imaging
*Non-ST Elevated Myocardial Infarction/therapy/complications/diagnostic imaging/surgery/diagnosis
Fatal Outcome
Thrombectomy
Time Factors
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37522912,
year = {2023},
author = {Costa, UM},
title = {[Occupational Therapy Guideline for the management of sequelae of viral diseases with SARS-CoV-2 : Supplement to the S1 guidelines for the management of post-viral conditions exemplified by post-COVID-19].},
journal = {Wiener klinische Wochenschrift},
volume = {135},
number = {Suppl 4},
pages = {599-618},
pmid = {37522912},
issn = {1613-7671},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Occupational Therapy ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {Sequelae of viral disease with SARS-CoV-2 impact clients' biopsychosocial health, thus their daily life, with limitations resp. barriers in their occupational capacities and opportunities. Occupational therapists have numerous and, with constantly growing evidence, personalised therapeutic means, measures, and methods in any intervention phase relevant to these according health problems, supporting i. e. coping, occupational adaptation, quality of life and participatory re-shaping of (daily) life. Based on ongoing research findings and practice evidence, this document contains recommendations for occupational therapy intervention for clients with biopsychosocial health conditions post COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
*Occupational Therapy
Quality of Life