@article {pmid42739898,
year = {2026},
author = {Choudhury, S and Nawaar, N and Chowdhury, WR and Roy, P and Khan, AS and Ali, S and Zaki, RM and Raihan, T and Mishra, M and Rabbee, MF and Baek, KH},
title = {COVID-19-Associated Fungal Co-Infections: Pathogenesis, Diagnostics, Biomarkers, and Therapeutic Strategies.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42739898},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {PSAU/2026/R/1447//Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University/ ; KFU26//King Faisal University/ ; RS-2025-02223124//Rural Development Administration/ ; },
abstract = {From a health perspective, the 21st century has witnessed the emergence and global impact of several major viral diseases, most notably coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2, which has been associated with a substantial burden of secondary fungal infections. Patients suffering from COVID-19 illnesses frequently developed fungal co-infections, which can worsen clinical outcomes and complicate therapeutic efforts. Hospitalized individuals with viral infections are particularly susceptible to invasive fungal pathogens, including Aspergillus, Candida, and Mucorales species. The co-pathogenesis between respiratory virus and fungi is complex, involving dynamic interactions among the pathogens and the host immune system. Opportunistic fungal infections were found to be more prevalent in COVID-19-infected individuals, who require mechanical ventilation, have diabetes, or exhibit neutropenia. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of fungal co-infections associated with COVID-19 disease, with a focus on their pathogenesis, biomarkers, diagnostic approaches, and potential treatment strategies. Overall, the available evidence indicates that viral-induced immune dysregulation, epithelial barrier damage, and clinical risk factors contribute to the development and severity of fungal co-infections in COVID-19 patients. Early recognition using reliable biomarkers and standardized diagnostic approaches, together with timely and pathogen-directed antifungal therapy, are essential for improving clinical outcomes.},
}

@article {pmid42741467,
year = {2026},
author = {Tasnim, S and Shammy, SS and Haider, N and Uddin, MJ},
title = {Epidemiology of Human Metapneumovirus Infection-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {9},
number = {9},
pages = {e73234},
pmid = {42741467},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a globally circulating respiratory pathogen. The objective of this systematic review is to evaluate the prevalence, case fatality rate, age-related severity, and seasonality of hMPV in the group of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs) and Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP).

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of articles on hMPV published from January 2001 to June 2025. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed and ScienceDirect for eligible articles using strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Random-effects meta-analysis was performed to estimate pooled prevalence, and subgroup analyses were conducted by study group, geographic region, COVID-19 period, and age group.

RESULTS: One hundred one studies met the inclusion criteria, of which 96 contributed to the meta-analysis. The pooled global prevalence of hMPV was 6% (95% CI: 5%-7%). Prevalence estimates were highest in patients with respiratory tract infections (RTIs) patients (6%) and in South America (10%). Age-stratified analysis showed a high prevalence in children under 5 years (7%). Seroprevalence studies demonstrated low hMPV antibody prevalence in young children less than 1 year. The case fatality rate ranged from 2.5% in elderly populations to 4.4% in severe pediatric cases. hMPV mainly affects children under 2 years, with a smaller burden in older adults. Seasonal peaks were typically observed in late winter to early spring.

CONCLUSION: hMPV remains an important cause of respiratory disease worldwide, with a disproportionate burden on children. The significant heterogeneity across studies and evidence of publication bias highlight the need for standardized surveillance.},
}

@article {pmid42741759,
year = {2026},
author = {Effraimidis, G and Kasotas, A and Markantes, GK and Karapanou, O and Saltiki, K and Michalaki, M},
title = {How to manage subacute thyroiditis.},
journal = {Drugs in context},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42741759},
issn = {1745-1981},
abstract = {Subacute thyroiditis (SAT) is a self-limited inflammatory thyroid disorder classically characterized by anterior neck pain, an enlarged tender thyroid, fever, fatigue, malaise, elevated inflammatory markers and a triphasic course from thyrotoxicosis through hypothyroidism to recovery. It can cause substantial morbidity and remains a frequent diagnostic challenge because it must be distinguished from acute suppurative thyroiditis, Graves' disease, painless thyroiditis, haemorrhage into a nodule and, rarely, malignant 'pseudothyroiditis' (rapidly growing carcinoma). In recent years, the recognized spectrum of triggers has expanded beyond the classical post-viral setting to include SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination. This review summarizes current understanding of SAT pathogenesis, including viral and post-viral mechanisms, and HLA-linked susceptibility. We outline the typical and variant clinical phenotypes, emphasising painful classical SAT, painless presentations, pregnancy-associated disease and therapy-related destructive thyroiditis. We then present a practical diagnostic framework based on clinical features, inflammatory markers, thyroid function tests, radionuclide imaging, ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration, when indicated. Management is discussed in a stepwise fashion, including NSAIDs and glucocorticoids for pain and inflammation, β-blockers for symptomatic thyrotoxicosis, selective levothyroxine replacement during the hypothyroid phase, and structured follow-up to detect recurrence and permanent hypothyroidism. Special attention is given to pregnancy and SARS-CoV-2-related SAT cases. Finally, we review long-term outcomes, recurrence risk and future research priorities. The aim is to provide a concise, clinically oriented guide to the contemporary management of SAT and to support rational, evidence-informed decision-making in routine endocrine practice.},
}

@article {pmid42741870,
year = {2026},
author = {Feige, J and Hauer, L and Sellner, J},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 management strategies in B-Cell-depleted people with multiple sclerosis: from prevention to antiviral treatment.},
journal = {Expert review of clinical immunology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {1-19},
doi = {10.1080/1744666X.2026.2731966},
pmid = {42741870},
issn = {1744-8409},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a leading cause of neurological disability in young adults, necessitating early high-efficacy disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Monoclonal antibodies targeting the CD20 antigen are a cornerstone of effective disease control, but depletion of peripheral B-cells blunts the humoral immune response. This review synthesizes current evidence on COVID-19 risk, prevention and treatment in anti-CD20-treated people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).

AREAS COVERED: A PubMed literature search through June 2026 identified relevant studies on anti-CD20 therapies and COVID-19 in pwMS. While MS itself does not increase COVID-19 susceptibility, anti-CD20-induced immunosuppression predisposes patients to severe COVID-19 outcomes and protracted or relapsing infections. Furthermore, B-cell depletion severely impairs vaccine efficacy, leaving patients with markedly diminished or absent neutralizing antibody responses.

EXPERT OPINION: To mitigate COVID-19 risks, future strategies should focus on three pillars. First, strategic switching among anti-CD20 antibodies to improve vaccine efficacy. Second, variant-targeted monoclonal antibodies for pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis in patients lacking robust humoral responses. Finally, early administration of direct-acting small-molecule antivirals to halt viral replication before hyperinflammation. Moving forward, integrating real-world data, identifying immunogenetic risk biomarkers, and evaluating long-term combinations of vaccine-passive immunizations will help safely sustain high-efficacy MS treatments.},
}

@article {pmid42743107,
year = {2026},
author = {Valença-Pereira, F and Johnson, B and DeGregori, J and Rincon, M},
title = {Does acute inflammation triggered by infection promote cancer progression?.},
journal = {PLoS biology},
volume = {24},
number = {9},
pages = {e3003962},
pmid = {42743107},
issn = {1545-7885},
mesh = {Humans ; *Inflammation/immunology/virology/pathology/complications ; *Neoplasms/immunology/pathology/virology ; Disease Progression ; Animals ; COVID-19 ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Acute Disease ; Tumor Microenvironment/immunology ; *Coronavirus Infections/complications/immunology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/complications/immunology ; Betacoronavirus ; },
abstract = {Chronic infections are associated with cancer incidence and progression in human epidemiological data, but less is known about how such infections might promote cancer progression. Recent data implicate acute infection with common respiratory viruses, such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2, in cancer progression, providing evidence that infection-driven inflammation can promote tumor expansion and dissemination in experimental systems. The resulting acute inflammatory cascade and dynamic immune cell reprogramming can rapidly remodel the tissue microenvironment to favor cancer cell survival, growth, and evasion of immune elimination. However, acute infections can also elicit anti-tumor immune responses. Defining how infections differentially skew immune programs to promote or restrain cancer progression will therefore be essential for developing future strategies to target this disease.},
}

Humans
*Inflammation/immunology/virology/pathology/complications
*Neoplasms/immunology/pathology/virology
Disease Progression
Animals
COVID-19
SARS-CoV-2
Acute Disease
Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
*Coronavirus Infections/complications/immunology
*Pneumonia, Viral/complications/immunology
Betacoronavirus

@article {pmid42744113,
year = {2026},
author = {Persoff, J and Devereaux, A and Maves, R and Mehta, AB and Burry, L and Chakravarti, A and Levy, D and Feldman, HJ and Baez, AA and Felzer, JR and Baum, KD and Dries, DJ and Mukherjee, V and Persson, D and Conrad, TS and Hossain, T and Ghazipura, M and Anesi, GL and Ornoff, D and Freels, N and Sprung, CL and Dichter, JR},
title = {Social Media and Crisis Care Principles During Pandemics and Disasters: A Consensus Report From a Subgroup of the Task Force for Mass Critical Care.},
journal = {Chest},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.chest.2026.08.049},
pmid = {42744113},
issn = {1931-3543},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Effective communication and coordination are fundamental determinants of the healthcare system's performance during disasters. Failures in these domains during COVID-19 contributed to disrupted care delivery, strained staff, resource shortages, and adverse patient outcomes.

RESEARCH QUESTION: Drawing on pandemic lessons, the Task Force for Mass Critical Care (TFMCC) conducted a comprehensive assessment of peer-reviewed literature, gray sources, and firsthand experience using a modified Delphi process to develop consensus-based suggestions to strengthen communication strategies and operational coordination.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Methodological frameworks from the World Health Organization and Guidelines International Network-McMaster Guideline Development Checklist for rapid guidelines were merged to establish a consensus development process, integrating evidence synthesized from the literature with expert opinions. The previously described process used a three-round modified Delphi approach to synthesize published evidence, collect anecdotal evidence, and develop suggestions.

RESULTS: A total of 147 evidence statements were evaluated, resulting in 22 suggestions substantiated by other supporting literature and anecdotal experiences. The TFMCC identified transparent, timely, and scientifically grounded public communication with proactive engagement through social media as indispensable for information dissemination and misinformation mitigation. Planning and coordination across federal, state, regional, and hospital systems are critical for effective disaster response, which depends on standardized crisis care frameworks, Medical Operations Coordination Centers, and interoperable health information systems enabling real-time situational awareness. Important findings include community engagement, equitable resource allocation, accessible communication strategies, and processes to avoid restrictive visitation policies that can impede surrogate decision-making. Finally, integrating emergency department expertise into hospital incident command and strengthening the "last mile" of supply-chain distribution are necessary to sustain clinical operations.

INTERPRETATION: Communication and coordination are core operational priorities during disaster response, emphasizing their impact on patient outcomes, system performance, and public trust. Communication and coordination systems require sustained investments in interorganizational relationships and public engagement.},
}

@article {pmid42744165,
year = {2026},
author = {Aashaq, S and Rakhshan, R and Rafiq, A and Ali, M and Beigh, MA},
title = {Multifaceted signaling of the cell surface receptor neuropilin-1 (NRP1): pathophysiological roles and therapeutic potential.},
journal = {Gene},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {150400},
doi = {10.1016/j.gene.2026.150400},
pmid = {42744165},
issn = {1879-0038},
abstract = {Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) is a developmentally conserved cell surface receptor that functionally acts to bind various ligands like class 3 semaphorins and several members of the VEGF family to engage in different signaling pathways that control cell migration and motility. Due to its widespread expression, NRP1 is implicated in immune function, axonal guidance, viral entry, tumor progression and angiogenesis. NRP1 is dysregulated across multiple cancer types and promotes tumor progression in a context-dependent manner in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment, including endothelial, stromal, and immune-cell compartments. NRP1 is also involved in different autoimmune disorders, anosmia, and cardiovascular disorders. Phage display studies revealed that peptides containing C-terminal CendR motifs engage NRP1 for tissue penetration. Apart from cell-penetrating peptides, monoclonal antibodies against NRP1 also present a promising target for cancer therapeutics. Importantly, NRP1 in SARS-CoV-2 infection act as an auxiliary host factor, and furin cleavage of the viral spike protein exposes a C-terminal CendR motif that can bind NRP1, thereby facilitating viral entry. However, NRP1 is not an independent receptor comparable to ACE2, thus, NRP1-targeted antiviral strategies need further investigations. Given the above, the review provides comprehensive narrative of different signaling mechanisms of NRP1 in different diseases and how this cell surface receptor can be utilized in various therapeutic approaches to combat these diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42744480,
year = {2026},
author = {Lehmann, K and Wang, YF and Mamri, A and Brown, TG and Vanlaar, W and Batomen, B and Ouimet, MC and Nazif-Munoz, JI},
title = {Enhancing crisis resilience for future emergencies: A rapid review of road safety outcomes and reported measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.},
journal = {Journal of safety research},
volume = {98},
number = {},
pages = {265-275},
doi = {10.1016/j.jsr.2026.07.007},
pmid = {42744480},
issn = {1879-1247},
mesh = {Humans ; *Accidents, Traffic/prevention & control/statistics & numerical data ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Emergencies ; Pandemics ; *Safety ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted mobility patterns and road usage, raising significant road safety concerns. It remains unclear whether governments worldwide implemented effective road safety measures (RSMs) to address the resulting fluctuations in traffic collisions, injuries, and fatalities. This study aims to: (a) identify global RSMs implemented, discussed or proposed during the pandemic to mitigate traffic-related incidents, and (b) explore their relevance, precision, and applicability in future crises.

METHODS: A systematic search of public health, transportation, and multidisciplinary databases (PubMed and Scopus) was conducted for studies published between 2019 and the present. This rapid review followed PRISMA and Cochrane Collaboration rapid review guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420250599564). Inclusion criteria encompassed observational and quasi-experimental studies examining road safety measures implemented or proposed during the COVID-19 pandemic to address traffic-related incidents. Study selection and data extraction were conducted systematically, and findings were synthesized narratively.

RESULTS: Twenty-nine studies (published between 2020 and 2024) were included in the review. Findings highlight five key research clusters: (1) changes in crash frequency and severity, (2) risky driving behaviors, (3) regional variation in RSMs, (4) innovative measurement methods, and (5) crisis-responsive interventions. RSMs identified during the pandemic include speed control, traffic flow management, and protection of vulnerable road users, with a strong focus on data-driven approaches. However, some measures, especially behavioral interventions, remain underdeveloped and need further evaluation.

CONCLUSION: This review highlights the need for a comprehensive, crisis-resilient road safety approach integrating enforcement, behavioral interventions, and infrastructure improvements. This approach should not only address immediate crises but also support long-term road safety enhancements and preparedness for future public health emergencies.},
}

Humans
*Accidents, Traffic/prevention & control/statistics & numerical data
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Emergencies
Pandemics
*Safety

@article {pmid42745337,
year = {2026},
author = {Rossanese, A and Tomasi, A},
title = {Travel vaccination in senior travelers: current evidence, challenges, and prevention.},
journal = {Tropical diseases, travel medicine and vaccines},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42745337},
issn = {2055-0936},
abstract = {The substantial number of older adults undertaking international travel has increased the relevance of pre-travel prevention in this population. However, vaccination strategies in this group require consideration of immune aging, baseline status, medication use, and travel-related exposure. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on vaccination in senior travelers, with particular attention to the vaccines most relevant to this population, the differences in the strength of evidence across vaccines, and the clinical factors that should guide pre-travel decision-making. Routine vaccines, including influenza, COVID-19, pneumococcal, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes zoster, and tetanus-diphtheria vaccines, constitute an essential part of pre-travel assessment, whereas travel-specific vaccines, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, tick-borne encephalitis, and cholera, should be considered according to the destination, itinerary, expected exposure, and time before departure. Yellow fever vaccination represents a particular clinical challenge because advancing age is associated with a greater risk of serious vaccine-associated adverse events, making individualized risk‒benefit assessment essential. Recently introduced dengue and chikungunya vaccines should also be considered on an individualized basis, taking into account exposure risk, potential benefits, comorbidities, and the current limitations of the available evidence. The review also highlights the importance of integrating vaccination with non-vaccine preventive strategies, including food and water precautions, vector avoidance, and hygiene measures. Although the evidence base has expanded, important uncertainties remain, particularly because age-specific data are limited and frail older adults remain underrepresented in clinical studies. Overall, pre-travel care for senior travelers should be comprehensive, exposure-based, and individualized according to the clinical profile and travel characteristics of each traveler.},
}

@article {pmid42745812,
year = {2026},
author = {Tieu, KDB and Agyapong-Opoku, F and Agyapong, B},
title = {The use of chatbots as interventions for mental health conditions: scoping review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.},
journal = {Frontiers in digital health},
volume = {8},
number = {},
pages = {1789599},
pmid = {42745812},
issn = {2673-253X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of mental health chatbots received potential attention as a means of addressing the increase in demand for mental healthcare, which has become inaccessible due to a shortage of healthcare workers and lockdown. Even after the pandemic, chatbot versatility holds the potential to address the ongoing limited accessibility of mental healthcare due to a shortage of professionals, geographical challenges, cost, or stigma.

OBJECTIVE: This review examines the scope and nature of the systematic review and meta-analysis evidence on chatbot interventions for mental health.

METHOD: This scoping review follows Arksey and O'Malley's five-step guide and was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The following databases were used to conduct all systematic literature searches: PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria include systematic reviews and meta-analyses, written in English, that focus on the use of chatbots as an intervention for mental conditions, with all primary articles being relevant. A total of 14 articles were relevant and included in the data extraction and analysis.

RESULTS: It was found that although current review-level evidence suggests potential short-term benefits, there was a discrepancy regarding the specific conditions under which chatbots are effective. Moreover, the use of chatbots for symptom improvement is still inconclusive, since there are issues with important aspects such as unclear risk of bias, lack of longitudinal studies, and lack of comparison with traditional therapy.

CONCLUSION: There is potential for chatbot implementation as an intervention for mental conditions. However, this is still at its early stages of development and requires more research to improve communication quality and ensure safety, which is paramount when communicating with vulnerable patients. The findings of the review provide a useful foundation for informing clinical practice, policy, and future research.},
}

@article {pmid42746222,
year = {2026},
author = {Mundlia, P and Singh, SP and Pothal, P and Thakur, T and Kathuria, R and Maurya, S and Sharma, A and Goel, H and Pandey, A and Ranawat, P and Singh, G and Barnwal, RP},
title = {Target, silence, replace: a review on RNA-based drugs in modern medicine.},
journal = {Frontiers in cell and developmental biology},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1879681},
pmid = {42746222},
issn = {2296-634X},
abstract = {RNA therapies have evolved into a revolutionary approach in contemporary medicine for treating various diseases by directly targeting RNA molecules engaged in disease pathogenesis. These therapeutic agents regulate biological processes through diverse mechanisms, including modulation of RNA function and gene expression. Medical applications of RNA are greatly enhanced by its structure, adaptability, and capacity for targeted binding. Among these traits is its ability to bind to certain molecules unique to those chemicals. RNA-based treatments have emerged from advancements in the production, modification, and cellular transport of RNA molecules. Several RNA drugs have been approved whereas some are under trial for few diseases. RNA therapeutics can function at the level of RNAs, DNAs and proteins. The evolution of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 epidemic emphasizes the exciting potential of RNA therapies in the treatment of diseases. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the several forms of RNA therapies, including small-interfering RNA (siRNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), and antisense-oligonucleotides (ASOs), together with information on their action mechanisms and delivery strategies that improve cellular absorption and shield RNA molecules from degradation. Further, CRISPR-based editing of the genome can be employed for modification of target RNA sequences for various disorders. Development of RNA aptamers have also been identified as pivotal RNA-therapeutic candidate. Additionally, we have explained mechanistic details and examples of drugs approved for RNA therapy. Emphasizing their potential to enhance patient outcomes and fulfil unmet medical requirements, we also highlight the clinical development of RNA therapies in treating cancer and other infectious diseases.},
}

@article {pmid42748865,
year = {2026},
author = {Cho, E and Lee, S and Yang, M and Cho, J and Hwang, S and Kim, E},
title = {Controlling respiratory infections in long-term care facilities: A systematic review.},
journal = {International journal of nursing studies},
volume = {184},
number = {},
pages = {105684},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2026.105684},
pmid = {42748865},
issn = {1873-491X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Residents of long-term care facilities are vulnerable to respiratory infections, yet infection prevention and control strategies for these settings remain limited. While extensive infection control guidelines for hospitals are well established, few address long-term care facilities, where prevention efforts have largely prioritized pharmacological over non-pharmacological measures. Non-pharmacological strategies are therefore essential to prevent respiratory infection transmission, particularly during early outbreak stages or in settings where pathogen-specific treatments are limited, such as long-term care facilities.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically review and synthesize non-pharmacological interventions used to prevent and control respiratory infections in long-term care facilities.

INFORMATION SOURCES: Experimental and quasi-experimental studies sourced from PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases.

METHODS: Systematic search for studies published in English between January 2008 and October 2025 was conducted. Eligible studies included those that implemented non-pharmacological interventions to prevent and control respiratory infections in long-term care facilities. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool for Randomized control trials and the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions tool. Study characteristics and findings were extracted, and the World Health Organization's Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework was applied for analysis to classify interventions and identify evidence gaps across its core components. For data synthesis, a narrative synthesis with vote counting was performed across each component of the framework.

RESULTS: Of the 12,203 retrieved studies, 18 met the inclusion criteria. Nine studies broadly examined respiratory tract infections overall, whereas five focused exclusively on coronavirus disease. Based on the framework, interventions related to provision of materials and equipment necessary for infection control, built environments, education, and multimodal strategies were most frequently studied, whereas those addressing guidelines, surveillance methods, and workload, staffing, and bed occupancy received limited attention. Multimodal strategies combining environmental cleaning and education showed the most positive impact, while monitoring and feedback showed promising effectiveness in reducing the incidence of infection. Notably, no studies have addressed all eight components of the framework or fully accounted for the unique characteristics and needs of long-term care facilities.

CONCLUSIONS: The included studies had limited methodological quality and varied widely in study design, interventions, and outcome measures. However, by employing a globally recognized framework, this study provides a foundation for strengthening infection prevention and control measures in long-term care facilities and outlines key areas for future research. These findings emphasize the need for integrated, system-level multimodal strategies tailored to long-term care facilities to effectively control respiratory infections in vulnerable populations.

REGISTRATION: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42024544560, registered 08/05/2024.},
}

@article {pmid42749151,
year = {2026},
author = {Bloch, EM and Drews, SJ and Jacobs, JW},
title = {Infectious risks of transfusion: a 10-year look back and perspectives.},
journal = {Transfusion clinique et biologique : journal de la Societe francaise de transfusion sanguine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.tracli.2026.09.004},
pmid = {42749151},
issn = {1953-8022},
abstract = {Almost 50 years following the advent -and ensuing tragedy- of transfusion-transmitted HIV, infectious diseases continue to shape blood transfusion practice and policy. Over the past decade alone, a myriad of changes span innovation in donor selection, testing and pathogen reduction, to emergence and re-emergence pathogens that have required evaluation and, in some cases, active intervention. Major developments include refined bacterial testing, novel findings on cold storage of platelets along with the expanded use of pathogen reduction to address the risk of bacterial contamination. Notable pathogens include Zika virus, Plasmodium (malaria), Babesia (babesiosis) and SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), the latter spurring a historic pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 highlighted the potential for emerging infectious diseases to impact the blood supply, independent of whether transfusion transmissible. The pandemic afforded new insight into convalescent plasma and how passive immunotherapy can be used to treat infectious diseases. Other favorable developments include a transition to individualized risk assessment and the relaxation of longstanding donor deferral policies (e.g. variant Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease), which have helped to alleviate the transfusion deficit. Progress in artificial intelligence and machine learning has yielded novel tools for surveillance and horizon scanning that enable early recognition of threats and opportunities for transfusion services to contend with infectious diseases. Nonetheless, many of the favorable developments do not extend to low and low-middle income countries, where replacement donation, suboptimal laboratory-based screening with limited molecular testing, and near-absent post-transfusion surveillance, continue to contribute to transfusion transmitted infection. We reflect on the impact of infectious diseases on transfusion services over the last ten years (2016-2026).},
}

@article {pmid42749230,
year = {2026},
author = {He, R and Wang, J and Lin, M and Su, Y and Li, Z and Dong, W and Zhang, D and Yu, X},
title = {RNF5: an emerging therapeutic target for modulating immunity and metabolism.},
journal = {Biochemical pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {118481},
doi = {10.1016/j.bcp.2026.118481},
pmid = {42749230},
issn = {1873-2968},
abstract = {Ring finger protein 5 (RNF5), a membrane-associated RING-type E3 ubiquitin ligase, serves as a critical regulator of cellular homeostasis by controlling protein stability, metabolic adaptation, and immune signaling. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted functions of RNF5, with particular emphasis on its context-dependent roles in cancer progression, antiviral immunity, and non-neoplastic diseases. In cancer, RNF5 exhibits highly context-dependent and sometimes paradoxical functions that are influenced by cellular environments, disease stages, and substrate availability. RNF5 regulates tumor-associated metabolic reprogramming by targeting glutamine transporters and key regulators of lipid metabolism. Moreover, through interactions with autophagy-related proteins and Ephrin receptors, RNF5 modulates tumor growth, therapeutic resistance, and antitumor immune responses. These findings highlight RNF5 as a complex regulator of tumor biology with both oncogenic and tumor-suppressive potential. During viral infections, RNF5 demonstrates dual regulatory activities in host-pathogen interactions. On one hand, RNF5 can suppress antiviral innate immune signaling by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of key immune adaptors, including STING and MAVS. On the other hand, RNF5 may restrict viral replication by directly targeting viral components, such as the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein and foot-and-mouth disease virus VP1, for ubiquitination and degradation. Thus, RNF5 functions as a versatile modulator of antiviral defense, with effects determined by the specific viral context and host signaling landscape. Beyond cancer and viral infection, emerging evidence implicates RNF5 in a variety of non-neoplastic disorders. RNF5 contributes to protein quality control in neurodegenerative diseases by facilitating the clearance of pathological tau through the ERAD pathway. In addition, genetic inhibition of RNF5 ameliorates intestinal pathological phenotypes in a mouse model of cystic fibrosis, while RNF5 has also been associated with hepatic and cardiovascular injury responses through regulation of cellular stress pathways. From a therapeutic perspective, RNF5-targeting strategies, including small-molecule inhibitors and pathway modulators, have emerged as potential approaches for manipulating RNF5-associated biological processes. However, substantial challenges remain, including achieving target specificity, understanding the context-dependent consequences of RNF5 modulation, minimizing potential disruptions to proteostasis and innate immune regulation, and developing clinically feasible therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes the complex regulatory network governed by RNF5 and discusses future opportunities and challenges in translating mechanistic insights into therapeutic applications while carefully considering potential risks associated with RNF5 targeting.},
}

@article {pmid42749398,
year = {2026},
author = {Wehbe, I and Tlili, A},
title = {mRNA-based therapeutics in lung Cancer: Mechanisms, applications, and translational challenges.},
journal = {Journal, genetic engineering & biotechnology},
volume = {24},
number = {3},
pages = {100717},
doi = {10.1016/j.jgeb.2026.100717},
pmid = {42749398},
issn = {2090-5920},
abstract = {Lung cancer remains one of the most prevalent and lethal malignancies worldwide owing to late diagnosis, molecular heterogeneity, and development of therapeutic resistance. Recent global cancer statistics indicate that it accounts for approximately 2.5 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths annually. The rise of messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has become a highly effective approach in the fight against infectious diseases, particularly highlighted by its successful use in COVID-19 vaccines. Accordingly, mRNA-based therapeutics have emerged as a versatile and adaptable approach with a high potential to address the limitations of conventional cancer treatments. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available cancer treatments and their limitations, summarize the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in lung cancer progression, and introduce the mRNA-based approach and its application in lung cancer, including mRNA vaccines, targeted protein therapy, immune-modulating therapy, gene editing, and cellular reprogramming approaches. Furthermore, we discuss the main mechanisms underlying mRNA-based therapies, address current applications, and evaluate approaches to overcome the limitations and challenges associated with mRNA-based therapies. Overall, mRNA-based therapy represents a flexible and rapidly evolving approach that, with further research and development, will reshape precision treatment of lung cancer.},
}

@article {pmid41320299,
year = {2026},
author = {Inouye, S},
title = {Hypothesis: Transmission of COVID-19 through the Air from Asymptomatic Individuals by Speaking.},
journal = {Japanese journal of infectious diseases},
volume = {79},
number = {5},
pages = {218-221},
doi = {10.7883/yoken.JJID.2025.169},
pmid = {41320299},
issn = {1884-2836},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/transmission ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; Aerosols ; *Asymptomatic Infections/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Aerosols and Droplets/virology ; *Speech ; *Coronavirus Infections/transmission/epidemiology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/transmission/epidemiology ; Betacoronavirus ; Air Microbiology ; },
abstract = {COVID-19 mortality seems to be higher in high-income, hygienic countries, but this is contrary to conventional communicable diseases, which usually occur in low-income countries. Another characteristic of COVID-19 is that a proportion of infected individuals had no symptoms but transmitted the virus to others. In this paper, the author proposes a hypothesis that infected but asymptomatic individuals produce two kinds of infectious respiratory particles by speaking: large droplets and small aerosols. The large droplets are produced from the saliva by pronouncing a plosive, /p/ or /t/, whereas the small aerosols are produced from the laryngeal secretion by the vibration of vocal cords during the voicing of vowels. The heavy droplets collide with other people's faces in conversation, resulting in droplet infection. In contrast, the lighter aerosols float in the air, accumulate inside a non-ventilated room after prolonged conversation, and cause airborne infection in other people in the same room. Then, the author discusses the global epidemiology of COVID-19, which may have depended on 1) climate and housing structure, 2) cultural behaviors, and 3) languages among different countries.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/transmission
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
Aerosols
*Asymptomatic Infections/epidemiology
*Respiratory Aerosols and Droplets/virology
*Speech
*Coronavirus Infections/transmission/epidemiology
*Pneumonia, Viral/transmission/epidemiology
Betacoronavirus
Air Microbiology

@article {pmid42275568,
year = {2026},
author = {Chang, E and Mostafa, J},
title = {Use of SNOMED CT, 2020-2025: literature review.},
journal = {Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association : JAMIA},
volume = {33},
number = {9},
pages = {1798-1810},
doi = {10.1093/jamia/ocag094},
pmid = {42275568},
issn = {1527-974X},
mesh = {*Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine ; Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Artificial Intelligence ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To examine the evolving role and application of SNOMED CT (SCT) during 2020-2025, a period marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and accelerated adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We searched PubMed and Embase for articles published from October 2020 to June 2025. Included articles were classified into focus categories by implementation maturity (Theoretical, Predevelopment, Implementation, Evaluation/Commodity, and Non-operational) and usage categories. We compared trends with our previous review covering January 2015-September 2020.

RESULTS: Following exclusion criteria, 651 articles were included for final review. The United States (n = 188) and United Kingdom (n = 92) were the largest contributors. COVID-19 emerged as the second most-investigated domain. The 2020-2025 period witnessed a dramatic shift toward mature implementation stages: Implementation (26.4%) and Evaluation/Commodity (32.0%) categories expanded, while Theoretical and Predevelopment categories decreased. SCT was increasingly used for knowledge graph construction, machine learning model validation, and patient data retrieval from registries. The most prominent use case involved retrieving patient data from national and commercial registries (n = 186).

DISCUSSION: SCT's role evolved from a clinical terminology to a machine-interpretable biomedical knowledge base, supporting explainable AI. However, coding consistency remains challenging, and evidence demonstrating improved patient outcomes is lacking.

CONCLUSION: SCT use has matured significantly, with widespread implementation in data repositories and emerging applications in AI. Future research must demonstrate clinical and operational benefits to ensure continued adoption.},
}

*Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine
Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Artificial Intelligence

@article {pmid42734220,
year = {2026},
author = {Ammar, IM and Panja, SK and Geng, J},
title = {FRET-based nanoprobes for nucleic acid sensing and disease diagnosis: materials, probe architectures, and analytical trends.},
journal = {Journal of materials chemistry. B},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1039/d6tb01546h},
pmid = {42734220},
issn = {2050-7518},
abstract = {Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) translates nanometre-scale changes in donor-acceptor separation into ratiometric fluorescence signals, enabling homogeneous and isothermal detection of nucleic acid biomarkers. In this review, we critically survey FRET-based nanoprobes for nucleic acid sensing and disease diagnosis, spanning organic dyes and cationic conjugated polymers to metallic nanoparticles, quantum dots, upconversion nanoparticles, carbon nanostructures, MXenes and polymeric nanoantennae. We organise probe designs by architectures, including sandwich hybridisation, disassembly hairpins, molecular beacons, dynamic junction sensors and enzyme-free DNA circuits, and analyse how these platforms achieve attomolar limits of detection, single-nucleotide discrimination and multiplexing in complex matrices. Representative case studies highlight applications in viral (e.g. SARS-CoV-2), bacterial and fungal pathogens, circulating cancer-related miRNAs and mRNAs, and neurodegenerative disease markers, as well as integration of FRET readouts with PCR and isothermal amplification workflows. We then compare FRET nanoprobes with established nucleic-acid assays in terms of analytical figures of merit, instrumentation, and compatibility with point-of-care (POC) formats. Remaining challenges, including photobleaching, spectral crowding, matrix autofluorescence, nanocarrier toxicity, and inter-laboratory reproducibility, are discussed in the context of emerging solutions such as near-infrared and lifetime-based FRET, CRISPR-coupled assays, DNA-origami nanoantennas, and microfluidic or smartphone-enabled devices. Finally, we outline key trends that could drive translation of FRET-based nucleic acid nanoprobes from proof-of-concept demonstrations to clinically actionable diagnostics.},
}

@article {pmid42736748,
year = {2026},
author = {Dirican, N and Yardibi, F},
title = {Scientific research dynamics on community-acquired pneumonia: Bibliometric analysis and future perspectives.},
journal = {Medicine},
volume = {105},
number = {37},
pages = {e50602},
pmid = {42736748},
issn = {1536-5964},
mesh = {Humans ; *Bibliometrics ; *Biomedical Research/trends ; *Community-Acquired Pneumonia/epidemiology ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and hospitalization worldwide. This study aimed to provide physicians and researchers with a comprehensive overview of the most influential publications and research trends in CAP.

METHODS: Research articles and reviews on CAP published in English and indexed in the Web of Science from 1978 to 2023 were analyzed. Network visualization and comprehensive bibliometric analyses of publication output, countries, journals, authors, cited references, and keywords were performed using CiteSpace and VOSviewer software.

RESULTS: A total of 4141 publications, including 3665 original research articles and 476 reviews, were included in the analysis. Publication output increased after 1991 and showed an overall upward trend, particularly after 2000. The United States, Spain, and China were the most productive countries. Chest published the most articles, whereas Clinical Infectious Diseases received the highest number of citations. Torres A was the most prolific author, whereas Fine MJ was the most cited. The most cited clinical studies published in the past 5 years focused on COVID-19, severe CAP (sCAP), and corticosteroid therapy. Co-citation analysis identified sCAP, healthcare-associated pneumonia, prospective cohort studies, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing as active research clusters. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified sCAP as the largest and most prominent cluster, whereas the other current clusters included atypical pathogens, antibiotic resistance, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and β-lactam monotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS: This bibliometric analysis highlights the evolving research landscape of CAP and suggests that future research will increasingly focus on sCAP and its treatment, the identification of rare or emerging pathogens, rapid diagnostic technologies, appropriate initial treatment selection, personalized therapeutic strategies, and vaccination. These findings provide valuable insights into the current research hotspots on CAP and future priorities for researchers and clinicians.},
}

Humans
*Bibliometrics
*Biomedical Research/trends
*Community-Acquired Pneumonia/epidemiology
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid42736961,
year = {2026},
author = {Bengoa-Urrengoechea, I and Malo, S and Rabanaque, MJ and Sánchez-Calavera, MA and Aguilar-Palacio, I},
title = {Exploring the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Primary Care Utilisation: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42736961},
issn = {2227-9032},
support = {PI22/01193//Institute of Health Carlos III/ ; //European Union/ ; B09-26R//Research Group in Health Services in Aragón (GRISSA)/ ; },
abstract = {Background: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, changes in healthcare organisation may have affected the management of patients with chronic conditions, such as those with type 2 diabetes (T2D), who require close monitoring. Although there are studies that have analysed the access and management of patients with T2D in primary care (PC) during the pandemic, there is no synthesis of the results that inform us about the care provided and their effect. The aim of this study is to summarise the existing evidence on the care provided in PC settings to patients with T2D during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as their follow-up care and outcomes, in order to understand the impact of the pandemic on their management. Methods: A scoping review was conducted according to the approach described by Arksey and O'Malley. Structured search strategies were developed for each of the selected databases (PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science). We included articles published in English and Spanish up to 24 March 2026 on access to care for patients with T2D in PC during the pandemic. Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts to select studies related to the population, intervention, and outcomes of interest. In cases of disagreement, a third reviewer resolved the discrepancy. One of the reviewers extracted data and summarised them. Results: After duplicate removal, 535 records were identified, with 116 articles screened in full text and 26 included. Most studies were conducted in Europe and North America using retrospective designs and electronic health records. During the pandemic period, face-to-face visits and routine screenings generally declined, while telemedicine expanded and may have partially mitigated disruptions in patient contact, although inequalities in access were reported. Disease monitoring and complication screening also declined in several settings. Clinical outcomes such as HbA1c and blood pressure (BP) showed heterogeneous trends, with some studies reporting deterioration and others reporting stability. Some studies also highlighted increased adverse events and greater attention to mental health during care. Conclusions: Although telemedicine helped maintain patient follow-up, it could not fully replace face-to-face assessments and was implemented alongside some gaps in clinical monitoring, patient safety, and health equity. These findings underscore the need to maintain structured chronic disease management and to develop safe and inclusive telehealth models.},
}

@article {pmid42737413,
year = {2026},
author = {Muñoz-Almaguer, ML and Flores-Salas, EY and Bancalari-Organista, C and Escutia-Gutierrez, R and Virgen-Montelongo, M and Avalos-Salgado, FA and Franco-Torres, EM and Corona-España, AM},
title = {Vitamin D and COVID-19: Inmunomodulatory Effects and the Mexican Public Health Perspectives.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42737413},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Vitamin D/therapeutic use ; Mexico/epidemiology ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/epidemiology/complications/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Public Health ; Dietary Supplements ; *Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/immunology/drug therapy ; Pandemics ; *Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/immunology/drug therapy ; Pregnancy ; Female ; },
abstract = {Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, considered a prohormone, that plays a fundamental role in calcium absorption and reabsorption, as well as the modulation of inflammatory response in infectious conditions such as COVID-19. A literature search was conducted in scientific databases and official sources, selecting studies published in the last 10 years in Spanish and English related to vitamin D and COVID-19; studies unrelated to the nutritional approach were excluded to reduce bias and ensure a rigorous and reproducible analysis. It was observed that the probability of contracting COVID-19 increases as the D3 hypovitaminosis prevalence increases. In Mexico, the relevance of vitamin D deficiency or supplementation in this disease has been controversial. Some studies claim that vitamin D supplementation could be a protective factor. According to the National Health Survey in Mexico (Ensanut), the Mexican population has significant deficiencies in this vitamin, contributing to an unfavorable diagnosis, particularly for children and pregnant women, as it is considered a deficiency in the blood when it is below 30 ng/mL and insufficiency when below 20 ng/mL, making these deficiencies important risk factors in the development of COVID-19 severe cases. Nevertheless, the use of vitamin D as an adjuvant agent in the treatment of COVID-19 can represent one of the main options for public health, providing therapeutic properties and health benefits.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Vitamin D/therapeutic use
Mexico/epidemiology
*Vitamin D Deficiency/epidemiology/complications/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
Public Health
Dietary Supplements
*Coronavirus Infections/epidemiology/immunology/drug therapy
Pandemics
*Pneumonia, Viral/epidemiology/immunology/drug therapy
Pregnancy
Female

@article {pmid42739074,
year = {2026},
author = {Grant, WB and Wimalawansa, SJ},
title = {Vitamin D and Health: Establishing Causal Relationships Through Observational Evidence and Hill's Criteria in a Biological Framework.},
journal = {Nutrients},
volume = {18},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42739074},
issn = {2072-6643},
mesh = {Humans ; *Vitamin D/blood/analogs & derivatives/administration & dosage ; Observational Studies as Topic ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Dietary Supplements ; Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control ; *Vitamin D Deficiency/blood ; Neoplasms/prevention & control ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Vitamin D has been linked to beneficial effects across more than 100 health outcomes, generating substantial interest in its extraskeletal functions. However, because nutrients differ fundamentally from pharmaceuticals in biology and mechanisms of action, conventional pharmaceutical-style randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are often inappropriate for evaluating nutrient efficacy. Instead, well-designed observational studies that have assessed serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations and correlated them with biologically relevant clinical outcomes provide evidence of effectiveness and establish causality. Since vitamin D primarily acts as a preventive agent for chronic diseases, the strongest evidence is derived from large, long-term, ecological and prospective cohort studies. In contrast, many RCTs have failed to demonstrate significant benefits because of methodological limitations, including enrollment of vitamin D-sufficient participants, inadequate dosing regimens, vitamin D supplementation in control groups, short intervention periods, and analyses based on assigned dose rather than serum 25(OH)D concentrations achieved, which determine biological responses. Early ecological studies demonstrated inverse associations between solar ultraviolet B doses and the risks of cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and infectious diseases. These findings have been consistently supported by numerous prospective larger cohort studies linking higher serum 25(OH)D concentrations with improved health outcomes. Observational studies also offer important advantages, including being large and covering diverse populations, wide variations in vitamin D status, longer follow-up, and adjustment for multiple confounding factors. When interpreted within a biological framework using Bradford Hill's criteria for causality-including consistency, strength and temporality of associations, dose-response relationships, biological plausibility, mechanistic evidence, coherence, and experimental support-the accumulated evidence strongly supports causal relationships that vitamin D sufficiency reduces risks of several diseases. This narrative review critically evaluates the evidence for cancer, CVD, blood pressure, COVID-19, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, periodontal disease, multiple sclerosis, and dementia. For these diseases, the authors concluded that the evidence satisfies Hill's criteria for causality and aligns with current understanding of vitamin D biology and nutrient-health relationships.},
}

Humans
*Vitamin D/blood/analogs & derivatives/administration & dosage
Observational Studies as Topic
COVID-19/epidemiology
Dietary Supplements
Cardiovascular Diseases/prevention & control
*Vitamin D Deficiency/blood
Neoplasms/prevention & control
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42739654,
year = {2026},
author = {Suzuki-Inoue, K and Ueda, M and Shirai, T and Tsukiji, N and Sasaki, T},
title = {Soluble CLEC-2 as an Emerging Biomarker of In Vivo Platelet Activation.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42739654},
issn = {2077-0383},
support = {LS052//Japan Society for the Promotion of Science/ ; },
abstract = {Platelet activation plays a central role in arterial thrombosis, thromboinflammation, and microvascular injury. Conventional platelet function tests evaluate platelet responsiveness to exogenous agonists ex vivo but do not directly reflect in vivo platelet activation. Although several soluble platelet-derived molecules, including platelet factor 4 (PF4), β-thromboglobulin (β-TG), soluble P-selectin, soluble CD40 ligand, glycocalicin, and soluble glycoprotein (GP) VI, have been investigated as in vivo platelet activation markers, their clinical use is limited by preanalytical instability, lack of platelet specificity, constitutive shedding, or uncertain disease specificity. Soluble C-type lectin-like receptor 2 (sCLEC-2) has recently emerged as a promising biomarker of in vivo platelet activation. CLEC-2 is expressed predominantly in platelets and megakaryocytes, and its soluble form is released from activated platelets as both a shed molecule and a microparticle-associated form. Compared with PF4 and β-TG, sCLEC-2 is less susceptible to artifactual release during routine blood collection, making it more suitable for clinical laboratory testing. Elevated sCLEC-2 levels have been reported in acute coronary syndrome, acute ischemic stroke, disseminated intravascular coagulation, thrombotic microangiopathy, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In thrombocytopenic disorders, indices incorporating platelet count, such as the C2PAC index, sCLEC-2/D-dimer ratio, and sCLEC-2 × D-dimer/platelet count, may better reflect platelet activation and disease status than sCLEC-2 concentration alone. However, preanalytical standardization, assay harmonization, reference interval validation, and disease-specific cutoff values remain essential. This review summarizes the biological basis, assay systems, clinical evidence, and future perspectives of sCLEC-2 as an emerging laboratory marker of in vivo platelet activation.},
}

@article {pmid42739690,
year = {2026},
author = {Mostberger, S and Glisic, M and Gamba, MR and Perret, C and Mueller, G},
title = {Early Versus Late Tracheostomy: An Umbrella Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {17},
pages = {},
pmid = {42739690},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Background: Optimal tracheostomy timing remains controversial due to conflicting evidence across published systematic reviews. To clarify this ambiguity within specific patient populations (critically ill, traumatic brain injury, stroke, trauma, COVID-19, and spinal cord injury), an umbrella review of systematic reviews was conducted comparing early versus late tracheostomy or prolonged intubation. Additionally, potential benefits in clinical outcomes were evaluated across a mixed-etiology cohort of mechanically ventilated patients. Methods: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched from inception through July 2024. Systematic reviews evaluating the impact of tracheostomy timing on mechanical ventilation duration, ventilator-associated pneumonia risk, ICU/hospital length of stay, and mortality were included. Two authors independently extracted data using a standardized form. Methodological quality was assessed via AMSTAR 2 and certainty of evidence via GRADE. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted for each outcome, stratified by study design (RCTs vs. non-RCTs), with subgroup analyses exploring patient subpopulations. Results: Evidence was synthesized from 9 systematic reviews (24 unique RCTs, 54 non-RCTs). In RCTs, moderate certainty evidence suggests that early tracheostomy reduces ventilator-associated pneumonia (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.94, p = 0.02) and mechanical ventilation duration (MD -3.76 days, 95% CI -6.01 to -1.52, p < 0.001) compared to late tracheostomy or prolonged intubation. Early tracheostomy may reduce ICU length of stay (MD -6.64 days, 95% CI -9.92 to -3.35, p < 0.001, low certainty). The effect of early tracheostomy on hospital length of stay and mortality remains uncertain. Conclusions: Early tracheostomy shows potential to reduce ventilator-associated pneumonia and mechanical ventilation duration in mixed-etiology cohorts. It may also be associated with shorter ICU length of stay, while its effect on mortality and hospital stay remains uncertain. Future research should establish standardized definitions of tracheostomy timing and prioritize high-quality, etiology-specific RCTs in underrepresented cohorts (e.g., traumatic brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury).},
}

@article {pmid42037238,
year = {2026},
author = {Ruhrländer, J and Schieffer, E and Schieffer, B},
title = {Regulatory cycles of orexin and glucagon-Like peptide-1 in postviral syndromes.},
journal = {Endocrine reviews},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {535-564},
doi = {10.1210/endrev/bnag009},
pmid = {42037238},
issn = {1945-7189},
mesh = {Humans ; *Orexins/metabolism/physiology ; *COVID-19/complications/metabolism ; *Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/metabolism ; Animals ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/metabolism/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; Post-Infectious Disorders ; },
abstract = {Postviral syndromes are heterogeneous multisystem diseases without a uniform etiology that occur as a result of acute viral infections. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of patients increased dramatically due to infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This is known as postacute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), with many cases also meeting the criteria for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), the most severe form of a postviral disease, characterized by severe fatigue, postexertional malaise (PEM), unrefreshing sleep, neurocognitive impairment, and autonomic and immune dysregulation. Orexin (OX) neuropeptides, which regulate arousal, metabolism, and neuroendocrine functions, may serve as a central link among stress, immune activation, and metabolic changes in these syndromes. Notable phenotypic similarities between OX system dysfunction and core features of PASC and ME/CFS, including fatigue, sleep issues, impaired glucose metabolism, and neuropsychiatric symptoms, support a mechanistic model in which impaired OX signaling contributes to postviral endocrine and metabolic dysfunction. This review examines the role of OX in regulating glucose metabolism, HPA axis activity, and systemic homeostasis, with a specific focus on sexually dimorphic expression and function in relation to postviral syndromes. We also highlight the effect of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), another key player in metabolism, which also has neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. We further emphasize emerging therapeutic strategies, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and drugs targeting the OX system. Together, these insights provide an integrated framework for understanding and targeting the neuroendocrine-metabolic underpinnings of PASC, ME/CFS, and other postviral syndromes.},
}

Humans
*Orexins/metabolism/physiology
*COVID-19/complications/metabolism
*Glucagon-Like Peptide 1/metabolism
Animals
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/metabolism/etiology
SARS-CoV-2
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
Post-Infectious Disorders

@article {pmid42402151,
year = {2026},
author = {Monreal-Escalante, E and León-Montoya, H and Ramos-Vega, A and Trujillo, E and Angulo, M and Guerra, K and Reyes-Becerril, M and Angulo, C},
title = {Rickettsial Diseases and Vaccines: Is There an Opportunity for Plant-Made Vaccine Technology?.},
journal = {Biotechnology and bioengineering},
volume = {123},
number = {10},
pages = {2587-2604},
pmid = {42402151},
issn = {1097-0290},
support = {PAZA-2026//Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste/ ; },
mesh = {*Plants, Genetically Modified/genetics/metabolism ; Animals ; Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/genetics/biosynthesis ; Humans ; *Rickettsia Infections/prevention & control/immunology ; *Rickettsia/immunology/genetics ; *Rickettsial Vaccines/genetics/immunology/biosynthesis ; Genetic Engineering ; },
abstract = {Rickettsiosis is a zoonotic disease caused by obligate intracellular bacteria of the family Rickettsiae, transmitted by arthropods. No commercial vaccine exists, despite the efficacy of experimental prototypes based on whole cells, DNAs, nanosystems, and recombinant antigens. Plants have been used as a platform for producing and delivering recombinant antigens, allowing the commercial vaccines for COVID-19 and Influenza. This technology can be used for recombinant Rickettsia vaccines for the target host, potentially for vector arthropods. These aspects are reviewed in this work, considering a brief immunobiology of Rickettsiae, experimental vaccines against Rickettsiosis, step-by-step genetic engineering in plants for recombinant antigen production and immunological assessment, representative successful examples of plant-made vaccines, and the analysis of the potential of plant-made vaccines to control arthropod-transmitted Rickettsiae. Perspectives in this field are offered, highlighting hurdles and opportunities.},
}

*Plants, Genetically Modified/genetics/metabolism
Animals
Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology/genetics/biosynthesis
Humans
*Rickettsia Infections/prevention & control/immunology
*Rickettsia/immunology/genetics
*Rickettsial Vaccines/genetics/immunology/biosynthesis
Genetic Engineering

@article {pmid42720236,
year = {2026},
author = {Laparidou, D and Willis, S and Howe, L and Ramachandran, A},
title = {Discovery Research on the Success Factors for Schools-Based Multiple Model Speech and Language Placements: A Rapid Scoping Review.},
journal = {International journal of language & communication disorders},
volume = {61},
number = {5},
pages = {e70331},
pmid = {42720236},
issn = {1460-6984},
support = {0008293-1060//NHS England/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Speech Therapy/organization & administration/education ; *Language Therapy/organization & administration/education ; Child ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Schools ; *School Health Services/organization & administration ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Demand for children's speech and language therapy (SLT) services has surged globally, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and workforce shortages. In England, waiting lists remain extensive, with over 66 000 children awaiting intervention in early 2025. Delayed access to SLT services is linked to poorer academic, social, and health outcomes. Innovative approaches are urgently needed to address these challenges. Embedding SLT student placements within schools offers a potential solution, simultaneously enhancing service capacity and providing authentic learning experiences. International evidence, such as the Broken Hill model in Australia, supports this approach, particularly for rural and remote communities.

AIMS: This rapid scoping review aimed to identify success factors, barriers, and enablers of school-based SLT placement models, and to assess their potential for scalability and sustainability. The review sought to inform policy and practice by synthesising evidence on supervision models and implementation strategies.

METHODS: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and Arksey & O'Malley's framework, a comprehensive search was conducted across eight databases (e.g., Web of Science, ERIC, CINAHL, Medline) and supplemented by grey literature searches. Inclusion criteria focused on SLT student placements in schools, particularly in underserved areas. Fourteen studies published between 2011 and 2024 were included, predominantly from Australia (57%), with others from the USA and UK. Data were extracted and synthesised narratively around barriers, facilitators, and model characteristics.

MAIN CONTRIBUTION: Findings indicate that school-based SLT placements can increase service capacity, improve student confidence and employability, and foster interprofessional collaboration. Successful models share key principles: Integration into policy frameworks, dedicated funding, strong cross-sector partnerships, cultural responsiveness, and structured supervision. Barriers include insufficient funding, infrastructure limitations in rural areas, student preparedness, and challenges with technology during remote delivery. Facilitators include early stakeholder engagement, flexible supervision approaches, and orientation training. Evidence suggests that positive placement experiences may influence graduates' willingness to work in underserved areas, addressing workforce shortages.

CONCLUSIONS: School-based SLT placements represent a promising strategy to alleviate service pressures and enhance workforce development. Greater alignment with health and education policy, sustainable funding, and approaches tailored to diverse contexts may support successful implementation. Scaling effective models could reduce waiting lists, improve equitable access to SLT services, and provide high-quality experiential learning for future practitioners.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS: What is already known on this subject School-based SLT placements have been implemented internationally, particularly in rural and underserved areas, to address workforce shortages and improve access to services. Evidence suggests these models can enhance student learning and service capacity, but there is limited synthesis of success factors, barriers, and scalability in the UK context. What this study adds to the existing knowledge This review identifies key principles for successful school-based SLT placements, including integration into policy frameworks, dedicated funding, cross-sector partnerships, and cultural responsiveness. It highlights barriers such as infrastructure limitations and student preparedness, and demonstrates that positive placement experiences may influence future workforce distribution. These findings provide an evidence-informed foundation for scaling models to reduce waiting lists and improve equitable access. What are the clinical implications of this study? Embedding SLT student placements in schools can increase service capacity, reduce waiting times, and support early intervention for children with speech and language needs. Structured supervision and orientation, alongside policy alignment and appropriate funding, may support sustainability and workforce readiness across diverse clinical contexts.},
}

Humans
*Speech Therapy/organization & administration/education
*Language Therapy/organization & administration/education
Child
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Schools
*School Health Services/organization & administration

@article {pmid42721896,
year = {2026},
author = {González-Madrid, E and Andrade, CA and Muñoz, JT and Ariztía, VF and Riedel, CA and González, PA and Kalergis, AM},
title = {Mechanistic analysis of immune communication during respiratory viral infections via the placenta-brain axis.},
journal = {Cytokine & growth factor reviews},
volume = {92},
number = {},
pages = {101526},
doi = {10.1016/j.cytogfr.2026.08.006},
pmid = {42721896},
issn = {1879-0305},
abstract = {Respiratory viral infections during pregnancy can disrupt maternal immune homeostasis, thereby altering placental function and fetal neurodevelopment through cytokine-mediated immune communication. Accumulating evidence suggests that the placenta functions as an active immunological interface, integrating maternal inflammatory signals and shaping fetal neuroimmune development, supporting the concept of the "placenta-brain axis". This review synthesizes current evidence on the cytokine, chemokine, interferon, and complement networks that mediate maternal-fetal immune communication and examines how these pathways are engaged during infections. It addresses four prevalent RNA respiratory viruses for which evidence is available at one or more biological levels of the placenta-brain axis, namely influenza virus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV), and human metapneumovirus (hMPV). We highlight substantial differences in the depth of mechanistic evidence across these pathogens, with influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 supported by comparatively robust experimental evidence, whereas hRSV and hMPV remain biologically plausible but mechanistically underexplored models of maternal-fetal immune communication. Hence, we propose a framework that grades mechanistic evidence across the placenta-brain axis against four explicit criteria and identify gestational timing, fetal sex, and maternal background inflammation as variables that modulate the transmission of inflammatory signals between levels. This structured approach identifies knowledge gaps and guides future mechanistic and translational research.},
}

@article {pmid42723126,
year = {2026},
author = {Ahmad, I and Ahmad Khan, S and Nabi, G and Urano, T and Morita, K and Ngwe Tun, MM},
title = {A comprehensive overview of monkeypox virus disease.},
journal = {Tropical medicine and health},
volume = {54},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42723126},
issn = {1348-8945},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Monkeypox (mpox), caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), re-emerged as a major global public health concern in 2022, resulting in widespread transmission beyond traditionally endemic regions. As of March 2026, 181,164 confirmed cases and 492 deaths had been reported across 144 countries globally. The unprecedented geographic spread of the outbreak highlighted important knowledge gaps in disease surveillance, prevention, and control. Given the ongoing global circulation of MPXV and the risk of future outbreaks, this review provides a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on MPXV and mpox.

METHODS: The literature, surveillance data, and public health reports available up to March 2026 were systematically reviewed and synthesized. The review comprehensively assesses viral biology, genetic diversity, epidemiology, transmission dynamics, clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, laboratory diagnosis, infection during pregnancy, host immune responses, immune evasion mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, and prevention strategies.

FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS: Globally, the decline in public immunity following the cessation of routine smallpox vaccination, together with ongoing viral evolution, may have contributed to the resurgence of mpox. Advances in genomic surveillance, diagnostics, and public health preparedness have strengthened outbreak response; however, important gaps remain in understanding long-term immunity and optimal treatment strategies. This review summarizes current evidence on MPXV and mpox and highlights priorities for future research and public health interventions.},
}

@article {pmid42724928,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, G and Lai, Y and Zhao, Y},
title = {The inflammation-immunosuppression loop as a driver of immune dysfunction and secondary infections in severe COVID-19.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1934930},
pmid = {42724928},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Inflammation/immunology ; Signal Transduction/immunology ; *Immune Tolerance ; *Coronavirus Infections/immunology ; Animals ; *Betacoronavirus/immunology ; Cytokines/immunology ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology ; Pandemics ; Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology ; },
abstract = {Severe COVID-19 is strongly associated with a high incidence of secondary bacterial, fungal, and viral infections, which substantially contribute to prolonged hospitalization and increased mortality. Although cytokine storm characterized by elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β has long dominated the understanding of the immunopathology of severe COVID-19, accumulating clinical and mechanistic evidence indicates that persistent immunosuppression and impaired antimicrobial immunity are equally critical determinants of disease outcomes. The coexistence of excessive inflammatory activation and profound immune paralysis within the same patient represents a major unresolved paradox in COVID-19 immunology. In this review, we systematically summarize recent advances in the mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2-induced immune remodeling and propose an integrated signaling network model that links inflammatory amplification with immunosuppressive reprogramming. We highlight the central roles of the GM-CSF, MAPK, TNF-α-NF-κB, and IL-6-JAK-STAT3 signaling networks in sustaining inflammatory activation, driving myeloid cell reprogramming, impairing antigen presentation, and promoting T-cell dysfunction and exhaustion. Furthermore, we propose an "inflammation-immunosuppression loop" model, in which persistent inflammatory signaling actively induces immunosuppressive states through STAT3-dependent transcriptional programs, while impaired antimicrobial immunity facilitates secondary infections. Infection-associated activation of pattern recognition receptors subsequently reinforces inflammatory signaling, establishing a self-amplifying positive feedback loop that accelerates disease progression. This model provides a mechanistic explanation for the paradoxical coexistence of hyperinflammation and immune paralysis in severe COVID-19 and redefines secondary infections as active drivers of disease deterioration rather than merely downstream complications. Finally, we evaluate current and emerging host-directed therapeutic strategies and propose that future immunotherapeutic approaches should shift from single cytokine blockade toward precision restoration of immune homeostasis guided by dynamic monitoring of immune network states.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Inflammation/immunology
Signal Transduction/immunology
*Immune Tolerance
*Coronavirus Infections/immunology
Animals
*Betacoronavirus/immunology
Cytokines/immunology
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology
Pandemics
Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology

@article {pmid42725043,
year = {2026},
author = {Lee, JM and Kim, HO and Kim, YJ and Singh, MK and Kim, SS and Yeo, SG},
title = {Respiratory pandemic risk in the Anthropocene: A One Health framework and GISRS+ agenda.},
journal = {One health (Amsterdam, Netherlands)},
volume = {23},
number = {},
pages = {101553},
pmid = {42725043},
issn = {2352-7714},
abstract = {Recent epidemics and pandemics caused by respiratory viruses, alongside the animal panzootic spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5Nx), have become a structural feature of the Anthropocene, yet responses remain largely reactive. This review integrates findings from WHO's Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) and related surveillance data (2000-2024), epidemiological studies of influenza A virus, SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, and H5Nx, and One Health literature. We examine major groups of respiratory viruses and identify mismatches between risk and surveillance by focusing on spillover potential from animal hosts, human-to-human transmission and its controllability, and Anthropocene characteristics that increase epidemic risk. The analysis indicated that SARS-related coronaviruses and influenza A viruses, particularly H5Nx, are among the leading candidates based on currently available evidence because they have large reservoirs in animal hosts and spillover to humans is highly probable. The previous presymptomatic spread of SARS-CoV-2 and recent mammalian adaptation in H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b highlight limitations of the traditional symptom-based and pathogen-specific surveillance system. Spillover events tend to occur in tropical and subtropical regions in low- and middle-income countries, but most genomic surveillance is in high-income countries. We propose interventions that address the upstream, midstream, downstream processes of epidemics. Upstream interventions are primary prevention measures related to land use, livestock, wildlife, and urban environments; midstream interventions are GISRS+-based pathogen-agnostic genomic and metagenomic early warning systems triggered by One Health; and downstream interventions include vaccines, antivirals, non-pharmaceutical interventions, and engineering with equity-centred global governance and sustainable financing.},
}

@article {pmid42726158,
year = {2026},
author = {Burgess, IF},
title = {Head Lice: A Revised View of the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Transmission and Prevalence.},
journal = {Acta parasitologica},
volume = {71},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42726158},
issn = {1896-1851},
mesh = {*Lice Infestations/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; *Pediculus/virology ; Animals ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Humans ; Prevalence ; Child ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Head louse transmission is a regular occurrence among children when coming into close contact with others during social activities. During the Covid-19 pandemic most countries instituted lockdown periods resulting in isolation of children away from regular contacts, potentially restricting opportunities for louse transmission. Subsequently there were reports of reduced infestations in children at schools, compared with before the pandemic, with a parallel fall in sales of pediculicidal treatments in several countries beyond the longer-term decline in product sales observed over several years before the pandemic.

METHODS: For this narrative review all literature linking Covid-19 and head lice were revisited and re-evaluated.

RESULTS: Despite the increased opportunity for elimination of infestations, some households with no outside contacts reported persistent incidence of head louse infestation and a review of the various studies suggests that most reported changes in head louse prevalence were relatively short lived or even illusory and in countries with low or middle incomes there was little or no difference in prevalence as a result of lockdowns.

CONCLUSIONS: Some aspects of the social distancing imposed in several countries during the pandemic appear to have continued to have some effect on social interactions of children, particularly in Western countries, with a commensurate slower recovery of head louse prevalence in some communities.},
}

*Lice Infestations/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
*Pediculus/virology
Animals
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Humans
Prevalence
Child
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics

@article {pmid42726480,
year = {2026},
author = {Fazio, M and Haas, B and Bahreinian, S and Andrei, S and Brown, HK and Raveendran, T and Saunders, N},
title = {Risk of Injury Among Children and Youths Whose Mothers Experienced Violent Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {JAMA network open},
volume = {9},
number = {9},
pages = {e2633054},
pmid = {42726480},
issn = {2574-3805},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Child ; *Wounds and Injuries/epidemiology/etiology ; Adolescent ; *Mothers/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; Child, Preschool ; *Violence/statistics & numerical data ; Male ; Prevalence ; Risk Factors ; *Exposure to Violence/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Maternal exposure to violent injury is a sentinel event with implications for child health and safety. Quantifying the risk of injury in children whose mothers have experienced violent injury is essential for trauma-informed pediatric care.

OBJECTIVE: To review and synthesize evidence on the risk of physical and sexual injury among children whose mothers have experienced violent injury.

DATA SOURCES: MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science were searched from inception to August 7, 2024.

STUDY SELECTION: Observational cohort, cross-sectional, and case-control studies and secondary analyses of randomized clinical trials that reported comparative risk estimates or prevalence of child injury following maternal violent injury were included. Children were required to be younger than 25 years at both exposure and outcome assessment.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two reviewers independently screened studies and extracted data, with disagreements resolved by a third reviewer. Risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Random-effects meta-analyses pooled prevalence ratios, odds ratios, and prevalence estimates. Comparative meta-analyses focused on physical injury outcomes. Sexual injury outcomes were synthesized descriptively because of sparse and heterogeneous comparative data. Prespecified subgroup analyses examined corporal punishment vs other physical injuries.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcome was the risk of physical injury in children exposed to maternal violent injury compared with unexposed children. Sexual injury was a secondary outcome.

RESULTS: Of 6218 unique records identified, 48 (7 666 786 unique participants) met inclusion criteria. Children exposed to maternal violent injury had a higher risk of physical injury compared with unexposed children (pooled prevalence ratio, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.36-2.01]; pooled odds ratio, 2.53 [95% CI, 1.60-4.00]), with substantial heterogeneity. Among exposed children, the pooled prevalence of physical injury was 42.4% (95% CI, 30.6%-54.6%). Sexual injury prevalence among exposed children was 17.0% (95% CI, 12.3%-22.3%); comparative estimates were insufficient for pooling. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses yielded similar findings across injury types.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this systematic review and meta-analysis of children exposed to maternal violent injury, these children were at substantially increased risk for physical injury and experienced a high burden of sexual injury, underscoring the need for trauma-informed integrated family supports following maternal assault.},
}

Humans
Female
Child
*Wounds and Injuries/epidemiology/etiology
Adolescent
*Mothers/psychology/statistics & numerical data
Child, Preschool
*Violence/statistics & numerical data
Male
Prevalence
Risk Factors
*Exposure to Violence/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42728430,
year = {2026},
author = {Xue, L and Ang, MJY and Swingle, KL and Fitzgerald, E and Chalom, O and Gu, N and Mitchell, MJ},
title = {Structural evolution of ionizable lipids for nucleic acid delivery.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Chemistry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42728430},
issn = {2397-3358},
abstract = {Ionizable lipid nanoparticles have emerged as a potent non-viral delivery platform for nucleic acid therapeutics, achieving clinical breakthroughs ranging from the FDA-approved small interfering RNA therapeutic to mRNA vaccines against coronavirus disease 2019 and respiratory syncytial virus. Their success stems from the ability of ionizable lipids to remain neutral in physiological environments, yet protonate in acidic endosomes, enabling the efficient release of genetic cargo. Over the last several decades, their structures have evolved extensively through the application of combinatorial chemistry, rational design, incorporation of functional elements and, most recently, machine learning and artificial intelligence-guided strategies. These innovations have expanded ionizable lipids from passive carriers into multifunctional materials capable of organ-specific targeting, responsiveness, immunomodulation and theranostics. In this Review, we highlight the development, synthesis and structural evolution of ionizable lipids as well as their emerging on-demand design functionalities and next-generation biomedical applications. We provide insights into the challenges and gaps for translation, manufacturing and expansion of lipid nanoparticle-mediated nucleic acid therapeutics for precision RNA medicine.},
}

@article {pmid42729498,
year = {2026},
author = {Rasmussen, EB and Alvarado, AY},
title = {A Behavioral Economic Characterization of the Impact of the COVID-19 Quarantine on Reinforcer Diversity, Behavior, and Health.},
journal = {Perspectives on behavior science},
volume = {49},
number = {3},
pages = {569-611},
pmid = {42729498},
issn = {2520-8977},
abstract = {In 2020, the U.S. government, like other countries, instated a nationwide quarantine to reduce the spread of COVID-19, which had reached pandemic status. Though challenging on a number of levels, the quarantine also provided a unique opportunity to examine the effects of a cultural phenomenon that reduced access to many sources of reinforcement and the potential impact on behavior and health. From a behavioral economic standpoint, the quarantine likely resulted in greater consumption of reinforcers that were highly available in the home, such as social media, sleep, substances, and food, while lowering consumption of reinforcers that were restricted by quarantine policies. These two trends likely combined into a net reduction in the diversity of reinforcers that were available to individuals during the quarantine. For some individuals, these shifts in consumption also predicted changes in health and mental health status, especially those involving consumption of social media, sleep, substances, and food. We discuss the implications for health and mental health associated with these trends and end by offering suggestions on how a more careful programming of available reinforcers during times of low reinforcer diversity may prevent excessive consumption of reinforcers that may affect health or mental health risks.},
}

@article {pmid42731987,
year = {2026},
author = {Chiang, HL and Chien, YL and Gau, SS},
title = {Young minds in distress: Exploring the global rise in youth mental health diagnoses.},
journal = {Molecular psychiatry},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42731987},
issn = {1476-5578},
abstract = {Adolescence represents a critical neurobiological period marked by a developmental "mismatch" between early-maturing limbic systems and the later-maturing prefrontal cortex, conferring heightened vulnerability to the onset of psychiatric disorders. This review synthesizes global epidemiological trends, differentiates true increases in morbidity from diagnostic inflation, and integrates evidence-based intervention strategies. In high-income countries, youth depression, suicide mortality, and self-harm have risen substantially, supported by objective indicators of illness severity that extend beyond changes in diagnostic practices. Key environmental drivers include pervasive digital engagement, cyberbullying, sleep disruption, and academic pressure, with sleep disturbances emerging as a central transdiagnostic risk factor. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated these pre-existing trajectories of mental health deterioration, with particularly marked effects on eating-disorder incidence and social-emotional development. To address these challenges, we suggest a three-tiered intervention framework. Universal approaches should emphasize regulation of digital environments, implementation of Social-Emotional Learning, and institutional support for regular physical activity. Selective interventions should target high-risk youth by proactively monitoring sleep health and mitigating achievement-related stress in academically competitive settings. Indicated care requires integrated delivery of evidence-based psychotherapies alongside structured return-to-learn protocols following psychiatric hospitalization. Ultimately, translating epidemiological risk into effective prevention demands a shift from reactive, diagnosis-centered models to proactive frameworks that prioritize early risk reduction and the reinforcement of protective factors. By fostering environments that promote circadian stability, physical activity, emotional regulation, and peer connectedness, youth mental health can be strengthened as a foundation for societal well-being, resilience, and adaptive functioning in an increasingly complex world.},
}

@article {pmid42732100,
year = {2026},
author = {Simon, Y and Hadju, V and Dahlan, C and Chaeroel Ansar, M},
title = {Trends and Research Frontiers on Exclusive Breastfeeding Policy: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {F1000Research},
volume = {15},
number = {},
pages = {792},
pmid = {42732100},
issn = {2046-1402},
mesh = {*Breast Feeding/trends ; Humans ; *Bibliometrics ; *Health Policy/trends ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is vital for child survival, growth, and development, yet its promotion and protection remain challenging across diverse policy and health system contexts. Over the past decade, research on EBF policy has increased alongside global health priorities and emerging crises. This study examines publication trends, key sources and authors, collaboration patterns, and thematic evolution in EBF policy research from 2016 to 2025 using bibliometric analysis.

METHODS: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using Scopus data retrieved with the query "exclusive breastfeeding" and "policy" for publications from 2016-2025. A total of 449 documents were analyzed based on publication trends, influential journals and authors, citation impact, collaboration networks, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic evolution.

RESULTS: EBF policy research showed a consistent annual growth rate of 18.57%, with publication peaks in 2020 and 2023, partly linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Breastfeeding Journal and Maternal and Child Nutrition were the leading journals, while Pérez-Escamilla, Agho, and Ogbo were among the most influential authors. International collaboration increased, although contributions from low- and middle-income countries remained limited. Research themes evolved from child health and biomedical determinants (2016-2019) to broader issues, including maternal factors, workplace support, nutrition policy, and health system resilience, with COVID-19-related challenges emerging after 2020.

CONCLUSIONS: EBF policy research has shifted toward a more holistic and system-oriented perspective. Strengthening policy frameworks, health systems, and equitable support mechanisms is essential to sustain progress in EBF promotion and protection.},
}

*Breast Feeding/trends
Humans
*Bibliometrics
*Health Policy/trends
COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid42732429,
year = {2026},
author = {Mousavi, S and Ardekani, MB and Feizi, A},
title = {Navigating Therapeutic Frontiers: A Meta-review and Meta-analysis of COVID-19 Treatment Options.},
journal = {Journal of research in pharmacy practice},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {29},
pmid = {42732429},
issn = {2319-9644},
abstract = {To assess the efficacy and safety of each therapeutic options in the treatment of COVID-19 by assessing the evidence from existing systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and to carry out an umbrella meta-analysis of all meta-analysis studies to assess the efficacy of each drug. A comprehensive search was carried out in electronic databases for systematic reviews and meta-analyses which compared the efficacy and/or safety of therapeutic options in the treatment of COVID-19. Findings from the reviews were synthesized using tables and forest plots and the pooled estimate of effect size using the DerSimonian and Laird method was used for the updated meta-analysis. The main outcome was mortality. 285 reviews with 152 meta-analyses were included, The analysis of systematic reviews contents indicated that most reviewed drugs were as follows: chroquine/hydroxychloroquine (n = 48), tocilizumab (n = 39), remdesivir (n = 25), corticosteroids (n = 25), JAK inhibitors (n = 12), colchicine (n = 11), ivermectin (n = 8), anakinra (n = 7), favipravir (n = 7), lopinavir/ritonavir (n = 6), ACEI/ARB (n = 6), azithromycin (n = 4), sofosbuvir (n = 4), and Vitamin D (n = 4). Findings from the included reviews suggested that tocilizumab, remdesivir, corticosteroids, JAKI, anakinra, colchicine, ivermectin, and sofosbuvir decreased the rate of mortality significantly in those taking the drugs; otherwise hydroxylchroquine increased the risk of mortality significantly, while Lopinavir/Ritonavir had no benefit and ACEI and azithromycin decreased mortality rate not significantly. lower requirement for mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit admission and a shorter hospital length of stay was observed with the tocilizumab, JAKIs, anakinra, corticosteroids and sofosbuvir Only one third of the included reviews had 70% quality based on the AMSTAR scale assessment. The results of this study have the potential to be a useful tool for the translation of health evidence and for designing the decision support systems for evidence synthesis.},
}

@article {pmid42733405,
year = {2026},
author = {Millan, MJ},
title = {From HIV to SARS-CoV-2 associated neurological disorder ("HAND" to "SAND"): Viral infection as a "time-bomb" for the aging brain.},
journal = {Neuroscience applied},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {107024},
pmid = {42733405},
issn = {2772-4085},
abstract = {In 2020, a novel Coronavirus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Covid-2 (SARS-CoV-2), spread globally to provoke a pandemic that infected over 750 million people. The associated disorder, Coronavirus-19 (COVID-19), has caused at least 7 million deaths and around a hundred million people have developed a variable yet sometimes incapacitating condition called Long Covid. This multi-organ syndrome, often referred to as "Brain Fog", encompasses symptoms of extreme fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep and, most prominently, cognitive impairment. Long Covid emerges three or more months after SARS-CoV-2 infection and bears a marked resemblance to the suite of neurological symptoms that evolves several years after infection with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Accordingly, by analogy to "HIV Associated Neurological Disorder" (HAND), the acronym," SAND" is proposed for SARS-CoV-2 Associated Neurological Disorder. Mimicking HIV infection/HAND, SARS-CoV-2 infection/SAND is on a collision course with aging, leading to their mutual aggravation and an increased risk of disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. In contrast to HIV, where the virus crosses the blood-brain-barrier in T-lymphocytes and monocytes to infect microglia and other cell types, there is little evidence that SARS-CoV-2 enters the brain. Nonetheless, in addition to the indirect effects of a somatic hyper-inflammation ("cytokine storm") and the disruption of blood- and CSF-brain barriers, SARS-CoV-2-encoded S1 Spike protein and other virally-encoded proteins enter the brain to directly interfere with cerebral function. Microglia and astrocytes adopt a pro-inflammatory phenotype, neurotoxic proteins accumulate, mitochondrial energy generation declines, and synaptic transmission is perturbed. These findings for SAND mirror observations seen with aging and dementia. A broad-based programme of "R and D", healthcare and social support would appear desirable to better understand the complex set of interacting mechanisms underlying SAND, to prevent its onset, to alleviate the debilitating symptoms, and to improve our readiness for countering the impact of those novel, brain-damaging viruses that will inevitably arise in the future.},
}

@article {pmid41102952,
year = {2026},
author = {Eltaib, L and Alanazi, MN and Khan, Y and Hanbashi, A and Khan, G and Rikabi, HA and Maqbool, M and Hussain, MS},
title = {PANoptosis in Cytokine Release Syndrome: Bridging the Gap between Inflammation and Cell Death.},
journal = {Current pharmaceutical design},
volume = {32},
number = {29},
pages = {2355-2364},
pmid = {41102952},
issn = {1873-4286},
mesh = {Humans ; *Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology/pathology/drug therapy ; *Inflammation/immunology/pathology ; *Cell Death/immunology/drug effects ; Animals ; COVID-19/immunology ; Cytokines/metabolism ; Immunotherapy/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) is a hyperinflammatory condition triggered by infections, immunotherapies, and systemic immune dysregulation. PANoptosis, a unique form of programmed inflammatory cell death that integrates pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, has emerged as a key contributor to CRS pathogenesis. This review explores the mechanistic role of PANoptosis in CRS, with particular emphasis on immunotherapy-induced toxicity and viral infections such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza. PANoptosis exacerbates cytokine storms through ZBP1, NLRP3, and CASP8-mediated pathways, creating a pathological feedback loop that intensifies inflammation and promotes multi-organ damage. Current evidence suggests that modulating PANoptotic pathways, including targeting TNF-α, IFN-γ, and inflammasome components, may mitigate cytokine-driven tissue injury. Despite growing interest, the therapeutic potential of PANoptosis remains underexplored. Advancing our understanding of PANoptosis and its interaction with cytokine signaling will be critical for developing effective interventions for CRS and improving outcomes in patients undergoing immunotherapy or battling severe infections.},
}

Humans
*Cytokine Release Syndrome/immunology/pathology/drug therapy
*Inflammation/immunology/pathology
*Cell Death/immunology/drug effects
Animals
COVID-19/immunology
Cytokines/metabolism
Immunotherapy/adverse effects

@article {pmid42714194,
year = {2027},
author = {Michou, V and Tsamos, D and Itziou, A and Tsanaktsidis, C},
title = {Breathing in harm: current insights into the effects of air pollution on cardiorespiratory health.},
journal = {Medical gas research},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {268-284},
pmid = {42714194},
issn = {2045-9912},
mesh = {Humans ; *Air Pollution/adverse effects ; *Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology ; Air Pollutants ; COVID-19 ; *Respiratory Tract Diseases/etiology ; Environmental Exposure/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {Air pollution significantly contributes to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, leading to increased morbidity and mortality. This review critically examines the mechanisms linking air pollution to higher cardiometabolic risk and cardiovascular death. It examines the impact of air pollution on respiratory health, specifically its role in exacerbating conditions such as heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and asthma. Special attention is given to vulnerable groups, including pregnant individuals, neonates, children, and patients with pre-existing cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, who are particularly susceptible and experience more severe health effects. Emerging evidence regarding the interactions between air pollution and coronavirus disease 2019 is also presented, showing how reductions in pollution levels during pandemic lockdowns were associated with improved cardiopulmonary health. Furthermore, the review discusses international differences in air quality standards and recent updates to exposure limits for air pollutants, as well as their implications for public health. It evaluates various mitigation strategies, including policy interventions, technological solutions, and approaches to reduce risk-based exposure. Lastly, the review emphasizes the need for comprehensive, evidence-based frameworks to minimize exposure and prevent diseases associated with pollution. Strengthening air quality management is essential for reducing the global burden of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases.},
}

Humans
*Air Pollution/adverse effects
*Cardiovascular Diseases/etiology
Air Pollutants
COVID-19
*Respiratory Tract Diseases/etiology
Environmental Exposure/adverse effects

@article {pmid42719526,
year = {2026},
author = {Hashmi, MN and Almarzouk, S and Hejaili, F and Raza, H},
title = {Disaster Management in Hemodialysis Centers: Ensuring Continuity of Lifesaving Care.},
journal = {Avicenna journal of medicine},
volume = {16},
number = {3},
pages = {107-115},
pmid = {42719526},
issn = {2231-0770},
abstract = {Hemodialysis is a life-sustaining therapy that depends on uninterrupted access to electricity, clean water, medical supplies, and trained staff. This dependence makes hemodialysis units uniquely vulnerable to disasters such as natural catastrophes, power failures, pandemics, or civil emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic, major earthquakes, and large-scale floods have highlighted the fragility of dialysis infrastructure worldwide. This review synthesizes available evidence on disaster preparedness, response, and recovery in hemodialysis centers. Drawing on international experiences and existing guidelines, it proposes a framework to enhance resilience and ensure continuity of dialysis care during crises. Key strategies include structured risk assessment, patient and staff education, backup systems for power and water, coordinated regional response networks, and incorporation of disaster readiness into routine dialysis operations. Strengthening preparedness at every level-from the individual center to national health systems-is vital to prevent avoidable morbidity and mortality among this highly vulnerable population.},
}

@article {pmid42719575,
year = {2026},
author = {Schäfer, C and Blamey, C and Balbiano, R and Mena, J and Acuña-Castillo, C and Sandino, AM},
title = {SARS-CoV-2 ORF8: an accessory protein at the interface of immune evasion and inflammation.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1826664},
pmid = {42719575},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Immune Evasion/immunology ; *Viral Proteins/immunology/metabolism ; *Inflammation/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 ORF8 is a rapidly evolving accessory protein that modulates host immunity through both intracellular and extracellular mechanisms. Intracellularly, ORF8 disrupts antigen presentation by reducing cell-surface MHC-I and is linked to endoplasmic reticulum remodeling and altered stress responses. Extracellularly, secreted ORF8 behaves as a virokine that can amplify inflammatory programs in myeloid and dendritic cells, with potential implications for acute severity and tissue-specific pathology. ORF8 is also reported to antagonize type I interferon induction through effects on IRF3-dependent pathways. Clinically, circulating ORF8 has been associated with disease severity, and persistent detection of ORF8 after viral RNA becomes undetectable has been reported in some individuals with post-acute symptoms. However, whether this persistence reflects a direct pathogenic role or instead marks ongoing viral burden and immune activation remains unresolved. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the pleiotropic effects of ORF8 and outline key priorities to clarify when ORF8 acts primarily as an immune-evasion factor, an inflammatory amplifier, or both. Collectively, the evidence reviewed here identifies ORF8 as a promising candidate for further mechanistic studies, whose biomarker potential and therapeutic relevance warrant rigorous evaluation in acute and post-acute COVID-19.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Immune Evasion/immunology
*Viral Proteins/immunology/metabolism
*Inflammation/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid42717452,
year = {2026},
author = {Toboltoc, PC and Vekony, A and Gagiu, I},
title = {SARS-CoV-2-related immune dysregulation and biologically plausible pathways to lymphomagenesis: a PRISMA-ScR-based scoping review.},
journal = {Romanian journal of morphology and embryology = Revue roumaine de morphologie et embryologie},
volume = {67},
number = {2},
pages = {213-224},
doi = {10.47162/RJME.67.2.02},
pmid = {42717452},
issn = {2066-8279},
mesh = {Humans ; *Lymphoma/immunology/pathology/virology ; *COVID-19/immunology/complications/pathology/virology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-related immune dysregulation has generated interest in diagnostic pathology because infection-related inflammation, long coronavirus disease (COVID)-related immune disturbance, and post-vaccination lymphoid reactions may overlap with lymphoid-biological mechanisms and complicate the distinction between reactive lymphoid proliferations and lymphoid neoplasia.

AIM: This scoping review aimed to map biologically plausible pathways through which SARS-CoV-2-associated immune perturbation may intersect with lymphomagenesis-related mechanisms, emphasizing diagnostic implications rather than causality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). PubMed∕MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from January 2020 to March 2026, with selected pre-2020 sources retained for mechanistic or diagnostic relevance. Sources were charted across mechanistic, immunological, virological, clinicopathological, and diagnostic domains.

RESULTS: After screening and eligibility assessment, 63 sources were retained for thematic synthesis. Evidence clustered around lymphoma-relevant but non-specific mechanisms, including inflammatory signaling, impaired immune surveillance, latent oncogenic viral reactivation, prolonged germinal-center activity with activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID)-related genomic vulnerability, and lymphoid microenvironment remodeling. These mechanisms appear most relevant in predisposed hosts with chronic immune dysregulation, latent viral infection, defective deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) repair, or occult abnormal lymphoid clones. Infection and vaccination are distinct contexts, because infection may produce broader immune disruption, whereas most post-vaccination nodal events are reactive and self-limited.

CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence supports biological plausibility rather than a direct or generalizable causal relationship. The main diagnostic implication is careful clinicopathological correlation and distinction between reactive lymphoid proliferations and lymphoid neoplasia in post-COVID-19 and post-vaccination settings.},
}

Humans
*Lymphoma/immunology/pathology/virology
*COVID-19/immunology/complications/pathology/virology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology

@article {pmid42717903,
year = {2026},
author = {Walldorf, JA and Patel, JC and Cibrelus, L and Fernandez, K and Bouhenia, M and Harutyunyan, V and Pezzoli, L and Staples, JE and Nguyen, T and Costa, A},
title = {Evolution of the global emergency vaccine stockpile system.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {25},
number = {1},
pages = {2715858},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2026.2715858},
pmid = {42717903},
issn = {1744-8395},
mesh = {Humans ; Global Health ; *Vaccines/supply & distribution/administration & dosage ; *Strategic Stockpile ; Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The emergence of epidemic-prone diseases continues to pose a threat to global health. Vaccine stockpiles allow effective and timely response to outbreaks. Global stockpiles have been established for multiple vaccines, but stockpile management has evolved in recent years, both in the number of globally managed stockpiles and in stockpile strategy, from a reactive to a more integrated approach bridging with preventive strategies.

AREAS COVERED: We conducted a review of published and gray literature to provide an update on the evolution of stockpile management in recent years (2014-2025), specifically for cholera, yellow fever, polio, meningococcus, COVID-19, Ebola, and mpox.

EXPERT OPINION: The benefit of accelerated development of new vaccines and medical countermeasures to fight epidemic-prone diseases cannot be achieved without efficient and transparent stockpile management and distribution mechanisms, to ensure equitable and needs-based allocation.},
}

Humans
Global Health
*Vaccines/supply & distribution/administration & dosage
*Strategic Stockpile
Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
Vaccine Development

@article {pmid42718950,
year = {2026},
author = {Combrink, HMVE and Mkungeka, P and Bhengu, C and Katarya, R and Smart, B},
title = {Managing an infodemic in the global south: a systematic evidence synthesis from COVID-19 social listening reports.},
journal = {Frontiers in public health},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1787026},
pmid = {42718950},
issn = {2296-2565},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; South Africa/epidemiology ; *Infodemic ; *Communication ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic was accompanied by a widespread infodemic characterised by rapidly evolving information, misinformation, and uncertainty, particularly within low- and middle-income country contexts. Social listening emerged as a critical tool for risk communication and community engagement by enabling real-time monitoring of public concerns, misinformation, and information gaps. This study presents a systematic evidence synthesis of national COVID-19 social listening reports produced in South Africa between 2021 and 2023 to inform infodemic management in the Global South. A total of 91 publicly available social listening reports were identified through coordinated national repositories and screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Following PRISMA 2020 guidance for transparent reporting, misinformation signals and corresponding recommended actions were extracted, thematically coded, and synthesised. The synthesis identified 964 instances of misinformation across 12 thematic categories, with dominant themes relating to COVID-19 disease management, vaccine safety, side effects, and conspiracy narratives. In parallel, 573 recommended action items were consolidated into eight thematic response domains, emphasising community-based engagement, targeted health education, communication strategy development, political and public figure credibility, and continuous monitoring and research. Building on these findings, the study proposes a circular social listening health priority nexus that operationalises the translation of misinformation signals into adaptive public health communication responses. While this synthesis does not evaluate the effectiveness of implemented interventions, it provides structured evidence to support decision-making and priority setting for infodemic management. The findings highlight the importance of context-sensitive, adaptive communication strategies and sustained social listening systems to strengthen public health responses to future infodemics in the Global South.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
South Africa/epidemiology
*Infodemic
*Communication
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42719002,
year = {2026},
author = {Cabanillas-Lazo, M and Alegre-Cordero, I and Mera-Lojano, LD and Luna-Peralta, G and Cruzalegui-Bazan, C and Castro-Suárez, P and Quispe-Vicuña, C and Mayta-Tovalino, F},
title = {Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio for the clinical management of dengue: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Frontiers in epidemiology},
volume = {6},
number = {},
pages = {1877646},
pmid = {42719002},
issn = {2674-1199},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Dengue fever (DF) remains a major global public health concern, especially in tropical and low-resource settings. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been proposed as an accessible biomarker for diagnosis and severity assessment, but the existing evidence is heterogeneous. To summarize the current evidence on the behavior of the NLR in DF.

METHODS: This study conducted a systematic search in five databases for observational studies published until April 2024. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were based on predefined eligibility criteria, and quality and methodological assessment were expressed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data was pooled using a random-effects model and results generalized as applicable, when pooling could not be carried out. A summary receiver operating characteristic curve (sROC) was obtained to assess the diagnostic accuracy of NLR for distinguishing DF from COVID-19. The certainty of evidence was graded using the GRADE system.

RESULT: A total of 6,166 participants from 15 observational studies were included, all with low risk of bias. A single study showed a higher NLR in dengue vs. healthy controls (Bhattarai, 2023; MD: 1.29; 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.71), with moderate certainty. The SROC curve for dengue vs. COVID-19 (2 studies, n = 226) showed sensitivity and specificity of 83.9% and an AUC of 0.907, indicating high diagnostic accuracy, with moderate certainty.

CONCLUSION: For prognosis, severe dengue showed a small, but significant NLR decrease compared with dengue with warning signs (MD: -0.54; 95% CI: -0.91 to -0.17, I2 = 0%), with very low certainty. NLR may serve as a supportive diagnostic biomarker for dengue. However, its prognostic value remains uncertain, highlighting the need for large, prospective studies to validate cutoff points and clinical utility.},
}

@article {pmid41654320,
year = {2026},
author = {Roth-Walter, F and Adcock, IM and Benito-Villalvilla, C and Bianchini, R and Bjermer, L and Caramori, G and Cari, L and Chung, KF and Diamant, Z and Eguiluz-Gracia, I and Knol, EF and Jesenak, M and Levi-Schaffer, F and Nocentini, G and O'Mahony, L and Palomares, O and Redegeld, F and Sokolowska, M and Van Esch, B and Zurlo, M and Stellato, C},
title = {Update on Non-Biological and RNA-Based Therapeutics in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases: Precision Medicine Through Small Molecules: An EAACI Position Paper.},
journal = {Allergy},
volume = {81},
number = {9},
pages = {3039-3070},
doi = {10.1111/all.70235},
pmid = {41654320},
issn = {1398-9995},
support = {//European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Precision Medicine/methods ; *Inflammation/drug therapy/therapy ; Chronic Disease ; *RNA/therapeutic use ; Animals ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19 ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; },
abstract = {In the last decades, critical advancements in research technology and knowledge on disease mechanisms steered therapeutic approaches for chronic inflammatory diseases towards unprecedented target specificity. For allergic and chronic lung diseases, biologic drugs pioneered this goal, acquiring on the way-through the clinical use of monoclonal antibodies-a deeper understanding of how inflammatory and immune pathways are configured in disease-specific patterns. In this biomarker-driven approach, synthetic small molecule drugs (SMDs) were perceived as lagging behind in innovation for their relative lack of specificity. This was, however, mostly due to a shift in focus towards biologics rather than true obsolescence of SMDs. In the same timeframe, in fact, advances in structural biology and medicinal chemistry, bioinformatics and artificial intelligence held steadily SMDs' innovation and relevance. The use of kinase inhibitors, well established in the treatment of cancer and rheumatological diseases, is now approved for some allergic skin diseases and is approaching asthma and COPD with several clinical trials; moreover, new therapeutics targeting mast cell receptors and molecules involved in innate immunity are entering preclinical and clinical testing. Alongside, the portfolio of biologics is harboring the expansion of RNA therapeutics, which gained global recognition during the COVID-19 pandemic due to RNA vaccines. Different types of RNA therapeutics, including those based on different non-coding RNAs, are advancing to agency approval and market, thanks to improvements in molecule stability and delivery systems. In summary, the evidence presented in this position paper illustrates that precision medicine is becoming a goal shared between synthetic SMDs and biologics, both protein/antibody-based and RNA therapeutics. We review the current state, unmet needs and opportunities within this evolving landscape, highlighting how small molecular species, both synthetic as SMDs and biologic in nature as RNA, can contribute to the precision medicine approach along with protein and antibody-based biologics and cell therapies.},
}

Humans
*Precision Medicine/methods
*Inflammation/drug therapy/therapy
Chronic Disease
*RNA/therapeutic use
Animals
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19
COVID-19 Drug Treatment

@article {pmid42717339,
year = {2026},
author = {He, Y and Mao, Y and Wang, X},
title = {Machine learning-assisted mRNA vaccine pharmacovigilance: a systematic review of multi-source real-world data.},
journal = {BMC medical informatics and decision making},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42717339},
issn = {1472-6947},
support = {23C0169//Scientific Research Project of the Hunan Provincial Department of Education/ ; 2024XJZC016//School-level research project of Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine/ ; 2023BKS050//Hunan University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Undergraduate Research Innovation Fund Project/ ; },
mesh = {*Pharmacovigilance ; Humans ; *Machine Learning ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects ; Predictive Learning Models ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems ; *mRNA Vaccines/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The rapid deployment of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed limitations in traditional pharmacovigilance systems, including delayed reporting, high underreporting rates, and inability to calculate true incidence. Machine learning (ML) offers new pathways to overcome these challenges by integrating multi-source real-world data.

METHODS: We systematically reviewed English-language studies from database inception to June 2026. Searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science. Two reviewers independently screened records. Given substantial heterogeneity across ML tasks (signal detection, text extraction, risk prediction, prognosis stratification), algorithms, data sources, and metrics, we performed narrative synthesis. Risk of bias was assessed using adapted QUADAS-2.

RESULTS: We identified 43 studies. For adverse-event prediction, tree-based models reported AUCs of 0.85-0.87, though estimates derive from heterogeneous settings. NLP reduced redundant signals by 17% in vaccine reporting systems. For myocarditis, ML models reached AUCs up to 0.899 in cardiovascular cohorts, but direct mRNA vaccine applications remain limited and retrospective. Emerging platforms (self-amplifying and tumor mRNA vaccines) lack post-marketing data, rendering ML applications largely conceptual.

CONCLUSION: ML-assisted pharmacovigilance enables a shift from passive to active, intelligent monitoring. Despite challenges in data quality, model interpretability, and regulatory approval, intelligent pharmacovigilance systems will become essential infrastructure for safeguarding public health.},
}

*Pharmacovigilance
Humans
*Machine Learning
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects
Predictive Learning Models
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems
*mRNA Vaccines/adverse effects

@article {pmid42717375,
year = {2026},
author = {Cano-Cevallos, L and Patiño-Aveiga, G and Gaibor-Pazmiño, A and Ortiz-Prado, E and Izquierdo-Condoy, JS},
title = {Microbiome dysbiosis in long COVID: a scoping review of mechanistic insights, symptom associations, and therapeutic targets.},
journal = {Gut pathogens},
volume = {18},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42717375},
issn = {1757-4749},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The human microbiome, particularly the gut microbiome, plays a critical role in host immunity, metabolism, and barrier function. Emerging evidence suggests that persistent alterations in microbiome composition-termed dysbiosis-may contribute to the development and symptom persistence of Long COVID.

AIMS: To map the available literature on microbiome dysbiosis in relation to Long COVID, identify key microbial alterations, associated symptoms, and evaluate potential microbiome-targeted interventions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The scoping review followed Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodological guidance and was reported according to PRISMA-ScR. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases was conducted for studies published from January 2000 to May 2025. Eligible studies included human subjects with a clinical diagnosis of Long COVID and microbiome-related outcomes. Data was charted using a standardized form and synthesized narratively and descriptively.

RESULTS: A total of 62 sources were included, most of which were narrative, conceptual, or descriptive in nature. The available literature most frequently discussed gut microbiome dysbiosis in relation to Long COVID, including reduced abundance of beneficial taxa such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Bifidobacterium adolescentis, and increased abundance of opportunistic or pro-inflammatory taxa such as Ruminococcus gnavus and Clostridium innocuum. Reported or proposed associations involved fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms, neuropsychiatric manifestations, and immune dysregulation. Evidence from respiratory and oral microbiomes was more limited. Microbiome-targeted interventions, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, diet, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), were mainly proposed or discussed, with limited direct interventional evidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence suggests that microbiome alterations may be associated with Long COVID, but the available literature remains largely descriptive, observational, and hypothesis-generating. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are needed to clarify causality and determine whether microbiome-targeted strategies have therapeutic value.},
}

@article {pmid41770710,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Z and Li, X and Zhang, J},
title = {Research Progress of Sepsis Immunotherapy: A Bibliometric Analysis.},
journal = {Shock (Augusta, Ga.)},
volume = {66},
number = {4},
pages = {892-911},
doi = {10.1097/SHK.0000000000002826},
pmid = {41770710},
issn = {1540-0514},
mesh = {*Bibliometrics ; *Immunotherapy/methods ; Humans ; *Sepsis/therapy/immunology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Sepsis results in critical organ failure, considerable global mortality, and poses treatment obstacles. The primary issue with its pathophysiology is the improper functioning of the immune system in two phases: initially, there is excessive inflammation, followed by insufficient inflammation. This has generated interest in immunotherapy to restore the immune system to its normal state. This bibliometric analysis mapped the evolving research landscape of sepsis immunotherapy.

METHODS: Articles and reviews related to sepsis immunotherapy, published between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2025, in the Web of Science Core Collection, were retrieved, and bibliometric visualization analysis was performed using tools such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Scimago Graphica, Charticulator, and the R package bibliometrix.

RESULTS: A bibliometric analysis of 768 papers (2000-2025) indicates that the domain of sepsis immunotherapy research is seeing rapid expansion and dynamism. The annual publication rate is increasing exponentially, from an average of 11.3 per year (2000-2015) to 69.4 per year (2021-2025), reaching a peak of 79 in 2024. The United States tops the list with 246 articles and an H-index of 55, while China ranks second with 174 publications but exhibits a significantly lower citation impact. The analysis of collaborative networks reveals that the United States serves as a global hub with strong connections to China and European nations, while the European clusters maintain significant interconnections as well. The evolution of keywords delineates four distinct research phases: 2000-2005: focus on anti-inflammatory strategies targeting pivotal mediators such as tumor necrosis factor and cytokines; 2006-2012: shift toward acknowledging clinical complexity and immunosuppression while broadening research at the cellular level; 2013-2018: 2019-2025: in the context of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, a phase of integration and response to emerging challenges marked by diverse clinically oriented advancements in immunomodulation, diagnosis, and integrated management. Journals like Frontiers in Immunology published the most number of articles (58), while the 2016 Sepsis-3 Consensus by Singer et al. was the most cited reference, underscoring its considerable influence. Joint citation analysis revealed that the Global Burden Study 2020 and the Sepsis-3 Consensus by Rudd et al. were the pivotal publications with the highest citation counts and prevalence intensity, respectively, highlighting their significance as foundational sources of information.

CONCLUSIONS: This bibliometric analysis shows how quickly research on immunotherapy for sepsis is moving forward. It has gone from focusing on anti-inflammatory strategies to precision treatment methods based on biomarkers. The US is still the best at research results and influence, but the lack of coordination in international cooperation has made research move more slowly. Recent research domains, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and multiomics integration, suggest a progression towards personalized algorithms. To accomplish the best clinical results, the future focus must go beyond borders, strengthen translational research, and use drugs based on biomarkers.},
}

*Bibliometrics
*Immunotherapy/methods
Humans
*Sepsis/therapy/immunology

@article {pmid42314574,
year = {2026},
author = {Christen, P and Ahmed, MHA and Chua, BWB and Chaowanasawat, P and Chapman-Banks, E and Ozkan, Y and van Elsland, SL and Cori, A and K C, S and Whitaker, MD and Chadeau-Hyam, M and Dabak, SV and Jit, M},
title = {Measuring the growth of infectious disease modelling publications and their impact on policymaking: A large language model-assisted bibliometric review.},
journal = {Epidemics},
volume = {56},
number = {},
pages = {100926},
doi = {10.1016/j.epidem.2026.100926},
pmid = {42314574},
issn = {1878-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Bibliometrics ; Large Language Models ; *Policy Making ; *Communicable Diseases/epidemiology ; *Health Policy ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Publications/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Infectious disease modelling (IDM) is increasingly used to understand disease transmission and inform public health policy. Its growth and influence on policy have not been quantified, partly due to the large volume of literature. Using a large language model (LLM)-assisted review, we quantified the expansion of IDM publications, trends in policy citations, and regional disparities in research contributions and uptake.

METHODS: An LLM-assisted bibliometric review was conducted in Embase, Medline, and Scopus, identifying IDM publications to December 2024 via GPT-4o (OpenAI). Eligible studies employed mathematical, statistical, or mechanistic models for infectious disease outcomes. LLM accuracy was iteratively refined through human review. We extracted publication metadata, geographic scope, and policy citations via Overton, a global database of policy documents. Growth trends were analysed using negative binomial regression; geographic disparities were assessed by World Bank income classifications.

RESULTS: We identified 33,255 IDM publications over 44 years, with distinct growth phases. Publication volume rose with the emergence of HIV/AIDS, expanded through successive outbreaks (Ebola, SARS, H1N1, MERS, Zika), surged just before COVID-19, then declined after 2021. Policy citations accounted for 1.7% of IDM publications, mirroring overall growth and peaking during periods of heightened public health attention. Citations largely reflected national research outputs, with some cross-regional adoption of IDM evidence.

CONCLUSION: Strengthening IDM's policy impact may require fostering collaboration pu and improving uptake mechanisms. Post-COVID-19, policy citations declined despite continued IDM growth, suggesting a lag or shift in priorities.},
}

Humans
*Bibliometrics
Large Language Models
*Policy Making
*Communicable Diseases/epidemiology
*Health Policy
COVID-19/epidemiology
*Publications/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42612464,
year = {2026},
author = {Hermann, E and Krammer, F},
title = {The return of H1N1: Reemergence of the influenza virus A subtype H1N1 in 1977.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {91},
number = {},
pages = {128963},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128963},
pmid = {42612464},
issn = {1873-2518},
mesh = {*Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/isolation & purification ; Humans ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology/prevention & control/virology/history ; History, 20th Century ; Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage ; United States/epidemiology ; *Disease Outbreaks ; *Pandemics ; *Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology/virology ; },
abstract = {Four major influenza pandemics and two notable outbreaks have been recorded since 1900. This paper discusses the history of the 1977 influenza virus A H1N1 outbreak and re-emergence, often referred to as the "Russian flu" or the "red flu". We describe the likely events leading to the outbreak, including a brief history of the 1976 H1N1 outbreak in a military base in the United States. We reconstruct the spread of the H1N1 virus across the globe in 1977-1978 and discuss the epidemiology of the outbreak. We describe the likely origins of this unusual outbreak mainly affecting young people, including opinions and evidence pointing towards an unnatural origin. Finally, we outline the vaccines developed and vaccination campaigns that were carried out to combat the outbreak.},
}

*Influenza A Virus, H1N1 Subtype/isolation & purification
Humans
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology/prevention & control/virology/history
History, 20th Century
Influenza Vaccines/immunology/administration & dosage
United States/epidemiology
*Disease Outbreaks
*Pandemics
*Communicable Diseases, Emerging/epidemiology/virology

@article {pmid42713642,
year = {2026},
author = {Reed, SD and Russell, LB and Kim, DD and Bellows, BK and Hager, K and Wright, DR and Volpp, KG},
title = {Assessing Value of Behavioral Interventions: Designing Cost-Effectiveness Analyses for Food-Is-Medicine Interventions.},
journal = {Circulation. Population health and outcomes},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {e013570},
doi = {10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.126.013570},
pmid = {42713642},
issn = {3068-563X},
abstract = {Food-is-Medicine (FIM) interventions, including medically tailored meals, medically tailored groceries, and produce prescriptions, represent a promising approach to prevent, manage, and treat diet-related diseases. As the evidence base for FIM interventions expands through large-scale randomized trials, standardized value assessment frameworks will be essential to inform coverage and reimbursement decisions. Using FIM interventions as examples, this article provides guidance on economic evaluation methods, particularly cost-effectiveness analysis. We further discuss emerging methodological approaches in cost-effectiveness analysis for capturing broader nonhealth impacts of FIM interventions, such as productivity, spillover effects on others, and health equity. We offer methodological and reporting recommendations to improve comparability across economic evaluations of FIM interventions. Finally, we examine coverage challenges in the United States health system to underscore the importance of collaboration among providers, patients, researchers, and policymakers to generate rigorous, decision-relevant evidence on the value of FIM interventions.},
}

@article {pmid42714459,
year = {2026},
author = {Şöhret, T and Gürçayir, D},
title = {Burnout in a high-risk environment: A bibliometric analysis of worldwide burnout research in the operating room.},
journal = {Work (Reading, Mass.)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10519815261485999},
doi = {10.1177/10519815261485999},
pmid = {42714459},
issn = {1875-9270},
abstract = {BackgroundOperating rooms expose healthcare professionals to a high risk of burnout, yet the scientific literature on this topic has not been comprehensively analyzed from a bibliometric perspective.ObjectiveThis study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis of research on burnout in the operating room setting indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection to identify research trends, thematic focuses, and patterns of scientific production.MethodsA bibliometric analysis of Web of Science-indexed literature was conducted using the search terms ("operating room" OR "operating theatre") AND "burnout". A total of 290 English-language articles and reviews published up to January 2026 were analyzed using bibliometrix/biblioshiny in R to assess publication trends, authorship and collaboration patterns, leading countries and journals, and research themes.ResultsThe analyzed publications spanned from 1995 to 2026, with a marked increase after 2020, comprising 290 documents and an annual growth rate of 3.61%. The most frequent keywords were "burnout" (6.91%) and "operating room" (5.18%). Research articles accounted for most publications (84.14%), and the United States was the leading contributor (37.93%). Keyword co-occurrence and thematic analyses showed that burnout, operating room, nursing, patient safety, and teamwork were the principal research themes, whereas resilience and well-being represented specialized themes, and ergonomics and COVID-19 emerged as developing research topics.ConclusionsBurnout in the operating room has become an important research focus with implications for patient safety and care quality. This study highlights research gaps and informs future research and policy development.},
}

@article {pmid42715931,
year = {2026},
author = {Ouédraogo, AM and Laprise, C and Blair, DL and Richter, S and Ishola, F and Pollock, NJ and Tonmyr, L},
title = {Child maltreatment and harsh parenting in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review of the epidemiological evidence, methodological and data gaps, and recommendations for strengthening public health data.},
journal = {Child abuse & neglect},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {108304},
doi = {10.1016/j.chiabu.2026.108304},
pmid = {42715931},
issn = {1873-7757},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic caused widespread disruptions to social relationships and caregiving responsibilities, potentially modifying risks for child maltreatment (CM) and harsh parenting (HP). However, the impact of the pandemic on the epidemiology of CM and HP is unclear.

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this scoping review were to summarize evidence on the epidemiology of CM and HP in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic, assess the quality of the included evidence to support the interpretation of the findings, and synthesize published recommendations to strengthen data.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic search of five bibliographic databases and Statistics Canada's website for relevant Canadian studies published between January 1, 2020 and July 4, 2024. We summarized the findings with descriptive statistics and a narrative review, and assessed study quality using an adapted version of the Evidence-Based Social Services Critical Thinking Tool.

RESULTS: Twenty-seven studies were included; 81.5% reported on CM. Administrative data indicated fewer referrals to child protection services and hospital visits, but increases in police-reported family violence against children. The quality of studies was negatively impacted by non-representative samples, unstandardized measures, and limited use of pre-pandemic baseline data.

CONCLUSIONS: Due to the lack of reliable and continuous data about CM/HP, governments and researchers in Canada collaborated to improve data infrastructure and better understand the pandemic's impact on the health and wellbeing of children and youth. New data sources were developed to enhance the quality of CM/HP measures and support ongoing public health surveillance. Sustained collaboration among interest-holders and continued efforts to strengthen existing data are necessary to assess the pandemic's long-term effects and prepare to monitor the impacts of future public health emergencies.},
}

@article {pmid42716325,
year = {2026},
author = {Sakellaropoulos, SG and Spedicato, V and Pfister, O},
title = {Exercise Lactate in Post-COVID-19 Condition: Pathophysiological Signal, Phenotyping Tool, or Candidate Biomarker? A Narrative Review with a Hypothesis-Generating Clinical Observation.},
journal = {Current problems in cardiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {103453},
doi = {10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2026.103453},
pmid = {42716325},
issn = {1535-6280},
abstract = {Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC), commonly termed long COVID, is a heterogeneous multisystem disorder in which fatigue, exertional dyspnoea, post-exertional symptom exacerbation, and reduced exercise tolerance are prominent. No single laboratory measurement currently confirms or excludes PCC. Because lactate integrates glycolytic flux, pyruvate oxidation, muscle recruitment, oxygen delivery and extraction, adrenergic drive, and clearance by the liver and other tissues, exercise-associated lactate has attracted interest as a potential marker of impaired bioenergetics in PCC. This narrative review evaluates the physiological rationale and clinical evidence for lactate assessment at rest and during exercise in adults with PCC and places a descriptive observation from 22 patients assessed in our clinic into that context. Cardiopulmonary exercise testing studies demonstrate reduced peak oxygen uptake in many symptomatic individuals, although reported mechanisms include deconditioning, dysfunctional breathing, chronotropic incompetence, preload failure, impaired systemic oxygen extraction, autonomic dysfunction, and peripheral or mitochondrial abnormalities. Small mechanistic studies have reported higher exercise lactate, reduced calculated fat oxidation, altered skeletal-muscle metabolism, or more importantly impaired mitochondrial function. In our uncontrolled clinical series, mean arterial lactate increased from 1.23 ± 0.40 mmol/L at rest to 7.11 ± 2.98 mmol/L at peak exercise; the marked difference between testing protocols underscores the methodological dependence of peak values. Overall findings are heterogeneous, populations are selected, and lactate is strongly dependent on achieved work rate, exercise duration, phenotype, medications, nutritional state, and sampling time. Peak lactate alone therefore lacks the specificity, standardization, and validated thresholds required for diagnosis. Its most promising role is as one component of a standardized metabolic exercise phenotype, interpreted alongside work rate, oxygen uptake, ventilatory thresholds, respiratory exchange ratio, symptoms, and recovery kinetics. Controlled prospective studies are required before clinical implementation.},
}

@article {pmid41588895,
year = {2026},
author = {Deshpande, NA and Shaikh, SA and Khode, A},
title = {A Patent Review on the Use of Thymosin Peptides Against Viruses.},
journal = {Recent advances in anti-infective drug discovery},
volume = {21},
number = {2},
pages = {79-90},
doi = {10.2174/0127724344411797251205091136},
pmid = {41588895},
issn = {2772-4352},
mesh = {Humans ; *Thymosin/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *Patents as Topic ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Animals ; *SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; Peptides ; },
abstract = {Thymosins are a group of immunomodulatory peptides secreted by the thymus. They play an important role in immune function by inducing T-cell expression and inhibiting viral replication. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic caused by coronavirus, there has been renewed interest in their activity, resulting in a revival of patents claiming the use of thymosin to combat coronavirus. This article reviews patents on the therapeutic application of thymosin peptides against viruses. Conventionally, thymosin is administered via injection or infusion; however, recent research has explored alternative routes, including oral formulations. Thymosin administration is used to complement antiviral drug treatments. Similarly, recent antiviral regimens against SARS-CoV-2 may be supplemented with thymosin based on its proven immunopotentiating activity.},
}

Humans
*Thymosin/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*Patents as Topic
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology/administration & dosage
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Animals
*SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
Peptides

@article {pmid42709284,
year = {2026},
author = {Grattoni, A and Paci, MM and Arnold, N and Aryal, S and Artzi, N and Bao, G and Barcena, AJR and Bentov-Arava, E and Blanco, E and Chua, CYX and Corradetti, B and Cryer, AM and Decuzzi, P and De Giorgi, M and Fell, C and Gao, W and Govindaswamy, B and Jiang, W and Kara, G and King, MR and Krishnan, S and Lagor, WR and Lammers, T and Larsen, J and Manfredi, F and Manickam, DS and Margulis, K and Melancon, MP and Meeuwissen, S and Miller, MA and Mitchell, MJ and Mitragotri, S and Mojiri, A and Cooke, JP and Palanki, R and Phukan, I and Sun, X and Stayton, PS and Tanifum, EA and Veiseh, O and Villapol, S and Wang, J and Williams, R and Arancibia, RY and Zhang, L and Kabanov, A and Godin, B},
title = {Nanomedicine beyond carriers - devices, cells & living therapeutics.},
journal = {Biomedical microdevices},
volume = {28},
number = {3},
pages = {},
pmid = {42709284},
issn = {1572-8781},
mesh = {Humans ; *Nanomedicine/methods ; Animals ; Drug Carriers/chemistry ; Drug Delivery Systems ; Immunotherapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Nanoparticles/chemistry ; COVID-19 ; },
abstract = {Nanomedicine has progressed far beyond its early role as an experimental drug-carrier toolbox and today stands as a clinically validated enabling technology. Liposomal formulations and albumin-bound nanoparticles have transformed cancer therapy, while lipid nanoparticle (LNP) platforms accelerated the rapid development and global deployment of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines-demonstrating how nanoscale engineering can reshape therapeutic response, manufacturing speed, and public health impact. With these successes as foundation, the field is rapidly expanding into more sophisticated delivery systems including cell-hitchhiking nanoparticles, biomimetic multivalent vaccines, implantable immunotherapy depots, high-loading polymeric micelles, organ-targeted gene and RNA carriers, and bio-hybrid extracellular vesicle and mitochondrial therapies. These platforms aim not only to transport drugs, but to modulate immunity, direct regeneration, and enable precision intervention at the cellular and molecular scale. This perspective summarizes the current landscape of biomedical nanotechnologies and outlines how their continued evolution positions nanomedicine as an enabling science driving the next generation of therapeutics.},
}

Humans
*Nanomedicine/methods
Animals
Drug Carriers/chemistry
Drug Delivery Systems
Immunotherapy
SARS-CoV-2
Nanoparticles/chemistry
COVID-19

@article {pmid42711057,
year = {2026},
author = {Pickering, A and Wise, PH and Maldonado, YB},
title = {Pediatric Vaccination and Pandemic Preparedness in Humanitarian Settings.},
journal = {Pediatric clinics of North America},
volume = {73},
number = {5},
pages = {953-964},
doi = {10.1016/j.pcl.2026.04.006},
pmid = {42711057},
issn = {1557-8240},
mesh = {Humans ; *Pandemic Preparedness ; *Pandemics/prevention & control ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Vaccination ; Child ; Global Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Disease outbreaks are increasing in frequency and complexity, disproportionately affecting children in humanitarian settings. Large numbers of zero-dose children live in conflict-affected contexts, heightening vulnerability to vaccine-preventable and emerging viral diseases. Effective pediatric vaccination and pandemic preparedness require integrated, context-adapted strategies encompassing community engagement, infodemic management, resilient delivery systems, service integration, and reliable surveillance. Innovations such as mobile teams, novel financing, and improved data coordination offer promise but require stronger evidence. Lessons from coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) underscore persistent inequities and the need for ethical, data-driven, and One Health-informed approaches to protect children's right to health and strengthen global health security.},
}

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

@article {pmid42711060,
year = {2026},
author = {Merrick, MT and Klika, JB},
title = {Child Abuse and Neglect Risk in Times of Crisis.},
journal = {Pediatric clinics of North America},
volume = {73},
number = {5},
pages = {997-1006},
doi = {10.1016/j.pcl.2026.04.009},
pmid = {42711060},
issn = {1557-8240},
mesh = {Humans ; *Child Abuse/prevention & control/statistics & numerical data ; Child ; Medical Neglect ; Risk Factors ; *Economic Recession ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Child abuse and neglect impacts millions of children each year, and the many detrimental impacts on health, well-being, and the economy persist across the lifespan and intergenerationally. Risk and protective factors make child abuse and neglect more or less likely, but during humanitarian crises like economic downturns and health crises, the context and conditions are ripe for increased risk of perpetration and victimization. Prevention is possible when we take a public health approach, and every sector assures the conditions that bolster families, like concrete and economic supports, access to mental health services, and coordinated, aligned ecosystems.},
}

Humans
*Child Abuse/prevention & control/statistics & numerical data
Child
Medical Neglect
Risk Factors
*Economic Recession
*COVID-19/epidemiology

@article {pmid42711184,
year = {2026},
author = {Martín-Noguerol, T and Escartín, J and Vidal-Cameán, C and Díaz-Carreño, JR and López-Úbeda, P and Luna, A},
title = {Are Radiology Departments Ready for the Current Underlying Obesity Pandemic? A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Academic radiology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.acra.2026.08.109},
pmid = {42711184},
issn = {1878-4046},
abstract = {RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, forcing radiology departments to rapidly adapt their infrastructure, workflows, and diagnostic practices. In contrast, obesity represents a chronic and growing global pandemic affecting more than one billion people worldwide. This review examines whether radiology departments are adequately prepared to meet the technical, operational, and safety challenges associated with imaging patients with obesity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A narrative review of the literature was conducted to evaluate the impact of obesity on diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology. Key topics included equipment limitations, image quality, radiation dose optimization, patient and staff safety, workflow efficiency, and procedural challenges.

RESULTS: Obesity affects virtually every stage of the radiological workflow. Technical limitations include gantry size restrictions, table weight limits, and difficulties in patient positioning. Increased tissue attenuation frequently requires higher radiation exposures and can reduce image quality through increased noise, photon starvation, truncation artifacts, and decreased contrast resolution. MRI examinations are further constrained by bore dimensions and specific absorption rate limits. In interventional radiology, obesity is associated with more challenging vascular access, longer procedure times, increased operator radiation exposure, and higher complication rates. Operationally, these patients often require extended appointment slots, specialized transfer equipment, and trained personnel, placing additional demands on departmental resources and potentially contributing to inequities in access to imaging services.

CONCLUSION: The obesity pandemic poses substantial technical, safety, diagnostic, and operational challenges for radiology departments. Addressing these issues requires investment in obesity-adapted equipment, optimized imaging protocols, specialized staff training, and workflow redesign to ensure safe, effective, and equitable imaging care for this rapidly expanding patient population.},
}

@article {pmid42711203,
year = {2026},
author = {Zeichner, EH and Familusi, OO and Flook, E and Scribano, P},
title = {Pediatric tele-behavioral health: history, evidence, barriers, and emerging directions.},
journal = {Current problems in pediatric and adolescent health care},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {101974},
doi = {10.1016/j.cppeds.2026.101974},
pmid = {42711203},
issn = {1538-3199},
abstract = {There has been an increasing prevalence of mental and behavioral health conditions in children and adolescents in the United States, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, many youth struggle to access behavioral health care. Tele-behavioral health, the delivery of mental health services through videoconferencing and other digital technologies, has emerged as a strategy to facilitate access. There is broad evidence supporting clinical effectiveness of tele-behavioral health across multiple psychiatric and behavioral health conditions. Multiple established care models exist for the delivery of tele-behavioral health. Here, we discuss key facilitators and barriers to implementation of tele-behavioral health, with important considerations including clinical appropriateness, provider training, and organizational support, in addition to essential safety and confidentiality considerations in care delivery with children and adolescents. There are also health equity implications in the use of tele-behavioral health, which can potentially reduce disparities in access to behavioral health care. However, important considerations remain to ensure that telehealth use is accessible and does not exacerbate inequities. Finally, there are emerging directions in the field of tele-behavioral health, particularly in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI).},
}

@article {pmid42712262,
year = {2026},
author = {Hayes, AW and Marini, AM and Pressman, P},
title = {The New Battlefield: Food, Water, and the Evolution of Asymmetric Terror.},
journal = {International journal of toxicology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {10915818261474825},
doi = {10.1177/10915818261474825},
pmid = {42712262},
issn = {1092-874X},
abstract = {This review examines the historical development of biological warfare from premodern contamination practices to twentieth-century state programs, post-9/11 bioterrorism, and the renewed prominence of biological risk in the COVID-19 era. Drawing on historical, policy, and public-health scholarship, it shows how disease came to be understood not only as a natural threat but also as a strategic instrument shaped by scientific knowledge, military organization, and administrative secrecy. The review traces the transition from empirical uses of contamination in siege warfare and colonial settings to laboratory-based weaponization in the 20th century, including German sabotage during the First World War, Imperial Japan's Unit 731, British anthrax trials on Gruinard Island, and the expansion of United States and Soviet biological warfare programs during the Cold War. It also evaluates the limits of international restraint through the 1925 Geneva Protocol and the 1972 Biological Weapons Convention, emphasizing the persistent problem of verification illustrated by the 1979 Sverdlovsk anthrax outbreak. The analysis then follows the shift from state arsenals to public fear through Aum Shinrikyo and the 2001 anthrax letters before situating epidemic and pandemic disease within the broader politics of biological vulnerability. COVID-19 and gain-of-function research are treated as cases of intensified scrutiny of biosafety, uncertainty, and public mistrust, rather than evidence for any single-origin hypothesis. The review concludes that biological warfare is best understood not solely as the deliberate use of pathogens but as a broader political and institutional phenomenon emerging where scientific capacity, strategic fear, concealment, and social vulnerability converge.},
}

@article {pmid42712409,
year = {2026},
author = {Mirza, KM and Rao, A and Baker, JA and Parker, RK and Quinonez, SC and Njenga, P and Saleh, M and Balis, UG and Waljee, AK and Sayed, S},
title = {Bridging the digital pathology divide: reciprocal learning between high-resource and low-resource settings.},
journal = {BMJ digital health & AI},
volume = {2},
number = {1},
pages = {e000026},
pmid = {42712409},
issn = {3049-575X},
abstract = {Digital pathology (DP) represents a major advance in global health, integrating digital whole-slide imaging, telepathology and clinical-grade artificial intelligence into cohesive workflows that can improve diagnostic accuracy and educational access. Realising these gains, however, depends on local infrastructure, governance, reimbursement and workforce capacity. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated DP uptake in some settings, but adoption remains highly uneven between high-resource settings (HRS) and low-resource settings (LRS), reflecting unequal infrastructure, workforce, policy and financing. This analysis contends that reciprocal innovation, a model of ongoing two-way learning between HRS and LRS that is distinct from one-way technology transfer, can accelerate DP adoption by leveraging the strengths of each environment. Drawing on examples from HRS and LRS, we examine use cases in education and clinical practice, the adoption barriers that persist and policy mechanisms required for sustainable scaling. While HRS contribute regulatory frameworks, validation standards and mentorship, LRS offer innovations in cost efficiency, workflow resilience and open-source adaptation that can inform more sustainable models globally. Neither HRS nor LRS are homogeneous entities. Resource availability also varies substantially within each category: HRS may contain poorly resourced institutions, while some institutions in LRS may have comparatively greater resources but still face broader system-level infrastructure constraints. Ensuring access to those in LRS requires targeted investment, harmonised standards and mutual learning across resource levels. DP has the potential to foster bidirectional partnerships to democratise access to timely, accurate and patient-centred pathology services across all resource settings.},
}

@article {pmid42713005,
year = {2026},
author = {Belaidi, AA and Furtado, DL and Alves, F and Nisbet, RM and Ayton, S and Bush, AI},
title = {Engineering mRNA-LNP Medicines for the Ageing Brain: Opportunities and Challenges for Neurodegenerative Diseases.},
journal = {Exploration (Beijing, China)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {70223},
pmid = {42713005},
issn = {2766-2098},
abstract = {Messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics delivered by lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have advanced from concept to clinic at unprecedented speed, yet their promise for neurodegenerative diseases remains largely untapped. Currently intractable age-related proteinopathies such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis demand new therapies that combine molecular precision with scalable manufacturing. This review surveys recent advances in engineering LNPs that traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB), evade innate immune surveillance, and achieve cell-selective expression in the ageing brain. We highlight emerging chemistries, including BBB-shuttling ionizable lipids, peptide-functionalized shells, and liver-detargeted formulations that enable systemic or minimally invasive delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) in animal models. Although no CNS-directed mRNA-LNP has yet reached clinical trials, first-in-human studies for rare metabolic disorders demonstrate favourable safety, manufacturability, and durable protein replacement. Drawing lessons from COVID-19 mRNA vaccines and ongoing liver-targeted programmes, we outline a translational roadmap for brain applications. Major hurdles that are critically assessed include efficient endosomal escape in aged neurons, heterogeneity of the senescent BBB, chronic-dose immunogenicity, and large-scale synthesis of next-generation lipids. Finally, we propose design rules and analytical standards to address outstanding knowledge gaps in expression durability and age-related BBB alterations. Together, these insights chart a path for engineering mRNA-LNP therapeutics capable of meeting the rising burden of neurodegenerative diseases in an ageing global population.},
}

@article {pmid42713225,
year = {2026},
author = {Wu, H and Weng, R and Gu, S and Wang, J and Ma, X and Li, J and Tie, X and Huang, C and Chen, K},
title = {Therapeutic mRNA vaccines for lung cancer: reshaping the tumor microenvironment to enhance anti-tumor immunity.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1916788},
pmid = {42713225},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Tumor Microenvironment/immunology ; *Lung Neoplasms/immunology/therapy ; *Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use ; *mRNA Vaccines/immunology ; Animals ; Immunotherapy/methods ; Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics ; },
abstract = {Traditional treatments for lung cancer include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies (such as Erlotinib, Gefitinib, and Crizotinib), as well as immunotherapy (such as Nivolumab and Pembrolizumab). However, these approaches face challenges such as drug resistance, limited efficacy, and significant side effects, making it difficult to improve long-term prognosis. Therefore, tumor vaccines, as a novel immunotherapy strategy, have become a focus of research, aiming to precisely activate anti-tumor immune responses and address the shortcomings of existing treatments. In recent years, mRNA vaccine technology has developed rapidly, especially following the successful application of COVID-19 vaccines, demonstrating its immense potential for rapid development and large-scale production. mRNA cancer vaccines induce durable anti-tumor immune responses and reshape the tumor microenvironment by delivering mRNA encoding tumor-specific antigens, enabling targeted therapy. Through the dual synergistic pathways of direct local modulation by the vector/encoded factors and secondary effects mediated by antigen-specific T-cell activation, the tumor microenvironment is reshaped, thereby inducing durable antitumor immune responses. Against this background, this review systematically evaluates the current status and prospects of mRNA vaccines in lung cancer treatment, with a focus on their progress in precisely modulating the tumor microenvironment, identifying novel tumor antigens, discovering immune biomarkers, and related clinical studies. Additionally, the review discusses the process optimization of lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery systems, aiming to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the development of safe and effective therapeutic vaccine platforms for lung cancer.},
}

Humans
*Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
*Lung Neoplasms/immunology/therapy
*Cancer Vaccines/immunology/therapeutic use
*mRNA Vaccines/immunology
Animals
Immunotherapy/methods
Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology/genetics

@article {pmid42274978,
year = {2026},
author = {Shadman, M and Munir, T and Xu, S and Yang, K and Mohseninejad, L and Guthrie, G and Hirata, J and Lefebure, M and Williams, R and Tam, CS},
title = {Indirect Comparison of the Efficacy of Zanubrutinib vs Ibrutinib and Acalabrutinib in Treatment-Naive Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: 6-Year Follow-Up.},
journal = {Advances in therapy},
volume = {43},
number = {9},
pages = {4042-4059},
pmid = {42274978},
issn = {1865-8652},
mesh = {Aged ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Adenine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives ; Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use ; *Benzamides/therapeutic use ; Follow-Up Studies ; *Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy/mortality ; *Piperidines/therapeutic use ; *Pyrazines/therapeutic use ; Pyrazoles/therapeutic use ; *Pyrimidines/therapeutic use ; Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Zanubrutinib, acalabrutinib, and ibrutinib each demonstrated improved investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS-INV) and overall survival (OS) versus chemotherapy-based regimens in treatment-naive chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the phase 3 trials SEQUOIA (NCT03336333), ELEVATE-TN (NCT02475681), and RESONATE-2 (NCT01722487), respectively. In the absence of head-to-head studies, this analysis compared the efficacy of zanubrutinib vs ibrutinib and vs acalabrutinib in treatment-naive CLL via indirect naive comparisons.

METHODS: Eligibility criteria were aligned to improve cross-trial comparability. The zanubrutinib vs ibrutinib comparison included COVID-19-adjusted PFS-INV and OS in arm A of SEQUOIA (n = 241; median follow-up, 73.4 months) and the ibrutinib arm of RESONATE-2 (n = 136; median follow-up, 88.5 months). The zanubrutinib vs acalabrutinib comparison included PFS-INV and OS in subgroups of patients without del(17p) and/or TP53 mutations from arm A of SEQUOIA (n = 215; median follow-up, 73.6 months) and the acalabrutinib arm of ELEVATE-TN (n = 156; median follow-up, 74.5 months).

RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were similar for each comparison. Zanubrutinib significantly prolonged PFS-INV (hazard ratio [HR], 0.65; 95% CI, 0.44-0.97; P = 0.0330) and showed a trend toward improved OS (HR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.36-1.01; P = 0.0532) vs ibrutinib. At the 72-month landmark, PFS-INV and OS rates were significantly higher with zanubrutinib vs ibrutinib, with a risk difference of 15.3% (95% CI, 8.3-22.2%) for PFS and 9.9% (95% CI, 3.0-16.7%) for OS. Compared with acalabrutinib, zanubrutinib trended toward improved PFS-INV (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.52-1.11; P = 0.1553) and OS (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.41-1.06; P = 0.0836). The 72-month landmark PFS-INV and OS rates were significantly higher with zanubrutinib vs acalabrutinib, with a risk difference of 9.9% (95% CI, 3.0-16.9%) for PFS-INV and 8.8% (95% CI, 2.0-15.5%) for OS.

CONCLUSION: These findings inform the long-term comparative efficacy of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors and suggest that zanubrutinib may confer sustained PFS and OS benefits compared with ibrutinib and acalabrutinib in similar treatment-naive CLL populations. Graphical abstract and video available for this article. Overview of the Comparative Efficacy of Covalent BTK Inhibitors in Treatment-Naïve CLL/SLL With Six-Year Follow-Up (MP4 345006 kb).},
}

Aged
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
*Adenine/analogs & derivatives/therapeutic use/analogs & derivatives
Antineoplastic Agents/therapeutic use
*Benzamides/therapeutic use
Follow-Up Studies
*Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell/drug therapy/mortality
*Piperidines/therapeutic use
*Pyrazines/therapeutic use
Pyrazoles/therapeutic use
*Pyrimidines/therapeutic use
Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic

@article {pmid42351103,
year = {2026},
author = {De Vita, E and Arzilli, G and Gesualdo, F and Casigliani, V and Pasquale, M and Cruschelli, G and Tecchio, F and Tosi, F and Porretta, AD and Romersi, D and Buquicchio, C and Rizzo, C},
title = {Mapping risk communication practices in public health emergencies: a scoping review and comparison with Italian regional pandemic plans.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42351103},
issn = {1471-2458},
support = {CUP I57G22000460005//Ministero della Salute/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Italy/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Public Health ; *Emergencies ; *Communication ; Pandemic Preparedness ; *Pandemics ; *Disaster Planning ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Effective risk communication is a cornerstone of public health emergency preparedness and response. The COVID-19 pandemic and other recent crises have highlighted both the centrality of communication in sustaining trust and compliance, and the persistent gap between theoretical frameworks and operational practice.

METHODS: Within the framework of the CreSP project (Comunicare il Rischio nelle Emergenze per la Sanità Pubblica), we conducted a scoping review to map international evidence on risk communication in public health emergencies, comparing it with Italian regional pandemic preparedness plans. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (1 January 2019-16 May 2024). Peer-reviewed studies addressing health risk communication in emergencies were included. In parallel, 18 Italian regional pandemic plans were identified and analysed using a structured checklist derived from inductive thematic analyses.

RESULTS: Of the 12,479 records identified, 173 studies were included. Most publications originated from high-income countries and focused on COVID-19 pandemic response. Mass communication strategies, especially via social media, predominated, while targeted and participatory approaches were less frequent. The emergency response phase was far more represented than the preparedness or post-emergency phases. Key principles such as timeliness, transparency, and trust were widely discussed across studies, whereas equity, citizen engagement, and infodemic management were less consistently operationalised. Analysis of Italian regional pandemic plans revealed substantial heterogeneity. Although communication was universally acknowledged as important, it was often framed as top-down information dissemination. Structured mechanisms for monitoring, evaluation, citizen participation, and infodemic management were inconsistently addressed.

CONCLUSIONS: Although the concept of emergency risk communication is well-developed, its implementation varies across different levels of governance. The misalignment between scientific evidence and institutional frameworks-particularly regarding inclusivity, participatory models, and infodemic management-underscores the need for a more integrated and standardised national approach. Incorporating communication into preparedness infrastructures, supported by measurable indicators and workforce capacity building, is essential to strengthen resilience, equity, and public trust in the event of future emergencies.},
}

Humans
Italy/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Public Health
*Emergencies
*Communication
Pandemic Preparedness
*Pandemics
*Disaster Planning

@article {pmid42703345,
year = {2026},
author = {He, X and Xie, J and Yang, X and Zhou, Y},
title = {The effects of virtual reality interventions on depression and anxiety in older adults during and after the COVID-19 pandemic: A meta-analysis.},
journal = {Digital health},
volume = {12},
number = {},
pages = {20552076261487229},
pmid = {42703345},
issn = {2055-2076},
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aims to systematically evaluate, through a meta-analysis, the effects of Virtual Reality (VR) interventions on depression and anxiety levels among older adults during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and to explore variations in the effectiveness of VR interventions under different conditions.

METHOD: Databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PsycINFO, CNKI, and Wanfang Data were searched. Studies were screened according to predefined inclusion criteria, and data on study characteristics and intervention outcomes were extracted. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the appropriate risk of bias tools, and meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.4.1 and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software.

RESULTS: A total of 12 studies involving 724 older adults aged 60 years and above were included. Compared with control conditions, VR interventions significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety among older adults. Exploratory subgroup analyses indicated that fully immersive VR was associated with a more pronounced pooled effect than semi- and low-immersive VR. Both shorter (<6 weeks) and longer (≥6 weeks) VR interventions were associated with significant improvements in anxiety and depressive symptoms, with no statistically significant difference between the duration subgroups.

CONCLUSION: During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, VR interventions may represent a promising complementary non-pharmacological approach for improving depressive and anxiety symptoms among older adults. Exploratory findings suggest that immersion level may contribute to variability in intervention effects; however, these findings should be interpreted cautiously given the limited available evidence. Further high-quality, large-sample randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to clarify the potential influence of intervention characteristics on VR efficacy.},
}

@article {pmid42703559,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, S and Liu, Y and Liu, C},
title = {Global Research Landscape and Clinical Hotspots in COPD-OSA Overlap Syndrome: A Bibliometric and Visualization Analysis.},
journal = {International journal of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease},
volume = {21},
number = {},
pages = {636134},
pmid = {42703559},
issn = {1178-2005},
mesh = {*Bibliometrics ; *Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/therapy/epidemiology/physiopathology/diagnosis ; Humans ; *Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/therapy/epidemiology/physiopathology/diagnosis ; *Biomedical Research/trends ; Syndrome ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study systematically depicts the global research landscape, knowledge base, and thematic evolution of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease combined with obstructive sleep apnea overlap syndrome (COPD-OSA overlap syndrome), providing a reference for subsequent research and clinical translation.

METHODS: Relevant literature published between 2000 and 2025 was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, Scopus, and PubMed databases. Records from Web of Science and Scopus were merged and deduplicated to construct the primary bibliometric dataset, while PubMed was analyzed separately as a supplementary source for cross-database comparison using keywords and MeSH terms. Bibliometrix, VOSviewer, and CiteSpace were used to analyze research output, collaboration networks, core sources, co-citation structure, and research hotspots. A latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) model was applied to identify latent topics and their temporal trends.

RESULTS: The primary dataset included 1239 publications, with an average annual growth rate of 20.62%; publication volume increased markedly after 2017. The United States, China, and Italy ranked highest in publication count, yet the overall international co-authorship rate was only 6.3%. The field's knowledge base centers on nocturnal hypoxemia, cardiovascular outcomes, acute exacerbations, and positive airway pressure therapy. The LDA model identified 10 latent topics, with two showing significant upward trends (COVID-19 with OSA; acute cardiovascular events and adipose tissue) and one showing a downward trend (anthropometry and lung function parameters). The 274 PubMed-included articles complemented cross-database comparisons and indicated growing attention to cognitive function, oxygen saturation, and digital screening.

CONCLUSION: Research on COPD-OSA overlap syndrome is shifting from describing disease coexistence toward complex multimorbidity, risk stratification, and individualized management. However, international collaboration and high-level clinical evidence remain insufficient. Future work should standardize case definitions, establish multicenter longitudinal cohorts, and conduct phenotype-based treatment studies.},
}

*Bibliometrics
*Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive/therapy/epidemiology/physiopathology/diagnosis
Humans
*Sleep Apnea, Obstructive/therapy/epidemiology/physiopathology/diagnosis
*Biomedical Research/trends
Syndrome

@article {pmid42704107,
year = {2026},
author = {Song, A and Jia, P and Luo, J and Pang, X and He, Y and Tang, YW},
title = {Machine learning-enabled wastewater-based surveillance for emerging pathogen detection and monitoring: current applications, challenges, and future prospects.},
journal = {Emerging microbes & infections},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2731499},
doi = {10.1080/22221751.2026.2731499},
pmid = {42704107},
issn = {2222-1751},
abstract = {AbstractWastewater-based surveillance (WBS) has become an important public-health tool for tracking community-level circulation of emerging and re-emerging pathogens, but wastewater measurements are not directly interpretable public-health indicators. Signals recovered from sewer systems are shaped by sampling variability, environmental and laboratory noise, population-dependent bias, and high-dimensional molecular complexity. Machine learning (ML) is increasingly used to extract predictive and decision-relevant information from these data, but the strength of the supporting evidence varies substantially. This narrative review examines how strongly current applications are supported by published evidence. Sources were identified through iterative searches of three literature-search sources updated to June 2026 and classified by role, analytical task, and strength of evidence. To keep the analytical scope consistent, we use a pragmatic four-layer classification: classical statistical models, conventional machine learning, deep learning, and hybrid or mechanistically informed approaches. Applications are reviewed across five analytical tasks: predictive modeling and forecasting, anomaly and fluctuation detection, data harmonization and normalization, high-dimensional interpretation, and integrated decision support. Among 35 sources reporting analytical or modeling work, 25 analyzed SARS-CoV-2 alone; demonstrated early-warning evidence came predominantly from L1 methods, and most target-task combinations remain prospective. Even within SARS-CoV-2 surveillance, reported performance was context-dependent. We examine the data-quality, methodological, and implementation barriers that limit broader application and validation. Future priorities include standardized and collaborative frameworks, multimodal data fusion, mechanistic and digital-twin modeling with explicit uncertainty assessment, and transparent and actionable analytics, with broader surveillance applications constrained by governance and public acceptability.},
}

@article {pmid42705167,
year = {2026},
author = {Ugwu, OP and Okon, MB and Ogenyi, FC and Ugwu, JN and Ugwu, CN},
title = {Digital twins and explainable AI across the vaccine life cycle: from mRNA manufacturing to thermostability, cold-chain logistics, and immunisation services.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {92},
number = {},
pages = {129131},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.129131},
pmid = {42705167},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {The COVID-19 era accelerated the deployment of mRNA vaccines while exposing persistent weaknesses in manufacturing, thermostability and cold-chain systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This narrative review, informed by an explicit search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, IEEE Xplore and the ACM Digital Library (2019-2025), synthesises over 50 studies of digital twins (DTs) and explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) across the vaccine life cycle. The evidence indicates that DTs are progressing from static simulations to operational twins for plasmid-to-mRNA production, supporting virtual commissioning, rapid scale-up and real-time optimisation. In parallel, XAI-enabled approaches improve stability prediction, and artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) architectures strengthen cold-chain monitoring and route planning. At the service level, twins of mass vaccination centres and primary-care immunisation services can improve throughput and temperature management; however, current implementations are often siloed, weakly validated and rarely designed with equity considerations. Priorities for the field include integrated, multi-scale 'vaccine system twins', rigorous validation, effective human-AI collaboration and deployment strategies tailored to LMIC contexts.},
}

@article {pmid42706908,
year = {2026},
author = {Matoshi, H and Billings, J and Janse Van Rensburg, M and Tekin, S},
title = {Exploring the experiences, views, and needs of family members of emergency response workers: a systematic review and meta-synthesis.},
journal = {European journal of psychotraumatology},
volume = {17},
number = {1},
pages = {2713266},
doi = {10.1080/20008066.2026.2713266},
pmid = {42706908},
issn = {2000-8066},
mesh = {Humans ; *Family/psychology ; *Emergency Responders/psychology ; Paramedics ; Adaptation, Psychological ; Mental Health ; },
abstract = {Background: Emergency responders, including firefighters, police officers, and paramedics, face workplace challenges that may harm their well-being. They typically rely on family members for support, which may have damaging effects on the family system. While the experiences of emergency responders are well established, their families' subsequent struggles are less well explored.Objective: This review explores the experiences, views, and needs of family members, through determining the mental health and well-being issues that they face, and establishing ways in which family members could be supported.Method: We searched five databases (MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, Scopus, and ProQuest) for qualitative papers exploring experiences of family members of emergency responders. Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, and data were meta-synthesized using thematic analysis.Results: Six themes and two subthemes were identified from the meta-synthesis. 'Experiences of emotional strain' reflected worry over safety and coping with volatile moods. 'Increased responsibilities' involved safeguarding emergency responders' well-being and managing household duties, at the expense of family members' own needs. Families felt 'devoted yet invisible', with sacrifices overlooked by both emergency responders and society. 'Impacts on the family dynamic' included relational detachment and frustration. 'Support for emergency responder families' from fellow emergency responder families was valued, but organizational support was limited. 'Media portrayal and societal perceptions' varied, as police families faced hostility, while firefighter and paramedic families garnered respect, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.Conclusions: This review highlights that family members play a central role in maintaining the well-being of emergency responders, yet simultaneously face hardships associated with their family member's work and feel undervalued despite their support. This lack of recognition extends to limited professional support. There is a critical need for targeted mental health interventions to support family members, alongside family support measures from emergency responder organizations to assist with the practical difficulties faced by families.},
}

Humans
*Family/psychology
*Emergency Responders/psychology
Paramedics
Adaptation, Psychological
Mental Health

@article {pmid42707764,
year = {2026},
author = {Mao, L and Wang, S and Bai, Y and Cheng, S and Gao, K and Chang, Y and Li, L and Guo, Y and Gao, M},
title = {IFITM3 at the viral fusion-pore checkpoint: membrane energetics and entry-route-dependent outcomes.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1928879},
pmid = {42707764},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {*Virus Internalization ; Humans ; Animals ; *Membrane Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; Influenza A virus/physiology ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; },
abstract = {Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins (IFITMs) are small interferon-stimulated membrane proteins that can limit viral entry, but their effects depend on the virus, entry route, and experimental context. This Mini Review focuses on IFITM3 at the viral fusion-pore checkpoint, defined here as the transition at which hemifusion either proceeds to fusion-pore opening and viral-content release or stalls before productive entry. Work on influenza virus supports a model in which IFITM3 remodels late-endosomal membranes, prolongs or kinetically stabilizes hemifusion-like intermediates, and raises the activation-energy barrier to fusion-pore formation. Type I interferon signaling, host biological variation, IFITM3 polymorphisms, and post-translational regulation shape IFITM3 abundance and localization, whereas endolysosomal cholesterol homeostasis modifies the membrane environment encountered by incoming virions; whether altered sterol handling also changes IFITM3 turnover remains unresolved. The fusion-pore checkpoint is presented as a working model supported most directly by mechanistic studies of influenza A virus. Coronavirus studies and a Nipah virus entry model illustrate how IFITM phenotypes can shift among restriction, neutrality, and context-dependent support. We therefore interpret IFITM activity as an entry-route-dependent membrane phenotype and outline practical criteria for assigning these outcomes in viral entry studies.},
}

*Virus Internalization
Humans
Animals
*Membrane Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics
Influenza A virus/physiology
Host-Pathogen Interactions

@article {pmid42707957,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, C and Zheng, Y and Jiang, C and Zhang, Y},
title = {Herbal medicines against avian infectious bronchitis virus: shared host-directed and multi-stage antiviral pathways.},
journal = {Frontiers in veterinary science},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1812050},
pmid = {42707957},
issn = {2297-1769},
abstract = {Avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is a highly contagious and genetically diverse coronavirus that continues to pose a major threat to poultry production worldwide. Although vaccination remains the primary control strategy, the frequent emergence of viral variants and incomplete cross-protection among antigenically distinct strains necessitate complementary approaches for effective IBV management. Accumulating evidence suggests that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and herbal-derived compounds may provide protective benefits against IBV infection. Although certain herbal compounds directly target viral particles or life-cycle stages, many protective effects appear to involve host-directed regulatory mechanisms. Recurrent mechanisms include modulation of innate immune responses, particularly type I interferon signaling, together with regulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and stress-adaptive processes such as stress granule formation. In this narrative review, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and major Chinese databases for studies related to IBV, herbal medicines, natural compounds, antiviral activity, and host-directed mechanisms. Direct IBV-specific evidence is available for only a subset of the interventions reviewed; findings from SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, other non-IBV systems, and in silico analyses are treated as indirect and hypothesis-generating, and interventions supported solely by such findings are presented as candidates for IBV-specific validation rather than as established anti-IBV agents. We synthesize in vitro and in vivo evidence to identify recurrent host-response pathways and shared regulatory hubs, and propose a multi-target, multi-stage framework for the adjunctive use of herbal interventions in IBV control.},
}

@article {pmid41047691,
year = {2026},
author = {Agouridis, AP and Makris, A and Ellina, D and Vougiouklakis, G and Alexakis, K and Toulkeridis, G and Ierodiakonou, D and Tsioutis, C and Spernovasilis, N},
title = {Risk of Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases following COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Current rheumatology reviews},
volume = {22},
number = {3},
pages = {1-10},
doi = {10.2174/0115733971382167250921213314},
pmid = {41047691},
issn = {1875-6360},
mesh = {Humans ; *Rheumatic Diseases/epidemiology/immunology ; *Autoimmune Diseases/epidemiology/immunology ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Incidence ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Multiple cases of autoimmune rheumatic diseases following COVID-19 have been reported in the literature. This study aims to systematically determine whether COVID- 19 affects the incidence of autoimmune rheumatic diseases.

METHODS: We searched MEDLINE (PubMed), Global Index Medicus, and Cochrane Library databases up to March 30, 2024, for studies evaluating the incidence of systemic autoimmune diseases following SARS-CoV-2 infection in adult populations.

RESULTS: Eight cohort studies with 5,537,742 COVID-19 and 18,433,129 non-COVID-19 patients were included in our pooled analysis. The risk of developing mixed connective tissue disease and Behçet's disease in COVID-19 patients was increased by 168% (RR: 2.68, 95% CI (1.14 to 6.34), I²=94%) and 101% (RR: 2.01, 95% CI (1.4 to 2.87), I²=6%), respectively, compared to uninfected subjects. A 45% increase in the risk of both rheumatoid arthritis (RR: 1.45, 95% CI (1.02 to 2.06), I²=99%) and psoriasis (RR: 1.45, 95% CI (1.10 to 1.92), I²=98%) after SARS-CoV-2 infection was noted. The risk of dermatopolymyositis was 40% higher (RR: 1.40, 95% CI (1.10 to 1.79), I²=68%) in the COVID-19 group. Non-significant increases in risk were observed in the pooled analysis for ankylosing spondylitis (RR: 1.39, 95% CI (0.94 to 2.05), I²=93%), systemic lupus erythematosus (RR: 1.21, 95% CI (0.70 to 2.07), I²=98%), systemic sclerosis (RR: 1.23, 95% CI (0.73 to 2.04), I²=89%), Sjögren's syndrome (RR: 1.28, 95% CI (0.91 to 1.80), I²=95%), and polymyalgia rheumatica (RR: 1.45, 95% CI (0.94 to 2.25), I²=94%).

DISCUSSION: Since the onset of COVID-19, several cases of new-onset autoimmune rheumatic diseases following SARS-CoV-2 infection have been reported. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the impact of COVID-19 on the risk of developing autoimmune rheumatic diseases. Overall, COVID-19 increases the risk of autoimmune rheumatic diseases, especially during the first year after infection.

CONCLUSION: COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of several autoimmune rheumatic diseases, including mixed connective tissue disease, Behçet's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and dermatopolymyositis. However, our results must be interpreted with caution due to high inter-study heterogeneity.},
}

Humans
*Rheumatic Diseases/epidemiology/immunology
*Autoimmune Diseases/epidemiology/immunology
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Incidence
Risk Factors

@article {pmid42699167,
year = {2026},
author = {Garnier, N and Ossi, J and Marconi, VC and Schinazi, RF and Titanji, BK},
title = {Targeting the JAK/STAT pathway in chronic viral infections: opportunities and challenges for immunomodulation.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1887876},
pmid = {42699167},
issn = {1664-3224},
support = {P30 AI050409/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AG085873/AG/NIA NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH128158/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; R01 MH128872/MH/NIMH NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *STAT Transcription Factors/metabolism/immunology/antagonists & inhibitors ; Signal Transduction/drug effects/immunology ; *Janus Kinases/metabolism/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19/immunology ; *Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/immunology ; Immunomodulation/drug effects ; Animals ; Chronic Disease ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; Host-Directed Therapy ; *Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/immunology ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; Azetidines/therapeutic use ; Purines ; Pyrazoles ; Sulfonamides ; },
abstract = {The discovery of the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway as a key regulator of immune function and inflammation led to the development of JAK inhibitors (JAK-i), several of which are now approved for autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions. Recently, JAK-i have been repurposed for infectious diseases, most notably with baricitinib, a United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved JAK1/2 inhibitor for individuals hospitalized for COVID-19, demonstrating a survival benefit by dampening cytokine-mediated hyperinflammation. This has generated increased interest in leveraging JAK-i for treating people with viral infections associated with chronic immune activation, inflammation or viral persistence. This review summarizes JAK/STAT signaling in viral infections characterized by latency or chronic sequelae. We explore how modulation of this pathway may alter immune responses, impact viral control, and mitigate the consequences of chronic inflammation. We also critically examine the therapeutic potential and limitations of JAK-i in these contexts. Finally, we outline key gaps in the field and propose future directions for research into JAK/STAT targeted immunomodulation in chronic viral infections.},
}

Humans
*STAT Transcription Factors/metabolism/immunology/antagonists & inhibitors
Signal Transduction/drug effects/immunology
*Janus Kinases/metabolism/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19/immunology
*Janus Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/immunology
Immunomodulation/drug effects
Animals
Chronic Disease
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
Host-Directed Therapy
*Coronavirus Infections/drug therapy/immunology
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
Azetidines/therapeutic use
Purines
Pyrazoles
Sulfonamides

@article {pmid42699954,
year = {2026},
author = {Yadav, A and Singh, R and Sinha, P},
title = {Strengthening Tobacco Control during the COVID-19 Pandemic in India: A Secondary Policy Review and Analysis.},
journal = {Indian journal of community medicine : official publication of Indian Association of Preventive & Social Medicine},
volume = {51},
number = {Suppl 4},
pages = {S612-S617},
pmid = {42699954},
issn = {0970-0218},
abstract = {India's response to the COVID-19 crisis involved invoking a combination of emergency and penal laws and regulations to prevent tobacco use, especially in public places to prevent transmission of COVID-19 in the country. This paper presents a review of the laws, policies, and administrative actions undertaken for strengthening and advancing tobacco control during the COVID-19 pandemic in India. All possible pre- and post-independence legislation were used to strengthen, advance, and implement effective tobacco control measures during the COVID-19 pandemic to prevent its transmission. Most restrictions were imposed under the Epidemic Diseases and Disaster Management Acts, in conjunction with laws under the penal code, food safety regulations, and tobacco control statutes. The restrictions were issued in the form of official orders and notifications, primarily aimed at prohibiting the use of tobacco products and spitting in public spaces. Advisories and orders were issued from the national level, the state governments, and district administration in taking these initiatives. Judicial decisions also supported this approach. More than 90% of the reviewed directives specified the type of tobacco products subject to restrictions, 85% cited COVID-19 as the rationale for these measures, and 90% designated enforcement authorities to ensure compliance with the directives. India's longstanding history of tobacco control legislation played a pivotal role in addressing tobacco use as a preventive strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic. The experience of India's pandemic response suggests that a judicious use of existing legislation may offer a pragmatic solution for effectively addressing public health emergencies.},
}

@article {pmid42700361,
year = {2026},
author = {Memariani, M and Memariani, H},
title = {Scorpion Peptides in Antiviral Drug Discovery: An In-depth Review.},
journal = {Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42700361},
issn = {1867-1314},
abstract = {Despite remarkable progress in the fields of vaccinology and antiviral therapy, viral infections persist as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial to identify new and effective antiviral drug candidates. Scorpion venoms are viewed as a rich source of structurally diverse and biologically active peptides, which may present opportunities for diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic applications. This review intends to provide a contemporary and detailed analysis of scorpion-derived peptides, with a particular focus on their structural diversity, cytotoxic effects, antiviral properties, and mechanisms of action. Additionally, this paper highlights several potential fruitful areas for future studies. Current evidence indicates that scorpion-derived peptides are effective against a wide array of medically important viral pathogens such as chikungunya virus, dengue virus, enterovirus 71, hepatitis B virus (HBV), herpes simplex virus 1, human immunodeficiency virus 1, influenza A virus (IAV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2, and Zika virus. Nevertheless, the majority of these findings have been obtained from in vitro studies, whereas evidence from animal models remains limited and clinical evaluation in humans is currently unavailable. Available studies suggest that these peptides may act through diverse mechanisms of action, including direct virucidal activity, inhibition of viral entry, immune system modulation, reduction of virus-induced cytopathic effects, and suppression of viral gene expression. Emerging evidence also demonstrates the efficacy of certain scorpion-derived peptides in animal models of HBV, IAV, and Newcastle disease virus infection. Overall, such peptides appear to inaugurate new avenues for the treatment of viral infections.},
}

@article {pmid42700674,
year = {2026},
author = {Berikopoulou, MM and Giavasoglou, DK and Konstantopoulou, A and Gountas, I and Siahanidou, T and Michos, A},
title = {The epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in hospitalized children in Europe before the widespread implementation of new RSV prophylactic strategies: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of clinical virology : the official publication of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology},
volume = {186},
number = {},
pages = {105996},
doi = {10.1016/j.jcv.2026.105996},
pmid = {42700674},
issn = {1873-5967},
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of pediatric respiratory infections. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to estimate the in-hospital positivity among children in Europe post-COVID-19 and prior to the implementation of the recent RSV prophylactic strategies. A systematic search was conducted across three databases: PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science from 01/01/2021-31/12/2025. Studies enrolling children aged 0-18 years who were hospitalized with respiratory infection and detected positive for RSV were eligible for inclusion. A random-effect model was applied and heterogeneity was assessed using I[2] statistics. Thirty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria, encompasing 66,065 children. The overall pooled RSV in-hospital positivity was 48% (95%CI: 41%-56%). Positivity estimates per year were: 53% (95%CI:49%-56%) for 2021-2022, 49% (95%CI:36%-62%) for 2022-2023, and 62% (95%CI:51%-73%) for 2023-2024 (p = 0.308). RSV positivity in studies with infants (<12-months-old) was 69% vs 30% in studies including older children (0-18 years). Among RSV-positive patients, co-infections were detected in 17%, respiratory support was required in 62% and ICU/NICU admission in 11%. RSV-B predominated over RSV-A during the study period. A substantial burden of RSV-related hospitalizations was detected, especially in infants < 12-months-old; however, the overall pooled positivity estimate should be interpreted with caution. These findings provide an important pre-immunization baseline for evaluating the impact of maternal RSV vaccination and monoclonal antibodies and support the need for continued RSV surveillance across Europe.},
}

@article {pmid42702237,
year = {2026},
author = {Stasi, C and Voller, F},
title = {Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Africa: Current Burden, Clinical Challenges, Gaps and Perspectives Toward Elimination.},
journal = {Clinics and research in hepatology and gastroenterology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {102917},
doi = {10.1016/j.clinre.2026.102917},
pmid = {42702237},
issn = {2210-741X},
abstract = {One of the main objectives of the WHO is the elimination of viral hepatitis by 2030 (with targets of a 90% reduction in new infections and a 65% reduction in mortality). Globally, an estimated 50 million people are infected with HCV. Several reports demonstrate that the COVID-19 pandemic has reduced HCV diagnoses and treatments in most countries, with few countries on track to meet the 2030 HCV elimination targets, underscoring the need to scale up interventions to achieve viral hepatitis elimination. Based on these premises, this review evaluates the burden of HCV infection in Africa, disparities among population groups, and clinical outcomes observed over the past four years, based on a comprehensive search of the Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and African Index Medicus databases from 1 May 2022 to 1 May 2026. Recent studies are concentrated in a limited number of countries, while in many others, they appear to be confined to blood donors and specific clinical populations. The findings of clinical epidemiology studies show that chronic HCV infection continues to be a cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality in Africa, with notable differences across regions. A heavier disease burden appears in high‑risk groups, such as people with HIV infection, people who practice high‑risk sexual behaviours and people who inject drugs. These findings confirm the need to focus on interventions by policymakers and clinicians, including barrier reduction, screening, prevention, and linkage to care for at‑risk populations to reduce HCV transmission and its effects.},
}

@article {pmid42702352,
year = {2026},
author = {Łojko, P and Tomasikiewicz, A},
title = {Red blood cell-directed immune responses in COVID-19: Mechanisms, clinical evidence and implications for transfusion medicine.},
journal = {Transfusion medicine (Oxford, England)},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/tme.70114},
pmid = {42702352},
issn = {1365-3148},
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with a broad spectrum of red blood cell (RBC)-directed immune responses, ranging from isolated direct antiglobulin test (DAT) positivity to autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and transfusion-related diagnostic challenges. This narrative review integrates current evidence on the mechanisms underlying these abnormalities, their clinical manifestations, and their implications for transfusion medicine. Molecular mimicry, bystander B-cell activation, complement dysregulation, oxidative membrane injury, and structural erythrocyte remodeling appear to represent interconnected mechanisms promoting immune recognition and altered function of RBCs. DAT positivity is frequently observed in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, often in the absence of clinically significant hemolysis, emphasizing that a positive DAT should not be considered synonymous with AIHA. Autoantibodies, complement deposition, and occasional alloimmune responses may complicate antibody identification, compatibility testing, and selection of appropriate blood components. Available evidence remains limited by heterogeneous study designs and the predominance of observational studies and case reports. Recognition of RBC-directed immune responses as part of COVID-19-associated immune dysregulation may improve interpretation of immunohematological findings, facilitate appropriate transfusion support, and help distinguish clinically significant immune hemolysis from isolated serological abnormalities.},
}

@article {pmid42703182,
year = {2026},
author = {Mansour, MA and Wahid, M and El Molla, MAS and Helmy, MH and Adel, TM and Mostafa, HN},
title = {Central Nervous System Aspergillosis: Advances in Diagnosis, Therapeutics, and Multidisciplinary Management (2026 Update).},
journal = {Mycoses},
volume = {69},
number = {9},
pages = {e70214},
pmid = {42703182},
issn = {1439-0507},
mesh = {Humans ; *Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics ; *Neuroaspergillosis/diagnosis/drug therapy ; Voriconazole/therapeutic use ; *Central Nervous System Fungal Infections/diagnosis/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Central nervous system (CNS) aspergillosis is a life-threatening infection with mortality rates exceeding 50%, especially in immunocompromised patients. Significant challenges persist due to limited antifungal drug penetration into the CNS, emerging resistance, and diagnostic delays, despite advancements in therapy and diagnostics.

OBJECTIVE: This comprehensive review aims to synthesize pivotal advances in the management of CNS aspergillosis from 2020 to 2026 and to provide a multidisciplinary framework for addressing these ongoing challenges.

METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the latest clinical data, pharmacokinetic studies, and expert recommendations from the specified period. The review critically appraises evidence on pharmacological therapies, diagnostic technologies, and adjunctive treatment strategies.

FINDINGS: Key findings include: Pharmacotherapy: Voriconazole remains the cornerstone of therapy due to its superior CNS penetration (CSF:Plasma ratio ~50%). The roles of alternatives like isavuconazole, salvage combination regimens, and novel agents (e.g., olorofim, fosmanogepix) are evolving.

DIAGNOSTICS: Cutting-edge tools such as AI-assisted imaging, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS), and MR spectroscopy for trehalose detection show significant potential for enabling earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Adjunctive Strategies: Neurosurgical intervention, immunomodulation, and therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) are critical for optimizing outcomes. Emerging strategies like nanoparticle-based drug delivery and host-directed therapies (e.g., PD-1/PD-L1 blockade) offer promising avenues to overcome the blood-brain barrier.

CONCLUSION: This review integrates the latest evidence to provide a timely and actionable resource for clinicians. It bridges gaps in existing guidelines by offering a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the complex management of CNS aspergillosis, with particular relevance for high-risk populations such as COVID-19 and immunocompromised patients.},
}

Humans
*Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacokinetics
*Neuroaspergillosis/diagnosis/drug therapy
Voriconazole/therapeutic use
*Central Nervous System Fungal Infections/diagnosis/drug therapy

@article {pmid38902143,
year = {2026},
author = {Altan, E and Barmak, E and Tatar, EÇ and Saylam, G and Korkmaz, MH},
title = {Which Mask, N95 or Surgical Mask, Causes Hoarseness in Healthcare Workers?.},
journal = {Journal of voice : official journal of the Voice Foundation},
volume = {40},
number = {5},
pages = {1531.e1-1531.e7},
doi = {10.1016/j.jvoice.2024.05.003},
pmid = {38902143},
issn = {1873-4588},
mesh = {Humans ; *Voice Quality ; Adult ; Female ; Male ; *Hoarseness/etiology/diagnosis/physiopathology ; *N95 Respirators/adverse effects ; Time Factors ; Middle Aged ; Laryngoscopy ; Speech Acoustics ; *Laryngeal Masks/adverse effects ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/transmission ; *Health Personnel ; *Occupational Diseases/etiology/diagnosis/physiopathology ; *Masks/adverse effects ; *Occupational Health ; Equipment Design ; Risk Factors ; Phonation ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the impact of different types of masks on the voices of healthcare professionals who had to wear masks for an extended amount of time during the pandemic period and had a healthy voice.

METHODS: Our research included 41 healthcare workers. The participants were separated into two groups: surgical (n = 21) and N95 mask users (n = 20). Healthcare workers evaluated masks before and after wearing them for at least 8 hours throughout the workday. All subjects had a videolaryngoscopic examination; the Voice Handicap Index-10 (VHI-10), GRBAS, acoustic voice analysis (F0, jitter%, shimmer%, noise/harmonic ratio, relative average perturbation [RAP]), aerodynamic measures (maximum phonation time, MPT), and blood oxygen saturation were evaluated.

RESULTS: Although both groups' VHI-10 scores increased after using the mask, this rise was not statistically significant in our research. According to the GRBAS classification, voice quality deterioration was identified in 9.6% (mild-moderate) of the group using surgical masks and 15% (mild) of the group wearing N95. Only the jitter and RAP values of individuals wearing both surgical and N95 masks were determined to be statistically significant. There was no significant change in MPT following mask wear in either group. Both the surgical and N95 mask-using groups showed a substantial drop in blood oxygen saturation before and after mask usage.

CONCLUSION: There was no change in voice quality between healthcare workers wearing surgical and N95 masks. It has been noticed that voice perception and quality are affected by the mask's barrier effect rather than the kind of mask.},
}

Humans
*Voice Quality
Adult
Female
Male
*Hoarseness/etiology/diagnosis/physiopathology
*N95 Respirators/adverse effects
Time Factors
Middle Aged
Laryngoscopy
Speech Acoustics
*Laryngeal Masks/adverse effects
*COVID-19/prevention & control/transmission
*Health Personnel
*Occupational Diseases/etiology/diagnosis/physiopathology
*Masks/adverse effects
*Occupational Health
Equipment Design
Risk Factors
Phonation

@article {pmid41843047,
year = {2026},
author = {Walter, M and Adorjan, K and Bajbouj, M and Deckert, J and Köhler, S and Lieb, K and Priller, J and Schillig, C and Schomburg, AK and Schomerus, G and Schouler-Ocak, M and Meyer-Lindenberg, A},
title = {[The importance of psychiatry in the care and research of Post-COVID].},
journal = {Der Nervenarzt},
volume = {97},
number = {5},
pages = {479-484},
pmid = {41843047},
issn = {1433-0407},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/therapy/complications/diagnosis ; *Mental Disorders/therapy/diagnosis/psychology ; Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome ; *Psychiatry ; *Biomedical Research ; },
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/therapy/complications/diagnosis
*Mental Disorders/therapy/diagnosis/psychology
Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome
*Psychiatry
*Biomedical Research

@article {pmid42202908,
year = {2026},
author = {Lang, A and Grammatikos, A and Ballow, M and Otani, I and Barmettler, S},
title = {Risk Factors for Secondary Immunodeficiency in the Aged.},
journal = {The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {2000-2009},
pmid = {42202908},
issn = {2213-2201},
support = {K23 AI163350/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; Risk Factors ; *Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes/immunology/epidemiology/etiology ; Immunosenescence ; Malnutrition/immunology/epidemiology ; *Aging/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; COVID-19/immunology ; Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {Secondary immune deficiencies, in which the immune system is weakened or compromised by another factor, have become prevalent. Secondary immune deficiencies are particularly pertinent in aged people because numerous etiologies cause immune dysfunction in this population. Immunosenescence is characterized by inflammaging, cellular senescence, thymic involution, reduced naive T- and B-cell output, restricted antigen receptor diversity, and impaired innate immune cell function, leading to increased susceptibility to infection and diminished vaccine responsiveness. Malnutrition is common in aged people and exacerbates immune dysfunction through impaired cell-mediated immunity, micronutrient deficiencies, and weakened mucosal barriers. Immunosuppressive therapies are also frequently used in older adults, such as corticosteroids, cytotoxic agents, purine analogs, and biologics. Other comorbidities such as chronic kidney and liver disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease, and persistent viral infections also contribute to immune dysregulation. Given these cumulative risks, vaccination remains a cornerstone of prevention. Updated immunization strategies targeting COVID-19, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes zoster, and pneumococcal disease are critical to reducing morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable population.},
}

Humans
Risk Factors
*Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes/immunology/epidemiology/etiology
Immunosenescence
Malnutrition/immunology/epidemiology
*Aging/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
COVID-19/immunology
Immunosuppressive Agents/therapeutic use
Vaccination

@article {pmid42418812,
year = {2026},
author = {Tse, WC and Ajluni, T and Chene, C and Leach, D and Leech, M},
title = {Safeguarding medical empathy and cultivating compassion in contemporary medicine.},
journal = {Internal medicine journal},
volume = {56},
number = {9},
pages = {1660-1663},
doi = {10.1111/imj.70484},
pmid = {42418812},
issn = {1445-5994},
mesh = {Humans ; *Empathy ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Burnout, Professional/prevention & control/psychology ; *Students, Medical/psychology ; *Education, Medical ; Physician-Patient Relations ; Compassion Fatigue/prevention & control ; },
abstract = {Empathy and compassion are both fundamental to patient-centred care, enhancing satisfaction, adherence and outcomes while improving clinician well-being. However, certain aspects of medical culture may put these emotional qualities at risk. The preclinical-to-clinical transition exposes students to hierarchical structures, time constraints and performance expectations prioritising technical competence over interpersonal skills. Negative role modelling, rushed consultations and inadequate emotional support normalise emotional detachment. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified burnout and moral injury, while societal desensitisation through social media compounds these effects. Although medical humanities programmes show promise, meaningful change requires addressing both curricula and clinical environments through structured reflection, compassion-focused training and recognising empathy fatigue as an occupational hazard, reaffirming medicine's ethical foundations.},
}

Humans
*Empathy
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Burnout, Professional/prevention & control/psychology
*Students, Medical/psychology
*Education, Medical
Physician-Patient Relations
Compassion Fatigue/prevention & control

@article {pmid42556209,
year = {2026},
author = {Sehouli, J and Bookman, MA and Harter, P and Oza, A and Brand, A and Fidalgo, JA and Sur, DB and Lee, MM and Louwen, F and Zeimet, A and Mukhopadhyay, A and O'Donnell, J and Pothuri, B and , },
title = {Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup code of conduct for diversity in gynecological cancer trials: a clinical guide from the Berlin Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup meeting.},
journal = {International journal of gynecological cancer : official journal of the International Gynecological Cancer Society},
volume = {36},
number = {9},
pages = {104830},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijgc.2026.104830},
pmid = {42556209},
issn = {1525-1438},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; *Genital Neoplasms, Female/therapy/ethnology ; *Clinical Trials as Topic/standards ; Workforce Diversity ; Diversity, Equity, Inclusion ; Gynecology/standards ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Under-representation of key population groups limits the generalizability, applicability, and equity of evidence generated by gynecologic oncology trials. Building on the Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup Barcelona consensus, this initiative aimed to translate the principles of diversity into a structured, practice-oriented Code of Conduct spanning all phases of clinical research.

METHODS: As the third step in an iterative Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup consensus process, a Code of Conduct was developed and formally adopted at the Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup Berlin Meeting. All 33 Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup member groups appointed delegates. Preparatory work included a comprehensive literature review, structured meetings of an interdisciplinary scientific committee, and the NOGGO-GCIG-IDEA survey on equity, diversity, and inclusion. A plenary session included individuals with lived experience, clinicians, and researchers from multiple continents. Statements were drafted in focused working groups and refined to consensus.

RESULTS: The resulting Code of Conduct provides actionable guidance across 12 domains: transparent inclusion criteria; standardized data collection, analysis, and reporting; ethnicity considerations; patient-centered communication and consent; reducing the burden of participation; ethics and scientific integrity; data and biospecimen sharing; governance, accountability, and oversight; global collaboration and capacity building; post-trial responsibilities; authorship, acknowledgment, and dissemination; and implementation and continuous improvement. Harmonized collection of diversity variables is recommended to enable international comparison.

CONCLUSION: Diversity is a prerequisite for scientific validity and clinical relevance rather than an optional consideration. By embedding diversity into every phase of research, the Gynecologic Cancer InterGroup Code of Conduct provides a framework to generate robust, generalizable, and inclusive evidence for the global gynecologic oncology community. The Code is endorsed by the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics and will be reviewed biennially.},
}

Humans
Female
*Genital Neoplasms, Female/therapy/ethnology
*Clinical Trials as Topic/standards
Workforce Diversity
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
Gynecology/standards

@article {pmid42692313,
year = {2026},
author = {Coelho, FDA and Morgan, R and Campos, LC},
title = {Pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs in environmental waters: A systematic review and quantitative analysis of global trends 2004-2021. Part 1.},
journal = {Environmental toxicology and pharmacology},
volume = {127},
number = {},
pages = {105163},
doi = {10.1016/j.etap.2026.105163},
pmid = {42692313},
issn = {1872-7077},
abstract = {Pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs are increasingly recognised as hazardous environmental contaminants, yet global-scale temporal analyses remain limited. This systematic review and quantitative analysis of research published between 2008 and 2021, examines the occurrence of substances across wastewaters and impacted surface waters across six continents and whether temporal patterns coincided with anthropogenic activities and major global events. Significant temporal variations were observed, particularly in Europe and Asia, with notably fluctuations in antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, cardiovascular system medications, cocaine and derivatives, painkillers, and anti-depressants and psychiatric drugs. Higher concentrations of anti-depressants and cardiovascular medications occurred during periods associated with the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, whilst increases in antibiotics and anti-depressants coincided with the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic period. These findings highlight associations between environmental substance occurrence and periods of socioeconomic and public-health disruption and support continuous, geographically inclusive monitoring to improve understanding of long-term temporal patterns.},
}

@article {pmid42693283,
year = {2026},
author = {Kapetanovic, MC},
title = {Vaccination considerations in autoimmune rheumatic diseases.},
journal = {Nature reviews. Rheumatology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42693283},
issn = {1759-4804},
abstract = {Patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) are at increased risk of numerous vaccine-preventable infections owing to a combination of disease-related immune dysregulation, immunosuppressive therapies - including glucocorticoids - and comorbidities. Age-related immunosenescence further increases this susceptibility in older patients. The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic and measles outbreaks have underscored the importance of optimizing vaccination strategies and improving adherence to recommendations. Nevertheless, coverage for routinely recommended vaccines, including influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, remains suboptimal in this population. Vaccine hesitancy is an important barrier driven by concerns regarding safety, tolerability, disease flares and the potential induction of new autoimmune phenomena. Advanced therapies - including B cell-depleting agents, chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy and bispecific T cell engagers - can substantially impair vaccine-induced immune responses, highlighting the importance of optimizing vaccination timing in relation to treatment. Although most studies focus on humoral and cellular immune responses, evidence on the long-term durability of vaccine-induced immunity, the need for booster doses and real-world vaccine effectiveness in patients with ARDs remains limited. Ethical considerations are important. Although vaccination in adults is generally not mandatory, improving vaccine uptake reduces the burden of infections in patients with ARDs, contributes to herd immunity and provides indirect protection for other vulnerable populations.},
}

@article {pmid42696051,
year = {2026},
author = {Kajal, and Pandey, A and Yadav, R and Shukla, R and Mishra, S},
title = {PTBP1 at the host-virus interface: mechanistic roles in viral RNA translation, replication, and immune modulation.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42696051},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {*Polypyrimidine Tract-Binding Protein/metabolism/genetics ; Humans ; *RNA, Viral/genetics/metabolism ; *Virus Replication/genetics ; *Heterogeneous-Nuclear Ribonucleoproteins/metabolism/genetics ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Animals ; Protein Biosynthesis ; Immunity, Innate ; RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism ; Immunomodulation ; RNA Stability ; },
abstract = {Viruses require the involvement of host RNA binding proteins for completion of important steps of their life cycle. Polypyrimidine tract binding protein 1 (PTBP1) is an RNA-binding protein found ubiquitously which performs important regulatory functions like alternative splicing, RNA stability, RNA localization, and translation by virtue of its four RRMs and shuttling between nucleus and cytoplasm. There is increasing evidence showing that many viruses make use of such regulatory roles of PTBP1 to facilitate their gene expression and replication. This review describes the existing mechanistic knowledge about the PTBP1 functions during viral infection, paying attention to the role of PTBP1 in viral RNA translation, viral RNA genome replication, and regulation of host antiviral response. Special attention is paid to the regulation by PTBP1 of IRES-dependent translation of enteroviruses and hepatitis C virus, as well as to the PTBP1 contribution to RNA stabilization, long-distance RNA interactions, and genome cyclization of flaviviruses such as dengue virus and Japanese encephalitis virus. Recent data on the PTBP1 function in coronavirus RNA metabolism are discussed as well. Furthermore, the role of PTBP1 in being both proviral and antiviral is reviewed in terms of innate immunity signalling pathways, stress granule biology, and virus-host interaction. Finally, we will explore the possibility of PTBP1 being used as a host-directed antiviral drug target despite the hurdles in doing so considering its multifunctionality as an essential cellular RNA-binding protein.},
}

*Polypyrimidine Tract-Binding Protein/metabolism/genetics
Humans
*RNA, Viral/genetics/metabolism
*Virus Replication/genetics
*Heterogeneous-Nuclear Ribonucleoproteins/metabolism/genetics
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
Animals
Protein Biosynthesis
Immunity, Innate
RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism
Immunomodulation
RNA Stability

@article {pmid42698821,
year = {2026},
author = {Jia, Y and Chen, Y and Liao, J and Qu, F and Lu, Y and Niu, C and Chen, F},
title = {Immune-endothelial-coagulation crosstalk as a driver of multi-organ dysfunction in severe viral pneumonia.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1878054},
pmid = {42698821},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Multiple Organ Failure/immunology/etiology ; *Blood Coagulation/immunology ; Animals ; *Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/blood ; *Endothelium, Vascular/immunology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Lung/immunology ; },
abstract = {Viral burden or pathogen identity alone cannot adequately explain the progression of severe viral pneumonia from a compartmentalized respiratory infection to acute respiratory distress syndrome, multi-organ failure, and death. Maladaptive immunity, endothelial damage, and coagulation dysregulation are all functionally integrated in a host-driven pathological mechanism that mediates disease escalation. Systemic microvascular damage and pulmonary inflammation are linked by immune-endothelial-coagulation interaction. This review investigates the ways in which immunothrombosis and microcirculatory dysfunction are propagated by defective antiviral immunity, alveolar-capillary barrier failure, damage-associated molecular pattern and neutrophil extracellular trap release, endothelial glycocalyx degradation, complement-platelet interactions, coagulation cascade activation, and impaired fibrinolysis. Lung-derived inflammatory signals cause endothelial activation and procoagulant reprogramming in distal organs following systemic dissemination, resulting in organ-specific phenotypes such as acute kidney injury, secondary myocardial injury, ARDS in the lung, neurovascular unit dysfunction, and barrier-disruption-associated inflammatory amplification along the liver-gut axis. This framework may provide a rationale for exploring stage-adapted and phenotype-guided approaches to severe viral pneumonia, including early antiviral therapy, immunomodulation during disease progression, endothelial-coagulation axis targeting, and host-directed strategies. Further longitudinal cohorts, multi-omics analyses, mechanism-based stratification studies, and mechanism-embedded clinical trials will be needed to determine whether immune-endothelial-coagulation coupling can be translated from a mechanistic model into a clinically actionable framework for precision intervention.},
}

Humans
*Multiple Organ Failure/immunology/etiology
*Blood Coagulation/immunology
Animals
*Pneumonia, Viral/immunology/blood
*Endothelium, Vascular/immunology
SARS-CoV-2
Lung/immunology

@article {pmid42691821,
year = {2026},
author = {Dudley, MZ and Ali, H and Villaescusa, MR and Law, B},
title = {Incidence, risk factors, and association with vaccination of thrombocytopenia and immune thrombocytopenia (ITP): A scoping review.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {92},
number = {},
pages = {129120},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.129120},
pmid = {42691821},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The Brighton Collaboration published its standard harmonized case definition for thrombocytopenia in 2007 to facilitate collection of valid and reproducible vaccine safety evidence and enable valid comparisons across studies. A companion guide to this case definition (including background incidence, risk factors, evidence for or against an association with vaccination, medical codes, data collection forms, and algorithms to support level of diagnostic certainty assessment) was initially published in 2021 and updated in 2025 based on a formal scoping review. This article reports the results of this scoping review, summarizing current evidence regarding the background incidence of and risk factors for thrombocytopenia, including immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and its potential association with vaccination.

METHODS: Two PubMed searches were conducted in July 2024: one for background incidence and non-vaccine risk factors, and one for vaccine associations. Search results were screened and relevant data were extracted and added to the corresponding companion guide tables.

FINDINGS: Twenty-two articles contributed to the updated summary of background incidence, 36 articles contributed to the updated summary of non-vaccine risk factors, and 93 articles contributed to the updated summary of vaccine associations. Estimates of the background incidence of thrombocytopenia range between 1.6 and 92.1 per 100,000 person-years, depending on the study, region, and age range. Non-vaccine risk factors for thrombocytopenia include age, sex, genetics, season, geography, comorbidities, iatrogenesis, infection, medication, and food. While studies have consistently found an increased risk of ITP with measles-containing vaccines, and multiple studies found an increased risk following adenoviral COVID-19 vaccination, studies of other vaccines (including mRNA and inactivated COVID-19 vaccines) have largely found no association.

CONCLUSION: Though rare, thrombocytopenia has many risk factors, including vaccination against measles. This review should be useful to stakeholders attempting to assess the occurrence of thrombocytopenia across a variety of settings, including as an adverse event following immunization.},
}

@article {pmid42692089,
year = {2026},
author = {Cossarizza, A and Poli, G and Clerici, M},
title = {The Silent Infection Load: How Lifelong Asymptomatic Infections May Contribute to Inflammaging as an Evolutionary Trade-off of Longevity.},
journal = {Ageing research reviews},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {103340},
doi = {10.1016/j.arr.2026.103340},
pmid = {42692089},
issn = {1872-9649},
abstract = {Asymptomatic infections are traditionally considered harmless, reflecting effective immune control and the absence of clinical disease. Yet growing evidence shows that these silent encounters with microbes are far from being immunologically neutral. Throughout life, humans are challenged by a remarkably broad spectrum of viruses and bacteria, including latent pathogens that persist, fluctuate, or periodically reactivate without producing significant symptoms. From an evolutionary standpoint, this represents a fundamental trade-off. Long-lived hosts benefit from maintaining diverse commensal, latent, and low-grade persistent microbes that enhance immune readiness, promote cross-protective immunity, and reduce vulnerability to severe infections. However, this adaptive advantage is counterbalanced by the continuous burden of chronic, almost undetectable immune activation and inflammation, and by the energetic cost of sustaining such mechanisms of surveillance. In this regard, retroviral integrations provide a striking illustration of how persistent viral presence has shaped the evolution of complex organisms by introducing new regulatory elements, immune modulators, and developmental programs. These ancient viral imprints demonstrate that clinically-silent host-microbe interactions can exert long-term selective pressures and influence species-specific biological trajectories. At the individual level, repeated asymptomatic infections trigger transient waves of immune activation, endothelial perturbation, mitochondrial stress, and complement engagement. Although each episode is mild and self-limited, their cumulative burden generates micro-damage that accelerates immunosenescence, perturbs metabolic and vascular homeostasis, and contributes to the progressive rise in systemic inflammation characteristic of aging. Notably, in the context of the recent pandemics of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the emergence of Long COVID has highlighted how even clinically mild or initially asymptomatic infections can leave durable immunological, metabolic, and neurological traces, reinforcing the concept that "silent" infections may have lasting consequences.},
}

@article {pmid40188869,
year = {2026},
author = {Berche, P},
title = {Laboratory-associated infections and biosafety.},
journal = {Presse medicale (Paris, France : 1983)},
volume = {55},
number = {3},
pages = {104277},
doi = {10.1016/j.lpm.2025.104277},
pmid = {40188869},
issn = {2213-0276},
mesh = {Humans ; *Laboratory Infection/epidemiology/prevention & control/microbiology/etiology ; Animals ; *Containment of Biohazards ; *Laboratories/standards ; Occupational Exposure/prevention & control ; Virus Diseases ; },
abstract = {The occurrence of laboratory-associated infections, which are caused by the handling of human or animal pathogens, represents a significant threat to the health and safety of laboratory workers and the general population. Such risks are present in clinical diagnostic and research laboratories, including those utilizing biotechnology on pathogenic organisms and industrial laboratories engaged in vaccine production. The investigation of these incidents is based on a retrospective analysis of published reports and voluntary questionnaires. The precise level of risk is challenging to ascertain, given the lack of a mandatory reporting system in the majority of countries. This indicates that many event involving exposure to contamination are not reported. The pathogens encountered in the primary published series include bacteria (e.g., Brucella spp., Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., Neisseria meningitidis, Coxiella burnetii), viruses (e.g., HBV, HCV, HIV, SARS-CoV-1, VEEV), and particularly dangerous viruses (e.g., hantavirus, filovirus, arenavirus), and less frequently fungi, parasites, and prions. Approximately 70% of these incidents are attributable to human errors. The primary modes of contamination are inhalation of aerosols and accidental parenteral injections. Additionally, contamination may occur during the handling of pathogens and the decontamination of waste, as well as during the inactivation processes of mass cultures utilized in vaccine production. It is therefore imperative that any incident or accident linked to contact with pathogens in laboratories be made compulsory to report. This will facilitate the systematic monitoring of these infections and data analysis for educational purposes, thereby enhancing prevention of laboratory accidents and leaks.},
}

Humans
*Laboratory Infection/epidemiology/prevention & control/microbiology/etiology
Animals
*Containment of Biohazards
*Laboratories/standards
Occupational Exposure/prevention & control
Virus Diseases

@article {pmid42687186,
year = {2026},
author = {Kand, U and Kabudula, C and Choudhari, B and Mohanty, TK and Bhujbal, S and Gondhali, A and Bashingwa, JJH and Tippett Barr, BA and Tollman, S and Juvekar, S and Kawade, A and Agarwal, D},
title = {Excess mortality and associated sociodemographic factors during the COVID-19 pandemic in rural Pune Maharashtra, India: a retrospective data analysis from the Vadu health and demographic surveillance system.},
journal = {Population health metrics},
volume = {23},
number = {Suppl 2},
pages = {},
pmid = {42687186},
issn = {1478-7954},
mesh = {Humans ; India/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/mortality/epidemiology ; Female ; *Rural Population/statistics & numerical data ; Male ; Retrospective Studies ; Middle Aged ; Adult ; *Sociodemographic Factors ; Socioeconomic Factors ; Young Adult ; Adolescent ; Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Population Surveillance ; Socioeconomic Disparities in Health ; Pandemics ; Risk Factors ; *Mortality/trends ; Child ; Child, Preschool ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Between January 2020 and August 2023, India documented over 450 million confirmed cases of COVID-19 and nearly 0.5 million COVID-19 deaths. While reported mortality rates in India appeared lower than expected, the actual mortality may be higher due to underreporting and disparities in healthcare access. This study aimed to compare mortality before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify associated socio-demographic factors in rural Pune, Maharashtra, India using longitudinal population-based data from the Vadu Health and Demographic Surveillance System.

METHODS: Individual and mortality data from the Vadu HDSS, India were collected from 2018 to 2021. Descriptive analyses were conducted to examine the variation in mortality by sociodemographic factors during pre-COVID-19 [2018-2019] and COVID-19 [2020-2021] periods. Cox regression with hazard ratios [HR] and 95% confidence intervals [CI] were used to measure the association between socio-demographic factors and mortality.

RESULTS: There were 2039 deaths that occurred between 2018 and 2021, of which 40.6% [828/2039] were female. The overall risk of mortality increased during COVID-19 [HR1.2,95%CI:1.1-1.3], but this varied by sociodemographic characteristics. The risk of death was greater [HR1.8,95%CI:1.5-2.2] among individuals living in single-person households compared to those living in 2-5 member households, and there was a strong trend of increased mortality risk with older age. Widowed individuals had a greater risk of mortality than those who were married [HR2.1,95%CI:1.9-2.4]. Education was strongly protective against mortality; those who had any level of education had a lower risk of dying than those with no education [HR0.4,95%CI:0.3-0.5].

CONCLUSION: Increased COVID-19 mortality in India was associated with older age, widowhood, and living alone. These findings highlight the need for targeted vaccination, early clinical care, and community outreach for vulnerable populations during future pandemics.},
}

Humans
India/epidemiology
*COVID-19/mortality/epidemiology
Female
*Rural Population/statistics & numerical data
Male
Retrospective Studies
Middle Aged
Adult
*Sociodemographic Factors
Socioeconomic Factors
Young Adult
Adolescent
Aged
SARS-CoV-2
Population Surveillance
Socioeconomic Disparities in Health
Pandemics
Risk Factors
*Mortality/trends
Child
Child, Preschool

@article {pmid42688262,
year = {2026},
author = {Ohno, T},
title = {Time in tight range (TITR): emerging evidence and clinical perspectives.},
journal = {Diabetology international},
volume = {17},
number = {4},
pages = {72},
pmid = {42688262},
issn = {2190-1678},
abstract = {Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has enabled increasingly stringent assessment of glycemic control beyond conventional time in range (TIR; 70-180 mg/dL). Time in tight range (TITR), defined as the percentage of time with glucose levels between 70 and 140 mg/dL, was proposed in 2023 as a more stringent CGM-derived metric. This review summarizes current evidence regarding the clinical significance and limitations of TITR. TITR correlates strongly with HbA1c and TIR, and may be more sensitive than TIR to changes in mean glucose when glycemia approaches the normal range. Recent cohort studies suggest that lower TITR is linearly associated with higher risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, while higher TITR is associated with lower incidence of diabetic retinopathy. TITR has also shown associations with favorable outcomes in COVID-19 pneumonia. However, its interpretation requires caution because glycemic variability can influence TITR differently according to mean glucose levels. In individuals with type 1 diabetes treated with multiple daily injections, higher TITR may be accompanied by increased time below range, suggesting that indiscriminate pursuit of higher TITR could increase hypoglycemia risk. Further prospective studies are needed to establish optimal TITR targets and determine whether TITR provides prognostic value beyond established CGM metrics across diverse populations.},
}

@article {pmid42688493,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, ZY and Wu, W and Luo, G and Huang, H and Liu, XL},
title = {Infection risk associated with talquetamab in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: a systematic review with meta-analysis of talquetamab monotherapy and descriptive analysis of combination therapy.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1848518},
pmid = {42688493},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Multiple Myeloma/drug therapy/immunology ; *Antibodies, Bispecific/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; *Infections/etiology/epidemiology ; *Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Talquetamab, a first-in-class G protein-coupled receptor family C group 5 member D (GPRC5D) × CD3 bispecific antibody, demonstrates substantial clinical activity in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). However, immune dysfunction associated with advanced disease, extensive prior therapies, and bispecific antibody-mediated immune modulation may increase susceptibility to infections. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to characterize infection risk associated with talquetamab, with separate evaluation of monotherapy and combination therapy settings.

METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from inception to July 1, 2026. Studies reporting infection outcomes among RRMM patients treated with talquetamab-containing regimens were eligible. Outcomes included any-grade infections, grade ≥3 infections, infection-related mortality, reported pathogens, and preventive strategies when available. Because talquetamab monotherapy and combination regimens represent clinically distinct treatment strategies, quantitative analyses were restricted to monotherapy cohorts, whereas combination therapy studies were summarized descriptively. A random-effects model was used to estimate pooled infection incidence. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist for Case Series.

RESULTS: Six studies were included in the qualitative synthesis, including four talquetamab monotherapy cohorts and two talquetamab-based combination therapy cohorts. Quantitative meta-analysis included four monotherapy cohorts comprising 735 patients for any-grade infections and three cohorts comprising 584 patients for grade ≥3 infections. The pooled incidence of any-grade infections was 51% (95% CI, 34%-67%; I² = 94.2%), while the pooled incidence of grade ≥3 infections was 22% (95% CI, 17%-28%; I² = 59.6%). Given the limited number of available studies and substantial heterogeneity, these pooled estimates should be interpreted as exploratory and hypothesis-generating. Combination therapy cohorts, including talquetamab plus teclistamab and talquetamab-based regimens from MonumenTAL-3, demonstrated substantial infection burdens and were characterized descriptively rather than quantitatively. Infection-related mortality ranged from 0% to 3.2%. Frequently reported infections included viral infections (particularly SARS-CoV-2 and cytomegalovirus), bacterial pneumonia, and opportunistic infections such as Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia.

CONCLUSIONS: Talquetamab monotherapy in heavily pretreated RRMM patients is associated with a clinically meaningful risk of infections, including severe infections. The substantial heterogeneity observed across studies likely reflects differences in patient characteristics, prior therapies, treatment settings, infection definitions, and supportive care strategies. Combination bispecific antibody regimens may represent a potentially higher infection burden requiring enhanced infection surveillance and preventive approaches. Further prospective studies are warranted to better define infection risk factors and optimal prevention and management strategies during talquetamab therapy.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD420261357352, identifier CRD420261357352.},
}

Humans
*Multiple Myeloma/drug therapy/immunology
*Antibodies, Bispecific/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols/therapeutic use/adverse effects
*Infections/etiology/epidemiology
*Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/adverse effects/therapeutic use
Risk Factors

@article {pmid42688769,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, Y and Zhuo, H and Wang, L},
title = {Advances in the clinical application of stellate ganglion block for non-pain indications.},
journal = {Frontiers in medicine},
volume = {13},
number = {},
pages = {1840174},
pmid = {42688769},
issn = {2296-858X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is a peripheral nerve block technique involving injection of local anesthetics and/or steroids near the stellate ganglion. Traditionally used for pain-related syndromes, SGB has recently expanded into non-pain fields with the advancement of ultrasound guidance, showing therapeutic potential in arrhythmias, menopausal hot flashes, psychiatric disorders, cerebrovascular diseases, insomnia, and COVID-19 sequelae.

OBJECTIVE: To review the current evidence on SGB applications in non-pain conditions, evaluate its therapeutic efficacy and safety across different diseases, elucidate underlying mechanisms, and identify research gaps and future directions.

METHODS: This narrative review synthesized data from published literature including case reports, cohort studies, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on SGB in non-pain conditions. Studies were analyzed based on disease categories, with focus on mechanism of action, clinical outcomes, and safety profiles.

RESULTS: Stellate ganglion block demonstrates therapeutic effects across six domains: (1) Ventricular arrhythmias: In a multicenter observational study of 131 patients (the STAR study), 92% (106/115) of patients with treatable arrhythmic episodes achieved a ≥50% reduction in arrhythmia burden within 12 h via sympathetic blockade and QT dispersion reduction; (2) Menopausal hot flashes: Significant reduction in frequency through modulation of thermoregulatory pathways; (3) Insomnia: Improved sleep quality via autonomic balance restoration; (4) Cerebrovascular diseases: Enhanced cerebral perfusion and cognitive function; (5) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Case series have reported response rates of 70%-75% via inhibition of locus coeruleus-norepinephrine circuits; randomized evidence is mixed-a small early trial found no benefit over sham, whereas the subsequent multicenter randomized controlled trial (n = 113) demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in PTSD symptom severity (P = 0.01)-and adequately powered confirmatory trials are still needed; (6) COVID-19: Retrospective cohort studies suggest symptom relief in the majority of patients through autonomic reset.

CONCLUSION: Stellate ganglion block has become an important intervention for autonomic dysfunction in non-pain conditions through sympathetic blockade, neuroendocrine modulation, and anti-inflammatory effects. Although ultrasound guidance has improved safety, evidence remains limited by small RCTs, heterogeneous protocols, and observational designs. Rigorous multicenter RCTs are needed to confirm efficacy, define patient selection, and standardize protocols. Further research should investigate central regulatory mechanisms and long-term neuroplasticity to advance SGB from empirical therapy to precision intervention.},
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