@article {pmid41563155,
year = {2026},
author = {Schor, S and Baez, J and Hill, J},
title = {Boarding and Crowding Are Facts of Life. It's Time We Adapt Resident Education to Them.},
journal = {Annals of emergency medicine},
volume = {87},
number = {6},
pages = {757-762},
doi = {10.1016/j.annemergmed.2025.12.011},
pmid = {41563155},
issn = {1097-6760},
mesh = {Humans ; *Internship and Residency/organization & administration ; *Crowding ; *Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration ; *Emergency Medicine/education ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Triage ; Education, Medical, Graduate ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Although the COVID pandemic and its aftermath may have shone a light on the issues of emergency department (ED) crowding and boarding, these are not new problems. Much has been written on ED crowding for the past 35 years, analyzing its causes and effects on both patient care and resident education. However, relatively little has been done to explore how to adapt resident education models or leverage physician-in-triage models and other by-products of overfilled waiting rooms to prepare residents for the inevitability of boarding in their future careers. In this article, we examine how the understanding of ED boarding has evolved over time with particular reference to resident education. We then review strategies that have been proposed to improve resident education in times of ED crowding. Ultimately, we propose shifting the paradigm to one in which ED boarding is accepted as an inevitability such that residency training programs can focus on ways to prepare future emergency medicine attendings for this reality.},
}

Humans
*Internship and Residency/organization & administration
*Crowding
*Emergency Service, Hospital/organization & administration
*Emergency Medicine/education
COVID-19/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
Triage
Education, Medical, Graduate
Pandemics

@article {pmid41862360,
year = {2026},
author = {Sinha, D and Coquant, G and Yuan, X and Paul, S and Longet, S},
title = {Postpandemic adjuvants to tailor vaccine-induced immunity.},
journal = {Trends in immunology},
volume = {47},
number = {5},
pages = {423-435},
doi = {10.1016/j.it.2026.01.001},
pmid = {41862360},
issn = {1471-4981},
mesh = {Humans ; *Adjuvants, Immunologic ; Animals ; *Adjuvants, Vaccine ; Immunity, Mucosal ; Immunogenicity, Vaccine ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Vaccines/immunology ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; Immunity, Humoral ; Immunity, Cellular ; },
abstract = {Adjuvants are critical to improving the magnitude, breadth, functionality, and durability of vaccine immunogenicity. Despite advances in vaccinology, long-term immunity, variant cross-protection, and robust mucosal responses remain unmet goals. These challenges underscore the need for novel, safe, and effective adjuvants. This review explores emerging adjuvants targeting specific immune pathways. We highlight clinical and preclinical studies focusing on adjuvants that enhance durable and persistent humoral, cellular, and mucosal immunity. Current trends are discussed alongside tailored approaches for children and the elderly. Finally, the aim of this review is to highlight novel vaccine adjuvants currently in preclinical and clinical development, with the potential to generate a vaccine platform fit for the necessary yet unmet needs of public health in a postpandemic era.},
}

Humans
*Adjuvants, Immunologic
Animals
*Adjuvants, Vaccine
Immunity, Mucosal
Immunogenicity, Vaccine
*COVID-19 Vaccines/immunology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Vaccines/immunology
Pandemics/prevention & control
Immunity, Humoral
Immunity, Cellular

@article {pmid41905519,
year = {2026},
author = {Oudhini, A and Elghali, M and Zanina, Y and Changuel, M and Sakly, N},
title = {Autoimmunity following SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination: Systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Clinical immunology (Orlando, Fla.)},
volume = {285},
number = {},
pages = {110702},
doi = {10.1016/j.clim.2026.110702},
pmid = {41905519},
issn = {1521-7035},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology ; *Autoimmunity/immunology ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/etiology/epidemiology ; *Vaccination/adverse effects ; },
abstract = {AIM: To systematically review and meta-analyze the available evidence on the association between SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19 vaccination, and the development of new autoimmune conditions (AIC).

METHODS: This study followed the PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched until December 31, 2024, for studies reporting new-onset autoimmunity after SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination. Meta-analyses using random-effects models calculated pooled odds ratios using RStudio 4.3.

RESULTS: Of the 2544 records identified, 39 studies were included in the systematic review, and 17 studies were included in the meta-analysis. A significant association was found between SARS-CoV-2 infection and new AIC (p = 0.0054) and particularly type 1 diabetes (p = 0.0229), blistering diseases (p = 0.0452), systemic sclerosis (p = 0.0153), and vitiligo (p = 0.0122). Regarding SARS-CoV-2 vaccine-induced autoimmunity, no association between COVID-19 vaccines and new AIC was observed.

CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence that SARS-CoV-2 infection may strongly induce autoimmunity.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/immunology/prevention & control
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/immunology
*Autoimmunity/immunology
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Autoimmune Diseases/immunology/etiology/epidemiology
*Vaccination/adverse effects

@article {pmid41912702,
year = {2026},
author = {Candel-Pau, J and Maya-Enero, S and García-García, J and Valle-Del Barrio, B and Muñoz-Molinero, J and López-Vílchez, MÁ},
title = {Factors influencing SARS-CoV-2 placental antibody transfer and neonatal transmission. A prospective, cohort study and review of available literature.},
journal = {Journal of perinatology : official journal of the California Perinatal Association},
volume = {46},
number = {5},
pages = {717-725},
pmid = {41912702},
issn = {1476-5543},
mesh = {Humans ; Female ; Pregnancy ; Infant, Newborn ; *COVID-19/transmission/immunology ; *Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/statistics & numerical data ; Prospective Studies ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/immunology/virology ; *Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology ; *Placenta/immunology ; Adult ; *Immunity, Maternally-Acquired ; Male ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: To describe SARS-CoV-2 serologic status, associated factors, and neonatal transmission following gestational COVID-19.

STUDY DESIGN: Prospective cohort study including neonates born to mothers with gestational COVID-19 at Hospital del Mar (Barcelona) between March 2020 and May 2022.

RESULTS: A total of 263 infants and 261 mothers were included. High seropositivity was observed in infected mothers (88.9%) and their newborns (82.8%), particularly following early gestational and mild-to-moderate infections and among vaccinated mothers. Higher placental antibody transfer ratios were observed in earlier maternal infections. However, a longer infection-to-delivery interval increased transfer ratios only for anti-nucleocapsid antibodies. Neonatal antibodies persisted for at least six months. Only 6.1% of neonates born to mothers with active infection tested positive, with no evidence of congenital transmission.

CONCLUSIONS: SARS-CoV-2 antibody placental transfer is frequent and efficient, conferring passive immunity during the first six months of life. Neonatal infection rate was low and attributable to horizontal transmission.},
}

Humans
Female
Pregnancy
Infant, Newborn
*COVID-19/transmission/immunology
*Infectious Disease Transmission, Vertical/statistics & numerical data
Prospective Studies
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Pregnancy Complications, Infectious/immunology/virology
*Antibodies, Viral/blood/immunology
*Placenta/immunology
Adult
*Immunity, Maternally-Acquired
Male

@article {pmid41973776,
year = {2026},
author = {Fam, JY and Männikkö, N},
title = {Can the Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale be adapted across contexts? Evidence from a COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments systematic review.},
journal = {Psychology of addictive behaviors : journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors},
volume = {40},
number = {4},
pages = {484-497},
doi = {10.1037/adb0001149},
pmid = {41973776},
issn = {1939-1501},
mesh = {Humans ; *Psychometrics/standards/instrumentation ; *Social Media ; COVID-19 ; *Internet Addiction Disorder/diagnosis ; Reproducibility of Results ; Consensus ; *Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/standards ; *Behavior, Addictive/diagnosis ; },
abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Bergen Facebook Addiction Scale (BFAS) has served as a foundation for a series of adapted measures designed to assess social media-related behavioral addictions. Despite widespread application of these instruments, a systematic evaluation of their psychometric properties is lacking. This review aimed to evaluate the measurement properties of the BFAS and its adaptations using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology.

METHOD: A systematic search was conducted to identify psychometric studies of the BFAS and its adapted versions, including the BFAS-18, Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS), Bergen Mukbang Addiction Scale, Social Media Addiction during COVID-19 Pandemic scale, and Social Networks Addiction Scale-6 Symptoms. Eligible studies were assessed using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist, and the quality of evidence was graded according to the COSMIN-Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

RESULTS: A total of 55 studies were included. The BFAS and BSMAS demonstrated strong evidence for structural validity, internal consistency, measurement invariance, and hypothesis testing, with high-quality evidence across multiple domains. The BFAS-18 and Bergen Mukbang Addiction Scale received more limited and inconsistent support, while the Social Media Addiction during COVID-19 Pandemic scale and Social Networks Addiction Scale-6 Symptoms remain underexplored with very low-quality evidence. Across all scales, evidence for content validity, reliability, measurement error, and responsiveness was sparse, highlighting important gaps.

CONCLUSIONS: The BFAS and BSMAS currently represent the most robust instruments for assessing Facebook and social media addiction, respectively. However, additional research is required to strengthen evidence for other adaptations, particularly in relation to content validity, measurement error, and responsiveness, as well as to evaluate linguistic and cultural invariance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).},
}

Humans
*Psychometrics/standards/instrumentation
*Social Media
COVID-19
*Internet Addiction Disorder/diagnosis
Reproducibility of Results
Consensus
*Psychiatric Status Rating Scales/standards
*Behavior, Addictive/diagnosis

@article {pmid42159817,
year = {2026},
author = {Ali, S and Shafiq, M and Aziz, A and Rahman, NU and Bakky, MAH},
title = {The Prevalence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Clinical Settings of Pakistan: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {Journal of epidemiology and global health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s44197-026-00587-y},
pmid = {42159817},
issn = {2210-6014},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) represents a significant and growing public health challenge in Pakistan, due to antibiotic misuse, weak infection control measures and rapid bacterial evolution. Determining the overall prevalence of MRSA in the country is crucial for informing targeted treatment protocols and effective management strategies. This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to establish the pooled prevalence of MRSA in Pakistan.

METHODS: We searched electronic databases (Google Scholar, PubMed, Embase) for studies published between 2015 and 2025. The PRISMA guidelines were followed to conduct this systematic review. Meta-analyses were performed using R Studio software, applying both fixed- and random-effects models to calculate pooled prevalence. The heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistics. Publication bias was assessed using Begg's and Egger's tests. Most studies used cefoxitin disk diffusion to characterize MRSA, while some studies used PCR to detect the mecA gene.

RESULTS: Sixty-eight studies meeting the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The overall pooled MRSA prevalence was estimated at 50% (95% CI: 45-54%), with I² = 98.9). Year-wise subgroup analysis revealed significant variation from 2015 to 2025, with estimates ranging from 64% (95% CI: 26-90%), with I² = 96.68 in 2022 to a low of 34% (95% CI: 17-56%), with I² = 99.16 in 2020, which may be due to reduced healthcare access and infection control measures implemented during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The pooled estimate among general patients and healthcare personnel was 50% (95% CI: 44-57%), with I² = 98.5 and 44% (95% CI: 30-60%), with I² = 95.4, respectively. The subgroup differences test (p = 0.54) for population type revealed no statistically significant difference. The Begg's test (p = 0.2378) and Egger's test (p = 0.8893) showed no significant evidence of bias. The significant variation between the two diagnostic methods (p = 0.03) showed that the observed heterogeneity may be due to diagnostic methods used across the studies.

CONCLUSION: The high pooled prevalence of MRSA in Pakistan highlights an urgent need for strengthened antimicrobial stewardship, standardized surveillance systems, and integrated infection prevention strategies.},
}

@article {pmid42160264,
year = {2026},
author = {Romoff, M and Chandekar, A and Beyer, R and Kim, MS and Baz, S and Mills, ES and Park, DY and Lee, YP and Bhatia, N and Hashmi, S and Wu, HH},
title = {Evaluating Virtual and Hybrid Mentorship in Orthopaedic Surgery: Perceived Benefits, Challenges, and Impacts in the Post-COVID Era.},
journal = {JBJS reviews},
volume = {14},
number = {5},
pages = {},
pmid = {42160264},
issn = {2329-9185},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Mentors ; *Orthopedics/education ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Pandemics ; *Mentoring/methods ; *Orthopedic Procedures/education ; },
abstract = {» Virtual and hybrid mentorship models have transitioned from temporary coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic responses to durable, scalable components of the orthopaedic training curriculum. » Despite high trainee satisfaction, most orthopaedic virtual mentorship programs rely on short-term, self-reported metrics and lack the objective, longitudinal tracking of research productivity or career advancement seen in other specialties. » While virtual pipelines demonstrate the potential to broaden access for underrepresented groups, inconsistent collection of detailed demographic and socioeconomic data limits the assessment of their true impact on diversity. » Neurosurgery and plastic surgery provide instructive models for virtual collaboratives that successfully use standardized expectations and longitudinal outcome tracking to measure success. » To ensure these programs drive equitable change rather than just broader participation, future orthopaedic virtual mentorship programs should incorporate standardized outcome frameworks, mentor perspectives, and longitudinal, multi-institutional follow-up.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Mentors
*Orthopedics/education
SARS-CoV-2
Pandemics
*Mentoring/methods
*Orthopedic Procedures/education

@article {pmid42161577,
year = {2026},
author = {O'Donovan, CJ and Ramanan, AV},
title = {Infection, inflammation and immune dysregulation: evolving perspectives on the host response.},
journal = {Archives of disease in childhood},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/archdischild-2025-330158},
pmid = {42161577},
issn = {1468-2044},
abstract = {Host inflammatory responses contribute substantially to infection-related morbidity, and in severe cases such as sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, immune-mediated tissue injury may exceed the direct effects of pathogens themselves. Although traditional wisdom has considered immunosuppression risky when antimicrobial therapy is required, modern insights into immune biology reveal a more nuanced landscape in which targeted immunomodulators can attenuate harmful inflammation without broadly compromising host defence. This evolution is particularly relevant in paediatrics, influenced by developmental stage, distinct exposure history and patterns of host response. The COVID-19 pandemic catalysed wider acceptance of immunomodulation in infection management, including corticosteroids in children and highlighted safe use of agents such as baricitinib. Platform trials of the hyperinflammatory syndrome (paediatric inflammatory multisystem syndrome temporally associated with SARS-CoV-2) also identified benefits of methylprednisolone and tocilizumab in select groups. For other paediatric infections, including dengue, influenza and Epstein-Barr virus, the evidence remains sparse, with emerging mechanistic and early-phase clinical studies exploring interleukin (IL)-1 blockade, corticosteroids, immunoglobulin and anticytokine biologics. In paediatric sepsis, immunophenotype-guided trials represent a major conceptual advance. Adaptive studies, such as TRIPS and GRACE-2, aim to tailor immunomodulation to hyperinflammation or immunoparalysis, though definitive efficacy data are awaited. Parallel efforts in ARDS explore statins, IL-6 blockade and cell-based therapies, but robust paediatric evidence is still lacking. Collectively, evolving insights and trial designs offer renewed opportunities to use targeted immunomodulation in the management of paediatric infection. Large-scale, collaborative paediatric research networks will be essential to translate these advances and better integrate infection research into everyday paediatric practice.},
}

@article {pmid42162612,
year = {2026},
author = {Stiefel, P and Muñoz-García, J and Pino-Mejías, R},
title = {Blood pressure variability: a growing but still overlooked topic.},
journal = {Revista clinica espanola},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {502580},
doi = {10.1016/j.rceng.2026.502580},
pmid = {42162612},
issn = {2254-8874},
abstract = {The importance of blood pressure variability has grown exponentially over the past two to three years. In this review, we aim to discuss the reasons underlying this increasing interest. First, we describe the different methods used to assess blood pressure variability, including very short-term (beat-to-beat), short-term (24 -h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring), mid-term (home self-measurements), and long-term (visit-to-visit measurements), as well as the mathematical indices used to quantify it. We then address the clinical relevance of blood pressure variability. First, increased variability is more prevalent in several health conditions not necessarily related to vascular disease, such as mental illness, severity of COVID-19 infection, bone fractures, and various forms of cognitive impairment. Second, blood pressure variability appears to be involved in the progression from prehypertensive states to established hypertension and, once hypertension is present, in the development of target organ damage. It has also been associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and adverse neonatal outcomes. Furthermore, blood pressure variability, even independently of mean arterial blood pressure, influences the development, prognosis, and complications of coronary and cerebrovascular disease. Finally, we discuss evidence suggesting that blood pressure variability is associated with both vascular and all-cause mortality.},
}

@article {pmid42163819,
year = {2026},
author = {McDonnell, R and Chauhan, A and Adams, C and Cardenas, A and Moscova, M and Walsan, R and Sina, M and Munro, A and Manias, E and Mitchell, R and Gust, A and Sabesan, S and Harrison, R},
title = {Applying Change Models and Methods During a Period of Vast Digital Transformation: A Systematic Review of Practice in Healthcare.},
journal = {The International journal of health planning and management},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1002/hpm.70092},
pmid = {42163819},
issn = {1099-1751},
support = {//National Health and Medical Research Council/ ; //Western Sydney Local Health District/ ; //University of New South Wales/ ; //Western Health Foundation/ ; //Townsville Hospital and Health Service/ ; //Monash University/ ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Reflection and learning about the use of virtual care in healthcare delivery has become a central goal for health systems internationally. Insights drawn in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to vast changes to embed virtual care in health care delivery. This study explored the methodologies used to manage change that encompasses virtual care and factors contributing to success.

METHODS: A systematic review and narrative synthesis was undertaken. Eligible articles were those reporting structured change management processes in the context of virtual care published between 1st January 2019-31st December 2023, identified by searching four electronic databases (Scopus, MedLine, PsycInfo and Business Source Premier). Data were extracted and synthesised from the eligible studies.

RESULTS: Seventeen studies met inclusion criteria describing changes occurring within hospital settings or in community health centres. Kotter's 8-Step Model was the most frequently applied change framework, often combined with other approaches. Commonly enablers included high quality communication among all parties involved and strong leadership. Common barriers included overemphasis on technology at the expense of people and processes, linear application of models, and lack of mechanisms to monitor change progress.

DISCUSSION: Structured change methodologies were often integrated in a strategic change framework with process improvement methods utilised to support the change process. Managing change relating to the technology with attention to the clinical and people aspects of change was considered a key gap and challenge in the context of virtual care change. Change leadership and the integration of technical and clinical teams were identified as key enablers.},
}

@article {pmid42163826,
year = {2026},
author = {Guan, Z and Li, X and Zhu, X},
title = {Emerging Insights of Management of Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Cancer.},
journal = {Clinical and applied thrombosis/hemostasis : official journal of the International Academy of Clinical and Applied Thrombosis/Hemostasis},
volume = {32},
number = {},
pages = {10760296261454788},
doi = {10.1177/10760296261454788},
pmid = {42163826},
issn = {1938-2723},
mesh = {Humans ; *Venous Thromboembolism/etiology/drug therapy/prevention & control ; *Neoplasms/complications/blood ; *Anticoagulants/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight/therapeutic use/adverse effects ; Hemorrhage/chemically induced ; Risk Factors ; },
abstract = {Cancer -associated thrombosis (CAT), particularly venous thromboembolism (VTE), is a major contributor to mortality in cancer patients and is widely recognized as a leading cause of death after the direct effects of cancer progression. Cancer patients have significantly higher VTE risk than the general population, due to hypercoagulable states and anticancer therapies, with those with advanced malignancies carrying the highest risk. Primary thromboprophylaxis and anticoagulation are pivotal for CAT management. Despite advances, key challenges include different thrombotic and bleeding risks across cancers and how recurrent VTE affects anticoagulation duration. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) has largely replaced warfarin, and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are challenging LMWH's first-line role with proven efficacy. However, the key dilemma is balancing thromboprophylaxis and treatment against anticoagulant-induced bleeding, particularly in the context of recurrent VTE. Current CAT guidelines show discrepancies and gaps in clinical coverage; some conclusions derived from meta-analyses need validation via more randomized controlled trials. This review synthesizes recent CAT research (focused on VTE) across epidemiology, pathophysiology, laboratory assessments, and management. It analyzes how cancer type, patient conditions, and drug-drug interactions influence anticoagulant selection, supported by a review of the corresponding experimental evidence. Additionally, the article addresses key clinical scenarios (e.g., intracerebral hemorrhage, pregnancy, pediatric and adolescent patients, and COVID-19) to aid clinical decision-making, delineates unresolved clinical controversies, and integrates high-quality cohort/subgroup data to guide meta-analysis validation. By summarizing risk-benefit consideration, this article provides a framework for complex cases and informs future RCT design.},
}

Humans
*Venous Thromboembolism/etiology/drug therapy/prevention & control
*Neoplasms/complications/blood
*Anticoagulants/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight/therapeutic use/adverse effects
Hemorrhage/chemically induced
Risk Factors

@article {pmid42163969,
year = {2026},
author = {Hendriks, S and Grady, C and Fitzgerald, ML and Gross, RS and Maughan, C and Peluso, MJ and Varma, S and Nath, A and Rid, A},
title = {The next phase in Long COVID research: addressing the ethical challenges in trials of disease-modifying treatments.},
journal = {EClinicalMedicine},
volume = {95},
number = {},
pages = {103918},
pmid = {42163969},
issn = {2589-5370},
abstract = {Almost five years after COVID-19 emerged, multiple scientific uncertainties remain about why some people experience ongoing symptoms long after being infected with SARS-CoV-2 (Long COVID). The pathophysiology underlying Long COVID and its potential to represent several endotypes are still under investigation. These scientific uncertainties around Long COVID have been cited as a reason to delay treatment trials until the disease is better understood. In this paper, a group of bioethicists, clinician-scientists and people with lived experience with Long COVID argue that it is ethically imperative to conduct trials of disease-modifying treatments for Long COVID now. Furthermore, we argue that although conducting such trials can pose ethical challenges, these challenges can be overcome through careful research priority-setting, rigorous trial design, fair participant selection, and ensuring that the risk-benefit profile is favorable.},
}

@article {pmid42164546,
year = {2026},
author = {Petrovan, A and Puiu, L and Pop, CM},
title = {COVID-19, the disease that changed the world.},
journal = {Medicine and pharmacy reports},
volume = {99},
number = {2},
pages = {91-105},
pmid = {42164546},
issn = {2668-0572},
abstract = {Five years ago, the COVID-19 coronavirus emerged as an invisible threat that profoundly disrupted the world, becoming a public health challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us how important it is to have health systems that can quickly find and track new viruses as they spread and has ushered in a new era of genomic surveillance, allowing scientists to track the evolution of the coronavirus, providing public health strategies. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has been associated with very important global morbidity and mortality. The discovery of SARS-CoV-2 in bats and pangolins in South Asian countries indicates that SARS-CoV-2 likely originated from wildlife being the third highly pathogenic human coronavirus. The increased contagiousness of SARS-CoV-2 virus was due to the spike glycoprotein (S) that favors the attachment of the virus to the cell surface. SARS-CoV-2 infection triggers a damaging triad of oxidative stress, intense inflammation with cytokine storm, and endothelial dysfunction, leading to widespread cellular damage, blood clotting with thrombosis, and organ failure by overwhelming the body's antioxidant defenses, damaging blood vessel linings, and promoting hyperinflammation, all crucial factors in severe COVID disease. The purpose of the review is to make a synthesis of the data known so far about SARS-CoV-2 virus etiology, the complex interactions between the virus and the host, imbalanced immune response and cytokine storm, molecular mechanisms by which the spike protein drives endothelial dysfunction and, multisystemic pulmonary, cardiovascular, neurological, renal involvement.},
}

@article {pmid42164657,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, K and Cao, R and Li, M and Tian, Z and Fan, H and Hong, B and Liu, X},
title = {Organoids: From Bench to Bedside Applications.},
journal = {MedComm},
volume = {7},
number = {},
pages = {e70768},
pmid = {42164657},
issn = {2688-2663},
abstract = {Organoids are three-dimensiona(3D) models derived from stem cells that closely replicate the structure and cellular complexity of human tissues, providing physiologically relevant platforms for biomedical research. This technology addresses the limitations of two-dimensional (2D) cultures, reduces species-specific discrepancies, and is particularly valuable for investigating virus-host interactions and pathogenic mechanisms under near-physiological conditions. This review systematically outlines key advancements in organoid-based virology, including the propagation of hard-to-culture pathogens such as human rhinovirus C (HRV-C) and norovirus (NoV), as well as novel insights into viral pathogenesis, including the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Zika virus (ZIKV) infection, and the translational utility of organoids for antiviral drug screening and preclinical assessment. It further examines the use of organoids in modeling cancer and neurological diseases, compares the strengths and limitations of different cellular sources, and discusses their potential integration with emerging technologies such as CRISPR gene editing and 3D bioprinting. In addition, it maps a translational pathway from molecular mechanisms to clinical practice to facilitate the study of disease mechanisms and accelerate drug and vaccine development. Finally, holistic strategies are proposed to address existing challenges, such as the lack of immune components and inadequate vascularization. Together, these efforts aim to promote the broader adoption of organoid technology across the life sciences and translational medicine.},
}

@article {pmid42165098,
year = {2026},
author = {Li, S and Qiu, L and Li, Y and Liu, X and Luo, Z and Liu, J and Ma, X},
title = {Global prevalence of prolonged grief disorder during the COVID-19 pandemic under standardized diagnostic frameworks: A systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Psychological medicine},
volume = {56},
number = {},
pages = {e160},
doi = {10.1017/S0033291726104541},
pmid = {42165098},
issn = {1469-8978},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Grief ; International Classification of Diseases ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {Prolonged grief disorder (PGD), recently classified in ICD-11 and DSM-5-TR, is characterized by persistent and functionally impairing grief lasting beyond 6-12 months. The COVID-19 pandemic was accompanied by widespread mortality, social isolation, disrupted mourning rituals, and social disconnection, raising concerns about a potentially high burden of PGD during the pandemic period. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis, following PRISMA guidelines and PROSPERO registration (CRD42023463720), to estimate PGD prevalence under standardized ICD-11 and DSM-5-TR diagnostic frameworks and to examine potential moderators during the COVID-19 pandemic. PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to October 2024. Eligible studies included adults who experienced bereavement during the pandemic and were assessed using validated PGD instruments (PG-13-R, ICG, BGQ). Random-effects models were applied to pool prevalence estimates, with subgroup and meta-regression analyses. Thirteen studies comprising 5,766 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of PGD during the pandemic period was 24% (95% CI: 13%-36%), with the highest estimates observed in China (43%, 95% CI: 33%-54%). In the overall pooled analysis, studies applying DSM-5-TR criteria yielded lower prevalence estimates than those using ICD-11 criteria (18% vs.26%, p = 0.41). Digital interventions showed no statistically significant pooled effects (Hedges' g = -0.38, 95% CI: -0.90 to 0.14). The high and geographically heterogeneous prevalence of PGD observed during the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the need to strengthen mental health surveillance, standardized assessment, and service accessibility in large-scale public health emergencies, and provides important evidence to inform population-level interventions and resource allocation strategies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Grief
International Classification of Diseases
Global Health

@article {pmid42165724,
year = {2026},
author = {Dhar, RR and Reshmi, B and Holla, R},
title = {Barriers to help-seeking for cancer in India: A scoping review.},
journal = {The Indian journal of medical research},
volume = {163},
number = {4},
pages = {534-540},
doi = {10.25259/IJMR_1676_2025},
pmid = {42165724},
issn = {0971-5916},
mesh = {Humans ; India/epidemiology ; *Neoplasms/therapy/epidemiology/diagnosis/psychology ; *Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Health Services Accessibility ; *Help-Seeking Behavior ; Social Stigma ; Delayed Diagnosis ; },
abstract = {Background and objectives Cancer is a leading cause of death in India, with delays in diagnosis and treatment contributing to poor outcomes. Although several studies document these delays, most focus on single cancer types or specific regions. This review aimed to synthesise evidence across cancers to identify barriers to help-seeking and their implications for cancer control in India. Methods A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley and Levac frameworks, guided by the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework. Systematic searches were carried out in PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus for studies published in English between January 2010 and December 2024. Eligible studies included empirical research on barriers to help-seeking among individuals with cancer in India. Titles and abstracts were screened using Rayyan, followed by full-text review. Data were charted and synthesised thematically. Results Of 349 records screened, 30 studies met the inclusion criteria. Barriers were categorised as: financial and economic, lack of awareness/knowledge, cultural stigma and embarrassment, reliance on alternative medicine, systemic and health system inefficiencies, psychological fear and distrust, family and gender bias, and COVID-19-related disruptions. These factors collectively led to delays in presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer in India. Interpretation and conclusions Delays in cancer care in India arise from intersecting socio-economic, cultural, systemic, and gendered barriers. Strengthening insurance coverage, patient navigation, awareness initiatives, gender-sensitive services, and long-term investments in rural infrastructure and psychosocial support are critical to improving timely cancer care.},
}

Humans
India/epidemiology
*Neoplasms/therapy/epidemiology/diagnosis/psychology
*Patient Acceptance of Health Care/psychology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
Health Services Accessibility
*Help-Seeking Behavior
Social Stigma
Delayed Diagnosis

@article {pmid42166076,
year = {2026},
author = {Haimi, M},
title = {Addressing the silent epidemic: a narrative review and evidence synthesis of digital health and telehealth interventions for loneliness in older adults.},
journal = {Aging clinical and experimental research},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s40520-026-03411-6},
pmid = {42166076},
issn = {1720-8319},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Loneliness and social isolation represent major threats to the health and well-being of older adults, conferring elevated risks for depression, cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and premature mortality. The rapid proliferation of digital health technologies and telehealth services-accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic-has opened new pathways for addressing these challenges at scale.

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review synthesizes the current evidence on the effectiveness of digital health and telehealth interventions in reducing loneliness and social isolation among older adults, examines the diverse modalities employed, identifies barriers to equitable adoption, and proposes directions for future research.

METHODS: A narrative synthesis was conducted drawing on systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and observational studies identified through PubMed, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, primarily spanning 2020-2025. Interventions examined include telehealth video visits, empathy-focused telephone programs, group videoconferencing, digital mental health platforms, mobile health applications, social robots, and AI-enabled companions.

RESULTS: Telehealth video visits, empathy-focused telephone programs, and group-based videoconferencing demonstrate meaningful reductions in loneliness, depression, and anxiety in several RCTs and pilot studies. Digital mental health platforms incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness show promise, as do AI-enabled social robots in institutional and community settings. However, meta-analytic evidence reveals considerable heterogeneity: some pooled analyses report modest to null overall effects, while others find medium effect sizes (d = - 0.47). Intervention effectiveness appears contingent on design features, population characteristics, training support, and integration with existing social networks. The digital divide-limited digital literacy, technology access, usability challenges, and preference for in-person care-remains a challenging barrier to equitable implementation.

CONCLUSIONS: Digital health and telehealth interventions hold considerable promise for mitigating loneliness among older adults. However, their benefits cannot be realized without systematically addressing the digital divide. Large-scale, well-powered RCTs with standardized outcome measures and longer follow-up periods are urgently needed, alongside implementation science research to translate evidence into scalable practice.},
}

@article {pmid42166945,
year = {2026},
author = {Duy, NBP},
title = {What are the intellectual foundations and thematic structures shaping flow experience research in tourism?.},
journal = {Acta psychologica},
volume = {267},
number = {},
pages = {107104},
doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2026.107104},
pmid = {42166945},
issn = {1873-6297},
abstract = {This study addresses the fragmented state of research on flow experience in the tourism sector, an increasingly important concept in the modern experience economy. The main objective was to systematize and map the intellectual structure, development, and future trajectory of this field. Applying a hybrid bibliometric-systematic literature review method, the paper analyzed 118 articles from the Scopus database (2011-2025) using VOSviewer and Bibliometrix. The study's conclusions were further reinforced and validated through a comparative analysis with data extracted from the Web of Science database. Key findings revealed two distinct research phases, with a significant boom after 2020 driven by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of virtual reality (VR) tourism. Thematic analysis revealed a clear knowledge structure, with basic themes serving as the theoretical basis, while motor themes (authenticity and tourism live streaming) drove the current research. This landscape was divided into a psychological core, focused on exploring the nature of the experience, and a managerial core, centered on applying the flow experience for strategic goals. This study contributes a new conceptual framework that organizes the research field into antecedents, flow state, and outcomes, while also providing practical guidance for managers to design engaging experiences.},
}

@article {pmid42167127,
year = {2026},
author = {Boamah, SA and Sedzro, MT and Alexander, A and Ramirez, K and Shams, S and Rugole, D and Zhou, F and Belita, E},
title = {Harnessing leadership experiences for improved healthcare delivery: A scoping review of the experiences of healthcare leaders in navigating crisis.},
journal = {International journal of nursing studies},
volume = {181},
number = {},
pages = {105577},
doi = {10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2026.105577},
pmid = {42167127},
issn = {1873-491X},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented strain on health care systems worldwide, exposing and amplifying longstanding vulnerabilities in leadership and management structures. Although the roles of frontline healthcare workers have been widely documented, the experiences of healthcare leaders remain understudied.

OBJECTIVE: To systematically synthesize global evidence on healthcare leaders' experiences in navigating crises, with a particular focus on the pandemic; and to derive actionable strategies to strengthen crisis preparedness, response capacity, and health system resilience.

DESIGN: A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework. The reporting of the review adhered to the recommendations outlined in the PRISMA-ScR checklist.

METHODS: Peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2020 to 2026 that reported on the experiences of healthcare leaders were included. Gray literature, review articles, and studies that did not explicitly focus on managerial experiences were excluded. Databases including EMBASE, Emcare, CINAHL, MEDLINE (Ovid), PsycINFO, Scopus and Web of Science were searched. A total of 20,107 records were identified, of which 10,203 were screened after deduplication. After full-text review, 277 articles were extracted for analysis. Data extraction followed a structured approach, capturing study characteristics, healthcare settings, and key findings. Thematic analysis was conducted using Delve software, with systematic coding applied to ensure analytical rigor.

RESULTS: Three interrelated themes with 16 sub-themes emerged: (1) navigating leadership challenges during crisis, (2) leadership strategies and adaptive responses, and (3) implications for future crisis leadership and resilient health systems. The findings illuminate how adaptive leadership, judicious resource allocation, transparent communication, digital transformation, and attention to workforce mental health function as critical mechanisms for navigating complex health crises.

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that effective healthcare crisis leadership extends beyond operational competence to require adaptability, clear communication, and sustained commitment to workforce well-being. Strengthening leadership capacity, investing in interoperable digital infrastructure, and embedding mental health supports within crisis preparedness frameworks will be critical to enhancing health system responsiveness and sustaining resilient care delivery during future global disruptions.

SOCIAL MEDIA ABSTRACT: Healthcare leaders showed great adaptability during COVID-19, but lasting system resilience requires more than individual effort. It demands investment in equitable, well-resourced systems, ethical leadership, integrated digital infrastructure, and cultures that support leader and staff well-being. [A scoping review | @SABoamah].},
}

@article {pmid42156133,
year = {2026},
author = {Richter, ML and Ditmore, MH and de Vries, J},
title = {Demanding solidarity, not salvation: sex work and global health.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2025-022050},
pmid = {42156133},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; *Global Health ; *Human Rights ; *Sex Work/legislation & jurisprudence ; *Sex Workers ; },
abstract = {There is increasing attention paid to solidarity in global health, but its substance and definitions remain contested. We explore the tensions between global health institutions' historic approaches to sex work, their commitment to health and human rights and how these are connected to or disconnected from solidarity. We foreground the protracted and incomplete evolution from international health approaches to sex workers as spreaders of pathogens that should be punished, to sex work health programmes that are situated within human rights principles. Thus, substantial resources and material changes to laws, policies and programmes are required to action claims of 'standing in solidarity' with sex workers. We argue that the drastic cuts to global health funding initiated by the Trump Administration in January 2025 require careful consideration of what 'solidarity' with the most marginalised entails and bold action.},
}

Humans
*Global Health
*Human Rights
*Sex Work/legislation & jurisprudence
*Sex Workers

@article {pmid42157493,
year = {2026},
author = {Portillo-Ledesma, S and Lee, S and Laederach, A and Schlick, T},
title = {Open Questions on Viral Frameshifting: Exploiting Structural Plasticity of the Frameshifting Element for Therapeutic Intervention.},
journal = {Biophysical journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.bpj.2026.05.025},
pmid = {42157493},
issn = {1542-0086},
abstract = {Programmed Ribosomal Frameshifting (PRF) is a specialized controlled-slippage genetic mechanism that viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and HIV-1 use to shift the reading frame during translation. This process is used in compact viral genomes to enhance their protein repertoire, maintain a precise balance of viral proteins necessary for successful replication, and enhance survival within a host. Because this mechanism is vital to the viral life cycle and remains consistent across strains, frameshifting has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for new antiviral therapeutic strategies. However, the complexity of the frameshifting process has posed many challenges that need to be addressed so that the relationship between cellular mechanisms and viral replication can be exploited for novel therapeutics. In this mini review, we introduce frameshifting mechanisms, define open questions being explored by many modeling and experimental studies, and illustrate how coarse-grained graphs have been used in our lab to study frameshifting mechanisms. Specifically, we describe how conformational landscapes, mutation designs of frameshifting elements, all-atom molecular dynamics and enhanced sampling simulations have been combined with chemical mapping and functional experiments to advance studies on three viral systems employing -1 PRF: SARS-CoV-2, HIV-1, and Chikungunya.},
}

@article {pmid42158631,
year = {2026},
author = {Dai, CL and Guo, Y and Sharma, M and Chen, CC and Rodriguez, J},
title = {Evidence-based Review of Yoga Interventions for Adolescent Health and Well-being in US Schools.},
journal = {International journal of yoga},
volume = {19},
number = {1},
pages = {10-20},
pmid = {42158631},
issn = {0973-6131},
abstract = {The adolescent behavioral health crisis has intensified pressures to foster both physical health and mental well-being, particularly in the post-COVID-19. Yoga, as a holistic approach, has been integrated into existing curricula and positive behavioral interventions. This review examines the implementation and impact of yoga interventions in the U.S., with a focus on adolescent students in secondary schools, to identify effective strategies and provide recommendations to ensure the sustainable integration of yoga into school-based behavioral health initiatives. The articles were systematically searched from EBSCOhost, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria were: yoga component with physical elements, implemented in U.S. secondary schools as part of PE curricular or school interventions, and published in English in peer-reviewed journals. This review synthesizes findings from 17 studies on yoga interventions, highlighting notable benefits across physical and psychosocial outcomes. While most interventions are integrated into the school day, some alterations, including the afterschool and virtual formats, have emerged, providing insight into accessibility to school health promotion. The review suggests that ongoing research to refine intervention designs, address implementation barriers, and expand the reach of yoga interventions to racially and ethnically diverse populations is warranted. Overall, this review advocates for integrating yoga into health promotion initiatives, which provide adolescents with practical tools to enhance their well-being in the educational setting.},
}

@article {pmid42158816,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, W and Li, X and Ma, H and Li, Y and Xi, Y and Wang, W and Liu, Y and Han, P},
title = {The Adjunctive Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Microbial Infection-Related Conditions.},
journal = {International journal of medical sciences},
volume = {23},
number = {6},
pages = {2154-2165},
pmid = {42158816},
issn = {1449-1907},
mesh = {Humans ; *Hyperbaric Oxygenation/methods ; *COVID-19/therapy ; Mucormycosis/therapy ; Soft Tissue Infections/therapy ; Diabetic Foot/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Combined Modality Therapy ; },
abstract = {Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) demonstrates expanding applications in infectious diseases through its multimodal mechanisms. As an adjunctive treatment, HBOT directly exerts antimicrobial effects through oxygen toxicity and reactive oxygen species generation, while indirectly enhances host immunity by improving neutrophil function and promoting tissue repair. Clinical evidence supports its adjunctive use in complex infections including diabetic foot wounds, necrotizing soft tissue infections, COVID-19, and mucormycosis, particularly in hypoxic wounds where conventional therapies show limited efficacy. While current studies are promising, further randomized trials are needed to standardize protocols and confirm efficacy.},
}

Humans
*Hyperbaric Oxygenation/methods
*COVID-19/therapy
Mucormycosis/therapy
Soft Tissue Infections/therapy
Diabetic Foot/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Combined Modality Therapy

@article {pmid41433133,
year = {2026},
author = {Gunawardena, SA and Chandraratne, A and Jayasekara, TI},
title = {Integrating One Health in human medical curricula: A scoping review of pedagogical strategies and challenges.},
journal = {Medical teacher},
volume = {48},
number = {6},
pages = {1069-1090},
doi = {10.1080/0142159X.2025.2604244},
pmid = {41433133},
issn = {1466-187X},
mesh = {Humans ; *Curriculum ; *Education, Medical/organization & administration ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; *One Health ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been renewed global attention on One Health (OH) as a framework to address the numerous global health challenges. Despite its growing recognition, the integration of OH into medical education has been limited. Many institutions are still unclear on the best approach to introduce and deliver OH within their academic programs.

AIM: To map the pedagogical strategies, implementation experiences, and challenges in integrating OH into medical curricula.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies published between January 2015 and December 2024. Data were charted using a standardized extraction form and synthesized descriptively through thematic content analysis.

RESULTS: A total of 14 articles were found from institutions across North America, Africa, and Europe, representing initiatives ranging from integrated modules and stand-alone courses to extracurricular activities. Many utilized interactive, interdisciplinary pedagogies such as problem-based learning, simulations, capstone projects, and community outreach programs. The expected competencies ranged from interdisciplinary collaboration to recognizing human-animal-environment interconnectedness to applying OH principles in identifying and managing health conditions. Content areas extended beyond zoonotic diseases and environmental health to include broader aspects of health systems and health policy development. All the initiatives emphasized on fostering collaborative competencies and broadening students' perspectives on health. However, implementation was challenged by institutional constraints such as curriculum overload, limited faculty expertise, and logistical barriers to interdisciplinary teaching. Many institutions encountered epistemological resistance and reluctance to move beyond reductionist, human-centric paradigms, which was a likely factor in students finding it difficult to relate OH concepts to their medical practice.

CONCLUSION: The review highlights the importance of faculty capacity building, early introduction of systems thinking, and alignment of clinical training with OH principles to ensure a more sustainable integration of OH in medical education.},
}

Humans
*Curriculum
*Education, Medical/organization & administration
COVID-19/epidemiology
*One Health
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41952170,
year = {2026},
author = {Selby, A and Sutton, A and Bamford, E and Booth, A},
title = {Factors and mitigating strategies impacting receipt of healthcare by the Deaf community: an umbrella review.},
journal = {BMC health services research},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41952170},
issn = {1472-6963},
support = {NIHR207088//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Despite over 70 million Deaf people using sign languages worldwide, their ability to access and receive health services remains disproportionately limited. The Deaf community commonly encounter reduced access to preventive care compared to the hearing population. This umbrella review aims to collate and appraise systematic reviews examining factors and mitigating strategies influencing Deaf people’s receipt of healthcare.

METHODS: The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024563083). Eligible systematic reviews investigated factors affecting healthcare receipt among the Deaf communities in any Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) country. Databases searched included MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Science Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index, and PROSPERO. Screening, data extraction, and quality appraisal (AMSTAR 2) were undertaken independently by reviewers, with disagreements resolved by consensus. Data were synthesised narratively using a purpose-specific conceptual framework, categorising factors as individual or environmental.

RESULTS: From 3,749 records, 32 systematic reviews were included. Most reviews (78%) were rated critically low in quality. Individual-level barriers were dominated by reduced health literacy (reported in 26 reviews), including inadequate access to sign language health information, limited family awareness, and poorer knowledge of medicines and preventive practices. Socioeconomic status, rural residence, minority ethnic background and limited family support were also linked to reduced healthcare access. Environmental factors included communication barriers, low Deaf awareness among healthcare professionals and shortages of qualified interpreters, all of which fostered Deaf people’s mistrust and disengagement with healthcare. Inadequate recording of communication needs, inaccessible complaints processes and COVID-19 policies further exacerbated inequalities. Strategies identified included sign language–adapted health education, interpreter provision, telehealth services, and specialist Deaf health clinics with interpreters, however few reviews offered evidence for effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS: Deaf people experience persistent, multifactorial barriers to equitable healthcare, driven by low health literacy, social disadvantage, poor communication support and systemic failings. Current evidence is largely of low methodological quality, underscoring the need for robust, co-produced research with Deaf communities. Priority areas include redesigning healthcare processes for accessible communication, expanding interpreter provision, and embedding Deaf awareness training into professional education to achieve systemic change.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-026-14444-y.},
}

@article {pmid41995349,
year = {2026},
author = {Schiffer, JT and Reeves, DB and Mayer, B and Rodriguez, LR and Duke, ER and Haddock, B and Avila-Ponce de Leon, U and Iwami, S and Owens, K and Esmaeili-Wellman, S},
title = {Clinical trial simulation of antiviral drugs.},
journal = {Journal of virology},
volume = {100},
number = {5},
pages = {e0181424},
doi = {10.1128/jvi.01814-24},
pmid = {41995349},
issn = {1098-5514},
support = {R01AI77512//National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases/ ; R01 AI186721/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; R01 AI150500/AI/NIAID NIH HHS/United States ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Antiviral Agents/pharmacokinetics/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; *Clinical Trials as Topic ; Computer Simulation ; Viral Load/drug effects ; Models, Theoretical ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/virology ; Models, Biological ; },
abstract = {Antiviral clinical trial simulation (CTS) is a type of mathematical modeling that couples viral- immune dynamics (VID) unique to each human viral pathogen, with mechanistic, pharmacokinetic (PK), and pharmacodynamic (PD) drug characteristics. Validation is achieved by matching model output to detailed viral load trajectories from trials. Antiviral CTS can be applied at all stages of drug development to viruses with distinct shedding patterns. Models can capture the activity of small molecules, neutralizing antibodies, and cellular therapies, as well as combination strategies to enhance potency and avoid drug resistance. Several principles are observed across antiviral CTS models. First, PK and PD models that recapitulate drug levels and concentration-dependent antiviral activity are often necessary, but never sufficient to predict trial results. VID equations are also required to guide optimal treatment timing because expanding immune responses synergistically eliminate infection but are deleterious if too sustained or intense. Therefore, equivalent antiviral doses may have different efficacy if given during different infection stages. Second, antiviral CTS models identify effective plasma drug concentrations in humans, which are often poorly predicted by in vitro assays. Finally, models that do not consider drug mechanisms lead to incorrect efficacy estimates. Data-validated CTS is increasingly used to inform drug dose and dosing interval, treatment timing and duration, virologic endpoint selection, and sample size, particularly when applied to detailed phase 1 and 2 trial data. Given the high expense of antiviral licensure trials, CTS models are vital to optimize trial efficacy and de-risk the drug development process.},
}

Humans
*Antiviral Agents/pharmacokinetics/therapeutic use/pharmacology
*Clinical Trials as Topic
Computer Simulation
Viral Load/drug effects
Models, Theoretical
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/virology
Models, Biological

@article {pmid42151642,
year = {2026},
author = {Cirovic, A and Brankovic, N and Antelj, G and Cirovic, A},
title = {Iron Deficiency as an Important Predictor of Arterial and Venous Thrombosis, Myocarditis, and Atrial Fibrillation in COVID-19 and Influenza.},
journal = {Cardiovascular toxicology},
volume = {26},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {42151642},
issn = {1559-0259},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/diagnosis ; *Atrial Fibrillation/epidemiology/diagnosis/metabolism/etiology/virology ; *Myocarditis/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis/metabolism/etiology ; *Influenza, Human/epidemiology/complications/diagnosis/metabolism ; Receptors, Transferrin/metabolism ; *Venous Thrombosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/etiology ; SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *Iron Deficiencies ; Risk Factors ; *Thrombosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/etiology ; },
abstract = {Arterial and venous thrombosis, atrial fibrillation, and viral myocarditis are potentially life-threatening conditions and well-documented complications of both COVID-19 and influenza. Therefore, clinicians should be aware of all factors that may promote their occurrence, particularly those related to common viral infections such as influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Both influenza and SARS-CoV-2 utilize transferrin receptor 1 (TfR1) to enter host cells; notably, SARS-CoV-2 has been detected in tissues that do not express ACE2. TfR1 is highly expressed on cardiomyocytes, as well as on endothelial cells. Iron deficiency -a common disorder in the general population- promotes overexpression of TfR1, thereby facilitating the entry of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses into cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells. Therefore, an increased expression of the TfR1 on cardiomyocytes may consequently contribute to the development of viral myocarditis, and atrial fibrillation. Finally, TfR1 is involved in viral uptake by endothelial cells and in molecular pathways implicated in thrombus formation. Clinicians should recognize that individuals with iron deficiency and concomitant SARS-CoV-2 or influenza infection may be at increased risk of arterial and venous thrombosis, atrial fibrillation, and viral myocarditis. Given that approximately two billion people worldwide have some degree of iron deficiency-especially older adults and young children-appropriate preventive strategies should be considered.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology/diagnosis
*Atrial Fibrillation/epidemiology/diagnosis/metabolism/etiology/virology
*Myocarditis/epidemiology/virology/diagnosis/metabolism/etiology
*Influenza, Human/epidemiology/complications/diagnosis/metabolism
Receptors, Transferrin/metabolism
*Venous Thrombosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/etiology
SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*Iron Deficiencies
Risk Factors
*Thrombosis/epidemiology/diagnosis/etiology

@article {pmid42151979,
year = {2026},
author = {Bergsträsser, J and Schmahl, T and Steinhäuser, J and Goetz, K},
title = {Interventions against loneliness and social isolation in older adults- a systematic review.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42151979},
issn = {1471-2458},
mesh = {Humans ; *Loneliness/psychology ; *Social Isolation/psychology ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Aged ; Middle Aged ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Loneliness is a growing health and social challenge. The COVID-19 pandemic boosted feelings of loneliness for many people. To combat loneliness, a wide range of interventions have been developed and evaluated for their efficacy and effectiveness. As a result, many new interventions to alleviate loneliness have been developed, especially technological interventions. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive and up-to-date systematic review to identify interventions aimed at loneliness and social isolation among adults, 60 years and older published during or post-pandemic.

METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted for studies between 2020 and 2024 across five online databases: MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL. Title and abstract screening, critical appraisal of the studies, and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. A narrative approach was adopted to assess and integrate the diverse findings from the research.

RESULTS: Ultimately, 79 studies were included in this systematic review. The results are structured based on the categorization of the interventions, which includes differentiation between analogue interventions, technological interventions and multicomponent (analogue and technological) interventions. The effectiveness of analogue interventions, particularly community-based interventions such as group meetings, social participation programs, and educational or psychological interventions, tended to be superior to that of technological interventions.

CONCLUSIONS: The combination of analogue and technological interventions in particular produced promising results regarding a decrease of loneliness. Specific interventions must be tailored to the target group and setting and regularly reevaluated. The aim now should be to implement these interventions comprehensively and monitor their effectiveness over several years. Future research should focus on differentiating the circumstances under which various forms of intervention are effective.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO systematic review registration: CRD42024538755.},
}

Humans
*Loneliness/psychology
*Social Isolation/psychology
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Aged
Middle Aged

@article {pmid42152524,
year = {2026},
author = {Kim, J and Lee, H and Jang, YS},
title = {Macrophage Immune Responses in Viral Infections: Functional Plasticity and Therapeutic Targeting.},
journal = {Journal of microbiology and biotechnology},
volume = {36},
number = {},
pages = {e2602035},
doi = {10.4014/jmb.2602.02035},
pmid = {42152524},
issn = {1738-8872},
mesh = {Humans ; *Macrophages/immunology ; COVID-19/immunology/virology ; *Virus Diseases/immunology/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; Animals ; Immunity, Innate ; Macrophage Activation ; Cytokines/immunology ; Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {Macrophages play dual roles, contributing to both protection and disease progression during viral infections. As crucial immune cells against pathogens, they activate innate immunity by releasing antiviral agents and inflammatory cytokines. At the same time, they serve as targets for infection and as carriers of viruses, thereby contributing to viral dissemination. This review emphasizes macrophage plasticity and the functional shifts it undergoes during M1/M2 polarization. It also explores mechanisms that maintain persistent viral reservoirs in chronic infections such as SARS-CoV-2 and discusses the impact of macrophage dysregulation on the immune microenvironment. Furthermore, it highlights recent advances in macrophage-targeted therapies, including reprogramming macrophages for homeostasis, eliminating pathogenic macrophages, and boosting antiviral responses.},
}

Humans
*Macrophages/immunology
COVID-19/immunology/virology
*Virus Diseases/immunology/therapy
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
Animals
Immunity, Innate
Macrophage Activation
Cytokines/immunology
Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid42153918,
year = {2026},
author = {Thain, BK},
title = {Syndemic Effects of Covid-19 Lockdown on Chemsex and HIV Among MSM in Malaysia: A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of the International Association of Providers of AIDS Care},
volume = {25},
number = {},
pages = {23259582261447929},
doi = {10.1177/23259582261447929},
pmid = {42153918},
issn = {2325-9582},
mesh = {Humans ; Malaysia/epidemiology ; *HIV Infections/epidemiology/psychology/transmission ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology/prevention & control ; Male ; *Homosexuality, Male/psychology/statistics & numerical data ; *Syndemic ; *Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology/psychology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Sexual Behavior/psychology ; Chemsex ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Chemsex, sexual activity under the influence of psychoactive substances, remains a major public health concern for men who have sex with men (MSM) globally. In Malaysia's conservative context, the convergence of chemsex and HIV transmission presents complex challenges. This narrative review examines how the Covid-19 pandemic and extended lockdown disrupted HIV services and intensified psychosocial stressors, amplifying chemsex, HIV, and mental health issues among Malaysian MSM.

METHODS: A systematic search of international databases (2018-2025) identified relevant studies through keyword screening of articles, abstracts, and full texts.

KEY FINDINGS: The Covid-19 lockdown exacerbated psychosocial stressors such as isolation and minority stress, altered chemsex patterns, and increased drug use. Disruption of HIV testing and treatment delayed diagnoses and potentially heightened transmission, while PrEP uptake remained low (18.3%) despite awareness.

CONCLUSION: The pandemic intensified syndemic interactions concerning chemsex, HIV, and mental health. Urgent, integrated, person-centered intervention is needed to address this multifaceted crisis.},
}

Humans
Malaysia/epidemiology
*HIV Infections/epidemiology/psychology/transmission
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology/prevention & control
Male
*Homosexuality, Male/psychology/statistics & numerical data
*Syndemic
*Substance-Related Disorders/epidemiology/psychology
SARS-CoV-2
*Sexual Behavior/psychology
Chemsex

@article {pmid42154963,
year = {2026},
author = {Clarke, C and Esposito, D and Urdaneta, V and Mukherjee, P and Buttery, AK},
title = {Safety of COVID-19 mRNA-1273 booster doses in Asian populations: A literature review of post-marketing observational studies.},
journal = {Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics},
volume = {22},
number = {1},
pages = {2662118},
doi = {10.1080/21645515.2026.2662118},
pmid = {42154963},
issn = {2164-554X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology ; Observational Studies as Topic ; Asia/epidemiology ; *2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Product Surveillance, Postmarketing ; *Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage ; Asian People ; },
abstract = {Real-world data on the safety of COVID-19 booster doses in Asian populations are needed to inform national immunization programs. The safety profile of mRNA-1273 (Moderna, Inc.) was evaluated using post-marketing observational data. PubMed and EMBASE were searched on June 30, 2025, for studies meeting the following predefined criteria: observational design, adverse events (AEs), mRNA-1273 boosters (dose 3+), and population data from the South-East Asia and Western-Pacific regions. Data on study characteristics, and AE incidence and severity, were extracted. Of 886 records screened, 27 studies from eight countries (Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore) met the inclusion criteria. Across studies, mRNA-1273 boosters were well tolerated, with severe AEs occurring at low frequency. Based on the included observational studies, these findings support the favorable safety profile of mRNA-1273 boosters in Asian populations. Long-term safety monitoring is needed to guide public-health responses to evolving SARS-CoV-2 variants.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/prevention & control/immunology/epidemiology
Observational Studies as Topic
Asia/epidemiology
*2019-nCoV Vaccine mRNA-1273/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Product Surveillance, Postmarketing
*Immunization, Secondary/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
Asian People

@article {pmid42156022,
year = {2026},
author = {Murai, H},
title = {[Imported Infectious Diseases of the Nervous System].},
journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo},
volume = {78},
number = {5},
pages = {432-436},
doi = {10.11477/mf.188160960780050432},
pmid = {42156022},
issn = {1881-6096},
mesh = {Humans ; Animals ; *Communicable Diseases, Imported/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control ; COVID-19 ; Rabies/epidemiology ; Japan/epidemiology ; *Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Although sanitary conditions in Japan are generally favorable, pathogens may be introduced by patients who acquire the infections overseas. Dengue fever has a high global incidence, with nearly 200 cases occurring annually in Japan. Most of these infections are acquired in Southeast Asia. As dengue fever is transmitted by mosquitoes, preventive measures against insect bites are important. The incidence of Japanese encephalitis has markedly decreased in Japan owing to widespread vaccination. This disease is mosquito-borne, and only approximately 1% of infected individuals develop symptoms. However, once symptoms appear, the mortality rate is 20-30%. A characteristic clinical feature of this condition is the presence of extrapyramidal symptoms. Rabies is a representative disease transmitted through dog bites. In Japan, its incidence has dramatically declined owing to canine vaccination and the control of stray dogs. Once rabies develops, the fulminant form accounts for 70-80% of cases. Measles is a representative disease that is transmitted between humans. It is highly contagious and requires careful monitoring. During the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic, the number of measles cases decreased. Recently, the trend has reversed, with many patients believed to have been infected in Vietnam.},
}

Humans
Animals
*Communicable Diseases, Imported/epidemiology/transmission/prevention & control
COVID-19
Rabies/epidemiology
Japan/epidemiology
*Nervous System Diseases/epidemiology

@article {pmid42156048,
year = {2026},
author = {Shimohata, T},
title = {[COVID-19-Associated Encephalitis and Encephalopathy: Current Status].},
journal = {Brain and nerve = Shinkei kenkyu no shinpo},
volume = {78},
number = {5},
pages = {567-572},
doi = {10.11477/mf.188160960780050567},
pmid = {42156048},
issn = {1881-6096},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Brain Diseases/therapy/virology/etiology ; *Encephalitis, Viral/therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Child ; *Encephalitis/therapy ; },
abstract = {In recent years, the incidence of COVID-19-associated encephalitis and encephalopathy has decreased due to viral mutations and the acquisition of population immunity. The underlying mechanisms are now thought to involve immune-mediated pathology and cerebral microvascular injury, rather than direct viral invasion. In adults, encephalitis and encephalopathy are independent predictors of disease severity and mortality. In children, acute necrotizing encephalopathy is associated with high mortality rates and long-term neurological sequelae. Regarding treatment, correction of reversible factors and timely immunotherapy are essential, and favorable responses to high-dose corticosteroids and interleukin-6 receptor blockade have been reported.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Brain Diseases/therapy/virology/etiology
*Encephalitis, Viral/therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Child
*Encephalitis/therapy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Humans
*COVID-19 Vaccines/adverse effects/administration & dosage
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Adult
Middle Aged
Aged
Female
United States
Young Adult
Adolescent
Immunocompromised Host
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41974008,
year = {2026},
author = {Albaloul, H and Nemer, A and Saini, N and Schuster, MG},
title = {Infectious Diseases: What You May Have Missed in 2025.},
journal = {Annals of internal medicine},
volume = {179},
number = {5_Supplement},
pages = {e2600983},
doi = {10.7326/ANNALS-26-00983},
pmid = {41974008},
issn = {1539-3704},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19/prevention & control ; *Sexually Transmitted Diseases/prevention & control/drug therapy ; Female ; Male ; Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use ; HIV Infections/drug therapy ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Urinary Tract Infections/prevention & control/drug therapy ; Vaginosis, Bacterial/prevention & control/drug therapy ; },
abstract = {This article highlights clinical trials on infectious diseases published in 2025 that we believe are highly relevant to internal medicine physicians who are not infectious diseases specialists. Selected studies address prevention and treatment strategies across infectious diseases. We highlight 2 studies of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): one examining the effectiveness of treating male partners to reduce recurrence of bacterial vaginosis and another study of doxycycline as postexposure prophylaxis against bacterial STI. A strategy for using methanamine hippurate to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in older women is included in our review. We review the updated evidence supporting the effectiveness of COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza vaccines for the 2025-2026 season, and a modified messenger RNA influenza vaccine, which showed superior efficacy with an acceptable safety profile. In HIV care, a study of dual antiretroviral maintenance therapy showed that dolutegravir and lamivudine was noninferior to triple therapy at 48 weeks. A meta-analysis supporting shorter antibiotic courses for pyelonephritis and complicated UTIs provides important information for antibiotic stewardship strategies. In serious infections, dalbavancin was noninferior to standard therapy for Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, whereas cefiderocol expanded treatment options for gram-negative bloodstream infections without clear superiority, particularly in carbapenem-resistant pathogens. Finally, a study found that elevated C-reactive protein identifies patients most likely to benefit from adjunctive corticosteroids in community-acquired pneumonia.},
}

Humans
COVID-19/prevention & control
*Sexually Transmitted Diseases/prevention & control/drug therapy
Female
Male
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
HIV Infections/drug therapy
SARS-CoV-2
Urinary Tract Infections/prevention & control/drug therapy
Vaginosis, Bacterial/prevention & control/drug therapy

@article {pmid42144551,
year = {2026},
author = {Chehade, M and Meyers, S and McCright-Gill, T and Gifford, R and Sahin, M and Shy, ME and Manion, M and Campbell, D and Rothenberg, ME and Macaluso, M},
title = {Collaboration as a Catalyst for Advancing Rare Disease Research: The Experience of the Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network.},
journal = {Clinical and translational science},
volume = {19},
number = {6},
pages = {e70585},
doi = {10.1111/cts.70585},
pmid = {42144551},
issn = {1752-8062},
mesh = {*Rare Diseases/therapy/diagnosis ; Humans ; *Biomedical Research/organization & administration ; *Cooperative Behavior ; Information Dissemination ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; United States ; National Institutes of Health (U.S.) ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The Rare Diseases Clinical Research Network (RDCRN) was established to improve diagnosis, treatment, and research collaboration across rare diseases through collaborative, multi-site, translational, and clinical research. Its governance framework promotes efficient data sharing and collaboration among research consortia, NIH representatives, and patient advocacy groups (PAGs). This infrastructure facilitates coordinated efforts to advance rare disease research through shared resources and communication. Prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on rare disease patients, the RDCRN recognized cross-consortia collaboration as a priority. Its policies promote data sharing while protecting participant confidentiality. PAGs participate in governance, study design, and regulatory discussions, helping to identify patient-relevant priorities, improve recruitment and retention, and strengthen trust between researchers and patients. Cross-consortia efforts have addressed challenges like biomarker identification and harmonization of clinical measures, leading to new methods and standardized data collection that benefit multiple rare diseases. Studies by teams focusing on different diseases have led to improved diagnostic tools by addressing overlapping disease presentations. The RDCRN offers scholars cross-consortia opportunities for presentations, competitions, and NIH training collaborations, fostering growth and networking. Network meetings promote exchange and process standardization; pilot projects facilitate independent grant submissions, forming a pipeline of skilled investigators. The RDCRN fosters trust, shared vision, and open communication by cultivating a culture of mutual respect, shared learning, and collective problem solving. By engaging a wide range of stakeholders, it has aligned its research with patient needs, advancing innovation. Its high-impact publications, effective mentoring programs, and pioneering cross-consortia initiatives underscore the value of collaboration in rare disease research.},
}

*Rare Diseases/therapy/diagnosis
Humans
*Biomedical Research/organization & administration
*Cooperative Behavior
Information Dissemination
COVID-19/epidemiology
United States
National Institutes of Health (U.S.)
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42144754,
year = {2026},
author = {Cho, JY and Kim, KH},
title = {Current Challenges and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies in Acute Myocarditis.},
journal = {Korean circulation journal},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.4070/kcj.2026.0006},
pmid = {42144754},
issn = {1738-5520},
abstract = {Acute myocarditis encompasses a heterogeneous group of inflammatory myocardial disorders with clinical presentations ranging from self-limited chest pain to fulminant cardiogenic shock. Despite advances in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and molecular diagnostics, substantial uncertainty persists regarding early diagnosis, etiologic classification, and optimal therapeutic strategies. Current management relies largely on supportive care, as robust randomized evidence guiding immunomodulatory therapy remains limited and confined to selected virus-negative or autoimmune phenotypes. This review synthesizes contemporary evidence on the pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges, and treatment paradigms of acute myocarditis, with a particular focus on the critical distinction between virus-positive and virus-negative disease. We discuss established supportive and guideline-directed therapies, emerging immunomodulatory approaches-including corticosteroids, biologics targeting interleukin-1, complement, and mammalian target of rapamycin pathways-and the evolving role of mechanical circulatory support in fulminant myocarditis. COVID-19 vaccination-related myocarditis is highlighted as a modern example of immune-triggered, predominantly virus-negative myocarditis, illustrating both the generally favorable prognosis and the potential for severe clinical courses. Finally, this review outlines future directions toward precision immunocardiology, emphasizing the integration of endomyocardial biopsy, molecular virology, multi-omics profiling, and artificial intelligence-guided phenotyping to enable mechanism-driven, individualized therapy. Advancing from empirical management to precision-based intervention will be essential to improving outcomes in acute myocarditis.},
}

@article {pmid42146723,
year = {2026},
author = {Shipton, A and Mcbain, K and Wake, M and Goldfeld, S and Mensah, F},
title = {Policy Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic in High-Income Countries and the Associated Maternal-Infant Health Outcomes: A Systematic Literature and Policy Review.},
journal = {Health science reports},
volume = {9},
number = {5},
pages = {e71523},
pmid = {42146723},
issn = {2398-8835},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Foreseeing how policy impacts pregnant women and infants is limited by ethical challenges of experimental research within these groups. The COVID-19 pandemic generated natural experiments, offering rare opportunities to explore associations between specific policy responses and maternal-infant health outcomes. These insights are useful for informing policy design aligned with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

AIMS: To systematically review evidence of associations between COVID-19 policies, OxCGRT Stringency Index (a University of Oxford tool for comparing the stringency of policies) and maternal-infant health outcomes during pregnancy, birth, and the first 12 months postpartum from 2020-2022 in high-income countries.

METHODS: Following PRISMA guidelines, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched (January 1 2020-July 9 2022) using subject headings, keywords, and variants for "COVID-19", "policies", "perinatal", and "randomized", and "non-randomized" study designs. Eligible studies were from high-income countries, published in English, and used comparison groups. Two reviewers independently extracted and analyzed data. Heterogeneity and risk of bias made meta-analysis inappropriate. Outcomes were instead reported using tables and visuals of effect sizes, ratio estimates, and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS: Of 3143 citations, 35 studies met inclusion criteria. All reported high OxCGRT Stringency Index during exposure, validating the fidelity of adhering to defined policy exposure periods. Lockdown was associated with reductions in preterm and low birthweight births, infant emergency admissions, and breast feeding women, and increases in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus. Telehealth was associated with earlier gestational age at antenatal visits and less breast feeding women. Maternal mental health and stillbirth results were mixed.

CONCLUSION: High stringency policies, including lockdowns and telehealth, were associated with both favorable and adverse maternal-infant outcomes. Findings inform avenues for future causal inference research and areas for mitigation planning should high stringency policies be reintroduced, supporting progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.},
}

@article {pmid42146922,
year = {2026},
author = {Ravi, N and Bamgbose, MO and Abdelkhalek, YY and Parkar, S and Alnasser, Y},
title = {Telemedicine for new immigrant children in the US: a tool for equity or another layer of disparity?.},
journal = {Frontiers in pediatrics},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1814069},
pmid = {42146922},
issn = {2296-2360},
abstract = {Telemedicine refers to the use of digital communication tools to deliver healthcare services. In pediatrics care in the United States (US), it has become an important approach to expand access to primary and subspecialty care while reducing travel demands and improving continuity of care, particularly for children in remote and underserved communities. Evidence consistently shows that telemedicine can supplement in-person visits while maintaining high levels of family satisfaction and clinical effectiveness among American families. This narrative review was developed to assess the applicability of telemedicine for new immigrant families in the US using a structured literature search across PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane of published English literature. Peer-reviewed studies were included if they were conducted in the last 50 years and focused on pediatric patients from birth to 21 years of age. Findings were synthesized to evaluate the acceptance, accessibility, feasibility, and applicability of telemedicine for new immigrant children in the US. Across the reviewed literature, telemedicine has meaningful potential in narrowing health disparities faced by new immigrant families such as transportation, specialist shortages, scheduling delays, limited English proficiency, and difficulty navigating the complex healthcare system. Furthermore, telemedicine can connect families with providers who share similar cultural and linguistic backgrounds, thereby strengthening cultural sensitivity and trust. Still, it comes with several obstacles limiting its use among new immigrant families. From digital divide, poor network coverage, low health literacy, privacy concerns, immigration-related concerns, to mistrust, the challenges are numerous. Studies during the COVID-19 pandemic found low acceptance and infeasibility of telemedicine for new immigrant families. However, telemedicine offers multiple opportunities and future directions to better serve immigrant children and their families. Expanding multilingual telehealth platforms and integrating telemedicine access points into schools, community centers, and immigrant resource hubs can enhance accessibility, usability, and acceptance. Pairing telemedicine with artificial intelligence can have huge future potential and might be a tool for inclusive care at lower cost. Furthermore, policy amendments, particularly broader Medicaid telemedicine coverage and mandates for interpreter integration into telemedicine workflows, are essential for promoting more equitable access with higher acceptance and more applicability for new immigrant children in the US.},
}

@article {pmid42147457,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhang, Y and Sun, Y and Wang, J and Wang, L and Fang, R and Wu, X and Yang, X and Guo, Y and Li, S},
title = {A Scoping Review of Machine Learning Applications Across Epidemiological Stages of Zoonotic Disease.},
journal = {Transboundary and emerging diseases},
volume = {2026},
number = {},
pages = {2215823},
pmid = {42147457},
issn = {1865-1682},
mesh = {*Zoonoses/epidemiology/prevention & control ; *Machine Learning ; Animals ; Humans ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; Global Health ; },
abstract = {Emerging zoonotic diseases represent a significant threat to global health. While machine learning (ML) holds promise for their management, a comprehensive understanding of how these technologies are applied across the entire animal-to-human transmission pathway is lacking. This scoping review systematically maps ML applications in zoonotic disease management to identify research trends, methodological approaches, and critical gaps across different epidemiological stages and functional domains. We organize the literature along two dimensions: epidemiological stages, from animal hosts to human populations, and functional domain, including diagnosis, epidemiology, and intervention. We searched PubMed and Web of Science for studies on 14 preselected high-priority zoonotic diseases. The search string combined keywords for the selected diseases, ML techniques, and functional applications (diagnosis, epidemiology, and intervention). A total of 966 studies were included in the final analysis, of which 72.8% focused on COVID-19. Our analysis shows robust ML performance in clinical diagnostics, epidemic forecasting, and intervention optimization within human populations. However, critical gaps persist, only 1.96% of studies examined the animal-human interface, no ML models explicitly targeted spillover prevention, and studies on animal-reservoir surveillance remain limited. All spillover studies originated from high-income or upper-middle-income countries (UMICs), in contrast with low- and lower-middle-income countries (LMICs) contributing 21.4% of human-stage studies. These findings reveal a pronounced mismatch between research investment and spillover risk and highlight the need for greater emphasis on spillover mechanisms, enhanced integration of cross-species transmission dynamics, and methods suitable for surveillance in resource-limited settings. Addressing these imbalances is essential for advancing a shift from reactive outbreak response to proactive spillover prevention within a One Health framework.},
}

*Zoonoses/epidemiology/prevention & control
*Machine Learning
Animals
Humans
COVID-19/epidemiology
Global Health

@article {pmid42148087,
year = {2026},
author = {Huang, ZY and Chen, J and Zhu, B and Liu, XL},
title = {Infection risk associated with teclistamab in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trial and real-world evidence.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1804838},
pmid = {42148087},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *Multiple Myeloma/drug therapy/immunology ; *Antibodies, Bispecific/adverse effects/therapeutic use ; *Infections/etiology/epidemiology ; Clinical Trials as Topic ; Incidence ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Teclistamab, a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) × CD3 bispecific antibody (BsAb), has shown remarkable efficacy in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM). However, its mechanism leads to profound hypogammaglobulinemia, making infection a critical concern. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to quantify the infectious burden and contrast outcomes between clinical trial and real-world evidence (RWE).

METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting infection outcomes in RRMM patients treated with teclistamab. Pooled incidences of any-grade and grade ≥3 infections were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis compared the pivotal MajesTEC-1 trial with multi-institutional RWE cohorts.

RESULTS: Five studies encompassing 714 patients were included. The overall pooled incidence was 56.5% (95% CI: 43.1%-69.9%) for any-grade infections and 27.6% (95% CI: 21.0%-34.3%) for grade ≥3 infections. Subgroup analysis revealed a significantly higher risk in the clinical trial compared to RWE (Any-grade: 76.4% vs. 45.4%, p< 0.01; Grade ≥3: 44.8% vs. 22.8%, p<0.01). Infection-related mortality was reported in all cohorts, ranging from 0.9% to 7.3%, with COVID-19 and opportunistic pathogens (for example, Pneumocystis jirovecii) being prevalent. Significant heterogeneity was driven by variations in follow-up duration and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) prophylaxis rates (range: 41.8%-81.3%).

CONCLUSIONS: Teclistamab is associated with a substantial and cumulative infectious burden. The lower infection rates in RWE may reflect shorter follow-up and evolving prophylactic strategies. Standardized infection surveillance, including regular IgG monitoring and consideration of IVIG replacement in patients with low IgG levels, may help optimize the safety of BCMA-directed bispecific therapies.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD420261297645.},
}

Humans
*Multiple Myeloma/drug therapy/immunology
*Antibodies, Bispecific/adverse effects/therapeutic use
*Infections/etiology/epidemiology
Clinical Trials as Topic
Incidence

@article {pmid42148106,
year = {2026},
author = {Guo, H and Wang, H and Wu, S and Lin, H and Wang, G and Pu, Q},
title = {Determinants of success and failure of antibody-based strategies against respiratory viruses: insights from RSV and SARS-CoV-2.},
journal = {Frontiers in immunology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1818721},
pmid = {42148106},
issn = {1664-3224},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/immunology ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology/therapy ; *COVID-19/immunology/therapy ; *Antibodies, Viral/immunology/therapeutic use ; *Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology/therapeutic use ; *Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human/immunology ; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology ; Epitopes/immunology ; Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) represent two extremes in the outcome of antibody-based interventions. The long-acting monoclonal antibody nirsevimab has achieved durable, population-level protection against RSV in infants, reducing hospitalizations by 70-90% with no evidence of antigenic escape. In contrast, all neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 became obsolete within three years due to rapid viral evolution, particularly in the spike receptor-binding domain. This review dissects the mechanistic determinants underlying this divergence. We propose four key principles that govern antibody efficacy against respiratory viruses: (i) targeting a structurally conserved epitope with high fitness cost for escape; (ii) achieving sufficient antibody concentrations in the airway epithelial lining fluid; (iii) the vulnerability of single-epitope strategies against mutable viral targets; and (iv) the auxiliary but non-substitutable role of Fc effector functions. By comparing RSV and SARS-CoV-2, we illustrate how these principles align in successful interventions and fail in others. Finally, we discuss emerging strategies-particularly inhaled delivery and mRNA-encoded antibodies-that may overcome current limitations and enable durable protection against antigenically variable respiratory pathogens.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/immunology
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections/immunology/therapy
*COVID-19/immunology/therapy
*Antibodies, Viral/immunology/therapeutic use
*Antibodies, Neutralizing/immunology/therapeutic use
*Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Human/immunology
Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus/immunology
Epitopes/immunology
Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use/immunology
Animals

@article {pmid42149126,
year = {2026},
author = {Akinbolade, S and Potter, R and Inskip, A and Nesworthy, J and Brock, K and Norman, G},
title = {Repurposed Medicines for Viruses With Epidemic or Pandemic Potential: A Horizon Scan.},
journal = {Pharmacology research & perspectives},
volume = {14},
number = {3},
pages = {e70271},
doi = {10.1002/prp2.70271},
pmid = {42149126},
issn = {2052-1707},
support = {HSRIC-2016-10 009//National Institute for Health and Care Research/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Drug Repositioning/methods ; *Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Pandemics ; *COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; SARS-CoV-2/drug effects ; COVID-19 ; Animals ; *Virus Diseases/drug therapy/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {Viruses such as Ebola, Marburg, influenza, mpox, MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2 may be considered pathogens of epidemic or pandemic concern. Developing novel antiviral medicines can be time-consuming and resource intensive. Repurposing existing medicines with known or potential antiviral activity offers a faster, cost-effective strategy to expand treatment options during public health emergencies. This scan aimed to map current investigational activity involving repurposed medicines for these viruses. A horizon scanning approach was employed, starting with a targeted search in Embase followed by a systematic search of ClinicalTrials.gov to identify developmental stages of relevant technologies. Eligible technologies included UK- or EU-licensed medicines being investigated for antiviral use, while vaccines, unlicensed medicines, and treatments already approved for the target viruses were excluded. From the literature, 196 repurposed technologies were identified, and the expanded search on the clinical trials registry revealed 58 technologies in active clinical development. Interventional trial activity was limited to influenza and SARS-CoV-2, with 29 technologies for SARS-CoV-2 and two influenza technologies advancing to phase III evaluation. For other viruses, candidate repurposed technologies were identified only at preclinical or exploratory stages. Frequently investigated pharmacological classes included direct-acting antivirals, immunomodulators, and anti-inflammatory agents. While repurposing represents a potentially rapid strategy for therapeutic deployment, inclusion in this horizon scan does not imply clinical efficacy. Rigorous preclinical validation, pharmacokinetic feasibility assessment, and mechanistic confirmation remain essential before clinical translation.},
}

Humans
*Drug Repositioning/methods
*Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Pandemics
*COVID-19 Drug Treatment
SARS-CoV-2/drug effects
COVID-19
Animals
*Virus Diseases/drug therapy/epidemiology

@article {pmid42149279,
year = {2026},
author = {Abu-Qatouseh, L and Al-Kubaisi, K and Laham, NA and Al-Adham, I and Collier, PJ},
title = {Pandemic Preparedness and Health System Resilience: Lessons from Jordan's COVID-19 Response.},
journal = {Journal of community health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42149279},
issn = {1573-3610},
abstract = {This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of Jordan's health sector preparedness and response to the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2025. It critically examines the national response framework, the capacity and challenges of frontline healthcare workers, and the systemic strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare system. The article further explores the multifaceted economic and social impacts of the pandemic on Jordanian society, including the effects on the economy, education, and mental health. Finally, it discusses the post-pandemic improvements and long-term strategies being implemented to strengthen the resilience of Jordan's healthcare system. The findings indicate that while Jordan's initial response was robust and well-coordinated, the prolonged nature of the pandemic exposed significant vulnerabilities in resource availability, practical training, and the psychological well-being of healthcare workers. By 2025, Jordan has made substantial progress in institutional reforms and health system strengthening, although challenges remain in sustaining these improvements. This review synthesizes the key lessons learned [1] and offers evidence-based recommendations for enhancing institutional preparedness and resilience for future public health emergencies. The experience of Jordan provides valuable insights for other resource-constrained settings facing similar health security challenges.},
}

@article {pmid42149692,
year = {2026},
author = {Amahong, K and Liu, Y and Zhang, Z and Tao, L and Sarshad, AA and Zhu, F},
title = {An integrative meta-analysis of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-protein interactomes identifies conserved host factors shared with other RNA viruses.},
journal = {Briefings in functional genomics},
volume = {25},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1093/bfgp/elag001},
pmid = {42149692},
issn = {2041-2657},
mesh = {*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/metabolism ; Humans ; *RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; *COVID-19/virology/metabolism ; *RNA, Viral/metabolism/genetics ; *RNA Viruses/metabolism/genetics ; *Host-Pathogen Interactions ; Zika Virus/genetics ; Dengue Virus/genetics ; },
abstract = {RNA viruses cause substantial global disease burden and depend on host RNA-binding proteins and translation machinery. However, it remains unclear which host factors are robustly engaged across independent Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA interactome studies and to what extent these factors are shared with other RNA viruses. Here, we perform an integrative meta-analysis of eight published SARS-CoV-2 RNA-protein interactomes and compare them with corresponding Influenza A virus, Zika virus, and Dengue virus datasets to define conserved host networks and prioritize candidate host-directed antiviral targets. By integrating multiple datasets and applying ClusterProfiler together with curated pathway resources (KEGG, Reactome, WikiPathways, and Gene Ontology), we systematically characterize the functional landscape of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-protein interactions. The consensus SARS-CoV-2 interactome is enriched for mRNA processing, translation, RNA surveillance and innate immune functions. Cross-viral comparison identifies 275 host proteins shared across all four RNA viruses, forming interconnected modules that include key translation factors (EEF1A1, EIF4A1, EIF3H) and RNA-binding proteins (Nucleolin, ILF3). Drug-target annotation prioritizes 21 proteins with 35 approved or investigational modulators for host-directed antiviral repurposing. Together, these findings generate a consensus map of conserved host dependencies and highlight prioritized targets for future mechanistic and translational studies. Research Highlights Integrated SARS-CoV-2 datasets and compared with, Influenza A virus, Zika virus, Dengue virus. Identified 275 host proteins shared across these four pathogens. Conserved proteins were enriched in translation, RNA processing, and innate immune pathways. Prioritized 21 host targets and 35 drugs for antiviral repurposing.},
}

*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/metabolism
Humans
*RNA-Binding Proteins/metabolism/genetics
*COVID-19/virology/metabolism
*RNA, Viral/metabolism/genetics
*RNA Viruses/metabolism/genetics
*Host-Pathogen Interactions
Zika Virus/genetics
Dengue Virus/genetics

@article {pmid42151636,
year = {2026},
author = {Khateb, AM},
title = {Review of the Microbial Spectrum of Mixed Respiratory Fungal Infections.},
journal = {Journal of epidemiology and global health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1007/s44197-026-00583-2},
pmid = {42151636},
issn = {2210-6014},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This review examines the increasing clinical challenge of mixed respiratory fungal infections (MRFIs), emphasizing interkingdom interactions and their impact on disease progression and patient outcomes.

MAIN BODY: We critically analyze current literature on the clinical implications, risk factors, and diagnostic complexities of MRFIs, with a primary focus on fungal-bacterial, fungal-viral, and fungal-parasitic co-infections. Fungal-bacterial co-infections, often involving Candida spp. and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, significantly worsen disease severity. Fungal-viral co-infections, particularly in COVID-19 patients with Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, represent a major threat. While rare, fungal-parasitic co-infections pose risks for immunocompromised individuals. The review highlights diagnostic difficulties due to non-specific symptoms and the vital need to distinguish colonization from true infection. It also explores the complex symbiotic, synergistic, and antagonistic relationships between fungi and other microorganisms, alongside the immune-modulating role of commensal fungi.

CONCLUSION: Ultimately, this review seeks to enhance understanding of MRFIs to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and patient care.},
}

@article {pmid41730387,
year = {2026},
author = {Lefere, S and Koot, BGP and Mann, JP and Bufler, P and De Bruyne, R and Hudert, CA},
title = {Update in clinical science: MASLD in children and adolescents.},
journal = {Journal of hepatology},
volume = {84},
number = {6},
pages = {1164-1177},
doi = {10.1016/j.jhep.2026.02.016},
pmid = {41730387},
issn = {1600-0641},
mesh = {Humans ; Child ; Adolescent ; *Fatty Liver/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis/etiology ; Risk Factors ; Prevalence ; COVID-19/complications ; Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome ; },
abstract = {Paediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an increasingly common liver disease, with an estimated global prevalence of up to 7.5% and growing concern regarding hepatic and extrahepatic complications even in early life. In this paper, we review recent advances in epidemiology, genetics, early-life risk factors, natural history and comorbidities, focusing on emerging data published in the last 3 years. We also outline a practical approach to the management of MASLD in children, integrating newly developed non-invasive tests. Lastly, we highlight key research questions to be studied in the coming years.},
}

Humans
Child
Adolescent
*Fatty Liver/epidemiology/therapy/diagnosis/etiology
Risk Factors
Prevalence
COVID-19/complications
Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

@article {pmid42085825,
year = {2026},
author = {Ambade, PN and Zimmerman, C and Haddad, C and Koperski, C and Rashid, G and Kafri, A and Yazdani, F and Renirie, RH and Pruitt, D and MacKinnon, NJ},
title = {Updating knowledge on existing approaches on advanced care planning interventions: An umbrella review.},
journal = {Archives of gerontology and geriatrics},
volume = {148},
number = {},
pages = {106255},
doi = {10.1016/j.archger.2026.106255},
pmid = {42085825},
issn = {1872-6976},
mesh = {Humans ; *Advance Care Planning/organization & administration ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Terminal Care ; Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {CONTEXT: Advanced care planning (ACP) can reduce hospitalizations, increase quality of life, and align treatment with patient wishes, while lowering healthcare costs. However, healthcare providers' discomfort, lack of training, and patient anxiety may hinder ACP. Furthermore, disparities exist among minority and low-income groups. Growing research highlights the need for standardized definitions and broader implementation, especially post-COVID-19, incorporating digital tools, economic impacts, ethics, and family roles to improve ACP worldwide.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to update and synthesize knowledge from all published systematic reviews from the past ten years, focusing on ACP-related interventions.

METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive search across PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus, including only English-language, peer-reviewed systematic reviews published between 2015 and 2025. We employed rigorous screening, dual-reviewer validation, and quality-assessment tools, and synthesized evidence on intervention effectiveness across diverse populations and settings to identify effective ACP strategies.

RESULTS: Of the deduplicated 7513 records, 61 reviews met the inclusion criteria. For older adult patients, structured conversations reduce unnecessary aggressive treatments and align end-of-life care with preferences. Among racial groups, peer support and palliative consultations boost ACP completion. Patient-centric interventions include video decision aids and web tools, whereas provider-centric interventions include conversation guides, reminder systems, electronic coordination platforms, and facilitator training.

CONCLUSION: ACP is an ongoing process tailored to patient preferences, requiring efforts to address stigmatized conversations, especially in minority communities and severe illnesses. Emphasis on research into digital tools, policy incentives, infrastructure, and family support is essential. Bridging research and practice will improve outcomes and patient-centered end-of-life care.

KEY MESSAGE: This article describes an umbrella review of 61 systematic reviews on advanced care planning-related interventions. The analysis indicates that the reviews covered interventions focusing on both facility and community-based individuals and had a specific population or disease focus. The articles covered both patient and provider-centric interventions.},
}

Humans
*Advance Care Planning/organization & administration
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Terminal Care
Aged
SARS-CoV-2
Quality of Life

@article {pmid42140729,
year = {2026},
author = {El Kardoudi, A and Ouzir, M and Chetoui, A and Kaoutar, K and Ghandour, EK and Chigr, F},
title = {[Mental health symptoms during the Covid-19 pandemic and hypertension in Morocco].},
journal = {Soins; la revue de reference infirmiere},
volume = {71},
number = {905},
pages = {10-17},
doi = {10.1016/j.soin.2026.03.002},
pmid = {42140729},
issn = {0038-0814},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology ; Morocco/epidemiology ; *Hypertension/psychology/epidemiology ; Male ; Female ; Anxiety/epidemiology/etiology ; Middle Aged ; Stress, Psychological/epidemiology ; Depression/epidemiology/etiology ; Adult ; Mental Health ; Pandemics ; Aged ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The Covid-19 pandemic has had well-established effects on mental health. However, few studies have examined its specific impact on people with hypertension. To address this gap, a study was conducted in the Beni Mellal province, Morocco, to assess the psychological repercussions of Covid-19 in hypertensive patients compared to normotensive controls. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress were measured using the DASS-21 scale.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/psychology/epidemiology
Morocco/epidemiology
*Hypertension/psychology/epidemiology
Male
Female
Anxiety/epidemiology/etiology
Middle Aged
Stress, Psychological/epidemiology
Depression/epidemiology/etiology
Adult
Mental Health
Pandemics
Aged
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42141948,
year = {2026},
author = {Lamikanra, OK and Venigalla, M and Olowofeso, AM and Aneni, EC and Osondu, CU and Otite, FO},
title = {COVID-19 and the ICU: Redesigning Critical Care Services for a New Era.},
journal = {Journal of intensive care medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {8850666261451793},
doi = {10.1177/08850666261451793},
pmid = {42141948},
issn = {1525-1489},
abstract = {BackgroundCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, was first identified in late 2019 and went on to profoundly disrupt health care systems worldwide. The pandemic led to unprecedented increases in healthcare delivery costs, widespread disruption in medical supply chains, workforce instability, and a loss of typical inpatient caregiver support. These challenges affected all levels of care, from primary health services to highly specialized intensive care units (ICUs). Before vaccines were available, ICUs were overwhelmed by critically ill patients requiring mechanical ventilation, saturating capacity and straining staff.ObjectivesThis article seeks to examine the effect that COVID-19 had on ICUs globally, acknowledging its impact with an aim to identify solutions that can be used to help mitigate the overburdening of this limited resource in future pandemics.MethodsA narrative review approach was used, drawing on published literature, observational data, and institutional responses from 2020 to 2025, to analyze structural, operational, and clinical adjustments in ICU design and function.ResultsKey adaptations included physical redesigns, rapid infection-control upgrades, the use of negative pressure rooms, expansion of tele-ICU systems, and virtual family engagement strategies. These interventions were implemented to address ICU crowding, equipment shortages, and staff burnout, and helped to maintain continuity of care during surge conditions.ConclusionsThe COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the need for ICUs to be more agile, scalable, and future-facing. Lessons learned highlight the importance of preparedness strategies that strengthen ICU resilience and support critical care delivery in future public health emergencies.},
}

@article {pmid42142180,
year = {2026},
author = {Mapindra, MP and Mahindra, MP and McNamara, P and Kartasasmita, C and Semple, MG and Clark, H and Madsen, J},
title = {Prevalence of common respiratory viruses of infants with respiratory tract infections in European countries in the past decade: a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing between the pre-COVID-19, pandemic, and post-COVID-19 periods.},
journal = {European journal of pediatrics},
volume = {185},
number = {6},
pages = {},
pmid = {42142180},
issn = {1432-1076},
mesh = {Humans ; Europe/epidemiology ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; Infant ; Prevalence ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Infant, Newborn ; },
abstract = {UNLABELLED: The purpose of this study is. to determine the leading cause of respiratory tract infections over the decade; this review examined the proportions of airway viruses in infants with respiratory tract infections in Europe before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The protocol for this systematic review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42024497097). Literature searches in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science (WoS) identified 20,453 studies reporting respiratory viral testing in Europe over the past decade (2012/13-2022/23). Eligible studies were English-language full-text or grey articles with low risk of bias and complete data, and reports that explicitly provided the number of positive airway virus cases (n, virus) and the total infant population (N). Risk of bias was assessed using the Hoy et al. scoring system. Pooled prevalence estimates (pooled proportion [95% CI]) were calculated for pre-, during-, and post-COVID-19 periods using proportional meta-analysis with the MetaProp package in R. Fifty studies before, ten studies during, and 18 studies after the COVID-19 pandemic were eligible for proportional meta-analyses of viral testing in infants. Before the pandemic, the predominant viruses in infants with respiratory infections were Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) (0.48 [0.41-0.56]), Human rhinovirus (HRV) (0.24 [0.18-0.29]), and Influenza virus (IV) (0.08 [0.04-0.12]). Post-pandemic, the leading viruses were RSV (0.63 [0.51-0.75]), HRV (0.25 [0.11-0.40]), and IV (0.10 [0.00-0.20]) again.

CONCLUSIONS:  RSV and HRV remained the two most identified viruses in infants with respiratory infections, pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, both RSV and IV were suppressed during the pandemic. The trajectory dynamics of respiratory viruses were divergent, with resilient viruses (RSV, HRV, and IV) regaining dominance more rapidly than persistently suppressed viruses.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • The COVID-19 pandemic induced an infection precautions policy, which reduced the spread of respiratory infectious diseases. • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) was estimated as one of the most common causes of respiratory infections in infants. Still, there are no reports summarising the geographical distributions of the various viral agents of infant respiratory diseases.

WHAT IS NEW: • This meta-analysis shows that the prevalence of RSV and HRV infections in infants remains high in Europe following the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated precautionary policy. Furthermore, RSV proportionally experienced a marked reduction during COVID-19 pandemic (lockdown periods). However, the immunological debt may have led to a re-emergence in RSV positivity after the lockdown periods. • Our proportional meta-analysis indicates the heterogeneous post-pandemic recovery patterns of each respiratory virus commonly identified in infants, where HRV was shown to be resilient whilst RSV was rapidly rebound.},
}

Humans
Europe/epidemiology
*Respiratory Tract Infections/virology/epidemiology
*COVID-19/epidemiology
Infant
Prevalence
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2
Infant, Newborn

@article {pmid42142525,
year = {2026},
author = {Trang, TPH and Bazelier, MT and Klungel, OH and Bots, SH},
title = {Quality and methodological heterogeneity of COVID-19 vaccine safety studies focusing on the myocarditis safety signal: A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression.},
journal = {Vaccine},
volume = {85},
number = {},
pages = {128722},
doi = {10.1016/j.vaccine.2026.128722},
pmid = {42142525},
issn = {1873-2518},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The risk of myocarditis following COVID-19 vaccines has been widely investigated, yielding highly variable effect estimates. It remains unclear how much of this variation can be explained by methodological differences and study quality. This study aimed to evaluate the methodology of observational studies on myocarditis risk post-COVID-19 vaccination and identify sources of heterogeneity.

METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed and EMBASE for observational studies reporting relative risks of myocarditis after COVID-19 vaccination published between December 2020 and October 2023. Risk of Bias (RoB) was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Meta-analysis and multivariable meta-regression were conducted for studies addressing comparable population-intervention-comparator-outcome (PICO) questions.

RESULTS: We included 30 studies, comprising 35 design-specific analyses. We identified considerable variability in design elements including risk window length (7-288 days), reference period timing (three different ways), and control for COVID-19 disease (five different approaches). Thirteen (37%) design-specific analyses had serious or critical overall RoB. We observed strongest heterogeneity between studies in general population for dose 2 of BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273 compared to unvaccinated individuals/reference period (I[2] = 96%, prediction interval (PI) of relative risk 0.40-20.20; I[2] = 92%, PI 1.23-88.63, respectively). Meta-regression for the former PICO indicated that after adjusting for age and sex, effect estimates of samples with 28-day risk window were 0.56 times (95% CI 0.43-0.72) lower than those with 7-day risk window, but its overall effect was not significant. The effect of study design, outcome definition, approaches to handle COVID-19 infection and overall RoB were not significant in the meta-regression.

CONCLUSIONS: There is substantial variation in study design specifications and corresponding heterogeneity in reported effect estimates. Design choices like risk window length may explain some of this heterogeneity, although evidence remains inconclusive. Future vaccine safety studies should include sensitivity analyses to explore the effect of design choices on their findings.},
}

@article {pmid42143870,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, B and Cheah, KSL and Beh, WF},
title = {Fostering collaborative creativity and ensemble skills through virtual ensembles in hybrid music education: A systematic literature review.},
journal = {Acta psychologica},
volume = {267},
number = {},
pages = {107060},
doi = {10.1016/j.actpsy.2026.107060},
pmid = {42143870},
issn = {1873-6297},
abstract = {The sudden change of music education to a hybrid form during the COVID-19 pandemic has made virtual ensembles the primary way of learning together. The authors aim through this review to understand how much digital platforms such as JackTrip, Jamulus, Zoom, and Soundtrap have affected the student engagement in musical ensemble practice. The paper emphasizes virtually choreographed concerts not only as a method for being able to continue training when difficulties arise but also to develop creative cooperation, self-management, and more advanced group playing skills. Seventeen peer-reviewed articles from 2020 to 2025 show that low latency platforms such as JackTrip and Jamulus are instrumental in facilitating musical engagement in real-time. Along with this, by using constructivist pedagogical methods like project-based learning, flipped classrooms, and DIY/DIWO, students become relentlessly more creative with music. Tools like Soundtrap help students create ideas asynchronously, while real-time platforms support timing and listening skills. However, there are still problems besides these advantages. Latency, audio compression, the difference in the equipment, and complicated user interfaces make it difficult for everyone to participate equally and for the group to stay together. The review points out that the success of virtual ensemble learning depends on instruction supported by well-aligned technology, which means planning, scaffolding, and technical support as well as flexible roles. This study provides a framework for educators, curriculum developers, and institutions seeking to improve hybrid music education. The right technology with inclusive, reflective teaching, virtual ensembles can become great ways to work together creatively and perform well.},
}

@article {pmid42144508,
year = {2026},
author = {Malhotra, D and Nepal, RM and Zografaki, I and Kyaw, MH and Nikolopoulou, P and de Almeida, RS and Lopez, SMC and Wiblin, S and Williams, F and Pope, S and Whittle, I and Pearson, F and Curcio, D},
title = {Severity of COVID-19 Omicron Variants: A Global Systematic Review.},
journal = {Infectious diseases and therapy},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42144508},
issn = {2193-8229},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The continual emergence of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants drives the need to update evidence on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity and disease burden, and better understand the impact on prevention, treatment, and healthcare systems.

METHODS: This systematic review aimed to determine relative disease severity, through comparative measures of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission and mortality, between SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern emerging since Omicron was first identified. A protocol was registered a priori (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024619193). Systematic searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were conducted in November 2024 and supplemented by conference searches from 2022-2024. Population, Exposure, Comparisons, Outcomes (PECO) criteria were used to screen publications for inclusion. Critical appraisal tools published in the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Handbook for Evidence Synthesis were used to assess the risk of bias of the primary studies included. The outcomes associated with Omicron variants, identified by sequencing or predominance periods, included hospitalization, admission to intensive care, death, and various composite endpoints.

RESULTS: Thirty-two studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria, most reported on relative disease severity for early Omicron BA.5 (n = 23) and XBB (n = 24) variants. Overall, COVID-19 severity appeared largely comparable across the various Omicron subvariants. Among the subset of studies that directly compared various severity outcomes to earlier SARS-CoV-2 variants (n = 7), some reported modest increases or decreases in severity. However, these differences were generally not statistically significant. Five studies stratifying outcomes by the presence of comorbid conditions noted that comorbidities were predictors of significantly worse COVID-19 disease outcomes (p = 0.000-0.027).

CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this systematic review found the severity of COVID-19 disease to be comparable among Omicron subvariants. As SARS-CoV-2 subvariants continue to emerge, these results highlight the continuing need for vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 infection alongside early antiviral intervention to support short-term management and long-term reduction of COVID-19-associated morbidity and mortality.},
}

@article {pmid42135711,
year = {2026},
author = {Wang, M and Liu, H and Zhu, W and Li, Z and Li, C and Jin, L},
title = {Factors affecting loneliness in pregnant women: A scoping review.},
journal = {BMC pregnancy and childbirth},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12884-026-09061-w},
pmid = {42135711},
issn = {1471-2393},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Loneliness during pregnancy is a critical yet overlooked determinant of maternal health, distinct from postpartum depression. While the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted this vulnerability, the mechanisms and typologies of prenatal loneliness remain under-researched.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Seven databases were searched up to March 15, 2025. Influencing factors were first screened according to the Social-Ecological Model (SEM) framework, followed by thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Twenty-three studies were included. Alongside emotional and social loneliness, a context-specific form tied to role transition during matrescence was identified ('transitional loneliness'). The reported prevalence of loneliness varied substantially, ranging from 26.26% to 55.40%. This wide variation likely reflects methodological heterogeneity (e.g., sampling and assessment tools) and population characteristics. Determinants were categorized into individual, interpersonal, community, and societal levels.

CONCLUSIONS: Current generic instruments fail to capture the unique transitional nature of prenatal loneliness. Addressing this issue requires developing pregnancy-specific assessment tools and implementing multi-level interventions targeting multi-level socio-ecological factors.},
}

@article {pmid42135872,
year = {2025},
author = {Mäki, K and Llewellyn-Zaidi, A and St Louis, D and Ralsky, M and O'Neill, DG and Hedhammar, Å and Packer, RMA and Ekenstedt, KJ and Bell, JS and Murphy, B and Seath, IJ and Courtin, A and Montonen, M and Nygård, A and Reunanen, V},
title = {Moving from information and collaboration to action: report from the 5th International Dog Health Workshop in Helsinki, June 2024.},
journal = {Companion animal health and genetics},
volume = {12},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42135872},
issn = {3059-3255},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: The International Partnership for Dogs, together with a rotating national host organisation, holds approximately biennial meetings called the International Dog Health Workshop (IDHW). These workshops bring together a broad range of stakeholders in dog health and welfare, including scientists and veterinary practitioners, to improve the international sharing of information and resources, to provide a forum for ongoing collaboration, and to identify and agree on specific needs and actions to improve canine health and welfare.

WORKSHOP PRESENTATION: 5th International Dog Health Workshop was hosted by the Finnish Kennel Club in Helsinki, Finland, in June 2024. The workshop was structured around four key issues facing those working to improve dog health: 'Supply and Demand', 'Breeding for Health and Well-Being', 'Big Data', and 'Does the Colour Matter? Defining Breed vs. Variety'. The workshop provided an opportunity for participants to meet face-to-face after a five-year hiatus due to COVID-19, on the 10[th] anniversary of the International Partnership for Dogs. Among the 106 decision-makers from 16 countries who attended the workshop, there was broad agreement on several issues during the discussions, such as following the scientific evidence on canine genetics and health, moving away from extreme conformation, and using all available tools, including crossbreeding, to maintain and increase genetic variation within dog breeds. It was agreed that these principles should become priorities for welfare-minded organisations at the national and international levels. Better education of puppy buyers, breeders, show judges, and other relevant parties was recurringly identified as a priority across all four themes of the workshop.

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, key agreements from the 5th IDHW were that organisations must comply fully with relevant national animal welfare legislation, that organisations must work to eliminate extreme conformations from all dogs and to improve and maintain genetic diversity within subpopulations of dogs, and that organisations should recognise and support crossbreeding as an accepted and valuable tool for modern dog breeding.},
}

@article {pmid42138647,
year = {2026},
author = {Bu, GL and Chen, LN and Wu, PH and Zeng, MS and Zhong, Q},
title = {Preventing Both EBV Infection and EBV-Associated Diseases: Advances in Vaccine Research.},
journal = {Journal of medical virology},
volume = {98},
number = {5},
pages = {e70961},
doi = {10.1002/jmv.70961},
pmid = {42138647},
issn = {1096-9071},
support = {U24A20743//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 32441094//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82030046//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 82572641//National Natural Science Foundation of China/ ; 2022YFC3400900//National Key Research and Development Program of China/ ; 2023ZD0501000//Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project/ ; 2025M781430//China Postdoctoral Science Foundation/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/prevention & control/immunology ; *Herpesvirus 4, Human/immunology ; *Viral Vaccines/immunology ; *Herpesvirus Vaccines/immunology ; Vaccine Development ; },
abstract = {Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), the first identified human oncovirus, is associated with a variety of human malignancies. It is estimated that more than 90% of the adults worldwide are infected with EBV. In 2020, EBV-attributable cancers accounted for approximately 1.3%-1.9% of the global cancer burden. Currently, no licensed vaccine against EBV is available for clinical use. The success of COVID-19 vaccines has provided a framework and momentum for novel efforts against EBV, accelerating vaccine research and yielding several promising candidates, some of which have entered clinical trials. These advances are expected to contribute substantially to preventing EBV infection and managing EBV-associated diseases. In this review, we assess the current landscape and recent advances in EBV vaccine research, summarizing progress across different vaccine platforms. This overview intends to provide a theoretical foundation for the future development and translational application of EBV vaccines.},
}

Humans
*Epstein-Barr Virus Infections/prevention & control/immunology
*Herpesvirus 4, Human/immunology
*Viral Vaccines/immunology
*Herpesvirus Vaccines/immunology
Vaccine Development

@article {pmid42138851,
year = {2026},
author = {Silva, AS and Dornelas, R and Silva, JRLE},
title = {COVID-19-related voice disorders: a scoping review.},
journal = {CoDAS},
volume = {38},
number = {3},
pages = {e20250243},
doi = {10.1590/2317-1782/e20250243pt},
pmid = {42138851},
issn = {2317-1782},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications ; *Voice Disorders/virology/etiology/physiopathology ; Adult ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {PURPOSE: To map the available evidence on voice changes in non-intubated adults diagnosed with mild to moderate COVID-19.

RESEARCH STRATEGIES: Scoping review conducted according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, including studies published between 2019 and 2025. Systematic searches were performed in the MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, LILACS, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases and in grey literature sources (Google Scholar, MedRxiv, and ProQuest). Controlled descriptors and free terms related to COVID-19 and voice disorders were combined using Boolean operators.

SELECTION CRITERIA: The review included studies with adults (18-65 years) with a confirmed diagnosis of mild to moderate COVID-19 and excluded studies with individuals undergoing endotracheal intubation and with a previous history of voice disorders or respiratory comorbidities. The selection was performed by two independent reviewers.

DATA ANALYSIS: The data were extracted and analyzed descriptively and quantitatively, considering study characteristics, vocal assessment methods, and main outcomes.

RESULTS: Of the 35,497 records identified, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most frequent voice disorders were dysphonia, hoarseness, reduction in maximum phonation time, and changes in acoustic measures such as jitter, shimmer, and harmonic-to-noise ratio. Associated symptoms included vocal fatigue, cough, dyspnea, and laryngeal discomfort, as well as a negative impact on voice-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION: Mild to moderate COVID-19 can lead to clinically relevant vocal impairments, reinforcing the need for speech-language-hearing follow-up and research to support vocal assessment and rehabilitation protocols in the post-infection period.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications
*Voice Disorders/virology/etiology/physiopathology
Adult
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42139648,
year = {2026},
author = {Meza, N and Lizana, FJ and Velásquez, M and Hormazábal, J and Morgado, B and Osses-González, PI and Silva, CE and Villalobos, SV and Bachelet, VC},
title = {Quality of reporting of systematic reviews with meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy of rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 according to PRISMA-DTA: A meta-epidemiological survey.},
journal = {Medwave},
volume = {26},
number = {4},
pages = {e3219},
doi = {10.5867/medwave.2026.04.3219},
pmid = {42139648},
issn = {0717-6384},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology ; Sensitivity and Specificity ; *Systematic Reviews as Topic/standards ; Meta-Analysis as Topic ; *SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification ; *COVID-19 Serological Testing/methods ; Guidelines as Topic ; Research Design/standards ; },
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Systematic reviews are crucial for informing health decisions and supporting evidence-based policymaking. Reporting guidelines aim to reduce ambiguity and confusion while promoting clarity, completeness, and transparency in reporting. Our study aimed to assess the completeness of reporting of diagnostic test accuracy systematic reviews with meta-analysis on rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2 deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic using the PRISMA-DTA guideline.

METHODS: We conducted a meta-epidemiological survey of systematic reviews with meta-analysis of rapid antigen tests for SARS-CoV-2. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, L·OVE Covid-19, and Web of Science Clarivate, covering the period from inception to April 3, 2025, with no language restrictions. We included reviews that used explicit systematic review methodologies with summary estimates of test sensitivity and specificity. We assessed compliance with the 27 PRISMA-DTA items.

RESULTS: After screening 5252 publications, we included 38 reviews. We found no PRISMA-DTA item with a low reporting frequency. Regarding the number of items reported, 23 (60%) of the included studies reported over 66%, and 15 (40%) reported between 33% and 66%, with none reporting fewer than 33%. None of the included reviews complied with the full PRISMA-DTA checklist.

CONCLUSIONS: Our meta-epidemiological survey reveals persistent shortcomings in the reporting quality of systematic reviews evaluating rapid antigen test accuracy for SARS-CoV-2. While some items were consistently addressed, numerous critical domains requiring a deeper understanding of the specific diagnostic test accuracy assessment methods showed low reporting adherence.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/diagnosis/epidemiology
Sensitivity and Specificity
*Systematic Reviews as Topic/standards
Meta-Analysis as Topic
*SARS-CoV-2/isolation & purification
*COVID-19 Serological Testing/methods
Guidelines as Topic
Research Design/standards

@article {pmid42140392,
year = {2026},
author = {Streiber, M and Schubert, US and Traeger, A},
title = {Innovative lipid nanoparticle formulations: Bridging the gap toward decentralized personalized gene therapies.},
journal = {Journal of controlled release : official journal of the Controlled Release Society},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {115023},
doi = {10.1016/j.jconrel.2026.115023},
pmid = {42140392},
issn = {1873-4995},
abstract = {Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have become a key technology for delivering nucleic acids, playing a critical role in the success of mRNA vaccines and RNA-based therapeutics. Established manufacturing methods, including microfluidic mixing and impingement jet mixing, have exhibited excellent scalability, reproducibility, and clinical relevance, most notably during the development of vaccines for SARS-CoV-2. Nevertheless, these techniques are accompanied by challenges related to the handling of organic solvents (ethanol), scalability for personalized medicine, and environmental considerations. This review draws attention to recent innovations in LNP formulation that seek to address these challenges through alternative and complementary approaches. One central focus of this review highlights post-formation encapsulation strategies, utilizing preformed vesicles or other nanostructures. These strategies facilitate modular, on-demand loading of nucleic acids. In addition, organic solvent-free techniques, including thermocycling, calcium-mediated DNA encapsulation, and aqueous sonication, offer new opportunities for biocompatible, streamlined manufacturing. In line with these formulation strategies, the review discusses recent progress in continuous manufacturing platforms, which enable end-to-end process control, real-time analytics, and increased production efficiency. By comparing conventional and emerging techniques, this review provides an overview of the evolving LNP formulation landscape and identifies key opportunities for integrating innovation into conventional production pipelines.},
}

@article {pmid42140539,
year = {2026},
author = {Tamariz, L and Shehadeh, LA and Bast, E and Klimas, N and Palacio, A},
title = {The role of the endothelium in long COVID.},
journal = {Vascular pharmacology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {107654},
doi = {10.1016/j.vph.2026.107654},
pmid = {42140539},
issn = {1879-3649},
abstract = {SARS-CoV2 infection significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular events through multiple interconnected mechanisms including systemic inflammation, dysautonomia, endothelial dysfunction, and prothrombotic states. The endothelium plays a critical role in this increase in risk together with dysautonomia and mast cell activation. SARS-CoV2 activates endothelial cells creating a pro-inflammatory, and pro-thrombotic phenotype. This phenotype could lead to microcirculatory changes that decrease oxygen delivery to tissues because of loss of laminar flow, lack of nitric oxide dependent vasodilation, increased viscosity and abnormal constriction of vascular smooth muscle cells due to neuropathy. There are several ways of identifying patients with endothelial dysfunction and the most used is flow mediated dilation. Many randomized trials have already found significant treatments for endothelial dysfunction and include antihypertensives, statins, beta-blockers, supplements and lifestyle interventions. Only two studies using vitamin C and L-arginine demonstrated improvements in flow mediated dilation in patients with long COVID.},
}

@article {pmid41918096,
year = {2026},
author = {Çeleğen, İ and Sarıöz, A},
title = {Exposure to health misinformation on social media across key health domains: a systematic review and meta-analysis of survey-based studies.},
journal = {BMC public health},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41918096},
issn = {1471-2458},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Exposure to health misinformation on social media has emerged as a significant public health concern; however, survey-based evidence remains conceptually heterogeneous across health domains and outcome definitions. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized individual-level observational studies examining direct exposure to health misinformation across key domains, including COVID-19, vaccination, cancer, and oral health.

METHODS: Following PRISMA 2020 and MOOSE guidelines, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched (2010–2025). Eligible studies were observational and survey-based, reporting prevalence or determinants of individual-level exposure to health misinformation encountered on social media. Exposure was operationalized as (i) perceived exposure (self-reported encountering of misinformation) or (ii) item-level encounter/recognition of predefined misinformation claims framed as prior exposure. Constructs reflecting belief, attitudinal agreement, susceptibility, or behavioral responses were excluded from prevalence pooling to prevent conceptual conflation. Interventional or experimental correction studies were excluded to preserve comparability with naturalistic observational exposure measures. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted in R (meta/metafor), with heterogeneity quantified using I². Subgroup analyses were conducted by health domain, geographic region, and platform context.

RESULTS: Eight studies (N = 22,780) met inclusion criteria. Reported prevalence estimates varied substantially (10%–87%) across domains and exposure operationalizations. The pooled prevalence was 59.0% (95% CI: 44.0–73.0); however, heterogeneity was extreme (I² = 99.8%). Accordingly, the pooled estimate is interpreted as a descriptive contextual summary rather than a generalizable population parameter. Subgroup analyses suggested domain-dependent patterns, with comparatively higher reported exposure in COVID-19 and oral health contexts and lower levels in cancer-related contexts. Across studies, younger age, lower health or digital literacy, and minority ethnicity were recurrently associated with higher reported exposure. Platform-related associations were context-dependent and varied by outcome construct and health domain, indicating that platform effects operate as environmental modifiers rather than intrinsic determinants.

CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to health misinformation on social media appears common but highly variable across health domains, operational definitions, and platform environments. Given extreme between-study heterogeneity, reliance on cross-sectional self-reported measures, and variability in exposure operationalization, findings should be interpreted as contextual rather than universally generalizable. The most informative insights derive from domain- and context-specific patterns, which may inform targeted and evidence-sensitive public health strategies.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-026-27242-2.},
}

@article {pmid41933426,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, Y and He, X and Hu, Y and Su, R and Liu, X and Jin, D and Ding, L and Chen, Y},
title = {Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of Clostridioides difficile infection based on hospital surveillance data: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {Antimicrobial resistance and infection control},
volume = {15},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {41933426},
issn = {2047-2994},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/epidemiology ; *Clostridium Infections/epidemiology ; Incidence ; *Clostridioides difficile ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Cross Infection/epidemiology ; Infection Control ; Pandemics ; Hospitals/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) remains a substantial burden on healthcare systems worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has had profound and multifaceted effects on healthcare delivery and infection control practices, potentially influencing the epidemiology of CDI.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has influenced the incidence of CDI and to explore potential contributing factors.

METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Seven databases were searched for relevant literature published from December 2019 to October 2025. Study quality was assessed via the Newcastle‒Ottawa Scale (NOS) and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools. Random- or fixed-effects models were selected according to heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated via funnel plots and Egger's test, and sensitivity analyses were conducted. The primary outcome was the incidence rate of CDI, expressed as cases per 10,000 patient-days. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) were calculated to compare the incidence of CDI between the prepandemic and pandemic periods.

RESULTS: Sixteen studies were included. The pooled CDI incidence rate was 4.42 (95% CI: 3.37-5.46) per 10,000 patient-days in the prepandemic period and 3.80 (95% CI: 2.63-4.96) per 10,000 patient-days during the pandemic. The pooled incidence rate ratio was 0.80 (95% CI: 0.67-0.97), indicating a significant reduction in the incidence of CDI. This decline was associated with changes in medical practices (e.g., the suspension of nonurgent and high-risk procedures), antimicrobial stewardship practices, and strengthened infection control measures (e.g., enhanced hand hygiene and environmental disinfection) during the pandemic.

CONCLUSION: Compared with the prepandemic period, the incidence of CDI decreased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding suggests that strengthened infection prevention measures, improved antimicrobial stewardship, and adaptations in healthcare delivery may have contributed to reduced CDI transmission. Reinforcing these evidence-based foundational strategies may help mitigate ‌the risk of CDI and other healthcare-associated infections during future public health emergencies.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/epidemiology
*Clostridium Infections/epidemiology
Incidence
*Clostridioides difficile
SARS-CoV-2
*Cross Infection/epidemiology
Infection Control
Pandemics
Hospitals/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42129712,
year = {2026},
author = {Mahmoudi, S and Mohammadpour, M and Olfat, M},
title = {Remdesivir for the treatment of children hospitalized with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC pulmonary medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s12890-026-04231-0},
pmid = {42129712},
issn = {1471-2466},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Remdesivir (RDV) is an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of COVID-19 in children weighing at least 3.5 kg. While its safety and efficacy are well established in adults, data in pediatric populations remain limited and are largely extrapolated from adult studies. Therefore, we aimed to assess the clinical outcomes and safety of RDV in pediatric patients.

METHODS: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies evaluating RDV in hospitalized children under 18 years with COVID-19. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and the level of respiratory support (baseline and highest). The secondary outcome was the safety profile of RDV identified by adverse events and treatment discontinuation. Meta-analysis was performed only on patients who received RDV.

RESULTS: From 1298 records, 16 studies were included. A total of 722 patients who received remdesivir were included in this study. Pooled analysis at admission showed that 28% of patients required no oxygen, 23% needed low-flow oxygen, 21% needed high-flow oxygen, 11% required non-invasive ventilation (NIV), and 9% were treated with mechanical ventilation (MV). During hospitalization, the highest respiratory support required was no oxygen in 27%, low-flow oxygen in 33%, high-flow oxygen in 32%, NIV in 5%, and MV in 19%. Overall mortality was 2% (95% CI: 0.00, 0.04, I[2] = 59.81%, p < 0.001). The most frequent RDV-related adverse events were elevated ALT in 11% (95% CI: 0.00, 0.42, I[2] = 94.02%, p < 0.001), increased AST in 10% (95% CI: 0.00, 0.41, I[2] = 94.56%, p = < 0.001), unspecified liver enzymes elevation in 8% (95% CI: 0.01, 0.20, I[2] = 81.84%, p < 0.001), and hypertension in 10% (95% CI: 0.00, 0.58, I[2] = 97.16%, p < 0.001). Bradycardia (3%) and increased creatinine (2%) were also reported. Almost all studies reported no drug-related serious adverse events.

CONCLUSION: This meta-analysis suggests that RDV has an acceptable safety profile in pediatric patients with COVID-19. The most commonly reported adverse events were elevated hepatic enzymes and hypertension, with occasional reports of bradycardia and increased creatinine. The pooled results should be interpreted with caution due to study heterogeneity and possible publication bias.},
}

@article {pmid42131658,
year = {2026},
author = {Joy, P and Kunthavai, R and Sahu, S and Routray, S},
title = {COVID-19 and Congenital Cleft Lip and Palate: A Systematic Review Focusing on Nonsyndromic Neonatal Outcomes.},
journal = {Cureus},
volume = {18},
number = {4},
pages = {e106878},
pmid = {42131658},
issn = {2168-8184},
abstract = {Craniofacial anomalies (CFAs), such as cleft lip and palate, are among the most frequent birth defects, often necessitating multidisciplinary care. The COVID-19 pandemic raised concerns that maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and associated factors, such as fever, inflammation, and psychosocial stress, might elevate teratogenic risk. This systematic review aims to synthesize the evidence on the association between maternal COVID-19 exposure and nonsyndromic CFAs in neonates. We conducted a systematic review in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Major electronic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and the WHO COVID-19 Database) were searched from their inception until February 2025. We included studies examining the association between documented maternal COVID-19 infection (before or during pregnancy) and the incidence, type, or severity of CFAs, with a focus on nonsyndromic orofacial clefts (NSOFC). Risk of bias of the studies was assessed using the ROBINS-I tool. Findings were synthesized narratively, and bibliometric analyses, including geo-mapping and conceptual structure mapping, were performed. Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. The evidence was mixed: smaller regional studies suggested a possible link, particularly with first-trimester infection, which aligns with the critical timing of craniofacial development. However, large-scale, robust epidemiological and registry-based studies from the USA and Nordic countries consistently found no significant association between maternal COVID-19 infection and congenital anomalies. A meta-analysis could not be performed due to study heterogeneity. Maternal stress and fear of COVID-19 were repeatedly highlighted as potential factors, in some cases showing stronger or even paradoxical associations than the infection itself. Research activity was concentrated primarily in Saudi Arabia and the United States. Robust population-level evidence does not currently support a direct, major causal link between maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and NSOFC. While a modest or context-specific association cannot be entirely excluded, the effects of maternal psychosocial stressors and restricted healthcare access during the pandemic appear to be important explanatory factors that warrant further investigation, independent of the viral infection itself.},
}

@article {pmid42132825,
year = {2026},
author = {Wong, LP and Megat Hashim, MAA and Huang, Z and Zhao, Q and Lee, HY},
title = {Navigating acceptance: challenges and barriers to nipah virus vaccine uptake in Malaysia's muslim-majority context.},
journal = {Expert review of vaccines},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {2674683},
doi = {10.1080/14760584.2026.2674683},
pmid = {42132825},
issn = {1744-8395},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The development of Nipah virus (NiV) vaccine offers a vital opportunity for pandemic preparedness in Southeast Asia, especially in Malaysia, where the first outbreak occurred. However, vaccine acceptance must be understood within diverse cultural, religious, and social contexts.

AREAS COVERED: This review explores key challenges and barriers to NiV vaccine uptake among Malaysia's Muslim-majority population, drawing insights from past rollouts such as COVID-19 and HPV vaccines. Key issues include religious concerns, misinformation, historical hesitancy, lack of trust in health authorities, and gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions, which collectively hinder vaccine acceptance and uptake. The paper also highlights enablers namely religious endorsements, transparent communication, and culturally sensitive engagement with trusted healthcare and community leaders. Evidence-based strategies, like motivational interviewing, narrative communication, and tailored outreach, are discussed. Finally, the 7C model is introduced as a structured framework to address behavioral and psychological barriers to vaccination.

EXPERT OPINION: Research gaps remain in understanding local psychological drivers, religious governance dynamics, and misinformation patterns. Future efforts should prioritize nationwide KAP studies, validation of behavioral frameworks such as the 7C model, and interventional research on culturally tailored communication. Integrating early halal certification and coordinated religious engagement will be essential for effective and equitable uptake.},
}

@article {pmid42133579,
year = {2026},
author = {Lai, X and Gao, Q and Wu, L},
title = {A 56-Year-Old Male Farmer From China With Severe Fever With Thrombocytopenia Syndrome and Pulmonary Aspergillosis: A Case Report and Review of Literature.},
journal = {The American journal of case reports},
volume = {27},
number = {},
pages = {e951798},
doi = {10.12659/AJCR.951798},
pmid = {42133579},
issn = {1941-5923},
mesh = {Humans ; Male ; Middle Aged ; *Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome/diagnosis/complications ; China ; *Pulmonary Aspergillosis/diagnosis/complications ; Farmers ; COVID-19 ; Coinfection ; Aspergillus fumigatus/isolation & purification ; Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging tick-borne infectious disease caused by the Dabie bandavirus (commonly known as SFTS virus, or SFTSV). SFTSV-induced immunosuppression during infection renders patients highly susceptible to invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. SFTS-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (SAPA) presents major therapeutic challenges and is linked to drastically worsened outcomes, including high mortality. This report aims to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of SAPA and emphasize the value of early diagnosis using metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS). CASE REPORT We report a case of a previously healthy 56-year-old male farmer admitted with SFTS. On hospital day 3, when only mild cough had begun, mNGS of both blood and sputum concurrently detected Aspergillus fumigatus alongside SFTSV. This very early, pre-radiographic diagnosis prompted immediate targeted therapy with voriconazole and favipiravir. Despite this, imaging showed progressive pulmonary infiltrates with cavitation. The clinical course was further complicated by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 co-infection, but the patient recovered with intensive care and was discharged on day 24. A review of 13 literature-reported SAPA cases revealed a mortality rate of 30.77% (4/13). CONCLUSIONS SAPA is a severe, rapidly progressive complication of SFTS with high mortality, typically emerging 1-2 weeks after onset. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis using rapid methods such as mNGS and the need for timely antifungal intervention to improve patient outcomes. Early antifungal therapy in high-risk patients is crucial.},
}

Humans
Male
Middle Aged
*Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome/diagnosis/complications
China
*Pulmonary Aspergillosis/diagnosis/complications
Farmers
COVID-19
Coinfection
Aspergillus fumigatus/isolation & purification
Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use

@article {pmid42134908,
year = {2026},
author = {Herlinda, O and Jundullah, SM and Saminarsih, DS},
title = {Reaching the margins: examining equity in Indonesia's COVID-19 vaccination strategy.},
journal = {BMJ global health},
volume = {11},
number = {5},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1136/bmjgh-2025-019597},
pmid = {42134908},
issn = {2059-7908},
mesh = {Humans ; Indonesia/epidemiology ; *COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology ; *COVID-19 Vaccines/supply & distribution/administration & dosage ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Health Equity ; *Healthcare Disparities ; Pandemics/prevention & control ; *Vaccination ; Immunization Programs ; Vulnerable Populations ; },
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected health, social and economic systems worldwide. In less than a year, COVID-19 vaccines were developed and distributed. However, global and national distribution efforts faced significant challenges in ensuring equitable access, particularly for vulnerable populations. Despite WHO guidelines for national vaccine allocation, governments encountered difficulties in vaccine allocation and prioritisation. While Indonesia's COVID-19 primary dose coverage surpassed 70%, disparities persisted both across and within provinces as well as among different population groups. Discussion about the definition of vulnerable population and who should be prioritised remains critical to preparing for future pandemics. This paper argues for the establishment of clear guidelines for national governments on the allocation of vaccines, enabling timely action in future pandemics to prevent avoidable deaths and disabilities. Robust governance and data also remain a key area to improve. Drawing on Indonesia's experience with COVID-19, this paper offers recommendations for vaccine allocation during a respiratory pathogen pandemic.},
}

Humans
Indonesia/epidemiology
*COVID-19/prevention & control/epidemiology
*COVID-19 Vaccines/supply & distribution/administration & dosage
SARS-CoV-2
*Health Equity
*Healthcare Disparities
Pandemics/prevention & control
*Vaccination
Immunization Programs
Vulnerable Populations

@article {pmid42134950,
year = {2026},
author = {Tebay, Z and McNamara, P},
title = {GP burnout post-COVID-19 pandemic: a narrative review on burnout with consideration towards Deep End practices.},
journal = {The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners},
volume = {76},
number = {suppl 1},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3399/bjgp26X745485},
pmid = {42134950},
issn = {1478-5242},
mesh = {Humans ; *Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology ; *COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology ; Workload/psychology ; United Kingdom/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *General Practitioners/psychology ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Recent data suggest that GP burnout is of significant concern, particularly post-pandemic. Burnout is defined as a syndrome of fatigue and apathy resulting from chronic workplace stress; as many as 75% of GP trainees recently reported these symptoms. Increased workload and demand coupled with workforce shortages and systemic strain are contributing factors. GP burnout impacts continuity of care and threatens patient safety. These pressures significantly impact deprived Deep End practices.

AIM: To review recent evidence on GP burnout in the UK over the pandemic period, with consideration of its impact on deprived practices.

METHOD: Narrative review of 2019-2023 UK-based studies exploring GP burnout, synthesising findings from peer-reviewed literature, policy reports, and national surveys. The review focused on trends, potential drivers, and interventions.

RESULTS: Evidence indicates a sustained rise in GP burnout, accelerated over the pandemic. Contributing factors include workload intensity, administrative burden, consulting pressures, and moral failure. Studies revealed that Deep End GPs experience disproportionate burnout rates due to complex patient needs, unprecedented demand, and limited resources. Interventions involving institutional and systemic changes to improve workflow and expand the multidisciplinary team must be assessed. A meta-analysis of UK-based GP data would be invaluable to evaluate preventative interventions across different practices.

CONCLUSION: GP burnout is a growing problem, complicated by COVID-19. Future research should examine long-term trajectories and appraise protective factors, given the limitation of this review capturing small studies. UK policy should prioritise retention, resource allocation, and offer targeted support for practices, particularly Deep End, to not only protect practitioner wellbeing but service sustainability for patients.},
}

Humans
*Burnout, Professional/epidemiology/psychology
*COVID-19/epidemiology/psychology
Workload/psychology
United Kingdom/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2
*General Practitioners/psychology
Pandemics

@article {pmid42135534,
year = {2026},
author = {Rosa, GD and Raffo, M and Tammaro, S and Morelli, M and Arcaniolo, D and Pandolfo, SD and Sciorio, C and Romano, L and Manfredi, C and Cindolo, L and De Sio, M and Spirito, L},
title = {The impact of COVID-19 on sexual behavior, male sexual function, and reproductive health: an interdisciplinary narrative review from a urological perspective.},
journal = {International urology and nephrology},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42135534},
issn = {1573-2584},
abstract = {The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly modified daily life and interpersonal relationships, with relevant consequences on sexual health, which integrates biological, psychological, and social components. This narrative review summarizes current evidence regarding the impact of the pandemic on sexual behavior, sexual function, and male reproductive health. A comprehensive literature search of recent studies and clinical reports was performed focusing on psychosexual wellbeing, erectile function, fertility, and healthcare access during and after infection or lockdown periods. Current evidence indicates that lockdown-related stress, anxiety, and depression were consistently associated with reduced sexual desire and frequency of sexual activity, as reported in predominantly cross-sectional, questionnaire-based studies conducted during lockdown periods, particularly among couples with children and non-cohabiting partners, whereas alternative sexual practices increased. Sexual activity generally recovered after restrictions were lifted. Emerging data suggest a possible association between COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction mediated by endothelial damage, hypogonadism, and psychological distress, while long-COVID symptoms may further worsen sexual function. Male fertility alterations related to inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways have also been reported. Overall, the pandemic primarily affected sexuality through psychosocial mechanisms, although potential organic effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on erectile function and fertility cannot be excluded. This review provides an interdisciplinary synthesis of current evidence with a specific focus on clinically relevant urological implications, including erectile dysfunction and male reproductive health, which remain incompletely addressed in the existing literature.},
}

@article {pmid41130273,
year = {2026},
author = {Shanker, VL and Kaku, M},
title = {Successes and Challenges in Program Administration.},
journal = {Seminars in neurology},
volume = {46},
number = {3},
pages = {283-290},
doi = {10.1055/a-2713-6126},
pmid = {41130273},
issn = {1098-9021},
mesh = {Humans ; COVID-19 ; *Neurology/education ; *Internship and Residency/organization & administration ; *Clinical Competence/standards ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {The administration of a Neurology training program requires dynamic leadership. Training programs will have many internal and external challenges. The ability to prepare for these challenges is variable. This paper reviews three cases: (1) The resident who is failing to meet competency in the program, (2) the impact of the growing Vascular Neurology workload, and (3) the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on neurology training, and how these were handled within our system. The objective of this paper is to provide a road map for addressing these challenges by learning how to identify the problem, utilize available resources, and maximize communication.},
}

Humans
COVID-19
*Neurology/education
*Internship and Residency/organization & administration
*Clinical Competence/standards
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid41713871,
year = {2026},
author = {Dalrymple, WA and Ratliff, JB},
title = {A New Dawn: Resident Recruitment in the United States in the Post-COVID Era.},
journal = {Seminars in neurology},
volume = {46},
number = {3},
pages = {263-274},
doi = {10.1055/a-2794-0336},
pmid = {41713871},
issn = {1098-9021},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19 ; United States ; *Internship and Residency/trends ; *Personnel Selection/methods ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Interviews as Topic ; },
abstract = {The widespread adoption of virtual residency interviews in response to the COVID-19 pandemic led to an explosion in literature comparing the pros and cons of virtual and in-person interviews, but also led to an explosion in already-high residency application and interview volumes. While virtual interviews were substantially cheaper for all involved, there is fear that applicants and programs cannot judge one another as well as during in-person interviews. Likewise, increases in application volumes have made holistic application review more challenging for program directors, but the recent rise in "preference signaling" seems to be an optimal solution to that issue. 2020 also saw increased awareness of systemic inequities in the United States, and medical education and residency recruitment was not immune from scrutiny. Finally, the rise of artificial intelligence could again fundamentally change the resident selection process. It is imperative that the GME community continues to adapt to a changing world.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19
United States
*Internship and Residency/trends
*Personnel Selection/methods
SARS-CoV-2
Interviews as Topic

@article {pmid42106620,
year = {2026},
author = {Zakaria, AM and El Shahidy, SM and Diab, AM},
title = {Epidemiology and genetic variation of acute viral gastroenteritis in children under five years in the Middle East (2020-2025): a systematic review and meta-analysis.},
journal = {BMC infectious diseases},
volume = {26},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42106620},
issn = {1471-2334},
mesh = {Humans ; *Gastroenteritis/epidemiology/virology ; Middle East/epidemiology ; Infant ; *Genetic Variation ; Child, Preschool ; Infant, Newborn ; Prevalence ; Acute Disease/epidemiology ; Coinfection/epidemiology/virology ; *Viruses/genetics/classification ; *Virus Diseases/epidemiology/virology ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Acute viral gastroenteritis remains a major cause of morbidity and hospitalization among children under five years worldwide. In the Middle East, epidemiological and molecular evidence remains fragmented, particularly in the post-COVID-19 period. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize recent data (2020-2025) on the prevalence, genetic diversity, and co-infection patterns of enteric viruses among children aged 0-59 months in the region.

METHODS: A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and the WHO Global Index Medicus identified eligible observational and molecular studies published between 1 January 2020 and 31 May 2025. Study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment were independently conducted by two reviewers according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. The protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251064184). Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using a random-effects model with Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation.

RESULTS: Forty-three studies, including 22,021 children tested for acute gastroenteritis (AGE) from nine Middle Eastern countries, met the inclusion criteria. Rotavirus (28 studies) was the most prevalent pathogen, with a pooled prevalence of 30.4% (95% CI: 24.3-35.8; I² = 96%, p < 0.001), followed by norovirus (12 studies) at 23.5% (95% CI: 11.4-29), adenovirus (13 studies) at 11.3% (95% CI: 8.6-17.6), and astrovirus (10 studies) at 6.0% (95% CI: 1.3-12.7). Predominant rotavirus genotypes included G1, G2, G3, and G9, commonly combined with P[8], P[4], and P[6], with G3P[8] and G1P[8] as dominant constellations. Norovirus GII.4 and recombinant GII.4[P16] strains were frequently detected. Viral co-infections were also reported, particularly involving rotavirus and other enteric viruses.

CONCLUSION: Rotavirus and norovirus remain the principal viral causes of pediatric acute gastroenteritis in the Middle East and exhibit substantial genetic diversity with frequent co-infection patterns. However, marked inter-study heterogeneity and uneven geographic representation limit regional generalizability. Strengthened molecular surveillance, standardized diagnostic approaches, and continuous genotype monitoring are essential to optimize prevention strategies and vaccination policies across the region.},
}

Humans
*Gastroenteritis/epidemiology/virology
Middle East/epidemiology
Infant
*Genetic Variation
Child, Preschool
Infant, Newborn
Prevalence
Acute Disease/epidemiology
Coinfection/epidemiology/virology
*Viruses/genetics/classification
*Virus Diseases/epidemiology/virology

@article {pmid42121619,
year = {2026},
author = {Kész, A and Balatoni, I},
title = {Globalization in the Healthcare Industry: Drivers, Risks, and Adaptation.},
journal = {Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)},
volume = {14},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/healthcare14091177},
pmid = {42121619},
issn = {2227-9032},
abstract = {Globalization refers to the increasing density of economic, social, and technological interconnections on a global scale. In the healthcare industry, it simultaneously accelerates innovation and increases systemic vulnerabilities. This study aims to review and conceptually synthesise the main channels of impact: (1) pharmaceuticals, clinical development, and regulation; (2) supply chains and resilience; (3) service mobility (health tourism); (4) human resources and competencies; (5) digitalization, artificial intelligence (AI), and data governance; (6) ethics, law, and public policy; and (7) sustainability and climate change. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the risks associated with global interdependencies, particularly in supply chains, while also demonstrating the innovation-accelerating effects of knowledge sharing and international cooperation. Particular attention is given to artificial intelligence and digital health, which open up new potential for efficiency and quality improvement from research and development through diagnostics to healthcare organization, while simultaneously intensifying concerns related to data protection, cyber security, and liability. Telemedicine, platform-based systems, and real-world data may contribute to addressing the care needs of ageing societies, but only when supported by appropriate competencies and sound data governance. As global data flows intensify, the importance of data protection, bias mitigation, transparency, and accountability correspondingly increases. Through the cultural channels of globalization, health-conscious lifestyles and complementary approaches are also spreading, which we address in a brief, separate subsection. The guidelines of international organizations foster standardization; however, due to differences in local capacities and institutional environments, the effects are not homogeneous. In conclusion, the study emphasises the dual nature of globalization; it expands access and accelerates innovation, while at the same time creating new vulnerabilities-in supply chains, labour mobility, and data security-and, together with climate-related risks, generating complex adaptive pressures for the healthcare industry.},
}

@article {pmid42121847,
year = {2026},
author = {Vezzoli, M and Dieci, G and Ferrari, R},
title = {The Viral Immunoshadow: Early Adenovirus Strategies for Cloaking Innate Immunity with E1A, E4orf1, and Beyond.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cells15090746},
pmid = {42121847},
issn = {2073-4409},
support = {IG2022-27712//Italian Association for Cancer Research (AIRC)/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Immunity, Innate/immunology ; *Adenoviruses, Human/immunology/pathogenicity ; *Adenovirus E1A Proteins/immunology/metabolism ; *Adenovirus E4 Proteins/immunology ; Virus Replication ; Animals ; *Adenovirus Infections, Human/immunology/virology ; },
abstract = {Human adenovirus (HAdV), a double-stranded DNA virus, targets terminally differentiated cells in the upper respiratory tract. As a key platform for gene therapy vectors, elucidating HAdV's virulence factors is vital for optimizing therapeutic applications and mitigating risks. To achieve productive replication, HAdV strategically neutralizes host immune defenses and induces S-phase pathways essential for viral propagation. This review synthesizes the latest insights into the key pathways through which HAdVs harness these early proteins to enhance virulence, skilfully evading and counteracting host defense mechanisms while propelling viral replication. As foundational platforms for gene therapy vectors (e.g., in oncology and rare disease treatments) and vaccine backbones (e.g., COVID-19 vaccines like ChAdOx1), understanding HAdV's immunoshadowing-the multifaceted strategies used to cloak innate and adaptive immunity-is crucial for enhancing vector safety and efficacy. Recent insights unveil how early viral proteins-including E1A, E1B-55K, E4orf1, E4orf3, E4orf6, and the E3 complex-participate in these processes. This review critically synthesizes these pathways, evaluating study limitations such as reliance on immortalized cell lines that underestimate the role of these proteins in immunological competent cells, and addresses unresolved controversies, including differential immunoshadowing efficacy across HAdV species that impacts vaccine design.},
}

Humans
*Immunity, Innate/immunology
*Adenoviruses, Human/immunology/pathogenicity
*Adenovirus E1A Proteins/immunology/metabolism
*Adenovirus E4 Proteins/immunology
Virus Replication
Animals
*Adenovirus Infections, Human/immunology/virology

@article {pmid42121889,
year = {2026},
author = {Kopańska, M and Trojniak, J and Góral-Półrola, J and Pąchalska, M},
title = {Alterations in Cortical Oscillatory Dynamics Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection: QEEG Biomarkers of Vulnerability to Attention and Seizure-Related Symptoms.},
journal = {Cells},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/cells15090790},
pmid = {42121889},
issn = {2073-4409},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/complications/physiopathology ; *Electroencephalography/methods ; *Seizures/physiopathology/etiology ; Biomarkers/metabolism ; SARS-CoV-2 ; *Attention/physiology ; *Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology ; },
abstract = {SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with not only acute respiratory symptoms but is also characterized by strong neurotropism which may contribute to the development of the multisystem post-COVID syndrome (PASC). Patients frequently report chronic neurocognitive disorders such as brain fog, significant attention deficits and increased susceptibility to epileptiform discharges. The aim of this review is to systematize the knowledge regarding deviations in quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) recordings in convalescents and to evaluate the utility of this method as an objective biomarker. This work constitutes a comprehensive literature review integrating the latest data on neuroinflammation, blood-brain barrier damage and changes in cortical oscillatory dynamics induced by the infection. The literature analysis indicates that the virus may induce a pathological excitation and inhibition imbalance (E/I imbalance) in neuronal networks. In QEEG studies this manifests as excessive activity of slow bands (Theta, Delta), a deficit of rhythms responsible for attention and sensorimotor integration (SMR) and a pathologically elevated Theta to Beta ratio (TBR). In conclusion, QEEG can serve as an objective and highly sensitive tool supporting the diagnosis and stratification of patients with neurocognitive complications of Long COVID. The integration of precise electrophysiological phenotyping with targeted behavioral neuromodulation (e.g., EEG-Biofeedback) fits into the paradigm of personalized medicine and offers a prospective strategy for mitigating long-term neurological burdens.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/complications/physiopathology
*Electroencephalography/methods
*Seizures/physiopathology/etiology
Biomarkers/metabolism
SARS-CoV-2
*Attention/physiology
*Cerebral Cortex/physiopathology

@article {pmid42122974,
year = {2026},
author = {Baiasu, AF and Rotaru-Zavaleanu, AD and Boldea, AM and Ruscu, MA and Serbanescu, MS and Radu, L},
title = {Bridging Traditional Modeling and Artificial Intelligence in Measles Epidemiology: Methods, Applications, and Future Directions-A Narrative Review.},
journal = {Journal of clinical medicine},
volume = {15},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/jcm15093242},
pmid = {42122974},
issn = {2077-0383},
abstract = {Measles remains one of the most contagious infectious diseases globally and continues to pose substantial public health risks despite decades of effective vaccination. This narrative review examines both classical and contemporary computational approaches used for measles monitoring, prediction, and control, with particular attention given to the emerging role of artificial intelligence (AI). We synthesized findings from 46 studies; 31 focused directly on measles and 15 on methodologically relevant studies from related infectious diseases (COVID-19, influenza, malaria), selected through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, and preprint servers, conducted between June and December 2025. Traditional compartmental models (SIR, SEIR, MSEIR), statistical tools (ARIMA, SARIMA), and seroepidemiological analysis provide transparent, well-characterized frameworks for estimating transmission dynamics and simulating intervention scenarios. Spatial modeling, network analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations have added geographic granularity to outbreak characterization. More recently, AI and machine learning (ML) methods, including supervised algorithms (Random Forest, XGBoost, SVM), deep learning architectures (CNN, LSTM), and hybrid mechanistic ML models, have shown improved predictive performance by integrating multiple data sources: epidemiological records, demographic profiles, mobility patterns, and behavioral indicators. AI-based approaches appear most valuable for high-dimensional risk prediction and image-based diagnostic tasks, while classical models retain clear advantages for policy-oriented scenario analysis. However, no AI-based or hybrid model identified in this review has been adopted into routine national measles surveillance or used for vaccination policy decisions at scale. Important challenges remain: data quality varies across settings, model generalizability cannot be assumed, and computational infrastructure disparities limit deployment in high-burden regions. Explainable AI, federated learning, workforce training for model interpretation, and integration of vaccination registries with mobility and genomic surveillance data represent concrete future directions for strengthening computational support for measles elimination.},
}

@article {pmid42123618,
year = {2026},
author = {Wirth, KJ and Scheibenbogen, C},
title = {Imbalance of Excitatory and Inhibitory Neurotransmitter Systems in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.},
journal = {International journal of molecular sciences},
volume = {27},
number = {9},
pages = {},
doi = {10.3390/ijms27094041},
pmid = {42123618},
issn = {1422-0067},
mesh = {Humans ; *Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/metabolism/physiopathology ; *Neurotransmitter Agents/metabolism ; *COVID-19/metabolism/complications ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Synaptic Transmission ; Animals ; },
abstract = {Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and post-COVID-19 syndrome share a symptom profile, including severe fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, exertional intolerance, sleep disturbances, hypervigilance, and the paradoxical state of being "wired but tired." A well-established finding is sympathetic hyperactivity with reduced vagal tone, typically interpreted as autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Emerging evidence, however, suggests a broader disturbance across multiple neurotransmitter systems. This paper reviews current knowledge on neurotransmitter systems implicated in ME/CFS and Long COVID, focusing on potential mechanisms of dysregulation and their roles in disease pathology and symptom generation, as well as implications for treatment. In addition to abnormalities of the noradrenergic system, disturbances in serotonergic, GABAergic, and glutamatergic signaling have been reported. Contributing factors may include autoimmunity, neuroinflammation, gut dysbiosis, epigenetic influences, and stressors such as orthostatic intolerance, metabolic strain, and pain. A shift favoring excitatory over inhibitory neurotransmission can lead to excessive neural activation, autonomic dysfunction, sensory hypersensitivities, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairment. Reduced GABAergic tone combined with increased glutamatergic and noradrenergic activity may elevate skeletal muscle tone, contributing to calcium overload, mitochondrial dysfunction, exertional intolerance, and post-exertional malaise. Various pharmacological treatments may partially rebalance these neurotransmitter systems, but limited efficacy highlights the need for systematic investigation and individualized strategies.},
}

Humans
*Fatigue Syndrome, Chronic/metabolism/physiopathology
*Neurotransmitter Agents/metabolism
*COVID-19/metabolism/complications
SARS-CoV-2
Synaptic Transmission
Animals

@article {pmid42126095,
year = {2025},
author = {Pourshaban, M and Allahbakhshian, A and Purabdollah, M},
title = {Mapping the Contributing Factors to Missed Nursing Care in Hospital Settings During a Global Health Crisis: A Systematic Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of nursing management},
volume = {2025},
number = {1},
pages = {e7343469},
doi = {10.1155/jonm/7343469},
pmid = {42126095},
issn = {1365-2834},
support = {75775//Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences/ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology ; Global Health ; *Nursing Care/standards/statistics & numerical data ; Pandemics ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Little foreknowledge and preparation exist for health-related crises, and they do not match the magnitude of the problem. During the COVID-19 pandemic, nursing care in some countries faced more challenges. One of these challenges was missed nursing care. This scoping review aims to identify and map the factors influencing missed nursing care in hospital settings during the COVID-19 pandemic in studies conducted in developed and developing countries.

METHODS: A scoping review was conducted according to methodology recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). We searched five databases-PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, ProQuest, and Web of Science-as well as the Google Scholar search engine, from December 2019 to July 2025. Keywords of the study were selected according to the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and previous research. We included studies in hospital wards that examined missed nursing care and related concepts, specifically those whose data collection periods occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic. Language restrictions were not applied. The factors were derived inductively, considering conceptual similarities, relevance to the core themes, and similarities in meaning, including aspects related to the missed nursing care model, the developed model derived from it related to the factors considered for missed nursing care, and emerging challenges introduced by COVID-19. Findings were reported following the PRISMA-ScR.

FINDINGS: From the 1966 studies, we included 57 articles in the final review. Among them, 50 were cross-sectional, four were qualitative, two were mixed, and one was quasiexperimental. They were conducted mainly in Iran and the hospital units. Four main themes and nine subthemes emerged (1) work environment (structure, work climate), (2) nurse characteristics (individual and professional, personal), (3) workflow characteristics (intensity, predictability, risk), (4) country (developed, developing). Although the lack of human resources was reported in most studies, it was not the most significant contributing factor.

CONCLUSION: These findings can inform the development of strategies to address underlying factors affecting workflow, such as nurses' attitudes and the work environment, thereby enhancing adaptability to future global health crises and serving as a crucial policy foundation for mitigating the missed nursing care during health emergencies.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: These findings not only complement other global research exploring the reasons behind missed cares in nursing but also offer a framework for understanding and anticipating reported instances of missed care, enabling targeted interventions to address them effectively.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/nursing/epidemiology
Global Health
*Nursing Care/standards/statistics & numerical data
Pandemics
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid42127571,
year = {2026},
author = {Obilor, HN and Oluwole, O and Ross-White, A and Premji, SS and , and , },
title = {Mental health and mental health care of South and East Asian immigrant pregnant women residing in five OECD Countries: A systematic review.},
journal = {Midwifery},
volume = {159},
number = {},
pages = {104818},
doi = {10.1016/j.midw.2026.104818},
pmid = {42127571},
issn = {1532-3099},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: South and East Asian immigrant pregnant women across Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) countries face barriers to accessing perinatal mental health care. This review examined the prevalence of common mental health conditions and experiences with perinatal mental health services among South and East Asian immigrant pregnant women in five OECD countries (Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand).

METHODS: A systematic review was conducted using a comprehensive search strategy developed by an expert librarian for five databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and MIDIRS) from inception to February 2026. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies and published abstracts were considered.

RESULTS: The review comprised six studies (five quantitative and one qualitative) conducted in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. The point prevalence of depression and state anxiety among participants was 16.3% and 19.7%, respectively, based on studies published mostly between 2012 and 2016. The qualitative study suggested that the utilization of mental health services was poor due to a lack of understanding of mental health issues, stigma, language barriers, cultural taboos, and distrust of mental health professionals.

CONCLUSIONS: The review highlights the magnitude of antenatal depression and anxiety among South and East Asian immigrants, mainly before the COVID-19 pandemic. More research is required to understand the current demand for perinatal mental health services among immigrant South and East Asian pregnant women. Evaluating how effectively each OECD country is prioritizing the mental health needs of this population post-COVID-19 will inform practice and policy reform.

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42023440054 PROSPERO Identifier: CRD42023440054.},
}

@article {pmid42128720,
year = {2026},
author = {Cantor-Cutiva, LC and Ramirez Ardila, MDP and Hunter, EJ},
title = {Gaps and Future Directions in the Research About Masking and Voice Production: Bibliometric Analysis, Systematic Literature Review, and Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of voice : official journal of the Voice Foundation},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1016/j.jvoice.2026.04.013},
pmid = {42128720},
issn = {1873-4588},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: While facemasks have played a vital role in mitigating the spread of infectious diseases, their prolonged use has raised questions about their potential effects on voice production and communication.

METHODS: The present study integrated three complementary methodological approaches with three specific aims. First, to identify trends in research on facemasks and voice production, including thematic clusters and patterns, using bibliometric methods. Second, critically appraise and synthesize findings from primary research studies on the effects of facemask use on voice-related outcomes through a systematic literature review. Third, to determine the pooled effects of facemask use on selected vocal outcomes, where data allow, using meta-analysis.

RESULTS: In total, 48 publications were included in this review. The term co-occurrence network map generated with VOSviewer showed three clusters: voice-related consequences of mask use during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of protective equipment on speech acoustics and intelligibility, and acoustic markers of voice quality in healthy speakers. The overlay visualization map showed that earlier studies emphasized the subjective assessment of the relationship between facemasks and voice production. In contrast, more recent publications reflect a growing interest in the instrumental assessment of the relationship. Most studies based their results on voice acoustic analysis, followed by questionnaires and aerodynamic assessment. The results suggested no significant differences in fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, harmonics-to-noise ratio, and maximum phonation time. The results on vocal effort and sound pressure levels are inconsistent. The meta-analysis suggested that facemasks cause a small increase in SPL, but the effect was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION: Facemasks create complex communication challenges that extend beyond acoustic changes to encompass multimodal perception disruption and disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations. While acoustic measurements show minimal direct effects, the elimination of visual speech cues and facial expression recognition may create substantial barriers for individuals with hearing impairments, developmental disabilities, and age-related communication difficulties.},
}

@article {pmid42129070,
year = {2026},
author = {Veenstra, TD},
title = {Basic Virology.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1511},
number = {},
pages = {29-49},
pmid = {42129070},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity ; *COVID-19/virology/epidemiology ; *Proteomics/methods ; *Virology/methods ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {Current generations are living through a historical event in virology: the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. If you asked people when the last major pandemic was, many would probably say the Spanish flu of 1918-1920. Pandemics happen more frequently than most people think (Sampath et al., Cureus 13:e18136-18144, 2021). There have been at least five recorded pandemics between the Spanish flu and the recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. While the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has brought with it indescribable sorrow and pain, it has also increased people's awareness of the impact viruses can have on life on Earth. Terms such as hygiene, modes of infection, community spread, quarantine, vaccines, etc. have become part of our daily conversations. As this book's first chapter provided a basic review of proteomic technologies for virologists, this chapter provides a basic review of virology for proteomic scientists. While virologist may find this chapter unsatisfying, hopefully proteomic scientists will learn enough to be able to understand how proteomic technology can be used to further detail the structure, function, and life cycle of viruses. This chapter will provide both generic and specific examples of viral structures, how they infect cells, and their effects on both the infected cell and the entire organism.},
}

Humans
*SARS-CoV-2/pathogenicity
*COVID-19/virology/epidemiology
*Proteomics/methods
*Virology/methods
Pandemics

@article {pmid42129072,
year = {2026},
author = {Veenstra, TD},
title = {Viral Prognosis Using Proteomics.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1511},
number = {},
pages = {75-102},
pmid = {42129072},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/virology/diagnosis/metabolism/epidemiology ; *Proteomics/methods ; *SARS-CoV-2/genetics/metabolism/pathogenicity ; Prognosis ; Pandemics ; },
abstract = {So much was learned during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020-2023. Some of the things that were learned were obvious. Many people in the public learned about social distancing, personal hygiene, and how to conduct a COVID-19 diagnostic test. Pharmaceutical companies and government organizations learned to efficiently work together to produce and distribute vaccines in record time. Although it may have generated controversy, the value in getting vaccinated was revalidated. There were other things that the world learned, although it was not as obvious. The effect of vaccination rate on preventing virus mutation became evident during the pandemic. The original SARS-CoV-2 virus that started the pandemic mutated several times over the course of the pandemic. One thing that became clear during the pandemic was the lack of knowledge on how SARS-CoV-2 infection would affect individuals during the course of the disease. This inability to accurately prognose the disease made it difficult to personalize treatments for specific individuals and the distribution of resources to protect the most vulnerable populations challenging. What is required to increase the accuracy of prognosis is more knowledge about how dynamic changes occur within the host cell during viral infection. Since many proteins become dysregulated during infection, proteomics is a prime technology for gaining this knowledge to increase prognostic capabilities and enable personalized treatments that alleviate the suffering viruses cause on humanity.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/virology/diagnosis/metabolism/epidemiology
*Proteomics/methods
*SARS-CoV-2/genetics/metabolism/pathogenicity
Prognosis
Pandemics

@article {pmid42129074,
year = {2026},
author = {Veenstra, TD},
title = {The Pathology of Viral Infections.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1511},
number = {},
pages = {127-158},
pmid = {42129074},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Virus Diseases/pathology/virology ; *Viruses/pathogenicity ; *Microbiota ; Animals ; Host-Pathogen Interactions ; },
abstract = {If you were to ask, "Biologically speaking, what are humans made of?", almost everyone would reply "Human cells and molecules, of course." This seemingly logical answer, however, does not truly capture the diversity of the human organism. Over the past couple of decades scientists have discovered that humans are a collective of cohabitating human, bacteria, and fungi cells along with countless numbers of viruses. Collectively, these microorganisms are referred to as the microbiome (Lederberg and McCray, The Scientist 15:8, 2001). The most recent estimates suggest the biological material from these microorganisms makes up as much as half of every human. Considering the size of the microbiome, it is not surprising that humans share an intimate relationship with viruses since they will be found wherever life exists.},
}

Humans
*Virus Diseases/pathology/virology
*Viruses/pathogenicity
*Microbiota
Animals
Host-Pathogen Interactions

@article {pmid42129077,
year = {2026},
author = {Veenstra, TD},
title = {Proteomic Analysis of Influenza.},
journal = {Advances in experimental medicine and biology},
volume = {1511},
number = {},
pages = {223-258},
pmid = {42129077},
issn = {0065-2598},
mesh = {Humans ; *Influenza, Human/virology/epidemiology/metabolism ; *Proteomics/methods ; Pandemics ; *Viral Proteins/metabolism/genetics ; },
abstract = {The past several years have increased the public's knowledge of various terms related to virology. Besides learning about messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines, N95 masks, and coronaviruses (CoVs), we became familiar with the term pandemic. Pandemics are not novel. There have been approximately 250 pandemics recorded throughout history since 1200 B.C. with approximately 20 of these resulting in the deaths of more than one million people (https://study.com/learn/lesson/pandemics-in-history.html ; Sampath S et al., Cureus 13:e18136, 2021). The earliest recorded pandemic for which there is detailed information is the Justinian plague (Drancourt M and Raoult D, Clin Microbiol Infect 22:911-915, 2016). This pandemic began in 540 A.D., lasted for two centuries, and was a major factor that hastened the fall of the Roman Empire. So what exactly is a pandemic? At its most basic a pandemic is a disease that is simultaneously occurring worldwide, affecting many individuals. This definition does not include anything about the severity of the disease or the population's immunity. While most people would say that pandemics and epidemics are extremely rare, there have been six just in the last two decades (Bhadoria P et al., J Family Med Prim Care 10:2745-2750, 2021). These include the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 1 (SARS-CoV-1), swine flu, Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome CoV infection, Ebola virus, Zika virus, and the most recent SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (see Table 9.1).},
}

Humans
*Influenza, Human/virology/epidemiology/metabolism
*Proteomics/methods
Pandemics
*Viral Proteins/metabolism/genetics

@article {pmid42115792,
year = {2026},
author = {Manti, S and Licari, A and Del Giudice, MM and Tosca, MA and Ciprandi, G and Marseglia, G},
title = {Pragmatic management of acute cough in children and adolescents: an updated position paper by the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology (SIAIP).},
journal = {Allergologia et immunopathologia},
volume = {54},
number = {3},
pages = {31-41},
pmid = {42115792},
issn = {1578-1267},
support = {//The publication was supported by the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology (SIAIP)./ ; },
mesh = {Humans ; *Cough/therapy/diagnosis/etiology ; Adolescent ; Child ; Italy ; *COVID-19/complications/epidemiology ; Acute Disease ; Societies, Medical ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Quality of Life ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cough is one of the most common and distressing symptoms in pediatric practice and represents a major cause of medical consultation, parental anxiety, and inappropriate medication use. Although most acute cough episodes are benign and self-limiting, they can significantly affect child's sleep, school performance, and quality of life. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent changes in infection patterns and immune responses have further highlighted the need to update the existing clinical guidance.

OBJECTIVE: This joint position paper by the Italian Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology (SIAIP) aims to provide a pragmatic, evidence-based update on the management of acute and post-viral cough in children and adolescents, integrating recent scientific advances and real-world clinical experiences.

METHODS: A multidisciplinary board of experts from SIAIP critically reviewed the literature published from 2019 to 2025 and updated the previous 2019 SIAIP document. The group achieved consensus on diagnostic and therapeutic recommendations through structured discussion and iterative revision.

RESULTS: The document emphasizes a stepwise approach to pediatric acute cough, starting with careful history-taking, clinical evaluation, and reassurance. Non-pharmacological measures-hydration, nasal saline irrigation, and avoidance of irritants-remain the first-line management. Pharmacological therapy may be considered in selected cases where cough is particularly distressing or significantly interferes with sleep; peripherally acting, nonsedative antitussives represent a reasonable option in terms of efficacy and safety. Centrally acting antitussives and unnecessary antibiotics should be avoided. Standardized, high-quality natural medical devices-with appropriate supporting evidence-represent a valid option. Honey-based preparations can be considered as complementary options. The paper also discusses new insights into cough pathophysiology, particularly the role of airway sensory hypersensitivity and neurogenic inflammation, which are paving the way for mechanism-based treatments.

CONCLUSIONS: This position paper provides an updated, pragmatic framework for the management of acute and post-viral cough in children and adolescents. It promotes rational drug use, integration of non-pharmacological and complementary measures, and awareness of emerging therapeutic targets. A mechanism-driven, individualized, and family-centered approach is advocated to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life for pediatric patients.},
}

Humans
*Cough/therapy/diagnosis/etiology
Adolescent
Child
Italy
*COVID-19/complications/epidemiology
Acute Disease
Societies, Medical
SARS-CoV-2
Quality of Life

@article {pmid42116176,
year = {2026},
author = {Soliman, AR and Abouzeid, A and Ahmed, HH},
title = {Obesity and respiratory diseases: mechanisms, phenotypes, and clinical implications.},
journal = {Diabetology & metabolic syndrome},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1186/s13098-026-02164-6},
pmid = {42116176},
issn = {1758-5996},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Obesity has emerged as a global pandemic with profound implications for respiratory health. The complex interplay between excessive adiposity and pulmonary function encompasses mechanical, metabolic, and inflammatory pathways that significantly impact morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVES: This comprehensive review synthesizes current evidence on obesity-related respiratory disorders, examining pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical phenotypes, epidemiological trends, and therapeutic considerations across the spectrum of respiratory diseases. This review provides a novel integrative framework unifying mechanical, inflammatory, and metabolic mechanisms across all major obesity-related respiratory conditions, with emphasis on clinically actionable phenotyping and emerging pharmacological therapies.

METHODS: We conducted a narrative review of peer-reviewed literature (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Database, January 2000 - December 2024, using pre-specified MeSH terms; study selection and quality assessment followed SANRA guidelines focusing on the relationship between obesity and respiratory disorders including asthma, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respiratory infections, and lung cancer.

RESULTS: Obesity profoundly affects respiratory mechanics through a right-shift of the static volume-pressure relationship of the chest wall, reducing FRC and ERV without a true restrictive pattern, altered respiratory muscle function, and systemic inflammation. Asthma prevalence increases with body mass index, demonstrating distinct phenotypes including atopic, insulin-resistant, dyslipidemic, and non-Th2 neutrophilic subtypes. OSA affects 22% of men and 17% of women, with obesity being the principal modifiable risk factor. OHS occurs in 8-20% of obese patients with sleep-disordered breathing, characterized by daytime hypercapnia (arising from impaired neuromuscular ventilatory drive and progressive nocturnal hypoventilation) and increased cardiovascular mortality. Paradoxically, obesity appears protective in advanced COPD by reducing FRC, thereby increasing inspiratory capacity and limiting dynamic pulmonary hyperinflation, and ARDS-the so-called obesity paradox-while conferring increased risk in COVID-19 pneumonitis. In lung cancer, obesity demonstrates complex relationships with risk and prognosis that vary by sex, smoking status, and disease stage.

CONCLUSIONS: Obesity-related respiratory disorders represent a multifaceted clinical challenge requiring integrated multidisciplinary approaches. Understanding distinct phenotypes and pathophysiological mechanisms is essential for personalized therapeutic strategies addressing both weight management and respiratory-specific interventions. Emerging pharmacological therapies including GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists show particular promise in improving OSA severity and airway inflammation.},
}

@article {pmid42116640,
year = {2026},
author = {Verryt, C and Gray, P and McNaughton, P and Peake, J and Wong, M and Aho, G and Best, E and Brewerton, M and Lutui, F and Tulifau, LE and Qin, R and Viali, S and White, P and Wood, A and Woon, ST and Cole, T and Charry, AP and Hsiao, KC},
title = {Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Heritable IFNAR1 Deficiency in Oceania.},
journal = {Journal of paediatrics and child health},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
doi = {10.1111/jpc.70421},
pmid = {42116640},
issn = {1440-1754},
abstract = {Autosomal recessive interferon alpha and beta receptor subunit 1 (IFNAR1) deficiency is a rare and heritable inborn error of immunity (IEI) predisposing individuals to severe and life-threatening viral infections. It is more common in people of Western Polynesian ancestry, with estimates of around one in six thousand live births affected, due to being homozygous for or having two copies of the regionally relevant pathogenic IFNAR1 variant c.1156G>T, p.Glu386*. IFNAR1 deficiency confers an increased risk of severe and life-threatening infections caused by naturally circulating viruses including influenza, SARS-CoV-2, herpes simplex virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), arboviruses and viruses in live attenuated vaccines (LAVs) including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) and yellow fever. Complications including virus induced systemic hyperinflammation (VISH) are associated with significant mortality. This document outlines expert consensus regarding early identification, diagnostic workup and management of IFNAR1 deficiency in Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand and Western Pacific nations.},
}

@article {pmid42117022,
year = {2026},
author = {Yousefi, M and Sheydaee, F and Khoshnoodifar, M},
title = {E-learning Challenges among Healthcare Students: A Scoping Review.},
journal = {Journal of advances in medical education & professionalism},
volume = {14},
number = {2},
pages = {129-147},
pmid = {42117022},
issn = {2322-2220},
abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Despite the growing reliance on e-learning and the paradigm-shifting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on educational systems, there is a lack of up-to-date evidence on the specific challenges that healthcare students confront in practical courses. Thus, this scoping review aims to address the challenges of E-learning among healthcare students post-pandemic and to provide possible solutions.

METHODS: This study was undertaken using the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. A search of English-language materials and peer-reviewed articles was performed from January 2020 to November 18, 2023, across five databases: PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, and EMBASE. Quality appraisal was done using JBI checklists.

RESULTS: Of the 4,559 potential records, 95 articles were included in this study. Using thematic analysis, 12 themes were identified, including Rapid progression and obligatory shift, Physical and mental problems of learners, Low digital literacy, Technical problems, Financial burden, Challenges of designing a practical course, Omission of learners' feedback in Designing, Learning contents and adopted strategy challenges, Unpreparedness of users, Lack of engagement and distracting learning environment, Lack of users' security and support, and Summative evaluation challenges.

CONCLUSION: Although a vast majority of literature highlights the effectiveness of E-learning courses, weaknesses such as engagement, interaction, development of practical skills, and evaluation of challenges are mentioned in literature. Thus, the use of blended learning in the LMICs in conjunction with instructional models, like the ADDIE model, is strongly recommended throughout the entire learning process to forecast upcoming challenges and prevent them, thereby boosting the quality of an E-learning course.},
}

@article {pmid42117444,
year = {2026},
author = {Iannizzi, C and Chai, KL and Piechotta, V and Monsef, I and Wood, EM and Lamikanra, AA and Roberts, DJ and McQuilten, Z and So-Osman, C and Jindal, A and Estcourt, LJ and Skoetz, N and Kreuzberger, N},
title = {Convalescent plasma for people with COVID-19.},
journal = {The Cochrane database of systematic reviews},
volume = {5},
number = {},
pages = {CD013600},
pmid = {42117444},
issn = {1469-493X},
mesh = {Humans ; *COVID-19/therapy/mortality ; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic ; COVID-19 Serotherapy ; *Immunization, Passive/methods/adverse effects ; SARS-CoV-2 ; Bias ; Quality of Life ; Cause of Death ; Pandemics ; Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data ; },
abstract = {RATIONALE: Convalescent plasma (CP) may reduce mortality in people with viral respiratory diseases, and is being investigated as a potential therapy for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). A thorough understanding of the current body of evidence regarding the benefits and risks of this intervention is required.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the effectiveness and safety of convalescent plasma transfusion in the treatment of people with COVID-19.

SEARCH METHODS: To identify completed and ongoing studies, we searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, the Epistemonikos COVID-19 L*OVE Platform, and clinical trial registries to October 2024.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating convalescent plasma for people with COVID-19, irrespective of disease severity, age, gender, or ethnicity. We excluded studies investigating other coronavirus diseases or standard immunoglobulin.

OUTCOMES: We used the GRADE approach to rate the certainty of evidence for the following outcomes: all-cause mortality (up to day 28), worsening and improvement of clinical status (for individuals with moderate to severe disease), hospital admission or death, COVID-19 symptoms resolution (for individuals with mild disease), quality of life (QoL), grade 3/4 adverse events, and serious adverse events.

RISK OF BIAS: We used RoB 2 to assess bias in included studies.

SYNTHESIS METHODS: We followed standard Cochrane methodology.

INCLUDED STUDIES: We included 48 RCTs (24,518 participants), 15 of which were added in this update. We also identified 36 new ongoing studies and 33 completed studies awaiting classification.

SYNTHESIS OF RESULTS: Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 and moderate to severe disease Forty-two RCTs investigated the use of CP for 21,393 participants with moderate to severe disease. Of these, 36 RCTs (20,798 participants) compared CP to placebo or standard care, five (604 participants) to standard plasma, and one (190 participants) to human immunoglobulin. In the full review, we performed subgroup analyses by antibody detection, time since symptom onset, country income level, and key comorbidities. Convalescent plasma versus placebo or standard care alone CP does not reduce all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (risk ratio (RR) 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.90 to 1.03; 31 RCTs, 20,798 participants; high-certainty evidence). It has little to no impact on the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, or death (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.08; 8 RCTs, 15,189 participants; high-certainty evidence) and has no impact on whether participants are discharged from hospital (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.02; 9 RCTs, 13,930 participants; high-certainty evidence). CP may have little to no impact on QoL (MD 1.00, 95% CI -2.14 to 4.14; 1 RCT, 483 participants; low-certainty evidence). CP may have little to no impact on the risk of grade 3/4 adverse events (RR 1.17, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.42; 6 RCTs, 2392 participants; low-certainty evidence). It probably has little to no effect on the risk of serious adverse events (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.38; 11 studies, 5298 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Convalescent plasma versus standard plasma The evidence is uncertain about whether CP reduces all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.10; 5 RCTs, 604 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and whether it increases the need for invasive mechanical ventilation, or death (RR 5.59, 95% CI 0.29 to 108.38; 1 study, 34 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence is uncertain about whether convalescent plasma reduces or increases the risk of grade 3/4 adverse events (1 RCT, 248 participants). The evidence is also uncertain about whether CP reduces the risk of serious adverse events (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.17; 4 RCTs, 447 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No studies in this comparison reported clinical improvement or QoL. Individuals with a confirmed diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and mild disease Six RCTs investigated the use of CP for 2761 participants with mild disease. Four RCTs (1164 participants) compared CP to placebo or standard care alone, and two (1597 participants) to standard plasma. Convalescent plasma versus placebo or standard care alone The evidence is uncertain about whether CP reduces all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (odds ratio (OR) 1.24, 95% CI 0.33 to 4.60; 3 RCTs, 1004 participants; very low-certainty evidence) and admission to hospital or death within 28 days (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.04 to 4.81; 2 RCTs, 493 participants; very low-certainty evidence). It may have little to no impact on time to COVID-19 symptom resolution (hazard ratio (HR) 1.05, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.30; 1 RCT, 376 participants) and on the risk of grade 3/4 adverse events (RR 1.29, 95% CI 0.75 to 2.19; 1 RCT, 376 participants), both with low-certainty evidence. The evidence is uncertain about whether CP has an impact on the risk of serious adverse events (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.26; 2 RCTs, 494 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No studies in this comparison reported other critical outcomes. Convalescent plasma versus standard plasma The evidence is uncertain about whether CP reduces all-cause mortality at up to day 28 (RR 0.41, 95% CI 0.05 to 3.06; 2 RCTs, 1597 participants; very low-certainty evidence). It probably reduces admission to hospital or death within 28 days (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.78; 2 RCTs, 1597 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). CP may have little to no effect on initial symptom resolution at up to day 28 (RR 1.12, 95% CI 0.82 to 1.54; 1 RCT, 416 participants; low-certainty evidence). Neither study in this comparison reported other critical outcomes.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Compared with placebo or standard care, high-certainty evidence shows that CP does not reduce mortality in individuals with moderate to severe disease and has little to no effect on clinical improvement or worsening. CP probably has little to no effect on serious adverse events. Publication of ongoing studies might resolve some of the uncertainties around CP therapy for people with asymptomatic or mild disease. This review was previously a living systematic review, from the first version published in 2020 until our last search in October 2024. The research question is no longer a priority for decision-making, new studies are less frequently published, and research that might impact the conclusions of the review is no longer emerging.

FUNDING: The European Commission, Belgium SUPorting high quality evaluation of COVID-19 convalescent plasma thrOughouT Europe (SUPPORT-E, grant number 101015756) supported this review.

REGISTRATION: Protocol registered with the Center for Open Science on 17 April 2020 (DOI: 10.17605/OSF.IO/DWF53). Access the 2023 version of this review here: DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD013600.pub6.},
}

Humans
*COVID-19/therapy/mortality
Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
COVID-19 Serotherapy
*Immunization, Passive/methods/adverse effects
SARS-CoV-2
Bias
Quality of Life
Cause of Death
Pandemics
Hospitalization/statistics & numerical data

@article {pmid42117901,
year = {2026},
author = {Scaglione, F and Ciprandi, G},
title = {Corticosteroids or NSAIDs in Managing Acute Respiratory Infections: Valuable Differences.},
journal = {Journal of immunology research},
volume = {2026},
number = {1},
pages = {e9991040},
doi = {10.1155/jimr/9991040},
pmid = {42117901},
issn = {2314-7156},
mesh = {Humans ; *Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use ; *Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; *Respiratory Tract Infections/drug therapy ; COVID-19 Drug Treatment ; *SARS-CoV-2/physiology ; COVID-19 ; Oxidative Stress/drug effects ; Acute Disease ; },
abstract = {Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for respiratory infections. These drugs work by blocking two enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2, which regulate the production of prostaglandins, mediators involved in pain, fever, and inflammation. Corticosteroids (CSs) are commonly used in outpatient settings for anti-inflammatory purposes in the treatment of infectious diseases. However, their potential side effects, such as immunosuppression and increased metabolism, can be overlooked, even at low doses. Their use is clearly defined for severe conditions. Other infections, such as community-acquired pneumonia, pharyngotonsillitis, or otitis, do not have supportive data for the use of systemic CSs. For COVID-19, CSs are beneficial for severe cases that require ventilation, while they may not be helpful in mild cases. Infection-induced inflammation is associated with oxidative stress, a condition that arises from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inadequate antioxidant responses. This stress worsens inflammatory reactions and can lead to severe respiratory infections and tissue damage. Managing oxidative stress is crucial in treating respiratory infections, and both CSs and NSAIDs can help reduce it. NSAIDs are preferred for treating symptoms such as fever and pain during the early phases of infections, especially viral ones, without hindering the immune response. CSs are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that are useful for treating infections in patients with asthma or allergies. However, CSs are not recommended for relieving pain and fever and can weaken the immune response. Both NSAIDs and steroids can mask serious infections, so doctors must be cautious in their use.},
}

Humans
*Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal/therapeutic use
*Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use
*Respiratory Tract Infections/drug therapy
COVID-19 Drug Treatment
*SARS-CoV-2/physiology
COVID-19
Oxidative Stress/drug effects
Acute Disease

@article {pmid42118190,
year = {2026},
author = {Ebell, M and Kurotschka, P},
title = {Effectiveness of Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir for Outpatients in the Era of Omicron, Vaccination, and Previous Infection: A Meta-analysis.},
journal = {Journal of general internal medicine},
volume = {},
number = {},
pages = {},
pmid = {42118190},
issn = {1525-1497},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Since the benefit of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (N-R) may have changed in contemporary patients, we assessed the effectiveness of N-R for preventing hospitalization and death among outpatients with COVID-19 in the Omicron era.

METHODS: This was a meta-analysis of cohort studies comparing rates of hospitalization and/or mortality in outpatients treated with N-R compared with untreated patients. Analysis was limited to studies conducted since December 2021 that performed an adjusted multivariate analysis. Quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Summary estimates of adjusted relative risks (aRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and prediction intervals (PI) were calculated overall and for prespecified subgroups. Heterogeneity was summarized visually and with τ and 95% PIs. Absolute effects were estimated by applying pooled aRRs to baseline risks to obtain absolute risk reductions (ARRs) and numbers needed to treat (NNTs).

RESULTS: Forty-seven studies (10,791,211 patients) were included. Pooled aRRs were 0.54 (95% CI, 0.43-0.68) for all-cause hospitalization and 0.45 (0.36-0.56) for COVID-19 hospitalization. Pooled RRs were 0.30 (0.23-0.39) for all-cause mortality and 0.43 (0.32-0.59) for COVID-19 mortality. PIs were < 1.0 for COVID-19 hospitalization (0.21-0.96), all-cause mortality (0.11-0.83), and any mortality (0.13-0.88), indicating likely benefit in future studies in similar settings. Subgroup analyses showed larger effects earlier in the Omicron period for hospitalization (RR 0.46 vs 0.68; p = 0.0049) and the composite outcome (0.45 vs 0.68; p = 0.0078), and a smaller mortality reduction among immunocompromised patients (RR 0.26 vs 0.11; p = 0.034). The estimated NNT to prevent a COVID-19 hospitalization for patients at low risk (0.16%), moderate risk (2.2%), and high risk (8.9%) of hospitalization based on a validated risk score were 1148, 84, and 20 respectively.

DISCUSSION: N-R is associated with reduced hospitalization and death. Absolute risk reductions of hospitalization are small in low-risk patients but clinically meaningful in moderate- and high-risk patients.},
}

@article {pmid42120165,
year = {2026},
author = {Lot, L and DePietro, R and Tosh, AK},
title = {Diagnosis and Management of Eating Disorders in Adolescents and Young Adults.},
journal = {Primary care},
volume = {53},
number = {2},
pages = {295-310},
doi = {10.1016/j.pop.2026.01.011},
pmid = {42120165},
issn = {1558-299X},
mesh = {Humans ; Adolescent ; *Feeding and Eating Disorders/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology ; Young Adult ; COVID-19/epidemiology ; United States/epidemiology ; Mass Screening ; Female ; Primary Health Care ; Anorexia Nervosa/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology ; SARS-CoV-2 ; },
abstract = {Eating disorders (EDs) are characterized by persistent disturbance of eating behavior that impairs health or psychosocial functioning. ED can persist for decades resulting in substantial burdens and psychosocial impairments. An increased prevalence of anorexia nervosa was noted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite a worsening trend in risky eating behavior among US college students, only 22% of colleges report offering year-round ED screening opportunities with 45% offering ED screenings once per year or semester. Furthermore, 20% or less of those who screened positive, received treatment.},
}

Humans
Adolescent
*Feeding and Eating Disorders/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology
Young Adult
COVID-19/epidemiology
United States/epidemiology
Mass Screening
Female
Primary Health Care
Anorexia Nervosa/diagnosis/therapy/epidemiology
SARS-CoV-2

@article {pmid37639261,
year = {2023},
author = {Spoelma, MJ and Sicouri, GL and Francis, DA and Songco, AD and Daniel, EK and Hudson, JL},
title = {Estimated Prevalence of Depressive Disorders in Children From 2004 to 2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.},
journal = {JAMA pediatrics},
volume = {177},
number = {10},
pages = {1017-1027},
pmid = {37639261},
issn = {2168-6211},
mesh = {Child ; Child, Preschool ; Female ; Humans ; Male ; Anxiety Disorders/epidemiology ; Major Depressive Disorder/epidemiology ; Prevalence ; *Depressive Disorder/epidemiology ; },
abstract = {IMPORTANCE: Depression during childhood (ie, age <13 years) poses a major health burden. Recent changes in environmental and lifestyle factors may increase children's risk of mental health problems. This has been reported for anxiety disorders, but it is unclear whether this occurs for depressive disorders.

OBJECTIVE: To provide prevalence estimates for the depressive disorders (ie, major depressive disorder [MDD], dysthymia, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder [DMDD], and overall) in children, and whether they have changed over time.

DATA SOURCES: The MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched using terms related to depressive disorders, children, and prevalence. This was supplemented by a systematic gray literature search.

STUDY SELECTION: Studies were required to provide population prevalence estimates of depressive disorder diagnoses (according to an established taxonomy and standardized interviews) for children younger than 13 years, information about participants' year of birth, and be published in English.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Data extraction was compliant with the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. A total of 12 985 nonduplicate records were retrieved, and 154 full texts were reviewed. Data were analyzed from 2004 (the upper limit of a previous review) to May 27, 2023. Multiple proportional random-effects meta-analytic and mixed-effects meta-regression models were fit.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: Pooled prevalence rates of depressive disorders, prevalence rate differences between males vs females and high-income countries (HICs) vs low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), and moderating effects of time or birth cohort.

RESULTS: A total of 41 studies were found to meet the inclusion criteria. Pooled prevalence estimates were obtained for 1.07% (95% CI, 0.62%-1.63%) for depressive disorders overall, 0.71% (95% CI, 0.48%-0.99%) for MDD, 0.30% (95% CI, 0.08%-0.62%) for dysthymia, and 1.60% (95% CI, 0.28%-3.90%) for DMDD. The meta-regressions found no significant evidence of an association with birth cohort, and prevalence rates did not differ significantly between males and females or between HICs and LMICs. There was a low risk of bias overall, except for DMDD, which was hindered by a lack of studies.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this systematic review and meta-analysis, depression in children was uncommon and did not increase substantially between 2004 and 2019. Future epidemiologic studies using standardized interviews will be necessary to determine whether this trend will continue into and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.},
}

Child
Child, Preschool
Female
Humans
Male
Anxiety Disorders/epidemiology
Major Depressive Disorder/epidemiology
Prevalence
*Depressive Disorder/epidemiology

@article {pmid38057105,
year = {2023},
author = {Georganta, I and Chasapi, D and Smith, CJ and Kopsidas, K and Tatham, A},
title = {Systematic review exploring the clinical features of optic neuritis after SARS-CoV infection and vaccination.},
journal = {BMJ open ophthalmology},
volume = {8},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {38057105},
issn = {2397-3269},
mesh = {Female ; Humans ; Male ; Autoantibodies ; *COVID-19/prevention & control ; Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein ; Oligoclonal Bands ; *Optic Neuritis/epidemiology ; Retrospective Studies ; Vaccination ; },
abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study aims to characterise the symptoms and clinical features of optic neuritis (ON) following SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination.

METHOD: A literature search was conducted in four databases (PubMed, Medline, Embase and Google Scholar) to identify relevant case reports and case series. The records were screened and articles adhering to the inclusion criteria were critically appraised.

RESULTS: Sixty-eight studies were found to be eligible for inclusion, including 34 reporting ON following SARS-CoV-2 infection and an equal number reporting cases postvaccination. In total 93 patients and 125 eyes were included. The infection cohort included 42 patients and 56 eyes, 51.2% were female and 33.3% experienced bilateral ON. The mean visual acuity was 1.64 log of minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR), while pain was present in 77.8%. Oligoclonal bands were present in 3 patients, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies in 18 patients and AQP-4 antibodies in 4 patients. The vaccination cohort included 51 patients and 69 eyes. 60.8% were female and 35.3% had a bilateral ON. The mean visual acuity was 0.93 LogMAR. Oligoclonal bands were present in 46.7%, MOG antibodies in nine patients and AQP-4 antibodies in three patients.

CONCLUSION: Patients with ON post-SARS-CoV infection were more likely to experience severe visual impairment than in cases following vaccination. Further research is required to outline the clinical features of ON after COVID-19 infection and vaccination, and establish causality.},
}

Female
Humans
Male
Autoantibodies
*COVID-19/prevention & control
Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein
Oligoclonal Bands
*Optic Neuritis/epidemiology
Retrospective Studies
Vaccination

@article {pmid42109487,
year = {2026},
author = {Hu, Y and Li, J and Zheng, Y and Cheng, Y and Li, W and Wang, X and Sun, Y},
title = {Epidemiology and clinical impact of pediatric RSV co-infections after the COVID-19 pandemic: a narrative review.},
journal = {Frontiers in pediatrics},
volume = {14},
number = {},
pages = {1787312},
pmid = {42109487},
issn = {2296-2360},
abstract = {The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic profoundly disrupted the global epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), leading to atypical off-season surges and altering infection dynamics across different climatic zones. This review synthesizes evidence on the landscape of pediatric RSV co-infections in this transformed post-pandemic context. RSV co-infection is frequent, with human rhinovirus (HRV) being the most common viral co-pathogen and Streptococcus pneumoniae (Spn) and Haemophilus influenzae (Hi) predominating as bacterial co-infections. Critically, these co-infections are significantly associated with heightened disease severity, including more intense clinical presentations, prolonged hospitalizations, increased intensive care unit (ICU) admission rates, and greater therapeutic complexity. The relaxation of non-pharmaceutical interventions has been linked to a rebound in co-infection rates. While advances in molecular diagnostics have improved detection, and new prophylactics like nirsevimab offer promise, significant challenges remain. These include gaps in understanding pathogenic synergies, inequities in access to novel interventions, and the need for strategies to manage the ongoing evolution of RSV epidemiology. This underscores the necessity for enhanced surveillance, equitable prevention, and targeted research to mitigate the substantial burden of pediatric RSV co-infections.},
}

@article {pmid42111388,
year = {2026},
author = {Bongiovanni, G and Polelli, V and Stainer, A and Russo, M and Gatti, R and Aliberti, S and Amati, F},
title = {Home-based rehabilitation in interstitial lung disease: picturing the present and drawing the future through a systematic review of the literature.},
journal = {ERJ open research},
volume = {12},
number = {2},
pages = {},
pmid = {42111388},
issn = {2312-0541},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Rehabilitation represents a key nonpharmacological treatment for patients with interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). As a consequence of improvement in technologies and social distancing in the SARS-CoV-2 era, a growing body of evidence demonstrated the effectiveness of tele-rehabilitation programmes for chronic respiratory diseases.

METHODS: We conducted a systematic review to identify randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on tele-rehabilitation in ILD and extended the search to ongoing trials.

RESULTS: Throughout our research, we identified four RCTs describing home rehabilitation in ILD. All RCTs were heterogenous small trials. Thus, a meta-analysis could not be performed, and data were reported in a descriptive way. The primary outcomes of the RCTs analysed included both physical and functional measures. We also identified through ClinicalTrials.gov four ongoing clinical trials investigating pulmonary rehabilitation in ILD with a considerable degree of heterogeneity regarding the populations included. In our systematic review, we also highlighted the key pillars for future trials in the field.

CONCLUSION: Potential treatment trajectories on outcomes of ILD patients related to the implementation of tele-rehabilitation are also discussed.},
}

@article {pmid42111593,
year = {2026},
author = {Zhao, J and Wang, J and Jiang, L and Li, F and Ji, L and Jin, H},
title = {Pandemic fatigue and associated factors: a meta-analysis using the COM-B model.},
journal = {Frontiers in psychology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1765375},
pmid = {42111593},
issn = {1664-1078},
abstract = {BACKGROUND: Pandemic fatigue during the prolonged COVID-19 crisis undermines sustained engagement with protective measures and public health messaging. Existing studies provide heterogeneous prevalence estimates and disparate lists of correlates but lack a unified, theory-driven synthesis.

METHODS: Searches were conducted in six databases up until March 2026. This study synthesized the prevalence of pandemic fatigue and factors associated with it during COVID-19 using the COM-B model and TDF theory.

RESULTS: Twenty-three cross-sectional studies (n = 49,285) were included. The pooled prevalence of pandemic fatigue was 51% (95%CI: 0.38, 0.65), with substantial heterogeneity. Health literacy (Capability) was inversely associated with fatigue (β = -0.257, 95%CI: -0.404, -0.110). Opportunity-related stressors-including bereavement due to COVID-19 (β = 0.281, 95%CI: 0.124, 0.437), daily troubles (β = 0.296, 95%CI:0.211, 0.380), and working student status (β = 0.232, 95%CI: 0.122, 0.341)-were positively associated with pandemic fatigue. Motivation-related factors showed mixed associations, whereas negative emotional states were associated with higher odds of pandemic fatigue.

CONCLUSION: Pandemic fatigue is common and was associated with diverse capability-, opportunity-, and motivation-related factors. A COM-B-informed interpretation suggests multi-level strategies that combine skills building, supportive environments, and psychosocial support.},
}

@article {pmid42112438,
year = {2026},
author = {Liu, Y and Zhang, Y and Liang, L and Zhang, H and Zhang, T and Rong, X and Tan, J and Mi, Y},
title = {Engineering strategies and decision frameworks for virus-like particle-based vaccines against infectious diseases.},
journal = {Frontiers in microbiology},
volume = {17},
number = {},
pages = {1795711},
pmid = {42112438},
issn = {1664-302X},
abstract = {Virus-like particles (VLPs) have emerged as a versatile and clinically validated platform for developing safe, effective vaccines against infectious diseases. However, the expanding toolkit of VLP engineering strategies-spanning genetic fusion, modular conjugation, and nucleic acid encapsulation-creates a critical need for a rational selection framework to match technological strengths with specific vaccine objectives. This review addresses this gap by constructing a comparative decision-making framework centered on four core engineering dimensions: cargo flexibility, loading specificity, functional efficiency, and manufacturability. We systematically juxtapose two principal technology streams: (1) the display of protein antigens (through genetic, chemical, and bio-conjugation) and (2) the encapsulation of nucleic acid cargo (via physical, electrostatic, and programmable packaging mechanisms), evaluating each within this unified framework. This technological dissection is directly linked to the development landscape of VLP-based vaccines against major pathogens-including HBV, HPV, malaria, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2-illustrating how strategic choices at the engineering level fundamentally underpin immunogenic potency and translational success. By sequentially considering immunological objectives, antigen compatibility, surface display modality, interior cargo integration, and manufacturing constraints, this framework facilitates rational, stepwise VLP vaccine design. Looking forward, we discuss emerging trends toward modular and computationally guided platforms for antigen placement and scaffold design. By integrating a structured technology assessment with translational insights, this review aims to provide a practical roadmap for the rational design and accelerated development of next-generation, broadly protective VLP-based vaccines.},
}

@article {pmid42113367,
year = {2026},
author = {Shukla, S and Sharma, MP and Rashmi, R and Misra, G},
title = {Long non-coding RNAs as modulators of endocrine therapy response in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.},
journal = {Molecular biology reports},
volume = {53},
number = {1},
pages = {},
pmid = {42113367},
issn = {1573-4978},
mesh = {Humans ; *Breast Neoplasms/genetics/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology ; *RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics/metabolism ; Female ; Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics ; Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism/genetics ; Tumor Microenvironment/genetics/drug effects ; Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal/therapeutic use/pharmacology ; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects ; Signal Transduction/drug effects ; },
abstract = {Breast cancer is a major cause of cancer-related mortality among women, with hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer accounting for 70-80% of diagnosed cases. The current treatment approaches include both endocrine monotherapy and combinational strategies incorporating targeted signaling pathway inhibitors. Despite recent therapeutic advances that have significantly improved patient outcomes, the development of resistance to endocrine therapies leads to relapses and treatment failure. Emerging evidence has shown that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are therapeutic modulators; however, their involvement in clinical studies has not been much explored. In HR+ breast cancer, lncRNAs influence both sensitivity and resistance to endocrine therapy by modulating estrogen receptor (ER) function, switching between alternative survival pathways, and altering tumor epigenetics and tumor microenvironment. The major focus of this comprehensive review is to understand the role of lncRNAs in overcoming the endocrine resistance issues in the treatment of HR+ breast cancer. It presents a comprehensive approach focused on endocrine therapy mechanisms, resistance, and adaptive escape pathways of HR+ tumor cells. By mapping these mechanisms of endocrine therapy, the review reveals novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of HR+ breast cancer. Lastly, it highlights the specialized lncRNA-based therapeutics for bone metastatic niches in HR+ breast cancer and current approaches of therapeutic targeting of lncRNAs for disease treatment.},
}

Humans
*Breast Neoplasms/genetics/drug therapy/metabolism/pathology
*RNA, Long Noncoding/genetics/metabolism
Female
Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/genetics
Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism/genetics
Tumor Microenvironment/genetics/drug effects
Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal/therapeutic use/pharmacology
Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
Signal Transduction/drug effects