picture
RJR-logo

About | BLOGS | Portfolio | Misc | Recommended | What's New | What's Hot

About | BLOGS | Portfolio | Misc | Recommended | What's New | What's Hot

icon

Bibliography Options Menu

icon
QUERY RUN:
19 Feb 2026 at 01:44
HITS:
60543
PAGE OPTIONS:
Hide Abstracts   |   Hide Additional Links
NOTE:
Long bibliographies are displayed in blocks of 100 citations at a time. At the end of each block there is an option to load the next block.

Bibliography on: covid-19

RJR-3x

Robert J. Robbins is a biologist, an educator, a science administrator, a publisher, an information technologist, and an IT leader and manager who specializes in advancing biomedical knowledge and supporting education through the application of information technology. More About:  RJR | OUR TEAM | OUR SERVICES | THIS WEBSITE

RJR: Recommended Bibliography 19 Feb 2026 at 01:44 Created: 

covid-19

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2), a virus closely related to the SARS virus. The disease was discovered and named during the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak. Those affected may develop a fever, dry cough, fatigue, and shortness of breath. A sore throat, runny nose or sneezing is less common. While the majority of cases result in mild symptoms, some can progress to pneumonia and multi-organ failure. The infection is spread from one person to others via respiratory droplets produced from the airways, often during coughing or sneezing. Time from exposure to onset of symptoms is generally between 2 and 14 days, with an average of 5 days. The standard method of diagnosis is by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) from a nasopharyngeal swab or sputum sample, with results within a few hours to 2 days. Antibody assays can also be used, using a blood serum sample, with results within a few days. The infection can also be diagnosed from a combination of symptoms, risk factors and a chest CT scan showing features of pneumonia. Correct handwashing technique, maintaining distance from people who are coughing and not touching one's face with unwashed hands are measures recommended to prevent the disease. It is also recommended to cover one's nose and mouth with a tissue or a bent elbow when coughing. Those who suspect they carry the virus are recommended to wear a surgical face mask and seek medical advice by calling a doctor rather than visiting a clinic in person. Masks are also recommended for those who are taking care of someone with a suspected infection but not for the general public. There is no vaccine or specific antiviral treatment, with management involving treatment of symptoms, supportive care and experimental measures. The case fatality rate is estimated at between 1% and 3%. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). As of 29 February 2020, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Italy, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and the United States are areas having evidence of community transmission of the disease.

Created with PubMed® Query: ( SARS-CoV-2 OR COVID-19 OR (wuhan AND coronavirus) AND review[SB] )NOT 40982904[pmid] NOT 40982965[pmid] NOT 35908569[pmid] NOT pmcbook NOT ispreviousversion

Citations The Papers (from PubMed®)

-->

RevDate: 2026-02-18
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Badran EF, Rayyan A, Al Jaberi M, et al (2025)

Infectious disease burden and surveillance challenges in Jordan and Palestine: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Frontiers in digital health, 7:1713089.

BACKGROUND: Jordan and Palestine face public health challenges due to infectious diseases, with the added detrimental factors of long-term conflict, forced relocation, and lack of resources. Added to these are the increased rates of morbidity and mortality from having limited healthcare services available due to a lack of funding, poor disease surveillance systems, and entrenched systemic weaknesses. The purpose of this systematic review was to report the prevalence of infectious diseases in Jordan and Palestine in order to inform the development of targeted public health programs that use both standard and novel approaches to reduce the region's disease burden.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-18
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Nguyen Hai C (2026)

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis in the post-COVID-19 era: diagnosis, treatment, and what lies ahead.

Therapeutic advances in infectious disease, 13:20499361251406189.

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

RevDate: 2026-02-17
CmpDate: 2026-02-17

Arya P, Brooks KA, Cross A, et al (2026)

Early Outcomes of Cochlear Implantation for Pediatric COVID-19 Related Single Sided Deafness: Case Series and Literature Review.

The Annals of otology, rhinology, and laryngology, 135(3):212-216.

OBJECTIVE: Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a rare manifestation of COVID-19. Cochlear implantation (CI) has been reported for definitive management of COVID-19 related single sided deafness (SSD) in adults. We present the first cases of pediatric CI for presumed COVID-19 related SSD.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-17
CmpDate: 2026-02-17

Acuña-Muñoz MJ, Carvajal-Trujillo E, Orts-Cardador JJ, et al (2026)

A five-decade review of academic research on healthcare supply chain: a bibliometric approach using co-word analysis and bibliographic coupling.

International journal of health care quality assurance, 39(1):1-21.

PURPOSE: This paper analysed the impact and evolution of scientific research on the healthcare supply chain (HCS) from a longitudinal perspective, covering the period 1971-2024. The study used data from the Web of Science and Scopus databases to identify emerging and established areas of study in the field of HCS.

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-17
CmpDate: 2026-02-17

Spurway C, Williams I, Ayinde OC, et al (2026)

Remote consultations in sexual and reproductive health services: a systematic review of evidence on effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, experiences, access and equity.

Sexually transmitted infections, 102(2):109-122 pii:sextrans-2024-056458.

OBJECTIVES: Timely access to sexual health screening and contraception is an important public health issue. Substantial funding reductions for sexual and reproductive health services (SRHS) and COVID-19 have led to significant changes in service delivery, including the rapid introduction of remote consultations, as a substitute for in-person contact. There is limited evidence relating to the barriers to remote consultations and how these may impact sexual health outcomes and wider health inequalities. This study synthesises existing evidence on remote consultations to examine effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, experiences, access and equity.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-18
CmpDate: 2026-02-18

Paliwal S, Agarwal U, RK Tonk (2025)

Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors: A Versatile Therapeutic Approach for Cancer, Autoimmune Disorders, GVHD and COVID-19.

Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry, 25(20):1555-1587.

Recent trends have shown the development of various medicinally important compounds that specifically target B-cell receptor (BCR) pathways at various segments that have a major role in Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) receptor, which belongs to the family of kinases. These kinases are usually situated close to the cell membrane due to which they participate in upstream processing of BCR signalling. Various molecules have been potentialized to target these signalling pathways of these kinase receptors in order to achieve a pharmacological effect. Given the central role of BTK in immunity, BTK inhibition represents a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of multiple diseases. BTK inhibitors work by regulating B-cell receptor signalling along with inflammatory pathways and immune cell interactions, offering more advanced treatment options compared to traditional therapies. In addition to BTK inhibitors, an extensive knowledge of the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the blockage of these receptors is necessary in order to more accurately forecast when and where a patient could need combination therapy or just one medication. Efforts have been made to facilitate translational discoveries, drug re-purposing concepts, and further development of precision medicine products. This thorough literature study has focused on studies published until June 2025.

RevDate: 2026-02-18
CmpDate: 2026-02-18

Palacios-Cruz M, Castellar-Lopez J, Pretelt JM, et al (2025)

The Counter-Regulatory Renin-Angiotensin System: A Surprising Ally in the Field of COVID-19.

Infectious disorders drug targets, 25(7):e18715265352715.

INTRODUCTION: Over the past four years, SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 have become global health crises, spurring extensive research on virus behavior, complications, and treatments. The virus interacts with a component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), altering inflammatory, hypertrophic, and hemodynamic responses via binding to ACE2 found in organs like the heart, lungs, and kidneys.

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

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-18
CmpDate: 2026-02-18

Cavasin D, Zanini U, Montelisciani L, et al (2025)

The impact of COVID-19 infection on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Monaldi archives for chest disease = Archivio Monaldi per le malattie del torace, 95(4):.

COVID-19 has a negative impact on the survival of respiratory patients, especially those with interstitial lung disease. This review aims to better understand the effect of COVID-19 on patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). A systematic search of MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus performed from December 2019 up to July 2024 identified relevant studies. Eligibility criteria included English language, sample size ≥10 patients, COVID-19 infection, and outcome measures. Two independent reviewers assessed studies using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for bias and extracted data. Meta-analysis employed a random-effects model, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation assessed evidence quality. Outcomes considered were hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, and mortality. Of the 1541 initially identified articles, 6 high-quality studies were included. Meta-analysis revealed a 34% mortality rate [95% confidence interval (CI): 21-48%], 36% hospitalization rate (95% CI: 10-75%), and 31% intensive care unit admission rate (95% CI: 7-71%) among IPF patients with COVID-19. The certainty of evidence was low or very low due to publication bias and heterogeneity. This study underscores the elevated risk of hospitalization and death in IPF patients with COVID-19, emphasizing the vulnerability of this population. Prompt and tailored care is crucial to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on IPF patients, necessitating proactive measures, vaccination, and comprehensive management.

RevDate: 2026-02-17
CmpDate: 2026-02-17

Björk J, Rasmussen G, Johansson S, et al (2026)

Non-pharmaceutical interventions to prevent community transmission of infectious diseases with pandemic potential-an umbrella review and evidence map.

European journal of public health, 36(1):200-207.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, most countries implemented non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to mitigate virus transmission and decrease morbidity and mortality. The aim of this umbrella review was to identify and map systematic reviews on the effectiveness of NPIs to reduce widespread community transmission of infectious diseases with pandemic potential. We searched electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Scopus, INAHTA [International Network of Agencies for Health Technology Asseesment], and World Health Organization COVID-19) and websites (January 2024). Systematic reviews on NPIs during outbreaks, epidemics, or pandemics of COVID-19, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), influenza, or Ebola were included and organized in an interactive evidence map grouped by type of intervention (individual/population/environmental), disease, risk of bias, and search date. Five of the 132 included reviews were assessed as having low, 43 moderate, and 84 high risk of bias. COVID-19 was targeted in 100 reviews, influenza 66, SARS 39, MERS 34, and Ebola in five reviews. The most frequently investigated NPIs were use of face masks, hand washing, physical distancing, travel restrictions, restrictions on public gatherings, and school closures. The five reviews at low risk of bias concluded at low level of evidence about the effectiveness of most NPIs, with exceptions of hand hygiene and some measures in school settings where low- to moderate-certainty evidence was found. There is substantial lack of evidence regarding the effectiveness of several commonly used NPIs, including restrictions on public gatherings, travel restrictions, and visiting restrictions in long-term care facilities. There is a paucity not only of systematic reviews but also of primary studies at low risk of bias.

RevDate: 2026-02-17
CmpDate: 2026-02-17

Cotter TG, Anouti A, VanWagner LB, et al (2026)

Early liver transplantation in alcohol-associated liver disease-Evolution of practice, patient selection, management, and outcomes.

Liver transplantation : official publication of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases and the International Liver Transplantation Society, 32(3):428-443.

Early liver transplantation (eLT) for alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), defined as transplantation with less than 6 months of alcohol abstinence, has emerged as a standard intervention for carefully selected patients unresponsive to medical therapy. Rising ALD prevalence, driven by increased alcohol use, particularly among patients in early adulthood, and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to an increased demand for eLT for ALD. Recent studies have demonstrated that eLT can yield survival outcomes comparable to standard liver transplantation, although patient selection remains challenging, with return to drinking (RTD) after transplant a primary concern. Various psychosocial evaluation tools can help identify candidates at lower risk for RTD, but predictive accuracy remains limited due to the complex, individualized nature of alcohol use disorder among ALD patients. Multidisciplinary approaches to managing alcohol use disorder, such as integrated care models, are increasingly being adopted to improve outcomes and achieve sustained alcohol abstinence after transplant. Despite the recent increase in eLT for ALD, international practices vary widely, with countries like the United States, France, and Belgium leading in adoption, whereas others still impose strict sobriety requirements. Notably, racial, ethnic, and geographic disparities in access to eLT for ALD have emerged, highlighting the need for more standardized and equitable practices. This review traces the development and expansion of eLT in ALD, addressing selection and management challenges, while proposing a biopsychosocial framework to optimize patient and graft outcomes across the liver transplantation continuum.

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

de Araújo AB, S Azul FVC, Carneiro YC, et al (2026)

Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, and COVID-19: Microglia-Neutrophil Interaction.

ACS omega, 11(5):6922-6938.

Abnormal activation of the immune system and oxidative stress are crucial factors in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease. Microglia, neutrophils, oxidative stress mediators such as reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation products (e.g., malondialdehyde), and nitrosative stress markers (e.g., nitrite and nitrate) play important roles in neuroinflammatory mechanisms. Microglial cells acquire a proinflammatory phenotype through interactions with endogenous or exogenous compounds, including cell debris, abnormally modified proteins (including Aβ species and alpha-synuclein), and pathogens (e.g., SARS-CoV-2). They produce many inflammatory mediators and promote the activation of adjacent brain cells and leukocyte infiltration, including polymorphonuclear neutrophils. Accumulation of neutrophils in the central nervous system (CNS) leads to the secretion of more proinflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, proteases, and oxidants, and the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). These processes are associated with the pathological activation of microglial cells, cell death, consequent influence on neuronal functions, or even neuronal death, which is a hallmark of CNS disorders. In this review, we address the importance of inflammatory mechanisms and oxidative stress in the CNS associated with Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and the neuronal effects observed in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), as observed by the abnormal activation of central and peripheral immune cells, such as microglia and neutrophils. We also discuss emerging evidence linking SARS-CoV-2 infection to neuroinflammatory mechanisms that could contribute to neurodegenerative complications.

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Rezaei Z, Khorraminia A, Shi D, et al (2026)

Network-based artificial intelligence in mental healthcare: A systematic review of chatbots, artificial intelligence/machine learning models and ethical considerations in global healthcare networks.

Digital health, 12:20552076261421688.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review examines how artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) models and AI-powered chatbots, contributes to the diagnosis, treatment and ethical governance of mental healthcare. It explores how AI-driven systems form interconnected healthcare networks that enhance accessibility, personalization and resilience of mental health services, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Hanifian H, M Nateghpour (2026)

Iran's Journey Through Malaria: From Past Challenges to Future Elimination-A Narrative Review.

Journal of tropical medicine, 2026:4251955.

BACKGROUND: Malaria remains a persistent public health concern in Iran, particularly in southeastern regions bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan. Despite substantial progress over recent decades, challenges such as cross-border transmission, insecticide resistance, and health system disruptions continue to threaten elimination goals.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Ince I, Sposito F, Charras A, et al (2026)

How loss-of-function mutations in IFIH1 contribute to infectious and/or inflammatory disease - a systematic review.

Journal of translational autoimmunity, 12:100353.

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

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Chatzidou P, Stratos A, Chint M, et al (2026)

Denture-Associated Candidiasis and Mucormycosis in Post-COVID-19 Older Adults Managed Through an Integrated Prosthodontic and Infectious Disease Approach: A Narrative Review.

Cureus, 18(2):e103448.

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

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Deane-King J, Howell J, R Maguire (2026)

Experiences of Individuals With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Their Caregivers During the Pandemic: A Systematic Review.

Nursing open, 13(2):e70462.

AIM: To explore the experiences of individuals with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (IwCOPD) and their caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-14

Ortiz-Tallo A, Izquierdo A, Calvo A, et al (2026)

A systematic review of the bidirectional relationship between psychosis and loneliness.

Journal of psychiatric research, 196:115-122 pii:S0022-3956(26)00091-9 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: and hypothesis: Loneliness, defined as a subjective feeling of isolation, has been significantly correlated with psychotic experiences in general and clinical populations, although less is known about the direction of this relationship. This paper aims to systematically review the longitudinal relationship between loneliness and psychosis spectrum continuum, addressing two fundamental questions: (1) is loneliness a risk factor for the development of psychosis, and (2) does psychosis increase the risk of experiencing loneliness?

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-14

Coker KL, EL Morgan (2026)

High-Risk HPV in Men: A Hidden Threat to Public Health?.

Reviews in medical virology, 36(2):e70115.

High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection is a leading cause of several cancers, including those of the genital and oropharyngeal regions. While public health efforts have largely focused on women due to its link to cervical cancer, HPV also poses significant risks to men, particularly in the oropharyngeal regions. HR-HPV prevalence in men is high, with global estimates of 21% for male genital infections. While the HPV vaccination programme has expanded to include boys, challenges remain, including a decline in vaccine uptake due to COVID-19 disruptions, vaccine hesitancy, and misinformation. These barriers hinder the full potential of vaccination efforts. Furthermore, HPV transmission is complex and multifactorial, making it difficult to track, while its prevalence, clearance, and persistence vary based on factors such as sexual behaviour and immune status. Additionally, data from lower socio-economic regions is limited, highlighting a critical gap in research. Specific data on these epidemiological characteristics for male patients is lacking, prompting the need for gender-balanced approaches. Here, we explore the prevalence, risks, and public health implications of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) in men. We suggest a more inclusive approach to HPV prevention, emphasising the need for targeted vaccination and screening programs for men. A gender-neutral approach is crucial to reducing the global burden of HPV-related diseases and moving closer to the goal of eradicating HPV infections worldwide.

RevDate: 2026-02-14

Pereira-Dias F, MB de Espíndola (2026)

Integrating Digital Technologies Into Biochemistry Education: A Decade of Efforts, Pandemic Impacts, and Emerging Insights.

Biochemistry and molecular biology education : a bimonthly publication of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology [Epub ahead of print].

This review critically examines the integration of Digital Information and Communication Technologies (TDICs) in biochemistry education over the past decade, highlighting both the benefits and challenges from a critical theoretical perspective. A systematic review was conducted to identify relevant literature, followed by thematic analysis and a detailed synthesis of the findings. Grounded in Feenberg's critical theory of technology and Selwyn's scholarship on education and digital technology, this review examines the implications of virtual laboratories, augmented reality, gamification, and online platforms in biochemistry education, as well as their implications related to the pandemic. We observed that digital technologies can enhance certain aspects of student engagement and learning outcomes; however, they can also hinder equitable access and hands-on laboratory skills. This review also highlights the key elements of critical reflection on the socio-political and ethical implications of digital technologies in biochemistry education, with a particular focus on pandemic-era concerns, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the commercialization of teaching practices. Future research should focus on these dimensions to ensure that technological advancements do not perpetuate or amplify educational inequities.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Le Bui N, Nguyen KL, Phan Van B, et al (2026)

Cell-free systems for vaccine production.

Progress in molecular biology and translational science, 219:93-106.

Cell-free (CF) systems is harness cellular components including tRNAs, ribosomes, and polymerase to synthesize proteins in vitro. Owing to their significant CF systems offer substantial advantages over traditional cell-based systems, including higher speed, biosafety, and portability. As a result, CF systems have emerged as a powerful platform for biomedical research, with particularly promising applications in biosensing and diagnostics, protein production, synthetic biology and vaccine development. In this chapter, we provided a comprehensive overview of CF system applications in the field of biomedical sciences, with an emphasis on vaccine development and production. We also discussed their successful applications in the expression of antigens from challenging pathogens, such as Plasmodium falciparum, Chlamydia muridarum, and SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, this chapter proposed several promising innovations to address current limitations of CF platforms such as the shortage of post-translational modifications, endotoxin presence, and high production cost. Emerging solutions include glycoengineering to introduce functional glycosylation, freeze-drying for improving storage and distribution, exosome-based delivery for designing next generation vaccines, and even machine learning integration, to optimize the production pipelines.

RevDate: 2026-02-15

Milligan T, Nair R, Cowansage K, et al (2026)

Mental health risk factors for psychological disorders after COVID-19 infection: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Journal of affective disorders, 402:121377 pii:S0165-0327(26)00228-4 [Epub ahead of print].

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic was a time of uncertainty and rapid change that has had demonstrable effects on the mental health of those who experienced it. For individuals who contracted the illness, some types of risk factors for adverse mental health post-COVID have been examined (e.g., demographics), but how pre-COVID psychiatric risk factors may have contributed to worsened outcomes has not been systematically evaluated. This systematic review and meta-analysis examines mental health risk factors (e.g., general psychiatric history, trauma history) for depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and adjustment disorder in individuals after resolution of acute COVID-19 infection. We searched three databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, Scopus) and included 27 studies (15 cohort, 12 cross-sectional). Studies were dually extracted and assessed for quality. We conducted meta-analyses by study design and outcome for the risk factor of a general psychiatric history. Medium-to-large effect sizes were found for psychiatric history on post-COVID infection depression, anxiety, and PTSD. No studies examined adjustment disorder as an outcome. Studies of mental health risk factors that could not be incorporated into the meta-analyses (e.g., history of trauma) showed small-to-large effect sizes on post-COVID mental health. These results consistently show that mental health factors predict worse psychological health after acute COVID-19 infection. More robust study designs would improve this body of research.

RevDate: 2026-02-16
CmpDate: 2026-02-16

Mueller H, Corless IB, Bell JG, et al (2026)

Supporting the Bereaved in the COVID-19 Era: A Scoping Review of Interventions.

Omega, 92(4):1882-1902.

People whose family member(s) friend(s) have died from COVID-19 or other causes have been deeply affected by the physical and social restrictions imposed during the pandemic. These limitations have affected end-of-life care and support for the bereaved. The purpose of this review is to identify: the published studies of evaluated programs about interventions for people who have experienced bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to develop recommendations for researchers and policy makers. Using scoping review methodology, a literature review was undertaken for articles published from January 1, 2020 through February 28, 2023 to identify interventions shown to be beneficial to people who have experienced the death of loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. The search yielded 1588 articles of which three studies met the criteria of utilizing a pre and post-test design with only one of these, a randomized controlled trial. The interventions included in this review demonstrate preliminary efficacy.

RevDate: 2026-02-15
CmpDate: 2026-02-15

Farmer MS, Herbert D, Torrisi C, et al (2026)

Digital equity in nursing research: A methodological review of nursing studies requiring internet connection.

Nursing outlook, 74(1):102667.

BACKGROUND: Shifting external factors, including public health emergencies and changes in funding, can prompt nurse scientists to modify study protocols, adopting internet-required methods for recruitment or data collection. Reliance on these methods could exclude populations, with significant implications for nursing, its science, practice, and policy. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic provides a temporal dividing point to assess the impact on these methodological decisions.

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-15
CmpDate: 2026-02-15

Kimura H, Beppu H, Kawanishi T, et al (2026)

Two-year Follow-up of IgA Nephropathy Patients Who Developed Gross Hematuria Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Series and Literature Review.

Internal medicine (Tokyo, Japan), 65(4):534-541.

Objective Recent reports have shown that patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) develop gross hematuria after COVID-19 vaccination. However, the two-year prognosis remains uncertain. Methods We conducted a retrospective review of 301 patients with IgAN at our institution to identify those who developed gross hematuria after COVID-19 vaccination. We evaluated the patients' baseline characteristics, clinical courses, and changes in the renal function, proteinuria, and hematuria for two years post-vaccination. In addition, we conducted a systematic literature review of 16 case studies, with 28 cases and 5 cohort studies. Results Gross hematuria was observed in eight patients after vaccination. Their mean age was 42.9 years, and 87.5% were women. All patients relapsed or did not achieve clinical remission prior to vaccination. The median time to gross hematuria onset was 1.6 days, resolving within 3 days. The mean baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 69.4 mL/min/1.73 m[2], the urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) was 0.23 g/gCr, and the median baseline hematuria was 10-19 red blood cells (RBCs)/high-power field (HPF). One month after vaccination, the eGFR decreased by 8.6 mL/min/1.73 m[2] (-12.3%), the UPCR increased by 0.64 g/gCr, and hematuria increased to 50-99 RBCs/HPF. By 6 months, the eGFR and UPCR had recovered, with median hematuria decreasing to 5-9 RBCs/HPF and stabilizing by 24 months. Conclusion We revealed the extended prognosis of gross hematuria in patients with IgAN following COVID-19 vaccination. With appropriate follow-up, temporary renal deterioration improved within six months and remained stable for two years. These findings support the safety of the COVID-19 vaccination in this vulnerable population.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Su K, Qiu J, Xu T, et al (2026)

Artificial intelligence-guided design of lipid nanoparticles for mRNA delivery.

Acta pharmaceutica Sinica. B, 16(2):709-727.

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) hold significant potential for mRNA-based therapeutics, as evidenced by their successful use in SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines. LNPs effectively protect and transport mRNA to target sites, thereby ensuring its stability and efficient transfection. Despite the progress, some challenges remain in the development of mRNA-LNP delivery systems, such as limited targeting specificity, the complexity of formulations, and the time-consuming and high-throughput screening process. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a powerful tool to address these challenges, accelerating the design and optimization process of LNPs. AI-guided approaches can improve the efficiency of lipid structure and formulation screening by rapidly identifying key design parameters and employing predictive modeling to optimize LNP properties. The combination of AI and LNP technology offers significant advantages, including enabling the design of more personalized and precise delivery systems, streamlining the development process, and reducing the cost. This review discusses recent advancements in AI-guided mRNA-LNP delivery systems and highlights their potential to revolutionize mRNA therapeutics.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Gabunia L, Khetsuriani S, Gamkrelidze N, et al (2026)

Pathogenesis and Pharmacotherapy of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Induced by Pandemic Viral Infections: A Narrative Review.

Cureus, 18(1):e101316.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe, life-threatening condition characterized by acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema caused by increased alveolar-capillary permeability. ARDS is highly heterogeneous, with diverse etiologies and clinical presentations that complicate diagnosis and management. Viral infections, including influenza A (H1N1 and H5N1) and coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2, are major contributors to ARDS and can trigger severe lung injury, hyperinflammation, and dysregulated immune responses. Ongoing viral evolution and periodic emergence of novel strains continue to pose a substantial threat to global public health. This narrative review analyzes pandemic-associated viral causes of ARDS, summarizes key mechanisms of pathogenesis, and evaluates current and emerging pharmacotherapeutic approaches. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, supplemented by additional sources where appropriate. The review highlights that the increasing prominence of viral pneumonia as a cause of ARDS requires both established supportive care and tailored therapeutic strategies that target the underlying mechanisms of lung injury. Despite progress, virus-associated ARDS remains a major clinical challenge with high morbidity and mortality and may require management approaches distinct from those used for other ARDS etiologies.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Phanphairoj K, Wisesrith W, S Chumwichan (2026)

Mapping research trends and competency domains in nursing-related digital and artificial intelligence technologies: A bibliometric analysis.

International journal of nursing sciences, 13(1):36-44.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the research trends, thematic structures, and core competency domains in the field of nursing-related digital and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Oh H, Thi Thuy Tien V, Ahmed S, et al (2026)

Host Glycan-Lectin Interplay in SARS-CoV-2 Infection.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(3):.

Glycan-mediated processes can be critical determinants of viral attachment and entry, yet for enveloped RNA viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, their mechanistic roles remain incompletely defined. This review synthesizes current structural and functional evidence for glycan engagement during SARS-CoV-2 attachment and entry. We describe the general viral entry pathways and their reliance on glycan recognition, followed by the interactions of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein with host glycans, including ABO(H) blood group antigens, sialylated glycans, and endogenous lectins. Based on structural biology, glycobiology, and virology, we focus on how the spike protein exploits both glycan motifs and lectin receptors to enhance attachment, promote cellular uptake, or modulate host tropism. We contextualize these mechanisms by comparing glycan dependencies across other human viruses, including the influenza virus, HIV, and norovirus. Finally, we provide a comparative virological perspective to derive broad evolutionary insights into how enveloped viruses exploit the host glycans.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Chen JJ, Hsu CW, Wang HY, et al (2026)

Audiovestibular Dysfunction Related to Long COVID-19 Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Characteristics, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(3):.

Long COVID-19 syndrome (or so-called post-COVID-19) is indicated by miscellaneous symptoms, usually starting 3 months from the COVID-19 infection and lasting for at least 2 months, which cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. There has been more and more reports addressing the audiovestibular dysfunction related to long COVID-19 syndrome. Emerging evidence suggests that the linkage between audiovestibular dysfunction and long COVID-19 syndrome might rely on (a) direct inner ear system damage related to viral invasion and consequent inflammation, (b) micro thromboembolic events, which might result from the COVID-19-induced autoimmune reaction against endothelial cells, and consequent transient-ischemia and hypoxia of the auditory pathways, (c) the disturbed nerve conduction in vestibulocochlear nerves due to viral invasion, and finally (d) altered auditory cortex function, either imbalanced central gain or neurotransmitter disturbance. However, most of the aforementioned mechanism remained hypothetic and still needed further studies to approve or refute. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on the characteristics, pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, and management of audiovestibular dysfunction related to long COVID-19 syndrome. Literature searches across PubMed, Embase, ClinicalKey, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect (up to 15 December 2025) were conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Through this systematic review, we provided a schematic diagram of the physiopathology of long COVID-19 syndrome-related audiovestibular dysfunction. Further, we summarized the currently available diagnostic tools to explore the audiovestibular function in such patients. The currently available treatment, either pharmacotherapy or nonpharmacotherapy, mainly tackles idiopathic audiovestibular dysfunction but not specifically long COVID-19 syndrome-related audiovestibular dysfunction. Timely recognition and intervention may prevent progression to permanent hearing loss or vestibular disability, improving quality of life. Trial registration: PROSPERO CRD420251265741.

RevDate: 2026-02-14
CmpDate: 2026-02-14

Galletta MAK, Hashimoto AS, de Almeida Estrambk G, et al (2026)

Prevalence of postpartum depression in the COVID-19 pandemic and associated factors: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BMC pregnancy and childbirth, 26(1):157.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic created a disruptive scenario with an increase in the prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD) and new associated risk factors, which deserve to be better studied, in different global contexts, which led to the present systematic review study.

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

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

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

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

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

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Confalonieri P, Reccardini N, Kette S, et al (2026)

Complications Associated with Glucocorticoids Treatment in Critically Ill Patients.

Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine, 47(1):130-139.

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are essential immunomodulatory agents in the management of critically ill patients with severe systemic inflammation, particularly in conditions such as sepsis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and severe community-acquired pneumonia. When administered in low-to-intermediate doses for short durations (typically ≤4 weeks, including tapering), GCs have demonstrated substantial benefits in improving patient-centered outcomes, including reduced time on mechanical ventilation, shorter ICU stays, and lower mortality rates. However, the risk-benefit profile of GC therapy in critical illness differs markedly from long-term use in chronic inflammatory diseases and must be carefully evaluated. This study provides an evidence-based synthesis of the most relevant complications associated with the use of GCs in critically ill adults. Hyperglycemia is the most frequent metabolic effect, but it is typically transient and manageable with insulin, and is not associated with worse clinical outcomes. The risk of nosocomial infections has not been shown to increase significantly with appropriate dosing; in fact, immunomodulation by GCs may improve bacterial clearance. Nevertheless, clinicians should remain vigilant for opportunistic infections, particularly invasive fungal infections, in high-risk populations such as those with COVID-19. Musculoskeletal effects, including ICU-acquired weakness, appear to result more from underlying disease and immobilization than from GCs themselves, especially at moderate doses. Neuropsychiatric and gastrointestinal complications are dose-dependent and generally reversible. The transient suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis underscores the importance of gradual tapering to prevent inflammatory rebound and adrenal insufficiency. Overall, contemporary data support the safety of GCs when used with precision, directed by patient severity and response to treatment, with careful tapering and monitoring. The incorporation of integrative strategies, such as micronutrient and probiotic supplementation, may enhance GC receptor function and reduce required doses, further improving outcomes. Recognizing and managing potential complications enables clinicians to harness the therapeutic potential of GCs in critical illness fully.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Dequin PF, M Confalonieri (2026)

Glucocorticoid Treatment in Community-Acquired Pneumonia.

Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine, 47(1):66-76.

Despite a fairly large number of comparative trials (which are, however, very heterogeneous), the role of corticosteroids in the adjuvant treatment of community-acquired pneumonia remains controversial. Nevertheless, recent randomized trials with adequate power in intensive care unit patients, albeit with conflicting results, have contributed to clarifying our understanding of this issue. More accurate phenotyping of patients likely to benefit from corticosteroid treatment must now be performed. In COVID-19 pneumonia, their benefit is not in question. For certain specific pathogens, including viral pathogens, their indications must be refined. They are still not recommended for influenza. They appear generally safe for short-term use in select populations.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Poulain C, Bouras M, A Roquilly (2026)

Glucocorticoid Treatment for Hospital-Acquired and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia.

Seminars in respiratory and critical care medicine, 47(1):77-85.

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) and ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) remain among the most frequent complications in critically ill patients. Despite the implementation of modern preventive strategies and the widespread use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, both the incidence and treatment failure rates remain high. However, no adjunctive therapy is currently recommended. Glucocorticoids have recently attracted renewed interest as potential immunomodulatory agents in this setting. By reducing excessive inflammation and promoting the resolution of the immune response, they may help limit lung injury and improve clinical outcomes. This hypothesis is supported by findings from related conditions such as community-acquired pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and severe COVID-19, where corticosteroids have demonstrated benefits in selected populations. However, evidence specific to HAP and VAP remains limited. A few randomized trials have evaluated corticosteroids for prevention, particularly in trauma patients, where findings suggest a potential benefit and highlight the relevance of this strategy in select populations. More recently, individualized approaches based on inflammatory biomarkers have shown promise in identifying patients who are more likely to benefit from corticosteroid therapy. Two randomized controlled trials, currently ongoing to evaluate their role as adjunctive treatment in established HAP and VAP, will help define the efficacy and tolerance of steroids. Given the heterogeneity of immune responses in critically ill patients, a "one-size-fits-all" approach is unlikely to be effective. Identifying inflammatory sub-phenotypes using clinical and biological markers (such as C-reactive protein or interleukin-6) may help guide a more personalized use of immunomodulatory therapies. Alterations in the lung microbiome could also influence host response and treatment efficacy. Altogether, corticosteroids represent a promising but still understudied adjunctive strategy for HAP and VAP. Future research should aim to refine patient selection and optimize treatment strategies within a precision medicine framework.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Mahajan S, Mahajan S, A Gusain (2026)

Interleukins in COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 Variants: Immunopathogenesis, Therapeutic Perspectives and Vaccine-Induced Immune Responses.

International journal of molecular sciences, 27(3): pii:ijms27031391.

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is characterized by profound immune dysregulation where interleukins play a central role in determining disease severity and response to interventions. This review summarizes the role of interleukins in the immunopathogenesis of COVID-19, with particular emphasis on differences observed across major SARS-CoV-2 variants. Pro-inflammatory interleukins like IL-1β, IL-6, IL-2, IL-17 and IL-18 are critically involved in cytokine storm, hyperinflammation, and acute respiratory distress syndrome, whereas anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 contribute to immune regulation and resolution of inflammation. Elevated levels of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-8, IL-9, IL-16, IL-18 have been documented in the Delta variant as compared with the Omicron variant, with IL-6 being the most frequent interleukin reported to be increased across all SARS-CoV-2 variants relative to the ancestral Wuhan strain. Elevated IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 levels have been associated with Omicron sub-variants. The review encompasses interleukin-based therapeutic strategies, where several IL-1 and IL-6 inhibitors were studied across clinical trials, but only tocilizumab has shown some promise against severe COVID-19. IL-2, IL-6, IL-15 and IL-21 levels were positively correlated with IgG and neutralizing antibody activity after vaccination with longevity of post-vaccination immunity being determined by IL-2 and IL-7.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Leka K, Mamede L, Vandeberg E, et al (2026)

Natural Alkaloids as Antiviral Agents Against RNA Viruses: A Comprehensive and Mechanistic Review.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 31(3): pii:molecules31030539.

RNA viruses pose a persistent global threat due to their high mutation rates, zoonotic potential, and rapid adaptability. Emergence events have risen steadily, as demonstrated by major outbreaks caused by Influenza A, Ebola, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses, followed by the coronavirus epidemics of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-1) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) and culminating in the COVID-19 pandemic. These characteristics frequently compromise the durability of existing vaccines and antiviral therapies, highlighting the urgent need for new antiviral agents. Alkaloids, a structurally diverse class of nitrogen-containing natural compounds, have gained attention for their ability to interfere with multiple stages of the viral life cycle, including entry, replication, protein synthesis, and host immune modulation. To our knowledge, this review compiles all currently reported alkaloids with antiviral activity against RNA viruses and summarizes their proposed mechanisms of action, distinguishing evidence from in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies. Quaternary alkaloids are discussed separately because their permanent ionic charge enables distinctive interactions with membranes and host pathways. Although many findings are promising, clinical translation remains limited by incomplete mechanistic validation, scarce in vivo data, suboptimal bioavailability, narrow therapeutic windows, and inconsistent experimental methodologies. To advance the field, future research should prioritize RT-qPCR-based antiviral evaluation to accurately quantify viral replication, incorporate mechanistic assays to clarify modes of action, apply structure-activity relationship (SAR) approaches for rational optimization, and expand in vivo pharmacokinetic and efficacy studies to assess therapeutic feasibility. Overall, alkaloids represent a promising yet underdeveloped reservoir for next-generation antiviral discovery against rapidly evolving RNA viruses.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Wang J, Xu Y, Yang Y, et al (2026)

Structural Basis and Inhibitor Development of SARS-CoV-2 Papain-like Protease.

Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 31(3): pii:molecules31030474.

Papain-like protease (PLpro), a crucial functional domain of the SARS-CoV-2 non-structural protein 3 (nsp3), plays a dual role in both hydrolyzing viral polyprotein precursors and modulating host immune responses. These critical functions position PLpro as a key target in the ongoing development of antiviral therapies for SARS-CoV-2. This review analyzes more than 100 PLpro-ligand co-crystal structures and summarizes the major binding modes between these ligands and PLpro. Most of these ligands bind to sites analogous to those targeted by the classical non-covalent inhibitor GRL0617, primarily involving the P3 and P4 subsites and the BL2 loop. Based on these structural insights, optimized inhibitors have expanded targeting beyond the canonical binding site to auxiliary regions such as the BL2 groove and the Val70 site, and in some cases toward the catalytic Cys111 buried within a narrow pocket. Certain ligands identified through various screening approaches bind to non-canonical or allosteric regions, such as the S1 and S2 sites or the zinc-finger domain, engaging PLpro through distinct interaction modes and thereby offering additional opportunities for PLpro inhibitor design. The review also discusses potential strategies for future PLpro inhibitor development informed by recent structural advances. Taken together, these structural and functional insights support ongoing efforts in the structure-guided design and optimization of PLpro inhibitors.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Carlini F, Chiesa AM, Verzina M, et al (2026)

Cutaneous Clues in Kawasaki Disease: Clinical Implications and Differential Diagnosis with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children.

Journal of clinical medicine, 15(3): pii:jcm15031126.

Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) are pediatric inflammatory conditions with overlapping mucocutaneous features that may complicate early diagnosis. We performed a narrative review of the literature to characterize and compare cutaneous manifestations reported in children with KD and MIS-C and to assess their diagnostic relevance. Published studies describing dermatologic findings in patients aged 0-18 years were reviewed. The analysis revealed a broad heterogeneity of skin manifestations in both conditions, ranging from classic polymorphous rash and acral erythema to atypical presentations, including annular, psoriasiform, vesiculobullous, urticarial, and erythema nodosum-like lesions. Reactivation at Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccination sites and associated mucocutaneous findings, such as conjunctivitis and oral changes, emerged as supportive diagnostic clues, particularly for incomplete KD. Considerable overlap in cutaneous phenotypes between KD and MIS-C was observed, especially in patients with persistent fever and systemic inflammation, highlighting the risk of diagnostic delay. These findings underscore the importance of recognizing atypical dermatologic patterns as part of an integrated diagnostic approach, as delayed identification may increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. Early recognition of cutaneous clues can support timely initiation of immunomodulatory therapy and improve clinical outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Grosu IA, Dobrin ME, Marginean C, et al (2026)

Integrated Approach of Hematological Parameters and Glutathione as Predictors of Pulmonary TB Evolution: A Comprehensive Review.

Journal of clinical medicine, 15(3): pii:jcm15031017.

In recent decades, the burden of TB has been gradually declining; however, with the emergence of COVID-19 and ongoing political conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, the proper functioning of healthcare services and TB control programs has been jeopardized. Recently, research has emphasized the importance of hematological parameters associated with inflammation, which can be easily analyzed through routine blood tests. Combining these parameters may have predictive value for various diseases, including pulmonary tuberculosis and even help monitor the effectiveness of treatment. Since there is no single hematological or inflammatory biomarker that provides precise and dynamic information about the success or failure of treatment, identifying individual markers or sets of biomarkers with higher sensitivity and specificity is essential. This is particularly important since sputum culture conversion at two months remains insufficiently sensitive and microscopy conversion has limited sensitivity and specificity in detecting treatment failure. Also, the analysis of the impact of the standard directly observed treatment, short-course regimen on pathogenic mechanisms also focuses on how it influences the interaction between inflammation and oxidative tissue degradation, by measuring plasma levels of glutathione. Utilizing a combination of hematological, inflammatory, and antioxidant biomarkers offers significant insights into systemic inflammatory responses in pulmonary tuberculosis patients, both before commencing treatment and during the entire duration of antituberculosis therapy. Combining different inflammatory parameters into a multiple biomarker can significantly enhance the accuracy of predicting prognosis and response to antibiotic chemotherapy. Identifying an optimal combination of biomarkers with predictive value is crucial for assessing treatment response and evaluating the effectiveness of anti-TB medication. Rather than developing or testing a composite prediction model, this review summarizes reported performance metrics from individual studies and highlights priorities for future prospective validation of integrated biomarker panels.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Ibrahim YM, Liu C, Yu Y, et al (2026)

Swine Enteric Coronaviruses: An Updated Overview of Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Control.

Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 16(3): pii:ani16030458.

Swine enteric coronaviruses (SECoVs), including transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), and swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), are major enteric pathogens causing severe diarrhea, dehydration, high neonatal mortality, and substantial global economic losses. Rapid viral evolution and recombination continually generate antigenically diverse variants that limit cross-protection and undermine vaccine efficacy, particularly for PEDV genogroup II strains that now dominate worldwide circulation. This review synthesizes current knowledge on epidemiology, diagnostic innovations, and emerging vaccine platforms, with emphasis on advances since 2022. Recent progress includes molecular surveillance tools, rapid point-of-care diagnostics, and next-generation vaccine technologies such as mRNA-based and virus-like particle platforms. However, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding viral evolution dynamics, co-infection synergies, and zoonotic spillover potential, particularly following documented human infections with PDCoV. Effective long-term control requires integrated genomic surveillance, strengthened farm-level biosecurity, rationally designed multivalent vaccines targeting conserved epitopes, and harmonized international surveillance systems to reduce outbreak risk and enhance pandemic preparedness at the human-animal interface.

RevDate: 2026-02-12

Lailaturrahmi L, Caliph S, Vu T, et al (2026)

Teaching clinical skills online in pharmacy education: a scoping review.

Currents in pharmacy teaching & learning, 18(5):102607 pii:S1877-1297(26)00040-7 [Epub ahead of print].

Background The integration of online teaching and learning in pharmacy curricula has increased since the worldwide rapid transition to remote teaching during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, how clinical skills were taught online in pharmacy education, including the types of skills, approaches and technologies used, and the outcomes remain poorly understood. Objective To provide an overview of the types of clinical skills taught online in pharmacy education; and to identify the purposes, teaching strategies, technologies used, educational settings, enabling and limiting factors, and reported outcomes to inform future curriculum development in pharmacy education. Methods The scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Scoping Review methodology. A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, and ERIC databases using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the records were independently screened by four reviewers. Any discrepancies during the screening process were resolved through discussion. The data were extracted and then analyzed using content analysis and thematic analysis. Results A total of 349 studies were retrieved and proceeded to title and abstract screening. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 152 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, of which sixty-four articles were included in the final review. Online synchronous, asynchronous, and blended learning were implemented in pharmacy education to teach clinical skills, including communication skills and therapeutic decision-making skills. Clinical skills were most often taught online to improve the learning process. Learning outcomes measured by self-assessment or by educators were most commonly reported. Enablers, including institutional readiness and technology infrastructure, and barriers, including institutional unpreparedness and inadequate design, were also identified. Conclusion This scoping review provides guiding information to integrate online teaching and learning into pharmacy curricula, particularly for clinical skills development. By including multiple stakeholders' perspectives, this review offers useful insight for academics and faculty leaders to successfully teach clinical skills online to pharmacy students.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2026-02-13

Gu F, Chen Z, Lu Y, et al (2026)

Short-Term Thrombosis Following Coronary Stent Implantation in a Patient With Myocardial Infarction and COVID-19 Infection: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Catheterization and cardiovascular interventions : official journal of the Society for Cardiac Angiography & Interventions, 107(3):693-699.

In-stent thrombosis is a rare but devastating complication following percutaneous coronary intervention, and its risk may be significantly heightened by the pro-inflammatory and hypercoagulable state induced by COVID-19 infection. This case report details a 62-year-old male with acute non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction who underwent successful drug-eluting stent implantation, only to develop catastrophic in-stent thrombosis and cardiac rupture within one hour post-procedure, concurrent with a mild COVID-19 infection. Despite emergency thrombectomy and surgical intervention, the patient succumbed to refractory cardiogenic shock. This case, alongside a review of similar published reports, underscores the alarmingly rapid onset of stent thrombosis in COVID-19 patients and suggests that the viral infection acts as a potent precipitating factor. The pathophysiology likely involves immune-mediated endothelial injury, platelet hyperreactivity, and a systemic inflammatory cascade. The discussion highlights the critical need for heightened vigilance, consideration of intensified peri-procedural antithrombotic strategies (such as glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors), and the potential role of intravascular imaging in this high-risk patient population. This report concludes that managing acute coronary syndrome in the context of COVID-19 requires a personalized and aggressive approach to mitigate the elevated threat of early stent thrombosis.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2023-09-18

Costa UM (2023)

[Occupational Therapy Guideline for the management of sequelae of viral diseases with SARS-CoV-2 : Supplement to the S1 guidelines for the management of post-viral conditions exemplified by post-COVID-19].

Wiener klinische Wochenschrift, 135(Suppl 4):599-618.

Sequelae of viral disease with SARS-CoV-2 impact clients' biopsychosocial health, thus their daily life, with limitations resp. barriers in their occupational capacities and opportunities. Occupational therapists have numerous and, with constantly growing evidence, personalised therapeutic means, measures, and methods in any intervention phase relevant to these according health problems, supporting i. e. coping, occupational adaptation, quality of life and participatory re-shaping of (daily) life. Based on ongoing research findings and practice evidence, this document contains recommendations for occupational therapy intervention for clients with biopsychosocial health conditions post COVID-19.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2023-03-27

Anonymous (2023)

Update to living WHO guideline on drugs to prevent covid-19.

BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 380:692.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-12-15

Koczulla AR, Ankermann T, Behrends U, et al (2022)

[German S1 Guideline Long-/Post-COVID].

Pneumologie (Stuttgart, Germany), 76(12):855-907.

The German Society of Pneumology initiated 2021 the AWMF S1 guideline Long COVID/Post-COVID. In a broad interdisciplinary approach, this S1 guideline was designed based on the current state of knowledge.The clinical recommendations describe current Long COVID/Post-COVID symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and therapies.In addition to the general and consensus introduction, a subject-specific approach was taken to summarize the current state of knowledge.The guideline has an explicit practical claim and will be developed and adapted by the author team based on the current increase in knowledge.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-07-15

Anonymous (2022)

Update to living WHO guideline on drugs for covid-19.

BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 378:o1713.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-06-10

Falavigna M, Stein C, Amaral JLGD, et al (2022)

Brazilian Guidelines for the pharmacological treatment of patients hospitalized with COVID-19: Joint guideline of Associação Brasileira de Medicina de Emergência, Associação de Medicina Intensiva Brasileira, Associação Médica Brasileira, Sociedade Brasileira de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular, Sociedade Brasileira de Infectologia, Sociedade Brasileira de Pneumologia e Tisiologia, Sociedade Brasileira de Reumatologia.

Revista Brasileira de terapia intensiva, 34(1):1-12.

OBJECTIVE: Several therapies are being used or proposed for COVID-19, and many lack appropriate evaluations of their effectiveness and safety. The purpose of this document is to develop recommendations to support decisions regarding the pharmacological treatment of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 in Brazil.

METHODS: A group of 27 experts, including representatives of the Ministry of Health and methodologists, created this guideline. The method used for the rapid development of guidelines was based on the adoption and/or adaptation of existing international guidelines (GRADE ADOLOPMENT) and supported by the e-COVID-19 RecMap platform. The quality of the evidence and the preparation of the recommendations followed the GRADE method.

RESULTS: Sixteen recommendations were generated. They include strong recommendations for the use of corticosteroids in patients using supplemental oxygen, the use of anticoagulants at prophylactic doses to prevent thromboembolism and the nonuse of antibiotics in patients without suspected bacterial infection. It was not possible to make a recommendation regarding the use of tocilizumab in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 using oxygen due to uncertainties regarding the availability of and access to the drug. Strong recommendations against the use of hydroxychloroquine, convalescent plasma, colchicine, lopinavir + ritonavir and antibiotics in patients without suspected bacterial infection and also conditional recommendations against the use of casirivimab + imdevimab, ivermectin and rendesivir were made.

CONCLUSION: To date, few therapies have proven effective in the treatment of hospitalized patients with COVID-19, and only corticosteroids and prophylaxis for thromboembolism are recommended. Several drugs were considered ineffective and should not be used to provide the best treatment according to the principles of evidence-based medicine and promote economical resource use.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-05-17

Ohta N (2022)

[PRACTICAL GUIDELINE FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF ALLERGIC RINITIS UNDER COVID-19 INFECTION].

Arerugi = [Allergy], 71(3):186-190.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-05-17

Falavigna M, Belli KC, Barbosa AN, et al (2022)

Brazilian guidelines for the treatment of outpatients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. A joint guideline of the Brazilian Association of Emergency Medicine (ABRAMEDE), Brazilian Medical Association (AMB), Brazilian Society of Angiology and Vascular Surgery (SBACV), Brazilian Society of Geriatrics and Gerontology (SBGG), Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases (SBI), Brazilian Society of Family and Community Medicine (SBFMC), and Brazilian Thoracic Society (SBPT).

The Brazilian journal of infectious diseases : an official publication of the Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases, 26(2):102347.

BACKGROUND: Several therapies have been used or proposed for the treatment of COVID-19, although their effectiveness and safety have not been properly evaluated. The purpose of this document is to provide recommendations to support decisions about the drug treatment of outpatients with COVID-19 in Brazil.

METHODS: A panel consisting of experts from different clinical fields, representatives of the Brazilian Ministry of Health, and methodologists (37 members in total) was responsible for preparing these guidelines. A rapid guideline development method was used, based on the adoption and/or adaptation of recommendations from existing international guidelines combined with additional structured searches for primary studies and new recommendations whenever necessary (GRADE-ADOLOPMENT). The rating of quality of evidence and the drafting of recommendations followed the GRADE method.

RESULTS: Ten technologies were evaluated, and 10 recommendations were prepared. Recommendations were made against the use of anticoagulants, azithromycin, budesonide, colchicine, corticosteroids, hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine alone or combined with azithromycin, ivermectin, nitazoxanide, and convalescent plasma. It was not possible to make a recommendation regarding the use of monoclonal antibodies in outpatients, as their benefit is uncertain and their cost is high, with limitations of availability and implementation.

CONCLUSION: To date, few therapies have demonstrated effectiveness in the treatment of outpatients with COVID-19. Recommendations are restricted to what should not be used, in order to provide the best treatment according to the principles of evidence-based medicine and to promote resource savings by aboiding ineffective treatments.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-05-30

Walewska R, Parry-Jones N, Eyre TA, et al (2022)

Guideline for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.

British journal of haematology, 197(5):544-557.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-12-14

Rabady S, Altenberger J, Brose M, et al (2021)

[Guideline S1: Long COVID: Diagnostics and treatment strategies].

Wiener klinische Wochenschrift, 133(Suppl 7):237-278.

This guideline comprises the state of science at the time of the editorial deadline. In view of the high turnover of knowledge the guideline is designed as a living guideline. The main objective was to provide a tool for the use in primary care, being considered well suited as a first point of entry and for the provision of care. The guideline gives recommendations on the differential diagnosis of symptoms following SARS-CoV‑2 infection, on their therapeutic options, as well as for guidance and care of the patients concerned. It also offers advice concerning return to daily life and rehabilitation. Long COVID being a very variable condition, we chose an interdisciplinary approach.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-10-15

Rohaizam J, Tham YS, Zakinah Y, et al (2021)

Tracheostomy during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia; a revised guideline.

The Medical journal of Malaysia, 76(Suppl 4):23-26.

Performing tracheostomy on COVID-19 patients poses a significant risk to the procedural team. Such procedures should be evaluated individually via close communication between the otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgeon and the intensivist. Comprehensive examination and preparation should be well-planned before tracheostomy, optimal technique during tracheostomy and special care following the surgery. We would like to highlight our revised guidelines at Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on the timing of tracheostomy, management of anticoagulant and the surgical planning in COVID-19 patients during these challenging times.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-10-20

Cho JY, Lee YS, Kim SS, et al (2021)

Update on liver disease management during the pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19): 2021 KASL guideline.

Clinical and molecular hepatology, 27(4):515-523.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-11-19

Koczulla AR, Ankermann T, Behrends U, et al (2021)

[S1 Guideline Post-COVID/Long-COVID].

Pneumologie (Stuttgart, Germany), 75(11):869-900.

The German Society of Pneumology initiated the AWMFS1 guideline Post-COVID/Long-COVID. In a broad interdisciplinary approach, this S1 guideline was designed based on the current state of knowledge.The clinical recommendation describes current post-COVID/long-COVID symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and therapies.In addition to the general and consensus introduction, a subject-specific approach was taken to summarize the current state of knowledge.The guideline has an expilcit practical claim and will be continuously developed and adapted by the author team based on the current increase in knowledge.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-07-15

Anonymous (2021)

Update to living WHO guideline on drugs for covid-19.

BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 374:n1703.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-05-10

Mato-Mañas D, López-Gómez P, Viera-Artiles J, et al (2022)

Endoscopic endonasal surgery during COVID-19 pandemic: Management guideline.

Neurocirugia, 33(3):130-134.

Current SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic is challenging medical and surgical activities. Specifically, within neurosurgery, endoscopic endonasal approaches pose a high risk of contagion for healthcare personnel involved in it. Initially, the recommendation was to avoid such surgeries. However, the pandemic has dragged on and new solutions must be proposed to continue carrying out these approaches safely. Given the lack of established protocols, we propose the following one, which concisely establishes the measures to be taken in both urgent and scheduled surgery. In addition, a new protection-aspiration device (Maskpirator) is described.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-09-06

Chinese Society of Hepatology, Chinese Medical Association (2021)

[Rapid guideline for COVID-19 vaccination in patients with chronic liver diseases, hepatolbiliary malignancy and liver transplant].

Zhonghua gan zang bing za zhi = Zhonghua ganzangbing zazhi = Chinese journal of hepatology, 29(6):523-526.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-09-28

Bansal N, Azeka E, Neunert C, et al (2021)

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome Associated with COVID-19 Anti-thrombosis Guideline of Care for Children by Action.

Pediatric cardiology, 42(7):1635-1639.

With growing number of pediatric cases of COVID-19, a unique hyper-inflammatory syndrome, linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection, has emerged in children referred to as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). This Kawasaki Disease (KD)-like illness has been described across the world. This syndrome shares features of KD, toxic shock syndrome, and macrophage activation syndrome and is associated with significantly elevated inflammatory markers. Everyday there are new data emerging improving the care of these patients. The Advanced Cardiac Therapies Improving Outcomes Network (ACTION) is a collaborative network designed to improve the outcomes of pediatric patients with end-stage heart failure and involves centers from across North America. The committee gathered information concerning COVID-19 anticoagulation practices at various centers and harmonized the data to formulate a set of recommendations.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-05-03

Mato-Mañas D, López-Gómez P, Viera-Artiles J, et al (2022)

[Endoscopic endonasal surgery during COVID-19 pandemic: Management guideline].

Neurocirugia (Asturias, Spain), 33(3):130-134.

Current SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic is challenging medical and surgical activities. Specifically, within neurosurgery, endoscopic endonasal approaches pose a high risk of contagion for healthcare personnel involved in it. Initially, the recommendation was to avoid such surgeries. However, the pandemic has dragged on and new solutions must be proposed to continue carrying out these approaches safely. Given the lack of established protocols, we propose the following one, which concisely establishes the measures to be taken in both urgent and scheduled surgery. In addition, a new protection-aspiration device (Maskpirator) is described.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2021-01-12

Sauri-Barraza JC, Elizalde-Martínez E, Callejas-Ponce E, et al (2020)

[The Mexican Association of Spine Surgery Guideline for the decision making to perform a spine surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic].

Acta ortopedica mexicana, 34(3):167-175.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed in a significant way the lifestyle in the world and in Mexico. Medicine is not an exception, therefore, modifications in how the assessment and treatment of our patients is done, is mandatory to assure the safeness of the patient, the medical team, the hospital staff, the medical facility, and the community. In this paper, the Mexican Association of Spine Surgery (AMCICO) make recommendations based in the information available at the moment, to help decide when and how to perform a spine surgery in the coronavirus pandemic. Objective: To provide the spine surgeon with the tools required and a decision path to postpone or perform a spine surgery in the COVID-19 pandemic.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2020-12-07

Anonymous (2020)

Update to living WHO guideline on drugs for covid-19.

BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 371:m4475.

RevDate: 2026-02-13
CmpDate: 2022-03-31

Ezenwa BN, Fajolu IB, Akinajo OR, et al (2022)

Management of covid-19: a practical guideline for maternal and newborn health care providers in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The journal of maternal-fetal & neonatal medicine : the official journal of the European Association of Perinatal Medicine, the Federation of Asia and Oceania Perinatal Societies, the International Society of Perinatal Obstetricians, 35(9):1789-1795.

COVID-19 is a pandemic that is currently ravaging the world. Infection rate is steadily increasing in Sub-Saharan Africa. Pregnant women and their infants may suffer severe illnesses due to their lower immunity. This guideline prepares and equips clinicians working in the maternal and newborn sections in the sub-region to manage COVID-19 during pregnancy and childbirth.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Lebel RD, Sanders J, JI Menges (2026)

Beyond positivity: A review of the functional outcomes of negative emotions at work.

Journal of occupational health psychology, 31(1):1-15.

Organizational scholars examining the effects of emotions on employees generally assume that negative emotions produce negative outcomes. However, a nascent body of research challenges this view, suggesting that negative emotions can help employees navigate work demands arising from disruptive external events. We draw on the COVID-19 pandemic-a salient, prolonged event that stimulated widespread negative emotions-as a theoretically meaningful context to explore when and why negative emotions may yield beneficial outcomes. Specifically, we provide an integrative conceptual review synthesizing research from applied and social psychology conducted during the pandemic that identifies two pathways through which negative emotions produce functional individual-level outcomes at work. The first pathway captures direct effects driven by the unique action tendencies associated with discrete negative emotions. The second pathway, informed by the personality systems interaction theory, highlights contingent effects shaped by self-regulatory factors and external support from leaders, teams, or organizational policies. Our findings challenge and extend discrete emotion and affective shift theories by detailing how and under what conditions negative emotions from disruptive events can have functional outcomes. We bring necessary nuance to prevailing emotion theories and offer practical implications for leaders and organizations seeking to manage negative emotions during the times of hardship. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Muir KC, Harris DD, Kanuparthy M, et al (2026)

Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein-Induced Endothelial Dysfunction.

Cells, 15(3): pii:cells15030234.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is initiated by the viral spike proteins, which are key structural components that mediate host cell binding and entry and alter downstream signaling through multiple interactions with endothelial surface receptors. Endothelial dysfunction is a central consequence of COVID-19, contributing to vascular inflammation, barrier disruption, thrombosis, and multi-organ injury affecting the pulmonary, cardiovascular, cerebral, and renal systems. Emerging evidence demonstrates that spike protein-mediated effects, independent of productive viral infection, disrupt endothelial homeostasis through angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) dysregulation, integrin engagement, altered calcium signaling, junctional protein remodeling, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory and pro-apoptotic pathways. This review is intentionally focused on spike (S) protein-driven mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction; pathogenic vascular effects attributed to other SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins, including the nucleocapsid (N) protein, are beyond the scope of this discussion. In this review, we synthesize current experimental and translational data detailing the molecular mechanisms by which the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein drives endothelial dysfunction across multiple organ systems and discuss potential therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving endothelial integrity in acute COVID-19 and its long-term vascular sequela.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Madi M (2026)

Viral Contributions to Periodontal and Peri-implant Disease: A Narrative Review.

Saudi journal of medicine & medical sciences, 14(1):14-22.

Periodontal diseases, particularly periodontitis, are chronic inflammation with complex microbial and immunological etiologies. While bacterial pathogens such as Porphyromonas gingivalis are well-known contributors, emerging evidence indicates the role of viruses, especially herpesviruses, in the onset and progression of periodontal tissue destruction. In this review, the interplay between viral infections and periodontal health was explored, with an emphasis on the immunopathological mechanisms in which different viruses such as human herpesvirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and human cytomegalovirus aggravate periodontal tissue destruction. These viruses impair host defenses, promote bacterial colonization, and alter cytokine responses, leading to periodontal tissue damage. The review also addresses the impact of systemic viral infections, such as HIV and COVID-19, on periodontal diseases. Elevation in inflammatory mediators, including interleukin-6, link periodontitis with adverse clinical outcomes in viral infections. Moreover, interactions between P. gingivalis and respiratory viruses suggest oral pathogens may also influence systemic disease severity. Advances in diagnosis using molecular technology have improved viral detection in periodontal tissues, and previous studies support the use of antiviral therapies and gene-targeted interventions as potential adjuncts to traditional periodontal care. The integration of preventive strategies, such as vaccination and enhanced oral hygiene, is crucial in reducing the systemic consequences of viral-periodontal interactions. This review highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and continued research to fully comprehend the virological dimensions of periodontal disease and develop effective, targeted therapeutic approaches.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Ahsan A, Ibrahim O, Ayesha M, et al (2026)

Fusion of molecular mimicry, epigenetic predisposition, and new onset GBS: a narrative review of current understanding and future directions.

Annals of medicine and surgery (2012), 88(2):1532-1540.

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a severe immune-driven polyneuropathy marked by the acute onset of flaccid paralysis, areflexia, and in severe cases, life-threatening autonomic or respiratory failure. Although the clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria are widely established, the precise mechanisms underlying GBS are complex and poorly understood. This review summarizes current literature on the interplay of post-infectious triggers, molecular mimicry, and host susceptibility as influenced by genetic and epigenetic variables. Infectious pathogens such as Campylobacter jejuni, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, and, more recently, Zika and SARS-CoV-2 operate as initiators via molecular mimicry, in which pathogen antigens imitate peripheral nerve components, triggering the formation of autoreactive antibody and T-cell responses. Acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (AIDP) is characterized by demyelination and inflammatory cytokine responses, whereas acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN) is associated with ganglioside-targeting antibodies and axonal loss. Genetic polymorphisms, such as those in HLA, TLR4, MMP9, and CD1A, influence vulnerability to the disease and its progression. Given that many patients experience persistent sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction despite treatment, the identification of long-term complications highlights the necessity of customized rehabilitation and long-term follow-up. Traditional therapeutic techniques, such as plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin, remain in use, but current trials on complement inhibitors, antibody-degrading enzymes, and mesenchymal stem cell therapies indicate a move toward mechanism-driven approaches. Despite these advances, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding predictors of poor outcomes and underlying causes of persistent disabilities and complications, highlighting the need for continued translational and clinical research.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Elizabeth L, Shanthi B, Cherupanakkal C, et al (2026)

Exploring the Interplay Between Micronutrients and Cytokine Storm in Children with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome: 'A Potential Mechanical Insight'.

Indian journal of clinical biochemistry : IJCB, 41(1):5-16.

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a rare but serious condition linked to SARS-CoV-2 infection. MIS-C is characterized by inflammation in several organ systems, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, and eyes. Although MIS-C symptoms can vary widely, typical symptoms include fever, stomach ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, red eyes, and exhaustion. Although the pathogenesis of MIS-C is not yet fully understood, studies have shown that an uncontrolled immunological response known as a "cytokine storm" may play a role in the development of MIS-C. Several studies have related micronutrient deficiencies to chronic immunological activation, increased inflammation, increased cytokine production, and increased chance of developing a persistent viral infection. Studies have shown that children with MIS-C had lower micronutrients, including vitamin D, C, and zinc, than do healthy kids. Deficits in these nutrients, which are crucial for controlling the immunological response, may make the immune system less able to fight off infections and cause MIS-C. In conclusion, research on the connection between MIS-C and micronutrient deficiencies is still in its early stages. Although there is some evidence linking the two, additional research is required to determine a cause and effect.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

McTiernan K, Hughes C, Ó Gilheaney (2026)

Cognitive Communication, Voice and Swallowing Difficulties Experienced by Adults With Long-COVID: A Scoping Review.

Health expectations : an international journal of public participation in health care and health policy, 29(1):e70595.

BACKGROUND: Adults with Long-COVID frequently experience impairments in cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing, however, few comprehensive reviews of the existing literature has yet to be conducted to map the current research landscape. To go some way toward addressing this gap, this scoping review collected and analysed relevant published studies to identify reported symptoms related to cognitive communication, voice and swallowing in post COVID-19 patients and the assessments used to identify these difficulties.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to systematically map the existing literature on cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing difficulties in individuals living with Long-COVID and the assessments used to identify these difficulties.

METHODS: Four databases were searched to identify original research articles aligned with the study's objectives. Studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected, and the findings were analysed with a specific focus on three key symptom domains: cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing.

RESULTS: Nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. A broad range of assessments were used, and a broad range of symptoms were identified related to cognitive-communication, voice and swallowing difficulties in patients with Long-COVID-19. The symptoms reported most frequently in the selected studies included memory deficits, incomplete or inefficient glottic closure, paradoxical vocal fold motion during inspiration, episodes of choking, globus sensation, premature spillage and pyriform sinus residue.

CONCLUSION: Despite limited prior research in this area, the findings underscore the significant impact that COVID-19 infection may have on cognitive communication, voice and swallowing functions. Post-COVID-19 patients report a wide array of challenges in these domains. As a result, further clinical research is essential to develop patient-centred care strategies and to equip healthcare professionals with the expertise required for effective management of this group of patients.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Gasmi M, Torabinasab K, Williams-Hooker R, et al (2026)

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as a marker of immunosenescence and COVID-19 outcomes in the elderly: A narrative review.

Physiological reports, 14(3):e70682.

Older adults are highly vulnerable to severe COVID-19. Unlike our previous work on broad immunosenescence, this review focuses on peripheral hematological markers as practical indicators of risk. To examine lymphopenia, neutrophilia, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) as clinically accessible markers of immune aging and COVID-19 severity in older adults. Literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (up to 2025) for studies on aging, immunosenescence, lymphopenia, neutrophilia, NLR, and COVID-19. These markers consistently correlate with worse COVID-19 outcomes; NLR is a simple, reliable indicator of immune dysregulation, systemic inflammation, and mortality risk. Lymphopenia, neutrophilia, and elevated NLR are low-cost, readily measurable markers associated with COVID-19 severity, highlighting their prognostic value and complementing prior immunosenescence research.

RevDate: 2026-02-11

Pan Q, Wang W, Janssen HLA, et al (2026)

Status and outlook of mRNA therapeutics for viral diseases.

EMBO molecular medicine [Epub ahead of print].

Endemic and emerging viral diseases continue to impose significant health, economic, and societal burdens worldwide. Vaccines and therapeutics represent two key pillars in the fight against these threats. Since the clinical success of mRNA vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA therapeutics have rapidly evolved from a niche innovation into a validated and versatile medical platform. While early efforts focused primarily on vaccine development, recent advances have expanded the scope to antiviral applications of in vitro-transcribed mRNA. Emerging strategies include in vivo expression of neutralizing antibodies for passive immunization, delivery of innate immune effectors such as interferons and antiviral peptides, and programmable CRISPR-based antiviral systems. In parallel, progress in mRNA delivery technologies has enabled clinical translation, although challenges related to stability, specificity, and immunogenicity remain. In this Perspective article, we review recent preclinical and clinical advances in mRNA therapeutics for viral infections. We also highlight key scientific, technical, and regulatory challenges, and propose strategic solutions to address the pressing need for controlling endemic viral diseases and enhancing global pandemic preparedness.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Lazarus R, Williams V, Cochrane H, et al (2026)

Attitudes to vaccine co-administration in adults: A scoping review of qualitative evidence.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 22(1):2616140.

Providing multiple vaccinations to adults at a single appointment, known as co-administration, could help increase vaccine coverage by making the process more convenient for the public. Despite vaccine co-administration policies, there are many missed opportunities to offer multiple vaccines. A qualitative understanding of the public attitude to co-administration may allow the development of interventions to increase implementation of co-administration policies. We undertook a scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute framework to collate the available qualitative literature to identify barriers, and facilitators to vaccine co-administration as well as potential research gaps. We created and used an iterative search strategy to retrieve articles published between 1/10/2010 and 11/12/2024 in three scientific databases. None of the articles retrieved fulfilled the inclusion criteria. There were nine articlesthat used quantitative surveys to measure attitudes, barriers and facilitators. Qualitative studies to understand barriers and facilitators to vaccine co-administration are needed to inform future policy implementation.

RevDate: 2026-02-12
CmpDate: 2026-02-12

Amirav I, Ben Yosef H, Zelniker N, et al (2026)

Risk of small-volume nebulizer treatments in the transmission of bacteria and viruses: a systematic review.

The Journal of hospital infection, 168:144-160.

BACKGROUND: Nebulized aerosol therapy is widely used for treating respiratory diseases, including those caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. During pandemics, some guidelines recommend avoiding nebulizers, yet supporting evidence is limited.

OBJECTIVE: To undertake a systematic review of evidence on the risk of cross-infection linked to nebulizer use in healthcare settings.

DATA SOURCES: Databases including Medline and Embase were searched from June 2020 to February 2024. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection and data extraction; discrepancies were resolved by a third reviewer.

DATA EXTRACTION: Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control and cohort studies, an adapted version for cross-sectional studies, and a custom tool for experimental/simulation studies. Meta-analysis was performed on comparative clinical data. Certainty of evidence was rated using the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

SYNTHESIS: Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria (six case-control, three cohort, one cross-sectional, four case series, 12 experimental/simulation). None of them reported that nebulizer use is free from risk of cross-infection. Meta-analysis of 10 comparative clinical studies (N=8536) found an association between nebulizer use and increased risk of infection (odds ratio 3.20, 95% confidence interval 1.59-6.44; P=0.0001), although certainty was low. Nine of 12 experimental/simulation studies demonstrated aerosol dispersion of particles or pathogens.

CONCLUSIONS: Nebulizer exposure may elevate the risk of infection compared with non-exposure. Nebulizer use in hospital settings should be limited during pandemics or when cross-infection is a concern. When necessary, additional precautions are warranted.

RevDate: 2026-02-11

Antunez Martinez OF, Vallejo Bustamante YI, NO Varela Zuniga (2026)

Mapping the advanced practice nursing in emergency and intensive care units: A scoping review.

International emergency nursing, 85:101764 pii:S1755-599X(26)00022-4 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Advanced Practice Nurses (APNs), including Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists, contribute significantly to quality, efficiency, and leadership in emergency departments (EDs) and intensive care units (ICUs). However, role variability, inconsistent regulation, and limited post-pandemic evidence remain challenges.

PURPOSE: To synthesize recent global evidence on APN roles, competencies, outcomes, and implementation challenges in EDs and ICUs, and identify strategies for effective integration.

METHOD: A scoping review, following Arksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, searched six databases. Eligible sources focused on APNs in EDs or ICUs. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted, and synthesized data descriptively and thematically.

FINDINGS: Twenty-five studies were included, showing APNs' main competences as advanced clinical reasoning, procedural skills, leadership, and evidence-based practice. Challenges involved role ambiguity, regulatory gaps, and limited autonomy. Post-COVID-19 developments expanded APN responsibilities but exposed workforce and educational gaps. Solutions proposed included standardized competencies, policy reform, postgraduate education, and interprofessional collaboration.

CONCLUSIONS: APNs enhance outcomes and efficiency in EDs and ICUs, but variability in role definitions limits impact. The current body of evidence surrounding APN practice in ICUs and EDs is primarily based on studies with low levels of evidence. Future implementation should be accompanied by rigorous evaluations to generate robust statistical evidence that supports the transferability of APN-led models.

RevDate: 2026-02-10

Tiwary P, Oswal K, Tzvetkov NT, et al (2026)

Travel microbiota: a novel frontier in travel medicine exploring microbial shifts across transportation modes.

Tropical diseases, travel medicine and vaccines pii:10.1186/s40794-026-00292-5 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Between 2010 and 2019, international travel increased by approximately 52.2%, highlighting the world's dependence on transportation for global connectivity. Although travel enhances global interactions, it also poses risks to public health through the potential transmission of diseases. The rapid global transmission of infectious diseases, exemplified by the outbreaks of COVID-19 and Zika virus, underscores the critical need for in-depth research into travel-associated disease dissemination. When individuals travel, they are exposed to a variety of diverse microbial environments, which can affect their healthy microbiome. In this review, we introduce the concept of "travel microbiota" to encapsulate the dynamic shifts in human microbial communities induced by travel across different transportation modes. This disruption can affect metabolic and immune functions and potentially facilitate the spread of diseases. Given these implications, it is crucial to investigate how different modes of transportation affect the human microbiota. Our study reviews the impact of travel on the human microbiota, highlighting differences across transportation modes. The objective is to establish a framework for understanding travel health and the role of microbiota in managing travel-related health risks. A comprehensive understanding of this relationship is essential for developing preventive strategies to safeguard and restore the human microbiota.

METHODS: To provide the specific content, relevant publications were identified on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct using specific keywords such as dysbiosis, gut, health, microbiome, microbiota, pathogens, travel, and transportation. We did not add any limits to the publication date during the inclusion of papers. However, it is noteworthy that the initial reports, including the aforementioned keywords, have been published starting from 2015.

CONCLUSION: Travel has a profound impact on the human microbiota, and it is essential to consider the implications associated with various modes of transportation. Traveling through various modes of transportation, such as roadways, airways, and maritime, has significantly influenced human microbiota. Moreover, it acts as a dynamic interface for microbial exchange driving rapid shift in microbial diversity, community convergence, and the diversification of resistant genes. However, the underlying mechanism of these changes remains elusive. By integrating evidence across multiple modes of transportation, this review highlights travel as an underrecognized determinant of microbiome variability and introduces the term "Travel microbiota". Moreover, this review is pivotal for understanding the ways in which travel alters microbial diversity and developing effective interventions. It is imperative to conduct future research that focuses on conducting large-scale longitudinal studies to assess the effects of traveling on microbial composition and to develop potential preventive measures.

RevDate: 2026-02-10

Mayers T, Terunuma Y, Inokuchi R, et al (2026)

Barriers and facilitators to healthcare access for refugee, immigrant, and migrant populations during the COVID-19 pandemic: an overview of reviews.

BMC health services research pii:10.1186/s12913-026-14138-5 [Epub ahead of print].

RevDate: 2026-02-10

Mahroum N, Elsalti A, Alsharif M, et al (2026)

Autoimmunity in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors: the evolving epidemiology of autoimmune diseases and the possible impact of COVID-19.

Autoimmunity reviews pii:S1568-9972(26)00016-9 [Epub ahead of print].

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have markedly improved the prognosis of previously fatal malignancies, as evidenced by substantial gains in overall and progression-free survival in multiple clinical trials. The mechanism of action of ICIs is based on altering the immune response while the reported side effects display clear autoimmune features. Designated as immune-related adverse events (irAEs) affect nearly every organ system, including the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and thyroid gland, and share features with autoimmune disorders of the same organs. The severity of irAEs ranges from mild to life-threatening reactions. Many cases require systemic corticosteroids, hospitalization, and in many instances the discontinuation of ICI therapy. In this review, we present the history of ICIs, their indications, and the reported irAEs in a systematic manner. We then focus on the autoimmune nature of these side effects, with particular attention to the epidemiology of autoimmune diseases, including their female preponderance in certain age groups. In the final sections, we discuss how irAEs may be altering the epidemiology of autoimmune disease and address the possible effect of COVID-19 as a potential trigger.

RevDate: 2026-02-10

Cao Q, Du S, Yang K, et al (2026)

Assessing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination on fertility and assisted reproductive techniques outcomes: an umbrella review.

Vaccine, 76:128293 pii:S0264-410X(26)00101-5 [Epub ahead of print].

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination on fertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN: This is an Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses. We searched major databases until December 30, 2023. The quality of evidence was assessed by a Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

RESULTS: Of 647 studies identified, 14 studies with 40 outcomes were included. COVID-19 infection may decrease semen quality in men, including semen volume (WMD, -0.48 ml; 95% CI, -0.59 to -0.36 ml), total sperm count (WMD, -34.84 × 10^6; 95% CI, -43.51 to -26.17 × 10^6), sperm concentration (WMD, -16.23 × 10^6/ml; 95% CI, -25.56 × 10^6 to -6.89 × 10^6), viability (SMD, -0.66; 95% CI, -1.27 to -0.06), and total sperm motility (SMD, -0.61; 95% CI, -0.96 to -0.25), and elevated levels of estradiol (SMD 0.652; 95% CI, 0.254 to 1.049; p = 0.001) and prolactin (SMD 0.305; 95% CI, 0.045 to 0.566; p = 0.022). However, it did not significantly affect testosterone levels. Notably, even after recovery (over 90 days), sperm concentration and motility remained lower compared to uninfected individuals. Conversely, COVID-19 showed minimal impact on female ovarian reserve (including antral follicle count, AMH) or ART outcomes (including oocyte number and quality, embryo quality, implantation rates, clinical pregnancy rates and miscarriage rates). Vaccination also had minimal effects on both sexes. Evidence quality was generally very low, highlighting the need for high-quality, long-term studies.

CONCLUSION: SARS-CoV-2 infection primarily affects male fertility, leading to reductions in sperm quality, count, and motility. However, female fertility and ART outcomes show little to no impact. COVID-19 vaccination shows minimal impact on fertility and ART outcomes. The quality of evidence is rated as very low to low. High-quality prospective studies with longer follow-up periods are needed.

RevDate: 2026-02-10
CmpDate: 2026-02-10

Karaçam Z, Ofei P, Uzunoğlu G, et al (2026)

The effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Archives of women's mental health, 29(1):37.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effect of prenatal education on the fear of childbirth among pregnant women based on previously conducted studies.

METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. The data were pooled through meta-analysis. ROBINS-I and RoB2 were used to assess the quality of the studies. The GRADE approach was used for evaluating the certainty of evidence.

RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 28 studies and the total sample size of the studies was 3073. The results showed that statistically, prenatal education significantly reduced the fear of childbirth during both the antepartum and postpartum period (SMD: -1.12, z = 9.14, p < 0.001; MD: -24.35, z = 6.18, p < 0.001 respectively). The meta-regression performed indicated that the study design, the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, data collection tools, the countries of the studies and features of education had no effect on the results of fear of childbirth in pregnancy. Moreover, the meta-analyses showed that prenatal education increased the likelihood of vaginal birth and the preference for vaginal birth approximately by two times and three times respectively (OR: 2.00, z = 4.82, p < 0.001; OR: 2.87, z = 3.89, p = 0.001 respectively). The certainty of evidence was low for fear of childbirth during pregnancy, moderate for fear of childbirth in the postpartum period and high for vaginal birth and preference for vaginal birth.

CONCLUSION: This study revealed that prenatal education was effective for reducing the fear of childbirth and therefore, increasing vaginal births.

REGISTRATION NUMBER: CCRD42022378547.

RevDate: 2026-02-10
CmpDate: 2026-02-10

Gomez Rial J, Redondo E, Rivero-Calle I, et al (2026)

Immunofitness in the elderly: The role of vaccination in promoting healthy aging.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 22(1):2624234.

Aging reshapes immunity through immunosenescence and inflammaging, increasing susceptibility to infection, exacerbating chronic conditions, and blunting vaccine responses. This review frames "immunofitness" as a practical goal of healthy aging and examines how adult vaccination builds immune resilience. Vaccination strengthens adaptive memory, leverages adjuvants to optimize antigen presentation, and can reprogramme innate cells (trained immunity), yielding heterologous benefits beyond target pathogens. We integrate evidence in older adults for influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, pneumococcal, COVID-19, and recombinant zoster vaccines, including reductions in respiratory events, cardiovascular outcomes, hospitalization, and mortality. We highlight emerging platforms and precision vaccinology to tailor schedules by immune age, comorbidity, and frailty. Integrating routine, age-appropriate vaccination with lifestyle measures is a feasible, high-impact strategy to promote immunofitness.

RevDate: 2026-02-09

Sommer I, Dobrescu A, Gadinger A, et al (2026)

Outpatient Treatment of Confirmed COVID-19: A Living, Rapid Review for the American College of Physicians (Version 3).

Annals of internal medicine [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Clinicians and patients need updated information on antiviral treatments for COVID-19.

PURPOSE: To provide a final update on the benefits and harms of COVID-19 antiviral treatments in adult outpatients.

DATA SOURCES: Ovid/MEDLINE, Epistemonikos COVID-19 L·OVE platform, and iSearch COVID-19 portfolio (22 January 2025); Ovid/MEDLINE (24 September 2025).

STUDY SELECTION: Two reviewers screened 20% of abstracts and full texts, then single screening. Randomized controlled trials were included for benefits and harms, and cohort studies were included for harms.

DATA EXTRACTION: One reviewer extracted data and assessed risk of bias and certainty of evidence (CoE); a second reviewer verified.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Seven studies from the Omicron period were included. 125 mg of ensitrelvir may not reduce time to recovery and may result in no difference in serious adverse events (both low CoE) but may increase adverse events (44.2% vs. 24.8%; low CoE). Molnupiravir probably improves recovery (31.8% vs. 22.6%) and reduces time to recovery (9 vs. 15 median days) and persistent symptoms from 3 to 6 months (8.5% vs. 11.0%), with no effect on mortality, hospitalization, serious adverse events, and adverse events (all moderate CoE). Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir may increase recovery (70.7% vs. 53.6%; low CoE) and reduce time to recovery (no data, P = 0.011; low CoE) but probably increases adverse events (1.3% vs. 1.0%; moderate CoE). Simnotrelvir-ritonavir reduces time to recovery (-35.8 median hours; high CoE) and probably increases adverse events (28.9% vs. 21.6%; moderate CoE). There was no difference in recovery between molnupiravir and favipiravir (high CoE) and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and molnupiravir (low CoE).

LIMITATION: Evidence for many outcomes is limited.

CONCLUSION: Three COVID-19 antivirals improved or accelerated recovery, with varying adverse event profiles. Molnupiravir probably offers long-term benefits.

PRIMARY FUNDING SOURCE: American College of Physicians. (PROSPERO: CRD420251029146; OSF: https://osf.io/ywp6u).

RevDate: 2026-02-09

Valabhji J (2026)

Banting memorial lecture 2025: Aligning clinical practice, policy and research.

Diabetic medicine : a journal of the British Diabetic Association [Epub ahead of print].

National clinical leadership, on a background of clinical practice and clinical research, provides unique perspectives. I have focused the Banting Memorial Lecture 2025 on the implementation of national programmes across England since 2013, for which, along with colleagues at NHS England, I successfully made the case for investment, led the implementation of interventions applied at scale across the country and used routinely collected healthcare data to demonstrate clinical effectiveness in the real world. Through specific examples of implemented programmes, including the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme and the NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme, I highlight important fundamental principles when making the case for, and implementing, national policy. First, ensure granular data collection to support evaluation and exploit data linkages to harness the power of real-world datasets. Second, where good evidence exists, implement evidence-based policy; where good evidence does not exist but political pressures to implement are being brought to bear, pilot and evaluate. Third, when the opportunity arises, rapidly translate new high-quality evidence into policy and practice. And fourth, support and protect the workload of healthcare professionals, particularly of those working in primary care. Then, through an epidemiological lens, I highlight: how the COVID-19 pandemic further unlocked the potential of national routinely collected electronic healthcare datasets; how, through application of these datasets, it has been possible to demonstrate improvements in diabetes complications and mortality through routine care delivery; and how it has been possible to demonstrate the next epidemiological transition in the global diabetes epidemic to multimorbidity/multiple long-term conditions.

RevDate: 2026-02-09

Sirohi A, Trivedi YV, Katoch T, et al (2026)

The resurgence of Tuberculosis in the United States: Health implications, pathophysiological and clinical insights, emerging trends, strategic responses, and post-COVID-19 challenges.

Chronic illness [Epub ahead of print].

ObjectivesTo address the challenges of tuberculosis (TB) control in the United States post-COVID-19, focusing on high-risk populations, current diagnostic and treatment strategies, and the importance of addressing clinical and social determinants of health to achieve TB elimination goals.MethodsA review of the latest evidence-based guidelines and literature on TB diagnostics, treatment regimens, and latent TB infection (LTBI) management was conducted. Key public health challenges and interventions targeting socioeconomic disparities, stigma, and healthcare access among high-risk populations were analyzed.ResultsHigh-risk groups, including immigrants and ethnic minorities, continue to bear a disproportionate burden of TB due to socioeconomic disparities and comorbidities. Advancements in diagnostic modalities and treatment regimens offer promising outcomes, but gaps remain in LTBI screening and management. Addressing social determinants, such as healthcare access and stigma, is essential for enhancing TB control efforts.DiscussionEffective TB elimination requires collaborative efforts among healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to implement evidence-based strategies. Prioritizing both clinical precision and social interventions is critical for overcoming barriers and achieving national TB control and elimination goals.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Sundaram ME (2026)

Vaccine safety for individuals receiving immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy: A narrative review of current literature and recommendations for future research.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 22(1):2607893.

Some individuals with cancer may receive immunomodulatory treatment such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). ICIs are now part of standard of care for many cancers and have improved survival for cancer patients. However, they are also associated with immune-related adverse events (irAEs), which can affect any organ or system, and can range from mild to severe. It has been hypothesized that vaccination of these individuals could increase the risk of irAEs or other vaccine-associated adverse events. This narrative review of 28 primary research articles presents findings from existing literature on vaccine safety for individuals receiving ICIs, and makes recommendations for future research on this topic. The existing evidence suggests that influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are safe for individuals receiving ICIs and do not pose additional risks of irAEs beyond baseline risks associated with ICI therapy.

RevDate: 2026-02-09

Garg RK, Jain A, Pandey S, et al (2026)

Infection-associated Opsoclonus: A Systematic Review.

Cerebellum (London, England), 25(1):16.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Sakkos A, Saint-John B, Tyml T, et al (2026)

Agnostic capture of pathogens for the detection and diagnostics of emerging threats.

iScience, 29(2):114684.

The continued emergence of pathogens, whether novel, re-emerging, or engineered, poses a persistent global biosecurity and public health challenge. Recent outbreaks, including COVID-19, Lassa fever, Marburg virus, mpox, and avian influenza, underscore the urgent need for robust systems that enable rapid surveillance, early diagnosis, and timely countermeasures before widespread human transmission occurs. In this article, we focus on early detection technologies and systematically evaluate current diagnostic and sensing modalities. We highlight sequencing and spectroscopy as two complementary approaches capable of providing broad, agnostic detection and rich biological insight. Our analysis emphasizes that scientific innovation alone is insufficient: effective preparedness also requires improved data curation, integration, and sharing to build AI-ready resources that accelerate future responses. We argue for coordinated advances in both technological capabilities and supporting infrastructure to enable the rapid identification and characterization of emerging pathogens and to fully leverage modern science against evolving infectious threats.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Lakhani HA, Baidya OP, Alex A, et al (2026)

New-Onset and Flare Episodes of Adult-Onset Still's Disease Following COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review of Published Case Reports.

Cureus, 18(1):e100889.

This systematic review provides a descriptive synthesis of published case reports documenting new-onset or flare episodes of adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) temporally occurring after COVID-19 vaccination. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar identified 13 eligible case reports published between 2020 and 2024. Because all available evidence consisted solely of individual case descriptions without comparator groups, the review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines and employed qualitative narrative synthesis rather than meta-analysis. Across the included cases, patients consistently presented with hallmark features of AOSD, including high spiking fever, arthritis or arthralgia, markedly elevated ferritin levels, and, in several instances, the characteristic salmon-colored rash. Symptom onset typically occurred within four to fifteen days following vaccination. Although these cases demonstrate recognisable clinical patterns, the absence of denominator data, lack of population-based studies, and inherent publication bias prevent estimation of incidence or risk, and no causal relationship with vaccination can be inferred. All reported patients responded favorably to corticosteroids, with some requiring biologic therapy for disease control. These findings highlight the importance of clinician awareness when evaluating persistent febrile or inflammatory symptoms in recently vaccinated individuals, while emphasising that COVID-19 vaccination remains overwhelmingly safe. Larger registries, pharmacovigilance data, and controlled studies are needed to clarify potential risk factors and guide future revaccination decisions.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Gil Arias BS, Blandón Andrade JC, Sidorov G, et al (2026)

Computational methods for the identification of suicidal ideation: a systematic review.

Frontiers in artificial intelligence, 9:1704818.

INTRODUCTION: Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among young people, to the extent that in many countries it is considered a public health issue. It is important to attempt to reduce the growth of this trend, especially among susceptible individuals, considering that it increased because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Natural language processing (NLP) provides various tools that allow for the analysis of texts to predict the presence of suicidal ideation. This work aims to conduct a systematic literature review to extract the computational techniques for identifying suicidal ideation in texts written in natural language.

METHODS: The PRISMA 2020 method was used, which was divided into nine phases, and three inclusion criteria and two exclusion criteria were established for the selection of studies. The searches were conducted through high-level academic databases such as Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Springer, and Web of Science. The risk of bias was assessed using AMSTAR 2. Potential biases identified include a lack of linguistic and cultural diversity and the predominance of data from social networks. A narrative synthesis was used to analyze and compare the findings qualitatively.

RESULTS: In the end, 25 studies related to computational methods for detecting suicidal ideation in texts written in natural language were identified. The techniques mainly focus on transformer-based models such as BERT and hybrid methods, which combine this architecture with neural networks such as CNN and LSTM. There are also approaches with hierarchical attention mechanisms. Some studies employed additional techniques such as feature extraction with TF-IDF and pre-trained embeddings to improve model performance.

DISCUSSION: Limitations in the evidence include the lack of linguistic and cultural diversity and the predominance of data from social networks. These results indicate that computational techniques have high potential to support early prevention strategies for suicidal ideation. However, expanding the diversity of linguistic contexts and improving understanding of the models among non-experts, such as physicians and other interested individuals, is necessary.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Liu S, Zhou T, Wang M, et al (2026)

Global landscape of mRNA vaccine clinical trials: a systematic analysis of ClinicalTrials.gov data.

Frontiers in public health, 14:1738942.

mRNA vaccines, as a novel vaccine platform, have rapidly become a global research hotspot driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study employs a systematic analysis method based on clinical trial registries to conduct a descriptive statistical analysis of mRNA vaccine-related trials registered in the ClinicalTrials.gov database from March 2000 to July 2025. We compared characteristics such as the number of trials, geographical distribution, study type, funding sources, trial design, and indications, and used chi-square tests and Fisher's exact tests for inter-group difference analysis. The results show that the number of mRNA vaccine clinical trials has experienced explosive growth after the pandemic, presenting obvious pandemic-driven characteristics and geographical differences. There are significant differences in registration characteristics and trial design among China, the United States, and Europe (p<0.01). Indications have rapidly expanded from infectious diseases to multiple fields such as tumors, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic diseases, indicating that mRNA technology is transforming from an infectious disease prevention tool into a platform technology with broad therapeutic potential. From the perspective of clinical trial registration, this study provides empirical evidence for understanding the global research status, regional strategy differences, and future development directions of mRNA vaccines. It offers insights for vaccine development planning, international regulatory coordination, and global clinical trial strategic planning, assisting researchers, enterprises, and policymakers in making optimal decisions.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Yang T, Hu Y, Y Bao (2026)

Psychological impact and intervention strategies for unaccompanied patients in pediatric intensive care units: a narrative review.

Translational pediatrics, 15(1):20.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: The pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is a high-stress medical environment. Family-Centered Care (FCC), which ensures parental presence and participation, is recognized as the standard of practice to mitigate psychological distress and trauma in critically ill children. However, infection control mandates [most notably during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic] and resource limitations often necessitate restrictive visitation policies, leaving children in an "unaccompanied" state. This separation from parents constitutes a significant deviation from the standard care model and poses a unique psychological risk. A systematic synthesis of the specific psychological impacts of this parental absence and adaptive strategies to effectively intervene within this context remains underdeveloped. This narrative review aims to analyze the primary psychological consequences of parental absence for children in the PICU and to explore the intervention strategies adapted to mitigate these effects.

METHODS: We reviewed journal articles from the past 15 years (2010-2024) that analyze and discuss the psychological impact and intervention strategies of unaccompanied patients in pediatric intensive care units.

KEY CONTENT AND FINDINGS: Our analysis indicates that an unaccompanied state is a significant, independent risk factor for psychological morbidity in PICU patients, markedly exacerbating separation anxiety, fear, loneliness, and depressive symptoms, which may also impede physiological recovery. Effective interventions must focus on mitigating the trauma of separation. The core strategy identified is "Virtual Family-Centered Care" (e.g., re-establishing family connection and participation in rounds via video technology). Other critical interventions include alternative socio-emotional support from the healthcare team (especially Child Life Specialists), professional psychological therapies, and environmental optimization to reduce threat perception.

CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that while parental presence is irreplaceable, PICUs must adopt innovative interventions, particularly technology-assisted virtual connections, to protect the psychological well-being of unaccompanied children whenever visitation is necessarily restricted.

RevDate: 2026-02-09

Zhang Z, Ong YH, Yang B, et al (2026)

Chemical engineering strategies to enhance mRNA-LNP stability for therapeutic applications.

Biomaterials science [Epub ahead of print].

The inception of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19 has catalyzed a transformative shift in the field of vaccination, offering expeditious, scalable, and potent countermeasures to a global health emergency. Despite significant advances, mRNA remains inherently unstable under physiological conditions due to its susceptibility to degradation by ubiquitous ribonucleases and physicochemical factors, making its storage, transport and clinical application challenging. This review explores the critical determinants influencing mRNA stability and discusses how chemical engineering strategies are suited to enhance mRNA stability, including 5' cap modification, poly(A) tail engineering, optimization of untranslated regions, as well as coding sequence refinements, reversible 2'-OH acylation, the development of circular RNA constructs and self-amplifying RNA systems. We also discuss efforts towards mRNA immunogenicity regulation and advanced mRNA delivery systems, along with progress in storage and transport solutions, which have further contributed to addressing stability concerns. Finally, we discuss the remaining challenges in clinical translation and provide forward-looking perspectives on emerging mRNA-based technologies.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Biswas R, Roy A, Kayal T, et al (2026)

Waning immunity and the future of booster vaccination strategies in global vaccine programs post COVID-19.

Human vaccines & immunotherapeutics, 22(1):2626088.

The problem of waning immunity is a major global concern of vaccine programs, with immunity against diseases such as COVID-19 (reduction in efficacy by ~25% in six months), pertussis (waning in 4-12 y), and influenza (annual updates needed) expected to decrease with time. While boosters reduce serious results in high-risk categories, these effects are short-term (4-6 months) and encourage global imbalances, where low-income areas lag in primary vaccination (<2%). Computational models have shown that primary vaccination in underserved regions prevents ~60% of hospitalizations worldwide, surpassing booster-focused measures (~47%). To maintain protection, variant-responsive boosters, rapid booster-design pipelines, universal vaccine platforms (including pan-coronavirus vaccines), and equity-based solutions (decentralized production) need to be integrated. Aligning with frameworks like the Immunization Agenda 2030 of the World Health Organization, plans should balance the expansion of high-risk groups while broadening primary access, providing infrastructure investment, and real-time surveillance to address evolving pathogens and systemic disparities.

RevDate: 2026-02-09
CmpDate: 2026-02-09

Hatchett RJ (2026)

Best Practices in Preparing for the Worst Case.

Disaster medicine and public health preparedness, 20:e34 pii:S1935789325102012.

The convergence of nuclear and radiological preparedness with epidemic and pandemic response, reveals valuable opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning and capability development. Insights from the extensive career of Dr. C. Norman Coleman illustrate how methodologies from radiation medical countermeasures can inform strategies for managing emerging infectious diseases. While nuclear incidents are infrequent, infectious disease outbreaks occur regularly, underscoring the need for sustained, adaptable capabilities to detect and respond to such threats. To draw on some examples, case studies on the development and deployment of vaccines against filoviruses highlight measurable advances in response speed and efficacy, while persistent challenges related to equitable access to medical countermeasures during public health emergencies can be addressed drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic. Iterative improvement, strategic planning and performance optimization is very important, as is, the value of understanding the structure of a problem to find its solution.

RevDate: 2026-02-09

Gauffin K (2026)

Who is worthy of protection? Revisiting a theoretical model on the social origins of health inequities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scandinavian journal of public health [Epub ahead of print].

AIMS: This article examines how the Diderichsen model has been used and adapted in research on health inequalities during COVID-19, and explores how the pandemic has prompted further theoretical development. This review therefore addresses the question of how a well-established theoretical framework has helped researchers understand pandemic-related health inequalities and what opportunities exist for its continued refinement.

METHODS: A narrative literature review was conducted using Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus. Included studies cited a key publication presenting the Diderichsen model and addressed COVID-19 as a central topic. After screening 298 articles, 24 were included for full analysis. The studies were categorised by how they engaged with the model - conceptually, empirically or through further development.

RESULTS: The Diderichsen model was commonly used to frame discussions of health inequality or to interpret pandemic-related disparities in exposure, vulnerability and outcomes. Several studies emphasised occupational and housing-related exposure, class-based comorbidities and the unequal social consequences of COVID-19. A smaller number of studies proposed expanded frameworks, incorporating multilevel and temporal dimensions and introducing new mechanisms related to pandemic responses. These adaptations often focused on migrants, ethnic minorities and other particularly affected groups.

CONCLUSIONS: The review confirms the ongoing relevance of the Diderichsen model in pandemic health inequality research. It argues that the model can be further strengthened by explicitly incorporating concepts of political decision-making, symbolic recognition and social justice. This would improve its capacity to capture the full complexity of health inequalities in times of crisis.

RevDate: 2026-02-08
CmpDate: 2026-02-08

Temte JL (2026)

Primary Care Clinics and Surveillance of Infectious Diseases.

Primary care, 53(1):17-29.

Public health surveillance for infectious diseases is highly compatible with the practice of primary care medicine and is enhanced by contextual and population-based elements when grounded in primary care. Moreover, there have been long and successful partnerships between primary care and public health for influenza monitoring. Surveillance programs can be based on sentinel, laboratory, or mechanistic approaches and need to reflect the needs of clinicians and the realities of the primary care environment. Participation in, and access to, surveillance information improves patient care through situational awareness, improving diagnostic acuity, and improving antimicrobial stewardship.

RevDate: 2026-02-08

Chen K, Xu Q, Li J, et al (2026)

Cytokine storm divergence in viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Cytokine & growth factor reviews, 88:108-123 pii:S1359-6101(26)00016-X [Epub ahead of print].

Cytokine storm (CS) is a pathological state of dysregulated, hyperactive host immunity that arises in the context of infection, malignancy, or immunotherapy. CS is characterized by the sustained, markedly elevated release of multiple pro-inflammatory mediators, ultimately leading to tissue damage and multi-organ dysfunction. Upper respiratory viral infections, including SARS, MERS, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), are among the most prominent CS triggers. Inflammatory storms triggered by different pathogens exhibit distinct variations in their cytokine profiles and downstream immune signaling pathways. Underlying comorbidities-such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease-together with complications such as coagulopathies and secondary infections, can profoundly alter both the threshold and the magnitude of the cytokine storm. This review systematically compares cytokine profiles elicited by distinct upper respiratory pathogens, with population stratification by age and underlying comorbidities, to clarify how these patterns relate to disease severity and complication risk. Collectively, the available evidence supports a shared inflammatory backbone across respiratory virus-induced cytokine storms, overlaid by pathogen-specific cytokine fingerprints and host-dependent plasticity that shapes clinical trajectories and outcomes.

RevDate: 2026-02-07

Shan Z, Li J, Ye Z, et al (2026)

Advances in human respiratory organoid models for studying the pathogenesis and intervention strategies of COVID-19.

Virologica Sinica pii:S1995-820X(26)00014-3 [Epub ahead of print].

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), affects multiple organ systems, with the respiratory system being the primary target. Respiratory organoids, which closely mimic the structure and function of the human respiratory tract, have emerged as essential tools for studying SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review summarizes current methods for generating various respiratory organoids, including nasal, tonsil, airway, bronchial, and alveolar organoids, and highlights their application in investigating the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 infection and evaluating potential therapeutic agents. Meanwhile, this review also introduces respiratory organoid-on-a-chip technology, which can precisely regulate culture conditions and incorporate vascularization and immune cells to enhance physiological complexity, thereby providing crucial support for investigating SARS-CoV-2-induced lung injury, immune responses, and conducting high-throughput drug screening. The aim of this review is to provide valuable insights for further research into the pathogenesis and intervention strategies of COVID-19.

RevDate: 2026-02-07

Honchar O, Мykhailenko O, Holovchenko O, et al (2026)

Pelargonium sidoides - from ethnopharmacology to evidence-based medicine: a systematic review.

Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology, 153:157880 pii:S0944-7113(26)00119-4 [Epub ahead of print].

BACKGROUND: Pelargonium sidoides DC. (Geraniaceae) has a long history of traditional use among indigenous peoples of Southern Africa for treating respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders. Its transformation into the modern pharmaceutical product Umckaloabo (EPs® 7630) exemplifies the transition from traditional medicine to evidence-based therapeutics.

PURPOSE: To provide a systematic analysis of P. sidoides, spanning from its botanical characteristics and ethnobotanical roots to its development as a regulated phytomedicine. The review focuses on the plant's unique phytochemical profile and provides a detailed synthesis of its molecular and systems-biological mechanisms of action, cultivation sustainability, and clinical efficacy in managing respiratory tract infections.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library up to December 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Sources included scientific articles, pharmacopoeias, patents, and ethnobotanical records in English and Ukrainian.

RESULTS: The systematic synthesis of identified records characterizes the chemical diversity of P. sidoides, focusing on specialized metabolites such as highly substituted benzopyranones, prodelphinidins, and unique coumarin sulfates. The review discusses modern cultivation practices, sustainability issues, and comparative extraction techniques, while analytical methods such as HPLC, LC-MS, and TLC for standardization are summarized. The pharmacological profile is defined by multi-target activity, encompassing immunomodulatory, antibacterial, and antiviral effects, including studies on SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory pathogens. Analysis of available clinical data validates the therapeutic use of P. sidoides root preparations for managing acute bronchitis, rhinosinusitis, and tonsillopharyngitis.

CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that the integration of P. sidoides into modern healthcare is supported by the synergy between traditional knowledge and molecular and clinical validation. By mapping the developmental trajectory - from wild harvesting to systems-biological evidence - this review identifies P. sidoides as a model for the pharmaceutical translation of ethnobotanical resources into standardized, evidence-based phytomedicines.

RevDate: 2026-02-07

Hu Q, Mai Z, Wang B, et al (2026)

Trained Immunity Empowers Vaccine Design and Application.

ACS infectious diseases [Epub ahead of print].

The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed the limitations of traditional vaccine development models: these approaches rely excessively on pathogen-specific antigen design, feature lengthy development cycles, and struggle to address threats from rapidly mutating pathogens and emerging pathogens. Even before the pandemic, certain traditional vaccines (such as BCG) demonstrated "cross-protection" effects beyond their target diseases. The trained immunity (TRIM) theory offers a promising path to develop broad-spectrum, effective, and durable vaccines. This review summarizes core advances in TRIM within vaccinology, systematically outlining vaccine design strategies based on this concept for the first time. These strategies encompass vaccine-mediated cross-protection, methods to enhance vaccine potency and persistence, pathways to achieve broad-spectrum effects, and regulatory characteristics involving immune recognition, antigen delivery, safety, and tolerability. This study explores the synergistic effects and application prospects of TRIM adjuvants such as β-glucan and Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. The impact of transgenerational immune effects on offspring immune function provides a crucial direction for future research. It also highlights current limitations in studies regarding persistence, individual variability, and risks of excessive inflammation. Existing vaccines capable of inducing TRIM will inspire next-generation vaccine development. Innovative applications of this vaccine category can propel the advancement of trained immunity-based vaccines (TIbVs). This review proposes an innovative approach─the "Vaccine Immunity Foundation Hypothesis." This lays the groundwork for designing next-generation vaccines and advancing the clinical translation of TRIM therapies, establishing a theoretical foundation for developing broad-spectrum, highly effective, durable, and safe immune protection strategies.

RevDate: 2026-02-07

Asis A, Rodríguez A, Reyes LF, et al (2026)

The double threat: bacterial and fungal co-/superinfection in viral pneumonia.

Expert review of respiratory medicine [Epub ahead of print].

INTRODUCTION: Respiratory viral pneumonias are a leading cause of severe respiratory failure and intensive care unit (ICU) admission worldwide. Although viral infection itself drives significant morbidity and mortality, secondary bacterial and fungal superinfections represent a critical 'double threat' in critically ill adults, exacerbating lung injury, prolonging organ dysfunction, and complicating antimicrobial management. Experience from the Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 and SARS-CoV-2 pandemics highlights a persistent mismatch between low documented bacterial co-infection rates and widespread empiric antibiotic exposure, underscoring diagnostic uncertainty and antimicrobial stewardship challenges in the ICU.

AREAS COVERED: This review examines the epidemiology, immunopathogenesis, and diagnostic approaches to bacterial and fungal superinfection in adult ICU patients with severe viral pneumonia. Evidence is synthesized from large ICU cohorts, pandemic data, and established consensus definitions for influenza- and COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (IAPA, CAPA). The review discusses advances in molecular diagnostics, lower respiratory tract sampling, bronchoalveolar lavage - based mycology, and biomarker-guided strategies, with a focused literature search of ICU-specific studies.

EXPERT OPINION: Bacterial and fungal superinfections, while infrequent, carry substantial clinical impact in severe viral pneumonia. A multimodal, ICU-adapted diagnostic strategy integrating pathogen detection with host-response assessment is essential to support timely therapy, enable antimicrobial de-escalation, and align superinfection management with stewardship principles.

RevDate: 2026-02-06

Wang Y, Zhao F, Zhao Q, et al (2026)

Cell entry mechanisms of porcine enteric coronaviruses.

The Journal of biological chemistry pii:S0021-9258(26)00120-1 [Epub ahead of print].

Porcine enteric coronaviruses, including transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), and porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV), cause severe watery diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and high mortality in piglets, leading to enormous economic losses in the swine industry worldwide. They have the capability to infect a variety of cell lines from pigs, humans, and other animals, with high risks of interspecies transmission and potential threats to public health. These viruses employ their spike glycoproteins to engage with various receptors, coreceptors, cofactors, and other host factors that further mediate membrane fusion to accomplish the entry process. This review summarizes the recent findings regarding the pathways, receptors, coreceptors, cofactors, and other host factors utilized by TGEV, PEDV, SADS-CoV, and PDCoV for cellular entry. Several important targets for antiviral therapeutics and some key aspects of the entry process for these viruses that await discovery are highlighted. A comprehensive understanding of the entry mechanisms of porcine enteric coronaviruses will provide new insight into the development of novel antiviral therapeutic strategies.

RevDate: 2026-02-06

Labied S, Atifi F, Wahnou H, et al (2026)

Megakaryocytes and afucosylated IgG in post-acute COVID-19: Bridging immune dysregulation and vascular pathology - A narrative review.

Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie, 196:119049 pii:S0753-3322(26)00081-8 [Epub ahead of print].

Post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), also referred to as long COVID, encompasses a constellation of persistent symptoms lasting for at least three months after acute SARS-CoV-2 infection and not explained by alternative diagnoses. The multifactorial pathophysiology underlying PASC remains incompletely understood, limiting the development of effective management strategies. Increasing evidence suggests that both immune dysregulation and hemostatic imbalance play central roles in post-COVID-19 complications. Megakaryocytes, key regulators of platelet production and coagulation, have emerged as potential contributors to sustained thrombo-inflammatory processes following SARS-CoV-2 infection. In parallel, afucosylated IgG antibodies have been strongly implicated in exaggerated immune activation and hyperinflammatory responses during acute COVID-19. The persistence of such antibody glycosylation patterns beyond the acute phase raises the possibility that they may also contribute to chronic immune and vascular alterations observed in PASC. This narrative review explores the potential interplay between megakaryocyte dysfunction and afucosylated IgG antibodies in the pathogenesis of PASC. By examining mechanisms identified during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, we discuss how prolonged immune-hemostatic crosstalk may promote persistent inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and microvascular abnormalities. Understanding these interconnected pathways may provide mechanistic insight into the heterogeneity of PASC manifestations and help identify novel therapeutic targets for long-term post-COVID-19 sequelae.

LOAD NEXT 100 CITATIONS

RJR Experience and Expertise

Researcher

Robbins holds BS, MS, and PhD degrees in the life sciences. He served as a tenured faculty member in the Zoology and Biological Science departments at Michigan State University. He is currently exploring the intersection between genomics, microbial ecology, and biodiversity — an area that promises to transform our understanding of the biosphere.

Educator

Robbins has extensive experience in college-level education: At MSU he taught introductory biology, genetics, and population genetics. At JHU, he was an instructor for a special course on biological database design. At FHCRC, he team-taught a graduate-level course on the history of genetics. At Bellevue College he taught medical informatics.

Administrator

Robbins has been involved in science administration at both the federal and the institutional levels. At NSF he was a program officer for database activities in the life sciences, at DOE he was a program officer for information infrastructure in the human genome project. At the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, he served as a vice president for fifteen years.

Technologist

Robbins has been involved with information technology since writing his first Fortran program as a college student. At NSF he was the first program officer for database activities in the life sciences. At JHU he held an appointment in the CS department and served as director of the informatics core for the Genome Data Base. At the FHCRC he was VP for Information Technology.

Publisher

While still at Michigan State, Robbins started his first publishing venture, founding a small company that addressed the short-run publishing needs of instructors in very large undergraduate classes. For more than 20 years, Robbins has been operating The Electronic Scholarly Publishing Project, a web site dedicated to the digital publishing of critical works in science, especially classical genetics.

Speaker

Robbins is well-known for his speaking abilities and is often called upon to provide keynote or plenary addresses at international meetings. For example, in July, 2012, he gave a well-received keynote address at the Global Biodiversity Informatics Congress, sponsored by GBIF and held in Copenhagen. The slides from that talk can be seen HERE.

Facilitator

Robbins is a skilled meeting facilitator. He prefers a participatory approach, with part of the meeting involving dynamic breakout groups, created by the participants in real time: (1) individuals propose breakout groups; (2) everyone signs up for one (or more) groups; (3) the groups with the most interested parties then meet, with reports from each group presented and discussed in a subsequent plenary session.

Designer

Robbins has been engaged with photography and design since the 1960s, when he worked for a professional photography laboratory. He now prefers digital photography and tools for their precision and reproducibility. He designed his first web site more than 20 years ago and he personally designed and implemented this web site. He engages in graphic design as a hobby.

cover-pic

Support this website:
Order from Amazon
We will earn a commission.

With the world now in the middle of a new and rapidly spreading pandemic, now is the time to read this book, originally published in 2012, that describes animal infections and the next human pandemic (that's actually the book's subtitle). You would be hard pressed to find a more relevant explanation of how this got started and why there will be more after this one. R. Robbins

963 Red Tail Lane
Bellingham, WA 98226

206-300-3443

E-mail: RJR8222@gmail.com

Collection of publications by R J Robbins

Reprints and preprints of publications, slide presentations, instructional materials, and data compilations written or prepared by Robert Robbins. Most papers deal with computational biology, genome informatics, using information technology to support biomedical research, and related matters.

Research Gate page for R J Robbins

ResearchGate is a social networking site for scientists and researchers to share papers, ask and answer questions, and find collaborators. According to a study by Nature and an article in Times Higher Education , it is the largest academic social network in terms of active users.

Curriculum Vitae for R J Robbins

short personal version

Curriculum Vitae for R J Robbins

long standard version

RJR Picks from Around the Web (updated 11 MAY 2018 )