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Hemasphere. 2026 May 29;10(6):e70381. doi: 10.1002/hem3.70381. eCollection 2026 Jun.

ABSTRACT

Thalassemia and sickle cell disease (SCD) are among the most common monogenic disorders worldwide. They cause chronic hemolytic anemia, the consequences and prognosis of which vary considerably depending on the genetic characteristics of patients and the healthcare system in their country of residence. Both diseases are autosomal recessive in their transmission, with carriers generally being asymptomatic. Informing carriers of thalassemia or SCD about reproductive risks and choices, while taking into account cultural and religious considerations, is a priority within global strategies to improve outcomes for these diseases. The European Hematology Association (EHA)'s Topic In Focus (TIF) Hemoglobinopathies Group created a focus group of hematologists, patients, anthropologists, and an obstetrician from Europe, the Middle East, India, and Africa. The Group considered that preconceptual screening tests would correspond to tests conducted before pregnancy (screening for carriers before marriage/conception), antenatal screening referred to tests completed on pregnant women, and prenatal diagnosis referred to tests performed on the fetus. It proposed guidelines addressing optimal timing of screening, appropriate laboratory tests, and communication strategies, taking into account the great diversity of regions and cultures where thalassemia and SCD are present. A main discussion point was that no recommendations would be given for couples about reproductive decisions, and that the aim was to present the existing and available options in different countries. Eight questions were examined using available literature, leading to the formulation of seven recommendations, which were submitted to a vote using the Delphi method. Consensus agreement was obtained for all recommendations.

PMID:42255946 | PMC:PMC13240542 | DOI:10.1002/hem3.70381

New ‘universal vaccine’ technology could protect us from future virus outbreaks

A Cambridge-led team has developed a way to engineer better vaccines that could provide broad protection from thousands of variants of viruses - such as coronaviruses or Ebola - in a single vaccine. This represents a fundamental new vaccine technology that could prevent future pandemics before they begin.

Jacqueline Garget Fri, 06/05/2026 - 00:00

FIVE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE TO START ON TUESDAY 01 DECEMBER 2026 FOR A DURATION OF 12.5 MONTHS.

SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: £21,970.00 (TAX EXEMPT) per annum. University accommodation package, see details below.

Applications are invited for this one-year post-graduate training programme based in the Queen's Veterinary School Small Animal Hospital. On site accommodation is available for £300 per month including bills.

Junior Clinical Training Scholars will receive training and tuition as they rotate through anaesthesia, cardiology, diagnostic imaging, orthopaedics, dermatology, internal medicine, neurology, oncology, clinical pathology and soft tissue surgery and be supervised by recognised specialists in each field. Scholars will also have responsibility for primary care cases, and be involved in supervision and guidance of final year veterinary students. Scholars will be an integral part of the out of hours care of animals within the hospital, especially within the intensive care unit.

Summary of benefits:

High residency success rate - 72% of our interns have gone on to do a residency and 97% of interns who have been pursuing a residency have successfully achieved a residency or completed a specialist internship programme. We have 60 successful residency applications from intern cohorts 2015-2022 and 29 diplomates, since 2015!

Competitive tax-free stipend including accommodation in Central Cambridge and bills included package

Truly rotating internship through all specialties including flexibility to pursue extra time in rotations of your choice with 4 weeks of internal electives!

Good work-life balance with manageable weekend and night work. Recovery week after nights.

University library and journal access

Monthly seminars with complimentary food and drink!

Academic opportunities, e.g. teach Cambridge students during rotations and College supervision opportunities; weekly department research and clinical seminars; journal and book clubs

Proven track-record with publications and research projects with guidance on presentation and scientific writing skills.

Assigned intern supervisor: - regular progress meetings, interview practice, provision of professional references and CV/cover letter proof reading by experienced senior clinicians to aid residency applications

Generous CPD allowance and encouragement to present at scientific meetings

RECOVER CPR training

First opinion service including surgical cases

A number of service-specific internships and residency opportunities encourage career progression following internship

Candidates must be Members of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the following skills and experience are desirable:

Surgical experience in dogs and cats

At least one year's experience in a UK-based small animal primary care practice where you have gained knowledge of UK veterinary regulations and practices

For applicants for whom English is not their first language, a score of 7.5 in IELTS (with no element under 7), or a score of 100 in TOEFL (with no element less than 24).

For further benefits and details on the Internship: https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/study/cts/jcts1/smallanimal

A JCTS Application Form (JCTS 1) and Information Pack can be downloaded from the following website: https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/job

Informal enquiries should be directed to the Internship Directors, by email: internship.enquiries@vet.cam.ac.uk.

Applicants should supply a completed Junior Clinical Training Scholarship Application Form (JCTS 1), a CV and Covering Letter giving reasons for wishing to undertake the JCTS in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge.

Applications should be submitted via e-mail to vetmed@vet.cam.ac.uk with the above documents as one attachment, by the closing date stated.

Applications will be monitored regularly, and we may contact candidates prior to the closing date. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications or extend the closing date if necessary. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Please note: The ability to take up this Scholarship is contingent upon you being able to evidence your right to work in the UK, or through gaining the right to work via the UK immigration system. Evidence will need to be provided before an offer can be made. Regrettably, this Scholarship is not suitable for sponsorship via the Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa routes as the minimum requirements cannot be met.

Other visa options may be available depending on your individual circumstances. Further information can be found on the UK Government website: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas. All visa related costs are the responsibility of the applicant. These charges will not be reimbursed by the University, regardless of the outcome of the application.

Please quote reference PP49873 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

The Project: This 3 year PhD project is embedded in the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Vaccines & Immunisation, a collaboration between the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), University College London (UCL) and the University of Cambridge.

Based at the University of Cambridge and supervised by Professor Caroline Trotter, the student who should have or should expect to obtain a minimum of a UK 2:1 Honours Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject, will work closely with colleagues at UKHSA and other members of the HPRU.

The student will develop a framework for making decisions about vaccines that more formally considers the effect on the immunisation programme as a whole. They will then apply this draft framework to specific case studies and assess whether and how decision-making could be influenced, leading to further refinement.

The student will develop skills in infectious disease epidemiology, mathematical modelling of vaccine preventable diseases and health economics. The public are ultimately the 'vaccine consumers' and as such should be involved in framing and shaping vaccine research, so the student should also develop and execute a plan for public involvement and engagement.

Funding: Funding will be available to cover fees at the home fee rate plus a tax-free student maintenance starting at £20,199 for three years. This PhD is supported by the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Immunisation and covers research costs in addition to home fees and maintenance. Start Date: January 2027 How to apply: Contact the Supervisor to discuss the project before submitting an official application.
Deadline to apply: 10th July 2026 (shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview before end of July 2026)
More info: on application process here: How to apply ' Department of Veterinary Medicine

How to apply: Contact the Supervisor to discuss the project before submitting an official application. More info on applying here: https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/study/postgrad/apply

Please quote reference PP49859 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Vet Rec. 2026 May/Jun 30;198(11):483-484. doi: 10.1002/vetr.70837.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:42212810 | DOI:10.1002/vetr.70837

SENIOR CLINICAL TRAINING SCHOLARSHIP (RESIDENCY) IN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY OR JUNIOR CLINICAL TRAINING SCHOLARSHIP (INTERNSHIP) IN VETERINARY ONCOLOGY

SENIOR CLINICAL TRAINING SCHOLARSHIP AWARD IS £29,600.00

JUNIOR CLINICAL TRAINING SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: £21,970.00 (TAX EXEMPT) PER ANNUM, INCLUSIVE OF AN ACCOMMODATION PACKAGE

We are pleased to invite applications for a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship (SCTS) in Medical Oncology. This Senior Clinical Training Scholarship provides an outstanding opportunity to study for a postgraduate qualification in Medical Oncology and is available to start on Monday 3 August 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. The Scholarship will provide a solid foundation in all aspects of small animal medical oncology, including experience in radiation therapy, internal medicine, cardiology, soft tissue surgery, neurology, clinical pathology and gross pathology. The Queens Veterinary School Hospital is an approved training centre for both medical and radiation oncology. The main aim is to prepare the candidate for the examination for the European Diploma in Small Animal Oncology.

The Scholarship is for one year in the first instance, renewable for periods of one year up to a total of three years. It is subject to an initial monitoring period of six months, and to review on a bi-annual basis.

The training programme requires participation in the Department's clinical service, including the out-of-hours rota and first opinion practice, in addition to small-group teaching of veterinary students.

Applicants must be a Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, or hold a veterinary degree qualifying them for membership. Completion of a recognised internship or a minimum of two years' experience in small animal practice is essential.

If we do not receive applicants who meet the essential criteria and/or have the relevant experience for the Senior Clinical Training Scholarship we will consider appointing to a Junior Clinical Training Scholarship (JCTS) in Veterinary Oncology. This is a one-year post-graduate training programme offering high-quality, post- graduate training in Veterinary oncology. The emphasis will be on gaining practical clinical experience in Oncology under the supervision of board-certified diplomates and will further prepare the candidate to embark on and successfully complete a 3-year Residency Training Programme in Veterinary Oncology with the goal of becoming an EBVS recognised specialist in this field.

Informal enquiries should be directed to Jane Dobson or Alison Hayes via email: oncology@vet.cam.ac.uk

An information pack for the SCTS in Medical Oncology, an information pack for the JCTS in Veterinary Oncology, and a Scholarship Application form can all be downloaded from the following website: https://www.cam.ac.uk/jobs/term/Department-of-Veterinary-Medicine

Applicants should supply a completed Scholarship Application Form, Curriculum Vitae and Covering Letter giving reasons for wishing to undertake the SCTS or JCTS in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge.

Applications should be submitted via e-mail to vetmed@vet.cam.ac.uk with the above documents as one attachment, by the closing date stated.

Interviews will be held on Tuesday 23 June 2026

Please quote reference PP49827 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

Lancet Planet Health. 2027 Mar 3:101445. doi: 10.1016/j.lanplh.2026.101445. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) emerges primarily through antibiotic exposure and the resulting selection pressure, but climate change is likely to accelerate the dissemination of AMR, particularly for zoonotic diseases, such as those caused by Salmonella. However, the link between climatic factors and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) carried by Salmonella remains poorly characterised. This longitudinal ecological study aimed to link climate change to ARGs using multiple regression models.

METHODS: We analysed a comprehensive dataset of 488 232 Salmonella genomes and multiple potential predictors from 139 countries or regions over the period 1940-2023. Robustness was verified via Tobit and generalised additive models. Climate-related changes of average ARG abundance in Salmonella were quantified through counterfactual scenarios. Future ARG trends were projected to 2100 using integrated Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) with Representative Concentration Pathways scenarios (SSP1-1.9, SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5).

FINDINGS: The global average ARG abundance in Salmonella has increased by 38% (0·50 copies per cell) in the time period considered. Multiple regression models revealed that variability in ARGs follows a non-linear quadratic response to temperature and precipitation. Climate change is associated with a 10% (95% CI 5·4-13·3) global rise in the abundance of Salmonella ARGs, with increases observed in 82 (82%) of 100 countries. By 2100, the emergence of ARGs is projected to be further intensified by warming; however, achieving low-emission (SSP1-2.6) targets alongside strengthened antibiotic stewardship programmes could reduce Salmonella ARGs by 24% (95% CI 21-29) as compared with high-emission scenarios (SSP5-8.5).

INTERPRETATION: This study provides global evidence linking climate change to ARG dynamics in Salmonella. Warming and shifting precipitation patterns are associated with rising ARG abundance and are projected to further exacerbate AMR risks under high-emission scenarios (SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5). These findings highlight the need to integrate climate considerations into AMR surveillance and stewardship, providing a quantitative basis for climate-informed strategies to restrict future resistance escalation.

FUNDING: National Key Research and Development Program of China, the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China, and Beijing Municipal Sci-Tech Project on Ecology and Environment.

PMID:42190676 | DOI:10.1016/j.lanplh.2026.101445

SCHOLARSHIP AWARD: £21,970.00 (TAX EXEMPT) per annum. On site accommodation is available for £300 per month including bills.

Duration of scholarship: 12 months

The Department seeks to recruit a Junior Clinical Training Scholar (JCTS) in Small Animal Surgery and Anaesthesia from Tuesday 1 September 2026, or as soon as possible after that date, in order to enhance provision of the Small Animal Surgical and Anaesthesia services and undergraduate teaching.

You will help to facilitate the smooth running of the Small Animal Soft Tissue and Orthopaedic Surgery services by supporting the team with all aspects of the work-up, diagnosis and management of small animal surgical patients, helping with scheduling of appointments, preparation for and assisting with surgeries, and the post-surgical aftercare and discharge of the patients. You will contribute to the Anaesthesia service by assisting with sedations and anaesthesia of the wide range of surgical and medical patients seen at the Queen's Veterinary School Hospital and including the critical care unit. You will support final-year veterinary students during their small animal surgery and anaesthesia rotations.

The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of the Small Animal Surgical and Anaesthesia Services and will be required to participate in the practical instruction of veterinary students and a weekend / weeknight on call rota within the Hospital. This is an opportunity to develop your clinical and organisational skills, knowledge of small animal soft tissue and orthopaedic surgery, knowledge of anaesthesia and critical care, and to gain experience as a clinical teacher of final year veterinary students in a well-equipped and encouraging academic environment. The Internship will offer an excellent opportunity to prepare for Specialist training, such as a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship (Residency) in Small Animal Surgery or Anaesthesia.

Candidates must be members of the RCVS and have at least 12 months' experience in companion animal practice. Candidates with some pre-existing experience in small animal surgery and / or anaesthesia or who have completed a rotating Small Animal Internship will be preferred.

We would welcome anyone wishing to apply for this scholarship to arrange a visit to the hospital to meet the team and find out more. To arrange a visit to the hospital and for informal enquiries about the scholarship programme, please contact Julia Riggs (Soft Tissue Surgery: jr393@cam.ac.uk) or Alice Bird (Anaesthesia: arb59@cam.ac.uk).

Summary of benefits

• Competitive tax-free stipend with heavily subsidized accommodation and bills in Central Cambridge
• Good work-life balance with manageable weekend and night work
• University library and journal access
• 2 weeks of elective/dedicated research time on top of holidays
• Academic opportunities, e.g. teaching Cambridge students during rotations and College supervision opportunities; weekly department research and clinical seminars; journal and book clubs
• Proven track-record with publications and research projects with guidance on presentation and scientific writing skills.
• Assigned intern supervisor: - regular progress meetings, interview practice, provision of professional references and CV/cover letter proof reading by experienced senior clinicians to aid residency applications
• Generous CPD allowance and encouragement to present at scientific meetings

An application form (JCTS1) and information pack can be downloaded from the link below or via the following website: http://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/job

Applicants should supply a completed Junior Clinical Training Scholarship Application Form (JCTS 1), a CV and Covering Letter giving reasons for wishing to undertake the JCTS in the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge.

Applications should be submitted via e-mail to: vetmed@vet.cam.ac.uk with the above documents as one attachment, by the closing date stated.

For more information about the Department and the role please visit www.vet.cam.ac.uk

Closing date for applications: Midnight on Thursday 11 June 2026

Interviews for the Scholarship will be held w/c Monday 22 June 2026.

Please note: The ability to take up this Scholarship is contingent upon you being able to evidence your right to work in the UK, or through gaining the right to work via the UK immigration system. Evidence will need to be provided before an offer can be made. Regrettably, this Scholarship is not suitable for sponsorship via the Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa routes as the minimum requirements cannot be met.

Other visa options may be available depending on your individual circumstances. Further information can be found on the UK Government website: https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas. All visa related costs are the responsibility of the applicant. These charges will not be reimbursed by the University, regardless of the outcome of the application.

Lancet Microbe. 2027 Feb 10:101389. doi: 10.1016/j.lanmic.2026.101389. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The human gut microbiome shows dynamic variation throughout the lifespan and remarkable spatial organisation within the gastrointestinal tract. Complementing the focus of the first paper of this Series on the human microbiome dynamics and health, which focused on the temporal dynamics of the human gut microbiome, this second Series paper explores its biogeographical signatures, which often reflect distinct physiological niches in gastrointestinal tract regions. The spatial architecture of the gut microbiome is shaped by various factors and has important clinical implications for host homoeostasis, health, and disease. In this Series paper, we discuss current knowledge on the microbial biogeography along the gastrointestinal tract, the factors governing these spatial patterns, and their functional consequences for the host. We further focus on host-microbe interactions mediated by microbial metabolites and their impact on host health. Finally, we summarise the methodological advances that are enabling in-situ high-resolution spatial mapping of the gut microbiome as crucial tools for unravelling the detailed mechanisms of host-microbiome crosstalk. Overall, understanding the principles that govern the spatial ecology of the gut microbiome can inform the development of novel therapies designed to precisely manipulate microbial niches and restore homoeostasis along the gastrointestinal tract, thereby improving human health.

PMID:42167295 | DOI:10.1016/j.lanmic.2026.101389

Lancet Microbe. 2027 Feb 10:101388. doi: 10.1016/j.lanmic.2026.101388. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The colonisation of the human gut microbiome commences at birth and continues to evolve throughout the lifespan. A balanced symbiotic relationship between the host and gut microbiome is essential for maintaining overall health. This two-part Series presents a comprehensive overview of the gut microbiome across temporal and spatial dimensions, considering diurnal, seasonal, and lifespan variations while covering the entire gastrointestinal tract. We also discuss the extrinsic and intrinsic factors that shape the microbial ecosystem and affect host homoeostasis, health, and disease susceptibility. In this first Series paper, we summarise current knowledge on the microbial succession and evolutionary trajectory of the gut microbiome from neonates to adults aged 100 years and older, subsequently focusing on diurnal rhythms and seasonal patterns. We then discuss how these temporal variations in the gut microbiome are determined and how they contribute to beneficial or detrimental health outcomes in the host. Overall, elucidating the multiscale temporal dynamics of the human gut microbiome will open crucial opportunities to expand knowledge of host-microbiome interactions and their biological and clinical implications.

PMID:42167294 | DOI:10.1016/j.lanmic.2026.101388

J Am Chem Soc. 2026 May 21. doi: 10.1021/jacs.6c05686. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

London dispersion forces between alkyl groups can give rise to "steric attraction"─a promising molecular design principle. The scope and magnitude of this attraction are subject to intense debate, however, along with its ability to outweigh competing effects. Here, we describe a system of four tetrahedral M4LR4 cages (M = FeII or ZnII, R = Me or Et), each confining 12 R groups within the cavity. These cages clearly demonstrate how steric attraction can dictate cage stereochemistry and stability─both in solution and in the gas phase─at the expense of other driving forces. The observed trends align with the optimization of London dispersion between the confined alkyl groups, predominating over criteria of steric hindrance, strain, solvophobic effects, and metal-ligand bond strength. These differences in stability manifested during the self-sorting of a mixture containing two metals and two ligands into cages that feature optimal alkyl-alkyl contacts, despite the entropic preference for a statistical mixture. This work thus establishes metal-organic cages as a promising platform to study London dispersion forces.

PMID:42166370 | DOI:10.1021/jacs.6c05686

Salary - £23,934.67 (pro rata for 0.95 FTE) + 15% Shift Allowance = £27,524.87 per annum.

This equates to an hourly rate of £13.24 plus a 15% shift allowance.

Temporary cover: This post is fixed-term until 4 September 2026 or the return of the post holder, whichever is the earlier.

We have an exciting opportunity for someone to join us as a 24/7 Veterinary Care Assistant in our Small Animal Wing on a temporary basis. The referral hospital is a very fast-paced environment working with complex and seriously ill animals. The temporary role will begin as soon as possible on a fixed-term basis until 4 September 2026 or the return of the post holder, whichever is the earlier.

The main objective of the role is to provide animal care to an excellent standard for the Queen's Veterinary School referral Hospital, to meet the needs of the service in the Small Animal Wing. The small animal wing consists of four dog, two cat, critical care, isolation wards housing an average of 15-25 patients during the overnight period and Theatre Suite.

You will play an important part in a primary care team working alongside nurses and other veterinary care assistants. Responsibilities will include cleaning and animal care duties in order to assist veterinary nurses in the inpatient area and in theatres.

In return, we offer an encouraging and nurturing environment and have a dedicated team of clinicians, nurses and veterinary care assistants who are committed to providing the best care for our patients.

Benefits

• Generous paid annual leave including bank holidays
• Defined benefit pension scheme
• Enhanced family friendly policies
• Access to a dedicated Personal and Professional Development team
• Wellness programme including Occupational Health team and Staff counselling
• Staff discount scheme including shopping vouchers
• Cycle to work scheme
• Travel to work loans
• Eye care voucher scheme
• Discounted gym membership

If you have any questions about this role please contact the Clinical HR Team by email: qvsh.hr@vet.cam.ac.uk. Please quote reference PP49382 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

Further particulars for the role and information about the Department are available at: www.vet.cam.ac.uk

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Closing date: Thursday, 04 June 2026

Applications will be monitored regularly, and we may contact candidates prior to the closing date. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.

J Infect. 2026 May 18:106759. doi: 10.1016/j.jinf.2026.106759. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Coronaviruses such as SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and related Sarbeco-Coronaviruses continue to pose global health threats, underscoring the need for vaccines capable of inducing broad cross-sarbecovirus protection. The pEVAC-PS vaccine was developed using Digitally Immune Optimised Synthetic Vaccine (DIOSynVax) technology and pre-clinically selected for the ability to induce broadly protective immune responses across the Sarbecoviruses including SARS, SARS-CoV-2, and related viruses representing potential zoonotic spillovers. For this first-in-human study, the antigen was delivered as a DNA vaccine to enable thermostability and needle-free intradermal administration to support future deployment in resource-limited settings.

METHODS: This open label phase I dose escalation study investigated the safety, tolerability and immunogenicity of the pEVAC-PS vaccine candidate against SARS, SARS-CoV-2 and related Sarbeco Coronaviruses via needle-free intra-dermal delivery using the PharmaJet Tropis Device. Healthy volunteers aged 18 to 50 who had received two or three prior doses of COVID-19 vaccine, and without recent confirmed COVID-19 infection, were enrolled sequentially to receive a dose escalation regime of 0.2mg, 0.4mg, 0.8mg, and 1.2mg of pEVAC-PS, administered at day zero and day 28. The primary outcomes were safety and reactogenicity, documented by solicited and unsolicited adverse events, serious adverse events and adverse events of special interest. Secondary outcomes were immunogenicity measured primarily by humoral responses to SARS-CoV-1 and SARS-CoV-2 antigens at day 56 (28 days after the second dose of vaccine). International Clinical Trials Registry Platform registered, ISRCTN87813400.

FINDINGS: Between December 2021 and September 2023, a total of 39 volunteers were vaccinated. The vaccine was well tolerated at all four doses with no significant safety concerns elicited. Interpretation of immunogenicity outcomes was influenced by high baseline antibody levels and heterogeneous exposure histories due to ongoing waves of Omicron variant infections during recruitment, which differed across dose-escalation cohorts and introduced unavoidable immune bias.

INTERPRETATION: Needle-free intradermal delivery of this novel computationally designed PanSarbeco vaccine was safe and well tolerated. Although immunogenicity was modest in the context of substantial pre-existing immunity, participants developed measurable responses to conserved, vaccine-encoded sarbecovirus epitopes, supporting the feasibility of this antigen design strategy.

PMID:42155675 | DOI:10.1016/j.jinf.2026.106759

PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 2026 May 18;20(5):e0013343. doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0013343. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Large host-virus association databases are increasingly used to explore broad questions in disease ecology, particularly around host range, pathogen diversity, and the potential for spillover. While these databases have been instrumental in large-scale synthesis of host- pathogen biogeography and zoonotic risk, their potential role in addressing fine-scale questions about pathogen prevalence, maintenance, and transmission dynamics remains underexplored. In this study, we build on previous efforts to assess how different types of data, including both entries in databases and the original studies they draw from, can support targeted research on zoonotic spillover. We selected two zoonotic diseases, Ebola virus disease and Lassa fever, which are characterised by recurrent spillover events and outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa. We searched the VIRION database for entries corresponding to the respective viral taxa, the genus Orthoebolavirus and the species Mammarenavirus lassaense, and used these entries as case studies. We evaluated the extent to which databases capture crucial contextual metadata, such as spatial and temporal resolution, negative results, and measures of viral load. Guided by a conceptual framework of factors that lead to spillover, we demonstrate that while host- virus databases are valuable for addressing high-level patterns, fine-scale investigations of spillover require specific studies with detailed epidemiological data. Our study adds to a growing body of literature offering practical recommendations for database users and managers and highlights how these tools can be used as starting points in spillover research.

PMID:42149938 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pntd.0013343

Microb Genom. 2026 May;12(5). doi: 10.1099/mgen.0.001635.

ABSTRACT

Ornithobacterium hominis is a recently described Gram-negative bacterium that colonizes the human nasopharynx and may be associated with poor upper respiratory tract health. Here, we describe the isolation of O. hominis from samples collected from a South African birth cohort, creating the first archive of cultured strains of the species from Africa. Sequenced genomes from this archive reveal that South African O. hominis is more similar to Australian strains than those from Southeast Asia and that it may share genes with other members of the microbiome that are relevant for virulence, colonization and antibiotic resistance. Leveraging existing microbiome data from the cohort, O. hominis was found to be closely associated with bacterial co-colonizers that are rare in non-carrier individuals, including Suttonella, Rappaport, Helcococcus, Lwoffella, Moraxella and Gracilibacteria. Their collective acquisition has a significant impact on the diversity of nasopharyngeal communities that contain O. hominis. Individuals who have not yet acquired O. hominis have a higher abundance of Lwoffella lincolnii than individuals who never acquire O. hominis, suggesting that this could be a precursor state for successful colonization.

PMID:42149113 | DOI:10.1099/mgen.0.001635

Sci Rep. 2026 May 15. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-51266-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Immunization is one of the most impactful public health achievements, significantly reducing childhood morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, gender disparity and women's disempowerment constitute structural barriers in accessing vaccine services in low- and middle-income countries. In Nigeria, widespread differences in social norms and cultural values affect gender roles and influence women's ability to decide their own healthcare needs and participate in household decision-making. This leads to attitudinal differences in uptake of immunization depending on the child's location of residence. Using data from four waves of the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, we constructed two empowerment indices that determine whether caregivers participate in household decision-making and have the ability to decide on their healthcare needs. We used a structured spatiotemporal statistical model to determine whether a significant part of childhood vaccination coverage disparities can be attributed to these women's empowerment measures and predicted events at the third administrative level of the country. We considered five vaccination indicators: Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG), zero-dose, receiving a complete dose of DPT, MCV-1 (first dose of measles-containing vaccine), and receipt of all basic vaccinations. The adopted model was validated by comparing the empirical estimates of vaccination coverage level from the data with model projections at the second administrative level. The findings indicate that although empowerment regarding participation in household decision-making and agency over healthcare access is generally associated with increased vaccine uptake, their effects vary considerably across locations and notably among the highly empowered category of women. Although there are efforts to bridge immunization gaps within the country, the study emphasizes the need for tailored strategies that target up-scaling the ability of women and the wider community to participate in the decision-making process and be able to decide on healthcare needs to address regional disparities and improve vaccination coverage.

PMID:42141066 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-026-51266-8

Nat Commun. 2026 May 15. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-73286-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Environmental exposure to Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, remains poorly characterised due to the low sensitivity of conventional detection methods. Here, we develop CRISPR-BEEPs, a sensitive and resource-efficient CRISPR-based assay, and evaluate its performance against conventional culture-based plate inspection using double-qPCR as the reference standard. CRISPR-BEEPs demonstrated higher sensitivity (93.5% vs 19.4%) and high specificity (100% vs 98.0%). We apply the assay to water samples from natural and piped sources across 15,118 km² in northeast Thailand, collected from or near the households of 439 participants with melioidosis. We compared these with households of 190 participants with other bacterial infections and 506 healthy control participants living in the same endemic region who had never developed melioidosis. CRISPR-BEEPs detects B. pseudomallei in 73.3% of groundwater, 32.9% of surface water, and 26.2% of piped water samples, with results comparable to double-qPCR. The improved sensitivity reveals a significant association between environmental detection within 10 km of households and melioidosis risk (OR 2.74; 95% CI:1.38-5.48), an association undetectable using conventional methods. These findings expose critical sanitation gaps and highlight the value of high-resolution environmental surveillance for disease prevention.

PMID:42140954 | DOI:10.1038/s41467-026-73286-8

Companion Anim Health Genet. 2025 May 26;12(1):5. doi: 10.1186/s40575-025-00144-z.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:42135787 | DOI:10.1186/s40575-025-00144-z

Lancet. 2026 May 16;407(10542):1941-1952. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00555-6.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Estimates of vaccine impact have typically been used to quantify the effects of, and inform, immunisation strategies. Given the growing resource constraints on health systems worldwide, robust estimates of vaccine impact that allow comparison across different vaccines are now more crucial for decision making than ever. Building on previous modelling studies, we aimed to estimate vaccine impact ratios for an expanded portfolio of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance-supported vaccination programmes against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases across 117 low-income and middle-income countries using multiple models.

METHODS: In this modelling study, we have presented Vaccine Impact Modelling Consortium estimates of vaccine impact ratios, defined as deaths or disability-adjusted life-years averted per 1000 vaccinations, for the Gavi portfolio of vaccines. Modelling groups used standardised inputs for demographic data and vaccination coverage assumptions, including a no-vaccination counterfactual, and accounted for structural, parameter, and stochastic uncertainty to produce burden estimates. These estimates were then compared to calculate vaccine impact ratios, disaggregated by immunisation activity type and geographical subregions for vaccinations given between 2000 and 2030 (or 2000 and 2040 for cholera).

FINDINGS: Overall, we observed human papillomavirus (11·24 [95% uncertainty interval 10·88-11·64]) and measles (6·09 [4·90-7·07])vaccines averting a higher number of deaths per 1000 vaccinations than others. For other vaccines, the impact ratios varied across subregions and activity types. Due to parameter, structural, and stochastic uncertainty, the ranges of these ratios often overlap.

INTERPRETATION: Decisions around which vaccines to use are increasingly important in the context of Gavi's country vaccine budgets. Robust metrics that allow comparison between vaccines are thus essential to inform discussions. The vaccine impact ratios presented in this study can be used to complement other evidence to support effective planning and prioritisation in national immunisation programmes.

FUNDING: Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Gates Foundation, and Wellcome Trust.

PMID:42134355 | DOI:10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00555-6

PLoS One. 2026 May 13;21(5):e0348023. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0348023. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a common health issue in brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs, linked to their distinctive skull morphology. Despite its prevalence, the genetic basis of respiratory dysfunction in these breeds remains poorly characterised. To enable selection against BOAS, the Respiratory Function Grading Scheme (RFGS) was established in 2019, where respiratory function of dogs considered for breeding is tested via a standardised exercise test. Here, we analysed RFGS data from over 4,000 dogs, alongside pedigree records, to estimate heritability of respiratory function and assess RFGS participation across the UK Royal Kennel Club registered populations of the three extreme brachycephalic breeds. Moderate heritability estimates for RFGS grade (0.21-0.49), and nostril stenosis (0.31-0.39), with significant genetic correlations between the traits indicate that within-breed selective breeding can improve respiratory health. These findings support the feasibility of breeding programs targeting respiratory function. Implementing such strategies, alongside increased health screening participation, may help mitigate BOAS prevalence and enhance welfare in these popular breeds.

PMID:42127146 | DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0348023