Meta-research in biomedical science is crucial for ensuring rigour, relevance, and transparency in an era marked by the exponential growth of scientific publications. This study examines global and historical trends in meta-research activities within biomedicine and investigates their relationship with health, science, and human development indicators. A systematic analysis of 9633 publications from Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed was conducted, focusing on publication volume, citation impact, and geographic distribution. Regression analyses reveal a significant positive association between meta-research activity and the Human Development Index (HDI), suggesting that meta-research contributes to societal advancement by enhancing evidence-based decision-making in health. However, no association was found between meta-research output and research and development (R&D) expenditure, reflecting the minimal resource requirements of secondary data-driven studies compared to primary or experimental research. Meta-research activity correlates positively with clinical trial completion, indicating its role in refining study designs and addressing evidence gaps. These findings highlight the importance of expanding meta-research in underrepresented regions to promote equity in scientific advancement and improve the reliability of biomedical knowledge. This result underscores the need for targeted support for meta-research, particularly in low- and middle-income countries with limited scientific infrastructure and resources for new knowledge generation.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and long COVID.

Neurogenesis is the process of forming new neurons from neural stem cells (NSCs). In adults, this process takes place in specific areas of the brain, known as neurogenic niches. These regions have unique anatomical features that have been studied in animal models and in the human brain; however, there are differences between these models that need to be addressed. The most studied areas are the subventricular zone, the lateral and latero-dorsal walls of the lateral ventricles, and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus (Hp), which are known as the canonical areas. Other, less-studied niches, such as the hypothalamus, the cerebellum, and the amygdala, are known as non-canonical areas. Anatomy occupies a relevant place in adult neurogenesis, in which the tissue architecture and cellular location are necessities for the interaction and release of diverse molecules that allow this phenomenon. The cell arrangement within the niche and the location of the niche itself are of particular relevance to the state in which the NSCs are found. Consequently, the majority of previous discoveries have been related to pathology. While many studies are based on animal models, discoveries related to neurogenesis in humans have also been made; however, in this case, opinions vary, leading to extensive controversy in recent years. In this review, we address the anatomical characteristics of the different brain regions to better understand their relationships within neurogenesis.

Despite growing recognition of mental health as a global priority, a critical knowledge gap persists regarding how workforce availability aligns with the burden of mental disorders across income levels. This perspective addresses that gap by comparing mental health workforce indicators and disease burden metrics from the World Health Organization and United Nations datasets, stratified by country income level. The findings reveal a striking misalignment: low- and lower-middle-income countries report the highest disability-adjusted life years due to depression, bipolar disorder, and suicide, yet possess the lowest density of psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers per 100,000 population. Conversely, high-income countries demonstrate stronger alignment between disease burden and workforce capacity, supported by greater policy readiness and financial allocation. Importantly, this analysis identifies not only a quantitative shortfall in human resources but also a qualitative gap in policy implementation, including limited enforcement, weak integration into primary care systems, and insufficient accountability mechanisms. Even where national mental health plans exist, compliance and execution remain limited, particularly in low-income settings. These inequities compromise efforts toward universal health coverage and Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 on mental well-being. These findings highlight urgent global priorities for mental health investment and system reform to close the persistent treatment gap and advance the Sustainable Development Goals. This evidence may guide investment decisions, inform global health diplomacy, and support policy reforms aimed at closing the persistent mental health treatment gap.

Background: Medical errors are a major public health concern, contributing to increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs worldwide. Understanding the global research landscape on medical errors and its association with key health and development indicators can provide insights into gaps and opportunities for improving patient safety. Methods: A scientometrics analysis was conducted using data from Scopus, PubMed, and other bibliographic databases. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating bibliometric indicators with global health and research metrics. Regression models and meta-analyses were applied to evaluate associations between research productivity and health indicators across 6 World Health Organization regions. Results: A total of 2639 articles on medical errors were analyzed. The Americas produced the highest volume of research (48.01% of publications) with the highest citation impact (mean 46.5 citations per article). In contrast, Africa had the lowest research output (0.87%). Significant associations were observed between medical error research productivity and health indicators, including reductions in adolescent mortality (Coef. = ‐3676.56, P < .001) in the Western Pacific and under-5 mortality (Coef. = ‐0.18, P < .001) in the Americas. Each region showed a distinct pattern of associations with the global indicators. Research funding and health expenditure were positively associated with publication output and citation impact. Conclusion: Medical error research exhibits regional disparities and significant associations with global health indicators. Investment in medical errors research is associated with improved health outcomes in some regions, underscoring the need for equitable resource allocation and enhanced international collaboration to address gaps in patient safety research.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and Long-COVID.