Articles tagged with Covid 19
A study found that patients with severe COVID-19 who suffered progressive lung failure had a different gut microbiome composition compared to those who recovered. The research identified key differences in bacteria and metabolites, including higher levels of Proteobacteria and lower levels of secondary bile acids in dying patients.
A study found that 6.5% of the general population in Spain hesitated to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, with younger and less educated individuals being more reluctant. In contrast, healthcare professionals showed higher vaccination rates and had fewer concerns about the vaccine's effectiveness.
Researchers developed a CSIC vaccine that fully protects against SARS-CoV-2 infection in the brain and prevents associated brain damage. The MVA-CoV2-S vaccine candidate demonstrates sterilizing immunity and was effective even after reinfection with the virus.
Researchers at UBC identified three compounds derived from natural sources that prevent COVID-19 infection in human cells. The discovery paves the way for developing new medicines using natural sources.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth services for common mental health problems increased 16-20 fold, surpassing the decline in in-person care for certain conditions. By December 2020, treatment levels were higher for some disorders compared to a year earlier.
A study of 5.1 million commercially insured adults found a rapid increase in telehealth services for mental health conditions during the pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic led to higher service utilization rates for several mental health conditions compared to pre-pandemic levels.
A new study in Portugal's population shows that hybrid immunity from vaccination and previous SARS-CoV-2 infections confers up to 8 months of protection against omicron BA.5. The study found that protection remains high after 8 months, with a stable level of around 65%.
A recent study by Ohio State University found that despite widespread internet access, many refugee communities struggle to use digital technology for daily needs. The research highlights the importance of addressing social and cultural barriers to bridge the digital divide.
A study of 4,100 MIS-C hospitalizations in 2021 found racial disparities and higher costs compared to COVID-19. The findings suggest that relying on mean outcomes can be misleading due to variability in multiorgan dysfunctions.
A Yale University study reveals COVID-19 alters the immune system's response to threats in men differently than women. Men who recovered from mild cases respond more robustly to flu vaccines, while women are more likely to suffer from autoimmune diseases.
Researchers at Yale University have developed a method to detect stealthy viruses in nasal swabs by testing for an immune system biomarker. This approach allowed them to identify four cases of COVID-19 that had gone undiagnosed, highlighting its potential as a tool for early warning systems.
Recent research suggests that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a clinical risk factor for severe complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection, including respiratory failure and death. AMD shares common genetic risk factors with COVID-19, and lowering PDGFB gene activity may reduce the severity of COVID-19 in older individuals.
A new study reveals that mothers working from home during the pandemic took on significantly more supervisory parenting responsibilities than fathers, often spending an extra two hours managing childcare duties. The researchers also found that women were more likely to adapt their work schedules to accommodate changing family needs.
A study in California prisons found that recent vaccination and boosters significantly reduced infectiousness of COVID-19, with a 11% decrease per additional dose. Prior infection also provided protection, with a 23% risk of transmission compared to 33% for those who had never been infected.
A recent study found a significant decrease in influenza activity in China during the 2020-2022 COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in winter and spring. The observed reduction in influenza seasonality may be attributed to everyday COVID-19 public health interventions.
Patients with cancer are at a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and worse outcomes than those without cancer. Triple vaccination is associated with a lower risk of poor outcomes in these patients.
A US study of 15,000 nursing homes found that pre-Omicron vaccination boosts reduced COVID-19 cases and deaths among residents and staff. Newer variants rendered original vaccine less effective.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, state-level cigarette sales varied significantly across the US. The analysis found lower per capita sales in eight states and higher sales in 22 states compared to expected levels. These findings may be related to differences in state responses to the pandemic and tobacco control policies.
A study published in the European Journal of Public Health found a significant rise in body mass index (BMI) among Swedish children aged three to five during the pandemic. BMI rose in both boys and girls, with a notable increase in overweight and obesity rates among disadvantaged areas.
A study by Brown University and Silent Spring Institute found that inexpensive DIY air filters called Corsi-Rosenthal boxes can significantly decrease indoor air concentrations of PFAS and phthalates. The boxes, made from MERV-13 filters, duct tape, a fan, and cardboard, reduced PFAS levels by 40% to 60% and phthalates by 30% to 60%.
A new study reveals that long-lived germinal centers, which can last for six months, are maintained by a dynamic balance between founder B cells and newly introduced naive B cells. The research provides insights into the workings of these microscopic training grounds and could inform future vaccine design.
A new study from the University of Virginia Health System found that mRNA booster shots increase the durability of antibodies to COVID-19. The boosters led to longer-lasting antibodies, even in those who had previously recovered from a COVID-19 infection.
A study found that children exhale fewer small particles, which are less likely to spread diseases like COVID-19. Larger particles produced by adults and children can transmit infections equally well, highlighting the importance of wearing high-efficiency masks for disease prevention.
A randomised controlled trial found that molnupiravir treatment did not decrease hospital admissions or deaths in vaccinated adults with higher risk of mortality from COVID-19 infection. However, patients treated at home with molnupiravir recovered faster compared to the control group.
A recent study by University College London reveals that the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues and food insecurity among individuals living with obesity. Nearly half of participants reported worsening mental health, while nearly a third experienced severe depression. Food insecurity also increased significantly, wi...
The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America recommends against routine COVID-19 testing for symptom-free patients. Instead, enhanced infection prevention interventions should be used to protect patients and healthcare providers.
A team at Lawson Health Research Institute discovered unique patterns of blood plasma proteins in critically ill COVID-19 patients, which may aid in developing targeted therapies. By analyzing over 1,000 proteins, researchers found changes in immunosuppression pathways and identified potential biomarkers for the disease.
A study found that acidification of aerosols post-exhalation significantly impacts viral load. Influenza A viruses are inactivated within minutes, while SARS-CoV-2 requires days at typical indoor pH levels.
A University of Houston study found that anger over how the industry responded to the pandemic is a major driver behind hospitality workers' reluctance to return. The research team suggests that rebuilding trust with employees and offering better compensation and benefits are key recommendations for businesses.
A study by Duke University Medical Center reveals that loss of smell in long COVID-19 is caused by an ongoing immune assault on olfactory nerve cells and a decline in their number. The finding also sheds light on possible underlying causes of other long COVID-19 symptoms.
Researchers at UCLA Health have found that masks can prevent not only COVID-19 but also whooping cough, while obesity is linked to an increased risk of stroke and cognitive impairment. The institute has also designed a clinical trial to reduce the use of low-value treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
A study published in The BMJ found that people who believe in conspiracies and reject the covid-19 vaccine are more likely to endorse mythical causes of cancer than non-conspiracists. However, awareness of actual causes of cancer is generally higher among these groups.
A new study reveals that almost a third of long Covid patients suffer from persistent smell loss, with nearly a fifth experiencing loss of taste. The condition can significantly impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.
Researchers developed a method to estimate seroprevalence using blood donation samples, offering insights into the first year of the COVID-19 epidemic in Brazil. The study found significant differences among regions and subgroups, highlighting the need for real-time tracking and forecasting of future waves.
Research by Cornell University reveals that biodegradable medical gowns release harmful emissions due to faster decomposition rates. The study suggests adopting landfill gas capture and utilization processes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and toxicity.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that mothers drank less frequently, but more drinks per day as the pandemic progressed. This increase in drinking volume raised concerns about binge drinking among mothers, particularly due to stress and social isolation during parenting.
A retrospective cohort study of 28,311 COVID-19 patients in Germany found a significant association between dementia and increased risk of death. The association was weaker than previously reported studies, suggesting potential changes in the impact of dementia on COVID-19 mortality over time.
Researchers found genetic mutations to OAS and RNase L proteins increase inflammatory response in immune cells, leading to MIS-C. This understanding may provide clues to chronic inflammation diseases like Kawasaki disease.
Researchers found that individuals who strongly agree with government restrictions on individual behavior during public emergencies are more likely to believe in just deserts. Men are also slightly more likely to hold this belief than women, while those who think it's unlikely they'll get infected have lower levels of just deserts.
A study by NTU Singapore found that mental health chatbots engage users in empathetic conversations and offer support and guidance through psychotherapeutic exercises. The chatbots displayed a 'coach-like' personality, but were not able to deliver personalised advice.
New research reveals that COVID-19 nasal antibodies provide first-line defence but decline nine months after infection, while blood antibodies last at least a year. Vaccination boosts blood antibodies to prevent severe disease, but has limited effect on nasal IgA levels.
Experts, including a pediatrician, suggest phasing out coal as punishment in Christmas stockings due to its damaging effects on children's health and the environment. They propose alternative gifts, such as recycled or plant-based options, to foster friendships and combat anxiety.
Rates of pediatric firearm injuries increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, persisting through 2021. Non-Hispanic Black children and those with public insurance were disproportionately affected, highlighting a pressing need for gun safety measures.
A multi-state study found that bivalent booster vaccines significantly reduce COVID-19-related emergency department or urgent care visits and hospitalization rates. The study showed a 57% reduction in COVID-19 related emergency department or urgent care visits compared to unvaccinated adults.
Researchers have developed a simple mechanical model to understand how viruses replicate inside cells, highlighting the crucial role of virus size in this process. The optimal size range for efficient viral replication is suggested to be between 60nm and 100nm in diameter.
A new study found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in research productivity across various fields, but women between the ages of 35 and 49 experienced no detectable gain. The study revealed that younger professors and those in top-ranked departments saw substantial increases in research output.
A Nagoya University study found that increased use of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to a 27% increase in hospital carbon emissions. Despite reduced electricity and gas consumption, the overall carbon footprint rose due to longer hospital stays and increased intensive care needs.
A study of 11,000 participants found that pandemic-associated hardships and behaviors were linked to increased traumatic stress symptoms in mothers from diverse backgrounds. Researchers emphasize the importance of designing effective mental health programs during public health crises like COVID-19.
A new model created by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found that pregnant individuals had a 50% lower exposure to SARS-CoV-2 compared to the general population in the earliest months of the pandemic. This protection was likely due to shielding measures, including masking and social distancing.
A large-scale study of mothers reveals those who experienced greatest pandemic-related change are more susceptible to traumatic stress symptoms. Mothers with higher incomes and education were found to be in the high-change group, while those with lower socioeconomic status reported fewer disruptions.
Researchers identified several characteristics increasing risk of infection, while others decreased it. Strict adherence to mask-wearing and vitamin D consumption provided significant protection against COVID-19.
Researchers found that using tixagevimab-cilgavimab in blood cancer patients prevented moderate and severe COVID cases. The antibody provided protection but did not entirely prevent infection, highlighting the importance of additional safety measures.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found that physically active individuals had a lower risk of severe COVID-19 outcomes. The research showed an association between physical activity and improved COVID-19 outcomes across major demographic groups, including black, Hispanic, and Asian patients.
The December issue of CHEST journal features articles on COVID-19 lessons learned and future pandemic preparedness. The journal also explores various topics in chest medicine, including asthma, critical care, and sleep medicine.
The COVID Support Our Schools (SOS) program, developed by Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, assisted 11 school districts and one Boys and Girls Club in historically underserved areas across New Jersey. The program provided personalized task forces with medical students and faculty experts to address various challenges such as vac...
Researchers developed a Quenchbody fluorescent immunosensor that detects SARS-CoV-2 with exceptional speed and sensitivity. Adding a crowding agent enhances performance, allowing for lower detection limits and faster results. The technology shows promise for rapid and cost-efficient diagnosis of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.
The percentage of adolescents reporting substance use in 2022 held steady, with most commonly reported use of alcohol, nicotine vaping, and cannabis. Levels generally remained at or below pre-pandemic levels, but there was a concerning increase in overdose deaths among young people ages 14-18 due to fentanyl contamination.
Researchers compiled a comprehensive map of the world's airborne microbes, providing fresh insights into how these species interact with the surface environment. The atlas reveals that human activities have changed the structure of microbiomes in natural ambient air, particularly with higher abundance of pathogenic bacteria in urban air.
A new study by UCLA and USC found that people experiencing homelessness in L.A. County are 2.35 times more likely to die from COVID-19 than the general population. The researchers suggest that accelerated aging among the homeless may be a contributing factor to this increased risk.
Researchers found that high-performing practices used proactive approaches to organize staff and manage patient interactions, leading to comprehensive addressing of patient care needs during in-person visits. The study suggests incorporating proactive patient care processes into primary care delivery to improve diabetes outcomes.