Articles tagged with Covid 19
Damage to the brainstem, the brain's control centre, is behind long-lasting physical and psychiatric effects of severe Covid-19 infection. Researchers used ultra-high-resolution scanners to observe the damaging effects of Covid-19 on the brain, finding inflammation in key regions associated with breathlessness, fatigue and anxiety.
Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine will investigate factors that facilitate or hinder conversations between physicians and patients about medical misinformation. The study aims to develop a toolkit to increase health literacy and counter misinformation among older adults, who are disproportionately affected by hea...
Scientists at Houston Methodist will focus on developing efficacious vaccines and therapeutic antibodies for viruses in the Nairoviridae, Hantaviridae, and Paramyxoviridae families. The goal is to prepare for potential outbreaks and develop effective medical countermeasures in response to a next pandemic.
Researchers estimate that treating hospitalized COVID patients with convalescent plasma saved between 16,476 and 66,296 lives in the US between July 2020 and March 2021. The use of convalescent plasma could have reduced mortality by up to 225% if it had been administered more widely.
A new study found that sexual and gender minority adults in the US experience multiple social risk factors, including life dissatisfaction, social isolation, and stress. This highlights the need for policies advancing health and socioeconomic well-being of these groups.
The study found that 'double sceptics' who distrust institutions in general are more likely to be antivaxxers and climate sceptics. A tailored approach is needed to overcome their scepticism, which may involve building trust with the economy over mitigation efforts.
A new study found significant disparities in at-home test use among older adults, with those having a college degree or higher and higher incomes being more likely to use them. However, Black older adults were less likely to use these tests compared to other racial/ethnic groups.
A recent study found that community health centers (CHCs) played a crucial role in COVID-19 vaccination completion, with 72% of patients receiving vaccinations by the end of 2022. CHC-related factors such as location and Medicaid expansion significantly influenced vaccination rates, highlighting disparities among socioeconomically disa...
Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a synthetic peptide that mimics the ACE2 receptor, blocking SARS-CoV-2 invasion and reducing inflammation in human lung cells and mice. The peptide could be customized for every variant, offering a fast-acting molecular shield against the virus.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have developed six lines of humanized mice to study human cases of COVID-19, shedding light on SARS-CoV-2's movement through the body and varying symptoms. The models help understand how different genetic backgrounds influence disease progression.
Researchers discovered that epigenetic changes in macrophages after SARS-CoV-2 infection enabled them to mount a better defense against influenza A virus. This innate immune memory can provide protection against future infections and may enable the development of new therapeutic strategies.
A nationwide Swedish study found that full vaccination significantly reduced the risk of severe cardiovascular outcomes linked to COVID-19, such as heart attack and stroke. However, temporary increases in cardiovascular risk were observed after individual doses, particularly among elderly and males.
A new study reveals a significant association between COVID-19 and acute kidney disorders, including acute kidney injury, peaking during the second week after infection. Healthcare providers should closely monitor kidney function in COVID-19 patients with moderate to severe cases, particularly during the first few weeks after infection.
A cross-sectional study found significant increases in sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in SUID rates was linked to off-season resurgences of infectious pathogens, with RSV rates closely approximating this shift.
A multinational study found that people with unmedicated mental illness are less likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19, with a 9% lower vaccination rate compared to the general population. Individuals with substance use disorder were also 16% less likely to receive the vaccine.
Research found a significant increase in sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and SIDS rates during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in 2021. The study suggests a link between infection, particularly respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and SUID, highlighting the importance of safe sleep practices despite infections.
Washington University School of Medicine researchers will study how vaccines trigger long-lasting immune responses, comparing them with effective lifelong immune responses. They aim to understand factors that enable enduring immunity after vaccination and inform the design of nasal vaccines for respiratory viruses.
Researchers are working on a new method for preserving microbial samples using microfluidics, biomaterials, and protein engineering. The goal is to improve biosurveillance and protect soldiers and civilians from infectious diseases.
A new nasal spray, PCANS, shows promise in reducing respiratory diseases by capturing and neutralizing airborne pathogens. The study's results demonstrate the spray's effectiveness against various viruses and bacteria, including influenza and COVID-19.
Researchers developed a nasal spray that captures and neutralizes airborne viruses and bacteria, providing up to 8 hours of protection. The Pathogen Capture and Neutralizing Spray (PCANS) demonstrated a greater than 99.99% reduction in lung viral titers in mice models.
Researchers have discovered that COVID-19 patients experience worse cognitive function 12-18 months after hospitalization, with reduced brain volume and abnormal protein levels. This affects global cognitive deficits equivalent to twenty years of normal aging.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open has found that pandemic-era children do not have a higher risk of developing autism. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 2,000 children born during and before the pandemic, and found no difference in positive autism screenings between groups.
A new study from Binghamton University found that telemedicine enhances the quality of patient care and increases physician satisfaction. The study analyzed data from 10,302 physicians nationwide and identified key features such as videoconferencing and electronic health records integration that contributed to improved outcomes.
A recent cohort study found that prenatal exposure to COVID-19 during pregnancy did not increase the risk of autism screening in toddlers. The research suggests that maternal SARS-CoV-2 infection and pandemic-related exposure had no significant impact on autism positivity rates.
Scientists analyzed millions of tweets to detect early warning signs of PTSD in COVID-19 survivors, achieving an accuracy rate of 83.29%. The study highlights the potential for machine learning techniques to identify individuals at risk of PTSD through social media data.
A new poll from Michigan Medicine shows that nearly half of people age 50 and older plan to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. However, some older adults with high risk of severe illness appear unlikely to seek the vaccine, highlighting the need for increased encouragement from clinicians and other sources.
The HOMER study successfully adapted to COVID-19 challenges by incorporating telehealth and accommodating patient preferences. The study has enrolled nearly 300 participants and continues to contribute valuable insights into opioid treatment research.
The LYFE-III study will digitize the intervention and make it freely available, assessing its effectiveness. The current research builds on previous studies that focused on parenting skills enhancement and substance abuse prevention among Latino youth.
A new study led by Uppsala University researchers found that a single treatment session playing the video game Tetris can reduce PTSD symptoms. After five weeks and six months, participants showed significant improvements in reducing intrusive memories and alleviating other symptoms.
A new study analyzing 44 years of FBI data reveals that family members are the most common perpetrators of infant and child homicides in the US. The research found a sustained increase in firearm-related homicides among children and adolescents, with Black pediatric victims experiencing disproportionate burdens.
Researchers analyzed over 150,000 COVID-19 cases in Japan and found CAPA occurred in 0.4% to 2.7% of severe or critical patients, with higher risk seen in men, older adults, and those with respiratory diseases. Early detection and treatment with antifungal drugs are crucial for improved outcomes.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a new quantitative testing system called the Express Biochecker, which uses Janus particles to detect coronavirus N protein. The system is simple, rapid, and low-cost, with potential applications for other viral illnesses and biomarkers.
A new international study provides a list of wildlife species present at the Huanan Seafood Wholesale market where SARS-CoV-2 likely arose. Genetic material from raccoon dogs, civet cats, and other species was found in samples from market stalls.
Researchers at Cranfield University have developed an innovative method for identifying biomarkers in wastewater using origami-paper sensors, enabling early detection of infectious diseases. The new test device is portable, fast, and cost-effective, making it a game-changer for public health measures.
A new study provides further evidence that SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, likely originated from animals sold at the Huanan Seafood Market in Wuhan, China. The analysis of genetic data found that wildlife species such as raccoon dogs and civet cats were present at the market and may have carried the virus.
Prehospital encounters for opioid overdoses increased among US youth from 2018 to 2022, particularly among adolescents aged 12-17, which showed an upward trend both before and during the pandemic. Overall, trends were largely driven by those aged 18-24.
Researchers isolated drug-resistant strains of SARS-CoV-2 from immunocompromised individuals who received antiviral treatments. The virus variants showed resistance to Paxlovid and remdesivir, highlighting the need for combination therapy to treat COVID-19 in highly vulnerable patients.
A recent study found that national politics predominantly use abstract, moralized, and power-centric language, lacking local common ground. This shift is thought to fuel partisan animosity and provoke anger.
A new study found that patients who initiated treatment for opioid use disorder through a telehealth mobile app had higher retention rates over six months compared to those in physical clinics. The study's results suggest that telehealth may be an effective alternative to traditional office-based treatment.
A new study by University of Oklahoma researchers identifies key measurements of brain blood flow and ability to compensate as better predictors of mild cognitive impairment than traditional risk factors. The findings provide hope for preventing or treating memory problems early before they progress to dementia.
Researchers analyzed COVID-19 cases in US states, finding oscillating waves every six months that start near the southern border in July-August. The data suggests a larger pattern sweeping up and down North America, but further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these seasonal oscillations.
Researchers will conduct laboratory and field work at UC Medical Center to detect airborne transmission of MRSA. The study aims to better understand the significance of airborne transmission of MRSA and inform enhanced workplace safety measures.
The Einstein-led PROVIDENT consortium will conduct four projects to develop countermeasures against a wide range of emerging viruses, with a focus on three virus families: nairoviruses, hantaviruses, and paramyxoviruses. The grant aims to quickly respond to emerging viruses with existing research and tools.
Prescription volumes for stimulant and antidepressant medications rose, while opioid volumes decreased between 2019 and 2022. Telehealth prescriptions climbed across medications, with a notable increase in opioids.
A new study published in JAMA Health Forum found that machine learning can be more effective than traditional methods for distributing scarce treatments to patients most vulnerable during a public health crisis. The model reduces expected hospitalizations by about 27 percent compared to actual and observed care.
A new study found a 15% increase in benzodiazepine prescriptions among postpartum women during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers suggest that the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of postpartum depression and anxiety were exacerbated by the pandemic-induced healthcare crisis.
A significant increase in drug overdose rates was recorded in Colombia between 2010 and 2021, with a notable rise among young women. The study found that the pandemic contributed to higher levels of anxiety and mental health problems, leading to overuse of drugs, particularly tranquilizers/sedatives/antidepressants.
A new study published in Annals of Oncology found that long-course radiotherapy is safer and more effective than short-course radiotherapy for preserving organs in rectal cancer patients. The treatment was shown to prevent regrowth of the primary tumour, but had similar overall survival rates.
Researchers at Boston University discovered a new method to harness self-amplifying RNA to create more effective vaccines. The modified saRNA vaccine protected mice from severe COVID-19 disease with a lower dose than current mRNA vaccines. Longer duration of protein expression and reduced inflammation were also observed.
The Centre for Research and Innovation for Black Survivors of Homicide Victims argues that the prevalence of homicide grief in Black communities is a pandemic. The researchers recommend strategies such as promoting research, enhancing early detection, and improving culturally responsive support services to address this issue.
Researchers found that patients with throat symptoms had reduced baroreflex sensitivity and higher resting heart rates compared to those without symptoms. The study suggests that throat problems can have a significant impact on autonomic nervous system function, potentially leading to long-term survival risks.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that trust in police plummeted among Black residents of Chicago after the 2020 shooting of Jacob Blake. Younger residents and those who had previously been arrested or incarcerated experienced the largest declines. The findings suggest that police violence can exacerbate public safety issues.
Researchers have proposed a novel treatment strategy for post-acute infectious syndromes (PAIS), including Long COVID. The multimodal approach combines pharmacological interventions like metformin and low-dose naltrexone with physical therapies like extracorporeal apheresis.
Researchers identified an antibody that assists some variants of the virus in infecting cells while blocking others, a dual-role effect. The study highlights the complexity of developing treatments as viruses evolve, but notes this phenomenon has not been observed in humans.
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has been instrumental in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by providing transparent decision-making and prioritizing equitable access to vaccines. The committee's virtual meetings enabled timely discussions and evidence review, allowing for rapid approval of COVID-19 vaccines. H...
A study by UT Health San Antonio urologist Ronald Rodriguez found that combining valproic acid, an anti-seizure medication, with DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, may reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 and lessen its severity. The combination has been shown to activate ancient antiviral pathways against coronaviruses.
A recent study found that workplaces with high levels of collective engagement saw less employee turnover during the COVID-19 pandemic. Collective engagement refers to a shared sense of mission or community among store employees. The researchers also observed that stores with higher collective engagement had lower employee turnover rat...
A nationwide retrospective cohort study found a detrimental relationship between COVID-19 caseload and survival across all hospital types. Approximately 1 in every 5 COVID-19 deaths were attributed to hospital caseload strain, highlighting the importance of minimizing caseload surge during future public health emergencies.
A UW study found that COVID-19 lockdowns accelerated brain maturation in adolescents, particularly in females, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and internalizing problems. The study suggests that social isolation and lack of normal stress release channels may have exacerbated these effects.
A new study published in Microorganisms highlights the importance of small molecule drugs that target the unchanging parts of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The research suggests that these stable targets could provide a consistent and reliable treatment option for COVID-19, even as vaccines are updated to address changing viral strains.