Articles tagged with Diarrhea
The American Gastroenterological Association has released new clinical guidelines outlining a personalized approach to treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. The guidelines recommend prioritizing lifestyle modifications and dietary changes, such as increasing fiber or following the low-FODMAP diet, before seeking advanced tr...
A UVA researcher is using a harmless amoeba to develop an innovative treatment for deadly C. difficile infections in young children. The approach has the potential to deliver specific antibodies directly to the gut, reducing the need for antibiotics and addressing a growing public health threat.
Researchers analyzed 451 bacterial strains of C. difficile, identifying 9,924 distinct gene clusters and categorizing them into 176 genetically distinct groups. The study provides new insights into the genetic diversity and evolution of this pathogen, shedding light on its virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance determinants.
A study published by the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that T cell-derived interleukin-22 plays a crucial role in antibacterial defense of colonic crypts. The researchers discovered that two types of immune cells, innate and adaptive, have distinct roles in defending against pathogenic bacteria.
A team of scientists has developed a solar-powered water filter that can remove pathogens, pesticides, and micropollutants from contaminated water. The filter uses titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanowires and carbon nanotubes to produce reactive oxygen species that kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
A recent study identified specific RNA biomarkers linked to gastrointestinal symptoms in children with autism. The findings could lead to the development of personalized treatments to ease the pain of these individuals. The research has implications for precision medicine, enabling healthcare providers to track medication effectiveness...
A new study found that cashew stem bark extract inhibits abnormal gut motility associated with diarrhea, revealing a potential low-cost remedy for treating and managing the condition. The extract's mechanism of action involves blocking muscarinic acetylcholine receptors responsible for gastrointestinal motility.
Researchers at TUM discover that intestinal bacteria interact with Paneth cells in the gut mucus layer, leading to chronic inflammation. This finding may lead to new treatments for IBD.
A new genomics study has helped guide the development of vaccines against Shigella, a leading cause of severe diarrhoea in children. The research revealed the extent of genomic diversity among Shigella species, highlighting challenges to current vaccine approaches.
A genetic variation among some Greenlanders makes sugar healthy by converting it into a short-chain fatty acid called acetate, which boosts the immune system. Adult carriers have lower BMI, weight, and fat percentage, while children may experience negative consequences from consuming sugar.
Researchers found fecal transplants increase IL-25, reducing tissue inflammation and boosting immune system response to C. difficile infections. The transplants also promote beneficial microbial diversity, helping patients heal from life-threatening diarrhea.
Scientists at Hokkaido University developed a novel probiotic formulation to control severe diarrhea in calves, reducing mortality and economic loss. The probiotic supplement was tested on newborn calves and found to be effective in preventing bovine diarrhea caused by BRV and cryptosporidiosis.
A new computer modeling tool integrates real-time data to help clinicians determine if a child with diarrhoea needs antibiotics. The tool shows promising results, reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions by over 50%.
A new study reveals that traditional performing arts can drastically reduce the fatal threat of diarrhoea and pneumonia in young children. The intervention, led by the University of Birmingham, improved mothers' food safety and hygiene behaviours, resulting in a 60% reduction in hospital admissions for diarrhoea and a 30% reduction in ...
Researchers discovered that E. coli's heat-labile toxin changes gene expression in human intestinal cells, inducing them to manufacture a protein used by the bacterium to attach to the intestinal wall. This attachment allows the bacterium to benefit itself at the detriment of the host.
The Fiji national vaccine program against pneumonia and rotavirus has reduced morbidity and mortality among children in the country. Morbidity rates for rotavirus diarrhoea fell by 87% in under-fives, while hospital admissions decreased, resulting in a 39% drop in mortality for young children.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a connection between Brachyspira bacteria and IBS, particularly the form causing diarrhea. The study found that Brachyspira was present in 31% of IBS patients, with symptoms often resembling an allergic reaction, sparking hopes for new treatments.
A portable testing lab that fits into a suitcase has been developed by Newcastle University experts to detect waterborne hazards. The lab enables quick and affordable screening of millions of bacteria in a single water sample, providing critical data for public health officials to identify and deal with local hazards.
The rotavirus vaccine has led to significant reductions in hospitalizations and child deaths due to severe diarrhea in Kiribati. The study found a 37% decrease in acute gastroenteritis inpatient admissions and a 44% decline in outpatient presentations among children under five.
UT Southwestern researchers discovered a novel mechanism by which Campylobacter jejuni bacteria sense and respond to butyrate, a beneficial fatty acid produced in the large intestine. This finding provides potential therapeutic targets for preventing C. jejuni-induced diarrhea.
The American Gastroenterological Association has published new evidence-based recommendations on the GI and liver manifestations of COVID-19. Key findings include a lower prevalence of GI symptoms in outpatients (4.0%), but also highlight atypical presentations, such as diarrhea preceding other symptoms by days.
A study in The American Journal of Gastroenterology reveals that nearly half of COVID-19 patients in China presented with digestive symptoms like diarrhea and anorexia, which prolonged hospital stays and reduced recovery rates.
A study by University of California San Diego researchers shows that consuming green algae improves human gastrointestinal issues associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) such as diarrhea, gas and bloating. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in bowel discomfort and more regular bowel movements among participants.
A landmark study by the Global Enteric Multicenter Study (GEMS) found that even mild cases of diarrheal illness can be fatal to young children. The study, published in Lancet Global Health, suggests that more aggressive action is needed to prevent and treat all cases of diarrheal illness, regardless of severity.
A study finds La Niña is associated with cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, and higher flooding in Botswana, leading to a 30% increase in under-5 diarrhea incidence. This could lead to an early-warning system to prepare for periods of high diarrhea cases.
A new study has confirmed that bovine kobuvirus is the causative agent for calf diarrhea in US cattle. The virus was found in four of nine samples tested at the University of Illinois Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.
A phase I/II study of the Swedish vaccine candidate ETVAX found it to be safe and broadly immunogenic, inducing impressive immune responses in young children and infants. The vaccine showed high response rates among children aged 2-5 years and infants, with some even showing enhanced immune responses when given with an adjuvant.
Researchers at Flinders University have unraveled the neural circuits of the enteric nervous system, revealing how food is slowly mixed and propelled along the digestive tube. This understanding could lead to more effective treatments for conditions like constipation, diarrhea, and pain.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released a clinical guideline that helps healthcare providers identify appropriate tests to evaluate patients with suspected functional diarrhea. The guideline recommends considering fecal calprotectin or lactoferrin, testing for Giardia, and ruling out celiac disease.
A new study published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found a strong association between obesity and chronic diarrhea, independent of dietary, lifestyle, or medical factors. Obesity was 60% more likely to cause chronic diarrhea compared to normal weight individuals.
A simple, electricity-independent device has been proven effective in reducing child diarrhea rates by up to 23% in developing countries. The Aquatabs Flo technology uses precise chlorine dosing to purify water without compromising taste, offering a promising solution to control the second-leading cause of death for children globally.
A novel treatment device that automatically dispenses small amounts of chlorine reduces child diarrhoea by 23% compared to controls. The intervention had the largest health benefits among children in Dhaka, reducing diarrhoea by 34%, while also increasing tap water quality and safety.
A recent study has deciphered the near-atomic structure of filaments called 'pili' that extend from the surface of bacteria causing traveler's diarrhea. This breakthrough may lead to the development of new treatments and vaccines for the disease.
Researchers found that CFTR inhibitors, including investigational drug (R)-BPO-27, can fully block the increased CFTR activity caused by chenodeoxycholic acid. This inhibition reduces excessive secretion in the colon due to bile acids, offering a new therapeutic option for patients with conditions like Crohn's disease and IBS-D.
Researchers at WashU Medicine have successfully grown the most common type of Cryptosporidium in the lab using a new technique. This breakthrough will accelerate efforts to treat the deadly infection and identify potential drug candidates.
A large-scale program delivering water filters and cookstoves to Rwandan homes reduced reported diarrhea and acute respiratory infection rates by 29% and 25%, respectively. Improved drinking water quality and immunological boosts may contribute to the observed health benefits.
Researchers found that a one-week recall period in public health surveys yields higher estimates of childhood diarrhea prevalence than the traditional two-week period. The study suggests that future versions of the Demographic and Health Surveys should use a one-week recall period to improve accuracy.
A billion different ways for C-diff to become resistant to metronidazole have been identified. Genetic changes linked to heme levels are thought to be a key factor contributing to this resistance. Researchers are now working to identify new drug targets to combat the growing threat of C-diff, a bacterium that causes diarrhea and colitis.
Researchers found that treating severely malnourished children with a lactose-free, reduced-carbohydrate milk formula did not improve clinical outcomes. The study suggested that alternative formulas may still present a load of carbohydrates above what can be absorbed by the intestines.
Overdoses from opioids in loperamide have increased nationwide, with cardiac failure being a major concern due to the high toxicity of the drug when misused. Misusing non-prescription loperamide can lead to serious consequences, including irregular heartbeat and cardiac arrest.
A national study is comparing three FDA-approved treatments for fecal incontinence: biofeedback therapy, inert injectable compounds, and pacemaker stimulation. The five-year study aims to determine which treatment is most effective and safe for patients with moderate to severe fecal incontinence.
Listeria contamination in fattening pig feed can cause severe illness and death, researchers warn. A study found that anaerobic ensilaging conditions can suppress bacterial growth, highlighting the importance of proper feeding procedures.
The report analyzes 15 countries with the greatest number of deaths from these illnesses, finding that progress is being hampered by persistent inequities. Eight out of 15 countries failed to meet targets for key interventions, highlighting the need for improved access to prevention and treatment.
A phase II/III study found that a high concentration of multi-strain probiotic helped reduce mild to moderate episodes of chemotherapy-induced diarrhoea (CID) in cancer patients. The probiotic also reduced levels of inflammatory markers, although it did not meet its primary endpoint.
Children in low-resource countries are suffering from unnoticed infections that are stunting their growth and mental development, with lifelong consequences. Up to 30% of these children are carrying harmful infections that prevent them from reaching their full potential.
A new study has identified a key factor in how Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) causes disease, giving scientists hope for a preventive vaccine. The researchers discovered that ETEC can sense oxygen levels to control toxin production, leading to breakthroughs in understanding the bacteria's virulence.
A new study has mapped areas across Africa with high concentrations of child deaths from diarrhea, revealing uneven progress over 15 years. The research highlights the need for targeted interventions in local communities to mitigate the problem, as national strategies may be less effective due to regional inequalities.
A major new study shows that rotavirus vaccination reduces infant diarrhoea deaths by 34% in rural Malawi, adding weight to the World Health Organisation's recommendation for its inclusion in national immunisation programmes. The study also found a direct link between vaccine coverage and mortality reduction.
Macrophage receptors trigger intestinal contractions, leading to severe diarrhea in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. The discovery opens up new avenues for developing targeted treatments for this debilitating side effect.
A study found that travellers carrying standby antibiotics are more likely to use them for mild and moderate diarrhoea, contributing to antimicrobial resistance. The study identified factors increasing antibiotic use among travellers, including carriage of stand-by antibiotics, vomiting, and contact with local healthcare.
Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have identified a link between the presence of hydrogen sulfide gas in the gut and diarrhea in patients with small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A new four-gas breath test device is being developed to improve diagnosis and treatment for these conditions.
A study by Washington University School of Medicine found that people with blood type A are more likely to experience severe diarrhea caused by E. coli. Researchers identified a protein responsible for this blood-group difference, which could lead to the development of a vaccine targeting this protein.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine discovered that histatin-5 in saliva stiffens ETEC pili, preventing infection. This finding opens up new avenues for prevention and treatment of enteric infectious diseases.
Research at the University of Illinois found that copper hydroxychloride improves growth performance and reduces diarrhea in weanling pigs. The supplement also shows less frequent and severe diarrhea, with improved final body weight and daily feed intake.
A study of patients with recurrent Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections found that many changed their behaviors, including increased hand washing and use of soap and water. However, certain dietary changes and probiotic supplements showed little evidence to reduce the risk of future infections.
New culture-independent tests are more sensitive than traditional methods in detecting the cause of infectious diarrhea. However, these tests may detect multiple organisms, requiring infectious disease expertise for interpretation. The IDSA guidelines recommend testing children under 5, elderly individuals, and those with specific symp...
The study identified rotavirus as the leading pathogen among children under five, with a high incidence of severe cases in infants. Effective preventive measures include vaccination, oral rehydration salts, and proper hygiene practices.
A NUS study found a strong association between deforestation in Cambodia and increased risk of diarrhoea, acute respiratory infections, and fever in children under five. The study suggests that conserving forests could help mitigate health burdens and inform policy decisions on land use planning.
A new study suggests that clinical signs, such as gastrointestinal problems and septic arthritis, are better indicators of mortality in neonatal calves with diarrhea than blood pH levels. The research found that these clinical signs were significant determinants of mortality, while blood pH levels were only a predictor when they droppe...
A recent review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) incorrectly linked Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a highly effective biopesticide, to diarrhoea in humans. However, Dr Ben Raymond of the University of Exeter disputes these findings, citing recent evidence that supports Bt bacteria as "very safe for humans".