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Cough or fever first? Study analyzes order of COVID-19 symptoms

A new study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that the order of COVID-19 symptoms varies depending on the SARS-CoV-2 variant. In the USA, cough was most likely to be the first symptom, while fever and diarrhea were more common third symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Computational Biology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 16, 2021

COVID-19 mobile robot could detect and tackle social distancing breaches

A new COVID-19 mobile robot detects social distancing breaches in crowds and encourages people to move apart using a novel system that employs Deep Reinforcement Learning and Frozone algorithm. The robot also incorporates a thermal camera for contact-tracing efforts, ensuring privacy protection and de-identification.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 1, 2021

Studying the placenta to gain a better understanding of febrile seizures in children

A Québec research team studied the expression of three families of genes in the placenta and found associations with febrile seizure characteristics. The study, led by Professor Sarah Lippé, may help understand the underlying mechanisms of febrile seizures and their impact on children's cognitive development.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalJournal of Neuroendocrinology·DateNov 16, 2021

Deadly virus’s pathway to infect cells identified

Researchers at WashU Medicine and University of Pittsburgh discover that Rift Valley fever virus uses a protein linked to cholesterol metabolism to infect cells. The finding could lead to therapies preventing or reducing the virus's impact by interfering with its entry into cells.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalCell·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021

COVID-19-related multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults: rare but possible

A case of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in an adult who recovered from COVID-19 is reported, highlighting the importance of considering this rare but possible complication. Prompt treatment helped recover the patient. The authors suggest encouraging reporting of cases to facilitate research and improve outcomes.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJun 21, 2021

New Strep A human challenge model paves the way to test vaccines against the deadly bacteria

A new Strep A human challenge model has been successfully developed, paving the way to test vaccines against the common deadly bacteria that causes sore throats, scarlet fever and skin sores. The model, which deliberately infected healthy adult volunteers with the bacteria in a controlled environment, was found to be safe and effective.

SourceMurdoch Childrens Research Institute·JournalThe Lancet Microbe·DateMay 9, 2021

Study confirms "classic" symptoms of COVID-19

A major review of COVID-19 scientific literature confirms a cough and fever as the most common symptoms, with fatigue, loss of smell, and difficulty breathing also reported. The study analyzed data from over 24,000 patients across nine countries, ratifying the World Health Organisation's initial symptom list.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 24, 2020

UAlberta clinician-scientists identify pink eye as possible primary symptom of COVID-19

Researchers have identified conjunctivitis as a potential primary symptom of COVID-19, leading to changes in patient diagnosis and treatment protocols. Ophthalmologists are now taking extra precautions when treating patients with conjunctivitis and keratoconjunctivitis, including wearing personal protective equipment.

SourceUniversity of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry·JournalCanadian Journal of Ophthalmology·DateJun 18, 2020

NHGRI researchers uncover genes linked to common recurrent fever in children

NHGRI researchers have identified genetic mutations associated with PFAPA syndrome, a periodic fever disorder that affects only children. The study reveals commonalities with other inflammatory conditions, including Behçet's disease and canker sores, and highlights the potential for new treatments and diagnostic tools.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2020

Nanopore sequencing of African swine fever virus

African swine fever virus can replicate in various pig cells and has a relatively conservative genome. Whole-genome sequencing is crucial for understanding the transmission route of ASFV. Nanopore sequencing technology proved more efficient than traditional next-generation sequencing methods in obtaining viral genomes.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateJan 16, 2020

Mechanism that triggers the inflammatory process by Mayaro virus is discovered

A Brazilian team at FAPESP-supported Center for Research on Inflammatory Diseases identified the strategy used by immune cells to combat the pathogen Mayaro virus. The study provides a basis for the development of drugs against this disease, targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome and its role in producing proinflammatory molecules.

Lassa fever: Vaccine set to be trialed

A vaccine for Lassa fever, a hemorrhagic disease causing up to 6,000 deaths annually, is set to enter human clinical trials. The measles platform-based vaccine demonstrated the best protection against the virus in preclinical tests.

SourceInstitut Pasteur·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateOct 24, 2019

Heavier birth weight linked to childhood allergies

A systematic review of over 2.1 million allergy sufferers found that each kilogram increase in birth weight is associated with a 44% increase in the risk of food allergies and a 17% increase in the risk of eczema. However, increased birth weight has no influence on the risk of childhood hay fever.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateOct 15, 2019

Young infants with fever may be more likely to develop infections

Researchers found that young infants with fevers are more likely to develop serious bacterial infections. Infants under eight weeks old have a doubled risk of developing such infections. Parents are encouraged to seek immediate medical attention if their child develops a fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Emergency Medicine·DateOct 7, 2019

Single event or epidemic?

Long-term data analysis reveals non-infected regions have a higher risk of infection due to seasonal changes in movement patterns. The study emphasizes the importance of focusing on specific individuals, seasons and areas to prevent future outbreaks.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalJournal of Animal Ecology·DateAug 19, 2019

CSU team uncovers potential for Rift Valley fever virus transmission in Colorado livestock

A team at Colorado State University discovered that Culex tarsalis mosquitoes, a primary vector for West Nile virus, can transmit Rift Valley fever virus to livestock and humans in Colorado. The researchers found that these mosquitoes feed on both humans and livestock, making them a significant threat for potential outbreak.

SourceColorado State University·JournalTransboundary and Emerging Diseases·DateAug 12, 2019