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Tick by tick

Scientists have created a novel system to safely study the transmission of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus through ticks. By carefully tracking each tick's movement and feeding pattern, researchers can examine the complete cycle of virus transmission between infected animals and uninfected ticks.

SourceUniversity of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston·JournalFrontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology·DateAug 19, 2013

Roadmap to 25 percent reduction in premature deaths From RHD in the under 25s by 2025 published

The World Heart Federation has published a new position statement outlining five strategic targets to achieve its goal of reducing premature deaths from rheumatic heart disease (RHD) among individuals aged <25 years by 2025. The targets include comprehensive register-based control programmes, global access to benzathine penicillin G, a...

SourceWorld Heart Federation·JournalNature Reviews Cardiology·DateApr 8, 2013

Human trials for Streptococcus A vaccine

Griffith University's Institute for Glycomics has launched a human trial for a Streptococcus A vaccine, targeting a protein on the surface of Strep A bacteria. The year-long trial aims to ensure the vaccine's safety and effectiveness in preventing rheumatic fever, particularly in remote Aboriginal communities with high infection rates.

Birds may spread, not halt, fever-bearing ticks

A Turkish biologist's review of existing scientific literature suggests that releasing non-native guineafowl in Turkey to eat ticks may actually spread the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus. The birds carry ticks on their feathers, which could facilitate the spread of the disease despite initial intentions.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalTrends in Parasitology·DateNov 29, 2012

Turmeric spices up virus study

Researchers at George Mason University discovered that curcumin from turmeric can stop the Rift Valley Fever virus from multiplying in infected cells. The study suggests that curcumin-based pharmaceuticals could be used to treat devastating viruses like HIV.

SourceGeorge Mason University·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·DateAug 16, 2012

UC Davis MIND Institute study shows that fever during pregnancy more than doubles the risk of autism or developmental delay in children

A UC Davis study shows that mothers who experienced fevers during pregnancy were more than twice as likely to have a child with autism or developmental delay. The researchers recommend controlling fevers while pregnant to modify the risk of having a child with these conditions.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis Health·JournalJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders·DateMay 23, 2012

Scripps Research scientists find potential Achilles' heel on Lassa fever and related viruses

Researchers at Scripps Research Institute have determined the atomic structure of a protein used by the Lassa fever virus to replicate within infected cells. The study reveals an unexpected molecular crevice where the viral protein grips viral genes, making it a target for potential antiviral drugs.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2011

Evidence-based guidelines targeting fever, hyperglycemia, and swallowing management in stroke patients improve outcomes and can be adopted with confidence by acute stroke units

A multidisciplinary intervention targeting fever, hyperglycaemia, and swallowing management in acute stroke units improves 90-day survival rates and physical functioning. The study found that implementing this strategy can significantly better post-discharge outcomes for stroke patients.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateOct 11, 2011

Rural areas at higher risk of dengue fever than cities

A study found that rural areas have a higher risk of dengue fever due to higher mosquito populations, while urban areas contribute significantly despite fewer cases. Improving water supply and vector control can increase the efficiency of control efforts.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateAug 30, 2011

NIH researchers identify cause and new treatment for common recurrent fever in children

Researchers identified a new treatment for periodic fever syndrome, targeting the body's immune response. The therapy shows promise in reducing fever and inflammation symptoms without increasing flare-ups, differing from current corticosteroid treatment. A larger clinical trial is planned to validate the findings.

SourceNIH/National Human Genome Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 8, 2011

Study finds respiratory symptoms more reliable indicator of H1N1, not fever alone

A new study reveals that coughing and other respiratory symptoms are more accurate indicators of H1N1 infection than fever, which can lead to undetected cases. According to the research, nearly half of individuals with mild H1N1 infections may not display fever, highlighting the need for a more comprehensive screening approach.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal of Infection Control·DateJul 29, 2010

Immune protein fends off exotic virus

A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine reveals that type I interferons are essential for combating Chikungunya virus infection. The unexpected finding is that fibroblasts, not immune cells, produce the virus-fighting proteins during infection.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2010

Researchers find 'broad spectrum' antiviral that fights multitude of viruses

Researchers have identified a broad-spectrum antiviral compound effective against HIV-1, influenza A, filoviruses, poxviruses, and other deadly diseases. The compound, LJ001, targets enveloped viruses by exploiting their biogenic reparative ability, resulting in permanent and irreversible damage.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 1, 2010