Articles tagged with Infectious Diseases
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new study by Karolinska Institutet reveals that natural killer cells respond to a specific peptide on the surface of infected cells. This peptide triggers an activation response in NK cells carrying the NKG2A receptor, allowing them to kill virus-infected cells.
The ATS 2022 International Conference will take place in San Francisco from May 15-18, featuring a gathering of scientists and clinicians in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine. The conference will showcase accelerated research and clinical applications across lung diseases, including COVID-19.
Researchers have created a new type of cholera vaccine consisting of polysaccharides displayed on virus-like particles, generating long-lasting antibody responses in mice. The vaccine shows promise as a next-generation cholera vaccine, potentially replacing current vaccines that last only 2-5 years.
A recent study found that temperature variation affects infection rates and disease outcomes in distinct ways, with different effects depending on the average background temperature. Temperature fluctuations such as heatwaves can reduce infectivity and spore burden of parasites, but may not impact disease outcomes.
Researchers found that starting combined antiretroviral therapy against simian immunodeficiency virus two weeks after infection significantly reduced chronic immune activation, SIV replication, and latent TB reactivation. This study contributes to the growing evidence on the complex interaction between HIV and tuberculosis.
Researchers at UC San Diego found a steep rise in HIV incidence among people who inject drugs in Tijuana, driven by undiminished drug tourism. The rate of infection is 11 times higher than in San Diego residents who do not cross the border.
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a novel droplet manipulation method called WRAP, which can transport micro-sized droplets using electromagnets or programmable electromagnetic fields. The method overcomes challenges in traditional magnetic actuation, such as contamination from added magnetic particles.
A nationwide study in Germany found that liver cirrhosis has the highest mortality rate among chronic diseases, with 0.94% of hospital admissions affected. The study also showed a decline in mortality rates due to improvements in Hepatitis C treatment, but an increase in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease cases.
A young diplodocid dinosaur with abnormal bony protrusions in its neck bones may have suffered from a fungal respiratory infection similar to aspergillosis. The study provides the first evidence of an avian-style respiratory infection in a non-avian dinosaur.
Scientists at Washington State University have discovered a novel theory that the innate immune system can respond differently to specific pathogens. This quality, known as immunological specificity, is driven by the nervous system and could provide a basis for finetuning an experimental treatment to fight infection.
Researchers detect four cryptic variants of SARS-CoV-2 in NYC wastewater samples, suggesting possible animal origins. The variants' mutations could help identify the next variant of concern for COVID-19.
Researchers have developed a rapid and accurate breathalyzer test that can diagnose COVID-19 in under 5 minutes, identifying asymptomatic carriers. The handheld device uses surface-enhanced Raman scattering sensors to detect volatile organic compounds exhaled by infected individuals.
A global systematic review found serious complications and a 15% fatality ratio among patients with non-typhoidal Salmonella invasive disease. The study highlights the need for urgent investment in vaccine development and research into prevention methods to tackle this emerging neglected infectious disease.
A group of plant pathologists have compiled a recovery plan to mitigate tar spot's impact on corn production. The plan reviews current knowledge and future needs, enabling the dissemination of best management practices across state lines.
Immunosequencing of T cells combined with machine learning techniques reveals that participants with higher numbers of pre-existing memory CD4 T cells develop immunity more quickly and produce more antibodies following vaccination. This study has significant implications for immunity and vaccine development efforts.
Researchers at University of Washington developed a fast, cheap test for COVID-19 that combines speed of antigen tests with accuracy of PCR tests. The Harmony COVID-19 test detects genetic material from SARS-CoV-2 virus with 97% accuracy and provides results in under 20 minutes.
The four-year programme will investigate the chemical signatures that trigger immunity in fungal infections, which kill an estimated 1.6 million people worldwide annually. By understanding these signatures and how fungi disguise them, researchers hope to uncover the origins of antifungal immunity.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that a mange outbreak in San Guillermo National Park, Argentina decimated the wild vicuña and guanaco populations, with nearly three-quarters of the animals lost between 2017-18. The authors suggest domestic llamas introduced to the site may have triggered the outbreak.
Researchers have identified several factors that can predict the development of long COVID, including the presence of certain autoantibodies, pre-existing Type 2 diabetes, and low cortisol levels. The study found that administering antivirals early in the disease course may also prevent some long COVID symptoms.
Researchers created a novel molecular diagnostic platform that can detect COVID-19 genes after only 8 cycles of amplification, significantly reducing the time required for diagnosis. The new SERS-PCR platform uses gold nanoparticles to produce high-sensitivity signals, providing an important tool in the fight against the pandemic.
A new study has found that children in sub-Saharan Africa who are hospitalized with COVID-19 are dying at a rate far greater than children in the US and Europe. Children under 1 year old had nearly five times the risk of death compared to adolescents aged 15-19 years.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet found that memory T cells formed after previous infection or mRNA vaccination can still recognize the omicron variant, suggesting protection against severe disease. The study also suggests booster immunization may provide benefits beyond neutralizing antibodies.
Researchers at Nagoya City University developed a novel approach for surface disinfection using harmless visible light, inactivating bacteria and viruses. The study's findings suggest that photothermal effects caused by pulsed laser irradiation can instantly destroy pathogenic microorganisms.
A University of South Australia study suggests that nature-based citizen science projects can alleviate stress and isolation, while improving mental, emotional, and physical health benefits. By engaging with natural environments, individuals can experience lower stress levels, improve their wellbeing, and feel connected to a community.
A new framework evaluates medicines' impact on global health, calculating the impact of drugs used to treat diseases like TB, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and NTDs. The Global Health Impact Index model saves about 62 million disability-adjusted life-years, equivalent to saving almost a year of life for 1% of the world's population.
Scientists have grown rousette bat 'organoids' that reproduce intestines in vitro, providing a new model for studying virus-bat relationships. The organoids were found to be susceptible to certain viruses but not others, offering insights into why bats can host multiple pathogens without getting sick.
A UTEP research team found SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies in over a third of Texas deer blood samples, indicating widespread infection among white-tailed deer. The study suggests that deer should not be neglected as a possible source of human infection.
Researchers at UNICAMP discovered that total parasite biomass is a better predictor of complications in patients with P. vivax malaria than parasitemia. The study highlights the importance of parasite biomass in the bone marrow and spleen, which play a major role in vivax malaria complications.
The University of Ottawa's CoVaRR-Net has received a $9 million grant extension to continue its rapid research on COVID variants, including the Omicron variant. This renewed funding will allow researchers to accelerate their work and keep policymakers informed of their latest findings.
Researchers identified 'pre-resistance' signs in bacteria, predicting future resistance to antibiotics. This discovery allows doctors to select the best treatments for bacterial infections and paves the way for personalized genomic therapy.
Researchers developed a high-throughput platform to screen for new class of coronavirus antiviral compounds, targeting the macrodomain protein. The platform identified existing drugs that block macrodomain activity, including dasatinib, which shows promise as a potential treatment for COVID-19 and other coronaviruses.
A clinical trial has revealed that COVID-19 patients on ventilators have less surfactant in their lungs due to the virus. The researchers suggest that giving extra surfactant for a longer period could help save lives by supporting breathing and allowing lung cells to repair after the infection passes.
Researchers from Duke-NUS Medical School found that Zika virus infection disrupts the glucose metabolism pathway in infected foetuses, leading to birth defects and death. A potential supplement, pyruvic acid, may protect foetuses from these impacts.
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.
Researchers found that transient depletion of regulatory T cells induces dendritic cell maturation and generates adaptive immune responses against emerging SARS-CoV-2 antigens. This discovery may improve current vaccine strategies by eliminating the need for adjuvants.
Researchers found that a combination of natural infection and vaccination produces maximally potent antibodies against COVID-19. The study suggests that repeated exposures to the spike protein can improve the immune system's ability to produce high-quality antibodies against variants.
A recent study suggests that severe COVID-19 may cause long-term damage to the testes, leading to reduced sperm count and quality. The virus's interaction with testicular cells and potential effects on fertility are being explored through an experimental framework.
A study of HIV-positive black and Latino men found that methamphetamine use combined with intimate partner violence boosts inflammatory and antiviral genes, leading to immune system exhaustion. This combination may increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other disorders.
A recent study found that 19.9% of trans feminine individuals and 2.56% of trans masculine individuals were HIV positive, highlighting the need for targeted prevention efforts. The researchers called for increased focus on this population's unique needs.
Researchers have developed a comprehensive Lyme disease dashboard to define hotspots and map the disease across the US and Canada. The dashboard provides valuable insights for public health awareness and research collaboration.
A recent study estimates that COVID-19 vaccination prevented almost 470,000 deaths among people aged 60 years and older across Europe. The authors found that early implementation of vaccination was associated with the largest reduction in expected deaths.
A cohort study of 165 patients with hepatitis C-related hepatocellular carcinoma found that treating the virus with direct-acting antivirals reduces tumor progression and metastasis. The study showed a 72% reduction in tumor progression and an 88% reduction in risk of death from HCC.
Researchers from Osaka University found that over half of intensive care workers experienced moral distress during the pandemic due to limited communication with patients and families. Virtual communication and psychological support were identified as potential solutions to prevent burnout and ensure proper medical care.
Previous antibody responses to harmless coronaviruses contribute to SARS-CoV-2 immunity, reducing infection severity and hospitalization rates. Researchers found that people with strong immune responses to other human coronaviruses have some protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
The European Union and European Economic Area saw a significant decline in antibiotic consumption in 2020, with a 18% decrease compared to 2019. This decline was largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced primary care consultations for mild infections.
Researchers have developed a new strategy to combat the tick-borne Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus by reconstructing its structure and identifying neutralizing antibodies. The study, published in Science, offers insights for developing therapeutics and vaccines against the virus.
Researchers have identified compounds that interfere with fungal enzymes required for fatty acid synthesis, potentially overcoming resistance to current treatments. These compounds show promise as antifungal agents, effective even against drug-resistant strains of fungi.
Scientists sequenced Plasmodium falciparum genomes to understand malaria parasite populations and track drug resistance biomarkers. The study identified population-specific SNPs that can be used to determine transmission routes and monitor drug resistance.
Researchers at East Carolina University have discovered a new way to detect SARS-CoV-2 by testing air passing through building ventilation systems. The method revealed the presence of the virus in air samples with high accuracy, potentially leading to earlier detection and reduced transmission.
Researchers have identified specific bacterial interactions in disease-resistant children that protect against chronic middle ear infections. This discovery could lead to new treatments and preventative measures for Indigenous communities, which are disproportionately affected by the condition.
Researchers have developed a database of parasite-host interactions among ancient ocean animals, shedding light on the evolution of biodiversity and the impact of parasitism on ecosystems. The study suggests that parasites can positively stabilize coastal ecosystems, making them more stable despite individual harm to hosts.
Plant pathologists have developed a set of Nursery Phytophthora Best Management Practices to eradicate the harmful organisms from nursery stock. Through testing and accreditation programs, nurseries that comply with the guidelines have shown no detectable Phytophthora infection in their stock, enabling habitat restoration plantings.
Scientists have engineered enzymes to manufacture molnupiravir, resulting in a shorter and higher-yielding synthesis. The new method reduces the risk of hospitalization and death from COVID-19 for newly diagnosed patients, showing promise as an antiviral treatment.
A new report highlights the alarming global impact of Group B streptococcus, which can lead to up to 150,000 infant deaths annually. Maternal vaccination is seen as a cost-effective solution to reduce this toll, with significant health benefits in all regions.
Researchers aim to predict and contain the spread of SCTLD by tracking coral immune responses. The study will examine which factors contribute to a successful immune response, where corals can recover and survive.
A recent study found that adding tamoxifen to standard antifungal treatment did not speed up the clearance of fungal infection from spinal fluid in patients with meningitis. The study also showed increased heart toxicity in the tamoxifen group, highlighting the need for new anti-cryptococcal drugs.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a wearable, self-sustaining fever detector that uses thermal energy harvesting to power its electronic device. The device can generate an unprecedented 87 millivolts per degree Celsius, making it large enough to operate typical wearable electronics.
A new study found that COVID-19 can trigger severe psychiatric symptoms in adolescents, with anti-neural antibodies playing a potential role. Two patients with mild/asymptomatic COVID developed suicidal thoughts and paranoid fears, while another patient without prior psychiatric history recovered fully after treatment.
The global illegal wildlife trade has a substantial impact on biodiversity loss, human health, and ecosystems. The trade results in estimated costs of $162.7 billion annually and contributes to the extinction of native species.
Researchers found that Pseudomonas aeruginosa populations in CF patients' sinuses vary widely, with evolution following two stages: pathoadaptive community formation and fragmentation. This discovery may inform new therapeutic approaches by focusing on strongest evolutionary pressures.