Articles tagged with Infectious Diseases
A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that mutant p53 protein aggregates may lead to prion-like behavior, impairing its ability to suppress tumor growth. The findings suggest that this misfolding mechanism could serve as a potential target for cancer therapy.
Arizona State University has secured a four-year, $30.7 million defense contract to develop an immunosignaturing diagnostic technology for rapid detection of infectious diseases. The technology aims to detect exposure before symptoms occur, allowing for timely treatment and prevention of further spread.
A novel 'beads on a string' approach may help reduce cost and development time for agents that neutralize and clear pathogenic molecules. The strategy has been shown to be efficacious against several toxins and may also prove effective in targeting other types of pathogens.
Dr. Patrice Courvalin has made significant contributions to understanding antibiotic resistance, including the discovery of vancomycin resistance in Enterococcus and the elucidation of transposition mechanisms. His work has led to a revision of the dogma describing natural dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes.
Ellen Jo Baron has been recognized with the 2012 ASM Founders Distinguished Service Award for her decades-long commitment to promoting clinical microbiology and ensuring excellence in laboratory practice worldwide. Baron's extensive service includes volunteering with the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services Clinical Laboratory Imp...
Biologist Robert van Woesik is studying contagiousness of coral diseases, testing for clustering and transmissibility in two Caribbean locations. Understanding the etiology can inform human intervention to reduce disease prevalence.
A new risk prediction equation has been developed to predict death and end-stage renal disease in patients with impaired kidney function. The CKD-EPI equation provides more accurate classification of individuals at risk, leading to better prevention and management of kidney disease-related outcomes.
A recent study published in Sports Medicine found that skin problems are a common complaint among Summer Games athletes. Early correct diagnosis is crucial for athletes to participate and compete at their full potential.
Prevention programmes in adolescents are vital to prevent problems in adolescence and into adulthood. Successful policies include providing minors with free contraception, raising taxes on alcohol, and graduated licensing policies.
Dr. Fernando Antelo's workshop uses Frida Kahlo's artwork to stimulate interest in science and healthcare professions, highlighting her passion for science through her medical imagery. The ASBMB annual meeting in San Diego will feature Dr. Antelo's presentation on this innovative approach.
A new study uses a pathogen-based incidence approach to generate infectious disease burden estimates in Europe, attributing morbidity to specific pathogens. The methodology has limitations but shows the need for further research and integration of demographic changes and infection dynamics.
A recent report highlights the dangers faced by US youth in the workplace, with dozens dying and thousands injured annually due to poorly regulated environments. The Colorado School of Public Health is advocating for stronger federal oversight and research into preventing workplace injuries among young people.
The Lancet report emphasizes the importance of transforming old attitudes towards aging and addressing non-communicable diseases in older adults. Effective interventions like hypertension management and promoting healthy lifestyles can improve health status with relatively cheap treatments.
Cedars-Sinai researchers identified the mechanism that leads to interleukin-1beta production, a major contributor to inflammation in conditions like atherosclerotic heart disease and strokes. This discovery could lead to treatments that prevent its production, resulting in more effective medications for inflammatory diseases.
The rapid urbanization of China has led to a significant increase in disease rates and healthcare disparities, particularly among rural-to-urban migrants. These individuals face unique health risks due to gaps in healthcare coverage and exposure to pathogens associated with both rural poverty and crowded urban environments.
Hospital admissions for serious infectious diseases have increased by over 50% in New Zealand since 1989, with Môori and Pacific peoples disproportionately affected. The country's commitment to reducing health inequalities has been questioned, as the gap between indigenous and non-indigenous populations widens.
Researchers used whole-genome sequencing to analyze E. coli bacteria from outbreaks in Germany and France, discovering small differences among strains. The study found that the German isolates were nearly identical, while French strains showed greater diversity, suggesting a bottleneck or uneven seed distribution.
A Canadian-led research team has developed a new model to anticipate disease outbreaks at mass gatherings like the Olympics. By integrating global and local surveillance, they can create a more effective approach to preventing infectious disease risks.
Computer models can identify health and safety issues at mass gatherings and simulate the spread of infections to test public health interventions. These models could be used to minimize health hazards and prevent outbreaks, saving lives and resources.
Human stampedes and heatstroke are major causes of death at mass gatherings, with over 7000 deaths and 14,000 casualties reported in the past 30 years. Effective interventions include providing advice on heat safety and crowd control measures.
A novel technology called Bio.Diaspora tracks air travel patterns to anticipate global disease spread. This approach could benefit hosts of future mass gatherings by identifying infectious disease outbreaks and prioritizing public health measures.
Countries recovering from war are at risk of being left without effective policies to tackle noncommunicable diseases, which can lead to increased mental health problems and premature deaths. Experts argue that a strong policy response is necessary to address the growing burden of NCDs in post-conflict countries.
A study found a decrease in TB cases in the US between 2000 and 2009, particularly among recent immigrants and disadvantaged groups. The drop was attributed to economic recession and lower immigration rates, but the long-term impact on public health remains uncertain.
A Phase I study is underway to test the safety and tolerability of a new androgen dimethandrolone undecanoate as a potential male contraceptive. Dr. Christina Wang hopes to develop an oral agent that can effectively decrease sperm production, offering men more frequent doctor visits and improved reproductive system understanding.
Researchers have discovered a novel cytokine, Interleukin 37 (IL-37), that protects mice from colitis by modulating inflammation. This finding offers a promising approach to treat or control overactive immune systems in humans, particularly for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Researchers use Fourier transform infrared-attenuated total reflection spectroscopy to identify infected trees with 95% accuracy. The method is faster and cheaper than current DNA testing, but further differentiation between diseases is needed.
A new study finds that workers who receive settlements for painful on-the-job back injuries experience worsening financial and domestic problems over time. Younger workers and those with lower incomes are particularly affected, with significant increases in financial difficulties and legal actions.
The Canadian Collaboration for Immigrant and Refugee Health has developed a new resource for primary care physicians to address the complex health needs of immigrants and refugees. The guidelines cover four areas: infectious diseases, mental health, chronic and noncommunicable diseases, and women's health.
Researchers found that a model with dynamic information about social interactions was as effective as a more complex model, challenging the assumption that increased complexity leads to better predictions. The study used data from over 30,000 social contacts recorded at a conference, revealing that simpler models can still produce accu...
Boston Medical Center has received a grant to expand its HIV/AIDS clinic and provide more comprehensive case management services. The new facility will enable collaboration between infectious diseases and primary care departments, improving the quality of care for patients with HIV/AIDS.
Scientists have created a new approach for producing large quantities of human-derived gelatin, potentially replacing up to 300,000 tons of animal-based gelatin. The novel method involves inserting human gelatin genes into yeast, allowing for controllable features and scalability for commercial use.
A comprehensive review of respiratory illnesses in the Middle East highlights diverse conditions such as pulmonary tuberculosis, bronchial diseases, and chest traumas. The study attributes these disorders to environmental factors, infections, and unique cultural conditions.
LA BioMed will receive $4.17 million from the NIH grant to fund inpatient clinical research unit at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. The UCLA Clinical and Translational Science Institute aims to accelerate scientific discoveries and clinical breakthroughs for improved health.
The CDC study found that a significant proportion of respondents had traveled to countries with reported prion diseases, increasing the risk of exposure. Hunting and venison consumption were also associated with increased risk of prion disease exposure, particularly in areas with chronic wasting disease.
A study finds that the UK's current tuberculosis screening policy for immigrants is missing 70% of imported latent infections. Implementing a broader screening program could identify 92% of infected immigrants and reduce future cases of active tuberculosis while remaining cost-effective.
SLU professor of neurosurgery Saleem Abdulrauf's high-flow brain bypass procedure improves treatment outcomes by reducing invasive procedures and maintaining blood flow in the brain. The technique is built upon the original brain bypass surgery developed in the 1960s and has been recognized for its potential to minimize recovery time.
Researchers identified CRSBP-1 ligand molecules that bind to receptors on lymphatic vessels, gaining entry and facilitating cancer cell spread. This mechanism can be targeted to prevent metastases and treat edema, strengthening immune responses.
Researchers found substantially lower death rates and fewer subsequent heart attacks among patients who waited eight or more weeks after a heart attack. The study's findings suggest new surgical guidelines could help improve patient outcomes.
A study published in Brain Research found that nutritionally deprived newborns are programmed to eat more due to reduced neurons in the brain's food intake region. This suggests maternal nutrition plays a critical role in preventing obesity and related diseases.
A new study examines recurrent wound botulism among injection drug users in California, finding that nearly three-quarters of reported cases are linked to this condition. The study highlights the risk of repeated cases despite potentially developing protective immunity against botulism.
A study published in Cell identified the motors driving non-infectious prion proteins up and down long neuronal transport pathways. The research sheds light on how these proteins interact with infectious forms to cause disease, potentially aiding therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
A recent study found that adhering to current guidelines for treating intensive-care unit patients with multi-drug resistant pneumonia may result in higher mortality rates. The authors suggest re-assessing the guidelines due to a lack of evidence supporting triple antibiotic therapy.
A study analyzing the Infectious Diseases Society of America's practice guidelines found that more than half are based on opinion rather than evidence from clinical trials. The researchers recommend cautious use of current guidelines and prioritizing critical thinking in patient care.
Researchers found that Porphyromonas gingivalis infection accelerates inflammation and atherosclerosis in the innominate artery of mice, characterized by vessel narrowing and perivascular inflammation. The study provides evidence for a link between periodontal disease and systemic cardiovascular diseases.
A recent study found that diets rich in healthy foods, such as fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, may reduce mortality risk in older adults. The 'Healthy foods' cluster had a significantly lower risk of mortality compared to clusters with high consumption of unhealthy foods.
Researchers have discovered a compound that reverses some signs of aging, including oxidative stress and cognitive impairment. The study found that MZ-5-156 had positive effects on life span, telomerase activity, and tumor activity, while decreasing cancer incidence.
The Making It Happen programme, supported by UK's Department for International Development and UNICEF, trains healthcare providers in Africa and Asia to reduce maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity. The programme has already trained over 3000 health care providers, leading to improved clinical practices and reduced deaths.
The NIH-sponsored expert panel issued comprehensive guidelines to diagnose and manage food allergy, providing standardized recommendations for clinicians. The guidelines aim to improve the diagnosis and treatment of food allergy, which affects millions of Americans.
A 2008 study found that raw milk was the cause of an E. coli outbreak in Connecticut, resulting in 14 cases and 7 confirmed infections. The outbreak led to proposed legislation aimed at controlling raw milk sales, but ultimately resulted in the discontinuation of raw milk sales in a major retail store.
A new test method has been developed to detect and measure infectious agents called prions that cause devastating brain-damaging conditions. The real time quaking induced conversion assay (RT-QuIC) can detect miniscule amounts of infectious prions, potentially leading to early treatment and prevention.
A study of 88 Parkinson's outpatients found that 72% experienced fatigue or excessive daytime sleepiness, with 60% of fatigued patients also experiencing EDS. Fatigue was more common in those without EDS, while EDS worsened with dopamine agonist treatment.
A recent study by LA BioMed researchers found that children with higher waist circumferences are more likely to have cardiac risk factors, including significantly higher pulse pressures. This suggests that pediatricians should add waist measurements to their routine screening of children to identify those at risk for heart disease.
The study identified eight categories of PTSD-related characteristics and factors, including exposure to traumatic stressors and mental health history. The work group's findings aim to improve the integration of knowledge regarding PTSD and TBI, ultimately benefiting trauma survivors.
Chronic disease death rates are increasing in developing countries, with 23 million deaths annually. A new framework proposes national surveillance strategies to monitor trends and improve actions on chronic diseases.
The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics is published on behalf of the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) and the American Society for Investigative Pathology (ASIP). The journal publishes high-quality original papers on scientific advances in molecular diagnostics.
The Virginia Bioinformatics Institute is developing mathematical models to understand immune responses to gut pathogens, aiming to accelerate disease prevention and treatment. The Center for Modeling Immunity to Enteric Pathogens will generate new hypotheses through computer simulations and experimental research.
Scientists have identified microRNA miR-33 as a key to controlling HDL, or "good" cholesterol levels. Increasing miR-33 levels resulted in lower HDL cholesterol levels, while turning it off raised HDL levels.
A study by Saint Louis University scientist John E. Morley found that low testosterone levels are associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease in older Chinese men. The study, which analyzed data from 153 participants, also revealed elevated ApoE 4 protein levels and high blood pressure as additional risk factors.
Dr. Casaburi will receive the award on Oct. 8 at the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation's annual meeting in Milwaukee, recognizing his many contributions to the field of respiratory research and pulmonary rehabilitation. He is a leading researcher at LA BioMed, directing the Rehabilitation Clinical Tria...
A new study by Saint Louis University researcher Lisa Cannada found that women who give birth after suffering pelvic fractures receive C-sections at more than double normal rates. Women also experience lingering symptoms such as urinary complications and post-traumatic stress disorder after a pelvic fracture injury.