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.
Researchers developed a deep-learning framework, STAIG, to automatically map distinct genetic activity to tissue regions without manual alignment. The study demonstrates superior performance across various conditions, showcasing its potential for cancer research and understanding complex biological systems.
Dr. Jonathan Cox warns of the dangers of raw sewage in UK coastal waters, highlighting the risk of gastrointestinal, respiratory, and skin infections to vulnerable groups. He advocates for checking water quality before visiting beaches and praises efforts like the Safer Seas and Rivers Service to combat pollution.
Researchers will investigate the interaction of fluid dynamics and Far-UVC technology to optimize its deployment in real-world settings. The project aims to make communities healthier by analyzing airflow patterns and aerosol distributions.
A new integrated 3D imaging approach has revealed exquisite detail of the virus assembly process used by herpes simplex virus during replication. The research identified previously unknown functions of HSV-1 structural proteins and provided insights into the unmutated gene's usual role in viral assembly.
A cohort study found no increase in sudden cardiac arrest/sudden cardiac death among young competitive athletes in the US, contradicting reports that linked COVID-19 infection and vaccination to the risk. The study suggests that many athlete cases shown in social media videos occurred before the pandemic, not due to COVID-19.
A study of Viking skulls using CT scans reveals a range of diseases including sinus and ear infections, osteoarthritis, and dental diseases. The results provide greater understanding of the health and wellbeing of the Viking population.
Swimming in lakes with still water can lead to infection with Legionella bacteria, causing pneumonia. Risk factors include age over 50, smoking history, and compromised immune systems. Clinicians should suspect legionnaires' disease in patients with severe pneumonia and recent travel history.
Researchers at Salk Institute discover SSRIs like Prozac regulate immune response, preventing sepsis in mice. The findings suggest a potential new use for the popular drug, which could lead to life-saving treatments and enhanced global preparedness for pandemics.
A new University of Virginia study found that providing clear information and collaborative learning sessions between patients and healthcare providers increased willingness to get vaccinated. Sixty-three percent of patients reported a strong recommendation from their healthcare provider motivated them to get vaccinated.
Researchers at Osaka University developed a new technique called single-cell suppressive profiling of regulatory T cells (scSPOT) that can pinpoint the effects of Tregs on all other immune cells. The study found that Tregs most strongly affect CD8-EM T cells, which play a key role in fighting cancer and infections.
A recent study found that cold temperatures allow the bird pink eye pathogen to survive on bird feeders for up to seven days, causing more severe disease in birds compared to warmer temperatures. Regular cleaning of feeder surfaces with bleach can help mitigate the spread of the disease.
A new retrospective study found that nearly half of patients with fever of unknown origin in sub-Saharan Africa had a detectable pathogen, including bacterial strains and hemorrhagic fever viruses. The study highlights the need for strengthened laboratory capacity to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers discovered immune cells that can recognise influenza (flu) viruses even as they mutate, providing a potential solution to the annual updates of flu vaccines. The study found that certain T cells, which play a critical role in fighting infections, can detect multiple flu strains, even those that have evolved over a century.
Researchers identified inequities related to race and rurality in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and adverse outcomes. Structural racism and disinvestment in rural communities may be linked to individual HAI risk and post-HAI outcomes.
Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales, including K. pneumoniae and E. coli, pose a significant risk to EU/EEA patients and healthcare systems. The epidemiological situation has deteriorated since 2019, with high-risk lineages spreading in hospitals.
Researchers investigated ozonated water's impact on SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, discovering that protein concentrations like amylase and mucin decrease ozone stability and effectiveness. This study provides insights into the applicability of ozonated water for disinfection in real-world settings.
Researchers at the University of Melbourne have identified a rare type of immune cell, called stem-like T cells, that holds the key to maintaining powerful, long-term immune responses. ID3+ T cells have the remarkable ability to resist burnout and maintain a powerful immune response over time.
Early adult mortality in the US is higher than expected after the COVID-19 pandemic, with researchers finding a sharp rise in death rates among adults aged 25-44. The study highlights the need for comprehensive policies to address structural factors driving worsening health among young adults.
A high number of poliovirus detections in European countries has highlighted the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage. The virus can be imported into Europe as long as it circulates globally, posing a risk to unvaccinated populations.
Researchers developed a powerful tool to detect SARS-CoV-2 variants with high transmission potential, pinpointing exact mutations driving spread. The model focuses on spike protein and other parts of the virus, enhancing ability to bind human cells and evade immune systems.
A recent case report in Ireland shows the challenges of responding to leprosy in high-income countries where it is rare. The study recommends prioritizing education, stigma reduction, and harmonized public health guidelines for sporadic cases.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology discovered that tissue-resident memory CD8 T cells rise up to fight infections in the small intestine, using spatial transcriptomics technology. These immune cells are split between villi and crypts, with progenitor-like cells replenishing effector T cells.
Researchers at EMBL Grenoble identified significant differences between the trypanosomal and human nuclear cap-binding complex, a key player in cellular RNA metabolism. The study reveals major differences that could serve as a potential drug target for treating neglected tropical diseases.
Diane Santa Maria, dean of Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth Houston, has received a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. Her innovative research program focuses on HIV prevention among youth experiencing homelessness.
A large UK trial found that adding procalcitonin (PCT) to routine care did not reduce IV antibiotic use in hospitalized children. The study, part of the BATCH trial, enrolled nearly 2,000 children and tested PCT's effectiveness in guiding treatment decisions.
Scientists at University of California - Riverside discovered a chemical produced by plants that prevents bacterial biofilm formation. This breakthrough offers potential advances in healthcare and industrial settings, where biofilms cause significant problems.
A new self-destructing vaccine provides improved safety and protection against TB in macaque monkeys, outperforming the standard BCG vaccine. The 'kill switch' mechanism eliminates the risk of accidental infection, offering a safer vaccination option for immunocompromised individuals.
A recent study reveals that psychological stress impairs macrophage function, leading to worsened skin allergy symptoms. Stress disrupts the ability of anti-inflammatory macrophages to clear dead cells, allowing eosinophils to infiltrate and exacerbate allergic responses.
A longitudinal cohort study reveals that early-life infection burden may continue throughout childhood, increasing the risk of future infections and antibiotics use. The findings suggest that high infection burdens in early life are independently associated with later antibiotic treatments.
A study from the University of Gothenburg found that digital healthcare consultations are not reliable enough to assess tonsillitis due to limitations in criteria such as tonsil inspection and lymph node examination. Physical examinations remain crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Researchers are discovering selenium nanoparticles' potential in cancer prevention, inflammation reduction, and tumor treatment through their ability to activate the immune system and reduce inflammation. SeNPs are also being explored as vaccine adjuvants to improve immune cell activation and boost cancer vaccine efficacy.
A study by the University of Surrey found that high-quality face masks reduce transmission risk by ninefold and doubling indoor air ventilation cuts it by nearly a third. Improving ventilation and physical distancing further minimizes the risk.
Researchers have discovered that climate change and tsetse fly control measures can drive molecular changes in African trypanosomes, enabling them to infect animals without flies. New strains with reduced life cycles have been detected in Asia, South America, and southern Europe.
A live-attenuated vaccine against Lassa virus has been developed and shown to be safe and 100% effective in protecting guinea pigs from the virus. The vaccine was created by modifying the genome of the virus to prevent it from causing disease, making it a promising candidate for future clinical trials.
A new study reports a 60% decline in global diarrheal disease mortality, but highlights regional disparities and areas for improvement, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. The largest decrease was among children under 5 years old, with a 79% drop in deaths, while adults 70+ still face high mortality rates.
A recent study published in Clinical Infectious Diseases found that adherence to national medical guidelines for using antiviral medications in young children with influenza is limited. Almost half of hospitalized children did not receive antiviral therapy, highlighting the need for improved clinical testing and treatment.
Cases of whooping cough are increasing in the US, with over 28,000 cases reported this year. A nationally representative survey found that many people lack knowledge about the disease's symptoms and vaccine effectiveness.
UC San Diego researchers identified the key reason for vaccine failures against Staphylococcus aureus: overabundance of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in B cells and helper T cells. Blocking IL-10 restores vaccine efficacy, suggesting a potential solution to combat this deadly bacterium.
Researchers discovered that serine inhibits the cell wall remodeling necessary for Clostridium perfringens to form spores, preventing food poisoning. The study provides insights into the underlying mechanism of spore formation and may lead to new strategies for preventing foodborne illnesses.
Researchers discovered a protein variant acting like a tuning dial to regulate interferon signaling, impacting immune function and disease susceptibility. The balance between this variant and the normal protein may vary from person to person, contributing to individual differences in immune responses.
Charles Shoemaker, a Tufts University professor, has been named Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors for his work on developing immunotherapeutics. His research focuses on creating antibody-based agents that can prevent and cure diseases, including those caused by viruses and bacteria.
Researchers have identified a molecular strategy employed by worm parasites to evade host immune defenses, offering promising solutions for addressing major infectious diseases, allergies, and asthma. By analyzing the unique immune-regulatory properties of helminths, scientists pinpointed key features essential to their activity.
A UK study reveals a software tool increased child vaccinations by over 1,000; healthcare professionals praise digital tool's impact on timely vaccination. The 'APL-Imms' tool uses data to identify due vaccinations and helps reduce vaccine-preventable diseases.
Dartmouth researchers propose a new way of thinking about masking and social distancing rules using game theory, considering them as two distinct actions. The study finds that people respond differently to these measures based on their perception of the disease's severity, trending towards masking or no protective action over time.
Researchers developed a novel computational pipeline to identify protein biomarkers linked to Alzheimer's risk, offering insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. The pipeline, MR-SPI, can predict 3D structural changes in proteins, providing a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving disease.
A growing number of engineered stone countertop workers are developing silicosis, a long-term lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust. The disease can lead to respiratory failure, increased risk of infection, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have created a DNA-made nanorobot called NanoGripper that can pick up COVID-19 viruses for rapid detection and block viral particles from entering cells. The device also has potential applications in cancer treatment and preventive medicine.
Researchers at USF Health have created the first ever peer-reviewed guide to audio podcasts dedicated to infectious diseases. The study highlights 38 popular infectious disease-oriented audio podcasts, including a new USF Health series called Contagion: An Infectious Diseases Podcast.
Two studies found that multidrug-resistant Enterobacterales, particularly Escherichia coli ST131 and Providencia stuartii NDM-1, are spreading in healthcare and community settings across Europe. The emergence of these resistant bacteria poses a significant threat to carbapenem treatment effectiveness.
Researchers found that Florida panthers are not at increased risk for contracting chronic wasting disease from eating infected deer. The study provides relief to conservation efforts, as the disease has spread through North America's deer and elk populations.
A recent study using regression discontinuity found that COVID-19 rates were higher among school-eligible children compared to those not eligible during in-person semesters. However, the difference decreased with each semester, and transmission was lower among school-eligible children during summer breaks.
World health leaders outlined policy recommendations to tackle TB among refugee and migrant populations, leveraging successful experiences from regional countries. The report's ten strategies aim to guide stakeholders worldwide in achieving TB elimination for all.
A 30-year study reveals changes in incidence and mortality rates of 15 common neonatal infectious diseases across LMICs, identifying key trends and areas for targeted public health interventions. Higher socio-demographic index and universal health coverage are generally associated with reduced disease burden.
A new optical biosensor can detect the monkeypox virus within two minutes, allowing for rapid diagnosis and treatment. The technology has the potential to curb the spread of mpox and prepare for future pandemics, especially in countries with sparse healthcare resources.
The partnership aims to co-develop innovative technologies for enhanced health and economic outcomes. Key findings include the need for collaborative research to counter emerging challenges presented by tropical ID, and inform pandemic preparedness strategies.
The study analyzed antibody profiles from humans in three countries to reconstruct historical seasonal influenza patterns and individual lifetime infection histories. The findings revealed variation in incidence and antibody dynamics over the life course.
A study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine found nearly half of opioid overdose patients tested positive for hepatitis C. The infection can cause chronic liver disease and even liver failure or cancer if left undiagnosed.
Researchers at Houston Methodist have identified a new strain of bacteria, Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), linked to increasingly severe human infections. The study used integrative analysis to investigate the genome, transcriptome, and virulence of SDSE strains, shedding light on their molecular pathogenesis.
Aspiring physicians from underrepresented groups will receive travel grants and coursework in metagenomic sequencing and genomic epidemiology through new initiatives launched by CZ Biohub SF and The 15 White Coats. The partnership aims to diversify healthcare for marginalized communities.
Researchers found that TTA reverses meldonium-induced changes in fatty acid synthesis and elongation, alleviating liver fat accumulation. Alterations in delta-6 desaturase activity and plasma L-carnitine levels play a critical role in hepatic steatosis.