Articles tagged with Infectious Diseases
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antifungal molecules called coniotins, which show potent activity against Candida auris and other fungal pathogens. The discovery responds to a growing clinical need for new antifungal medicines.
Researchers identify key symptom categories and biomarkers for anti-NMDAR encephalitis, a rare autoimmune brain condition. Clinical manifestations suggest the presence of anti-NMDAR encephalitis through NMDA antibody checks, uric acid levels, C-reactive protein, and thyroid-related hormones.
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology examine how genetics, sex hormones, and environmental factors shape the immune system. Women have a stronger immune response due to their XX chromosomes and estrogen, but also face an increased risk of autoimmune diseases.
A multi-year clinical research study in US children documents the rebound of endemic respiratory viruses after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study shows that non-pharmaceutical interventions decreased circulation rates of common respiratory pathogens in children, enabling more accurate predictions for future outbreaks.
A new study found that most air cleaning technologies have not been tested on humans and their potential risks are not yet fully understood. Researchers recommend choosing technologies independently tested in real-world environments to reduce illness in homes, schools, or workplaces.
A national study finds that the percentage of patients who wait four or more hours for a hospital bed has increased significantly, with even lower rates during non-peak months. The issue, known as 'boarding,' has become a major concern, putting patient safety at risk and straining emergency departments.
Researchers conducted a randomized clinical trial to compare low- and high-dose methylprednisolone with azithromycin for treating severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. The study found that lower dose regimen of glucocorticoids is sufficient, equally effective, and safer than the high dose regimen.
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases has shown that combining country-level information with individual-level variables can improve the identification of soil-transmitted helminth infections among migrant populations. Researchers found that country-level indicators are stronger predictors than individual-level variable...
A UK study monitored antimicrobial resistance and influenza viruses in water bodies frequented by wild birds, finding widespread AMR genes in 92% of samples. Influenza virus was detected in just 3.4% of samples, highlighting the need for more sensitive detection methods.
A nationwide study found that financial hardship, food insecurity, lack of healthcare access, and other social risk factors increase the risk of long COVID. The RECOVER-Adult cohort study analyzed 3,700 participants and found significant associations between individual-level social risk factors and increased risk of developing long COVID.
A nationwide study in Ukraine found substantial lifetime exposure to hepatitis B and C viruses, with significant ongoing circulation among the population. The study emphasizes the need for hepatitis B vaccination among infants and risk groups, as well as regular screening, treatment, and awareness-raising efforts.
A new study has identified genetic changes in the parasite responsible for trichomoniasis that may have helped it adapt to human hosts. The research found dozens of genes associated with key functions such as phagocytosis and exosomes, which could be exploited for future treatments.
A team of researchers led by Simona Stäger identified IRF-5 as a guardian of T cell metabolism and mitochondrial function. The discovery provides new strategies for boosting immunity to chronic infections or cancers, where T cell exhaustion is observed. IRF-5's role in preserving immune cell energy could play a key role in this approach.
Researchers find that albumin triggers a shift in fungal behavior, causing previously non-harmful Candida strains to grow strongly and release toxic compounds.
A study published in PLOS One found a clear link between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of being hospitalized by COVID-19. However, no association was found between low vitamin D and the risk of catching COVID-19.
Researchers have discovered ancestral evolutionary links of Aspergillus latus strains through genome sequencing analyses, revealing potential for reduced susceptibility to antifungal medications. The study highlights the need for improved molecular diagnostic tools to accurately identify A. latus strains and manage aspergillosis.
This study uses an analytical model to examine the effects of influenza vaccination on both vaccinated and unvaccinated populations. The results show that vaccination provides significant reductions in disease burden, even when vaccine effectiveness is low, but these benefits are limited in high transmission situations.
A new study from Cornell University researchers found that avian flu causes severe mastitis and decreased milk production in dairy cows. The economic loss is estimated to be around $950 per clinically affected cow, totaling approximately $737,500 for a single herd.
The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation predicts a 8% decline in development assistance for health by 2030, following a 51% decrease since 2021. This could compromise global health progress, particularly for vulnerable populations and infectious disease treatment.
A UK clinical trial found that almost nine in ten patients with a penicillin allergy label were not truly allergic after testing, and had their allergy label safely removed. This could help patients access more effective antibiotics and combat antibiotic resistance.
Researchers from University of Zurich and Basel decode historical specimen to understand how 1918-1920 influenza pandemic evolved in Europe. The Swiss genome reveals three key adaptations that made the virus more resistant to human immunity and more infectious.
Researchers identified over 250 proteins that change during malaria infection, enabling patients to be grouped according to severity. This allows for quicker identification of high-risk patients and more effective treatment.
Researchers used an optogenetic platform to discover dozens of molecules that can act as pan-antivirals, including two chemical scaffolds that could serve as development candidates. The compounds were tested on Zika, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and herpes, showing promising results.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control warns of an increased risk of Vibrio infections throughout the summer season due to rising sea surface temperatures. Several northern countries bordering the Baltic Sea have reported increases in recent years, with serious infections possible through foodborne or skin contact.
A Danish study finds that HPV vaccination has reduced prevalence of high-risk HPV types among vaccinated women, suggesting population immunity. However, non-vaccine types remain common and new infections occur more frequently in vaccinated women than unvaccinated women.
Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is a rare but deadly disease in the US, caused by a mosquito bite. People at risk include those living near swamps or marshes and outdoor workers, such as farmers and campers.
A new study has mapped the history of infectious diseases across millennia, offering insights into how human-animal interactions transformed our health landscape. The research analyzed ancient DNA from over 1,300 prehistoric individuals, revealing that zoonotic diseases became more widespread around 5,000 years ago.
Diphtheria is still being reported in Europe, with cases higher than before 2020, affecting vulnerable populations like homeless individuals, migrants, and those who use or inject drugs. ECDC recommends tailored public health response measures to protect these groups.
A new study found that over 30% of kissing bugs in Florida harbor the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, which causes Chagas disease. The researchers suggest preventative measures such as inspecting homes for entry points and removing wood piles to safeguard against transmission.
Researchers found that combining RFA with anti-PD-1 therapy significantly suppressed non-ablated distant HCC tumor growth and prolonged survival in mice. The treatment remodeled the immune microenvironment, promoting durable immune memory against tumor recurrence.
A special issue of Journal of Intensive Medicine provides key insights into selecting optimal non-invasive respiratory support strategies for AHRF, featuring review articles and original research. The collection offers guidance on the efficacy of HFNC, CPAP, NIV, and awake prone positioning to improve patient outcomes.
A recent study in the Netherlands found 15% of men who have sex with men and transgender individuals recently used doxycycline as post- or pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), highlighting an increase in informal use. The high intention to use PrEP among the population raises concerns about potential antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and chan...
A growing crisis of communicable diseases is unfolding in North America, with Canada's health systems being hampered by US cuts to public health and research infrastructure. The spillover effect of these changes will likely affect Canada and other countries globally, compromising disease surveillance and public health preparedness.
Researchers propose using chemical sensors to diagnose bacterial infections by detecting volatile organic compounds in bodily fluids, providing a rapid and affordable diagnostic test. The technology has the potential to improve treatment plans and combat antibiotic resistance.
Researchers analyzed viral loads during early infection to predict disease progression and developed a method to identify patients at risk of severe symptoms. The study suggests that patients with high viral loads are more likely to experience long-lasting skin lesions and severe symptoms.
A community-based pneumococcal vaccination support program in Sera Town, Japan, reduced pneumonia-related mortality by 25% among the elderly. The program reversed a previously increasing trend in pneumonia mortality rate in the community.
Dr. Danielle Beckman's research uses animal models to understand how viruses like COVID-19 trigger neurological damage and accelerate Alzheimer's disease. Her work has established critical connections between viral infections and neurodegenerative processes.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has launched new weekly surveillance updates and public health guidance on mosquito-borne diseases, covering chikungunya, dengue, Zika, and West Nile viruses. The reports provide a comprehensive view of the evolving situation across European countries.
A new study finds that Salmonella Dublin causes increased calf mortality, lower milk yield, and higher medication costs in dairy farms. The disease leads to hidden financial losses due to gradual infection without visible symptoms.
A community-based cohort study found that COVID-19 hospitalization was associated with accelerated declines in cognition among older adults, compared to those not infected. Avoiding severe SARS-CoV-2 infection may help preserve cognitive function in this population.
Researchers at Washington State University discovered how bacteria hijack cellular processes in ticks to ensure their survival and spread to new hosts, including humans. By manipulating the ATF6 protein, the bacteria exploit the tick's natural process of producing cholesterol, which is essential for bacterial growth and survival.
Researchers at Tulane University developed a handheld TB test inspired by the bombardier beetle's natural defense mechanism. The ASTRA device requires only a drop of blood and delivers same-day diagnoses without need for laboratory or trained staff, outperforming traditional tests in detection of TB with HIV co-infection.
The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) has launched a critical care APP education and certification program, covering 11 topic areas including patient-centered care and pharmacology. The CCAPP Certification Exam is now available, with an August 5 deadline to apply for the 2025 exam.
Researchers from ASU and international collaborators tested a handheld DNA sequencing device at six chicken slaughterhouses in Indonesia. The study found signs of antibiotic-resistant bacteria spreading from wastewater into nearby rivers, highlighting the need for targeted solutions to reduce its spread.
A new analysis examines the effectiveness of a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) add-on code targeting infectious disease (ID) physicians. The measure aims to combat the growing shortage of ID physicians and has the potential to reset national benchmarks for ID compensation.
Researchers have discovered two new viruses closely related to Nipah and Hendra viruses, as well as other microorganisms, in bats from Yunnan province. The study highlights the need for comprehensive microbial analyses of previously understudied organs to better assess spillover risks.
A recent study by Texas A&M University shows that smartwatches' health apps and sensors can accurately predict when a person has become infected with a disease, even within 12 hours. This early detection could lower pandemic transmission risk by nearly 50% by providing warnings to people with potential infections.
A University of Minnesota research team has found that measuring SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater continues to accurately predict subsequent COVID-19 case counts in a community. The study demonstrates the continued importance of wastewater surveillance for public health planning and informing real-time decision-making frameworks.
A new study published in KeAi journal Global Transitions found that safe drinking water and sanitation are crucial in preventing cholera. Disparities in WASH access contribute to unequal cholera burden across geographic regions.
A recent study found that ATG5-mediated autophagy in alveolar epithelial cells protects against Pseudomonas infection by preventing inflammation. The mechanism involves the formation of gasdermin D pores, which amplify inflammation through macrophage activation.
Researchers found that HSV-1 deliberately reshapes the human genome within hours of infection, rearranging host genes to facilitate replication. Blocking a single host enzyme, topoisomerase I, completely halted the virus's ability to hijack the genome.
A UC Riverside study found that Toxoplasma gondii can significantly disrupt brain function by interfering with communication between brain cells. Infected neurons release fewer extracellular vesicles, which can lead to seizures, neural damage, or altered brain connectivity.
Researchers at Mass General Brigham have developed a virtual reality training tool to teach clinicians core concepts in infection control, including cleaning and disinfecting portable medical equipment. The pilot study found that 88.6% of participants reported an overall positive experience with the VR module.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet found that infants who survive serious health problems in the first few weeks of life have a higher risk of dying during childhood and adolescence. Children with neurological health problems had almost six times the risk of death compared to healthy children.
Fungicides used in agriculture linked to rising resistance to antifungal medical treatments, experts call for a 'One Health' approach to combat pathogens. The use of pesticides in plants may increase fungal resistance to treatments in humans and animals.
Pregnant individuals are at high risk of measles infection and its complications. Experts emphasize the need for urgent access to IVIG and updated hospital protocols to protect vulnerable groups.
A new rapid test for sexually transmitted infections is being developed with £1m funding, aiming to diagnose infections in under 5 minutes. The test, developed by Linear Diagnostics, uses an exponential amplification technology that detects bacterial DNA quickly and accurately.
A new study found that heatwaves can increase disease burden by up to 13 times, driven by complex interactions between temperature attributes and baseline temperatures. This knowledge is crucial for predicting the impact of heatwaves on disease spread and highlights the need for more detailed models.
A high-throughput neutralisation assay reveals how individual immunity gaps shape flu strain success, highlighting personalised immunity and its impact on virus evolution. The study used large-scale sequencing to quantify antibody responses against circulating H3N2 flu strains in children and adults.
Children born to mothers with a BMI of 35 or higher are at heightened risk of being admitted to hospital for an infection. Maternal obesity is characterised by chronic inflammation, which increases the risk of a disordered immune system response and unfavourable changes to the gut microbiome.