Articles tagged with Sars
Scientists adapted a molecular biology technique called mass spectrometry-based genotyping to quickly detect and analyze the SARS virus from clinical samples. This breakthrough provides valuable information on transmission routes and containment policies.
Researchers at UC Santa Cruz have identified a highly conserved RNA structure, known as s2m RNA, in the SARS virus. This unique feature appears to be capable of binding to proteins involved in regulating protein synthesis in cells, leading scientists to hypothesize that it may hijack the host cell's machinery for viral use.
The NIAID human clinical vaccine trial tests an experimental vaccine composed of a small circular piece of DNA encoding the viral spike protein. The trial aims to assess the vaccine's safety and immune-stimulating effects in people, with results expected to inform future vaccine development.
Researchers studied social implications of winner and loser effects in green swordtail fish, nocturnal colour vision in geckos, and bird distress calls. They also examined queen and worker policing in wasps and developed a model to minimize the impact of exotic infections.
The SARS outbreak highlighted the importance of preparedness and response in hospitals. Quarantine strategies proved ineffective as most cases were acquired in hospital settings. In contrast, Taiwan successfully replaced quarantine with better preparedness for future pandemics.
The Lancet editorial advocates for free access to genome data, highlighting its benefits in accelerating research on diseases such as SARS. This open-access policy promotes international cooperation, trust, and altruism, offering a compelling alternative to bioweapons.
Chemical genetics was used to identify novel small-molecule inhibitors of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus. The study revealed four compounds that effectively inhibited the replication of the virus, providing new hope for the treatment of SARS.
Researchers used glycan microarrays to explore novel immunologic targets for SARS-CoV. The study found undesired autoantibody reactivity against human serum glycoprotein ASOR, prompting concerns over the safety of whole-viral SARS vaccines.
Researchers have developed a new method to generate human SARS antibodies quickly, which could offer a potent frontline defense and effective treatment for those exposed to the virus. The technique successfully neutralized the SARS virus in laboratory mice, providing promising results for potential serotherapy.
Researchers have developed an intranasal SARS vaccine that protects African green monkeys from infection with a single dose, delivering the vaccine directly into the respiratory tract. The vaccine targets the SARS spike protein and induces neutralizing antibodies against the virus.
Researchers have successfully developed a human SARS immunisation in animal studies, showing that monkeys vaccinated with the SARS vaccine had antibodies to the virus and no evidence of viral shedding. In contrast, control group monkeys without vaccination showed significant viral shedding after infection.
Airborne viruses were detected in 32% of office building air filters, with higher carbon dioxide levels linked to increased exposure risk. Researchers also found that healthcare workers treating SARS patients were at high risk of developing the disease due to endotracheal intubation.
Researchers develop two SARS vaccine candidates that effectively protect mice from infection, utilizing different technologies to stimulate the immune system. The vaccines target the S protein, a key component of the coronavirus responsible for initiating infection.
The NIAID-developed DNA vaccine significantly reduced SARS virus levels in infected mice, with antibodies alone responsible for the dramatic reduction. This breakthrough demonstrates the effectiveness of a novel vaccine approach against SARS, paving the way for future human clinical trials.
Researchers at NIAID have found that mouse immune systems produce antibodies capable of single-handedly neutralizing the SARS virus. This discovery confirms that vaccines triggering antibodies to the SARS virus are on the right track, and could lead to a faster development of effective vaccines or antiviral drugs.
A recent study examines seroprevalence of non-pneumonic SARS-CoV infections in general population and healthcare workers. The findings suggest that non-pneumonic infections are more common than SARS-CoV pneumonia, shedding light on possible explanations for cases with no obvious contact to other patients.
The study highlights the need for greater support and educational intervention during infectious disease outbreaks. Front-line health care workers are at real danger of becoming infected, as seen in SARS cases where 20% of infected individuals were healthcare workers.
A study by Singapore investigators found that SARS infection occurred in healthcare workers with normal chest X-rays, even those not directly exposed to patients. The researchers detected SARS antibodies in 8 out of 112 exposed workers, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Scientists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have identified a human monoclonal antibody that blocks SARS virus infection by neutralizing its entry into cultured cells. The antibody, isolated from a collection of 27 billion antibodies, shows promise in animal tests and could be developed for clinical trials to prevent and treat the disease.
Researchers analyzed 63 SARS viruses from three phases of the 2002-2003 epidemic and found significant genetic adaptations, including a rapid mutation rate and unique molecular fingerprints. The study suggests that containing outbreaks quickly is crucial before the virus becomes more difficult to control.
Researchers found that patients treated with corticosteroids plus interferon alfacon-1 experienced faster resolution of chest x-ray abnormalities and improved oxygen saturation levels compared to those treated with corticosteroids alone. This suggests that combination therapy may be a promising approach for treating SARS.
A total of 2,521 probable cases were reported in Beijing during the SARS outbreak. The city's swift response, including improved infection control practices and quarantine measures, likely contributed to the rapid decline in new cases.
Researchers believe SARS evolved from a rare recombination of mammalian and avian viruses, enabling it to evade human immune systems. The study sheds light on the evolutionary history of SARS, which may hold clues to designing effective treatments and vaccines.
A new form of coronavirus was genetically altered to resemble parts of the SARS virus, then injected into rhesus macaques. The results showed strong immune responses against SARS in all immunized animals, suggesting a potential protective vaccine.
Researchers immunized six rhesus macaques with a combination of SARS-CoV vectors, showing strong neutralizing capacity against the virus. The vaccine induced both antibody and cell-mediated immune responses, providing protection against subsequent exposure.
A report from the University of Louisville's Institute for Bioethics, Health Policy and Law highlights the importance of effective communication in successful SARS quarantines, with key findings including the need for a single spokesperson and regular channels to boost compliance.
Research by Dennis Lo and colleagues found that viral sequences from two major Hong Kong SARS outbreaks were nearly identical, with only three nucleotide differences. This suggests that non-viral genomic factors may have played a role in the distinct clinical features of the Amoy Gardens outbreak.
The Flu Chip will enable doctors to swiftly diagnose respiratory illness, including influenza A, B and C, SARS, and other viruses. The technology uses DNA microarrays to provide genetic information, aiding in the management of local epidemics and worldwide pandemics.
Columbia researchers have developed a classification system for turning SAR data into detailed maps of landscape elements like water, vegetation, and rocks. This technology has shown superiority over optical remote sensing in identifying disaster zones, particularly during nighttime or with smoke and dust present.
The SARS epidemic taught four important lessons: the need for global cooperation, improved public health infrastructure, care for patients despite personal risk, and measures to minimize infectious risks to healthcare workers. The response to SARS demonstrates that a strong public health infrastructure can help contain outbreaks and pr...
A breakthrough discovery has been made by McMaster University researchers, who have cloned the gene that marks an important nuclear protein of the SARS virus. The team plans to test their newly engineered adenovirus vector in animals for protective effects against the deadly disease.
A recent study found treating older adults with the flu to be cost-effective, while a Hong Kong-based SARS study reveals higher-than-expected mortality rates, highlighting the need for more effective diagnostic tools.
The rat vector hypothesis suggests that rats may have spread SARS in the Amoy Gardens apartment block. Epidemiological case-control studies could be undertaken to identify behavioural risk factors and possible mechanisms for rat-to-man infections. This hypothesis is a strong possibility that needs to be further explored.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is common among older men, affecting one-third of men aged 53-90, with increasing age being a significant risk factor. Modifiable health behaviors such as physical activity and leanness are associated with maintaining good erectile function.
A study by James Lloyd-Smith and colleagues found that hospital-wide infection controls are crucial in preventing disease transmission. The research highlights the importance of general infection control measures over specific precautions for known cases, particularly in developing countries where resources may be limited.
The Protein Data Bank has released the three-dimensional structure of the SARS virus protease, which will accelerate the search for effective treatments. The rapid processing enabled by PDB's technology will enable more efficient paths to developing drugs for treating SARS.
Researchers found that recombinant interferons were effective against SARS-CoV replication, with interferon beta showing prophylactic protection and antiviral potential. Interferon alpha was less effective but could be a potential drug of choice in combination with other antiviral drugs.
A novel coronavirus has been confirmed as the primary causal agent of SARS, according to a study. The virus was found to infect the lower respiratory tract, leading to severe lung damage and disease symptoms. The discovery was made through laboratory studies of patients and experimental infections in macaques.
A newly discovered protein causes blood clots in the livers of humans with viral hepatitis and mice exposed to corona virus. Blocking this protein may offer a new approach to treating patients with chronic viral hepatitis and potentially SARS.
The NIAID is distributing the GeneChip SARS Array at no cost to qualified researchers worldwide, providing a powerful tool to better understand the SARS coronavirus and its spread. The array will help scientists achieve objectives such as constructing a family tree of SARS coronaviruses and tracing the virus's evolution.
The medical publishing industry has seen a significant acceleration in its pace of production, driven by technological advancements and innovative strategies. This shift is expected to have a positive impact on the quality and timeliness of medical research and knowledge dissemination.
Researchers at Frankfurt University Medical School have assessed the antiviral potential of five drugs against the SARS coronavirus. Glycyrrhizin, an antiviral agent proven to treat HIV-1 and hepatitis C, is the most active compound in inhibiting replication, with increased nitric oxide synthesis contributing to its effectiveness.
A study of 14 healthcare workers with SARS reveals lingering after effects and psychosocial impacts. The research highlights the challenges of discharging patients and provides valuable insights into treatment regimens and disease progression.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have identified a protease in the SARS virus genome, which could be a target for new drugs. The team is now working to characterize the protease's structure and properties to validate its value as a drug development target.
Researchers used data on recent SARS cases to project how the epidemic will proceed under various circumstances. They found that careful interventions, such as reducing contacts and improving treatment, can control the spread of the virus.
Researchers propose pathogenic bacteria and viruses could originate from outer space, citing the unusual nature of major epidemics like SARS. The novel virus in SARS has been identified as a possible explanation for its unexpected appearance and global spread.
A global network of scientists identified a new coronavirus as the cause of SARS, rapidly developing diagnostic tests and sharing data in real-time. Three diagnostic tests are now available, but limitations exist, highlighting the need for further work to develop reliable and sensitive tests.
A study of 73 patients with symptoms suggestive of SARS found that CT scans identified three common features: ground-glass opacification, lower lobe distribution, and peripheral distribution. These findings suggest that CT can be a valuable diagnostic tool for detecting SARS, particularly in cases where chest x-rays are normal.
Researchers found that many patients with SARS developed recurrent fever and worsening lung conditions after initial improvement. The immune system's excessive response to the virus may be responsible for this clinical deterioration in the second week after hospitalization.
Researchers have identified two distinct genotypes of the SARS virus, linked to geographic clusters of infections. The study provides valuable insights into the genetic makeup of the virus, which could inform public health strategies and vaccine development.
A major study of 1425 SARS cases in Hong Kong found that public health interventions, including rapid hospital admissions and contact tracing, have successfully reduced the spread of the disease. The study also revealed a higher fatality rate for older patients, with case fatality rates ranging from 13.2% to 55.0% depending on age.
The study found that the fatality rate for patients over 60 was significantly higher (43.3%) compared to those under 60 (13.2%), with an average admission to death time of 36 days. Public health measures, including hospital quarantine and contact tracing, helped slow the outbreak.
The article reports on the release of the first peer-reviewed SARS genome sequence, confirming a new variety of coronavirus and providing insights into the virus's molecular components. The genomic sequence is expected to aid in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS.
Researchers found that wearing surgical masks significantly reduces the risk of SARS transmission for healthcare workers. In contrast, staff members who did not wear masks were more likely to contract the disease despite following other safety protocols.
A study of 10 young children with SARS found that they exhibited milder symptoms such as cough and runny nose, unlike teenagers who showed symptoms similar to adults. The clinical course was also shorter and less aggressive among younger patients.
The editorial highlights China's slow information-gathering from rural districts and secretive attitude to national health statistics as major challenges. A concerted effort to compile accurate statistics on HIV/AIDS prevalence could demonstrate China's ability to learn from its mistakes and acknowledge global responsibilities.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal reports on the hospital's experience managing the outbreak and reorganizing care. Dr. David Patrick of the BCCDC discusses why BC's case numbers are low, despite being a hotspot for travel from Asia.
A new human coronavirus has been identified as a likely cause of SARS, according to a study published in The Lancet. The virus was found in 90% of patients with SARS, but its genetic analysis suggests it may have originated from animals.
Researchers from UCSB and OSU have identified SAR 11 bacterioplankton, comprising up to 50% of the surface microbial community, using fluorescence in situ hybridization. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the role of microbes in natural systems and their impact on the ocean's ecosystem.