Articles tagged with Viral Infections
A 24-week course of sofosbuvir and ribavirin prevents HCV recurrence after liver transplantation, with positive outcomes for short- and long-term health. The therapy is effective in 70% of patients, including those with advanced disease.
Researchers found that even minimal mutations in viral RNA can make it too bulky for the capsid, preventing replication. The study used computer simulations and verified previous research on optimized RNA packing.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that RSV infection may increase the risk of pneumococcal pneumonia, especially in infants. High RSV activity was associated with significant increases in pneumococcal disease among children under one year old.
A new system between the gut and nervous system may be more direct than hormone release in signaling fullness. The connection also suggests a potential pathway for foodborne viruses to infect the brain.
Researchers have advanced understanding of rotavirus's attack on human cells through carbohydrate receptors, providing clues for anti-rotaviral drugs. The discovery has implications for childhood susceptibility to rotavirus disease and offers potential for new vaccine development strategies.
In a Hong Kong hospital, proactive infection control measures implemented since March 2013 successfully controlled the spread of Avian flu (A H7N9), with only two patient cases and no staff infections reported. The integrated approach utilized active surveillance, rapid molecular diagnostic testing, and hand hygiene protocols.
A study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine suggests that contact between humans and virus-infected bats may have originated the Ebola outbreak in West Africa. The researchers found no evidence of larger wildlife being the source of infection, expanding the range of possible Ebola virus sources to insectivorous free-tailed bats.
Researchers at Aarhus University have found that genetic variations in the interferon lambda 4 protein impact treatment effectiveness for hepatitis C. This discovery suggests that personalized medicine targeting specific genetic variants could lead to better treatment outcomes for patients.
Many HCV patients are lost in healthcare due to inadequate screening, testing, and treatment. A new study found that up to 70% of those with acute infection have no symptoms until years later.
Researchers identified 53 existing drugs that can hinder Ebola virus entry into human cells, including cancer drugs and antibiotics. This study may lead to rapid development of treatments against Ebola infection.
Simple screenings of organ donors can help minimize the risk of Ebola transmission through organ donation. Experts recommend excluding individuals who have recently traveled to or worked in countries where Ebola is active for a 21-day period before they can donate organs.
Researchers at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute have developed a potential cure for chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. The new treatment, birinapant, triggers the breakdown of proteins that prevent infected cells from self-destructing, allowing infected cells to die.
New studies suggest that MERS-CoV is unlikely to reach epidemic status due to effective infection control measures. The virus exhibits a high mortality rate, but hospital-acquired infections dominate the epidemiology. Prolonged infection control measures are crucial in severely ill patients with MERS-CoV.
A new study has shown that a simeprevir-based therapy is as effective as the standard of care in treating chronic Hepatitis C virus infection, with fewer adverse events. The study found that simeprevir was well-tolerated and could be a viable alternative for patients who cannot access or afford newer treatment options.
Researchers from Mainz and Würzburg have developed new active substances for treating the dengue virus, showing a high effectiveness rate even at low concentrations. The new inhibitors target only dengue viruses without affecting similar Hepatitis C viruses.
Ebola virus disease is a febrile illness with severe gastrointestinal symptoms that can cause profound water and electrolyte depletion leading to circulatory collapse and death. Implementing practical protocols for managing fluids and electrolytes has not been given sufficient priority, which could substantially reduce the death rate.
Scientists discovered that SPLUNC1 binds to pulmonary lipids to fight lung infection, keeping airways flexible and hydrated. This finding brings the protein closer to becoming a viable therapy for asthma and COPD patients.
The authors of a Transfusion commentary argue that forgoing routine lab tests may compromise patients' health more than any reduction in the risk of transmission. Experts recommend implementing well-characterized infection prevention and control recommendations to provide a safe environment for both patients and employees.
Medical experts call for radical improvements in UK liver disease treatment and detection, citing a 'postcode lottery' for patients. The commission recommends increasing specialist centers and improving primary care services to address excessive alcohol use and obesity.
Scientists have developed protective human antibodies using DNA-vaccinated cows, which showed potent neutralizing activity against two types of hantaviruses. The antibodies protected hamsters from lethal disease caused by these viruses, with seven out of eight treated animals surviving without symptoms.
A study by researchers at the University of Edinburgh reveals that parasites can hide their genetic material inside 'vesicles' that mimic natural cellular functions, suppressing the immune response. This discovery could inform new strategies for treating diseases caused by parasitic worms, as well as allergies like hayfever.
Researchers discovered that a key Ebola virus protein can trigger an excessive immune response, leading to massive inflammation and increased vascular permeability. This finding suggests a potential new target for reducing the severity of Ebola disease.
Scientists have determined the complete structure of the influenza virus polymerase, a key machine that makes copies of the virus' genetic material and reads out instructions. The high-resolution structure reveals how the polymerase works as a whole, providing new insights into its function and potential targets for drug design.
Researchers at NYU Langone Health found that infection with a common virus helped mice repair damaged intestinal tissue and restore their immune defenses. The study suggests that the virome, or natural presence of viruses in the gut, plays a crucial role in maintaining health and fighting infections.
Radiologists have issued a special report on radiology preparedness for handling cases of Ebola virus, outlining protocols and recommendations for healthcare administrators. The report emphasizes the importance of clear communication, proper equipment use, and specialized isolation units to prevent infection of medical personnel.
A cell study has uncovered a gene mutation that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack the body, leading to diseases like Lupus and Motor Neurone Disease. Researchers found that a defect in an alarm system protects the body from viruses and other infections.
A study found that flu viruses expressing specific avian hemagglutinins led to fatal infections in mice and caused significant cell damage in human lung cells. These findings suggest that certain hemagglutinins may induce programmed cell death, leading to enhanced disease severity.
Researchers created a 24-atom protein assembly that self-assembles into a porous molecular cube. This breakthrough could lead to the development of synthetic vaccines and targeted medicine delivery inside human cells. The discovery was made by UCLA biochemists led by Todd Yeates.
Researchers have created a new mouse model that allows them to study human glia in live animals, enabling the development of potential treatments for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The study found that the JC virus targets astrocytes, leading to inflammation and cell death, which can trigger PML.
The ferret genome sequencing study provides insights into the effects of pandemic flu and cystic fibrosis on respiratory tissues. The analysis shows distinct responses in the trachea and lungs to different viruses, shedding light on the course of infection.
A new study published in the British journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B suggests that increased genetic diversity can limit the spread and severity of viral infections in livestock and endangered species. Researchers found that viruses replicated more slowly and caused less severe disease when transmitted through genetically di...
A new study found that black children are less likely to be diagnosed with and receive broad-spectrum antibiotics for ear infections compared to white children. This disparity may be due to overtreatment and overdiagnosis in white children, and undertreatment and underdiagnosis in black children.
A mathematical model predicts that around 10 of 29 people with Ebola are likely to be detected at airport screening when trying to travel from West Africa to the UK and US by the end of the year.
For the first time, clinicians have successfully provided hemodialysis to a patient with Ebola virus disease, resulting in recovery of kidney function. The protocol involved careful measures to maximize safety and minimize risk of secondary transmission, demonstrating that renal replacement therapies can be provided safely.
Researchers have developed a self-repairing software called A3 that detects and eradicates malware, repairing damage and preventing re-infection. The software can repair complex security vulnerabilities in minutes without taking servers down.
A study found that patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis who attain SVR have survival rates comparable to those of the general population. However, patients without SVR experience reduced overall survival.
A new study has identified genetic material that recognizes early stages of infection in patients with hemorrhagic fevers, such as Lassa and Marburg viruses. This discovery could lead to the development of better diagnostics and improved treatment outcomes.
A new therapy to eradicate liver cells infected with hepatitis B virus has shown promising results in pre-clinical research. The treatment aims to clear patients of the disease, offering hope for those with chronic HBV infection. Dr Greg Ebert's work could lead to significant improvements in health outcomes for Australians and worldwide.
Researchers have discovered a way to grow a human norovirus by identifying a cell it targets in the intestine, enabling the study of its replication and potential treatments. The virus targets B cells, rather than intestinal epithelial cells, and is aided by gut bacteria in its infection process.
Researchers analyzed the host range of canine parvovirus (CPV) and found that viruses in domestic dogs and raccoons could infect a wider range of wild carnivores than previously thought. The study identified specific genetic changes associated with host adaptation, suggesting that these mutations can overcome barriers to infection.
The rate of hospitalization due to hepatitis A virus infection has declined significantly in the US, with a decrease from 0.72 to 0.29 per 100,000 cases between 2002 and 2011. Vaccination of adults with chronic liver disease may help prevent HAV infection and hospitalization.
A new study reveals that canine distemper virus (CDV) poses a significant risk to tiger populations, particularly in smaller groups. Modeling shows that CDV infection can increase the 50-year extinction probability of tigers by up to 55.8 percent.
Researchers discovered that Ebola and Marburg viruses edit their genetic material by adding extra nucleotides to their RNA. This process, known as RNA editing, was previously unknown in these viruses and could lead to a better understanding of their biology and the development of new treatments.
Researchers discovered flu infection prompts immune cells to migrate to gut, altering bacterial composition and causing inflammation that promotes tissue injury. Blocking inflammatory molecules or antibiotics attenuates intestinal injury, suggesting relief options for flu-induced gastrointestinal symptoms.
A University of Adelaide-led project has developed a new test that can identify vaccinated birds with live H5N1 virus, preventing the spread of emerging strains. This breakthrough could help track and control the highly contagious avian influenza virus.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill have developed a genetic strain of mice that accurately reflect human Ebola symptoms. The new mouse model enables rapid development of potential vaccines and treatments, addressing the global public health crisis caused by Ebola.
Researchers recommend shifting from expanding to declining Ebola epidemic through hygienic funeral practices, case isolation, contact tracing, and better health worker protection. Achieving these goals at a success rate of about 60 percent could ultimately curtail the epidemic in Liberia.
A new mouse model reveals that genetic factors play a significant role in the severity of Ebola disease. Research suggests that certain genetic lines of mice are more resistant to the virus, while others are highly susceptible to severe illness and death. The findings could lead to rapid development of candidate therapeutics and vaccines.
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that maintenance opioid agonist therapy with methadone or buprenorphine reduces the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among young injection-drug users. The treatment was associated with a lower risk of HCV transmission, highlighting its potential as a prevention strategy.
Researchers have discovered that multiple viruses share an L-shaped switch in their RNA genomes, which can be flipped to prevent replication. The discovery has implications for developing new drugs to inhibit viral replication, particularly for hepatitis C virus.
A study found that maintenance opioid agonist therapy with methadone or buprenorphine reduced the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in young injection-drug users. The treatment strategy is crucial for preventing the spread of HCV among this high-risk group.
Researchers developed a random transmission model to determine how disease progression and case fatality affect transmission and patient isolation. Isolating the sickest Ebola-infected individuals before they progress into their late phase of illness can effectively eliminate the Ebola epidemic in Liberia.
Only 6% of US hospitals are well-prepared to receive a patient with the Ebola virus, highlighting inadequate personnel and resources. APIC urges facilities to assess their infection prevention programs to protect healthcare workers, patients, and the public.
Researchers found that birds grouped together are less susceptible to West Nile virus infection, with a significant decrease in exposure compared to solo birds. This phenomenon, known as the 'encounter-dilution effect', suggests that individual risk is minimized when multiple birds roost together.
A new study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases predicts that the Ebola epidemic in West Africa will worsen unless international aid is significantly increased. The model developed by Yale researchers estimates tens of thousands of new cases and deaths by December 15 if current efforts are not intensified.
Researchers found that once CD8 T cells fight one pathogen, they join the body's innate immune system, ready to respond to a wide variety of infections. This discovery suggests that adaptive CD8 T cells can contribute to innate immunity and may have important implications for vaccine design.
Phytoplankton, tiny photosynthetic organisms, play a crucial role in regulating the Earth's carbon content. A new study reveals that viruses can rapidly wipe out blooms, fixing large amounts of organic carbon in the process.
Breakthroughs in HCV therapy suggest increased cure rates, including for patients with cirrhosis. Fecal microbiota transplantation shows promise in treating C. difficile, while drug-induced liver injury warnings are also emphasized.
A new study published in Diabetologia found that children infected with enterovirus were 48% more likely to develop type 1 diabetes. The study's results suggest a positive correlation between EV infection and the incidence of type 1 diabetes, which may be driven by environmental factors in regions with high EV prevalence.
Two new pill-only regimens have been developed to treat genotype 1 hepatitis C, with a sustained virological response achieved in 90% of previously untreated patients and 82% of those who failed previous treatment. These regimens show promise as simpler, safer, and faster alternatives to current therapies.