Articles tagged with Viral Infections
Emory University researchers suggest that glutathione could be used as a flu preventive by exposing it directly to the tissues lining the mouth and upper airway. Studies have shown that glutathione reduces cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen, but its effectiveness in preventing disease has been unclear.
Researchers at Arizona State University have identified a viral infection as the likely cause of mass salamander deaths in various regions. The iridovirus, typically found in insects, was detected in infected salamanders across North America and Australia.
Researchers tested commercial household disinfectants against various disease-causing organisms and found them highly effective. Natural products such as vinegar and baking soda were less successful in killing microbes, raising questions about their use for disinfection.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory create a range of metallic tags to label proteins and molecules, enabling the study of molecular structures and behavior. These tags also facilitate the tracking of antibodies and drugs within cells, potentially leading to breakthroughs in disease diagnosis and treatment.
A new study suggests that the US may soon experience an increase in hepatitis C-related carcinoma cases due to a time difference in the spread of the virus. The study found that the incidence of hepatitis C is similar in Japan and the US, but the incidence of related heptacellular carcinoma (HCC) is eight times higher in Japan.
A Montana State University study reveals that deer mice visit buildings for food, with a higher infection rate among indoor mice due to denser populations and viral transmission through urine and saliva. The research aims to develop a way of predicting mouse populations in buildings based on environmental factors.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute is awarding $14 million in grants to support research on infectious and parasitic diseases worldwide. The five-year program will help scientists identify the mechanisms of these diseases and develop new approaches for treatment.
Researchers investigated a 1992 outbreak of viral meningitis in a child care center, finding that handwashing reduced the risk of infection. Changing diapers was a key factor, with women who changed more diapers being at higher risk, while men were less likely to get infected if they washed their hands after changing diapers.
New research reveals malnutrition affects clearance of rotavirus more than immune response, suggesting a new vaccine may be effective in developing countries. The study found nourished piglets recovered faster and had less diarrhea than malnourished pigs.
Researchers found that Chlamydia proteins can trigger an autoimmune response in the host, leading to inflammation of the heart. The link between Chlamydia and heart disease appears to involve an autoimmune disorder, with similar proteins on the pathogen's surface matching those found in human heart muscle.
A study by Johns Hopkins School of Public Health found that nearly 29% of correctional health care workers frequently or always recapped used needles, increasing their risk of bloodborne infections. Inadequate hand washing rates were also common, largely due to limited access to sinks and soap.
Researchers followed 144 HMO patients with mononucleosis for six months, finding transient psychological distress common but few met psychiatric criteria. The study suggests postviral depression is rare, often caused by new stressful life events rather than viral effects.
The Gallup survey reveals that 77% of American moms whose preschool children have suffered from ear infections are concerned about the long-term effects. Despite this, many parents are unaware of how to detect middle ear fluid, which can cause complications such as hearing loss and speech delays.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have isolated a rotaviral strain's receptors, which can be used to create a synthetic mimic that blocks the virus. The team hopes to use this alternative therapy to protect against disease without causing infection.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that cases of life-threatening heart muscle inflammation are declining in the US, corresponding with a decline in enteroviral infections. Since 1991, myocarditis was present in less than 5% of patients biopsied each year, correlating with reduced enterovirus cases reported by the CDC.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to slow down neurodegeneration in an animal model, offering hope for treatments of autosomal dominant disorders. The approach involves using ribozymes to destroy faulty messenger RNA, potentially treating conditions like Huntington's disease and ALS.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine discovered that a virus related to mononucleosis and Kaposi's sarcoma can injure arteries in mice, suggesting a possible link between viruses and vascular diseases. The study found lesions resembling early stages of human vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis.
A study of college-age women found a high incidence of HPV infection, with prevalence ranging from 20-46% in different countries. Regular Pap smears are crucial for early detection and prevention of cervical cancer.
Researchers discovered a strain of hepatitis E virus in pigs that is similar to the human strain, but not causative of disease. The finding may contribute to the development of a vaccine and improve our understanding of the virus's transmission and prevalence.
Researchers at UNL have discovered a glycoprotein complex, p67, that correlates directly with cells' resistance to viruses. The team found that encouraging the growth of p67 could be a useful means of preventing viruses from taking over cells' reproductive machinery.
Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE) found in white-tailed deer and black bears, with 56% of Midwestern patients hospitalized due to severe symptoms. Early detection is crucial for treatment with a special antibiotic, which can cure the infection in 24-48 hours.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found a connection between viral infections and immune system B cells producing immunoglobin E, a protein that causes allergic reactions. The study suggests that vaccinating children against mild childhood viral diseases could reduce the incidence of asthma and allergies.
Researchers identified a carbohydrate structure that Chlamydia trachomatis uses to infect cells, leading to the development of a potential preventive agent. The study found that similar carbohydrates can prevent chlamydial infection, paving the way for the creation of anti-adhesive therapies.
A new, potentially serious disease known as White Pox has been discovered on coral reefs near Key West, Florida, causing extensive damage and killing up to 80% of elkhorn coral. The cause of the disease remains unknown, but researchers are studying it to understand its origins and potential impact on the marine ecosystem.