Disease Control

New marker aids diagnosis for aggressive prostate cancer

The handbook that can prepare countries for the next pandemic

A new handbook produced jointly by Chalmers University of Technology and the University of Gothenburg aims to improve decision-making and preparedness for future pandemics. The handbook provides practical guidance on how mathematical models can be used to inform decision-making, particularly in times of crisis.

Influenza frequently missed in winter deaths, new study finds

A new study found that influenza was detected in 11% of winter deaths, but only 17% had a confirmed diagnosis before death. The study highlights the gap between detection and official mortality records, suggesting influenza may play a larger role in winter mortality than routine surveillance captures.

Obesity control’s underestimated potential for cancer prevention

A recent study published in JAMA Oncology suggests that obesity control is a potentially effective strategy for cancer prevention. The research reveals that successful weight management can lead to a significant reduction in the risk of various cancers, making it an underutilized approach in cancer prevention.

FAU discovery of tiny cell ‘tunnels’ finds new path to slow Huntington’s disease

Huntington's disease is caused by a toxic protein that builds in brain cells and spreads to other cells through tunneling nanotubes. Disrupting this pathway reduces the spread of the disease-causing protein, suggesting a new target for therapy.

New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors

A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...

The cost of survival: Women more likely to survive cancer but suffer more severe side effects

A recent study found that women have a 21% lower risk of death compared to men, but a 12% higher risk of severe side effects from cancer treatment. The research, conducted in partnership with international collaborators, analyzed data from over 20,000 cancer patients and identified sex-based differences in survival and treatment toxicity.

Special issue elevates disease ecology in marine management

A new special edition of the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B provides a comprehensive collection of peer-reviewed studies on disease management in marine wildlife. The issue examines emerging pathogens, methodological advances, climate change, and ecosystem-based management.

A therapeutic target that would curb the spread of coronaviruses has been identified

Coronaviruses modify cellular machinery to produce viral proteins and spread rapidly. A study found that infection causes stress-induced changes in tRNAs, allowing coronaviruses to speed up protein production without generating new machinery. The modification of tRNAs is a promising candidate for developing broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.

You don't need to be very altruistic to stop an epidemic

Researchers used mathematical modeling to find that even people with minimal concern for others would choose to self-isolate when sick, suppressing diseases in the long-term. The study suggests that only a small amount of altruism is needed to achieve indefinite suppression as an alternative to herd immunity.

Debilitating virus can spread in cool weather, increasing health risk in Europe

A recent study found that chikungunya can spread in temperatures as low as 13 degrees Celsius, posing a greater health threat in Europe than previously thought. The Asian tiger mosquito is expanding northwards through the continent, and warming temperatures may lead to local outbreaks in the UK.

Costs pose hurdle for promising new hepatitis C lab test

A new rapid test for hepatitis C could identify more patients who can be cured if insurers increase reimbursement to cover the test's high cost. The test's point-of-care feature makes it ideal for early screening and treatment in clinics and emergency rooms.

A testing paradox for sexually transmitted infections

A new modeling study suggests that regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can successfully reduce their spread, even if individuals on PrEP engage in riskier behavior. The paradoxical findings highlight the importance of careful surveillance data interpretation when evaluating public health interventions.

Beat the bugs, enjoy the beats

A comprehensive review of 19 multi-day events found that nearly 70% of reported emergencies were infectious disease outbreaks, with influenza, measles, and meningococcal disease being the top causes. Foodborne illnesses accounted for over one in five incidents, often linked to poor food handling practices.

Mathematicians model the menace of mosquitoes

Researchers have created a model that can handle complex mosquito behavior and its impact on human diseases. The study reveals surprising findings, such as it may be better to let a mosquito bite you in terms of overall transmission.

Myths about rapid spread of the Black Death influenced by single “literary tale”, experts show

Researchers find a fourteenth-century Arabic poem misinterpreted as factual account of plague's movement, influenced myths of its quick spread across Asia. The study highlights the importance of maqāmas in understanding how communities coped with catastrophic events like the Black Death.

US funding cuts could result in nearly 9 million child tuberculosis cases, 1.5 million child deaths

A new study projects that US funding cuts will result in a catastrophic effect on pediatric TB, with children in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia experiencing a significant spike in preventable cases and deaths over the next decade. The loss of US bilateral health aid is projected to result in an additional 2.5 million pediatric T...

How multiple sclerosis harms a brain long before symptoms appear

Scientists analyzed thousands of proteins in blood samples to understand when multiple sclerosis attacks the myelin sheath and nerve fibers. Researchers identified a protein called IL-3, which plays a key role in this early phase of damage.

“We need to prepare for a growing number of West Nile virus infections,” experts warn

Climate change is allowing disease-carrying insects to spread into new areas, resulting in a growing number of West Nile virus infection cases in Europe. The virus can attack the nervous system and brain, causing symptoms like fever, headache, and malaise, with severe consequences for vulnerable individuals.

Oral bacteria linked to Parkinson’s via the gut-brain axis

Research links oral bacteria to Parkinson's disease via the gut-brain axis, finding Streptococcus mutans produces metabolite imidazole propionate that contributes to disease progression. Targeting the oral-gut microbiome may offer a new therapeutic approach for Parkinson's treatment.

Disease experts team up with Florida Museum of Natural History to create a forecast for West Nile virus

Researchers have created a statistical model using 20 years' worth of sentinel chicken data to predict elevated West Nile virus activity up to six months in advance. This breakthrough could lead to proactive preventative measures and improve disease outbreak response.

Vitamin K analogues may help transform the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases

Researchers synthesized hybrid vitamin K analogues with enhanced neuroactive properties, exhibiting threefold greater potency in inducing neural progenitor cell differentiation compared to natural vitamin K. The compounds preserved vitamin K and retinoic acid's biological activity via the SXR and RAR receptors.

Cracks beneath the surface: new consensus sheds light on cemental tear

Researchers developed standardized guidelines to diagnose and treat cemental tears, reducing misdiagnosis and improving patient outcomes. The consensus identifies key risk factors, diagnostic strategies, and treatment principles, empowering clinicians to recognize and manage this hidden threat more effectively.

Bee-sting inspired microneedles from Chung-Ang University could revolutionize drug delivery

Researchers developed wearable microneedle patches that improve drug absorption while reducing pain in long-term delivery. The new technology, inspired by bee stings, enables continuous drug release and anchors securely into the skin.

What traits matter when predicting disease emergence in new populations?

Researchers at Penn State have identified certain characteristics that can help predict whether a virus will persist in a new population. Infection prevalence and viral shedding were found to be significant predictors of long-term viral persistence. The study used a worm model system to examine disease transmission and emergence at a p...

Bentham Science releases groundbreaking reference on organoid technology for next-generation biomedical research

The new book explores organoid bioengineering, using pluripotent and adult stem cells to create models for various organs. It discusses breakthroughs in personalized cancer care and large-scale production protocols supported by advanced tools like 3D printing and genome editing.

Estimated burden of influenza and direct and indirect benefits of influenza vaccination

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.

Openly available geodata for high-resolution maps for targeted mosquito control

Researchers at Heidelberg University developed high-resolution environmental suitability maps to identify areas conducive to breeding, leveraging satellite imagery and climate data. The maps help guide targeted interventions in mosquito-endemic urban areas.

Smithsonian research reveals that probiotics slow spread of deadly disease decimating Caribbean reefs

Researchers have discovered that a bacterial probiotic helps slow the spread of stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) in already infected wild corals in Florida. Applying the probiotic treatment across entire coral colonies helped prevent tissue loss, providing a more lasting protection than traditional antibiotics.

Projected outcomes of removing fluoride from U.S. public water systems

Cessation of public water fluoridation would lead to higher rates of tooth decay and increased healthcare costs in the US. The model suggests that current safe levels of fluoride have substantial ongoing benefits.

Patient-delivered continuous care for weight loss maintenance

This novel treatment approach yields better weight loss maintenance and cardiovascular risk outcomes compared to standard-of-care treatment. Patient-delivered lifestyle intervention combined with peer support significantly improves weight loss and reduces cardiovascular risk.

AACR: New CAR T cell therapy benefits patients with advanced thyroid cancers

AIC100 demonstrated encouraging responses and an acceptable safety profile in patients with two types of advanced thyroid cancer, including anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) and relapsed/refractory poorly differentiated thyroid cancer (PTDC). The therapy showed significant tumor shrinkage and disease control in 56% of patients.

α-synuclein PET imaging breakthrough illuminates path to earlier diagnosis of Parkinson's disease

Researchers developed promising α-synuclein PET tracers that can visualize protein aggregates in living patients, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment monitoring. Tracers like [18F]C05-05 and [18F]ACI-12589 showed significant results in distinguishing synucleinopathies from healthy controls.

Every dose counts: Safeguarding the success of vaccination in Europe

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) emphasizes the need for high immunization coverage to protect European populations from diseases like measles and polio. Vaccination remains a crucial tool in public health, with recent data showing a tenfold surge in reported measles cases in the EU/EEA.

Gene circuits enable more precise control of gene therapy

Researchers at MIT developed a control circuit that can precisely regulate gene expression levels, improving the efficacy and safety of gene therapy treatments. The 'COMMAND' circuit uses microRNA to suppress gene expression, allowing for tighter control over treatment outcomes.

Hospital-based outbreak detection system saves lives

A hospital-based outbreak detection system has been shown to prevent infections, save lives and cut costs. The Enhanced Detection System for Healthcare-Associated Transmission (EDS-HAT) uses genomic sequencing to analyze infectious disease samples from patients, identifying near-identical strains that flag potential outbreaks.

A hidden control center: How bacteria regulate their attack strategies

Researchers discovered that CsrA gathers in droplet-like structures inside cells to control bacterial gene activation. These compartments help bacteria adapt to environments and switch between harmless and virulent states.

UMass Amherst tick researchers identify new strain of rickettsia bacteria that causes spotted fever infections in humans

Researchers at UMass Amherst's New England Center of Excellence in Vector-borne Diseases have identified a new strain of Rickettsia bacteria that causes spotted fever infections in humans. The discovery in Maine suggests rabbit ticks could be a zoonotic vector for serious infections, contradicting the usual dog tick vector.

Study: potential therapy for uncontrolled hypertension

Researchers identified a potential new treatment, lorundrostat, which reduced systolic blood pressure in individuals with uncontrolled or treatment-resistant hypertension. The study found a significant 15-point reduction in systolic blood pressure compared to placebo.

Breakthrough approach for diagnosing TB could significantly improve detection

A new strategy for tuberculosis (TB) screening could significantly improve detection, allowing for simultaneous screening of both active and dormant infections. This approach has the potential to save lives, curb infection rates, and rewrite the story of TB's continued spread.

Amazon research tackles £50 million parasite devastating fish farmers around the world

A mysterious parasite is devastating fish farms globally, causing £50 million in losses annually. Researchers have discovered a new gene regulation process that could lead to the development of gene-based vaccines.

Study reveals gaps in flu treatment for high-risk adults

A multi-state study found that only half of high-risk adults with flu received antiviral treatment, highlighting a critical need for timely care. The gap in treatment increases the risk of severe flu complications, particularly among older adults and those with underlying conditions.

How a potential HIV cure may affect HIV transmission

A mathematical modeling study suggests that sustained HIV remission or eradication could consistently reduce new HIV infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Netherlands. However, transient remission with a risk of rebound may increase new infections if not closely monitored.

COVID vaccine protected kids from long COVID

New research found that COVID vaccines significantly reduced the risk of long COVID in children and adolescents. Vaccination was about 95% effective in preventing long COVID in some cohorts, primarily due to its ability to prevent initial infection.

Focus on sanitation and clean water may improve control of endemic cholera

A new study models cholera transmission after interventions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting the importance of environmental reservoirs in maintaining endemic diseases. The research suggests that vaccination may have a smaller impact on preventing transmission compared to water, sanitation, and hygiene improvements.

Some patients may experience durable disease control even after discontinuing immune checkpoint inhibitors for side effects

A subset of patients with non-small cell lung cancer who discontinued immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy due to immune-related adverse events continued to experience long-term disease control. The median post-discontinuation progression-free survival was 12.7 months, and the median post-discontinuation overall survival was 43.7 months.

Low-income patients with diabetes are more likely to experience insurance instability

A study of over 300,000 adults found that those with diabetes are 25% more likely to lose their health insurance. Insurance instability is particularly concerning for those with complex needs, as many struggle to regain coverage after losing Medicaid or private insurance.

Global patterns of cervical cancer incidence and mortality: updated statistics and an overview of temporal trends from 2003 to 2017

Cervical cancer cases worldwide reached 622,301 in 2022, with significant variations in age-standardized incidence rates across regions. Targeted prevention programs, especially HPV vaccination in low-income countries, are essential to reduce the global health burden.

Pediatric investigation review explains the future of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and control of myopia

Researchers highlight the potential of AI in diagnosing and treating myopia, detecting risk factors and predicting outcomes. However, challenges such as data quality and patient privacy must be addressed to improve widespread clinical application.

Patients with multi drug-resistant cholera in Europe linked to exposure to contaminated holy water from Ethiopia

Recent cases of multi-drug resistant cholera in the UK and Germany are linked to exposure to contaminated holy water from Ethiopia. The study found a connection between pilgrims consuming or bathing in the holy well and the spread of the disease.

Investing in COVID-19 vaccination more than paid off for U.S., study finds

A new study reveals that the US national vaccine strategy saved more money than it spent on testing, buying and delivering COVID-19 vaccines after just one year. The analysis found that the vaccines reduced serious illness and deaths, resulting in significant cost savings.

Stroke deaths and their racial disparities increased over last 20 years

A recent study found that ischemic stroke mortality rates have increased in the US over the past two decades, particularly among racial minorities and rural residents. The majority of these deaths now occur at home, rather than in hospitals or medical facilities.

Pinning down the process of West Nile virus transmission

A project aims to understand how temperature, light pollution, and bird abundance affect West Nile virus transmission in mosquitoes. The goal is to advise health departments on the best time to kill bugs and limit transmission.

Break the sedentary cycle: National Walking Day can kickstart healthier routines

The American Heart Association invites communities nationwide to walk together on National Walking Day to break the cycle of sedentary behavior. Regular walking can improve both physical and mental well-being, even in small steps.

Many TB cases may have gone undetected in prisons in Europe and the Americas during COVID-19

A new study found that reported tuberculosis diagnoses among incarcerated people in Europe and the Americas plummeted by up to 100% during the pandemic, despite consistent incarceration rates. This reduction was distinct from general population trends, highlighting the need for improved healthcare systems within prisons.

Children of moms who smoked or were obese are more likely to become obese adults

A UK study found that children of obese mothers are more likely to become obese adults, suggesting that societal and early-life factors play a significant role in obesity. The study analyzed data from over 17,000 people born in the same week in 1958 and found that these early life factors persisted through adulthood.

Maternal deaths from cardiovascular causes on the rise in U.S.

The rate of maternal mortality related to cardiovascular causes has more than doubled between 1999 and 2022 in the US. Researchers attribute the increase to factors such as socioeconomic disadvantages, limited access to healthcare, and higher prevalence of risk factors.

Offering paid time off dramatically cuts odds of employees quitting their jobs

A study published in the International Journal of Manpower found that offering paid time off (PTO) significantly reduces the likelihood of employees quitting their jobs, with a greater reduction for men. PTO does not affect job satisfaction, which independently reduces turnover by 30-40%. Flexible scheduling also reduces turnover, but ...

Social networks may help combat global spread of diseases - study

Researchers discovered that exposure to similar behaviors within a person's social network is the most significant factor predicting individual prevention behaviors. Household-level interventions targeting entire families could result in more effective prevention strategies.

BGI Genomics' JV Genalive secures ￥950 million RMB genetic testing contract in Saudi Arabia

Genalive wins largest outsourced testing service contract in Saudi Arabia's history, covering 83 public hospitals and multiple genomics methodologies. The deal will enhance local precision medicine services with comprehensive solutions for whole genome sequencing, exome sequencing, and more.