Research on containing and managing disease. Covers critical-illness theory, zoonotic disease, immunotherapy trials, and historical epidemics.
Researchers at West Virginia University are monitoring wastewater statewide for COVID-19 using an egg-shaped robot that collects samples every 20 minutes. The project aims to develop a testing network throughout the state, providing early indicators of changes in community-level spread of COVID-19.
A study found that transcranial stimulation can increase the benefits of aerobic exercise and improve gait in Parkinson's patients. The treatment uses a weak current delivered by electrodes placed over specific brain regions, activating the pre-frontal cortex.
Researchers explored optimizing disease control in prisons using rapid tests, identifying the optimal strategy to minimize costs and reduce infection. The study found that switching between full and no testing depends on various parameters, including contagion rates and test sensitivity.
Researchers investigated COVID-19 transmission dynamics among close contacts of index patients, finding timing of exposure impacts disease development. The study also found severity of the index case is associated with clinical presentation in close contacts who develop COVID-19.
A review of expert opinions reveals mixed results for the EU's COVID-19 response, with successes including coordinated vaccine procurement but shortcomings including inconsistent national responses. Experts emphasize the need for strengthened local surveillance systems and improved EU leadership to prevent similar crises.
A new epidemiology study reveals crucial trends in HIV/AIDS progression in China from 1990 to 2017. The study highlights the need for effective strategies to reduce mortality rates, especially among men, by intensifying targeted efforts including early identification and diagnosis, high-quality treatment services, and patient retention.
A physics model simulates hand-washing to estimate the time scales on which particles like viruses and bacteria are removed from hands. The study finds that vigorous movement for about 20 seconds is necessary to dislodge these particles, consistent with traditional guidelines.
A large-scale surveillance study in Madurai, India, found that comorbidities are a significant predictor of positive RT-PCR testing. The study also revealed an equal risk of asymptomatic infection among children, teenagers, and working-age adults, highlighting the importance of non-communicable disease control in COVID-19 containment s...
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that crowding in prisons significantly increases the risk of COVID-19 infections among inmates. The study suggests that policy changes are necessary to protect this vulnerable population and notes that even a small increase in crowding can pose a significant threat.
Immunocompromised individuals are at risk for prolonged viral shedding and the emergence of novel variants of concern. Healthcare providers must develop precise guidelines for monitoring and treating these patients.
A randomized clinical trial found that graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging changed the perception of US smokers, making them more likely to recognize the negative consequences of tobacco use and consider quitting. However, it did not significantly increase quit attempts or reduce nicotine addiction.
A new model developed by NYU Tandon School of Engineering researchers provides a data-centric approach to reopening towns and can serve as a blueprint for areas with low vaccine rates. The model shows that increasing access to social gatherings and public transportation at a certain rate supports a safe, rapid reopening.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that wearing masks and maintaining physical distance significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19. The study showed that both disposable paper medical masks and two-layer cloth masks were effective in blocking aerosol particles, with increased distance reducing particle counts to near baseline levels.
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that younger people with diabetes are significantly more concerned about COVID-19 risks and have a higher likelihood of reporting worries. Social support from family, friends, and healthcare teams plays a crucial role in managing these concerns.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia have developed a system that can fine-tune protein expression from gene therapy vectors, addressing the need for controlled dosing. The 'dimmer switch' uses alternative RNA splicing and an orally available small molecule to adjust levels of expression up or down as needed.
Researchers developed a non-invasive optical technique using spectroscopy to identify structural changes in the brain and diagnose Alzheimer's disease. The new technology has potential as a simple, completely non-invasive method of early detection and could also assess treatment effectiveness.
Research suggests that global warming could reduce the spread of dengue fever by making mosquitoes more sensitive to warmer temperatures. However, it may also limit the effectiveness of Wolbachia, a bacterium used to control viral infections in mosquitoes.
Researchers have discovered a new set of signals that control the production of goblet cells in the lung, which are often increased in lung diseases. The study found that altering these signals can increase or decrease goblet cell production, offering potential therapeutic avenues for treating conditions like asthma and COPD.
A study maps dengue fever hot spots to predict future outbreaks of Zika and chikungunya, revealing a 62% overlap between dengue and Zika hot spots. Targeted indoor residual spraying is shown to be effective in controlling Aedes-borne diseases.
A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that Ohio's Vax-a-Million lottery-based incentive system did not increase COVID-19 vaccinations. The study suggests that state-based lotteries are of limited value in increasing vaccine uptake, and recommends targeting underlying reasons for vaccine hesitancy instead.
A diary kept by infection preventionists during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic reveals the fear, lack of confidence, and shortages of personal protective equipment faced by frontline medical workers. The surveys also highlight the increased visibility and importance gained by IPs among medical teams.
A systematic review of international studies on COVID-19 management found that border controls, testing, self-isolation, and quarantine are key elements in stopping the spread of infection. The best strategies include comprehensive case finding, repeat testing, and use of smartphone apps for contact tracing and monitoring compliance.
Staff handwashing increased by 61% and PPE use rose to 21% after participating in the escape room. The interactive training environment engaged employees, leading to improved retention and patient safety outcomes.
A new study by Pendulum Therapeutics presents proprietary probiotic formulations that may improve glucose control in patients with Type 2 Diabetes. The research shows that Pendulum Glucose Control increases circulating butyrate and ursodeoxycholic acid, supporting the mechanism for improvement in glucose control.
Researchers found that male mosquitoes' ability to harmonically converge affects their offspring's immune response, with males investing more energy in mating effort than immunity. Female mosquitoes are better able to resist parasites and pathogens, but may lose immunity as they age.
A new study found that yellow fever mosquitoes have distinct genetic changes behind permethrin resistance, including mutations in VGSC and cuticle protein genes. These mutations enable the mosquitoes to survive exposure to the pesticide, posing a significant threat to disease control.
A study in Uganda reveals that school-aged children with asymptomatic malaria are a significant source of mosquito infections, driving the spread of the disease. Targeting these children for control interventions could help sustain malaria gains and prevent resurgences.
A new study finds that loss of nature will exacerbate racial and income inequality, with non-white people losing 224% air quality benefits, 118% crop pollination, and 111% disease control between 2020 and 2100.
A new study explores how changes in transportation networks impact disease spread, providing insights for future disease intervention strategies. The researchers developed techniques to quantify the effectiveness of different approaches in controlling disease outbreaks by analyzing network structure and hot spot placement.
A new study found that youth consumption accounted for $17.5 billion worth of alcohol sales in 2016, with three major companies responsible for nearly half of these sales. The research highlights a disconnect between the industry's advocacy for prevention and its own profits from underage drinking.
A nationwide study found that blood sugar control among US adults with diabetes declined significantly between 2007-2010 and 2015-2018. The proportion of adults achieving glycemic control dropped from 57.4% to 50.5%, while blood pressure control decreased, but cholesterol control levels remained stable.
Researchers at the University of Córdoba discovered that bovine milk contains antibodies that can neutralize SARS-CoV-2, potentially providing a natural source of immunity. The study found that consuming dairy preparations with high levels of these antibodies may help control infection and prevent disease.
Researchers create synthetic fly species with a genetic barrier to limit gene drive spread, offering a safe and reversible method of controlling populations. The technology has potential applications in disease elimination, crop protection, and pest management.
A recent study found that COVID-19 infection rates among US dentists are significantly lower than those of other healthcare professionals, with a cumulative infection rate of 2.6%. The monthly incidence rate varied between 0.2% and 1.1%, indicating effective infection control measures.
A recent study by a MU researcher found that tick-borne diseases are on the rise in the Midwest, particularly in humid climates. The study collected data on various tick species and their activity patterns, providing valuable insights for public health officials.
Experts argue that universal low-risk testing is unlikely to reduce transmission and encourage prioritizing the improvement of testing programmes for those with symptoms. They also emphasize the need for transparency, sound evaluation, and high-quality testing services in addressing the pandemic.
This survey study investigated changes in marijuana use in e-cigarettes among students from 2017 to 2020, highlighting significant racial and ethnic differences. The findings suggest that racial and ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected by marijuana use in e-cigarettes.
Researchers found that Parkinson's disease patients demonstrate stable preferences for abstract art but diminished perception of movement in paintings. The study suggests that the brain's motor system interprets non-representational visual cues as abstract representations of movement, influencing aesthetic experiences.
Researchers and healthcare professionals will discuss future innovations in patient care, effective practices for improving healthcare quality, and strategies for combating emerging pathogens. The event aims to identify gaps in infection control and expand prevention approaches across healthcare settings.
A large UK study found COVID-19 discharged patients had higher rates of organ damage and disease compared to similar individuals in the general population. The research suggests a substantial long-term burden of COVID-19-related illness on hospitals and broader healthcare systems.
A recent study found that adults with periodontitis, a severe gum infection, are more likely to have higher blood pressure compared to those with healthy gums. The researchers also discovered that active gum inflammation is associated with higher systolic blood pressure values.
A seroprevalence study of 9,542 residents in Wuhan found that 6.9% had COVID-19 antibodies, including 82% with asymptomatic infections. Neutralizing antibodies developed by 40%, remaining stable for at least 9 months.
A modelling study suggests that vaccination alone may not prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection in the UK, even with high vaccine uptake and gradual reopening. Gradual easing of measures and high vaccine protection can minimize future waves of infection.
An interdisciplinary team proposes an action model to promote psychosocial health by synergistically combining health promotion and prevention concepts. The model includes five elements: psychosocial health, health promotion, disease prevention, and their relationships.
A large UK-based study found that high blood pressure is poorly controlled in over half of those diagnosed with the condition, with older age, black ethnicity, and low earnings being key risk factors. Despite treatment, nearly two-thirds of patients are not receiving proper care.
A study published in Nature Communications found that climate change can directly impact malaria transmission in Africa, particularly in highland regions. The research analyzed data from Ethiopia and showed a strong correlation between regional temperatures and malaria cases.
A CDC compilation of scientific research found telephone call centers, or quitlines, to be a successful intervention for smoking termination. The study highlights the importance of call centers as an essential population-level tool in tobacco control, particularly among high-risk populations.
Researchers have identified chickpea varieties with natural resistance to Pythium ultimum, a soil-born water mold threatening the crop's production. These resistant varieties will be used to breed new kabuli chickpea varieties with improved disease resistance.
A MUSC researcher has been awarded a $9.9 million contract to test TB treatment interventions in areas with severe disease prevalence. The goal is to shorten treatment duration and improve patient adherence, particularly for individuals with latent TB infection.
A Yale-led research team created a new method to track how Aedes aegypti mosquitoes move through the environment, combining genetic and environmental data. The results suggest that these mosquitoes travel through a mix of natural and human-aided dispersal, making eco-friendly control methods more crucial than ever.
Researchers have identified tap water access as a strong predictor of dengue risk in urban environments. Poorly accessed colonies showed higher risks of exposure and recent infection compared to wealthier areas, highlighting the need for targeted mosquito control measures.
A three-model approach was used to trace the spread of PEDV and analyze control strategies. The models showed varying levels of accuracy in predicting outbreaks, with PoPS being the most accurate overall.
Researchers have developed a more sustainable approach to treating citrus canker, which reduces copper usage by up to 80%. The new technique involves using less water and copper, resulting in lower costs and environmental impact. By adopting this method, citrus growers can minimize the risk of developing copper-resistant strains.
Researchers found that nitisinone is toxic to tsetse flies but harmless to pollinator insects. The study suggests using the approved drug as an eco-friendly strategy to control trypanosomiasis transmission.
The CDC will discuss how COVID-19 has impacted Legionnaires' disease incidence and testing, as well as introduce new control tools to reduce the risk of contraction. The conference aims to provide building owners and managers with information and methods to ensure a safe environment for tenants and visitors.
A review of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports confirms cases of anaphylactic reactions after Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine administration. The study highlights the importance of monitoring vaccine recipients for potential allergic reactions.
Researchers estimated that more than half of SARS-CoV-2 transmission occurs among asymptomatic individuals, suggesting a significant role for these carriers in the spread of the virus. The study's findings have important implications for public health strategies and contact tracing efforts.
A new Texas A&M AgriLife Research project aims to enable temporary genetic changes in mosquitoes, which then remove themselves from the population. The goal is to test and fine-tune a self-deleting gene technology to control mosquito populations and prevent disease transmission.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has released four COVID-19 vaccination strategies for EU/EEA countries, developed using mathematical modeling to inform prioritization. The strategies prioritize groups at high risk of severe disease and death, highlighting the importance of vaccination of healthcare workers.
David P. Calfee will lead the journal with a strong vision for publishing top healthcare epidemiology research and collaborating with SHEA staff. The journal, ICHE, has improved visibility under previous editor-in-chief Suzanne Bradley's leadership and launched critical digital platforms.