Research on containing and managing disease. Covers critical-illness theory, zoonotic disease, immunotherapy trials, and historical epidemics.
Researchers found that patients with a GCK mutation had a low prevalence of microvascular and macrovascular complications, despite decades of isolated hyperglycemia. The study included 99 carriers of the mutation, 91 control relatives, and 83 individuals with young-onset type 2 diabetes.
A new study by University of Warwick scientists recommends targeting 'superspreader' dogs responsible for the majority of leishmaniasis transmission to humans. By testing parasite loads in infected dogs, this approach could be more cost-effective and result in fewer unnecessary dog killings.
The study highlights the ecological benefits of large carnivores, including controlling herbivores, mitigating global warming, and enhancing biodiversity. Without these species, ecosystems may collapse, leading to reduced plant diversity, biomass, and productivity, as well as increased greenhouse gas emissions.
The global prevalence of daily tobacco smoking declined by 25% for men and 42% for women between 1980 and 2012. Despite this progress, the number of smokers has increased due to population growth, with 967 million male smokers and 7% female smokers in 2012.
A study published in the American Journal of Infection Control found a significant decrease in MRSA infections in Veterans Affairs long-term care facilities over a 42-month period. The MRSA Prevention Initiative, which included screening, hand hygiene, and institutional culture change, led to a 36% overall decline in MRSA infections.
A new study found that nearly one in four healthcare workers' hands were contaminated with C. difficile spores after routine care of patients infected with the bacteria. Effective hand hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of this highly contagious bacteria.
A new study found that preoperative antibiotic therapy administered within two hours of cardiac surgery decreased the risk of developing surgical site infections (SSIs) significantly. SSIs were less common among patients who received prophylaxis during the optimized period than those who received it at a different time.
Sheep producers may benefit from genetic selection as an alternative strategy to control helminth infections, which can reduce economic losses and minimize the use of chemicals. This approach aims to breed sheep with natural resistance traits, improving overall health and reducing production costs.
ORNL researchers used supercomputers to simulate a molecular switch in a receptor that controls cell behavior, revealing its role in signaling processes. The discovery has significant implications for understanding cellular functions and developing new treatments for diseases.
Researchers at UTMB have discovered a way to block disease pathways that could defeat devastating human infections. A new candidate drug inhibiting Epac has been shown to protect normal mice from fatal rickettsial infection and may also be effective against some viral infections.
Researchers at the University of Washington have discovered a second code hidden within DNA that instructs cells on how genes are controlled. This finding has significant implications for interpreting genome data and diagnosing diseases.
The UK has released updated evidence-based guidelines for preventing healthcare-associated infections in NHS hospitals. The epic3 guidelines provide the best available scientific evidence for preventing healthcare infections, focusing on standard principles for infection prevention and control.
Scientists at UC Riverside identified a key target for disrupting mosquito host-seeking behavior, which could aid in controlling disease transmission. They discovered compounds that can block the mosquito's CO2 and skin-odorant receptors, reducing attractiveness and creating an affordable alternative to traditional CO2-based mosquito t...
Researchers found that certain mosquito nerve cells detect human odors and CO2, attracting mosquitoes to humans. They identified two compounds, ethyl pyruvate and cyclopentanone, that can neutralize or activate these detectors, potentially developing new control approaches for mosquito-borne diseases.
Scientists at Sanford-Burnham have identified the B and T Lymphocyte Attenuator (BTLA) inhibitory receptor as a key factor in limiting inflammatory responses, particularly in the skin. The study provides clarity on how T cells get fired up to protect against pathogens, and then cool down to restore immune homeostasis.
Researchers developed a drug regimen that eradicated CRE colonization in 44% of patients, significantly reducing mortality rates. The treatment was found to be safe and effective for eliminating the carrier state, which can reduce patient-to-patient transmission.
Researchers found significant differences in DNA chemical modifications on genes related to kidney fibrosis, suggesting an early role in development. The study provides new insights into the molecular roots of chronic kidney disease and potential targets for new drugs.
The updated HIV care guidelines recommend focusing on preventive care, including screening for high cholesterol, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Primary care physicians should also be familiar with HIV care recommendations to provide comprehensive care to patients with HIV infection.
Researchers found that disrupting the circadian clock in mice increases susceptibility to inflammatory disease by controlling the development of key immune cells called interleukin-17-producing CD4+ T helper cells. This discovery could lead to new ways to regulate the immune response and prevent autoimmune diseases.
Visceral Leishmaniasis is a severe disease causing spleen, liver, and bone marrow damage if untreated. In Brazil's largest cities, like Belo Horizonte, VL cases are on the rise, with high fatality rates despite available diagnosis and treatment.
A Rhode Island Hospital study observed staff on 161,526 occasions and found that hand hygiene compliance improved from 60% to 89% between July 2008 and December 2012. The investigators noted increased compliance when healthcare workers were leaving patient rooms or caring for patients during the evening shift.
After implementing a national initiative to reduce MRSA rates, cases have continued to decline in VA medical centers. The initiative resulted in significant decreases in both transmission and healthcare-associated infection rates, with notable declines in non-ICU settings.
A survey of 71 hospitals found that most had policies in place for device use, surgery, and hand hygiene, but fewer had policies on antimicrobial stewardship. Practices to reduce device risk varied between hospitals, with some using bladder scanners and others lacking proper training on urinary catheter placement.
A study found that pediatricians can successfully promote safe driving agreements between teens and parents using a web-based Checkpoints TM program. Nearly 4,000 parents were reached, resulting in over 2,100 website visits and an average of 3.5 minutes spent on the site.
Researchers found that excess protein EZH2 contributes to neuromuscular problems in A-T disease. By reducing EZH2, mice with A-T disease exhibited improved muscle control and coordination.
Patients with moderate to severe psoriasis are at increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease, particularly those with severe disease. Closer monitoring and careful consideration of medications are recommended for this patient population.
Research reveals super-enhancers play crucial roles in both healthy cell regulation and disease, with mutations associated with diseases occurring in these regions. The discovery may lead to the development of personalized medicine approaches for cancer treatment and diagnosis.
A new study finds that most popular mobile weight loss apps fail to implement effective behavioral strategies, leaving users with limited support. Despite this, top-rated apps like MyNetDiary PRO and MyNetDiary include useful features such as barcode scanners and social networks.
Researchers from the University of Waterloo suggest that Facebook and Twitter can provide valuable insights into controlling infectious diseases. By analyzing social media data, they aim to develop predictive models that understand how people respond to biological contagions.
A comprehensive analysis of hormone therapy trials did not support its use for chronic disease prevention. The study found that menopausal hormone therapy may be suitable for managing symptoms in some women.
A study found that antimicrobial therapy was a significant risk factor for vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) in a Greek NICU. Adherence to infection control measures and antimicrobial stewardship policies are crucial to prevent VRE outbreaks.
Current estimates of rheumatic heart disease deaths globally are likely underestimates, with new studies underway to address data gaps and inform control strategies. The authors propose re-evaluating the burden of disease in two categories: symptomatic and asymptomatic disease.
A new research chair will focus on developing innovative strategies for preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease, including early detection tools and less toxic therapeutic molecules. The goal is to improve patient quality of life and alleviate symptoms rather than control the disease.
The new guidelines provide standardized guidance and educate staff and volunteers on the principles of infection prevention to reduce the risk of infection for children and families in pediatric residential settings. The guidelines include practices such as standard precautions, health screening, and mandatory vaccination practices.
A new study reveals that patients placed in Contact Precautions were twice as likely to report perceived problems with care compared to those without. The common infection control practice was found to create a negative perception of care, affecting patient satisfaction.
The study found a significant decrease in invasive MRSA infections nationwide from 80,461 in 2011 to estimated 30,800 in 2005. This represents a 27.7% decline for healthcare-associated community-onset infections and a 54.2% drop for hospital-onset infections.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that automated telephone calls increased controlled hypertension among patients, especially those with multiple chronic conditions. The program also showed benefits for female patients with higher incomes and improved health outcomes for both patients and healthcare systems.
Researchers found that replacing positive and negative needleless connectors with zero fluid displacement connectors reduced CLABSIs by 60% and 94%, respectively. This simple change saved an estimated 13 lives and over $3 million in healthcare costs.
A pay-for-performance program in EHR-enabled small practices improved cardiovascular care processes and intermediate outcomes, with higher changes for patients with diabetes or hypertension. The study suggests that these practices can respond to incentives and improve quality in the context of robust clinical management tools.
A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that federal, state, and local laws give only partial support to diabetes guidelines and evidence-based interventions. To address this, the authors suggest six specific actions to improve law's role in preventing and controlling diabetes.
A study by Jason M. Glanz and colleagues found that undervaccination with the DTaP vaccine increases the risk of pertussis in children aged 3-36 months. The research involved 72 cases of pertussis and 288 controls, showing that undervaccinated children were 18.56 times more likely to contract the disease than their vaccinated peers.
The World Heart Federation calls on countries worldwide to set a target year to reduce population smoking levels to 5% or below and implement measures in the international tobacco control treaty. Finland, New Zealand, and Scotland have announced target years of 2030, 2025, and 2034 respectively.
Researchers at LSU Health Sciences Center have developed a new technology, DREADD, to study behaviors and cellular function in fruit flies. The system allows for precise control of behavior and physiological processes, enabling scientists to model human diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
A study of 98,658 Chinese adults found nearly 12% had diabetes and 50% were at risk for prediabetes. The prevalence varied by age, sex, urban vs. rural residence, and economic development.
A study of nursing students in the UK found that 100% observed lapses in infection prevention and control practices during clinical placements. The most frequently observed events were hand hygiene violations, including failure to clean hands between patients and wearing nail polish or extensions.
A new study from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center shows that community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs can increase fresh fruit and vegetable access in under-resourced communities. The program provided participants with a weekly box of produce and educational sessions, resulting in increased consumption and satisfaction.
Life expectancy among women aged 50 years and older has increased significantly in developed countries over the last 20-30 years due to improved measures for reducing noncommunicable diseases. Despite this progress, the study highlights a growing gap in life expectancy between rich and poor countries.
A major clinical trial has shown that specialist nurse-led clinics can manage people with rheumatoid arthritis just as effectively as traditional doctor-led services. The study found significant improvements in disease activity, pain control, and patient satisfaction, while also reducing healthcare costs.
A new study has identified a fundamental biological process controlling the body's circadian clock, which could lead to breakthroughs in treating circadian clock-related disorders. The research found that removing a repressor protein improved brain clock function, enabling mice to adapt to time zone changes faster.
Kaiser Permanente Northern California's hypertension program, launched in 2001, nearly doubled the rate of blood pressure control among adult members with diagnosed hypertension. The program achieved sustained success through a comprehensive registry and frequent quality reports, leading to improved patient outcomes.
A large-scale hypertension program implemented in Northern California saw a near-doubling of blood pressure control rates between 2001 and 2009. The program's success was attributed to evidence-based guidelines and performance metrics, resulting in a higher rate of controlled blood pressure compared to national averages.
Researchers discovered a new genome-wide significant locus associated with infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, a serious gastrointestinal condition. The study also found an inverse relationship between low cholesterol levels at birth and increased risk of IHPS in infants.
A research letter reveals that indoor tanning is common among non-Hispanic white female high school students and adults ages 18 to 34 years, with significant age-related differences in prevalence. The study estimates that 29.3% of high school students and 24.9% of women in this age group engage in indoor tanning annually.
Researchers found that people with normal vision can adjust their eye movements within hours to cope with temporary vision loss. This discovery suggests a way to help individuals with age-related macular degeneration better manage visual impairment.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 studies reveals that hospitalized patients with PICCs are just as likely to develop bloodstream infections as those with other types of CVCs. The study highlights the need for adherence to proven prevention strategies in non-critical care settings.
Research by the University of Maryland found that timber rattlesnakes remove 2,500-4,500 ticks from Eastern forest sites annually, potentially reducing Lyme disease incidence. The study highlights the importance of conserving all species, including those often disliked.
The new guidelines recommend immediate use of a combination of three or more antiretroviral drugs after any occupational exposure to HIV, eliminating the previous recommendation to assess individual exposure risk. Exposed healthcare personnel should complete a full four-week regimen and undergo follow-up testing and monitoring.
The latest issue of the Journal of Integrated Pest Management features articles on controlling corn earworms, beetles, and other pest management issues. The Research Program for Deployed Warfighter Protection also highlights its accomplishments in developing new public health pesticides and repellent systems.
A new mobile platform will facilitate treatment of noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension in Kenya's western region. The technology provides secure and interoperable solutions to improve healthcare systems.
A study found that a moderate increase in vancomycin-resistant enterococci at one hospital led to a nearly 3% increase in VRE across the county. The Regional Healthcare Ecosystem Analyst model showed that hospitals in populated areas were more likely to spread the infection.