Articles tagged with Parasitic Diseases
Researchers at WSU Vancouver found that hunter-gatherer cannabis users had significantly lower rates of intestinal worm infection compared to non-users. The study suggests that the Aka people may be unconsciously using cannabis as a form of 'medical marijuana' to ward off parasites.
A study found that 67% of male Aka foragers in the Congo Basin used cannabis, protecting against parasitic worm infections, which are a major health problem in developing world populations. The researchers also suggest that tobacco use may have similar protective effects.
A study found that physical contact during social grooming increases the risk of gastrointestinal parasites in brown spider monkeys. The researchers analyzed data from 12 individual monkeys and found a strong correlation between grooming interactions and parasite infections, particularly with roundworms Strongyloides and Trichostrongylus.
A study by Penn State researchers found that wolves in packs with at least five healthy members have a similar death rate to their companions when infected with mange. This suggests that social living can help individuals cope with various chronic conditions by providing supportive care and resources.
A new study uses machine learning to pinpoint rodent species effective disease reservoirs and identify geographic hotspots vulnerable to emerging diseases. The research provides a basis for targeted surveillance efforts, highlighting the importance of collaboration with experts on the ground.
A new study by Loyola researchers shows that giving non-toxic C. difficile spores orally can stop repeated bouts of the infection, which occurs in 25-30% of patients. The treatment reduces recurrence rates to as low as 5%, offering real hope for those debilitated by recurring bouts.
Rates of C. difficile infection were highest in the Northeast region and during the spring season over the last decade, according to a study published in the American Journal of Infection Control. The study found that adults and older adults followed overall trends, with pediatric CDI being highest in winter.
Researchers found that bumblebees infected with the Crithidia bombi parasite were more likely to consume nicotine-laced nectar, delaying parasite progression. However, consuming nicotine had negative effects, suppressing the appetite of infected bees and reducing healthy bee lifespan.
A team of scientists from the University of Manchester has identified a new protein called Mbd2 that plays a key role in controlling inflammation during worm infections and allergies. By understanding how this protein functions, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies for these conditions.
Researchers developed a lab-on-a-chip device that can diagnose Cryptosporidium infections in as little as 10 minutes, offering potential improvements in treatment outcomes for rural areas in China. The device is easy to use and has diagnostic capabilities comparable to current standards, with the potential to reduce costs and timeframe.
Research demonstrates dynamic nature of fecal microbiota in FMT donors and recipients, with healthy changes sustained for up to 21 weeks after transplant. The study's findings have implications for the regulation of treatment and could influence the use of fecal transplants for a range of diseases associated with microbial imbalance.
A study by University of Georgia ecologists found that supplemental feeding can affect the spread of infectious diseases in wildlife, with some pathogens increasing transmission and others reducing it. The study provides practical suggestions for wildlife disease management and a roadmap for future research.
A study published in American Journal of Infection Control found that patients with C. difficile infection are twice as likely to be readmitted to the hospital, with significantly longer hospital stays. Researchers recommend improving antibiotic stewardship and infection control measures to prevent CDI rates.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have discovered that resistant barley varieties accumulate beta-glucan in their cell walls, which may influence nutrient flow and natural defense strategies against cereal cyst nematode. This finding could lead to new targets for resistance strategies in barley and other cereal crops.
IU scientists have discovered a new way the parasite Toxoplasma gondii modifies brain cells, which may help explain changes in the behavior of mice and potentially influence human behavior. The findings suggest that Toxoplasma infection could alter human behavior, with some research suggesting an association with schizophrenia.
Researchers sequenced and analyzed the genome of a specific hookworm species to discover new information for treating parasitic infections. They identified unique protein families, such as ASPRs, that may block the host's immune response, paving the way for potential new treatments.
The University of Melbourne-led study cracks the genetic code of T. canis, revealing its molecular biology and providing valuable insights into combating deadly outbreaks. The findings will aid future research on other related parasites, improving global health outcomes.
A new study found that non-migratory monarchs in the southern US are five times more likely to be infected with parasites than migratory ones. Planting native milkweeds instead of tropical milkweed can help reduce disease problems in winter-breeding populations.
Scientists have discovered a link between ancient mollusk fossils and an increase in parasitic trematodes, a type of internal parasite affecting humans and other animals. The study, funded by various grants, suggests that current climate change may be creating conditions for a surge in these parasites.
A study of African buffalo found that de-worming drastically improves an animal's chances of surviving bovine tuberculosis. However, this treatment allows infected animals to continue spreading TB within the herd, leading to unexpected negative consequences for the population as a whole.
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 from Aarhus University have discovered how a parasite in sleeping sickness disease recognizes human haemoglobin, a crucial step towards developing targeted treatments. This knowledge can lead to the development of new medicines that effectively combat the disease.
A rarely seen tapeworm, Spirometra erinaceieuropaei, has been sequenced for the first time, revealing its genetic secrets. The parasite was detected in a UK resident's brain after traveling 5cm from one side to the other.
A new study suggests that approximately one-fifth of schizophrenia cases may be attributable to T. gondii infection, according to professor Gary Smith's epidemiological modeling. This finding implies that preventing infections with this parasite could prevent about one-fifth of all schizophrenia cases over a lifetime.
Researchers have made significant breakthroughs in developing vaccines and new drugs for parasitic worm infections, which affect over 300 million people worldwide. Paul Brindley, a GW University researcher, is adapting new technologies to combat these diseases, highlighting the need for urgent action.
A study found that oral administration of frozen encapsulated fecal material from unrelated donors resulted in a high resolution rate of 90% for recurrent C. diff infection patients. The treatment eliminated diarrhea in 70% of patients and improved self-reported health ratings.
A new study reveals that slime-producing molecules produced by seaweed aid in the transmission of diseases like Toxoplasma gondii from land animals to sea otters. The parasite can be embedded in particles bound together by these polymers, which are then ingested by marine snails and eventually otters.
The World Heart Federation's Global Cardiovascular Disease Taskforce urges the United Nations to support efforts to curb non-communicable diseases like heart disease and stroke. The task force estimates that cardiovascular disease will account for $7 trillion of the economic burden from 2011-2025.
Scientists investigated how piglet immune systems respond to Cystoisospora suis, finding gamma delta T cells and cytotoxic T-cells play key roles. The study also revealed the importance of maternal antibodies in preventing disease severity.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have developed an 'electronic nose' that can rapidly detect C. difficile infections by identifying unique chemical fingerprints. This technology holds promise for faster diagnoses and tailored treatment options.
Scientists have identified key regions of the Cwp84 enzyme that could be targeted by drugs to prevent Clostridium difficile colonization and toxin production. The research may lead to the development of a new type of anti-colonization inhibitor to treat C. difficile infection.
Research finds that parasitic nematodes use olfaction to locate hosts, with distinct odor profiles reflecting host specificity rather than relatedness. The study's findings suggest targeted traps or repellents could be developed to control nematode infections.
A GW researcher has received a grant to develop genetic tools to study parasitic nematode (PN) infections, which affect one-third of all deaths worldwide. The goal is to better understand the infective process and host immune response.
Researchers found that wild sheep with higher tolerance to nematode infection produced more offspring, while those with lower tolerance left fewer descendants. The study provides groundwork for boosting human and livestock resilience to infection.
African parasites undergo significant shape changes during their life cycle, enabling adaptation to varying environments. Researchers found that adjusting a key protein's expression can trigger these transformations, allowing the parasites to survive and reproduce for multiple generations.
A new C. difficile vaccine has been shown to be 100 percent effective in protecting animal models from the deadly intestinal disease caused by Clostridium difficile. The vaccine protects against bacterial toxins and could prevent deadly complications such as severe diarrhea and bowel perforation.
Researchers discovered that interactions with other infections later in life can trigger dormant herpes viruses to resurface and cause disease. This finding highlights the complex relationships between pathogens and the immune system, which could lead to new strategies for combating these infections.
A recent study discovered how the bloodsucking parasitic mite Varroa destructor transforms Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) into a major threat to UK honeybees. DWV is usually harmless, but when transmitted by Varroa, it amplifies a virulent form of the virus associated with disease.
Researchers have decoded the whipworm's genetic and biological information, which provides a solid basis for developing new interventions. The study has identified molecules used for tunnelling and how the immune system responds to infection.
Researchers found that ultraviolet environmental disinfection (UVD) significantly reduced healthcare-associated infections caused by multidrug-resistant organisms and Clostridium difficile. The study analyzed 52 months of hospital-acquired MDROs plus C. difficile before and during UVD use, resulting in a 20 percent decrease in superbugs.
Scientists detect Dirofilaria repens in mosquitoes in Austria, a parasite that attacks subcutaneous tissue of dogs and causes skin lumps. The parasite is also present in other European countries, and its spread into Austria is expected.
Researchers discovered that pigs from infected mothers suffer less from the infection than those from non-infected mothers. The study found that maternal antibodies in the sow's milk protect piglets from infections in the first few weeks of life, leading to fewer cases of severe diarrhoea and faster recovery.
The investigational vaccine generates an immune response against key toxins in volunteers and establishes a dosing regimen for Phase III trials, which could help prevent first-occurrence CDI and protect individuals from this potentially life-threatening infection.
Researchers found four genes in trypanosome parasites that make them sensitive or resistant to the human immune system. The study identified a previously unknown gene that codes for a transmembrane channel, which may be involved in the uptake of human defense factors by the parasite.
A GW researcher advocates for a sustainable approach to controlling soil-transmitted helminths (STH), proposing the use of biogas technology to provide sanitation, parasite control, and energy supply. This grassroots solution offers cost-effectiveness and community-driven development in underdeveloped areas.
Researchers have discovered 10 new parasite species in Australian cuttlefish, revealing complex life cycles and infection patterns. The parasites' ability to reinfect hosts independently suggests a high degree of specificity, making them potential biological tags for assessing population structures.
A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison identified a new species of tapeworm in Mahal, an orangutan that died at age 5 due to a rare infection. The tapeworm, belonging to the Versteria genus, was found to be in its larval stage and infected nearly every organ in Mahal's body.
A study has found that invading grey squirrels may pass a deadly virus to native red squirrels through their urine, parasites and faeces. The research also suggests the disease persists best in warm dry conditions and could be slowed by limiting contact between species.
Research on Tasmanian Devil Facial Tumour Disease reveals that human selection can accelerate the evolution of cancerous cells. The study found that tumours from devils subjected to disease suppression trials showed accelerated temporal evolution of tetraploidy, allowing them to adapt to changing environments.
Female Pacific salmon that mate with their chosen partner produce healthier babies than those with selected mates, according to research by the University of Waterloo. This allows for a more robust stock, reducing the use of antibiotics and vaccines, which benefits both producers and fish health.
Researchers have created a rapid, affordable diagnostic test for cryptosporidiosis using recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) technique. The test can detect the presence of even one parasite in a sample, with high accuracy rates, and requires minimal equipment.
Researchers at Arizona State University discovered a direct link between urbanization and increased parasitic infections in wild house finches. The study found that birds from more urbanized areas were heavier and more infected by internal parasites, which disrupt the animal's ability to get nutrients.
Researchers found that females who mated with preferred males produced more offspring and were better able to cope with infection from Salmonella compared to offspring sired by non-preferred males. The fitness benefits were due to tolerance to infection rather than immune resistance.
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh made a groundbreaking discovery that could help combat the spread of sleeping sickness. By understanding how parasites communicate with each other, researchers may be able to develop new drugs to disrupt these messages and limit the disease's transmission.
A study published in The Journal of Mammalogy found that female prairie dogs who mate with two or more males rear more offspring than those that mate with only one male. The research, led by John Hoogland, suggests that the benefits of polyandry outweigh the costs for most species of prairie dogs.
Researchers at McGill University Health Centre have identified a target molecule that can block Cryptosporidium parvum's ability to evade the immune system, providing a potential treatment for this deadly parasite. The discovery could lead to an effective treatment for cryptosporidiosis, which affects millions of people worldwide.
Researchers have found a modified version of a common human dietary supplement to be effective in curing lab animals infected with hookworms. The probiotic was found to be safe and potentially lethal to intestinal worms, offering new hope for treating the disease that affects 1.5 billion people globally.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine have created over 650 new compounds that restore or improve effectiveness against drug-resistant pathogens in animal models. The findings could have major impact in the struggle against antimicrobial resistance, which threatens public health globally.
A study by the University of Manchester team has identified a new pathway regulating immune responses in the gut that can protect against infection. This finding holds promise for developing a protective immune response during parasite infestations, potentially addressing a major public health issue.
Researchers discovered that the Baoulé breed of cattle has a natural tolerance to a deadly parasite, and developed a method to detect different types of trypanosomes. The study aims to preserve the genetic background of the Baoulé breed to develop more resilient cattle breeds.