Infections, Laboratories / 27.03.2025

Editor's note: Please remember there are other causes of a sore throat besides Strep bacteria, some of which may be serious including Mono (mononucleosis), Haemophilus, Whooping cough and others. Please consult your health care provider for specific medical advice. Information in this post is for background education only and not to be construed as specific medical advice. A sore throat can be annoying. But if it comes with fever and swollen glands, it might be strep throat. Rapid strep throat tests give you quick results. But those color changes on the test strip can be confusing. Many people don’t know what they mean. Understanding these results is essential to knowing whether you are suffering from a viral infection or a strep throat. This guide explains strep test colors, what they mean, and what to do next.

How a Strep Throat Test Works

There are two main types of tests: the rapid antigen test and the throat culture.
  • Rapid antigen tests work by detecting proteins (antigens) from the strep bacteria using a chemical reaction .
  • In the throat culture method, the sample is placed in a lab to grow bacteria if present.
Both tests are reliable, but the rapid antigen test is widely used because of its speed, especially in clinics and urgent care settings. (more…)
Infections / 26.03.2025

common-cold-versus-flu.jpg   The cold winter months are notorious for all kinds of viral and bacterial illnesses to spread, with   Influenza (flu) and the common cold the two most prevalent and contagious respiratory illnesses. Although they may share many of the same symptoms, they are caused by different viruses. The flu is caused by influenza viruses only while the common cold is caused by a number of different viruses. Despite their similarities, knowing the difference between the two is important for the right diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of the Common Cold vs. Flu

The common cold is predominantly caused by rhinoviruses, while viruses such as parainfluenza and seasonal coronaviruses can also be responsible. However, these strains of coronaviruses are not the same as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Rhinoviruses spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. They can also be contracted by touching an infected person (shaking hands, kissing) or contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes.  The flu is caused by influenza viruses, types A, B, C, with Influenza A and B the most common strains that are responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. Like colds, the flu spreads through respiratory droplets and surface contact, but it tends to be more severe and can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and worsening of chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease and diabetes.  (more…)
Infections, Legal-Malpractice, Nutrition / 18.03.2025

    Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a bacterium often found in humans and animals' intestines. Some strains can cause severe illness, while most are harmless. Contaminated food, water, and person-to-person contact are the most frequent sources of infection. In a thriving coastal city like San Diego, where fresh produce and seafood are widely consumed, outbreaks can pose a significant public health concern. Restaurants, grocery stores, and food suppliers must adhere to strict health regulations to prevent contamination. When an outbreak occurs, those affected may seek legal recourse. An award-winning San Diego E. coli lawyer helps victims navigate legal complexities, ensuring they receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and suffering. (more…)
Author Interviews, Infections / 12.03.2025

  human-pathogens.jpg   Have you ever pondered how invisible microbes can trigger illnesses around us? Did you know millions fall ill, even fatally, due to human pathogens each year? These unseen threats are ever - present, silently invading our bodies and causing diseases ranging from mild colds to severe ones like AIDS and tuberculosis. Accurate detection of these pathogens is crucial for our health protection.

What are Human Pathogens?

Human pathogens are disease - causing microbes and parasites. An infection occurs when pathogens invade tissues, multiply, and trigger a reaction from the host's tissues to the pathogens and their toxins. Mammalian hosts initially respond to infections with an innate response, often involving inflammation, followed by an adaptive response. These organisms colonize host tissues, prompting the host immune system to produce specific antibodies against them. (more…)
Author Interviews, Infections, NEJM, STD / 06.03.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Lenka Vodstrcil PhD Senior Research Fellow Deputy Head, Genital Microbiota and Mycoplasma Group President, Sexual Health Society of Victoria Associate Editor, Sexually Transmitted Infections School of Translational Medicine, FMNHS, Monash University Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, The Alfred Hospital Melbourne School of Population & Global Health, University of Melbourne Catriona Bradshaw MMBS(Hons), PhD, FAChSHM, FAHMS Professor (Research), Head of Research Translation and Mentorship and of The Genital Microbiota and Mycoplasma Group Melbourne School of Translational Medicine, Monash University and Alfred Hospital Principal Research Fellow at the Burnet Institute   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: One in three women globally have bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition that causes a malodourous discharge, and associated with serious gynaecologic and obstetric sequelae (including miscarriage and preterm birth) and increases the risk sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. Women with symptoms are treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics, however, over 50% of women experience BV recurrence within 3-6 months. The recurrence rate is even higher at 60-80% among women with an ongoing regular partner. Current practice is to simply retreat women experiencing BV recurrence with the same antibiotics, which leaves them (and clinicians) frustrated and distressed. We and others have accumulated a body of evidence to show that BV has the profile of an STI. BV-associated bacteria are detected in men in the distal urethra and on penile-skin, and couples share these organisms. However, to date, has not been recommended for BV as it is for other STIs. This is largely because men do not usually have any symptoms, and past partner-treatment trials in the 1980s and 1990s, which only used oral antibiotics for men, failed to prevent BV recurrence, which was taken as conclusive evidence against sexual transmission. Reviews of these trials have since identified their limitations. Given the evidence of male carriage of BV-associated bacteria at two genital sites, we hypothesised that both sites needed to be targeted with antimicrobial therapy to prevent re-infection post-treatment. The aim of our study was to assess if male partner-treatment concurrently with female treatment using a combination of oral and topical antibiotics for the first time, would decrease BV recurrence over 12 weeks compared to the current standard practice of treating women only. (more…)
Antibiotic Resistance, Author Interviews, Infections / 18.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Jennifer Machado Soares Affiliation: University of São Paulo and Texas A&M University Institute of Physics of São Carlos, University of São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil. MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Antibiotic treatments are becoming less effective due to the increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Alternative treatments such as Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) have emerged and can act as an adjuvant to traditional antibiotic therapy. aPDT utilizes a photosensitizer activated by light to generate reactive oxygen species that can inactivate pathogens. (more…)
Infections, Ophthalmology / 15.02.2025

Eye health is an essential part of our overall well-being, yet many of us often overlook the delicate balance required to keep our eyes clear of infections and irritations. Styes and other eye infections can be both uncomfortable and disruptive, affecting our daily lives.  In this article, we’ll explore what styes are, the range of eye infections that can occur, and provide actionable advice on treatment and prevention strategies. With the right knowledge and habits, you can keep your eyes healthy and reduce the likelihood of these common issues.

Understanding Styes

Styes are one of the most frequent eye conditions encountered by people of all ages. These painful, red bumps on the eyelid are typically caused by a bacterial infection in the oil glands or hair follicles of the eyelid.

What is a Stye?

A stye, or hordeolum, often appears as a swollen, pus-filled bump near the edge of the eyelid. They are usually localized and can cause significant discomfort, especially if the affected area is touched or rubbed frequently. Although styes generally resolve on their own, their presence can be a signal that the eye’s natural defense mechanisms are under stress. (more…)
Author Interviews, Infections / 05.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Vishnu Chaturvedi, Ph.D., HCLD Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology New York Medical College Department of Pathology, Westchester Medical Center Valhalla, New York, MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? How does Candida auris differ from Candida albicans, ie in clinical presentation or treatment?    
  1. Candida aurisis a newly discovered yeast that is considered a global health threat by the CDC and WHO. The sudden emergence and rapid spread of this multidrug-resistant pathogen is being explained by several published hypotheses. These include global warming, salt water tolerance, or agriculture use of fungicides as plausible causes. In the US, the NY-NJ metropolitan area was the first to suffer from drug-resistant Candia auris clade I genotype. None of the earlier hypotheses could explain the appearance in NY-NJ. Here, we set out to answer two related questions: “why NY-NJ?” and “why clade I?”
  2. Candida albicansis a well-known commensal yeast that frequents human mucosal surfaces in the mouth, vagina, etc. In contrast, Candida auris is a newly discovered yeast that colonizes the skin of hospitalized patients and long-term care residents. A small subset of those colonized develop Candida auris bloodstream and deep tissue infections.
  3. Candida auris differs from  albicans in its ability to cause healthcare-associated infection outbreaks. Candida auris is also prone to rapid acquisition of the resistance of multiple antifungal drugs. Finally, C. auris bloodstream infections cause high mortality.
(more…)
Infections, Vaccine Studies / 14.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Professor Ooi Eng Eong Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme Duke-NUS Medical School and Shirin Kalimuddin Assistant Professor  and Senior Consultant Department of Infectious Diseases Singapore General Hospital and a faculty member of the Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme at Duke-NUS Medical School   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The recent pandemic taught us the importance of T cells to protect against COVID-19, especially severe disease. Indeed, where SARS-CoV-2 antibody titres have been too low to neutralise new variants of concern, there is now sizeable evidence that T cells can serve as the correlate of protection against symptomatic infection. However, most working on developing or applying vaccines to prevent diseases such as dengue, continue to focus on measuring antibodies. The goal of this study was thus to determine the extent to which T cells, in the absence of neutralising antibodies, can control infection and hence disease. We thus took advantage of two other viruses that are genetically related to dengue virus, with licensed vaccines that allow us to probe the effectiveness of T cells in controlling infection. The two vaccines are the live attenuated yellow fever vaccine and the Japanese encephalitis/yellow fever chimeric vaccine. The latter vaccine was constructed using the yellow fever vaccine as the genetic backbone but bearing the genes that encode the Japanese encephalitis viral membrane and envelope proteins. As neutralising antibodies target the envelope protein, vaccination with one vaccine would produce antibodies that would not neutralise the second vaccine. However, the T cell response, which mostly target the other proteins that remain common in both vaccine strains, would be identical.  (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Herpes Viruses / 08.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Or Shemesh PhD The Harvey M. Krueger Family Center for Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology School of Pharmacy - Institute for Drug Research The Hebrew University of Jerusalem MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study investigated the connection between herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathologies. We explored how HSV-1 proteins are present in the brains of individuals with AD and examined their interactions with tau, a key protein in AD pathology. MedicalResearch.com: What are the main findings? Response:  The main finding is that tau, traditionally seen as detrimental, might initially act as a protective response to HSV-1 by reducing neuronal death through an antiviral innate immunity pathway called cGAS-STING . Over time, this (initially beneficial) antiviral response of tau can manifest as the well established tau toxicity in Alzheimer's disease. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Infections / 19.12.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Benjamin Readhead PhD Research Associate Professor Banner Neurodegenerative Disease Research Center Biodesign Institute Arizona State University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study describes a surprising link between an intestinal infection with a common virus, human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), and the development of Alzheimer’s in a subset of people with the disease. In a study published earlier this year in the journal Nature Communications, we found that research participants with Alzheimer’s disease were more likely than those without it to harbor a particular immune cell type (“CD83(+) microglia”) in their brains. While trying to uncover what might be driving the presence of these CD83(+) microglia, we discovered an antibody (IgG4) in the intestine of these same subjects that were suggestive of the possibility that some kind of infection might contribute to this form of the disease. (more…)
Infections, Urology / 02.12.2024

Ureteritis, an inflammation of the ureters, can be a painful and disruptive condition. Whether you’re experiencing discomfort or searching for ways to manage the symptoms effectively, understanding your treatment options is crucial. With expert care, you can explore personalised solutions to regain your health and comfort.

Understanding Ureteritis and Its Causes

Ureteritis typically occurs due to infections, kidney stones, or conditions like urinary tract obstructions. Symptoms such as lower back pain, frequent urination, or blood in the urine can signal a need for medical attention. While the condition might feel overwhelming, there are effective treatments designed to target both the symptoms and the root cause. (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Mental Health Research, Pulmonary Disease / 30.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sean B. Fain, Ph.D. Professor and Vice Chair for Research Department of Radiology Affiliate Appointments BME and ECE University of Iowa Iowa City, IA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: This study uses MRI to investigate connections between lung and brain function. We employ an advanced MRI technique that uses hyperpolarized xenon gas as a contrast agent. This approach allows us to image which parts of the lung are effectively inhaling xenon gas and which parts are not (i.e. ventilation). Additionally, xenon provides insights into lung gas exchange (i.e. oxygen transfer into and out of the blood), as it freely diffuses into alveolar tissue and binds to red blood cells. Using this technology, we hypothesized that the severity of lung injury in individuals with Long COVID would correlate with the degree of cognitive dysfunction and brain imaging. (more…)
Author Interviews, Lyme / 08.11.2024

    Own a dog? Then your vet must have shared a thing or two about the risks of ticks and even warned you about Lyme disease.  But is your furry friend only at risk of this bacterial infection? You’re wrong if you think so. Humans can also get Lyme disease if a black-legged tick carrying the borrelia bacteria bites them. Just recently, the comedian and actress Miranda Hart opened up about how she struggled with chronic fatigue syndrome after she was diagnosed with Lyme disease.  Many other famous people say they have been struck by this tick-borne bacterial infection. Those include Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Yolanda Hadid and her daughter, model Bella Hadid, comic Amy Schumer, actor Ben Stiller, and singer Justin Bieber.  As high-profile names share their struggles, awareness of Lyme is spreading fast. But so are the myths. So, let’s separate the facts from the fiction surrounding this disease.

Myth #1: Lyme Disease Is Only a Problem in the Northeast

The Northeast does see a lot of Lyme disease cases, and that is mainly because it has a high population of black-legged ticks. But it is not confined to New England.   Lyme-carrying ticks can be found across much of the United States, especially in the upper Midwest and along the West Coast. In 2022, the largest number of Lyme disease cases were reported in the Middle Atlantic region—New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.  There has also been a rapid surge in the number of cases in the northern New England states of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, reports Mount Sinai.  So, why the misconception? Part of it comes down to awareness—doctors in the Northeast are more used to spotting it, which can lead to better diagnosis rates. Meanwhile, in other areas, this bacterial infection might be misdiagnosed or underreported, which is why it flies under the radar.  (more…)
Author Interviews, Neurology, Sexual Health, STD / 06.11.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sagar S. Patel, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509 MedicalResearch.com: What was the background for this research? Response: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by a gram-negative bacterium called Treponema pallidum. This infection promotes the cell death of microglia and can cause a variety of symptoms. It is commonly observed in developing countries such as sub-Saharan Africa. Neurosyphilis is a complication of syphilis that affects the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS undergoes multiple stages of deterioration and can include personality changes and hearing abnormalities. Diagnosing neurosyphilis is challenging because its symptoms mimic other neurodegenerative diseases. Diagnosis relies on clinical studies, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and neuroimaging techniques. (more…)
Infections / 28.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Asaf Levy Senior Lecturer, Assistant Professor Plant Pathology and Microbiology The Robert H Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment Hebrew University of Jerusalem MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Bacteria encode many compounds used to target neighboring microbes or cause disease in hosts, including humans. Classic antibiotics (small molecules) are one well-studied group of antimicrobials encoded by bacteria. A less-studied group consists of short protein toxins. These proteins are produced by bacteria and injected into target cells to kill them. In this study, we focused on a group of protein toxins called polymorphic toxins, which carry a short toxin domain at their end, which we termed “PTs” (an acronym for polymorphic toxins) and are roughly 100 amino acid long. We developed a new algorithm to scan 107,000 bacterial genomes and discover novel PTs encoded by these bacteria. We then experimentally confirmed 9 new PT families that can kill bacteria and pathogenic fungi, including human pathogens, such as Candida auris and Aspergillus fumigatus. We saw that two of the toxins kill cells by degrading their DNA. (more…)
Dermatology, Infections / 25.10.2024

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice on the appropriate use of Permethrin. It may not be indicated if you are pregnant, nursing or trying to become pregnant. Permethrin should not be overused. There are other causes of itching, including serious illnesses, which should be investigated by your medical provider before treatment and if your condition does not resolve as expected. Table of Contents
  1. Introduction
  2. Understanding Permethrin Cream and Its Uses
  3. How Permethrin Cream Works to Eliminate Parasites
  4. When Should You Use Permethrin Cream?
  5. How to Apply Permethrin Cream for Optimal Results
  6. Side Effects and Safety Considerations
  7. Tips for Preventing Reinfestation
  8. Frequently Asked Questions About Permethrin Cream
Introduction Itchy, uncomfortable skin conditions caused by parasites like scabies and lice can disrupt your daily life and leave you searching for relief. Thankfully, there’s a trusted and effective solution: Permethrin Cream. This topical treatment can bring you much-needed comfort by eliminating parasites and preventing reinfestation. Whether you’re dealing with an existing infestation or looking to prevent one, Permethrin Cream is a reliable ally in your fight against these persistent bugs. (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, JAMA, OBGYNE, Pediatrics / 16.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Eleni G. Jaswa, MD, MSc Assistant Professor, Ob/Gyn, Reproductive Science UCSF MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Some infections during pregnancy have been associated with abnormal neurodevelopment in children. This is likely due to the infection itself, or the maternal immune system response to infection. We sought to determine whether maternal COVID-19 infection during pregnancy, a now common occurrence, was associated with changes in children's neurodevelopment out to 24-months-old, compared to control children not exposed to maternal COVID-19 in utero. (more…)
Author Interviews, COVID -19 Coronavirus, Heart Disease / 10.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Stanley Hazen, MD, PhD Chair, Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences Lerner Research Institute CoSection head, Preventive Cardiology & Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Heart, Vascular and Thoracic Institute Cleveland Clinic MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:  One of the unique features of COVID is that in some subjects, there unfortunately appear to be long term adverse effects that can occur following resolution of the acute infection.  These studies add to the growing body of data showing that COVID-19 infection can enhance risk for experiencing adverse cardiac events (heart attack, stroke, and death) over time. (more…)
HIV, Sexual Health / 04.10.2024

When it comes to health and safety, especially in the escort industry, HIV prevention is a hot topic that deserves a candid discussion. For escorts Toronto, it’s not just about maintaining your well-being; it’s about creating a safer environment for everyone involved. Regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) isn’t just a recommendation it’s a necessity. Let’s dive into why regular testing is so crucial, how it empowers you, and what you need to know to keep yourself and your clients safe. HIV-test.png  

Understanding HIV and Its Transmission

What is HIV?

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells). Over time, if untreated, it can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), which severely weakens the immune system and makes it difficult for the body to fight off infections. The good news? With proper medical care, HIV can be managed, and those living with the virus can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. (more…)
Infections / 27.09.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr De Alwis, Ruklanthi (Rukie) Deputy Director, Centre for Outbreak Preparedness Assistant Professor Emerging Infectious Diseases Programme Duke-NUS Medical School MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The COVID19 pandemic highlighted both the need for strengthened infectious disease surveillance and the critical importance of pathogen genomics in surveillance. However, prior to the pandemic, the technology used for pathogen genomics (i.e. next generation sequencing) was not widely used for public health and mostly available in high-resource countries. The Asia Pathogen Genomics Initiative (Asia PGI) was set up after the pandemic to enhance regional health security through the strengthening of pathogen genomic surveillance in in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) across Asia. This study, conducted through the Asia PGI, aimed to assess the baseline capacities and gaps in pathogen genomic surveillance in lower-resourced countries in the region. (more…)
Protective Gear / 12.08.2024

Frocks, smocks, and lab coats are versatile garments used in both healthcare and hospitality settings, but their primary functions and features can vary depending on the industry. Let’s take a closer look at the practical uses of these garments and explore what Textiles Depothas to offer. Healthcare Smocks: Smocks are often used by healthcare workers for protection against nonhazardous, particulates, and microorganisms. Furthermore, these can be cleaned by products from  microfiberbulk.com. These garments are designed to provide a barrier that helps prevent contamination and maintain hygiene standards. Smocks are typically made from lightweight, breathable materials that allow for comfort during long shifts. They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a cost-effective option for healthcare facilities. For those looking for a good return on investment, smocks offer durability and extended wear, ensuring that healthcare workers remain protected throughout their duties. (more…)
Flu - Influenza, Food Poisoning, Infections / 06.08.2024

Flu season is a yearly challenge that can affect anyone. The flu, or influenza, is more than just a mild inconvenience—it can disrupt your daily life and lead to serious health issues. Whether you're at work, school, or home, the flu virus can easily spread, making it essential to take preventive measures. In this article, we will explore practical tips to help you stay healthy during flu season and know what to do if you do catch the flu. By being proactive, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the worst effects of this common illness.

Understanding the Flu

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It spreads through droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. You can also contract the flu by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. The flu typically comes on suddenly. Common symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue. Unlike the common cold, which develops gradually, the flu can knock you off your feet quickly. (more…)
Infections / 26.07.2024

Onychomycosis, commonly referred to as nail fungus, is a common ailment that affects millions of people who feel uncomfortable about their nails. However, current advances in cheap treatment options have encouraged people in their search for efficient and affordable treatment. Gone are the days when the treatment of nail fungus would require one to pay a lot of money for prescriptions such as efinaconazole generic or opt for complicated surgery.

Today, new approaches successfully combine the possibility of being relatively inexpensive for patients and effective in treating diseases. (more…)
COVID -19 Coronavirus, Vaccine Studies / 07.06.2024

COVID-19 is a virus that devastated the healthcare systems around the globe. The main reason for this devastation was the speed of the spreading. Because it was spreading so fast, hospitals weren’t able to accommodate so many patients. We needed to figure out a better approach to dealing with the pandemic. So, this is where most of the people on Earth stood together by being apart. We were in lockdown, but our scientists and governments collaborated more on finding the right solution.

What Was the COVID-19 Impact on Research Priorities?

One of the major impacts of the pandemic was the speed of research. Because of the urgency and the need for a quick response, research was focused on the COVID-19 virus and therapy and vaccine development for it. The development of vaccines was heavily prioritized, but this does not imply that it is not being done presently. Epidemiology and therapeutic regimens continue to see some initiatives. However, research remains a priority with ongoing trials on many things you can participate in (link to site). This required a lot of funding and resources, so governments, private sectors, and international organizations collaborated and helped out the research process. We’ve proven that we can adapt in no time, and respond to great threats effectively and swiftly. (more…)
Food Poisoning, Infections, Nutrition / 06.06.2024

stomach-pain-pixbyFoodborne illness, or food poisoning as many call it, is a widespread and potentially life-threatening health issue. Therefore, understanding the causes and prevention of foodborne illness is crucial for everyone, from home cooks to professional chefs, food industry workers, and consumers. This article explores the causes of foodborne illness, identifies high-risk foods, and provides essential strategies for preventing this health issue.

Common Causes of Foodborne Illness

Symptoms of foodborne illness can show up quickly, sometimes within hours after you eat or drink a contaminated meal, or they might take a few days to appear. The following is an in-depth look at the common causes: (more…)
Author Interviews, CDC, Infections / 20.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Cathryn Haigh, Ph.D. Chief Prion Cell Biology Unit Laboratory of Neurological Infections and Immunity National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Division of Intramural Research, Rocky Mountain Laboratories National Institutes of Health Hamilton, MT 59840 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study,  ie what are prions/prion-related diseases?  Where are prions found? Response: Prion diseases are infectious neurodegenerative diseases of humans and animals.  In humans these diseases often manifest as rapidly progressing dementias but are rarely caused by a known exposure to the infectious agents (prions).  More commonly they are sporadic (no known cause) or hereditary. One form of human disease is believed to have arisen from eating beef contaminated with bovine spongiform encephalopathy (as known as mad cow disease).  This has resulted in concerns that chronic wasting disease (CWD), a prion disease affecting deer, elk and moose, might also have the potential to cross the species barrier and cause disease in humans.  To date, transmissions of CWD prions to cynomolgus macaques have been negative, a good sign that crossing the species barrier would not be easy, but macaques are not human so we wanted to test whether CWD could infect human brain tissue. To do this we used a human cerebral organoid model (mini human brain tissues grown from skin cells in a laboratory) and directly exposed the organoids to prions from the brains of animals that had died of CWD. (more…)
Heart Disease, Infections, Technology / 07.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Sarah Dräger, MD Postdoc, BRCCH Researcher Internal Medicine and ID specialist Division of Internal Medicine University Hospital Basel, Switzerland Basel   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:In patients with severe infections and patients in the intensive care unit, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) may be used to optimize and personalize intravenous antibiotic treatment. In these patients, “conventional antibiotic dosing”, e.g. selection of the dose only considering the renal function and, if applicable, body weight, may lead to over- or underdosing due to an altered drug metabolism. This, in turn may be associated with worse clinical outcome or toxic side effects. TDM is used to monitor antibiotic blood plasma concentrations and provides guidance to the clinicians to adjust the antibiotic dosing according to the TDM results. But the collection of blood is an invasive, time- and resource-consuming sample collection technique and leads to discomfort to the patients. Additionally, turnaround time may be long (3h to 8h), and analyses may be offered only twice or three time a week. This may be too late to guide antibiotic dosing timely in patients with a very dynamic drug metabolism. Therefore, alternatives are required to overcome the limitations of current TDM. By using exhaled breath, we aim to develop an innovative therapeutic drug monitoring technique, which is non-invasive, easy to collect, not associated with discomfort to the patient, and which may allow to decrease the turnaround time, especially when combined with real-time analyses. (more…)