The FDA has approved Visudyne therapy for the treatment of wet form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness among people over 50. The therapy involves a two-step procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office, causing closure of abnormal blood vessels and potentially restoring central vision.
Research at Penn State reveals vitamin D deficiency worsens symptoms of Chron's disease and ulcerative colitis in mice, while treatment with Vitamin D supplements reduces inflammation. The connection between vitamin D status and inflammatory bowel disease incidence is also suggested by geographical distribution.
A study published in JAMA found that nurse home visits to pregnant women and their families significantly improved health outcomes for years to come. The program reduced time on welfare, increased stability in family structure, and promoted economic self-sufficiency among mothers.
Researchers have created a new liquid-phase protein separation technology that can help scientists solve the proteomics puzzle. The system eliminates time-consuming 2-D gel electrophoresis and can detect trace amounts of protein, providing valuable insights into cancer research and other areas of science.
A Cornell University study reveals that younger farmers' lack of access to modern technology hinders their productivity, while older farmers continue to use technology efficiently despite declining output. The research has implications for business management decisions and federal agricultural policies.
The DFG is setting up 14 new Research Training Units, two of which are European, to provide novel academic qualifications for medics and scientists. The new units will promote interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative research in various fields.
A junior scientist has improved the efficiency of organic solar cells and discovered a new type of transistor, enabling flexible circuit manufacture. This breakthrough paves the way for simplification of circuit manufacturing and potential replacement of traditional silicon-based solar cells.
A prospective cohort study found that regular exercise can benefit men with type 2 diabetes, while low physical fitness is associated with mortality. Meanwhile, a dangerous combination of blood thinners and intravenous steroids requires daily monitoring to prevent life-threatening bleeding.
Fox Chase Cancer Center molecular biologist Dominique Broccoli has been awarded a $100,000 V Foundation Scholarship to investigate the role of telomeres in cellular aging. Her research aims to understand how telomere length limits cell growth and renewal, potentially leading to new approaches for limiting tumor growth.
A study by Rebecca Rudolph and colleagues found that short-segment Barrett's esophagus is not a lower-risk factor for esophageal cancer. Instead, people with this condition are at a similar risk as those with long-segment Barrett's esophagus.