A new study finds that subclinical hypothyroidism, a condition prevalent in older women with no observable symptoms, is a strong indicator of risk for hardening of the arteries and heart attacks. Additionally, low-birthweight babies and babies of underweight mothers have a high risk for a diabetic condition.
The new facility will enable researchers to conduct major studies on HIV-1C, a subtype responsible for more than half of the world's infections. The lab aims to identify prevention and treatment strategies to combat the spread of this devastating virus in southern Africa.
Researchers found that a brief deprivation of vitamin A in developing chicken embryos can generate severe craniofacial deformities, which could be reversed with targeted protein treatments. The study suggests that carefully timed protein therapies in human fetuses might repair cleft palate and other birth defects.
A recent study by Duke University researchers found that moderate exercise alone can improve cholesterol levels and reduce body fat in mildly obese people, regardless of weight loss. The study showed significant improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, including a decrease in LDL cholesterol and an increase in HDL cholesterol.
A recent study by UCSF researchers has found a strong genetic link between early stage, non-invasive breast cancer cells and disease recurrences. The study suggests that second tumors are caused by residual cells left over from the primary lesion, highlighting the importance of wide surgical margins to prevent recurrence.
A Northwestern University researcher is leading a five-year, $5 million National Cancer Institute-sponsored study to improve current methods and evaluate new tests for detecting early-stage ovarian cancer. The study aims to identify novel biomarkers that can detect ovarian cancer in its early stages.
A University of Michigan professor and attorney conclude that amending the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) is necessary to protect patients' rights and physician autonomy. ERISA preempts state regulation of managed care organizations, allowing them to avoid liability for medical decisions.
Rheumatic fever, an immune system disease caused by streptococcal infection, is now believed to have killed Mozart, according to experts. The composer's symptoms and death were consistent with the disease, which was rare at the time due to lack of antibiotics.
The program will develop a curriculum for Community Health and Social Welfare Development Motivators to provide basic nursing tasks and support behavioral change in families and communities. The initiative aims to reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and expand upon the work of various public and private organizations.
Scientists propose a revised four-point location model to explain how proteins discriminate between mirror-image molecules. This new understanding could significantly impact drug design, as it challenges the long-held three-point attachment model and may lead to more effective treatment strategies.
A study of genetically obese rats revealed that an overabundance of fat can collect in heart cells and cause them to die, leading to heart failure. The researchers found that a diabetes drug prevents this damage by oxidizing the fat so it burns up rather than accumulating and causing heart-cell death.
The symposium focuses on microbial evolution, genetics, and ecology, shedding light on the complexity of life and its applications in biotechnology. Key areas of research include mutation mechanisms, antibiotic resistance, and plant microbiome interactions.
A new study aims to reduce sexual behaviors that lead to HIV transmission by decreasing isolation of HIV-positive men and engaging them in primary prevention. The 'Bay Men' study, funded by the CDC, uses a support group format with social interaction to provide a safe environment for discussion and learning from each other.
Researchers suggest that a significant majority of people with type 2 diabetes derive little additional benefit from annual eye screening. Instead, every other year or even every third year screening is nearly as beneficial and more cost-effective. This finding could lead to a shift in recommendations for optimal screening intervals.
Children are at high risk for injuries from computer use due to poor posture and ergonomics. By following guidelines such as placing feet on the floor or footrests, maintaining a flat wrist angle while typing, and using adjustable workstations, schools can create safer environments for students.
Researchers captured the first direct images of how high-energy X-rays break apart proteins, revealing specific chemical bonds vulnerable to radiation. This discovery may lead to new methods for preventing radiation damage and improving diagnostic tools for protecting against radiation exposure.
Researchers identified a new treatment approach that could prevent life-threatening complications of alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency. A drug called 4-phenylbutyric acid (PBA) improved secretion of mutant protein, increasing levels by 20% to 50%. This approach may also help patients with other diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.