Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center outline a method for securely collecting sensitive medical research data via the Internet. This approach enables faster and cheaper data collection with the same level of security as traditional methods.
Women with a strong family history of breast cancer who have used early oral contraceptives, particularly those introduced before 1975, may be at heightened risk of developing breast cancer. The study found a 3.3-fold increased risk for first-degree relatives, especially sisters and daughters.
The Puget Sound Oncology Consortium is partnering with the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project to evaluate Herceptin therapy in women with early stage breast cancer. The trial, Protocol B-31, aims to assess the safety and efficacy of combining Herceptin with chemotherapy in treating node-positive breast cancer patients.
A study of caregivers' goals for Alzheimer's treatment reveals that maintaining quality of life is more important than extending lifespan. Most caregivers are willing to accept risks to slow the disease and would prioritize benefits such as preserving memory, communication, and daily function over additional years of life.
Researchers at Howard Hughes Medical Institute successfully directed human embryonic stem cells to differentiate into three germ layers: ectodermal (brain, skin), mesodermal (muscle) and endodermal (liver and pancreas). The study suggests that a combination of growth factors may be needed to achieve specific cell lineages.
David Julius, PhD, has made a groundbreaking discovery about the capsaicin receptor, VR1, which mediates responses to painful stimuli. His work builds on the pioneering research of Edward R. Perl, who first identified nociceptors as responsible for pain perception.
A recent NIH study discovered that gene alterations associated with cystic fibrosis may also contribute to chronic sinus problems in some individuals. The study found that nearly five times more patients with sinusitis carried CFTR alterations than those without the condition.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that a significant proportion of people with epilepsy may also have undiagnosed sleep apnea, which can disrupt brain function and exacerbate symptoms. The study suggests that addressing sleep apnea through lifestyle and medical interventions may help improve seizure control and quality of...
A new study published in Neurology reveals that multiple sclerosis (MS) patients lose cognitive ability and report increased mental fatigue after repeated testing. Researchers attribute this decline to fluctuations in glucose supply and metabolism, which affect brain performance.
A study found that caregivers' problem-solving skills and positive expectations have a modest but potential clinical importance in reducing asthma symptoms. Caregivers with superior problem-solving skills helped children wheeze for fewer hours, while positive expectations improved functioning ability.