Researchers analyzed 37 randomized controlled trials and found that most showed no significant improvement in pain, appetite, weight gain, quality of life, or performance status for patients receiving a placebo. Individual patient responses to placebos were also variable, with some improvements observed in certain symptoms.
A study found that statin use doesn't reduce reproductive hormone levels in premenopausal, perimenopausal, or postmenopausal women with coronary risk factors. The results provide reassurance on the safety of statins for women in child-bearing age.
Researchers discovered that Sox2 is a crucial transcription factor involved in the specification of three embryonic cell lineages. The study found that Sox2-deficient embryos exhibit fatal defects, highlighting its importance in maintaining cellular pluripotency and embryo formation.
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that combination hormone therapy was associated with a 3-5% increase in breast density, while estrogen alone had no effect. This suggests that increased breast density may be a valid marker for the effect of interventions on breast cancer risk.
Researchers found alterations in airway structure due to cigarette smoke exposure in utero may cause symptoms and abnormal lung function in exposed infants. A potential therapy for premature babies with bronchopulmonary dysplasia has been identified as low molecular weight catalytic antioxidant.
A study found no significant association between exposure to contaminated poliovirus vaccine and the incidence of pleural mesothelioma, a rare lung cancer. Incidence rates increased among older males, but remained stable or decreased in younger age groups.
A recent study found that women with negative Pap and HPV tests are at low risk for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3 or cancer, while those with a positive HPV test remain at risk. Researchers also discussed the challenges of analyzing DNA microarray data and recommended ways to improve its interpretation.