Researchers have discovered that injecting herpes simplex virus vectors can deliver neurotrophic factors to damaged nerves, improving intracavernous pressure in rats. This concept could translate to humans, enabling gene therapy as a prophylactic treatment for men undergoing radical prostatectomy.
A study evaluated online resources for breast cancer clinical trials in Canada, finding that only 29% were listed. The US National Cancer Institute's PDQ Clinical Trials Database identified 86% of trials globally.
A team of scientists has identified a cancer-causing gene in childhood kidney tumors, which may lead to more precise diagnoses and effective treatments. The discovery was made using molecular tests on tumor cells from patients with papillary renal cell carcinoma, a disease difficult to treat due to its unclear molecular origins.
In a groundbreaking study, researchers discovered that wood mice employ a sophisticated navigation system involving 'portable signposts'. These signs, created by moving small objects, help the mice orient themselves and efficiently explore their home-ranges. The findings provide new insights into the complex behavior of non-human species.
A study of 10 young children with SARS found that they exhibited milder symptoms such as cough and runny nose, unlike teenagers who showed symptoms similar to adults. The clinical course was also shorter and less aggressive among younger patients.
Researchers found that consuming sesame oil as the sole cooking oil for 60 days lowered patients' blood pressure levels from 166/101 mm Hg to 134/84.6 mm Hg, with a reduced dose of nifedipine from 22.7 mg/day to 7.45 mg/day. The effect may be attributed to polyunsaturated fatty acids and sesamin in sesame oil.
Researchers have purified Wnt protein, a potent trigger of development and cell proliferation, to activate blood-forming stem cells. The discovery offers novel ways to enhance stem cells for cancer patients whose immune systems are compromised by chemotherapy.
A study found that regular physical activity, especially brisk walking, significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and death in men with diabetes. Diabetic men who were in the third highest category of total physical activity reduced their risk by 36 percent.
Researchers found that oxytocin and estrogen receptor genes play a crucial role in social recognition in female mice. Female mice lacking these genes failed to recognize normal females after repeated introductions, indicating a 'micronet' necessary for complex behavior.
A Pittsburgh study reveals that thunderstorm-related deaths predominantly occur among males, with 70% of fatalities attributed to males. The majority of these incidents involve flash floods or lightning strikes while driving, playing sports, or engaging in outdoor activities.
Researchers discovered the GARS gene responsible for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2D and distal spinal muscular atrophy type V, providing insights into neurological diseases. The study may lead to new treatment approaches and a better understanding of peripheral nerve diseases.
A new predictive system identifies two DNA polymorphisms that distinguish between HBV-positive patients who respond well to lamivudine treatment and those who develop resistance. The study's findings have significant implications for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B, potentially saving millions from liver disease and cancer.
A new evidence-based protocol has been shown to significantly improve healing rates and reduce costs for people with venous leg ulcers. The study found that by standardizing assessment and follow-up care, nursing teams can deliver more effective and less expensive care.
UCSD researchers found that the Staph protein SpA triggers a pre-emptive attack on B cells, leading to their death and preventing them from developing memory cells. This process may explain why staph infections are common and recurring. The study's findings have potential applications in treating autoimmune diseases and cancers.
Researchers linked poorly controlled hypertension with a higher risk of depression in patients. The study highlights the importance of treating depression to prevent poor blood pressure control and related health risks.
The American Psychiatric Association and AstraZeneca have launched an international awards programme to support young psychiatry researchers working in the fields of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The programme aims to provide vital career development support to help advance innovative research and treatment options for patients.
Women who placed more importance on life goals showed higher levels of natural killer cell activity, and writing about a stressful event was not associated with changes in immune activity. The study aims to uncover the ways in which finding meaning influences the immune system.
A study by Alan Cassels and colleagues analyzed newspaper coverage of 5 different prescription drugs in 24 Canadian newspapers. The findings showed that a majority of articles failed to mention potential side effects or harms, while only a small minority provided quantitative information on benefits and harms.
In a study, mice fasted every other day had lower blood glucose and insulin levels than control or calorically restricted groups. Meal-skipping also improved nerve cell resistance to neurotoxin injury, suggesting potential benefits for neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at Spin Master Toys developed a new bubble solution that can last for weeks, thanks to a strengthening polymer. The 'Catch-A-Bubble' product uses a combination of soap and water to create long-lasting bubbles that can withstand evaporation.
A survey of international medical graduates who applied to the CaRMS match found that almost half (49.2%) would prefer to practice in communities with a population of less than 100,000 people. However, only 7.8% would choose rural areas with populations under 10,000.
TSRI scientists have identified rare genetic mutations in the TLR4 gene that increase susceptibility to meningococcal sepsis, a devastating disease with a 12% case fatality rate. The study suggests that individuals with these mutations may be protected from severe sepsis through prophylactic treatment.
The SLAC experiment has discovered a new subatomic particle called the Ds (2317), which combines a charm quark with an anti-strange quark. This unusual configuration has unexpected properties that will provide insight into the force binding quarks together, challenging current understanding of quark forces.
Researchers at University of Toronto have developed a material that converts electrical current into photons, holding promise for directly linking computers with networks transmitting information in light. The study demonstrates the conversion of electrical current into light using a promising class of nanocrystals, paving the way for ...
Researchers have created a colony of mice that can fight off aggressive cancer cells, shedding light on a previously unrecognized mechanism of host resistance. The discovery may hold promise for developing better therapies or prevention methods against cancer in humans.
The US Physics Olympiad team consists of 24 high school students from 14 different states who were selected to compete in the International Physics Olympiad. The team will undergo a week-long physics 'boot camp' and attend lectures by prominent scientists before traveling to Taipei, Taiwan for the competition.