A new phase 2 study shows that combining cetuximab with irinotecan can resensitize tumors resistant to irinotecan, offering patients a new treatment option. The study's modest benefits in stopping cancer growth and improving patient response are seen as a step forward in treating colorectal cancer.
Researchers found that countries like Canada, France, and UK offer lower drug prices as a benchmark for the US. Lowering US prices could eliminate the coverage gap, with total spending decreasing by $28 billion, according to models simulated in 2006.
Researchers found six different mutations in the ATP1A3 gene, which can cause permanent tremors and loss of muscle control. The mutations disrupt the protein's ability to pump sodium and potassium across neurons, leading to neuronal death.
Researchers found that infants as young as five months detect subtle differences in object fit and space description between Korean and English languages. This suggests that humans have pre-existing concepts before acquiring language, which may influence the way we categorize objects and events.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that women are at least twice as likely to develop musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) as men. The study analyzed data from 56 previous studies and accounted for factors such as age, occupation, and reporting methods, but still found a significant gender difference in MSD prevalence.
A study by AIUM found significant improvements in ultrasound practice quality after reaccreditation. The proportion of practices meeting accreditation requirements increased significantly, and scores were higher than initial applications.
A new study suggests a dynamic business plan approach to conservation, prioritizing opportune land acquisitions and leveraging market dynamics to safeguard habitats. The authors aim to improve the effectiveness of protected area networks in addressing the rapid decline of highly threatened vertebrates.
FalconView has been adopted by a wide variety of aircraft and expanded to include new features such as illumination-planning and SkyView, allowing for more efficient mission planning and situational awareness. The software is now being adapted to the Joint Mission Planning System, further increasing its versatility.
Researchers found genetic mutations in fibulin genes, specifically FBLN5, that could contribute to AMD. However, these changes were not statistically significant, and the study highlights the importance of precise search methods for genetic causes.
A UCLA team successfully controlled and detected a single electron's spin in an ordinary commercial transistor chip. This achievement demonstrates that conventional silicon technology is adaptable enough to accommodate the future electronic requirements of new technologies like quantum computing.
The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has awarded several ultrasound research grants to its members, including $10,000 for projects on tumor perfusion and pelvic sonography. The EER also recognized Tatjana Rundek with a special one-time award for her research on carotid artery distensibility.
The research highlights the importance of natural organohalogens, which are found in various organisms, including plants, animals, and insects. These compounds have medicinal properties, such as treating cancer, bacterial infection, and HIV, and serve vital purposes like hormones, pheromones, repellents, and natural pesticides.
A University of Toronto study found that West Nile virus encephalitis is a common neurological manifestation in hospitalized patients, often leading to severe neuromuscular dysfunction. The study's authors recommend electrodiagnostic testing for unexplained weakness and critically ill patients to rule out acute flaccid paralysis syndrome.
Neglected diseases, such as onchocerciasis and Chagas' disease, can be controlled with cost-effective interventions. Investing in these efforts could bring long-lasting benefits and reduce morbidity, particularly for children, if done efficiently from Global Fund resources.
Researchers found that amphetamine treatment dampened peak activity in the ventral striatum region while prolonging its length. This led to equalized levels of activity and positive arousal during anticipation of both gain and loss.
Researchers uncover a new Martian meteorite, MIL 03346, found in Antarctica's Miller Range Icefield, bearing witness to significant segments of Mars' volcanic and environmental history. The specimen is the seventh recognized member of the nakhlites group, offering a critical 'reality check' for interpreting Mars data.
A study found that state-mandated reimbursement policies were associated with an increase in phase II clinical trial enrollment, but not overall or phase III enrollment. The authors suggest that knowledge and attitudes about trials held by physicians and patients play a greater role in participation than state mandates.
A study by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found that Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) improved the regression rates of cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions (SIL) in HIV-positive women. However, a significant proportion of high-risk lesions persisted even among those who received HAART.
Researchers are developing new tests to identify illegal substances and methods used by athletes. Genetic engineering approaches also raise concerns as genes can be used to enhance performance via gene transfer methods.
A study reveals that the APOBEC3G gene, which edits DNA and RNA to prevent viral replication, has been under strong positive selection for 33 million years. This ancient defense mechanism may have evolved to counter human endogenous retroviruses before HIV existed.
A randomized trial of 605 patients with four or more positive lymph nodes found no difference in 5-year relapse-free survival and overall survival between conventional and high-dose chemotherapy. High-dose chemotherapy was shown to confer extra cost and toxicity without added anticancer benefit.
A Michigan Medicine study found that female and black legislators are more likely to sponsor child health bills, with proposals making up 37% of all child health bills. Child health bills were a small percentage of overall health bills, but states with higher legislative passage rates had more success in enacting these bills.
Researchers found that muscle mechanoreceptor stimulation, independent of central command, significantly increased forearm sweat rate during passive cycling recovery. In contrast, chest sweat rate was only increased at the mid-recovery period. The study suggests that muscle mechanoreceptors are equally important in producing sweat as h...
Researchers have discovered that N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can prevent cisplatin-induced ototoxicity, a type of progressive and irreversible hearing loss in patients undergoing chemotherapy for head and neck cancer. The study found that NAC was most effective when given 15 minutes before chemotherapy.
Researchers have discovered that Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) plays a crucial role in coordinating the immune response to viral infections. In this study, Dr. Marco Colonna and colleagues found that TLR9 recognizes viruses in immune cells and activates natural killer cell responses.
Researchers identified NRH1 as essential for regulating convergent extension in frogs, a process also influenced by Wnt/PCP signaling. Overexpression of NRH1 resulted in shortening of the body axis and failure of mesodermal marker gene expression, while loss-of-function led to inhibition of convergent extension.
A study analyzing the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database found that it is reasonably reliable for collecting cancer incidence and mortality data. Researchers compared histologic tumor types from patients reported to the SEER database with those obtained through an independent review, finding no difference in di...
According to a study published in JAMA, aging populations have led to improved five-year survival rates for heart failure patients. Notably, women outlive men with heart failure by about 4 years, while treatment approaches can be refined to improve patient outcomes and reduce hospitalizations.
The study reveals a mechanism by which cell signals induce specific patterns of cartilage and bone formation in the vertebrate head. The findings provide insight into craniofacial syndromes such as DiGeorge Syndrome, highlighting the importance of local, interconnected strategies of development.
A Japanese study found that heavy smokers who switch to low-yield cigarettes do not reduce their nicotine intake significantly. Instead, they may increase their risk due to compensatory behavior, inhaling more carbon monoxide or tar per cigarette.
The study found that LR11 plays a crucial role in regulating beta amyloid levels, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease. The Emory researchers used lentiviruses to selectively reduce and enhance LR11 expression in mouse brains and cultured cells.
A new Mayo Clinic study finds that CABG surgery is not a risk factor for dementia, but patients may experience cognitive decline due to surgical complications. The study took an innovative approach by starting with dementia cases and comparing them to non-demented control groups.
A study suggests that aging HIV patients are at risk of developing dementia due to the accumulation of amyloid beta in their brains. Researchers found a correlation between years of infection and increased amyloid beta levels, suggesting that good clinical control of plasma HIV may not be enough to prevent related pathologies.
A recent study found that caffeine treatment in premature neonates significantly increases ventilation during hyperoxia, with enhanced peripheral chemoreceptor activity. The findings suggest a direct effect of caffeine on central nervous structures controlling respiration, validating its anti-apneic effects.
A study published in Cancer Cell reveals that mouse cells lacking LKB1 and PJS mouse polyps show activation of molecules downstream of the mTOR protein. Researchers suggest that using mTOR inhibitors like rapamycin may be useful for treating PJS patients' polyps and potentially other tumors resulting from LKB1 loss.
Experts disagree on acetaminophen's safety; William M. Lee advocates for stricter regulation to reduce overdoses, while Barry H. Rumack suggests therapeutic doses are safe and most cases may be intentional overdose attempts.
The West Nile virus has a devastating impact on small populations of sage-grouse, with a 25% decrease in late summer survival rates. The bird species lacks resistance to the virus, making it essential to improve habitats and implement effective mosquito control measures.
Climate modeling reveals that Antarctica's isolation allows the Gulf Stream to dictate warm conditions over Europe. The Antarctic circumpolar current separates the continent from warm subtropical waters, reducing its impact on global climate.
A randomized trial found that pravastatin therapy reduced LDL-C levels by 24.1% and carotid intima-media thickness by regression in children with familial hypercholesterolemia. The study's findings suggest that statin treatment can reverse increased arterial wall thickness progression in these patients.
Research by Dr. Riley found that children aged 6-11 can complete age-appropriate health questionnaires and provide reliable information about their health. The Child Health and Illness Profiles assessment tools, including the CHIP-CE, have been shown to predict future healthcare use.
The study suggests that the risk of suicidal behavior is similar among users of different antidepressant drugs, including SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants. The risk of suicidal behavior is highest in the first month after starting treatment, particularly within the first nine days.
A three-year National Science Foundation grant funds a program to mentor deaf and hard of hearing students in state-of-the-art physics research at Tufts. Students from NTID and Gallaudet University participate in hands-on lab experience and classroom instruction.
Researchers created a map of the influenza A (H3N2) virus's antigenic and genetic evolution from 1968 to 2003, revealing 11 closely related virus clusters. The approach will aid in monitoring antigenic differences among vaccine strains and predicting infection success of emerging viruses.
Researchers used gemcitabine and low doses of radiation to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer in 24 patients. Most were able to keep their bladders intact and were cancer-free after four years, with 65% still cancer-free.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine presented multiple studies highlighting the relationship between stress and Alzheimer's disease severity, as well as identifying predictive brain changes. These findings may lead to improved treatments and early detection methods for the devastating disease.
A study of 4,537 Olmsted County residents found that heart failure incidence remained stable between 1979 and 2000, but survival rates improved for women. In contrast, men experienced poorer outcomes, with higher incidence rates and lower survival rates.
The study found that increasing PPAR-gamma activity in dendritic cells can activate NKT cells specifically, which may slow down the process of type 1 diabetes. Researchers believe that modulating CD1d expression and NKT cell activation could provide insight into how to combat autoimmunity.
Researchers at Stanford University used Drosophila melanogaster to study wound healing, discovering that distinct genetic programs and signaling pathways control each stage of the process. This breakthrough could help identify molecular underpinnings of wound healing in humans.
Research suggests that managing blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and body weight can promote healthier aging and reduce Alzheimer's risk. Studies found a consistent increase in cognitive health with higher HDL (good) cholesterol levels and some hypertension medications associated with reduced Alzheimer's risk.
Recent advances in brain imaging may allow early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and other dementias, as well as improved assessment of treatment effectiveness. Researchers have developed new PET technologies to visualize abnormal protein accumulations in the brain, which may help differentiate between Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Researchers at Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have developed the PDA web service, allowing scientists to analyze genetic diversity in different individuals and species. The server enables the search for small variations in genomes, providing valuable information for studying illnesses with a genetic origin.
Researchers demonstrated the safety of combining MT-1 with UV-B light or sunlight to induce tanning in human subjects. The study showed that MT-1 can be safely administered with UV-B exposure, resulting in enhanced tanning without adverse effects.
A study of 546 stroke patients found that higher NIHSS scores were associated with increased risk of being discharged to rehabilitation or nursing facilities. The NIHSS score was also found to be a predictor of discharge destination, even after accounting for other factors.
A new vaccine has induced antibodies and T cells targeting a specific cancer antigen, showing promise in delaying cancer recurrence. The NY-ESO-1/ISCOMATRIXTM vaccine demonstrated stronger responses compared to placebo or NY-ESO-1 protein alone.
Cardiovascular patients who have undergone re-vascularization procedures tend to live longer and have a better quality of life, according to the study. The guidelines provide recommendations for pre-travel preparation, including medication management and airline security protocols.
A team of researchers has identified a gene linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), revealing a genetic basis for the syndrome. The gene, TSPYL, is expressed in both the brainstem and testes, and its alteration can cause sudden death in infants.
The cost of care for those with Alzheimer's is projected to rise dramatically, with direct costs alone increasing by 60-200% as the disease progresses, and reaching $50 billion in less than 10 years.
Researchers successfully coaxed human embryonic stem cells into antigen presenting cells that educate the immune system. These cells can control T cell responses, potentially reducing rejection rates for transplanted tissues.
The Yale team will conduct research on implementing structural interventions among high-risk groups in southern India, aiming to reduce HIV transmission and promote healthier behavior. The project, funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to address social, economic, and normative factors that contribute to HIV risk.
Researchers found genes in stromal cells were overactive in early and late-stage breast cancer specimens. Targeting these components with cancer drugs might improve treatment effectiveness. The study identified two potential therapeutic targets: CXCL12 and CXCL14.