Bone SPECT outperforms FDG PET in detecting breast cancer metastases, with a sensitivity of 85% and accuracy of 96%. PET's limitations make it less effective in revealing certain types of lesions.
Researchers at U Iowa have made significant breakthroughs in treating Huntington's disease by reducing protein levels in genetically engineered mice. The study, published in PNAS, demonstrates the effectiveness of RNA interference in improving HD-like symptoms in a mouse model.
Researchers found abnormally low levels of N-acetylaspartate in methamphetamine users, but elevated choline levels in early abstainers, suggesting some degree of normalization over time. The study's findings have important implications for understanding addiction and substance abuse treatment.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have developed a new gene therapy technique that uses homologous recombination to replace mutated genes in human immune cells, restoring both gene function and protein production. This approach has shown promising results in treating severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) and may a...
A survey of 580 ethnically diverse Northern California ninth-graders found that teens considered oral sex less risky and socially acceptable than vaginal sex. However, most participants underestimated the risk of sexually transmitted infections due to oral sex.
Researchers have identified potential brain structures responsible for face recognition in individuals with congenital prosopagnosia. Preliminary findings suggest a genetic basis for the condition, which can have socially debilitating consequences if left undetected.
A recent study published in Developmental Cell reveals a crucial molecular pathway involved in the development of precancerous stomach lesions, which could lead to improved diagnosis and prevention strategies. The research, conducted by Dana-Farber Cancer Institute scientists, identified a key player in this signaling pathway as a tran...
A Penn State-led education program has significantly reduced incidents of shaken baby syndrome in western New York, resulting in a 47% decrease in cases. The program, which costs less than $10 per infant, provides critical information to parents at the time of birth and is designed to be implemented with minimal time and resources.
A study of over 1,200 four-year-olds found that excessive TV watching at age four was associated with a 25% increased risk of becoming a bully by age six. Meanwhile, early emotional support and cognitive stimulation showed substantial protective effects against bullying behavior.
Research suggests that individuals with more inhibitory killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) have a decreased risk of developing cervical cancer. Activation of NK cells is thought to contribute to cancer progression by increasing local inflammation, which has been linked to the development of other types of cancer.
Researchers are creating a chemical guidebook to identify signs of microbial life in Martian rocks. The team, supported by a $900,000 grant, will use advanced mass spectrometer technology and fuzzy logic computer program to analyze spectral images and make decisions about sample selection.
Participants who ate from refilling bowls consumed 73% more soup than those in normal bowls, despite rating themselves as full. The study highlights the dangers of relying on visual cues to gauge food intake and suggests repackaging snacks into small plastic bags to promote healthier eating habits.
A new study published in Nature Medicine shows that infants with Type O blood can accept hearts from donors with Type A blood due to their immature immune system. This breakthrough allows for greater donor compatibility and more successful transplants.
A gene mutation that protects against malaria has been found to increase the risk of aggressive prostate cancer in African-American men. Researchers discovered that mice with this mutation developed larger, more aggressive tumors due to increased angiogenic chemokine production.
Employees share music to portray themselves, but may misread others' musical interests and knowledge. Music sharing builds community within workplaces.
The supplement highlights the need for pediatricians to engage with communities to confront health problems such as obesity, mental health concerns, and violence. Pediatricians are becoming more sensitive to socioeconomic status and child health outcomes, and models for community-based approaches are being developed.
A study found that zinc supplementation improved reaction time, correct answers, and sustained attention in 7th-grade students. However, no significant improvement was seen in motor and social skills. The results suggest that increasing zinc intakes may benefit adolescent mental function, particularly memory.
A high-throughput screening method using automated imaging and bioinformatics has identified a novel compound with promising potential as an anticancer agent. The compound, hydroxy-PP, targets carbonyl reductase 1, an enzyme involved in chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity.
A new 'bionic eye' system aims to restore some degree of sight for people with degenerative retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa. The system, developed by ophthalmologists and physicists, uses a tiny camera and computer processor to directly stimulate the inner retina with visual signals.
A meta-analysis of 20 studies found light therapy to be an effective treatment for SAD and depression, with effects comparable to conventional medications. The study suggests that bright artificial light can help alleviate symptoms of SAD and other non-seasonal mood disorders.
A randomized trial of 240 moderately to severely depressed patients found that cognitive therapy was as effective as antidepressant medication in achieving response and remission. The study supports the idea that cognitive therapy can be a viable treatment option for severe depression, even when provided by experienced therapists.
A study of 316 internet websites found that most government and health advice sites incorrectly state the risks of smokeless tobacco as comparable to cigarettes. This misinformation may encourage smokers to stick with a much more hazardous product, despite available harm reduction options like switching to smokeless tobacco.
A 2002 survey found that over 80% of medical school department chairs struggle to recruit faculty for teaching anatomy, citing research contributions as a major obstacle. However, the pipeline is qualified, and incentives can encourage new faculty members to teach gross anatomy.
A new study found that an atypical antipsychotic drug can prevent brain loss in patients with schizophrenia when started early. The study, led by Dr. Jeffrey Lieberman, measured brain volume and cognitive changes in 263 first-episode schizophrenia patients and 58 non-schizophrenic volunteers over a two-year period.
Researchers found that a single gene, glypican-3, plays a significant role in regulating body size in mice. The gene is already known to be associated with a rare human growth disorder, and its expression level correlates with size variation in both humans and mice.
A study found that atypical antipsychotic medication olanzapine reduced gray matter volume less than conventional haloperidol, while healthy volunteers showed no significant changes. These differences were associated with varying improvements in neurocognitive functioning and behavioral pathology.
A new UC study reveals that children inside school buses inhale significantly more exhaust pollutants than those outside, particularly among older buses. The researchers found that for every metric ton of pollution emitted by a school bus, kids on that bus inhale comparable or larger amounts of pollution.
A lab study found that administering male sex hormones to female mice increases their susceptibility to developing abdominal aortic aneurysms. The goal now is to identify the target of these hormones to develop drugs that can lower the incidence of life-threatening aneurysms.
Studies reveal new insights into atherosclerotic vascular dysfunction, satiety regulation, and hypertension treatment. Cranberry juice improves vascular function in patients with high cholesterol, while statins may disrupt hypertension development through cellular calcium modulation.
Scientists discover NKT cells primarily patrol liver blood vessels, showcasing agility and rapid movement. The study reveals surprises about NKT cell behavior, including their ability to survive without the CXCR6 gene.
A recent study reveals that cognitive therapy is as effective as antidepressant medication in treating depression, but with a lasting impact even after treatment concludes. Cognitive therapy equips patients with skills to manage problems and emotions, outperforming medication in preventing relapses over time.
A study analyzing 2002 claims data from two large private health insurers in Washington state found that 83.6% of insured children had any insurance claims, with 6.2% using an alternative professional during the year. CAM use was more likely among children with cancer, low back pain, and adult family members who used CAM.
The symposium discussed the potential of individualized dietary recommendations to optimize health and reduce chronic disease risk. Experts emphasized the need for tailored food choices, new definitions of health, and the application of technology to determine individual nutritional needs.
The AACR-Minorities in Cancer Research-Jane C. Wright Lectureship recognizes outstanding scientists advancing minority investigators in cancer research. Dr. Wright's pioneering work in clinical cancer chemotherapy and leadership in the field have a lasting impact on cancer research.
Researchers at NYU's Center for Comparative Functional Genomics have discovered a complex system of microRNA gene regulation, with individual genes controlling an average of 200 different transcripts. The team developed PicTar, a new algorithm to predict microRNA target sites in the genome, and made several experimental validations.
Scientists have discovered a subset of learning disabilities resulting from a dysfunction in the brainstem's encoding of basic sounds of speech. BioMAP, a simple neurophysiological test, can identify children with sound processing disorders and improve their speech discrimination skills through auditory training.
A new study identifies SERPINE2 as a novel candidate gene for COPD, particularly in individuals who smoke. The research reveals that SERPINE2 is expressed in lung tissues and cells, and its expression is altered in people with certain clinical characteristics of COPD.
A two-week course of fenofibrate treatment has significantly improved whole body glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity in pediatric burn victims, reducing morbidity outcomes and healing rates. The study showed that treating insulin resistance directly can aid recovery from general trauma, illness, or surgery.
Researchers found that short-term stress in mice enhanced their immune reaction to influenza, leading to faster and more successful recovery. This discovery has broad implications for vaccine development, suggesting new strategies could be developed to boost immunity against influenza and potentially other diseases.
Scientists have discovered that elevated estrogen levels can reduce the severity of asthma by preventing abnormal airway constriction. Selective estrogen receptor modifiers (SERMs) also showed similar effects, suggesting a new molecular target for asthma therapy.
Researchers develop Fluorform-Assisted Light Inactivation technology to identify proteins involved in cancer cell spread, targeting HSP90A and CD155 molecules.
Research found that moderate aerobic exercise significantly improves cardiovascular and autonomic profiles in HIV+ subjects, compared to those without HIV. The study suggests that exercise may be a cost-effective supplemental therapy for HIV patients.
Research found that Viagra increased fetal weights to normal values and completely prevented fetal resorption, suggesting beneficial effects on maternal uterine vascular adaptation and fetal health. The study's selective effect on the uteroplacental circulation avoids complications of antihypertensive therapy during pregnancy.
Researchers discovered that adding growth factor EGF to formula reduces NEC incidence by 50% compared to animals fed formula alone. This could be a preventative measure for NEC in human babies.
Researchers have developed a new positive air pressure chamber that enables early upright gait rehabilitation after lower-extremity orthopaedic surgery. The device allows for precise adjustment of air pressure to minimize impact on the patient's joints and facilitate faster healing.
Researchers found a step-wise increase in soft drink consumption among US children as they age, leading to a decline in milk intake and increased calorie consumption. Milk remains a primary source of essential nutrients, including calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, but its consumption declines with age.
Researchers found that cranberry juice powder improved vascular function in subjects with high blood cholesterol and atherosclerosis after six months. The study suggests that consuming whole foods rich in polyphenols, such as cranberries, may help protect against heart disease.
The Harbor Branch expedition aims to explore the Straits of Florida in search of organisms that produce chemicals with potential to cure diseases like cancer and Alzheimer's. The team will conduct submersible dives on the Cay Sal Bank and Miami Terrace to gather samples and discover new species.
Researchers found significant differences in oxygen consumption and skeletal muscle oxygen conductance between high- and low-running endurance rats. The study, spanning 15 generations, demonstrated coordinated improvements in the oxygen delivery system, including larger hearts and lungs, to maximize efficiency.
Black South African children show lower physical activity levels and calcium intakes compared to white children, yet have higher bone mass at hip. This paradox suggests that osteoporosis development may start in childhood, highlighting the importance of early intervention.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that short bouts of social stress improved the ability of mice to recover from the flu. The stress boosted the production of specialized immune cells called T cells, which fight viruses. This finding may lead to more effective flu vaccines for older adults.
Turtles have a natural mechanism to shut off energy-utilizing activities during anoxia, unlike humans. The discovery reveals potential targets for improving outcomes of cerebral stroke and cardiac infarct, as well as developing better anesthetics.
Rats exposed to alcohol during brain development show altered circadian rhythms, affecting sleep-wake cycles and behavior. The findings have implications for understanding Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and the efficacy of chronotherapeutic treatments.
Research reveals that chronic alcohol consumption impairs the heart's protein synthesis ability in males but not females. The study found altered phosphorylation of a particular protein factor involved in protein synthesis was affected in males following prolonged ethanol consumption.
Researchers found that marine viruses, known as cyanophages, require light to attach to and infect cyanobacteria, which are crucial for ocean health. This discovery could lead to more effective methods of controlling harmful algal blooms in the environment.
Researchers at UCSD found that statins and cholesterol depletors can reduce intracellular calcium levels and inhibit cell growth in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells, which contributes to idiopathic pulmonary hypertension. This novel mechanism may provide a new approach for treating IPAH with current and future therapies.
Researchers discovered NAADP, a natural molecule with potential as an obesity treatment, that works in cells to regulate satiety. The study found NAADP levels increased rapidly and selectively in response to cholecystokinin, a hormone controlling digestion and appetite.
Researchers found that asthma inflammation directly affects the heart's recovery from a heart attack, increasing cardiac tissue damage. Asthma may be identified as a potential risk factor for post-operative complications and recurrent events following cardiology interventions.
A study found that TNF-alpha blocking agents, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, can trigger skin conditions in 25% of patients. The most common conditions were skin infections, eczema, and drug eruptions, with 26% of affected patients stopping treatment due to the condition.
Research reveals that autistic children have significantly lower levels of glutathione, a major intracellular antioxidant, indicating increased oxidative stress. Genetic polymorphisms in three genes (catecho-O-methyltransferase, transcobalamin II, and glutathione-S-transferase M1) are also found to be elevated in autistic children.