The shift in commonly used PTH assay has led to inconsistent results, potentially causing increased parathyroidectomy rates, unnecessary medication use, and adynamic bone disease among dialysis patients. Researchers have developed a more specific assay for PTH to address these concerns.
The Joslin Diabetes Center study found that online discussion boards provide a less threatening way to discuss sensitive concerns about diabetes. The study, which tracked over 330,000 visits to the discussion boards, found that nearly 75% of respondents rated participation as having a positive effect on coping with diabetes.
A University of Minnesota study reveals that nearly 20% of childhood cancer survivors experience physical limitations and trouble performing daily activities. Survivors of brain and bone cancers are most affected, with many reporting difficulties attending work or school.
A new high-affinity antibody successfully eliminated anthrax bacteria and its deadly toxins in animal tests, offering a promising treatment for late-stage anthrax infection. The antibody produced in bacterial cells could lead to a simpler and cheaper way to treat anthrax, providing an effective treatment that doesn't require antibiotics.
A new study published in Science demonstrates that microRNAs affect the expression or evolution of the majority of human genes. The researchers found that nearly all genes contain short sequences matching microRNA target sites, which are evolutionarily conserved across species.
Researchers found that genes OCT 4, NANOG, STELLAR, and GDF3 are elevated in seminoma and breast cancer samples. This discovery may lead to new targets for therapy or markers for diagnosis.
In a largest study of its type, researchers treated 2,506 liver tumors and found that MR-guided laser-induced thermotherapy (LITT) improves average survival rate from diagnosis by 3.8 years, outperforming traditional surgery. Laser treatment offers several advantages, including outpatient basis under local anesthesia.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found a significant decline in emergency bypass surgeries performed after angioplasty procedures. The rate dropped from nearly 3% to 0.3% over two decades, with factors such as stent technology and improved drug therapy contributing to the reduction.
Researchers introduce molecularly engineered DNA strands into cell cultures to detect biomarkers in complex samples. The technique could help identify cancers at earlier stages and monitor residual cancer after treatment.
Researchers used brain scans to predict volunteer performance in a motion discrimination task. They found that brain signals related to spatial attention predicted performance, suggesting the brain uses internal signals to influence perception.
The Genetics & Public Policy Center urges the government to issue proposed regulations for a genetic testing specialty, citing concerns over the lack of oversight in the industry. The center argues that a genetic testing specialty is achievable with key quality requirements such as analytic and clinical validity.
Research suggests past fires can predict vegetation composition and structure by analyzing tree rings. This insight helps scientists understand the role of fire in shaping ecosystems over time.
New research suggests that Herceptin may be cost-effective for certain sub-groups of patients with early breast cancer, but its use as adjuvant therapy could impose a significant financial burden on healthcare systems. The study estimates that the cost of providing Herceptin treatment in Belgium would be around €25.5 million per year.
A new cell transplantation technique has successfully restored insulin production in diabetic patients by injecting donor islet cells into the portal vein. The procedure, which uses a steroid-free protocol and sandwich closure method, showed promising results with all 13 patients producing insulin without major complications.
The updated practice parameter provides new definitions for acute, subacute, chronic, and recurrent sinusitis, as well as guidelines for diagnosis and treatment. Antibiotics should be used judiciously, and referral to an allergist/immunologist is recommended for patients with chronic or recurrent sinusitis.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a new therapeutic target for drugs to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) and other autoimmune diseases. By targeting dendritic cells, the researchers hope to stop faulty immune responses at an upstream level.
A study published in Psychology of Women Quarterly found that businesswomen wearing tight skirts were perceived as less competent than their neutrally dressed counterparts. The research suggests women in high status occupations must resist the temptation to emphasize their sex appeal to gain respect from colleagues.
A new study has shown that transmitting full-field digital mammography images over the internet can be done without compromising accuracy or security. The study, which included 1,314 diagnostic screening mammograms, demonstrated the feasibility of regional interpretation centers to improve breast cancer screening access and accuracy.
A new CT-guided injection treatment has been found to be highly effective in treating palmar hyperhidrosis, a condition that affects up to three out of every 100 people in the US. The procedure involves injecting medication into nerve tracts and nodes, resulting in immediate successful results for 47 out of 50 patients.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a DNA identification tool that can accurately identify species from animal tissue samples, with an error rate as low as 4%. The study uses a comprehensive catalog of species and analyzes tissue samples from marine organisms to quantify its effectiveness.
A study of over 662 US patients found that acetaminophen-related acute liver failure increased from 28% to 51% between 1998 and 2003. Unintentional overdoses, often due to combination medication use, led to more severe disease and worse outcomes.
A new model developed by Hyun Jung Cho predicts the key factors and provides quantitative results to protect wetlands, addressing global concerns in ecological restoration. The model can be used for other coastal SAV habitats with local light requirements substituted.
Researchers at Public University of Navarre develop innovative left-handed metamaterials for miniaturized mobile devices, enabling reduced size and improved signal control. The breakthrough technology uses Split Ring Resonators to achieve extremely low losses and has potential applications in wireless communication systems.
The RAPID-CHF trial found that ultrafiltration therapy was safe and effective for patients with acute decompensated heart failure, removing more fluid and improving symptoms compared to standard treatment with intravenous diuretics. A larger trial is underway to compare its effectiveness.
Brandeis University physicists Meyer and Redfield have been honored by the American Physical Society for their pioneering contributions to liquid crystals and biological physics. Their research has led to significant advancements in technologies such as LCD displays, with over 50,000 new liquid crystal materials developed.
Two landmark papers unveiled significant breakthroughs in preventing amputations in diabetes patients. Novel Negative Pressure Wound Therapy technology has been shown to simplify complex wounds, while powerful antibiotics have demonstrated comparable efficacy when administered once daily.
Researchers at UCSD found that selectively inactivating the IKK beta gene in airway membrane-lining cells significantly reduces inflammation, mucus production, and scarring. This discovery suggests a potential targeted treatment for asthma sufferers.
A new HRCT technique shows that cat allergen exposure can lead to persistent inflammation in small airways, increasing the risk of severe asthma attacks. The study's findings highlight the importance of targeting these regions with treatments.
A study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that women with similar levels of heart disease as men reported milder symptoms and perceived their disease as severe less often. Researchers suggest this may contribute to differences in heart care delivery between genders.
Research at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that robotic treadmill training increases activity in the brain responsible for muscle movement and motor learning after 12 weeks. The study suggests that rehabilitation strategies can be designed to engage critical areas of the brain necessary for walking.
A new UCLA study suggests that colonoscopy results do not reassure Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) patients, contradicting previous beliefs. The study found limited diagnostic value of colonoscopy in diagnosing IBS for patients under age 50.
A study found that Ack1 is a key driver of tumor growth in prostate cancer, and its inhibition can slow tumor formation. The researchers also discovered an experimental drug called geldanamycin that can inhibit Ack1 activity by interfering with its molecular interactions.
Research reveals that patients with Hepatitis C are using more healthcare resources, including increased hospitalizations, physician visits, and costs due to disease progression. The study highlights the urgent need for better HCV treatment decisions as the patient population ages.
Research reveals a novel role of serotonin transporters in controlling left-right asymmetry, with implications for embryonic development and potential side effects of certain antidepressant medications. The study also highlights the importance of dynamic serotonin movement within cells.