A new set of quality indicators has been created to evaluate the quality of care received by patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery. The guidelines cover aspects of surgical care, including pre-operative evaluation and post-operative management, to provide a valuable tool for improving patient outcomes.
A study by Duke University Medical Center cardiologists found that women tend to live longer with heart failure than men, having a less severe form of the disease. The research suggests that understanding these gender differences can help physicians tailor prevention or treatment strategies to specific patients.
A new mathematical model explains the distinctive structure of collagen, a material key to healthy human bone, muscles, and tissues. The model shows collagen's structure from the atomic to the tissue scale, providing insights into its high extensibility and strength.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute found that bone stretches more than its fibers and mineral composition, allowing it to sustain large strains without breaking. The hierarchical structure of bone leads to a hierarchical deformation, with soft layers absorbing most of the strain, protecting the mineral phase from excessive loads.
Researchers identified 142 candidate indicators of quality care for colorectal cancer surgery, including surgical credentials, preoperative evaluation, and postoperative management. The expert panel rated 92 indicators as valid, suggesting these can be used to measure care quality and create improvement programs.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center have developed a new animal model for pancreatic cancer that exhibits aggressive characteristics similar to human tumors. The genetically-engineered mice can be used to investigate targeted drug therapies and identify potential screening methods for early detection.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have found that the protein fragment endorepellin blocks both skin and lung cancer tumors from progressing in animal models by preventing their ability to recruit new blood vessels. Endorepellin has surprisingly powerful effects on halting a cancer tumor's ability to move about and spread.
Researchers found that adolescents with a history of arrest were more likely to engage in unprotected sex acts and use substances during sex. This increased risk was attributed to higher rates of substance abuse, mental health issues, and unfavorable attitudes towards risky behavior.
Researchers found that sorafenib can prevent pulmonary hypertension development in rodents by inhibiting abnormal cellular growth and new blood vessel formation. The study suggests a potential therapeutic option for this cardiovascular disease.
Employers covering over 90% of the nation's workforce see health benefits as a crucial factor in attracting and retaining top talent. Many firms are open to sharing the cost of health insurance and supporting incremental reforms aimed at expanding coverage, improving quality, and reducing administrative expenses.
Researchers found a new approach to treating chronic and debilitating neuropathic pain by blocking the alpha9alpha10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. The study suggests a previously unrecognized molecular mechanism for treating this condition, which affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide.
A new method of measuring forest cover considers volume, biomass, and captured carbon, showing a growing trend in most countries. Richer nations with higher GDP per capita tend to have more forested areas, biomass, and carbon.
A study of over 2,000 kidney transplant patients in the Netherlands found that obese individuals were twice as likely to die within the first year or experience graft failure. This is attributed to a higher incidence of infections and fatal heart conditions among obese patients.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully grown and implanted adult pig stem cells to repair damaged heart tissue after a lab-induced heart attack. The study demonstrates proof of principle for using cardiac stem cell therapy to regenerate infarcted heart muscle and restore heart cell function.
The Polarstern ship will conduct the first major biological research in an uncharted area of the Antarctic Peninsula, studying living communities from microbes to whales. The expedition aims to understand the impact of global warming on ice shelves and sea level rise.
The 2006 AAAS Science Journalism Awards honored exceptional science reporting on Alzheimer's disease, climate change in the American West, and crop research. Winners included Stacey Burling for her story on Alzheimer's and Michelle Nijhuis for her series on climate change.
Researchers use mouse model to demonstrate how a clock oscillator regulates cell signaling and periodic expression of genes involved in spine formation. The study identifies novel genes associated with segmentation clock oscillator and their potential link to human diseases such as congenital scoliosis.
Scientists discover plant-derived triterpenoids and rexinoid LG100268 significantly reduce tumor growth in mice, offering potential future chemoprevention methods. The compounds inhibit inflammation and induce apoptosis in human lung cancer cells, presenting a promising avenue for preventing lung cancer.
Research suggests that women in their first pregnancy with placental malaria are three times more likely to develop preeclampsia. High levels of sVEGFR1 and VEGF were found in these mothers, indicating a conflict between the mother's and fetus's immune responses.
A new study by Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute shows that a mother's diet during pregnancy can affect the health of her grandchildren by changing the behavior of a specific gene. The research involved mice fed with or without nutritional supplements, which resulted in changes to their coat color and obesity levels.
A survey of 9,000 people in eight countries found that 57% of Americans and 47% of Canadians consider post-9/11 anti-terrorism laws to be intrusive. The study also reveals cultural differences in attitudes towards surveillance and personal data, highlighting the need for public education and organizational accountability.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers reveals that people with sleep apnea are at a higher risk for ventricular premature contraction, a type of irregular heartbeat that can be fatal. The study found that sleep apnea exacerbates the condition, especially during REM sleep, and may lead to sudden death if left untreated.
A Canadian study found that flu vaccines are associated with a small but increased risk of hospitalization for Guillain-Barré syndrome, a potentially debilitating neurological disorder. The absolute risk is very low, and the disorder affects about one in 100,000 individuals per year.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center discovered that tiny RNA molecules, called microRNAs, play a significant role in causing heart enlargement and increasing the risk of heart failure. By manipulating these microRNAs, it may be possible to treat heart disease.
A study reveals that younger stroke survivors (under 65) struggle with accessing physicians and affording medications due to lack of health insurance. These individuals are at higher risk for recurrence and increased long-term healthcare utilization.
A recent study by the University of Toronto found a statistically significant link between TV viewing and physical inactivity in Canadian adolescents. The study, which tracked over 7,982 participants aged 12-19, revealed that more hours spent watching TV were associated with less energy expended on physical activity.
The National Institute of Mental Health is funding five new projects to investigate the relationship between antidepressant medications and suicidal thoughts or actions. Studies will analyze data from various sources, including the FDA, VA, and Medicare records, to determine the effectiveness of different depression treatments in reduc...
A study published in CANCER reveals that adolescent and young adult cancer patients value social connections with peers as a high priority, contrary to physician beliefs. Researchers found that meeting other young people who share a common experience helps address concerns such as coping with uncertainty and body changes.
ABT-737, a BH3 mimetic, targets Bcl-2 proteins to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. The treatment has shown effectiveness against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells and can be combined with MCL-1 inhibitors for improved results.
Researchers used fruit flies to study the genetic basis of species differences, finding that small changes in control regions of genes can result in morphological differences and potentially even the creation of a new species. The study highlights the importance of regulatory sequences in gene evolution.
Researchers at Yale School of Medicine found that hospitals using six specific strategies have faster door-to-balloon times, resulting in better patient outcomes. These strategies include activating the catheterization laboratory and having real-time data feedback for staff.
The MEDAL trial found that etoricoxib and diclofenac have similar heart attack and stroke rates, but different side-effect profiles. Etoricoxib reduces gastrointestinal bleeding risk but may increase cardiovascular events.
A study of healthy women has found that stress-related cortisol administration can reduce fatigue and increase vigor. The research may help fine-tune treatments for illnesses linked to low cortisol levels, such as chronic fatigue syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder.
A team of researchers is using data from the 2001 census to build a model of the UK population, which will be used to test the consequences of different demographic trends and policy decisions. The model can be projected into the future to explore how different scenarios may play out.
A study found that enhanced caregiver support and counseling delayed nursing home placement by 1.5 years, improving caregivers' tolerance for patient behavior and increasing satisfaction with social support. This intervention could potentially save $90,000 per patient in nursing home care costs.
A new report suggests that adolescents make decisions based on weighing risks and benefits, similar to economists' ideal, but also relying on intuitive reasoning. This challenges the common notion of adolescents being reckless and impulsive.
Researchers found that pioglitazone reduced carotid artery intima-media thickness by .001 millimeters and improved blood glucose control, while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. These findings suggest pioglitazone may be a new approach to further reduce cardiovascular risk in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at New York University are developing molecular delivery vehicles to transport nucleic acids into cells. Their work aims to silence genes improperly produced through RNA interference, with potential applications in genetic therapies.
A new task for IgG has been discovered, helping cells capture germs and dispose of them. The antibody aids in the formation of phagolysosomes that kill off invading microbes.
A new clinical trial, CHICAGO, demonstrated that pioglitazone (ACTOS) reduced the progression of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), a surrogate marker for heart attack and stroke, by 0.013 mm. The study also showed improved glycemic control, decreased triglycerides, and increased HDL-C levels with ACTOS treatment.
A new drug-antidote combination has been shown to be safe in its first clinical trial, offering a potential 'on-off' switch for controlled anticoagulation. The treatment targets human coagulation factor IXa and rapidly reverses the anticoagulant's effects.
Researchers propose a new model for targeted cancer therapy, suggesting that disruption of cell signaling pathways leads to cell death. This could lead to more effective treatment strategies and personalized cancer treatment.
Patients with ankylosing spondylitis who received Enbrel treatment experienced sustained improvements in signs and symptoms, spinal mobility, and physical function over 148-160 weeks. A total of 78% of patients achieved a 20% improvement in the Assessment on Ankylosing Spondylitis Response Criteria (ASAS) after 160 weeks.
The March of Dimes and the Johnson & Johnson Pediatric Institute launched a three-year Prematurity Prevention Initiative in Kentucky to test bundling proven interventions and reduce preventable preterm births. The initiative aims to provide expectant mothers, families, and healthcare professionals with comprehensive support and education.
A pharmacy care program for elderly patients increases medication adherence, resulting in improved health outcomes. The study found that the program was associated with significant improvements in systolic blood pressure and sustained medication adherence.
Scientists have developed an inexpensive gene chip test that can detect H5N1 infections with high accuracy, providing a significant advantage over existing tests. The MChip has the potential to revolutionize laboratory testing for influenza, enabling rapid and accurate identification of flu viruses, including avian influenza H5N1.
Testing preterm children's eyes at 2.5 years of age may help identify those who will develop vision problems by age 10. The study found that refractive errors, including astigmatism and anisometropia, were more common in preterm children than full-term children.
Researchers have used a new type of light microscope to visualize the distribution of H2AX proteins in the cell nucleus, revealing clusters that direct DNA repair after damage. This discovery provides new insights into the complex process of gene repair and its relationship with other nuclear components.
Studies found that colorectal cancer screening rates are increasing among Veterans Affairs patients, while younger veterans with other illnesses may not benefit from screening and may even be harmed. Screening methods include fecal occult blood testing and colonoscopy.
A study by Jane Kim and colleagues suggests that introducing a once-in-a-lifetime screen for cervical cancer can provide opportunities to offer additional health checks, such as depression treatment and anemia screening. The optimal package of health services balances monetary limitations and personnel shortages, maximizing health bene...
A new study by Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute shows that a pregnant mother's diet can affect the behavior of her pups and even their pups' coats, influencing offspring health for generations. The research uses mice with a unique gene linked to obesity and diabetes, suggesting similar human connections.
Researchers propose a new classification system for addictive drugs based on their effect on dopamine levels in the brain. This new classification may help in directing research towards more effective treatment of addiction.
A study by University of Illinois researcher Patrick Weatherhead found a direct correlation between the North Atlantic Oscillation and the decline in red-winged black bird population. The population decreased by 50% due to warmer, wetter winters in the southeastern United States.
A study found female budgerigars pair with males that sound like them, receiving more assistance during nesting. Males that mimic similar calls are also less aggressive and provide better support to females.
Researchers uncover that junk DNA can generate microRNAs, regulating protein production, contradicting previous assumptions. The discovery expands our understanding of functional genomics and sheds light on the mysterious role of non-coding sequences in human development and disease.
A recent study found that nearly half of newly diagnosed breast cancer patients exhibit clinically significant emotional distress, including symptoms of major depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. The most common sources of distress were related to the cancer diagnosis, treatment uncertainty, and physical problems.
Enbrel, a biologic treatment, demonstrates sustained improvements in rheumatoid arthritis symptoms over up to nine years. Patients showed significant reductions in joint pain, stiffness, and disability.
Researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center have developed a new artificial cornea that improves vision in infants and children with cloudy or damaged corneas. The device shows promising results, restoring vision and eliminating the need for repeated surgeries and infections.
A new study indicates that boosted Invirase results in comparable levels of viral suppression as lopinavir, while also reducing the risk of elevated cholesterol and triglycerides. The treatment also showed fewer gastrointestinal adverse events compared to lopinavir.
A recent study found that individuals with higher levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in their blood had a significantly lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. DHA is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in fish, which appears to affect dementia risk and proper functioning of the central nervous system.