A multi-institutional research team analyzed nearly 11,000 human cancers to identify molecular changes involved in cancer development. They confirmed previously known pathways and discovered new ones, such as IDH1 and VHL, which may be linked to targeted therapy.
Researchers found that using MRI to detect lesions and guide biopsies increased standardized quality-adjusted life years for patients, and was cost-effective in 94.05% of simulations. This approach could change how doctors identify and sample cancer lesions, reducing unnecessary treatments and costs.
Patients with stage III colon cancer who reported a healthy lifestyle had a 42% lower chance of death and a trend for lower cancer recurrence risk than those with less healthy lifestyles. A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight were all important factors.
A biostatistician aims to improve national reproductive health by analyzing family planning indicators at the subnational level. The grant will help provide more detailed information on contraceptive use and demand, shedding light on local disparities.
A new study found that nearly half of seniors in Ontario who visited a family doctor for a non-bacterial infection received an unnecessary antibiotic prescription. The majority of prescriptions were for broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are associated with increased risk of adverse outcomes and antibiotic resistance.
A study led by Penn and Columbia researchers found a link between the production of an enzyme called ADAMTS7 and smoking-related heart disease. The team discovered that smoking boosts ADAMTS7 production, which can lead to clogged blood vessels and CHD.
Researchers discovered rare genetic variants on chromosomes 4 and 7 linked to extended survival and lower risks of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's. The study highlights the importance of studying rare cases to identify combinations of common and rare variants associated with extreme longevity.
A study published in CMAJ found that team-based primary care practices in Quebec had lower rates of emergency department visits and death among older or chronically ill patients after hospital discharge. The researchers attributed this to better coordination of care, which reduces hospital readmission and death.
Researchers found somatic mitochondrial DNA inserts in colon and rectal cancer genomes, correlated with gene-rich segments and poorer patient survival. A novel Fiber-FISH technique rapidly maps mitochondrial DNA insertions in nuclear genomes.
Researchers identified over 1,300 genes completely knocked out in at least one individual, including the APOC3 gene, which regulates triglyceride metabolism. These individuals had low triglyceride levels and were protected from post-meal rise in plasma triglycerides.
Researchers discovered three novel genetic mutations associated with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, increasing the number of known risk factors fourfold. The study also revealed sex-specific differences in genetics and found that these genes can predict disease risk with approximately 78% accuracy.
A new study at the University of California found that assessing and comparing radiation doses across hospitals can lead to significantly lower doses for common CT scans. The project resulted in substantially lower radiation doses for chest and abdominal scans, as well as more consistent radiation doses for head scans.
A study led by the University of California - San Francisco found that South Asians and Hispanics of normal weight are more likely to have high glucose and hypertension compared to whites. The researchers found that non-whites need lower BMI levels to match the cardio-metabolic risks of whites with a higher BMI.
Researchers found that individuals with blindness, intellectual disability, or spinal cord injury are less likely to receive recommended colorectal screenings. The study's findings emphasize the importance of increased awareness and advocacy efforts to ensure all individuals are screened appropriately for this preventable cancer.
Researchers have identified two distinct glioma subtypes associated with specific genetic markers, expanding the understanding of glioma susceptibility. The study found that these genetic markers increase the risk of developing brain tumors, but each marker only provides a modest increase in risk.
A new study by Johns Hopkins scientists reveals that nearly two-thirds of cancer mutations are caused by random DNA copying errors. The researchers developed a mathematical model based on DNA sequencing and epidemiologic data, estimating that 66% of cancer mutations result from copying errors.
A study published in Health Communications shows that women at high risk for breast cancer who received a letter informing them of their options for additional imaging with contrast-enhanced MRI were more likely to return for additional screening. The researchers found that direct communication increased follow-up screening rates among...
Researchers develop Markov model to provide personalized information for women undergoing infertility treatment, considering factors like age, body weight, and AMH blood levels. The model can be updated in real-time and translated into a physician-friendly app.
Researchers found several gene variants near ABCB4 and ABCB1 genes that may predispose individuals to gallbladder cancer. These variants could lead to better understanding of the disease causes and potentially develop new treatments.
A study published in AIMS Public Health estimates that the 1962 human cell strain breakthrough saved nearly 10 million lives and prevented over 4.5 billion cases of disease globally through vaccination. The development enabled vaccines to be produced safely, leading to widespread vaccination against multiple infections.
A personalized strategy involving frequent CA125 blood tests and ultrasound examinations could improve the chance of detecting tumors at early stages. This approach reduced the risk of diagnosis with advanced cancer in high-risk women who chose to delay recommended preventive surgery.
Constantine Gatsonis, a leading researcher on cancer screening studies, emphasizes the importance of rigorously produced evidence in health screenings. His work has shed light on the accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and impact of various screening methods, including digital mammography and tomosynthesis.
According to Dr. Rochelle Tractenberg, a statistical crisis is emerging due to improper analysis and interpretation of data, leading to irreproducible results. She advocates for responsible conduct in research and the importance of treating data ethically.
Research at Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital found that specific brain cell subpopulations play a role in epilepsy. Astrocytes were divided into distinct subpopulations, each with unique gene expressions and functions. These subpopulations may contribute to brain tumor progression and seizure onset.
A federal law aimed at ensuring equal insurance benefits for physical and mental health care has led to modest increases in healthcare utilization among children with autism spectrum disorder. Despite these gains, researchers highlight the need for stronger enforcement of the parity law to ensure adequate access to services.
Researchers at UC San Francisco and Kaiser Permanente have identified genetic predictors of normal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in healthy men. This information can be used to improve the accuracy of PSA-based prostate cancer screening tests.
A new study found that hospital admissions for cardiovascular diseases decline on snowy days but surge 23% two days later, according to a Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study. The researchers analyzed data from four major Boston hospitals and found cold-weather-related disease admissions increased by 3.7% on high snowfall days.
A new automated web-based surveillance system has been demonstrated to detect potential safety problems with medical devices like the Mynx, a vascular closure device. The system, called DELTA, performs automated safety analyses and comparative effectiveness studies prospectively, sending alerts to users via email.
Researchers used social media and internet reports to analyze exposure patterns during the 2014-2015 Ebola epidemic and 2015 Middle East Respiratory Syndrome outbreak. The study found that alternative data streams can provide reliable information on disease dynamics in the early stages of an outbreak.
A new study from UCLA suggests modifying federal health guidelines to use a risk calculator that takes into account more factors, potentially increasing effectiveness of PrEP in preventing HIV transmission. The calculator uses real-world data and is expected to be useful for gay and bisexual men who have sex with men.
A new study by Dr. Jan Blustein reveals China's cesarean rate is substantially lower than the WHO's reported figure of 46.2%, with a rate of 34.9% in 2014. The study highlights geographic variations in cesarean rates across different regions of China.
A systematic review of public health guidelines found that recommendations for limiting sugar intake are based on low-to-very-low quality evidence. The researchers suggest that while limiting sugar intake is advisable, the degree and alternatives remain unclear.
Researchers at UTHealth found that industrialization led to a rapid decline in vertebrate populations, with an average decline of 25% every 10 years for endangered species. Preserving ecosystems and habitats is crucial to preventing this decline.
Veterans with Iraq-Afghanistan war-related epilepsy had substantially higher mortality rates than those without the condition. After controlling for comorbid conditions, IAVs with epilepsy were about 2.6 times more likely to die during a 5-year span.
A new study found that pediatricians in the US underdiagnose hypertension and prehypertension in children aged 3 to 18 by as much as 95%, leading to inadequate treatment. The study analyzed electronic health records of over 400,000 children and revealed that only 6% of those with diagnosed hypertension received prescribed medication.
A new study compared the effectiveness of opioids and NSAIDs in treating persistent pain after car crashes, finding no significant difference in pain risk but a higher likelihood of ongoing opioid use among patients prescribed opioids.
Amit X. Garg, a renowned nephrologist, is being honored by the American Society of Nephrology for his groundbreaking research on living kidney donation and kidney health analytics. His work has led to improved understanding and treatment of kidney diseases, including E. coli O157:H7 poisoning and acute kidney injury.
Researchers found a combination of immunotherapy options improves overall survival and lowers the risk of life-threatening events in late-stage melanoma patients. PD-1 inhibitors were associated with the lowest risk of life-threatening events, making them a promising first-line therapy option.
Researchers compared the effectiveness of fMRI and polygraph tests in detecting deception, finding that fMRI outperformed polygraph with up to 90% accuracy. The study suggests that fMRI may be a valuable tool in criminal proceedings, particularly when used in sequence with polygraph.
A new study translates wearable sensor data into empirically-verified measures of health risks and longevity, offering significant financial value to third parties. The researchers developed the Better Life and Income Scoring System (BLISS score), which combines physical activity data with personal financial information.
A study found that breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy with high genetic susceptibility had the highest risk of VTE. The one-year cumulative incidence of VTE was 9.5% in these patients, compared to 1.3% in those without high genetic susceptibility.
The Wellcome Trust is transferring two major research programs, DELTAS Africa and H3Africa, to AESA's Alliance for Accelerating Excellence in Science in Africa, aiming to increase Africa-led research and address pressing health challenges. This shift reflects a significant change in international funding partnerships with African insti...
The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group is recruiting medical facilities for the Tomosynthesis Mammography Imaging Screening Trial (TMIST), a large-scale breast cancer screening trial comparing digital breast tomosynthesis with standard digital mammography. The study aims to provide a modern basis for continued use of mammography.
Researchers have broken down lung cancer into distinct subtypes with unique molecular profiles, suggesting potential for personalized therapies. The study identifies specific subsets of cancer cells that may be responsive to immunotherapy, a promising approach for treating the disease.
African American men have higher incidence and mortality rates of prostate cancer due to genetic factors and socioeconomic disparities. MNX1 is a new oncogene identified as more active in African American prostate cancer, which can lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment approaches.
A study published in PLOS Genetics identified two genetic variations linked to age-related hearing impairment, shedding light on the disorder's biological basis. The research used a large cohort of patients' electronic medical records and genome sequences to discover these genetic links.
Researchers developed a new international guideline to standardize clinical trial results reporting, increasing the efficiency and value of global research. The COS-STAR statement provides a checklist of 18 essential items for transparent and complete reporting in Core Outcome Set studies.
A multi-country randomized controlled trial will assess the impact of cleaner burning cooking stoves on household air pollution and health in four low- and medium-income countries. The study aims to provide compelling evidence for national and global policies to reduce household air pollution among vulnerable populations.
Three different candidate Zika vaccines have been found to protect rhesus monkeys against the disease in trials. The vaccines, tested in preclinical trials, were found to be effective at warding off infection by the Zika virus strain circulating in Brazil and Puerto Rico.
Researchers found that Zika virus infection provides excellent protection against reinfection, offering potential relief from future epidemics. The study also revealed the virus remains in some tissues for an extended period, but clears from blood plasma and urine within 10 days.
A recent NIH-funded study found that all adults, regardless of age, should be mindful of risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The study, led by George Howard, discovered that nearly half of participants developed high blood pressure during a 10-year follow-up, highlighting the importance of prevention efforts across the lifespan.
A study by Georgia State University found that college-educated smokers are more likely to use e-cigarettes as a tool to quit smoking. The survey of over 1,200 smokers revealed that those with higher education levels were more intent on quitting and attempting to stop smoking in the past year.
A team of Duke scientists used DNA-sequencing and computerized biology to study the glucocorticoid receptor's signaling system. They found that only 13% of binding sites directly respond to hormones, while the remaining 87% act as clusters that amplify signals.
A recent study published in Journal of Water and Health suggests that supplemental water fluoridation may be a contributing factor to rising type 2 diabetes rates in the United States. The study used mathematical models to analyze publicly available data on fluoride water levels and diabetes incidence rates across 22 states.
Mesenchymal stem cells exhibit significant cell-to-cell variation in their capacity to survive upon implantation. The Tulane professor's three-year project aims to gain insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying this variation, with the goal of improving survival rates and advancing regenerative therapies.
The study compared seven ventilation strategies and found that LISA, a non-invasive ventilation strategy, was the most effective in preventing death and/or chronic lung disease in preterm infants. On average, LISA resulted in 164 fewer preterm babies dying or having long-term breathing problems.
Researchers developed an algorithm called JAMMIT that uses advanced mathematics to identify patterns across multiple molecular data types. The algorithm can accurately predict which patients would benefit most from chemotherapy and combining it with immunotherapy, leading to improved clinical outcomes and reduced costs.
The Alaska Native and American Indian Peoples Health Disparities Research Center will address significant health gaps in these communities. It provides training, research opportunities and project funds to scientists working with indigenous people.
Researchers found that low UPSIT scores predicted dementia and cognitive decline in older adults, while entorhinal cortical thickness was associated with UPSIT score in those who transitioned to dementia. Odor identification testing may be useful in detecting early-stage Alzheimer's disease.
UCLA studies find that menopause speeds up cellular aging by an average of 6 percent, making women biologically older than their chronological age. Insomnia also accelerates aging, with postmenopausal women experiencing nearly two years more biological aging due to five insomnia symptoms.