A team of scientists at the University of Alberta has discovered a protein marker, PDGFRA, that can help diagnose and treat aggressive papillary thyroid cancer. This finding could lead to more targeted treatments and reduce the need for unnecessary surgeries.
A new mobile application, DentaCom, captures and transmits images of dental emergencies to provide dentists with the information needed to make decisions. The app guides individuals through a series of questions, allowing them to complete a guided report and take photos within four minutes.
A new study published in CMAJ found no correlation between the day of the week elective surgery is performed and patient risk of death. The researchers analyzed data from 402,899 procedures over 10 years, including variations in surgeon experience and post-surgical care on weekends.
A new study identifies a previously unknown 'off-switch' for cancer based on the protein TMX1, which can slow down tumor growth and promote resistance to cell death mechanisms. This breakthrough offers hope for developing new therapeutic approaches and improving chemotherapy efficiency.
Scientists at the University of Alberta have identified the structure of the infectious prion protein, a misfolded protein causing BSE, Chronic Wasting Disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease. The breakthrough study uses electron cryomicroscopy technology to reveal how infectious prions replicate and propagate.
A $5,000 grant will support a school-wide program to educate patients about self-oral cancer screening. The program, led by Dr. Kitrina Cordell, aims to improve early detection and survival rates for oral cancers.
A systematic review of existing research suggests that physical activity could divert attention away from addiction, build confidence, and improve mood. The study aims to provide practical information on the effectiveness of physical activity as an alternative approach to treating alcohol and substance use disorders.
A six-year California study by University of the Pacific demonstrates that virtual dental homes are a safe and effective way to bring care to people who lack it. The approach uses telehealth technology to link specially trained dental hygienists in the community with dentists in clinics.
A Canadian study discovered that a specific kind of bile acid can prevent cardiac fibrosis, a condition leading to heart failure. Researchers are now exploring the therapeutic effect in humans and aiming to understand the molecular mechanisms behind this breakthrough.
A recent study found that 72% of children harbor at least one strain of Streptococcus mutans not found in any cohabiting family members. The research suggests that child-to-child transmission is a significant route of infection, particularly among African-American and low-socioeconomic groups.
A study by University of Minnesota researchers has identified distinct structural features among seven types of retroviruses, including HIV and HTLV-1. The findings could inform the development of new antiviral treatments and vaccines for various diseases caused by these viruses.
Researchers at New York University are investigating a novel, non-viral gene delivery method for treating oral cancer pain. The method has shown promise in preclinical studies, with a significant reduction in cancer pain and minimal cytotoxicity.
A historic $54.5M donation from hospital foundations will propel women's and children's health research, improving outcomes through peer-reviewed grants, researcher recruitment, and incubator services. The University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry is a key partner in this transformative gift.
A recent review by University of Alberta researchers found little evidence to support the benefits of vitamin D supplementation for various health conditions. Strongest effects were seen in reducing falls and fractures among the elderly. Moderate supplementation is unlikely to cause harm but will not lead to significant health benefits.
A recent study found that mothers who consumed more fruit during pregnancy gave birth to children with better cognitive development. The study, led by University of Alberta researcher Piush Mandhane, discovered that increased prenatal fruit intake was associated with higher IQ scores in one-year-old infants.
The NYU College of Dentistry has received a $1.6 million NIH grant to investigate the impact of e-cigarette aerosol mixtures on oral health. Researchers will examine the modulation of the oral microenvironment by e-cig aerosols and assess periodontal disease risk.
Researchers used dentistry techniques to analyze fossil and modern teeth, finding similarities between ancient walruses and modern pinnipeds. The findings suggest that the ancient walrus was unlikely to feed on large prey, contradicting previous claims of a 'killer walrus' diet.
The four-week intervention program significantly reduces psychological impacts of child sexual abuse, with a 25% reduction in PTSD scores and fewer children experiencing depression and anxiety. The Be Brave Ranch offers comprehensive treatment to child survivors, providing individual and group therapies alongside peer support.
Researchers found that cancer cells can regulate the body's lipid metabolism to increase production of lipids. Minimizing liver production of LDL can deprive tumors of their constant supply and reduce growth. The study aims to test existing medications for hypercholesterolemia on patients undergoing cancer treatment.
A University of Alberta researcher has been awarded a $2.1 million grant to study the molecular pathways of cancer therapies causing heart complications. The goal is to develop new, novel therapies to prevent cardiotoxicity while maintaining cancer treatment effectiveness.
Researchers have identified a new strain of bacteria A12 that can help neutralize acid and kill Streptococcus mutans, a harmful type of streptococcal bacteria. This discovery may lead to the development of a probiotic supplement to prevent cavities.
Researchers found that Porphyromonas gingivalis is present in 61% of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), a type of esophageal cancer. The bacteria was only detected in 12% of tissues adjacent to the cancerous cells, suggesting it may be a risk factor for ESCC.
Researchers will test peripherally-restricted cannabinoids (PRCBs) to alleviate oral cancer and chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain symptoms. The five-year study aims to determine the antitumor potential of PRCBs, their effectiveness against cancer pain, and potential tolerance development.
Researchers will analyze thousands of patient records to assess posterior composite restorations and root-canal procedures, exploring data integration challenges. The goal is to improve oral health care nationwide by closing the gap between data acquisition and use in clinical practice.
Researchers at UAlberta have developed a new microscope technology that allows them to observe particles in a living yeast cell and track the route of RNA transport from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. This breakthrough finding has significant implications for medical advances and understanding of cellular biology.
Researchers at Oregon State University have made promising findings about the use of bioactive glass in composite tooth fillings, showing a significant reduction in bacterial penetration. The study suggests that bioactive glass could help slow down secondary tooth decay and provide minerals to replace those lost due to tooth decay.
Researchers found that flaviviruses target peroxisomes to subvert the body's early antiviral defenses. The degradation of protein Pex19 leads to a loss of interferon production, making cells more vulnerable to viral infection.
Researchers found that soaking islet cells in Anti-aging Glycopeptide (AAGP) protects them from tacrolimus, a toxic drug commonly used during transplants. This allows for fewer cells to be used, potentially treating more patients with the Edmonton Protocol.
A University of Sydney study found that 'no-drill' dentistry can stop and reverse tooth decay without traditional fillings. The Caries Management System (CMS) reduces decay risk and need for fillings by 30-50%, partnering patients with dentists for successful treatment.
Scientists create virtual tumors to test drug treatments, achieving an 85-86% correlation with lab results. The goal is a patient-specific workflow for early diagnosis and effective treatment identification.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have discovered a potential new pathway for treating multiple sclerosis by suppressing granzyme B, an enzyme that damages nerve cells. By inhibiting granzyme B with serpina3n, they found significant reduction in MS symptoms in human cells and pre-clinical models.
A University of Alberta study found that homeless people who felt disrespected during police interactions retained negative attitudes towards police for at least two years. The study suggests teaching empathic listening and communication skills to police can improve interactions with the homeless population.
Researchers have identified a previously unknown protein that plays a vital role in DNA repair, potentially leading to new biomarkers and treatments for cancer. The discovery could help prevent errors during the repair process, reducing the risk of mutations and cancer.
Researchers developed a new material fortified with nanodiamonds that can combat bacterial infections in teeth. The nanodiamond-enhanced gutta percha showed promise in preventing residual infection and promoting healthy tooth regeneration.
Dental researchers at Plymouth University have won several prestigious awards, including the Unilever poster prize and a commendation in the Senior Colgate competition. The university's strong research culture was also recognized, with a notable increase in attention from dental research experts.
A study by University of Alberta researchers discovered a new molecular pathway that manages insulin production, offering hope for restoring the 'dimmer switch' in Type 2 diabetes. The findings suggest that this pathway can be revived to control insulin secretion from islet cells.
A recent Alberta study found that pharmacist-led care can significantly reduce blood pressure in patients, with patients receiving enhanced care being twice as likely to reach their recommended targets. The RxACTION project demonstrated the effectiveness of pharmacists' independent prescribing and active patient management.
Western University researchers have developed an artificial intelligence-powered tool that can predict a patient's response to paclitaxel and gemcitabine chemotherapy medications. The tool uses genetic analysis of tumours to identify the genetic signatures most important for determining resistance and remission for each medication. Wit...
Researchers developed coated silica nanoparticles that can deliver calcium-based compounds and antimicrobials into damaged teeth through microscopic holes. The particles overcome previous aggregation issues, showing promise for restorative treatment of sensitive teeth.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast are developing new 'inhaled antibiotics' to manage chronic lung infection in cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. The €50 million project will improve patients' quality of life by reducing lung infections and flare-ups, and overcoming antibacterial resistance.
Researchers have found that two bile acids, ursodeoxycholic acid and tauroursodeoxycholic acid, can slow the progression of prion disease when given early in the disease process. These compounds bind to proteins causing disease and prevent them from spreading.
Scientists have developed a new technology that significantly improves the ability to target specific faulty genes and edit them with healthy DNA. The method reduces off-target DNA binding, allowing researchers to produce gene editing tools that are 100 times more specific for their target sequence.
Researchers at the University of Toronto found that an abnormal immune response between neutrophils and cancer cells drives oral cancer metastasis. This connection may lead to targeted immunotherapies to shut down the abnormal response.
Scientists have developed a novel process to regenerate salivary cells using silk fibers as a framework, which could help millions in the US with dry mouth due to Sjögren's syndrome. The process has been shown to retain salivary gland cell properties and is a significant step towards developing new cell-based therapeutics.
A new study reveals that adverse childhood experiences can heighten a woman's risk of preterm birth, with the risk doubling if two or more events occur. Researchers hope to develop early interventions and predict which women are at risk of preterm birth.
A clinical trial is underway at the Royal Alexandra Hospital to test a new gene therapy treatment for choroideremia, a genetic disorder that causes inherited blindness. The treatment involves injecting a customized virus into the retina to transfer a healthy gene, with promising results already seen in early patients.
Researchers at Queen's University Belfast have developed a new treatment that prevents Klebsiella pneumonia from blocking the body's natural defences. The therapy uses an inhibitor to stop the superbug from taking over a protein in white blood cells, making it capable of killing the infection.
A recent UAlberta study reveals nearly half of severely obese patients require ICU admission and one in five do not survive after emergency surgery. The researchers attribute these findings to underlying health conditions, malnutrition, and impaired healing due to obesity.
Ibn Sina's seven rules for testing drug potency via analogy and experiment are relevant to modern clinical trials. His seventh rule emphasizes the need for human-based experimentation to avoid differences between animal and human bodies.
Researchers found traditional teaching methods focus on factual knowledge rather than visual training, leading to improved results with perceptual training modules. Undergraduate students reached expertise in identifying skin cancers and benign lesions within two hours of training.
A University of Alberta study found that youth from families receiving government subsidies and First Nations children accounted for disproportionately high rates of self-harming behavior at Alberta's emergency rooms. The study suggests that social determinants, such as living conditions, play a crucial role in mental health outcomes.
Researchers from USC and CHLA found that adapting dental environments to be more calming for children with autism spectrum disorder significantly reduced psychological anxiety and pain intensity. The study used sensory adaptations such as soothing music, gentle lighting, and deep-pressure hugs to create a comfortable environment.
Researchers discover TMPRSS2 gene as key player in triggering severe forms of cancer pain. The discovery could lead to targeted therapies shutting down the expression of this gene or its ability to infiltrate pain receptors.
Researchers discovered that parents of children at high risk for autism spectrum disorder reported more early concerns, particularly sensory and motor issues starting at six months. Early parental concerns can be predictive of autism diagnosis, highlighting the importance of talking to parents and taking their concerns seriously.
Researchers at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Dentistry have identified Adseverin as a key driver behind bone loss associated with periodontitis and other inflammatory diseases. The protein plays a critical role in generating larger osteoclasts, leading to rapid bone loss.
Researchers found that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) is not more effective than maintenance antidepressant medication in preventing depression relapse. However, MBCT may offer similar protection against depressive relapse for people with a history of multiple episodes, with no significant cost difference.
Researchers have developed a new technique for islet transplantation under the skin, which shows promise in reversing diabetes in preclinical models. This approach harnesses the body's natural ability to respond to a foreign body by growing new blood vessels, offering a safer and more reliable treatment option.
Lorne Tyrrell, a renowned virologist, has been awarded the 2015 Killam Prize for Health Sciences for his groundbreaking work on viral hepatitis. His research has led to the development of an effective treatment for hepatitis B and is being continued in efforts to create a vaccine for hepatitis C.
Researchers at NYU College of Dentistry are working with Rheonix, Inc. on a Phase II grant to develop an affordable point-of-care test for HIV/AIDS detection in remote areas. The test aims to detect both antibodies and viral RNA in a single specimen within under one hour.
A new study from the University of Alberta's Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry found that keeping a pain diary can have unintended consequences on patient recovery. Patients who kept diaries had slower recovery rates compared to those who did not.