Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found a cascade of signaling molecules that allow brief signals to last for tens of minutes, forming stronger connections in the brain. This discovery could lead to new insights into diseases like Alzheimer's and autism.
A study found that sleep deprivation leads to increased activity in brain regions assessing positive outcomes and decreased activity in those processing negative outcomes. As a result, sleep-deprived individuals are more likely to choose options with potential gains over those with potential losses.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene that governs how neurons form new connections. Without this gene, mice showed difficulty learning and didn't display typical memory ability. The study provides clues to memory and learning, potentially offering opportunities for early intervention after birth.
A new study by Duke University researchers has found that home-based physical therapy is an effective way to help stroke survivors regain mobility, with similar results to specialized locomotor training programs. The study, which compared home exercise with body-weight supported treadmill training, found that both approaches led to sig...
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that genetic mutations in brain tumors can alter their metabolism. This study found over 100 metabolites with altered concentrations in cells with the defective IDH1 or IDH2 genes, providing promising avenues for future research into new treatments.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that genetic sequencing is insufficient to understand human disease, highlighting the need for functional tests. The study used a suite of diseases called ciliopathies, which can cause various traits in patients.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered how nanoparticles from diesel exhaust damage lung airway cells, a finding that could lead to new treatments for people susceptible to airway disease. The study showed that the severity of injury depends on an individual's genetic make-up.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found a strong correlation between uric acid levels and severity of knee osteoarthritis in a study of 159 participants. The study suggests that lowering uric acid levels may slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
Researchers tested how brain network integrity relates to future cognitive decline in people with mild memory problems. They found altered patterns of brain activity in the default mode network among those who later progress to Alzheimer's disease compared to those whose memory remains intact.
A study by Duke University found that mandatory menu labeling at Taco Time locations in King County, Washington, had no effect on consumer behavior. The study suggests that detailed nutritional information may not be enough to influence the obesity epidemic unless combined with other interventions.
A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels correlate with prostate cancer progression due to a complex formed between PSA and cell surface receptor GRP78. This binding stimulates pathways promoting tumor growth, cell movement, and blocking apoptosis.
A study of 184 patients with advanced head and neck cancers found that 85% could speak normally and 63% could swallow normally after treatment. Factors such as age, smoking history, tumor location, and planned surgery were linked to poorer speech and swallowing outcomes.
Researchers at Duke Cancer Institute discover a way to prevent the development of invadopodia structures that enable cancer cells to spread. By blocking Abl and Arg kinases, they also eliminate protein function that burns through tissue, allowing cancer cells to enter new cells.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have identified a major pathway that infected cells use to root out Epstein-Barr virus infections, which can cause cancer in people with compromised immune systems. The study found that two enzymes play a critical role in mediating this response and preventing unchecked cell growth.
A new study found that imposing higher taxes on sodas and sweetened drinks would generate significant revenue but result in only minor weight loss for most households. The tax's impact varies by household income, with middle-income groups experiencing the largest reductions in calories and weight.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found evidence of epigenetics in ovarian cancer, specifically DNA methylation affecting the TGF-beta signaling pathway. This deregulation contributes to tumor growth and metastasis, highlighting a potential target for epigenetic therapies.
Incorporating ovarian cancer subtypes into screening models reduces predicted mortality rates. However, catching slower-growing cancers won't significantly impact deaths compared to more lethal tumors.
Early and abundant HIV antibodies are ineffective in blocking infection due to their inability to recognize the virus until it has invaded a healthy cell. The study reveals that the virus creates two versions of the 'Achilles heel' that different types of antibodies need to target, making effective defense challenging.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a stem cell secreted protein that improves heart muscle repair after a heart attack. The protein, sfrp2, reduces collagen layering and prevents heart failure in study rats.
Duke University Medical Center will oversee external quality assurance programs for HIV laboratories worldwide, ensuring reliable and reproducible data for treatments, under a $52.8 million NIH contract. The project aims to address global laboratory standards, tracking virus strains and assays for new therapies.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered a novel feedback mechanism controlled by the Zif protein that regulates the balance of brain stem cells. This discovery has implications for understanding neural stem cell self-renewal and may lead to new therapies against brain tumors and diseases.
A gene-silencing pathway in fungi protects their genomes from unwanted genetic mutations during mating, which could be used to develop new treatments for fungal infections. The discovery of this pathway may also provide insights into the mechanisms of fungal disease.
Researchers found that statins did not significantly reduce atherosclerosis in children with lupus, despite improving CRP and lipid levels. The study suggests that statins should not be routinely prescribed to kids with lupus, as the benefits do not outweigh the potential risks.
A study of depressed adolescents found that nearly all recovered from their depression after treatment, but nearly half relapsed within five years. Females were at significantly higher risk of another major episode than males.
Researchers can now study the mouse brain in unprecedented detail, thanks to a new atlas that provides a 3D reference point for genetics, toxicology, and drug discovery. The atlas features images with resolutions up to 21 microns, eliminating variability issues associated with conventional histology.
A consortium of researchers has designed an early phase safety trial to assess mosaic vaccines in humans. The trial aims to test the mosaic concept and potentially lead to the next generation of HIV vaccine candidates.
A study of 102,470 patients found that transfusion rates for red blood cells, plasma, and platelets varied greatly between hospitals, ranging from 0% to 92.8%. Researchers did not find a link between patient mortality rates and hospital transfusion practices.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that doctors' communication styles significantly impact patients' weight loss success. Physicians who used a more motivational and empathic approach helped patients lose an average of 3.5 pounds, while those using a judgmental style saw little change.
A new vaccine has been shown to extend survival for patients with glioblastoma, the most deadly form of brain cancer, by eliminating aggressive cancer cells carrying the EGFRvIII marker. The study found that adding the vaccine to standard therapy improved median survival time from 15 months to 26 months.
A new study at Duke University Medical Center found that nearly 30% of Americans with voice problems have never received treatment, highlighting a need for better awareness and advocacy. The study also highlights the importance of early detection and personalized treatment plans to manage chronic conditions.
Two studies found new genetic variants linked to ovarian cancer risk in the general population, particularly in women with serous ovarian cancer. The variants were more common in women with aggressive disease and may be used for closer surveillance and preventive approaches.
Scientists at Duke University Medical Center have identified a gene associated with myopia in Caucasian people, providing new hope for gene therapies. The RASGRF1 gene plays a crucial role in retinal function and visual memory consolidation, making it a promising target for treatment.
Duke University researchers identified two genes influencing susceptibility to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. The study suggests that genetic clues can help inform patient management and drug development, potentially saving lives.
A new study from Duke University Medical Center found that half of patients with advanced disease in palliative care settings don't benefit from oxygen therapy, and receiving pure oxygen or room air offers equal relief. The study suggests alternative methods, such as using a small fan, may be equally effective.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found a connection between MeCP2 protein levels and psychostimulant-induced changes in adult mouse brains. The study suggests that MeCP2 may play a role in regulating the rewarding properties of stimulant drugs, which could lead to new treatments for addiction.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center developed an experimental vaccine that stimulates an immune response against tumor growth. In a Phase I/II study, the vaccine showed promising results in patients with advanced lung, colon, breast, and pancreatic cancers.
A recent study found that departures from trial protocols were more common for earlier-enrolled patients, with queries and protocol deviations increasing as enrollment frequency decreased. Simulation programs can help address these issues prior to subject enrollment.
Duke University researchers have developed a computer program that can predict the next moves of a dangerous bacteria, such as MRSA. The algorithm identifies potential resistance mutations before testing begins, allowing for more effective drug design and potentially saving lives.
The study found that Musashi levels increased dramatically as the disease became more aggressive, suggesting it may be a target for future therapies. The researchers also discovered that blocking Musashi could inhibit blast-crisis CML by forcing immature cells to mature and differentiate.
Researchers found that men with a baseline PSA of less than 4 had a very low risk of death from prostate cancer, while those with scores of 10 or higher were 11 times more likely to die. The study suggests routine screening among healthy men with normal life expectancy can help identify high-risk patients and save lives.
A personalized approach to smoking cessation is developing, combining genetic information and smoking habits to predict effective nicotine replacement therapy. This method could increase cessation success rates by up to 25%.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center discovered that the cytokine interleukin-17 plays a significant role in disc disease and may lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches. Targeting this immune response could reduce painful inflammation and halt the evolution of arthritis.
Researchers found that statin use reduced prostate cancer recurrence by 30 percent, with higher doses associated with a greater risk reduction. Men taking higher doses of statins had a 43-50% lower risk of recurrence compared to those taking lower doses.
Scientists have identified two genetic mutations that cause metachondromatosis, a rare heritable disorder leading to bony growths, by sequencing the entire genome of one individual. The study uses whole-genome sequencing technology and classic genetic approaches to provide faster identification of Mendelian genes.
Researchers at Duke University found that cognitive ability, not age, is the key factor in predicting risky decisions. The study showed that older adults who scored higher on cognitive tests made similar economic decisions as younger adults.
A research team developed a way to study the effects of 125 mutations on 14 genes using zebrafish. They found that while mutations at one gene are responsible for the disorder, others can modify symptom severity and diversity.
A three-year study found that lab-evolved bacteria colonized better and adapted to the mouse gut, leading to a significant increase in bacterial density. The diverse bacterial population showed evolutionary adaptations, including increased resistance to cell death.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have found a new mechanism by which CD8+ T cells control HIV. The discovery highlights the antiviral activity of prothymosin-alpha, a tiny protein that stimulates interferon production to block viral replication.
A study of over 30,000 Medicare beneficiaries found that fewer than 40% received follow-up care within seven days of discharge. Patients with consistent follow-up were 15% less likely to be readmitted within 30 days. Implementing a simple follow-up system can prevent readmissions and improve patient outcomes.
Researchers found that common steroid medications can promote and protect stem cell populations, which perform tissue repair. The study suggests potential new roles for these drugs in treating conditions such as spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease, and improving wound healing.