A small study of 20 surgeons found that most err on the side of operating despite perceived futility of treatment due to internal pride and pressure from patients' families. The researchers highlight the need for objective tools to assess risk and inform confident decision-making.
Researchers develop experimental drug NLY01 that slows Parkinson's disease progression in mice by blocking degradation of brain cells and protecting nerve cells. The drug, similar to diabetes treatments, may offer a new treatment option for the progressive disorder.
A study of over 1,500 participants found that rising chronic inflammation in middle age was associated with brain damage and poor cognition. Researchers suggest reducing inflammation through lifestyle changes may help prevent or delay dementia.
A new computer algorithm developed by Johns Hopkins researchers can predict when cancer cells will develop resistance to treatment. The Coordinate Gene Activity in Pattern Sets (CoGAPS) algorithm uses in vitro cell models and computational analysis to track molecular changes over time.
A study investigating combination checkpoint immunotherapy in lethal advanced prostate cancer revealed that genetic subsets of patients with AR-V7+ prostate cancer may benefit from treatment. One-quarter of patients achieved an objective response, and at least two remain alive for over 18 months.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered that combining chemical compounds to activate specific nerve cell receptors may reduce the risk of opioid tolerance and side effects by minimizing the amount of opioids needed. The study used mice models, suggesting that this approach could lead to a lower-risk pain treatment option.
Researchers found that lower than normal blood levels of vitamin D were associated with an increased risk of early signs of interstitial lung disease, a condition that can lead to progressive lung damage. Vitamin D deficiency was linked to larger volumes of damaged lung tissue and abnormalities on full lung scans.
A team of biologists and civil engineers developed the first 3D computer model to capture breast duct development, using science and engineering principles to predict cellular forces. The model reveals that cells migrate by pulling forward and pushing backward, forming a teardrop shape.
Researchers found that prurigo nodularis disproportionately affects African-Americans, particularly between ages 50 and 65. The study also identified associations with HIV infection, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and clinical depression.
A study published in The American Surgeon found that ambulatory surgical centers who publicly listed their prices saw increased patient volume and revenue. Five of the six centers reported a 30-50% increase in revenue and patient satisfaction after implementing price transparency.
A Johns Hopkins study analyzed 250 user reviews and found that high star ratings do not guarantee medical accuracy. Despite disclaimers warning users against relying on the app for medical monitoring, diagnosis, or treatment effectiveness, many people continued to use it for these purposes.
A recent study suggests that metformin is safe for most adults with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). The research, conducted by Johns Hopkins Medicine, found no association between metformin use and acidosis in patients with mild to moderate CKD. However, the risk of acidosis increased significantly among patients with severe...
A Johns Hopkins study found that patients undergoing colonoscopies and upper-GI endoscopies at US outpatient specialty centers face a higher risk of bacterial infections than previously believed. The research revealed that infection rates vary widely among facilities, with some ASCs experiencing rates up to 100 times higher than expected.
Researchers have discovered a previously overlooked connection between neurons in two distinct areas of the mammalian brain that control the sense of touch. In mice, layer 4 neurons in the S2 region extended their axons beyond their local area to reach neurons in the S1 region, suggesting a link between movement and sensation.
A study of over 2,800 postmenopausal women found that a higher proportion of male to female sex hormones was associated with a significant increase in cardiovascular disease risk. The researchers suggest that having a more male-like hormone profile may affect heart disease risk independent of other risk factors.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that US citizen children whose mothers are eligible for DACA are more likely to participate in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). The study analyzed data from nearly 2,000 children and their mothers, revealing a significant increase in WIC ...
A study of over 7,000 low-income urban mothers found that fewer than 5% started folic acid supplementation before pregnancy. Despite the high risk of neural tube defects, many women did not take prenatal vitamins preconception or during pregnancy. The research team also found that black and Hispanic mothers had lower plasma folate conc...
A special section in Perspectives in Biology and Medicine examines the newest and most complex issues surrounding stem cells. The issue includes essays on the potential impacts of using a person's own stem cells on patients, health-care systems, and the public trust in science and medicine.
A small study of adults with pancreatic cancer reveals that patients with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations have poorer overall survival rates compared to those without the mutations. However, those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 had better survival rates with platinum-based chemotherapy.
A study of over 11,000 American adults found that increasing physical activity to recommended levels over six years in middle age significantly decreases the risk of heart failure. Conversely, a decrease in physical activity during this period is linked to an increased risk of the disorder.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine and National Tsing Hua University developed a method to rapidly manipulate cilia's chemical signaling pathways, which can lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating human diseases. The technique, called STRIP, enables precise control over microtubule modifications in living cells.
A new 'scoring' system developed by Johns Hopkins Medicine enhances the prediction of survival in people with colorectal cancers that have spread to the liver. The system includes traditional Fong indicators plus genetic and morphological evaluation (GAME) factors, which outperform the existing Fong system in predicting patient outcomes.
A Johns Hopkins study found that physicians' use of stigmatizing language in medical records can lead to negative attitudes towards patients and less aggressive pain management. The study suggests that neutral language in medical records can perpetuate bias among physicians.
Researchers have identified protein clumping in the hearts of mice and people with heart failure, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions. The team used non-invasive PET scans to visualize the clumps, which could lead to advances in monitoring disease progression and testing new therapies.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have made significant discoveries about the cerebellum's role in learning and prediction. By studying monkey brains, they found that Purkinje cells communicate through simple spikes (predictions) and complex spikes (error feedback), organizing into small groups to learn together.
A review of nearly 300 studies on obesity policies found that natural experiments have strengths, but need better standards. Researchers recommend stronger study designs and standardized reporting methods to identify effective policies.
A new study led by Johns Hopkins researchers found that only a small percentage of patients use nonopioid pain relievers to supplement opioid pain management after spine and joint surgery. Patients also improperly store and dispose of opioids.
A smartphone video-based app substitutes for in-person daily visits required for tuberculosis treatment, with patients showing similar adherence rates as traditional DOT. The app offers a more private and cost-effective option for monitoring medication intake, but further research is needed to assess its full impact.
A study of nearly 6,000 Americans found that mid-life chronic inflammation may be linked to an increased risk of frailty and overall poorer health decades later. Having high levels of inflammation in middle age was associated with a 39% higher odds of frailty approximately 24 years later.
Researchers found that children with asthma often miss their daily medication due to barriers such as forgetfulness and running out of medication. The study suggests that improving communication among patients, families, and pediatric clinicians is crucial to ensure consistent use of daily anti-inflammatory medication.
Researchers have developed a concept to preferentially inhibit pain-transmitting neurons using direct electrical current. The new approach could reduce side effects of conventional devices, allowing for more precise targeting of pain-transmitting nerve cells.
A multicenter database study of adults undergoing spinal deformity surgery found that daily opioid users had longer ICU stays and more severe postop disability compared to non-opioid users. The study highlights the need for preoperative counseling and alternative pain management strategies for patients at risk of daily narcotic use.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine analysis shows that trauma patients are four times more likely to die from gunshot wounds and nearly nine times more likely to die from stab wounds before getting to a trauma center. The increased prehospital mortality suggests that violence is intensifying.
A new drug treatment has shown major tumor responses in early stage lung cancer patients before surgery, resulting in fewer relapses. The study found that providing the anti-PD-1 drug nivolumab before surgery increased anti-tumor T-cells that remained after the tumor was removed.
Researchers found that adding trastuzumab to chemotherapy regimen for women with uterine serous carcinoma significantly increased progression-free survival time, from an average of eight months to 12.6 months. The treatment showed promise in reducing tumor growth and improving overall survival.
A mouse study found that metformin blocks symptoms of nicotine withdrawal in rodents, eliminating anxiety and negative effects. The diabetes drug appears to activate AMPK, a pathway stimulated by chronic nicotine use, reducing withdrawal symptoms.
Geneticist Andrew Feinberg highlights the importance of combining epigenetics and genetics research to understand the impact of environmental exposures on human health. He argues that epigenetics can provide valuable insights into gene expression and its relationship with disease.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified 164 long-lasting brain proteins in mice that outlast neighboring proteins by weeks and months. These stable proteins may play a crucial role in governing long-term memory and learning, as well as loss of memory, in all mammals, including humans.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the underlying biology behind pulmonary hypertension. By studying endothelial cells, they discovered that KLF15 protects these cells from damage caused by low oxygen levels, which can lead to blood vessel damage and progression of the disease.
Johns Hopkins surgeons develop a modified muscle transplant operation that restores wide and even smiles to selected patients with one-sided facial muscle paralysis. The procedure, published in JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, shows improvements in smile function, gum exposure, and eye wrinkles.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a non-invasive test called UroSEEK, which uses urine samples to detect DNA mutations associated with bladder cancer. The test significantly enhances early detection for patients at risk and surveillance of those who have already been treated. When combined with cytology, the sensitiv...
Researchers developed a new screening test for endometrial and ovarian cancers using cervical fluid samples from routine Pap tests. The test, called PapSEEK, detected cancer cells in 81% of endometrial and 33% of ovarian cancers, with improved sensitivity when using different sampling methods.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that 22% of patients tested positive for HIV, including 6% newly diagnosed, in a South African emergency department. The study suggests that emergency departments can play a key role in identifying undiagnosed HIV cases.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that limiting first-year medical residents to 16-hour work shifts improves their satisfaction with training and work-life balance. However, this approach has no impact on interns' activity, test scores, or educational outcomes.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals a significant racial and ethnic disparity in Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) infection rates in the US population. TV infection disproportionately affects black individuals, with higher prevalence rates among black males and females, particularly those living below poverty level.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have uncovered a link between a genetic mutation in the GBA1 gene and the formation of fatty plaques in the brain that contribute to Parkinson's disease. The study found that changes in the mixture of fatty molecules cause protein pieces to stick together, forming 'dead zones' in the brain.
Researchers found that mobile phone reminders linked with incentives boosted immunization rates from 33% to 50% in a rural Indian village. The study used special software and GPS technology to track caregiver and child information, and delivered automated reminders to participants' mobile phones with incentives of free talk time minutes.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins researchers found previously known skin itch receptors in the airways of mice, which appear to contribute to bronchoconstriction and airway hypersensitivity. The discovery may be a promising new target for developing drug therapies for asthma and other respiratory disorders.
A biochemical pathway in the Golgi apparatus helps cells counter oxidative stress, and researchers found it can be activated by a drug called monensin, which may protect cells against Huntington's disease.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine provides a long-awaited baseline measure of the rate of progression of pelvic organ prolapse. The research found that pelvic organ prolapse progresses slowly, with women who gave birth vaginally being about five years ahead in progression compared to those who delivered by Caesarean section.