A study published in the Journal of Vascular Interventional Radiology suggests that percutaneous radiofrequency ablation can be an effective treatment for osteoid osteomas, with all eight patients achieving complete pain relief. The use of CT fluoroscopy enhanced imaging guidance improved precision and success rates.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins will pursue novel biological therapies to prevent abnormal heart rhythms and sudden death in patients recovering from heart attacks. They will also use modern imaging techniques to define the features of the heart posing the greatest risk for life-threatening arrhythmias.
Researchers discovered mutations in 14 tyrosine kinase genes, which play key roles in controlling cell growth and differentiation. These findings open the door to individualized treatment approaches for colorectal cancer, allowing for personalized therapeutics tailored to each patient's tumor DNA.
A recent study from Johns Hopkins Medicine suggests that cognitive decline immediately after coronary artery bypass surgery is transient and reversible. The researchers tested patients before and after surgery using various neuropsychological tests to measure memory and other cognitive abilities.
Researchers created a set of tools to evaluate disaster drills in four parts: command and control, out-of-hospital care, in-hospital care, and system integration. The methods are designed to be practical for disaster planners worldwide, particularly in developing countries disproportionately affected by disasters.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has found a link between hyperglycemia and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in premature infants. Infants with ROP had higher daily blood sugar levels compared to healthy peers, with increased risk almost doubling for each 10 mg/dl increase in average monthly glucose.
Researchers found that individuals with at least one copy of the klotho gene variant KL-VS are almost twice as likely to have undetected atherosclerosis. Lifestyle changes can modify this risk, suggesting genetic testing may be considered.
Researchers found 50% more sodium in malignant lesions than normal brain tissue, indicating increased tumor malignancy. The technique improves identification of cancer cells through noninvasive analysis of tumor metabolism and physiology.
The editorial emphasizes that providing affordable drugs is insufficient to combat HIV in the developing world. Comprehensive medical care, including training for healthcare workers and laboratory tests, must also be included to make Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) effective.
Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have developed a new technique for creating targeted, antigen-specific immune cells in the lab. The method uses artificial antigen-presenting cells (aAPCs) to convert generic immune cells into effective disease-fighters.
A study of over 800 adults found that combining weight loss, improved exercise, and a low-salt diet significantly lowers blood pressure. The participants who received comprehensive lifestyle modification had the best results, with an average reduction of 11mmHg in systolic and 6.4mmHg in diastolic blood pressure.
The structure of MEF2 protein reveals key to its function in regulating genes across various cell types, including muscle, brain, and immune cells. By altering the protein's binding groove, researchers may uncover new targets for therapeutic strategies.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a BRAF gene mutation in 68% of papillary thyroid cancers, which can be challenging to distinguish from benign conditions. This mutation causes continuous cell growth and division, leading to cancer.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins discovered a compound that doubles the hearts' ability to contract and relax, stimulating the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide. This improvement is particularly notable in failing hearts, without any reported toxicity.
A new imaging technique combining transesophageal magnetic resonance (TE MRI) with standard cardiac MRI provides better views of plaque buildup in the aorta. The combined approach revealed more detailed images of plaque thickness, area, and volume than individual techniques, showing promise for improved diagnosis.
Researchers studied nondiabetic adults with a family history of diabetes and found they were 1.4 times more likely to develop coronary artery disease. Obese individuals were also at higher risk, defined by a body-mass index greater than 30, with a 2.2 times increased risk compared to normal weight individuals.
Researchers studied 65 families with bipolar disorder and found strong genetic 'linkage' to specific regions on chromosomes 13 and 22, suggesting common genes contributing to both bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. These overlap genes may explain why the same anti-psychotic medications are effective treatments for both diseases.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that consuming more saturated fats can lead to higher amounts of visceral fat, which is linked to a stronger risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. A diet low in saturated fat and high in polyunsaturated fat, such as the Mediterranean diet, may help reduce visceral fat.
Scientists used RNA interference to identify four new genes involved in passing along Hedgehog's signal in fruit fly cells. The study suggests that human versions of these genes may be involved in diseases characteristic of abnormal Hedgehog activity, including birth defects and cancers.
A study at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that IVF births are associated with a higher incidence of exstrophy-epispadias complex, a rare birth defect affecting the bladder, pelvic bones, and genitals. Researchers estimate the risk is up to 7.3 times more common in IVF children compared to the general population.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have found a new method for growing human embryonic stem cells using human marrow stromal cells, eliminating the need for mouse cells as feeders. This breakthrough could potentially lead to significant advancements in treating conditions like Parkinson's disease and diabetes.
A new study identifies a genetic marker in blood samples that may indicate an increased risk of colon cancer. The researchers found that individuals with a family history of colon cancer, polyps, or personal history of the disease were more likely to have this marker in their blood.
Researchers found that genistein exposure during pregnancy and lactation can lead to smaller testes and larger prostates in male offspring, as well as lower testosterone levels and decreased fertility. The study suggests potential long-term detrimental effects on male reproductive development, warranting further investigation.
Scientists have improved understanding of TGF-beta's regulation in Marfan syndrome by studying mice with genetic mutations. They found that blocking TGF-beta activity during development may prevent features of the disorder, including emphysema and aortic rupture.
Researchers genetically altered a protein to prevent phosphorylation, resulting in mice that could learn but not remember spatial locations. This discovery sheds light on the role of neuronal plasticity in learning and memory.
A study published in The Lancet found that same-day testing and treatment led to high rates of compliance with recommended treatment, with 83.2% returning for a follow-up visit. The 'one-stop' approach also improved patient satisfaction, with nearly 98% saying the treatment was equal to or better than expected.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a primitive cellular pathway, Sonic Hedgehog, that stays active in some lung cancers. The pathway's activation leads to excessive cell growth and cancer. Researchers are testing drugs on mice and plan to explore human clinical trials in the future.
A 12-week study in Baltimore evaluated nevirapine for HIV prevention in adults at high risk, showing no serious side effects or new infections. The researchers discovered that the three lower doses of nevirapine provided sufficient blood levels to potentially prevent HIV infection.
A recent study found that medical consent forms are typically written at a 10th-grade reading level, despite an estimated one in two American adults struggling with eighth-grade level literacy. To improve readability, researchers suggest using simpler language and alternative methods like multimedia presentations.
New research reveals nucleus is more than just a bag of chromosomes, with key findings including the discovery of rope-like proteins called lamins linked to human diseases. The study also sheds light on the orchestrated process of nuclear breakdown during cell division.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have created SNOMAD and DRAGON to help decipher the complex patterns of gene activity in brain tissue. By applying these tools to microarray data from conditions like Down syndrome, they aim to identify genes involved in causing problems.
A new study found that teenage girls with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are significantly more worried about their future fertility compared to healthy age-mates. The study also revealed that PCOS patients have lower scores in quality of life questionnaire categories, particularly self-esteem and mental health.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have determined the 3D structure of the HER2 breast cancer receptor, shedding light on its interactions with the Herceptin antibody. The findings could lead to the design of more effective drugs for treating breast cancer.
A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials found that pacemaker therapy reduced death from progressive heart failure by 51% and hospitalizations by 29%. The device range in cost $20,000 to $50,000 and improves quality of life for heart failure patients.
Researchers found that mice with a specific gene (Hic1) developed cancers at an older age, depending on their sex. Female mice developed lymphomas and sarcomas, while male mice developed epithelial cancers. The study provides evidence of epigenetic problems leading to cancer in mice.
A recent study at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that babies born with low amniotic fluid at 37 weeks' gestation have normal birth weights and health, challenging conventional wisdom. The study of 262 women showed no significant differences in birth outcomes between those with low and normal amounts of amniotic fluid.
A recent study found that up to 63% of pediatric practices in the Washington D.C. area contradict their own policies on confidential care for adolescents when answering phone calls.
Researchers create device that measures muscle cell forces by measuring displacement of individual needles. The study reveals the relationship between cell shape and contraction force, as well as resolving conflicting scientific reports on cellular forces.
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that medical devices used in procedures like bronchoalveolar lavage can pose a risk of contamination, leading to infections and even fatalities. The study suggests implementing federal standards for recall notices sent to physicians who use the devices.
China's blood banking system is fragmenting due to rural-urban differences and has a scarcity of volunteer donors, leading to paid donations and illegal activities. Improvements are needed to adopt a volunteer-donor-only system, increasing education and training for those involved in blood collection and transfusion.
Researchers have discovered that a specific subset of retinal ganglion cells, containing the protein melanopsin, play a vital role in detecting light and controlling the pupil's response. Without melanopsin, the pupil fails to constrict fully in bright light.
A recent study found that annual whole-body CT scanning for lung cancer screening may not be effective in saving lives, as the costs outweigh the benefits. The researchers estimated that only smokers who started quitting at age 55-65 saw significant cost-effectiveness in screening.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Lupus Center and Kimmel Cancer Center found that high-dose intravenous cyclophosphamide can lead to complete responses and partial responses in lupus patients who failed standard therapy. The treatment also had fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments.
A study published in the American Journal of Transplantation found that 94% of compliant pediatric patients were recommended for transplant, compared to 62% of non-compliant patients. The researchers also discovered that children from more educated parents were more likely to be referred for transplantation.
Researchers discovered that sirtuins, a family of proteins controlling cellular respiration, may play a crucial role in extending lifespan. Sirtuins modify an enzyme to convert acetate into acetyl-CoA, a key component of energy production.
A survey of over 900 parents found that allowing children to play with toy guns is more common among males, Caucasians, older children, and mothers. Parents' attitudes on toy gun play were influenced by the child's age, parent's gender, and family's racial background.
Hopkins researchers identify connexin 43 gene as the cause of oculodentodigital dysplasia, a disorder affecting multiple body systems. The study reveals changes in the gene's sequence are responsible for the condition.
Cell division is necessary for fat cells to mature, according to a new study. The researchers found that primitive fat cells need to divide at least twice before they can store fat, and that interfering with this process could prevent the formation of new fat cells.
A new study has found that chicken pox vaccine is safe and effective for children with chronic kidney disease. The study shows that vaccination can prevent severe complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation in these patients.
Researchers discovered that the Id1 gene regulates angiogenesis in melanoma, breast, head and neck, brain, cervical, prostate, pancreatic, and testicular cancers by reducing thrombospondin-1 production. This reduction leads to increased tumor blood vessel formation.