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.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that HIV increases the severity of hepatitis B infections, leading to higher liver disease-related deaths among men with both conditions. The research suggests physicians may see an increase in hepatitis B-related liver disease among the 1 million people living with HIV in the US.
Patients with Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) who undergo supervised exercise programs experience improvements in blood flow, reduced systemic inflammation, and enhanced cardiovascular health. By walking on a treadmill several times a week, PAD patients can eventually reduce their leg pain and increase their walking distance.
A recent study found that hemispherectomy significantly reduces seizures in older children with Sturge-Weber syndrome, a rare disorder characterized by neurological abnormalities. The surgery was effective in more than 80% of patients, regardless of their age at operation.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine conducted a study on combined PET-CT for detecting ovarian cancer, finding that the combination showed high sensitivity (73.6%) and specificity (100%) rates. This improved detection accuracy compared to using PET scans alone.
Research reveals bilirubin's role in protecting cells from oxidative damage, potentially improving outcomes for conditions like stroke and heart attack. The study also sheds light on the paradox of bilirubin's production, suggesting it may be an evolutionary development to combat cellular stress.
Researchers discovered that mice without the myostatin gene had less physical damage to their muscles and were stronger than those with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Blocking the myostatin protein may help delay progression or improve quality of life, but more studies are needed in humans.
Researchers used digital SNP analysis to detect ovarian cancer in 87% of early-stage and 95% of late-stage patients, with high total DNA amounts found in most cancer cases. The test holds promise for improved detection in a wide range of cancers.
A new chest compression device has been shown to restore blood flow four times better than manual compressions, potentially saving more lives. Researchers tested the device on 20 pigs in cardiac arrest and found it restored vital organs with improved oxygenation.
Researchers found that high levels of C-reactive protein and low albumin are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients. The study, which followed over 1,000 patients for four months, found that these proteins can identify patients at high risk before heart events occur.
Researchers have found a possible association between IVF and an increased risk of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS), a genetic disorder that can predispose children to cancer. BWS is characterized by excessive growth and occurs in about 1 in 15,000 births, with the incidence being significantly higher among IVF-conceived babies.
Researchers found associations between altered physiologic systems and geriatric syndrome of frailty in a study of 5,888 community-dwelling individuals. The study suggests that understanding the biology of frailty can help develop interventions to better care for older adults.
Researchers found that more than 80 percent of patients experienced postoperative fevers, but most were caused by non-serious complications. The study provides valuable insights into the incidence of postoperative complications in children undergoing hemispherectomies and may lead to changes in post-operative care protocols.
Researchers found that hospitals with more critical care specialists had significantly lower ICU and hospital death rates and lengths of stay. The study estimates that this increased mortality rate reduction could save up to 162,000 potential lives annually.
A Johns Hopkins-led research team identified a control valve within heart cells that can be switched on to help the organ survive injury during a heart attack. The discovery could lead to new therapies for heart disease.
A study found that aerobic exercise did not prevent aging-related bone loss, while higher body fat, especially in the abdomen, was linked to increased bone mineral densities. Muscle strength also played a role in maintaining bone health, contrasting previous studies suggesting aerobics could have a protective effect.
The International Subarachnoid Aneurysm Trial (ISAT) study found that coiling significantly reduces death and disability from brain aneurysms. Over 2,000 patients were treated with either surgical clipping or coiling, resulting in favorable outcomes for those receiving the coils.
The program aims to seed China with genetic expertise, focusing on medical genetics and responsible use of genetic research. Trainees will receive instruction in genetic epidemiology and biostatistics, as well as opportunities for postdoctoral positions or graduate studies.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified a novel gene mutation causing Huntington's Disease-like 2 (HDL2), a condition identical to Huntington's but caused by a different mutation. The discovery provides a window into the mechanisms of brain cell death and could shed light on other neurodegenerative disorders.
The study found that older men are more likely to have sperm with genetic mutations causing Apert syndrome, which increases the risk of having a child with the disease. The scientists suggest that the number of cell divisions in making sperm plays a role in this link.
A genome-wide scanning study has identified eight genes, including RET and EDNRB, as contributing to Hirschsprung disease, a complex disorder affecting bowel function. The research used gene chips and computer software to analyze thousands of genetic variations, providing new insights into the disease's causes.
A study of 74 patients with non-classic cystic fibrosis revealed that nearly a third had no detectable changes in their CFTR genes, sparking debate about the role of epigenetics and alternative causes. The findings may lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for these patients.
A study published in Neurology found that opioid medications effectively relieve postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) pain without significant side effects, with 54% of patients preferring opiates over antidepressants. The research suggests opioids are a good alternative for patients not responding to other types of pain medications.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that nurse case management significantly improves risk factor management in patients with coronary heart disease. The program led to healthier diet and exercise patterns, as well as higher achievement of recommended cholesterol levels, compared to minimal intervention.
A new computer model suggests that regular visual inspections every five years can save lives and reduce costs compared to DNA testing or traditional Pap smears. In Thailand, where cervical cancer is a major public health concern, this low-tech screening strategy could be an effective and affordable solution.
Regular aerobic and weight-lifting activities can help diabetics control blood sugar and lower blood pressure, also providing cardiovascular benefits. Exercise training reduces total and abdominal fat, leading to improvements in insulin sensitivity, blood pressure, and blood vessel function.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine finds that Ecstasy use can cause severe brain dopamine deficits and potentially lead to parkinsonism in humans. The researchers administered MDMA to squirrel monkeys and observed significant neuronal injury.
Researchers used genome-wide scanning to uncover genetic causes of Hirschsprung disease, a complex disorder resulting from subtle gene mutations. The study identified two key genes, RET and EDNRB, which must co-exist to cause the disease, providing new insights into its underlying mechanisms.
A Johns Hopkins-led study found that delayed evaluation by a nephrologist increases mortality risk among chronic kidney disease patients. Early evaluation was associated with lower death rates, highlighting the importance of timely specialist care.
Researchers have identified a genetic link between macrophage scavenger receptor-1 (MSR1) and increased risk of prostate cancer. MSR1 mutations were found in approximately 12.5% of African American men with prostate cancer, compared to 1.8% without the disease.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have successfully created a biologic pacemaker using gene therapy in guinea pigs. The new pacemaker allows heart cells to regulate their own rhythm, potentially providing an alternative to traditional electronic pacemakers for patients at high risk of infection or with limited space for implantation.
Researchers found African-Americans are two to four times more likely to undergo lower limb amputations, with higher rates among above-knee amputations. The study highlights the need for further investigation into underlying causes and public health initiatives to alleviate excess risk of limb loss.
Studies of 39 adults born with genital ambiguity found that most were satisfied with their assigned sex and had good physical and sociological outcomes. The research suggests that families and doctors should consider individual needs when making decisions about gender assignment.
Researchers have found a link between flexible joints and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), with 60% of CFS patients exhibiting joint hypermobility. This discovery may provide insight into the development of CFS symptoms, which appear in early childhood.
Researchers found that knocking out enzymes adds fucose to proteins, protecting the kidney from damage and inflammation. Developing drugs targeting these enzymes could lead to new therapies for conditions like heart attacks and strokes.
Scientists have discovered a new hedgehog blocker that stops medulloblastoma tumor growth and kills cancer cells in mice and human patients. The study provides hope for the development of new treatments for this deadly childhood brain cancer.