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Mayo Clinic


MicroRNAs make for safer cancer treatments

Mayo Clinic researchers have discovered a way to control oncolytic viruses using microRNAs, which can restrict them to specific tissues and make them safer for use in cancer therapy. This discovery could lead to new methods of making safer vaccines.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalNature Medicine·DateOct 26, 2008

Rheumatoid arthritis rising among women

Rheumatoid arthritis incidence and prevalence are on the rise among women in the US, with a 54% increase in female cases from 36 to 54 per 100,000 annually, according to a Mayo Clinic study. Researchers believe an environmental factor may be contributing to this trend, which could indicate a need for further research.

Best treatment determined for childhood eye problem

Convergence insufficiency affects children's ability to focus and align their eyes while viewing objects up close, impacting reading and concentration. Researchers discovered that structured therapy sessions in a doctor's office and reinforcement eye exercises at home improve vision faster than home-based therapies alone. The study, sp...

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalArchives of Ophthalmology·DateOct 13, 2008

Mayo Clinic study tackles labeling errors

A Mayo Clinic study implemented a radio-frequency identification system to track biopsy specimens and automate identification. The initiative resulted in a significant reduction of specimen-labeling errors, from 765 in 2007 to 47 in 2008. The new labeling system improved safety and quality efforts in specimen management.

Genes affect weight loss drug effectiveness

A Mayo Clinic study found that obese patients with specific genetic markers experienced greater weight loss when taking the medication sibutramine. Patients who lacked these genetic factors showed little to no weight loss during the 12-week trial.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateOct 1, 2008

Mayo Clinic discovery may help diabetic gastric problem

Researchers have found a potential solution for diabetic gastroparesis by increasing production of a key molecule in the digestive process. The study, published in Gastroenterology, shows that a red blood cell derivative can restore normal gastric emptying and improve glucose control.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateSep 25, 2008

Stem cell regeneration repairs congenital heart defect

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have successfully used stem cells to regenerate heart tissue and repair dilated cardiomyopathy, a genetic defect. The treatment improved heart performance, synchronized electrical impulses, and halted deterioration in genetically altered mice with heritable dilated cardiomyopathy.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalStem Cells·DateSep 11, 2008

Researchers examine safety of Internet prescriber service providing erectile dysfunction medications

Researchers compared online prescribing and traditional physician consultation for treating erectile dysfunction, finding that the online system outperformed in patient education and prescription appropriateness. The study concludes that a well-regulated Internet prescriber service can be comparable to traditional medical practice.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalMayo Clinic Proceedings·DateAug 12, 2008

Device blocking stomach nerve signals shows promise in obesity

A new implantable device blocks stomach nerve signals, resulting in significant weight loss in obese participants. The study found that a quarter of patients lost over 25% of their excess weight and three patients lost more than 30%. A follow-up double-blinded study will be conducted to assess the device's true effectiveness.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalSurgery·DateJun 26, 2008

Mayo researchers discover how measles virus spreads (in its host)

Researchers found that the measles virus can replicate only in immune cells, causing disease in monkeys and potentially improving cancer therapy efficacy. The study's findings challenge traditional textbook assumptions about how the virus spreads, paving the way for more effective vaccines and treatments.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateJun 20, 2008

Mayo Clinic: Heart patients fare better in 3-year program

Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that heart patients who met regularly with cardiac 'disease managers' for three years had better control of risk factors and lower death rates. The approach demonstrated clear clinical benefits, including improved cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and medication compliance.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalJournal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention·DateJun 4, 2008

Adding epratuzumab to standard therapy

A study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting found that adding epratuzumab to standard chemotherapy (R-CHOP) resulted in a 95% response rate and 63% disease-free survival in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The treatment was well-tolerated, but final results will be reported next year.

Mayo researchers say ECG standards should be revised for elderly

A study published in the American Journal of Geriatric Cardiology found that established ECG norms for older adults may need to be revised. The research team analyzed over 700 patient readings and discovered that average cutoffs for measuring ECG intervals were greater than current norms, particularly in men.

SourceMayo Clinic·JournalThe American Journal of Geriatric Cardiology·DateMar 14, 2008