A recent study published in PEDIATRICS found that morphine administered for post-operative pain in children who have undergone tonsillectomy with or without adenoidectomy can cause significant respiratory problems and potentially fatal breathing disruptions. In contrast, ibuprofen was shown to be a safe and effective alternative.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a new class of antibodies that can neutralize a wide range of influenza A viruses, paving the way for a universal flu vaccine. The vaccine would only need to be given once and could protect against all strains of flu, even when the virus mutates.
Researchers from McMaster University have identified a key hormone responsible for reduced brown fat activity in obese individuals, leading to increased risk of obesity and diabetes. Blocking the production of peripheral serotonin enhances brown fat activity, providing a potential new treatment approach.
Scientists at McMaster University have discovered that human induced pluripotent stem cells retain a memory of their original tissue type, allowing for more targeted regeneration and therapy development. This breakthrough challenges the conventional thought that any pluripotent human stem cell can be used to generate mature tissue cells.
Researchers found that minimally invasive disc surgery does not support the routine use of the procedure, as it does not improve long-term outcomes. The study suggests that conventional open discectomy surgery often provides better results for carefully selected patients.
Patients with a history of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) may be ready for urgent heart surgery sooner than previously thought, according to new research. A combination of appropriate blood screenings and therapeutic plasma exchange can help lower HIT antibody levels quickly.
A study published in CMAJ found that hospitalized patients and families prioritize discussing preferences for care, patient values, prognosis of illness, fears or concerns, and additional questions regarding care. However, these elements are infrequently discussed, leading to low concordance between preferred and prescribed goals of care.
A study conducted by McMaster University researchers found that hospitalized patients wash their hands infrequently, with rates as low as 3% when entering and leaving their rooms. The research emphasizes the importance of educating patients on hand hygiene practices to reduce the spread of infection.
A recent study by McMaster University found that only 40% of Canadians engage in exercise as a coping mechanism for stress. Younger, single, more educated, and active adults are more likely to use exercise to relieve stress.
A new class of antibiotics could be developed using the anticonvulsant drug lamotrigine, which inhibits bacterial ribosome assembly. Researchers at McMaster University discovered that lamotrigine stops ribosomes from being created in bacteria, a breakthrough in tackling antibiotic resistance.
A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that South Asians in Canada have a higher prevalence of heart disease, with rates of death from coronary artery disease being 42% for men and 29% for women. The study also highlighted the need for standardized surveillance systems to monitor non-communicable diseases a...
Researchers developed an antibody-based drug, mepolizumab, to replace steroid-based treatments for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. The new treatment has improved outcomes and reduced side effects in these patients, offering a more personalized approach to asthma care.
A recent study published in JAMA found that branded diets, such as Atkins and Weight Watchers, are effective for weight loss when adhered to. Behavioural support and exercise also play a significant role in enhancing weight loss outcomes.
A large international study found that low-income countries with lower risk factors for cardiovascular problems have higher rates of cardiovascular events and death. The quality of healthcare is crucial in reducing heart disease rates, according to the study.
A study published in Scientific Reports found that methadone treatment significantly suppresses testosterone levels in men with opioid addiction, leading to poor quality of life and erectile dysfunction. In contrast, women using methadone for addiction treatment showed no significant change in testosterone levels.
A meta-analysis review of seven randomized control trials found no short-term pain relief and limited long-term function improvement in patients with some osteoarthritis after arthroscopic knee surgery. The study suggests that non-operative treatments should be used first for middle-aged or older patients.
Daphne Maurer has spent decades studying human sensory development and brain plasticity. Her research on infants born with cataracts reveals that temporary blindness can lead to permanent visual deficits. Maurer also explores the potential of video games to improve eyesight in adults.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a fungus-derived molecule called AMA that can stop the spread of the deadly antibiotic-resistant gene NDM-1. Testing revealed that the molecule rescues carbapenem antibiotics' activity, providing a new way to combat superbugs.
A study by McMaster University researchers found that 14-month-old babies were more likely to help another person after bouncing up and down in time to music. The findings suggest that synchronous movement with others helps form social bonds between adults and infants, leading to increased altruistic behavior.
Research from McMaster University suggests a correlation between maternal use of fluoxetine during pregnancy and increased risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes in children. The study's findings raise concerns about the long-term metabolic complications in children born to women who take SSRIs during pregnancy.
Researchers discovered a specific immune response triggered by statins that impairs insulin function, increasing the risk of diabetes. Combining statins with another medication may suppress this side effect, offering potential new targets for minimizing adverse effects.
Researchers at McMaster University have successfully tested an antibody that can improve the quality of life for individuals with asthma by relieving inflammation in the lungs. The study found that blocking a specific protein in the lungs with an antibody alleviates baseline inflammation and provides resistance to allergens.
A study published in JAMA found that further imaging using positron emission tomography (PET) scans before surgery did not significantly change the surgical treatment of colorectal cancer with liver metastases. The study enrolled 404 patients and involved 21 surgeons at nine hospitals in Ontario.
A study by McMaster University found that defibrillator testing is not necessary and can cause serious complications in patients receiving ICDs. The study, involving 2,500 patients, showed those who didn't undergo the test had similar outcomes to those who did.
A team of McMaster researchers has developed a simple pill that can test water safety using a dissolving breath strip technology. The new method reduces the need for expensive lab equipment and shipping water to the lab, making it potentially life-saving for people in remote areas.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a key molecule, elafin, that could lead to new therapies for people with celiac disease. Elafin decreases the enzymatic reaction that increases the toxicity of peptides derived from gluten, protecting the intestinal lining.
Researchers clear up mystery of bowel movement, finding that segmentation motion occurs when two sets of pacemakers interact to create a specific rhythm. This discovery provides direction for developing drugs or nutrients to combat disorders like diarrhea and constipation.
Researchers uncover that two devastating plagues were caused by distinct strains of the same pathogen, which may lead to a better understanding of modern infectious disease dynamics. The study also raises questions about why a highly deadly pathogen died out and could potentially inform responses to future pandemics.
Researchers found that fever suppression increases the number of annual cases by approximately five percent, corresponding to more than 1,000 additional deaths from influenza. The study suggests that taking fever-reducing medications can actually increase the transmission of the virus.
Researchers at McMaster University have mapped the entire genome of a nearly 200-year-old sample of preserved intestine, tracing the bacterium behind a global cholera pandemic. The findings reveal that the classical strain was likely responsible for five devastating outbreaks in the 1800s and may have been more virulent.
A study of 60 people aged 45 years or older found that accelerated surgery within six hours reduced major complications by 30% compared to standard care. Faster surgery may be better for hip fractures, say researchers at McMaster University.
Researchers found that simple compression bandages are as effective as expensive daily lymphatic massages in treating breast cancer-related arm swelling, known as lymphedema. The study followed over 100 women with breast cancer and found no difference between the two treatments.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a protein called Xin that serves as a biomarker for muscle damage. Xin is only detectable after muscle injury and shows a strong correlation with the degree of damage, regardless of the cause.
Researchers at McMaster University discovered that metformin reduces harmful fat molecules in the liver, allowing insulin to work better and lower blood sugar levels. The study found that even obese mice with genetic mutations developed fatty liver and pre-diabetes.
Women prefer low-pitched voices, even if they're perceived as cheats, to attract men for brief, short-term relationships. Researchers at McMaster University discovered that masculine voices are linked to an increased likelihood of infidelity in long-term partnerships.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a novel approach to find new antibiotics by targeting the processes that bacteria use to produce essential vitamins and amino acids. The study identifies chemical compounds that block these processes, potentially providing much-needed therapies to address antibiotic drug resistance.
Researchers have developed a new tuberculosis vaccine that acts as a booster to the existing Bacille Calmette Guerin (BCG) vaccine, which is ineffective in many cases. The vaccine was tested in a phase one clinical study and showed a robust immune response in most trial participants.
Researchers from McMaster University found that pregnant women's nesting behavior is an adaptive mechanism to protect and prepare for childbirth. Women exhibit selective company choices and intense cleaning and organizing, peaking in the third trimester.
A global study led by McMaster University researchers found large differences in lung function between healthy people from different socioeconomic and geographical regions. South Asians had the lowest lung function, by 30% compared to North Americans and Europeans. The findings have important public health implications.
A global study has found that many patients don't know they have hypertension and, even if they do, too few are receiving adequate drug therapy for their hypertension. The study found 46.5% of those with hypertension were aware of the diagnosis, while blood pressure was controlled among 32.5% of those being treated.
An international study found that people in high-income countries have lower risk factors for cardiovascular disease but fewer cases of serious heart conditions. In contrast, those in low-income countries face more severe cardiovascular problems despite having fewer risk factors.
A McMaster study found that new mothers and obese individuals are more susceptible to severe influenza outcomes, despite not being considered high-risk groups. The research highlights the need for precise definition of risk factors to optimize vaccine allocation during epidemics.
A new paper aims to educate pediatricians on recognizing and responding to caregiver-fabricated illness in children, which can include physical and psychiatric symptoms, and carries significant mortality rates.
A McMaster University study published in PLOS ONE found no abnormalities in the veins of MS patients, contradicting a popular CCSVI theory. The research examined 100 MS patients and 100 healthy controls, using ultrasound and MRI to test for venous blockages.
Researchers discover human blood stem cells residing in the end of bones have highest regenerative ability, potentially improving bone marrow transplants. The discovery aims to lower donated bone marrow needs while increasing regeneration and reducing rejection rates.
Researchers at McMaster University have developed a method to measure the shape of the huntingtin protein in living cells, revealing a key clue to solving Huntington's disease. The team discovered that the mutant huntingtin protein causing disease changes shape and can be corrected with chemicals.
Researchers at McMaster University found that video conferencing in job interviews can lead to less likable candidates and lower ratings for interviewers. The study suggests that face-to-face interviews are essential for accurate assessments and positive evaluations.
A McMaster University study found that financial incentives for Ontario surgeons led to an increase in the use of laparoscopic colon cancer surgery. The research suggests that this may not result in significant improvements in patient outcomes, despite potential benefits such as shorter hospital stays and smaller visible scars.
A new conversation guide aims to improve physicians' ability to discuss end-of-life care with patients, addressing the growing need for sensitive discussions due to an aging population and chronic illness. The guide provides practical advice on identifying high-risk patients, communicating prognosis, and clarifying patient values.
Researchers found that changes in human behavior had the greatest influence on the three-wave shape of the 1918 influenza epidemic. Behavioral responses, such as avoiding large gatherings and keeping distance from others, reduced infectious contact rates when recent mortality was high.