The University of Michigan has launched a major initiative to find new ways to treat Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) thanks to a $10M gift from the Joyce and Don Massey Family Foundation. The new Emergency Critical Care Center will provide advanced care to patients with TBI, stroke, or other critical illnesses.
A new study published in JAMA found that hospital report cards had no effect on surgical safety, including death rates, complications, readmissions, and costs. The study analyzed data from over 1 million Medicare patients and suggested that reporting data back to hospitals is not enough to improve quality.
Researchers found that a protein called FADD picks up a phosphate for a specific amino acid when KRAS is active, and that blocking this process can prevent tumors from forming. A CK1-alpha inhibitor is currently being developed as a potential treatment for lung cancer caused by KRAS mutations.
Researchers have identified a novel brain pathway that produces the hormone cholecystokinin (CCK), which acts as a crucial sensor of blood glucose levels. The discovery may lead to new treatments for hypoglycemia and its side effects, particularly in patients who suffer from unawareness due to repeated bouts of low blood sugar.
A new study found that high-risk neuroblastoma cells use an efficient but erroneous DNA repair pathway, giving them a survival advantage. This alternative repair mechanism may be the target of new therapies to improve treatment options for children with neuroblastoma.
A new analysis has identified over 58,000 long non-coding RNA genes that may play a role in cancer. The study also found that one lncRNA, SChLAP1, is a potential biomarker for aggressive prostate cancer.
Researchers found a 30% relative increase in falls among older adults aged 65+, with an 8% absolute increase, from 1998 to 2010. The study suggests that the rise in reported falls may not be due to aging population demographics.
A new study reveals that a specific gene, ATDC, plays a key role in the development of pancreatic cancer by promoting tumor growth and spread. The study found that patients with early-stage pancreatic cancer have a survival rate of only 30 percent.
Researchers used next-generation sequencing techniques to analyze archived tissue samples of phyllodes tumors, identifying two genes (EGFR and IGF1R) that were amplified in malignant tumors. The study also found the gene MED12 was frequently mutated in all classifications of phyllodes tumors.
Researchers developed a new scoring system to predict graft vs. host disease (GVHD) severity in bone marrow transplant patients. The Ann Arbor GVHD score uses biomarkers to determine treatment intensity and identify patients who may not respond to standard therapy.
Preschoolers who entered Head Start overweight or obese achieved a healthier weight status by kindergarten age compared to comparison groups. The study found that Head Start's high-quality meals, physical activity opportunities, and structure may positively influence children's BMIs.
Researchers analyzed Beethoven's compositions for clues of a heart condition and found striking rhythms that reflect the irregular patterns of his cardiac arrhythmia. The study suggests that Beethoven's music could be 'musical electrocardiograms,' a readout of modern heart rhythm testing equipment.
A study published in Nature suggests that gut bacteria can utilize yeast carbohydrates, potentially supporting the development of new treatments for yeast infections and autoimmune diseases. The research identified a specific bacterium, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, with the ability to degrade complex carbohydrates in yeast cell walls.
A recent study by researchers at Michigan Medicine has uncovered a key gene involved in regulating TGF-beta receptor, explaining the paradox of cancer-promoting proteins. The identified gene, Bub1, was shown to bind to the TGF-beta receptor and promote aggressive cell growth.
A recent study found that almost three-quarters of parents transition their children to forward-facing car seats too early, with many doing so before the child is one year old. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using rear-facing car seats until age two or until the child has outgrown the weight/height limits.
Researchers discovered new gene fusions in lung cancers with worse outcomes than patients with fewer fusions. The study identified several new genetic anomalies, including those found in smokers, which could be targets for developing new treatments.
A comprehensive review of recent studies provides insight into the causes and consequences of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), offering doctors and patients actionable advice. The guide highlights the importance of aerobic exercise, mental activity, social engagement, and stroke prevention in reducing MCI progression.
According to a Michigan Medicine study, many parents struggle to believe their children can manage their own health care at age 18. The National Poll on Children's Health found that 69% of parents think adolescents should stop seeing child-focused providers by this age. However, only 30% reported their teens having made the transition.
A five-year study will assess the plan's impact on healthcare utilization, health outcomes, and enrollment patterns. U-M researchers will analyze encrypted data files to protect participant privacy while gathering valuable insights.
Researchers have identified bacterial genes that help UTIs spread, providing a potential new target for treating UTIs. The study reveals the specific genes expressed by E. coli bacteria in human urinary tract infections, which can be attacked to promote survival of the bacteria.
A new study shows racial disparities in Medicare Advantage persist across the US, except in Western states, where control of key health measures is higher for black seniors. In contrast, Eastern and Midwestern states show significant gaps between white and black seniors.
A study of 596 patients found that those taking antacid medications had significantly better overall survival rates than non-users. The results suggest that proton pump inhibitors and histamine 2 blockers may have a favorable impact on patient outcomes.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that more than half of seniors with signs of dementia haven't received a medical evaluation. The study suggests that as many as 1.8 million Americans over 70 with dementia are not being evaluated for cognitive symptoms, which can lead to modifiable causes of thinking or memory impairment.
A new study by researchers at Michigan Medicine reveals significant variations in the quality and content of clinical cancer guidelines. The guidelines, published within the last six years, have average scores ranging from 27% to 90%, suggesting a wide disparity in treatment recommendations.
Researchers studied 30,670 patients undergoing heart surgery across 27 hospitals and found that the lowest-cost hospitals had significantly lower mortality rates, shorter lengths of stay, and fewer post-operative complications. These findings suggest that initiatives improving quality of care may also reduce costs for this population.
A new study analyzes individual results and population-level data to clear the paradox of faster heart attack treatment times. The findings show that treating more complex patients with emergency angioplasty and stents appears to be why mortality hasn't decreased with reduced door-to-balloon time.
A new study found that offering a $50 cash reward through a lottery-style incentive increased the completion rate of stool tests for colon cancer screening among veterans. The test helps detect early signs of abnormal growths or cancer in the colon and is recommended annually for people over 50.
A national poll reveals that most parents want strong policies to ensure children in daycare are up-to-date on vaccines. In response to a scenario where 1 in 4 children were not vaccinated, 74% of parents would consider removing their child from the daycare.
Scientists uncover that newborn mice's ear rapidly regenerates lost supporting cells, preserving hearing. This discovery reveals a previously unknown ability and opens doors for finding new approaches to regenerate auditory cells and restore hearing in humans.
A new study found that survivors of heart attacks and strokes experience a rapid decline in physical abilities over time, leading to increased disability and depressive symptoms. The study suggests that these survivors should be screened for functional disability long after discharge from the hospital.
A two-year study of urban teens and young adults shows that those with PTSD or drug use are more likely to suffer additional violent injuries, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study suggests that addressing substance use and PTSD in the first six months after injury may help prevent recidivism.
A new analysis of current evidence suggests that expensive and cheaper drugs both work well in easing diabetes nerve pain. Considering the significant cost difference between medications, doctors should prioritize cost when prescribing treatments for diabetic neuropathy until more studies are done.
A new University of Michigan analysis reveals that less than half of Michigan birthing hospitals provide prevention information on their websites about Tdap vaccination and whooping cough. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends Tdap vaccination during pregnancy to protect newborns from this potentially deadly disease.
A new University of Michigan analysis shows that penalties for chronic lung disease will disproportionately affect hospitals caring for poor and minority patients. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address socioeconomic factors contributing to readmissions.
A recent survey conducted by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital found that mothers are more likely than fathers to read nutrition labels when considering food and drink purchases. Nearly half of mothers report checking the labels always or very often for added/total sugars.
A new study found that nearly two-thirds of patients treated for stage 3 colorectal cancer reported some measure of financial burden due to their treatment. The burden was greatest among patients who received chemotherapy and younger patients in low-paying jobs.
A comprehensive analysis of thyroid cancer has identified markers of aggressive tumors, which could lead to better targeting of treatments. The study suggests the potential to reclassify the disease based on genetic markers and moves thyroid cancer into a position to benefit from precision medicine.
A new analysis of Michigan's Medicaid expansion found that the state enrolled over 327,000 people in its first 100 days, beating projections. The program has also shown promise for reducing health disparities and improving health outcomes among low-income adults.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that one in five physicians was unaware a patient had a central venous catheter, which can lead to life-threatening complications such as bloodstream infections and blood clots. The study suggests that improving device awareness is crucial for preventing these complications.
Researchers have restored hearing in mice with partial deafening caused by noise exposure using advanced tools to increase NT3 protein production. The study demonstrates the critical role of NT3 in maintaining communication between the ears and brain, offering a potential target for future treatments.
Researchers developed a web-based surveillance system to track illness trends and improve public health response. The system uses data from preschools and child care centers to detect early warning signs of disease outbreaks, enabling quicker mobilization of resources.
Sepsis affects more hospital patients than any other diagnosis, with half of all in-hospital deaths involving the condition. Researchers say a national system is needed to hold hospitals accountable for sepsis diagnosis and care, building on lessons from heart attack treatment.
University of Michigan scientists are launching a five-year effort to better understand the cause of falls in Parkinson's patients and find new options based on brain science. The Udall Center of Excellence will focus on the cholinergic system, which helps regulate attention and balance.
Researchers found that adding rapamycin to an immunotherapy approach strengthened the immune response against brain tumor cells, increasing the effect of new therapies. The study also showed increased memory cells, allowing the immune system to attack tumors more effectively.
Researchers have identified a potential method to interrupt abnormal bone growth, commonly known as heterotopic ossification (HO), in burn patients. Using an anti-inflammatory treatment called apyrase, the study found that HO can be reduced by breaking down ATP, a primary energy source for cells.
A large-scale study has found that group nature walks are linked with lower depression, less perceived stress, and enhanced mental health. Regular participants in the Walking for Health program experienced a mood boost after outdoor group walks, especially those who had recently experienced stressful life events.
A new study reveals that the US physician payment system is not inherently biased towards surgeons and procedure-performing doctors. The difference in pay between specialties arises mostly from differences in the number of minutes allocated to each service by Medicare's formula, which takes into account estimated times for work.
A U-M study found that almost three-quarters of parents are aware of online rating sites and over a quarter use them to choose healthcare providers for their children. The researchers also discovered that positive online ratings strongly influenced the likelihood of selecting a child's physician, while negative reviews had little impact.
According to a new University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital National Poll on Children's Health, the format of concussion education is linked to parents' confidence about managing their child's injury. Parents who watched videos or presentations rated them as very useful, while those who only signed waiver forms did not.
A new study by the University of Michigan found that one in five men in the US report violence towards their spouses or partners, with warning signs including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and insomnia. The study suggests that male aggression can be identified through routine health care visits and could potentially be intervened upon.