A new meta-analysis shows patients treated with nesiritide had an 80% increased risk of death compared to traditional drugs, highlighting the need for a randomized clinical trial. The study's authors argue that nesiritide is likely associated with important risks and suggest diuretics and vasodilators as safer alternatives.
Researchers have discovered a compound derived from Chinese medicine that works to regulate a protein called Bcl-xL, which is overexpressed in cancer cells. The compound, (-)-gossypol, has been shown to induce programmed cell death in head and neck cancer cells resistant to chemotherapy.
A new study shows that the GeoForm mitral valve repair ring can reverse damage caused by congestive heart failure and improve symptoms in patients with severe mitral valve regurgitation. The ring has been approved for tightening leaky mitral valves, but also changes the shape of the left ventricle to help it contract better.
A new study suggests that insomnia is more likely to lead to falls in older adults than previously believed. The research found that individuals with untreated insomnia were 90% more likely to fall, compared to those taking sleep medications. Effective treatment of insomnia can help reduce the risk of falls.
Researchers found that individuals with higher financial assets before becoming disabled reported better well-being and less sadness after disability, compared to those with lower financial resources. The study suggests that financial security is crucial for maintaining psychological well-being during times of health decline.
Researchers found that chronic gastritis can progress to gastric cancer in mice with abnormally low levels of gastrin. The study identified key genes and molecular changes involved in the development of human gastric cancer.
Researchers developed a functional diffusion map using MRI scans to track water diffusion in the brain, finding that changes predicted tumor response 10 weeks before traditional techniques. This method could spare patients from ineffective treatment and allow doctors to switch to more effective therapies.
Researchers discovered a new protein, KCP, that enhances signals from bone morphogenetic proteins, vital for kidney development and function. In models of mice with renal injuries, KCP activity slowed the progression of kidney disease, suggesting it could be a potential therapeutic agent.
Researchers found that leptin regulates blood sugar through two brain-body pathways, one controlling appetite and fat storage, and another influencing liver glucose reserves. The study suggests that disrupting both pathways may be necessary for developing full-blown diabetes.
A study published in Michigan Medicine found that women are less likely to receive quality heart attack care compared to men, despite experiencing the same mortality benefits. However, when given a one-on-one session with doctors or nurses and signing a discharge contract, women's survival rates improved significantly.
A small study found that St. John's wort amplifies the effect of blood thinner Plavix, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding among those who take both. The researchers plan to conduct further studies to confirm the finding and explore its implications for new drug development.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that mutations in NPHP5 produce defects in cilia, leading to kidney failure and retinitis pigmentosa. The study reveals a common molecular mechanism causing both diseases.
A new study found that nearly two-thirds of men are up-to-date with prostate cancer screening, but only 47.6% have had a recent colon cancer screening. The researchers suggest using prostate cancer screenings as an opportunity to encourage men to get screened for colon cancer, which is projected to affect over 70,000 men this year.
A new state-of-the-art hospital will provide patients in Michigan and globally with access to U-M's world-class medical care for newborns, children, and pregnant women. The proposed facility will house current services and expand research and treatment capabilities.
A new study found that pre-diabetes prevention efforts are worth every penny, with a one-on-one weight loss and exercise program showing a 58% reduction in Type 2 diabetes risk. Lifestyle interventions could delay the onset of diabetes by an average of 11 years and reduce the risk of developing diabetes by 20%.
Researchers at U-M Health System found that disease severity in patients with ulcerative colitis can be accurately evaluated without frequent lower endoscopies. The study suggests using non-invasive indices, such as patient-reported symptoms, to monitor disease activity and spare patients the discomfort of regular endoscopies.
A new study reveals that a secreted signaling protein called Wnt10b stimulates the growth of bone cells and inhibits fat cell development, leading to increased bone mass and density in mice. The research also shows that Wnt10b protects against bone loss from aging or estrogen deficiency.
A new radioactive antibody treatment called Bexxar has shown promising results in a study, rivaling traditional chemotherapy regimens for follicular lymphoma. The treatment achieved a 95% response rate and 75% complete remission in patients with advanced-stage disease.
The IRE1 protein plays a crucial role in regulating new protein synthesis and immune cell development. Researchers have found that IRE1 is essential for the development of B lymphocytes, which produce antibodies to fight infections. The study suggests that IRE1 could be a target for new drugs to treat autoimmune diseases such as lupus.
Researchers found that people with fibromyalgia have similar average activity levels as those without the condition, but lower high-intensity activities. This study suggests a more nuanced understanding of fibromyalgia and could lead to changes in treatment.
A study by researchers at Michigan Medicine and the University of South Florida found a significant generation gap in chronic pain coping among black and white adults. Older adults generally scored higher on pain intensity and disability measurements, but younger adults experienced more depression symptoms and sleep disturbances.
A new study found that rats bred for low aerobic exercise capacity had more cardiovascular disease risk factors than those bred for high exercise capacity. The researchers discovered a close association between low aerobic capacity and metabolic syndrome, including high blood pressure, insulin-resistance, and abdominal fat.
A study by U-M researchers found that night-time splinting can effectively improve hand and wrist discomfort for active workers with early symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The results showed significant improvement in symptoms for half of the splinted group after six weeks.
A new study found that children's hospitals can do better in preventing hospital-acquired infections, clots in intravenous lines, and bedsores. The analysis suggests ways to refine analytical tools to fit children's care more accurately.
Research suggests that changes in gut microflora can intensify immune reactions to common allergens, increasing the risk of chronic allergies or asthma. A mouse model study found that antibiotic treatment led to an overzealous allergic response in the lung.
Research reviews medical studies on mixed dementia and finds that treating cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure can be more effective in protecting brain function. This approach shows promise as a complementary strategy to memory-preserving drugs.
A new biopsy technique combining ultrasound and fine needle aspiration can reliably determine whether lymph nodes are malignant in women with breast cancer. The method allows for the identification of cancerous nodes without the need for sentinel lymph node sampling or axillary node dissection, saving patients from additional surgery.
A computer program reads CT scans and combines with radiologist's judgment to detect lung cancer, improving detection rates. The system analyzes size, texture, density, and change over time of nodules to determine cancer likelihood.
A new study reveals women with heart attacks wait significantly longer than men to receive emergency angioplasty, resulting in higher death rates. Patients who received treatment within 90 minutes of arrival had a 50% lower risk of dying in the hospital.
Researchers found that ICDs reduced heart-related deaths by 60% and overall mortality by 48%. However, patients with diabetes, kidney failure, or uncontrolled high blood pressure were more likely to die within a year of ICD implantation.
A study of 9,611 older adults found that regular physical activity in middle age significantly reduced the risk of early death. Even light activities like walking or gardening provided a protective effect.
A phase I/II study demonstrates the bioartificial kidney's safety and effectiveness in treating acute renal failure, with six patients surviving over 30 days after treatment. The device uses human adult progenitor/stem cells to filter blood and regulate immune system molecules.
A recent study found that smoking produces major changes in the flow of endogenous opioids, matching changes in how smokers feel before and after smoking. This system is also stimulated by heroin and morphine, suggesting a promising road for further discovery.
Scientists have identified 313 up-regulated and 207 down-regulated E.coli genes in mouse urine, revealing new insights into bacterial growth and virulence factors. The study provides valuable information on growing conditions and could lead to more effective treatments for urinary tract infections.
A multi-university study found that levels of fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) and their receptors were significantly lower in people with severe clinical depression. The researchers also found that those who had been taking antidepressants before death had levels closer to normal.
Researchers compared two animal-derived surfactants and found that Infasurf improved lung function with fewer doses required. The study suggests a cost savings, as Infasurf was more effective over time.
Researchers found that estrogen significantly reduces MMP-9 enzyme activity in male rat aortas, leading to smaller aneurysms and less damage. The study suggests that host environment is the critical factor in aneurysm formation, with male rats more prone to AAA development.
Researchers at the University of Michigan are collaborating on a three-year project to address racial disparities in pregnancy outcomes. The study aims to develop more comprehensive and coordinated prenatal care strategies, as well as evaluate the role of leadership, providers, and patients in improving health equity.
Researchers at U-M used a technology called ubiquitin-mediated fluorescence complementation to study a cell-signaling mechanism. They discovered how ubiquitin modified protein Jun's function and location, and found that an E3 ligase binding enzyme called Itch played a key role in this process.
A study found that one in six chronically ill adults skip medication due to cost, with those paying more out-of-pocket or having no coverage being the most likely. The researchers estimate that this skimping leads to over a million Americans using less medication and 1.6 million missing doses.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine found that using child-specific data improved quality of care for asthmatic children's hospital stays. The team reduced length and cost growth of hospital stays and readmission rates by 50% through targeted quality improvement efforts.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have found that a potential small molecule inhibitor, (-)-gossypol, can boost the effectiveness of radiation therapy and chemotherapy in human prostate tumors in mice. The study demonstrates increased induction of apoptosis, making cancer cells more sensitive to treatment.
A study finds that two-thirds of chronically ill patients cut back on prescription drugs due to cost concerns, but few inform their doctors. The researchers recommend healthcare providers take the initiative to ask patients about cost issues and educate them on necessary medications. Most patients who spoke up received help through fre...
The chicken pox vaccine has resulted in a 74% decrease in national hospital discharges for the disease, saving $100 million annually. Herd immunity also protects unvaccinated individuals, leading to lower hospital costs among teens and adults.
A study using CellSearch technology found that women with high tumor cell levels in their blood had poor treatment outcomes. Women whose circulating tumor cell levels dropped after starting therapy fared much better.
A new study found that only half of parents' anti-asthma efforts are likely to work, while the other half may be unproven or potentially harmful. The study highlights a need for better education and support for parents, as well as healthcare providers, to effectively manage childhood asthma.
Researchers found VA patients received standard processes of care more often, including recommended tests and services, and had better diabetes control. The study suggests the VA's national system provides excellent quality care due to its integrated care and tracking mechanisms.
A recent study by Michigan Medicine reveals that Mexican-Americans are twice as likely to experience a stroke or near-stroke compared to non-Hispanic whites. The disparity holds true across various age groups, including younger populations, with unique genetic predispositions and potential factors contributing to the increased risk.
Researchers found DNA and proteins from BK virus in prostate tissue with abnormal cell changes, a precursor stage of prostate cancer. The virus may induce uncontrolled cell growth, leading to cancer.
A Michigan Medicine study found that female and black legislators are more likely to sponsor child health bills, with proposals making up 37% of all child health bills. Child health bills were a small percentage of overall health bills, but states with higher legislative passage rates had more success in enacting these bills.