Researchers analyzed DNA samples from 127 patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) to determine if a KIT tyrosine kinase mutation was present and its impact on Gleevec response. Patients with favorable lab results had an 84 percent chance of partial remission, while those with unfavorable results did not respond.
CPOE reduces medical errors by improving communication and order tracking, but its use is hindered by implementation difficulties. Silent errors occur due to system design disconnects, including data entry and retrieval issues, and loss of face-to-face interactions.
A study by OHSU researchers found a strong relationship between the decline of estrogen and progesterone in female monkeys and significant weight gain. The study suggests that menopause may play a key role in metabolic changes leading to obesity.
Exercise has been found to increase brain capillary volume, particularly in older animals, suggesting physical changes may occur. Additionally, monkeys who exercised showed improved performance and mental engagement compared to sedentary groups.
In a groundbreaking clinical trial, OHSU doctors used the Onyx Liquid Embolic System to repair aneurysms in patients with promising results. The new procedure uses a catheter to inject a liquid that solidifies into a spongy mass, sealing off the defect and preventing future ruptures.
Researchers have identified a key molecular signaling system controlling the development of smooth muscle in embryos, which may lead to new treatments for heart disease, cancer, and neurological disorders. The 'Jelly Belly' gene plays a crucial role in signaling primitive cells to become muscle cells.
A new OHSU study reveals that consuming four or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day can significantly lower the risk of breast cancer. The research, conducted in Shanghai, China, found a 50% reduced risk among participants who met this daily intake threshold.
A study of 27 women aged 35-44 found that 50% of their deaths were due to undetermined causes, a stark contrast to men of the same age group. Researchers are now focusing on novel, unorthodox causes for these unexpected deaths.
Researchers have identified a new gene in zebrafish that controls the formation of calcium carbonate crystals in otoliths, which are crucial for balance and sound perception. By manipulating this gene, scientists can create star-shaped crystals that alter the fish's balance and orientation.
Researchers at OHSU discovered that HIV-encoded protein Vif neutralizes human protein APOBEC3G, which would inactivate HIV if present. This finding could lead to the development of targeted anti-HIV drugs and provide insights into the body's innate protection system.
A study found that exercise increases BDNF and neurogenesis in mice, but high levels of these chemicals don't necessarily improve learning. In fact, high-running mice perform poorly in maze tests, suggesting a potential 'tipping point' where too much exercise becomes detrimental.
A new study by OHSU scientists explores the impact of hydrologic alteration on salmon populations, revealing a 52% reduction in shallow water habitat due to diking. The research also shows that flow-cycle alteration would have reduced spring-freshet shallow water habitat by 29%.
Researchers discovered the protein PHF9, which disables the function of the FA pathway, a network critical for DNA repair, blood development, and fertility. This breakthrough provides new insights into Fanconi anemia, a rare genetic cancer-susceptibility syndrome affecting millions worldwide.
A new nomogram model predicts prostate cancer likelihood in men with PSA levels below 10 ng/ml, helping to reduce unnecessary biopsies. The model identifies four independent risk factors for positive biopsy results and provides a score to calculate the likelihood of cancer presence.
Researchers discovered that repeated vaccinations provide short-term immunity boosts but do not sustain higher protection levels. Long-term antibody immunity can last throughout a person's lifetime, while T-cell immunity declines slowly over time.
A breast cancer program for low-income women found a significant rate of 12.3 cancers per 1,000 women, exceeding results from other screening programs. Excellent compliance with surgical recommendations was also observed, attributed to the program's translation and transportation services.
Researchers at OHSU found significant differences in free-base nicotine levels among 11 commercial cigarette brands, with some containing up to 36% free-base nicotine. The study's findings have implications for understanding the addictiveness of different tobacco products and may guide future research.
Hospice nurses reported that patients who hastened death by refusing food and fluids were ready to die, saw no meaning in living, and had poor quality of life. These patients died within 15 days after stopping food and fluids, with a median score of 8 for the quality of their deaths.
Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University have developed the first comprehensive guidelines for treating brain injuries in children, addressing key issues such as airway management and surgical options. The guidelines aim to improve treatment consistency and outcomes across hospitals and clinicians worldwide.
Researchers found that smallpox vaccine-induced antibody immunity can last a person's entire life, while T-cell immunity declines slowly over time. The study also showed that repeated vaccinations have little impact on immunity levels.
Researchers found significant improvement in fatigue among MS patients who participated in yoga and exercise groups compared to a waiting list group. The study suggests that activity interventions may have a positive impact on quality of life for people with multiple sclerosis.
OHSU researchers have created the first animal model for episodic ataxia, a rare form of ataxia that causes patients to appear 'drunk' at times. The model helps understand and treat the disease, including how medication acetazolamide works.
Scientists have discovered that bone marrow-derived stem cells can fuse with liver cells to form healthy, functional cells. This process, called cell fusion, reverses liver damage in mice with a genetic disease, paving the way for potential human treatments.
Scientists have identified a new brain region, the Edinger-Westphal nucleus, involved in alcohol craving. Urocortin levels in this region correspond with an animal's desire to drink alcohol, suggesting that reducing urocortin may help reduce alcohol craving.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reveals that two types of medications used to treat osteoporosis and certain cancers can cause inflammation in the eyes, leading to vision loss or blindness if left untreated. The research found that almost 100 patients experienced blurred vision, pain, and swelling as a r...
Researchers identified ghrelin as a hormone that stimulates feeding when introduced to specialized brain cells. Increased ghrelin levels in response to weight loss or reduced caloric intake lead to increased appetite and eating in both mice and humans.
Researchers at OHSU produced mice lacking the WAVE-1 protein, showing balance, motor, learning and memory deficits. The study suggests that mental retardation involves many more areas of the brain than initially thought.
Researchers have identified a mutated form of the enzyme PDGFRA, which is found in many body tissues and may trigger gastrointestinal stromal tumors. The study validates a novel molecular technology that can be used to find additional targets for cancer treatments.
Researchers have found a promising combination therapy that may significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced prostate cancer. In a phase II clinical trial, the combination of calcitriol and docetaxel showed a higher PSA response rate compared to docetaxel alone.
A new testing method for Huntington's disease (HSS) has been discovered by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University and UCSF. The test uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify the 'eye of the tiger sign' in patients with PANK2 mutations, a gene linked to HSS and Parkinson's disease.
A $1.4 million NIH-funded study will use genetically altered mice to find morphine-regulated genes that cause tolerance and dependence. The researchers aim to create better therapeutics and prevent dependence, with potential benefits for children born to drug-dependent mothers.
OHSU researchers identified a critical role of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules in training T-cells to combat infections. The discovery may lead to the development of more effective vaccines and immune system boosting strategies for susceptible populations, such as the elderly.
Researchers are studying the effects of Bacopa monniera on cognitive function in people over 65. The 50-participant clinical trial aims to maximize cognitive function and assess the supplement's impact on short-term memory, attention, and reaction time.
Scientists identified the arcuate nucleus in the hypothalamus as a key regulator of body weight, using a new method pioneered by OHSU researchers. Introducing peripheral hormone PYY 3-36 led to a significant reduction in food intake in both mice and humans, with participants feeling less hungry and eating fewer calories.
Research on domestic rams reveals marked brain differences among those preferring same-sex and opposite-sex partners. The preoptic hypothalamus shows distinct variations in neurons involved in sexual behavior, shedding light on the biological basis of mate choice.
A study by Oregon Health & Science University found that computer prescriptions significantly reduced errors in the prescribing process. The system improved legibility and accuracy, resulting in a 0.8% error rate compared to 2.3%, saving time for pharmacists and improving patient safety.
Physicians must consider ethical obligations when treating patients using alternative medicine, including risks and benefits of therapies. A list of factors to aid risk-benefit analysis has been provided by authors, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and in-depth discussions with patients.
The Timbot robotic model monster truck is developing software that could guide unmanned vehicles like cars, buses, or aircraft in the future. It supports 'graceful degradation' by adapting to changes in its environment and prioritizing critical functions.
Scientists at Oregon Health & Science University have identified a potential target for anxiety-reducing drugs that may be less addictive and have fewer side effects. The research found that mice lacking a certain enzyme exhibit reduced anxiety levels, providing insight into the mechanisms of stress creation.
The OHSU team will develop three miniaturized ultrasound devices that can be inserted into the heart to provide treatment through a single catheter, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries and improving patient outcomes. The devices will feature Doppler imaging and high-frequency sound waves to detect and treat abnormal heart rhythms.
A new clinical trial is investigating the combination of high-dose calcitriol and docetaxel in treating advanced prostate cancer, with the goal of reducing PSA levels by 50% or more. The study builds on promising preliminary results from a previous Oregon Health & Science University trial.
The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends routine osteoporosis screening to reduce fracture risk in women with low bone density. The optimal frequency of testing is unclear, but intervals of two to five years are most consistent with current understanding.
A recent study by OHSU suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can lead to improved breast cancer detection and survival rates. The research found that HRT users had a 100% survival rate after six years, compared to an 87% survival rate for non-users.
Researchers found that benzene derivatives have higher neurotoxic potency than previously thought. The study suggests related aromatic chemicals may also damage the nervous system, with potential applications as a biological marker of exposure.
A recent study by OHSU researchers found that 96% of physicians and nurses believe increased family expectations for pain management contributed to the observed increase in family reports of pain among dying patients. Additionally, decreased physician prescribing of pain medications (66%) and reduced nurse administration of pain medica...
Researchers at OHSU are conducting a four-year study to determine whether ginkgo biloba can delay or prevent the early stages of Alzheimer's disease in people 85 years and older. The study aims to recruit 200 subjects who do not display signs of mental impairment and will use written, verbal, and MRI tests to assess cognitive function.
OHSU researchers successfully used bone marrow stem cells to repair liver damage in mice with genetic disease Tyrosinemia. The study shows that hematopoietic stem cells are required for liver cell regeneration, offering hope for new therapies using stem cells.
OHSU researchers discovered that bacteria like E. coli and Neisseria use pili to congregate into microcolonies before invading cells, which can lead to disease spread. The study provides strong data on the mechanism of bacterial movement, potentially leading to new treatments.
Researchers at OHSU's new Oregon Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Neurological Disorders (ORCCAMIND) are investigating the effects of yoga on healthy elders versus traditional exercise. The study aims to improve quality of life and slow aging impacts.
OHSU researchers have successfully recorded individual nerve cell transmissions for the first time, revealing how synapses enable cells to communicate. The study provides new insights into the mechanisms of neural communication and has potential implications for understanding neurological and mental diseases.