A new study has identified 11 genetic mutations in SIDS cases, with a significant association found in African American babies. The study suggests that these mutations may contribute to the increased risk of SIDS in this ethnic group.
A phase III study uses IL13-PE38QQR, a hybrid protein that attaches to specific receptors on tumor cells, to target residual GBM brain tumors. The treatment, convection-enhanced delivery, facilitates infusion of the drug into the brain, bypassing the blood-brain barrier.
A new partial breast radiation procedure using balloon brachytherapy has shown promising results in reducing treatment time and improving cosmetic outcomes. The study found that women treated with this method experienced quick recovery, good cosmetic results, and no evidence of cancer recurrence during a 1-2 year follow-up.
Researchers from Rush University Medical Center have discovered that diabetics are at a significantly higher risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study, which followed over 800 Catholic nuns and priests for five years, found a 65% increase in the risk of AD among those with diabetes.
Researchers propose a novel regimen of frequent low-dose caffeine to help shift workers and others stay awake. The strategy works by building up caffeine levels in sync with the homeostatic system's push for sleep.
The guidelines provide a rigorous analysis of the safety, efficacy, and mode of use of new antiepileptic drugs, offering clinicians evidence-based assessments for treatment decisions. The guidelines address concerns about side effects and liver metabolism, providing guidance on using newer drugs safely and effectively.
A recent study found that college-educated Caucasian women have lower BMI levels compared to similar African American women, regardless of age or other factors. However, the study suggests that socioeconomic status may not be as protective against obesity for black women.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found significant disparities in mammography screening rates among racial and ethnic minorities. The study revealed that women from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and those without health insurance were less likely to receive screenings. Effective strategies include access-enhancing effort...
A new study aims to determine which assay is most effective in providing accurate CD4 cell counts in HIV positive patients in rural countries. The research, led by a Rush University Medical Center scientist, tests three different assays to assess CD4 cell counts and could help improve treatment outcomes for millions worldwide.
The STEPS study evaluates the safety and efficacy of Spheramine, a cell therapy that produces levodopa to enhance dopamine production in the brain. The study aims to provide a new method for Parkinson's patients to achieve continuous control of motor function.
Researchers found that fetal exposure to Ecstasy causes changes in brain chemistry and behavior in rats. The study, which mimicked the first trimester of human pregnancy, revealed a 502% increase in dopamine neuron fibers in the frontal cortex of Ecstasy-exposed rats.
Researchers study women's midlife health, focusing on intra abdominal fat and its impact on heart disease risk. The WISH project examines the mediating role of stress on cardiovascular risk among post menopausal women.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that higher education is associated with better memory and learning ability in individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in Neurology, suggests that formal education may provide a cognitive reserve that reduces the effects of AD brain abnormalities.
Researchers developed a new method to assess breast cancer patients' prognosis by analyzing 185 genes. The study found that tumors with specific gene expressions can predict long-term survival, even among women with multiple positive nodes.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Medical Genetics found a significant association between SIDS and a gene regulating serotonin uptake. The study identified an increased frequency of the L allele in SIDS cases versus controls, suggesting a potential genetic risk factor for the condition.
Researchers have found that ceramic-to-ceramic hip implants are more durable than metal-on-polyethylene replacements, with a 4,000-fold increase in durability. A large-scale clinical trial showed no postoperative bearing fractures or particles flaking off, indicating potential benefits for younger patients.
Researchers found that using a mesh patch for large hiatal hernias results in no recurrence of the condition, marking a significant improvement over traditional surgical methods. This breakthrough study provides new hope for patients with large hiatal hernias, offering an effective and lower-risk treatment option.
A study published in the American Journal of Pathology found that uncircumcised men are more susceptible to HIV due to high concentrations of target cells in their foreskin tissue. This tissue contains higher densities of CD4+ T cells, macropahges and Langerhans' Cells than in circumcised individuals or cervical tissue.
A new study evaluates CX516, an Ampakine compound, to enhance glutamate transmission in the brain for fragile X syndrome and autism. The trial aims to improve cognitive deficits associated with these diseases.
Chicago researchers awarded $9 million NIH grant to investigate the impact of lifestyle experiences on cognitive function and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how cognitively stimulating activities can increase neural reserve and reduce the likelihood of memory loss and other clinical signs of Alzheimer's.
The CONVINCE trial demonstrated that a controlled-onset extended-release calcium channel blocker, COVERA-HS, can provide equivalent effects to standard care therapy in reducing cardiovascular events. The study found that over 84% of patients achieved blood pressure control after medication titration.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center have identified the signal that instructs stem/progenitor cells to become dopamine neurons, a key step in treating Parkinson's disease. By cloning and transplanting these specific cells, the team hopes to develop new treatments for Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and other diseases.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center are conducting a Phase I clinical trial to test the safety and efficacy of an HIV vaccine in healthy individuals. The vaccine has shown promise in eliciting specific antiviral cellular immune responses and is generally well-tolerated.
A combination treatment of Pegasys and ribavirin has shown an unprecedented 61% sustained virologic response rate, the highest ever recorded. The treatment regimen should be based on hepatitis C virus genotype rather than traditional weight-based methodology.
The grant will allow Rush to increase awareness among African-American men aged 50+, who are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer. The organization plans to conduct free screenings and refer patients to local doctors or Rush after diagnosis.
Researchers found that behavior management programs improved sleep in 54% of CBT group participants and 39% in the HART group. These programs teach individuals to reset their 'sleep clock' by adhering to a regular sleep period, reducing daytime naps, and avoiding activities that make it difficult to fall asleep.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation awards a $10 million grant to Jeffrey Kordower, PhD, of Rush University Medical Center, to develop embryonic stem cell lines for Parkinson's disease treatment. The goal is to create dopaminergic cells that can be used in research and potentially lead to new treatments.
The Rush University Medical Center has opened a new tissue and cell lab to develop clinical-grade human cellular components for treating certain cancers. The facility will utilize immunotherapy, using the patient's own cells to target cancerous cells.
Recent divorce can trigger emotional problem-solving during dreaming, according to Rush University Medical Center study. Volunteers who saw ex-spouse in dreams as weak or negative reported improvement after waking.
The study aims to determine whether modafinil can effectively treat excessive sleepiness and improve alertness in night shift workers with chronic Shift Work Sleep Disorder. Those most likely affected are individuals working non-traditional schedules, leading to increased risk of work-related injuries and accidents.
Researchers at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center are testing two forms of behavior management to help patients with chronic heart failure manage their illness. The 18-week course and weekly tip sheets aim to teach patients how to monitor their reactions to stressful events and make lifestyle changes.
The Rush College of Nursing will integrate information on CAM therapies into undergraduate and graduate nursing curricula and develop continuing education programs for faculty and practicing nurses. The program aims to equip nurses with expertise to assess CAM use, critically appraise therapy safety, and provide patient guidance.
Researchers are enrolling patients in a clinical trial to investigate the safety and tolerability of early antiretroviral therapy for recently infected HIV patients. The study aims to determine whether early intervention can reduce disease progression, viral mutations, and immune system damage.
A clinical study using human fetal tissue transplants suggests that the procedure may be logistically feasible and procedurally safe for patients with syringomyelia cavities. The study's primary goal is to evaluate the safety of transplantation with respect to possible early complications and long-term consequences.
Researchers have found that thalidomide can help patients with myelodysplastic syndrome, a group of disorders affecting the bone marrow and leading to acute myeloid leukemia. The study showed a 20% response rate among patients treated with thalidomide, with some achieving transfusion independence.
A laboratory study found that vitamin E concentrations did not interfere with the killing of cancer cells by radiation therapy. However, the study's limitations mean that the impact on real-world treatment outcomes is unclear.
The event will feature panel presentations by patients and family members who share their experiences coping with spinal cord injuries. Researchers discuss recent advances in treating SCI, including neurotrophic electrodes, growth factors, gene therapy, and stem cell therapies.
A new healthcare team model, called Virtual Integrated Practice (VIP), aims to improve the management of chronic diseases in geriatric patients. The study uses team principles from the business world and will link patients and doctors with a team of health professionals using technology such as cellular phones and the Internet.
A study published in the Lancet found that a catheter laser procedure combined with medication is more effective than medication alone in treating severe chest pain. The procedure, known as PTMR, stimulates new blood vessel growth and increases circulation to relieve angina symptoms.
Researchers used gene therapy to deliver GDNF directly to the brain cells of monkeys, resulting in a dramatic increase in dopamine production and prevention of disease progression. The treatment also reversed functional deficits and symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease.
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center found that certain antibiotic agents can improve autism symptoms in some children, particularly those colonized by bacteria producing toxins. The study suggests a possible link between intestinal bacteria and autism, warranting further research for prevention or treatment strategies.
A new laser treatment being tested at Rush University Medical Center has shown promise in eliminating the need for surgery in women with small breast cancers. The procedure uses a laser delivered through a needle to destroy tumors detected by mammography, resulting in no complications and minimal pain.
Researchers found that transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR) improves angina by at least 2 classes in 72% of patients, while also increasing myocardial perfusion by 20%. TMR safely and effectively improved heart function over a 12-month period, driving its use with difficult bypass and angioplasty procedures.
The Rush University Medical Center has launched a new NIH-funded program to train individuals in the fundamentals of clinical research. The program, which includes courses on biostatistics, epidemiology, and research ethics, aims to prepare individuals for careers in clinical research.
A clinical trial is underway to investigate whether estrogen can enhance the effects of drugs used to treat Parkinson's patients, who experience a 'roller coaster' effect from daily Levodopa use. The study aims to determine if hormone replacement therapy can improve the effectiveness and duration of Mirapex treatment.