A study has found that EBCT scans can detect congenital abnormalities, including coronary artery anomalies, more accurately than traditional catheter angiography. This is especially important as it helps identify patients at risk of a heart attack or sudden death.
A study of over 33,000 children's doctor visits found that only 0.1% were diagnosed with obesity during well-child visits, despite the national rate being 13-15%. When doctors did diagnose obesity, they were more likely to discuss diet and exercise.
Researchers have found a way to get drugs past the blood-brain barrier to treat brain cancer. The compound JV-1-36, an antagonist of the hypothalamic growth hormone-releasing hormone, has shown promising results in treating malignant glioblastomas.
One-third of nursing home patients with Alzheimer's disease lack correct glasses, causing disorientation and falls. Regular eye exams can prevent this visual impairment, improving overall quality of life.
A new study published in Virology suggests that some strains of monkeypox are more virulent than others, depending on their origin in Africa. The 2003 US outbreak was caused by a West African virus, which may have been less deadly due to its strain.
Caffeine can increase heart activity, making it harder to see cancerous lesions on scans. Patients who consumed coffee before scans had higher myocardial uptake than those with low or no caffeine intake.
A new approach to PET imaging scans may help diagnose more cancerous lesions, with Saint Louis University researchers finding that up to 8% of cancerous legions occur outside the current imaging field. The true whole-body scan protocol has been successfully tested and could become the standard for all PET centers.
The study found that physicians who helped create plans for physical activity and followed up with patients were more likely to see increased physical activity. The physical environment also played a significant role, with active individuals reporting shorter walking times to community facilities.
A new study finds that fear of falling is surprisingly common among middle-aged African-American adults, affecting their activity levels and overall health. The phobia can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, causing individuals to become weaker and more prone to falls.
A study by SLU researchers found that African-Americans receive less medical care and smaller compensation packages for work-related back injuries, leading to greater dissatisfaction and long-term disability. This disparity can result in increased costs for the system and individuals, highlighting the need for more equitable treatment.
A study by Saint Louis University found that genetic factors account for over 50% of adult weight change, while environmental factors contribute to the remaining 50%. This suggests that individuals with a genetic predisposition to obesity face a more significant challenge in losing weight.
Researchers have mapped the genome of Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungus that causes severe inflammation of the brain in people with HIV and those taking chemotherapy or steroid treatments. The study identified 30 new genes involved in the fungus's biosynthesis, offering potential targets for treatment.
Experts say doctors need extensive training to prepare for bioterrorism threats, which can involve an incubation period of days or weeks. Doctors will be expected to recognize rare conditions and take appropriate action, balancing suspicion with hysteria.
A study by Saint Louis University found that pro-tobacco contributions speak louder to Democrats, but Republicans receive more money from the industry. The relationship between contributions and votes was three times stronger for Democrats than Republicans.
Research found African-Americans had lower medical care expenditures, excused time from work, and smaller financial settlements than Caucasians. Differences were also seen with socioeconomic status, with those of lower education and income receiving less.
A study by Saint Louis University researcher Amanda Harrod found that 73% of young families in Missouri's bootheel don't consume enough fruits and vegetables. Parents who eat out frequently also tend to have less produce at home, often due to a lack of taste preference.
Researchers at Saint Louis University found that frequent church attendees eat 26% more powerhouse fruits and vegetables than those who don't. These nutrient-dense foods include citrus, cruciferous, dark green leafy greens, and bright orange carrots.
The CorCap Cardiac Support Device has been found to significantly improve heart function and reduce the likelihood of needing a heart transplant in patients with moderate to severe heart failure. The device is an investigational mesh-like 'heart jacket' that prevents further enlargement during chest surgery.
Researchers at Saint Louis University discovered a new flu vaccine solution that uses lower doses in younger adults, which could stretch the nation's vaccine supply by up to 2.5 times. This innovative approach involves administering the vaccine intradermally, between the layers of skin, rather than through a traditional muscle injection.
Researchers found that atropine eye drops administered two days a week are as effective as daily drops or an eye patch in treating amblyopia. This reduces hassle for young patients, enabling better vision development.
A new study finds that combining Pegasys with ribavirin reduces hepatitis C viral levels more effectively than Peg-Intron, a promising development in treating the virus. The study's lead investigator hopes that the findings will inform the design of better drugs to combat the infection.
A new study from Saint Louis University has found that a standard test for vitamin B12 deficiency may be too insensitive, leading to potential misdiagnosis. The research urges doctors to also test for levels of methylmalonic acid in patients suspected of having the deficiency, which can easily be reversed with treatment.
Researchers found testosterone sped up recovery from strokes in castrated rat studies, showing significant improvement in neurological deficits. Plans are underway to investigate whether testosterone can help people recover from strokes.
Scientists discovered how neurons communicate by removing a specific part of the calcium channel molecule, disrupting neurotransmitter release. The study, published in PNAS, sheds light on the fundamental process of neural communication, providing insight into cellular structure and function.
A study by Saint Louis University researchers reveals a region in the Midwestern United States where summer daytime temperatures are not expected to rise as high as elsewhere, contrary to previous climate projections. The finding suggests that the impact of global warming on this region may be more complex than previously thought.
Saint Louis University researchers discovered that the blood-brain barrier has a transport system for enzymes that is lost with aging. This discovery opens up new possibilities for treating lysosomal storage diseases by targeting the blood-brain barrier's delivery mechanism.
A national survey found that hyperhidrosis affects an estimated 7.8 million individuals in the US, with axillary hyperhidrosis being the most common form, particularly among working-age adults. Women are more likely to discuss their condition with healthcare professionals than men.
A pediatric gastroenterologist urges increasing availability of comprehensive weight loss programs to support adolescents struggling with obesity. High-quality behavior-based weight-control programs are rare and expensive, but essential for reducing the need for life-altering bariatric surgery.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have demonstrated that the smallpox vaccine candidate LC16m8 protects mice from a virus related to smallpox when delivered via aerosol. The study aims to develop a safer smallpox vaccine for bioterrorism threats.
Researchers at SLU have developed oncolytic adenoviruses that target specific types of cancer cells, such as colon and lung cancer. These engineered viruses attack and destroy cancerous cells through a mechanism different from chemotherapy or radiation.
Researchers at Saint Louis University are testing a new, attenuated vaccine against smallpox, which could be administered to individuals with compromised immune systems. The study aims to explore the safety and efficacy of this investigational drug in a broader population.
Researchers at SLU School of Medicine discovered a new drug, Cinacalcet, that successfully treated hyperparathyroidism, a common side effect of kidney disease. The treatment works by fooling the parathyroid glands into thinking calcium levels are higher than they actually are.
Researchers discovered a genetic mutation that causes retinitis pigmentosa by interfering with cell development in the retina's capillaries. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new treatments for the disease.
Researchers at Saint Louis University found a potential link between adolescent marijuana use and increased risk of cerebellar strokes. Dr. Thomas Geller's study revealed three cases of teenage boys who suffered strokes after consuming large doses of marijuana.
New Saint Louis University research reveals that high triglycerides in the bloodstream prevent leptin from reaching the brain, leading to increased hunger and weight gain. The study suggests that lowering triglyceride levels may be a key factor in solving the obesity epidemic.
A new investigational anthrax vaccine is being tested in a phase II human study at Saint Louis University. The vaccine aims to provide better protection, an improved safety profile and a simpler dosing schedule.
A Saint Louis University study finds that most Americans don't make the most nutritious choices due to unclear nutrition messages. The research suggests eating a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A and C, betacarotene, and fiber reduces chronic disease risk.
A study in St. Louis, MO found that nearly half of poor African-American babies shared a bed with their mother, increasing SIDS risk. Providing safe cribs to these families reduced this risk by 78%.
A study found that less than half of urban fathers regularly attend doctor's appointments with their young children. The research highlights the need for family-friendly employment policies to encourage father involvement in childcare.
Botulinum toxin type A treatment significantly reduces sweat production and improves quality of life for hyperhidrosis patients. The Hyperhidrosis Severity Scale is a new tool to identify and assess treatment results.
Researchers found that parents who received a photo calendar of their baby's upcoming immunization dates were more likely to vaccinate their child. The study showed an 82% vaccination rate among babies whose parents received the calendars, compared to 65% for those without.
Researchers found that women with preeclampsia are more likely to have a successful vaginal delivery at tertiary care hospitals compared to primary and secondary care facilities. Tertiary hospitals offer comprehensive maternity and neonatal care services, including transport, education, and research.
A new investigational vaccine to prevent hepatitis C has been tested in humans for the first time, offering a promising breakthrough against the deadly virus. The study aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of three different strengths of the Chiron Corporation's vaccine.
New research from Saint Louis University shows that babies under 8 months are at highest risk of death in adult beds due to lack of motor skills to escape safety threats. The study recommends cribs as the safest option for babies' sleep, and calls for a public awareness campaign to alert parents.
Researchers at Saint Louis University have identified a protein transport deficit as a key factor in Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that reversing this deficit could lead to a new therapeutic target for treating the condition.
Researchers at SLU have successfully deciphered the molecular structure of recombination protein O (RecO), crucial for accurate genomic DNA replication. This breakthrough may aid pharmaceutical researchers in developing more effective drugs and basic scientists in understanding gene function.
A new study aims to investigate how physicians treat end-stage heart failure patients, focusing on the use of inotropic drugs. The research hopes to provide a framework for selecting care options, including palliation, for older heart failure patients near the end of life.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers found approximately 7.8 million Americans living with hyperhidrosis, which can cause anxiety, depression, isolation, and reduced quality of life. The study also revealed that axillary hyperhidrosis affects 4 million Americans, leading to feelings of less confidence and frustration.
A new treatment model at Saint Louis University Hospital eliminates traditional methods for caring for elderly patients with delirium. By placing patients in a Delirium Room with constant supervision, the hospital has significantly reduced fall rates and mortality rates.
A recent study found that infection control practitioners' perceptions of the bioterrorism threat can leave them unprepared in case of an attack. The survey, conducted by Saint Louis University, revealed that those in rural areas and the Midwest felt less at risk than urban residents.