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Thomas Jefferson University


Sacrificing sleep for love

A study found that male fruit flies have specific neurons called MS1 that release octopamine to keep them awake during courtship, suppressing sleep. The researchers also discovered that these neurons communicate with other brain cells to enhance male sexual behavior.

Virtual environment education reduces anxiety prior to radiation therapy

A pilot study conducted by Thomas Jefferson University found that a virtual environment education program significantly reduced anxiety and increased comprehension in patients receiving radiation therapy. The program used simulated environments to teach patients about their treatment, resulting in improved confidence and satisfaction.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Radiation Oncology·DateMar 23, 2017

More IV fluids, fewer c-sections

A new study by Thomas Jefferson University found that women who received IV fluids at a higher rate during labor were less likely to need a cesarean section and had shorter labors. The study pooled data from seven small clinical trials involving over 1,200 women.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalActa Obstetricia Et Gynecologica Scandinavica·DateMar 15, 2017

A receptor discovered for progranulin

The discovery of EphA2 as a receptor for progranulin sheds light on its role in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Progranulin binding activates cellular pathways that promote cancer cell aggression, while also triggering a positive feedback loop that increases progranulin secretion.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateNov 30, 2016

New approach tests the strength of immunity

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a new test to determine immune cell strength, which could help predict patient reactions to various threats. The CaFlux test uses calcium channel detection to assess T-cell responses, offering insights into potential allergies or autoimmunity.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 27, 2016

The benefits of exercise during pregnancy

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that exercise during pregnancy does not increase the risk of preterm birth and may actually reduce it. Women who exercised were more likely to deliver vaginally and had lower rates of C-sections, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJul 7, 2016

New pathway to treat heart failure

Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have found a new way to keep the heart pumping, which could lead to new drugs for heart disease. By activating the beta2-adrenergic receptor, they can promote the contraction of heart muscle cells and potentially treat heart failure.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 27, 2016

Allowing women to extend labor reduces rate of cesarean delivery

A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that allowing women to extend labor by four hours instead of three resulted in a significant reduction of cesarean deliveries. The incidence of cesarean delivery was about 19.5 percent in the extended labor group, compared to 43 percent in the usual labor group.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateMar 16, 2016

Sleep apnea treatment associated with reduced readmissions for patients with heart failure

A recent study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea may reduce six-month readmissions for patients hospitalized with heart failure. Researchers discovered a significant reduction in hospital visits among patients who used positive airway pressure therapy regularly.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalThe American Journal of Cardiology·DateJan 26, 2016

Three hits to fight lung cancer

Researchers have discovered a triple therapy approach that could make treatment-resistant lung cancers susceptible to therapy. The combination of two experimental drugs and radiation therapy was found to be effective in mice with KRAS-related gene mutations.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateJan 1, 2016