Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that ear tubes can be safely installed in children with cochlear implants to help clear up infections. The study showed no adverse impact on child health and hearing outcomes, allowing for proper management of ear tubes before cochlear implantation.
Researchers at UAB will investigate the mechanisms behind red blood cell interactions with nitric oxide, shedding light on potential negative effects of older stored blood units on circulation and immune response. The goal is to design therapies to prevent transfusion-related toxicities.
A new study by UAB researchers confirms that states with high levels of defense spending have lower poverty rates, less income inequality, and higher median family income. The study also demonstrates the U.S. economy's increasing dependence on military spending.
UAB researchers are investigating the role of inactivated DNA left behind after breast-cancer treatment. They aim to understand how this altered DNA activates cancer's deadly spread, a process called metastasis. The study could lead to improved prevention and treatment for millions of cancer patients.
A UAB study confirms a significant link between depression and abdominal obesity, with individuals experiencing high levels of depression gaining weight at a faster rate. The study suggests treating depression is crucial to controlling obesity and preventing related diseases.
Researchers found that two comparable procedures have equal benefits for men and women, but patient age affects outcomes. The study, part of the Carotid Revascularization Endarterectomy vs. Stenting Trial (CREST), shows stenting is more beneficial for younger patients, while surgery is better for older ones.
A UAB study found an association between hearing loss and the use of Viagra, with users twice as likely to report hearing loss. The findings suggest a potential link between PDE-5i medications and long-term hearing loss, warranting FDA warnings.
Researchers at UAB have made a breakthrough in understanding age-related memory loss, with histone deacetylase inhibitors showing great promise in both normal age-related decline and Alzheimer's disease. The findings provide important proof-of-principal for potential therapeutic interventions to improve quality of life in the aged.
A new experimental drug called ataluren has shown promise in treating cystic fibrosis and over 2,400 genetic disorders caused by nonsense mutations. The drug works by restoring up to 29% of normal protein function in mice with cystic fibrosis, offering hope for improved treatment options.
Researchers at UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center discovered four microRNA biomarkers that predict patient survival in colorectal cancer, with differences in outcomes between Caucasian and African-American patients.
A new study by UAB researchers found that mice fed a meal higher in fat after waking had normal metabolic profiles. In contrast, mice that ate a more carbohydrate-rich diet saw increased weight gain and markers of metabolic syndrome.
Researchers at UAB Center for Research in Applied Gerontology are testing InSight software to enhance reflexes and reaction time among senior adult drivers, aiming to reduce car crashes. The study involves training exercises on a computer screen and has the potential to help older adults maintain their cognitive function and mobility.
UAB researchers emphasize the need for community-driven approaches to reduce cancer disparities, citing limited access to care and differences in healthy behaviors as contributing factors. They highlight successful programs that have eliminated disparities in screenings for certain cancers and advocate for engaging diverse populations ...
Researchers at UAB found that Gardasil vaccine reduces the likelihood of HPV-related disease recurring after surgery by approximately 40 percent. This protection can provide crucial follow-up care and overall health planning for teens and women.
Researchers found that younger patients (age 69 and younger) benefit from stenting, while older patients (over 70) are more suited to surgery. This study provides valuable risk/benefit information to help physicians choose the best carotid procedure based on individual health history.
A UAB study shows that African-Americans under 65 are more than twice as likely to have a stroke compared to Caucasians. The South also has higher stroke mortality rates, particularly in coastal states like Georgia and North Carolina.
Researchers found that single-dose nevirapine can trigger resistance to AIDS-drug cocktail, but this resistance fades after 12 months. Women who need treatment within a year of using nevirapine for HIV prevention can use standard ART regimens.
Researchers at UAB are testing a software program designed to teach children safe dog interaction behaviors. The Blue Dog software aims to reduce accidental bites from pet dogs, particularly among children ages 5-9.
A UAB-led study found that training birth attendants in essential newborn-care techniques reduced stillbirths by over 30% globally. The train-the-trainer program improved perinatal mortality rates, particularly among low-cost interventions such as neonatal resuscitation and kangaroo care.
Researchers found that patients with a low ejection fraction in the right ventricle had a significantly increased risk of death. The study suggests that measuring RVEF can help identify high-risk patients and improve treatment outcomes.
Researchers found that even mild low potassium levels increase the risk of death in heart failure patients with chronic kidney disease. The study suggests routine monitoring and maintaining safe potassium levels to mitigate poor outcomes.
Increasing ocean acidity poses a significant threat to marine species, with potentially profound ramifications for food chains. A UAB expert warns that the effects of climate change on the world's oceans are undeniable and urgent.
A targeted preventive approach using Tamiflu and strict hand hygiene measures contained the outbreak of H1N1 influenza among 171 campers. The plan, developed by Dr. David Kimberlin and implemented in 2009, successfully prevented illness in all campers, including those at high risk.
The updated childhood vaccine schedule recommends the H1N1 influenza vaccine for children over 6 months and prioritizes combination vaccines. The revised schedule also includes recommendations for human papillomavirus (HPV) and meningococcal vaccines, aiming to protect against cervical cancer and meningococcal disease.
According to a new study, autism disorders have become more common among American children, with a prevalence rate approaching 1 percent among 8-year-olds. The study found a 57 percent increase in spectrum-disorder cases compared to four years earlier.
Researchers at UAB have discovered that restricting glucose consumption can extend the life of healthy human-lung cells and speed the death of precancerous cells. The study found that calorie reduction aids the body's natural ability to kill off cancer-forming cells through epigenetic control of telomerase and p16 expression.
A UAB study found that boys scored higher than girls for using their cell phones to play games, share pictures and videos, listen to music and/or send e-mails. Girls, on the other hand, tend to use their phones more as a phone book or contact list, while boys see the phone as a gadget.
A UAB physician recommends re-thinking pharyngitis diagnoses in adolescents and young adults to consider Fusobacterium necrophorum, which may cause up to 10% of sore throats. The bacteria is associated with a rare but life-threatening complication called Lemierre syndrome, which can be fatal.
African-Americans have lower survival rates than whites after surgery for colon cancer; the study suggests genetic variation, tumor characteristics, access to healthcare, and other factors may be involved. Obesity was found to be protective in patients with advanced-stage disease, contradicting earlier assumptions.
Researchers at UAB have discovered the genetic identity of a cellular receptor for the immune system's first-response antibody, shedding light on infection control and immune disorders. The discovery proposes renaming the gene linked to this receptor to better describe its role in early immune responses.
Researchers at UAB used fMRI to analyze the brain's response to surprising sounds, finding activity in the frontal lobe controls emotional expression. The study aims to develop biological markers using fMRI that can help identify and treat PTSD sufferers.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has been awarded $11.5 million to identify adolescents and young adults infected with HIV and link them to medical care. The grants will focus on two initiatives: improving HIV testing in youth and developing behavioral strategies for prevention.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has received a $2.1 million National Science Foundation grant to provide professional development programs for middle-school math teachers and research their impact. The program aims to improve teacher performance, energize classrooms, and get students excited about math.
A study by UAB exercise physiologists found that just 80 minutes of aerobic or resistance training per week can help prevent a regain of harmful visceral fat one year after weight loss. Participants who continued exercising maintained zero percent visceral fat, while those who stopped exercising saw a 33% increase.
A new national network, TETRAD, will create a large database of treatment-response data and repository of DNA and blood cells from RA patients. This effort aims to predict which drugs will work best for individual patients and improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of current treatments.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Comprehensive Cancer Center has won an $11.5 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to explore groundbreaking cervical cancer research, prevention, and treatment. The grant will focus on next-generation human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines for cervical cancer prevention and test therapeu...
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has been awarded $431,200 to acquire a highly-specialized X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy System with micro-scale-imaging capabilities. This will enable researchers to visualize surface chemical composition and bonding capabilities of newly designed materials.
A new study from UAB researchers found that childbearing is associated with a higher incidence of the metabolic syndrome in women. Women who had gestational diabetes were nearly twice as likely to develop the syndrome as those without it. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and healthy eating, may help prevent disease later in life.
A new study from UAB researchers suggests that individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) who struggle with financial management skills may be at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. The study found that MCI patients who declined in financial capacity over a year were more likely to progress to Alzheimer's.
Researchers aim to reduce isolation and depression among seniors by training them to use the Internet and social media. The study also focuses on increasing access to health information, making it easier for older adults to stay healthy.
Researchers at UAB found that preventive antibiotic TB therapy for HIV-infected patients is approximately $950 per case, compared to a previously reported range of $900-$1500 for treating new smear-positive TB cases. The integrated care approach also offers economic benefits by reducing productivity losses and preventing the spread of TB.
Researchers at UAB are investigating genetic factors that contribute to suicidal behavior, focusing on the role of serotonin 2C and ADAR proteins. The study aims to develop diagnostic tests that can identify individuals at high risk of suicide and tailor therapies accordingly.
Researchers found that kudzu root's isoflavones, particularly puerarin, improve regulation of metabolic syndrome contributors. The substance regulates glucose in the blood by steering it to beneficial places like muscles, away from fat cells and blood vessels.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham has won a two-year grant from the National Science Foundation to train teachers in using XO laptops for math and science education. The goal is to extend laptop use beyond basic tasks and increase the number of minority students entering the STEM career pipeline.
A new study reveals that 95% of older drivers (ages 55+) have medical conditions and take medications, yet only 28% are aware of the potential impact on their driving ability. The researchers emphasize the need for increased education and awareness among health professionals and patients to address this critical issue.
A new UAB study found that novice parents identified less than half of the safety hazards in a simulated home environment. Parents recognized only 47% of the hazards and considered their own children as being invulnerable to injuries.
A recent study from UAB and Southern Research Institute reveals that the M2 protein in influenza viruses damages lung epithelial cells, leading to fluid buildup and breathing difficulties. By understanding this mechanism, researchers hope to develop new treatments to prevent or minimize flu damage.
Researchers at UAB will explore next-generation technology to improve the service life of total joint replacements, potentially reducing recurrent surgical procedures. The partnership with Smith and Nephew Inc. will provide access to state-of-the-art testing equipment and expertise.
Recent JAMA studies on brain cancer and altered genes have made significant progress in understanding the root causes of this deadly disease. Researchers identified seven genes linked to survival among glioblastoma multiforme patients, paving the way for potential new therapies.
Undergraduate researchers at UAB have developed a computer program that teaches CPR using hand-held remote controls from the Nintendo Wii video game console. The American Heart Association has pledged $50,000 to fund the project and make it available as an open source code download.