A 16-year-old student, Matthew Lara, will present his research on the predictors of survival for younger patients with non-small-cell lung cancer at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) meeting. His study found that younger patients tend to have better survival rates than older patients.
Researchers at UC Davis have discovered a novel molecular target, TSPO, to design safer and more effective drugs for multiple sclerosis (MS) and other conditions. The study found that anti-anxiety drug etifoxine interacts with TSPO to improve MS symptoms in lab mice models.
A consortium of scientists found that breathing ultrafine particles from engineered nanomaterials can cause lung inflammation and damage. The study examined the health effects of two types of nanomaterials and showed similar findings across different labs.
A commentary by UC Davis bioethicist Mark Yarborough proposes increasing transparency about the social value of individual research studies to enhance informed consent and build public trust. The commentary aims to promote more awareness about the potential benefits and drawbacks of participating in clinical trials.
A randomized trial found that home-based health education increased HBV screening rates and knowledge about the disease among Hmong Americans, overcoming cultural and language barriers. The study suggests using lay health workers to improve access to screenings and diagnoses.
A new study found that computer-assisted detection (CAD) in mammograms improves the detection of noninvasive and early-stage invasive breast cancer, but also makes more mistakes. CAD was associated with higher rates of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) diagnoses and increased diagnostic testing among women without breast cancer.
Children with fragile X syndrome showed significant improvements in general behavior, anxiety, and mood-related behaviors after three months of minocycline treatment. The study provides evidence for the efficacy of minocycline as a targeted treatment for fragile X syndrome.
The UC Davis MIND Institute has received a prestigious Autism Centers of Excellence Award to establish an Autism Center of Excellence and Treatment Network, led by Sally J. Rogers. The award supports two treatment studies on the most effective methods of treating very young children with autism.
A team of UC Davis scientists found that epoxy docosapentaenoic acid (EDP) inhibits angiogenesis, cutting off oxygen and nutrients that fuel tumor growth. EDP reduces the growth and spread of tumors in mice by starving them of necessary blood vessels.
Researchers at UC Davis have identified a key protein pathway that distinguishes between harmless and harmful bacteria. The innate immune system recognizes specific sensing proteins that detect invading pathogens, triggering an alarm response to mobilize immune functions.
Researchers have discovered that 37% of the placental genome has regions of lower methylation, called partially methylated domains (PMDs), where gene expression is turned off. This could enhance our understanding of epigenetics and its impact on human development, cancer research and autism.
A UC Davis study found large variation in the use of metal inferior vena cava filters among California hospitals, despite little evidence of their safety and effectiveness. The researchers recommend additional research to determine if the devices improve outcomes for patients with venous thromboembolism.
Researchers found that blocking an enzyme promoting inflammation can prevent cardiac tissue damage and fibrosis after a heart attack. The study's results show improved cardiac function and reduced inflammatory factors in mice treated with the compound.
Researchers at UC Davis developed a nomogram to calculate individual patient risk of post-surgical venous thromboembolism, allowing clinicians to tailor prevention efforts. The study analyzed over 470,000 surgical patients and identified factors increasing blood clot risk, including age, BMI, and splenectomies.
Researchers monitored sleeping adolescents' brain waves, finding that synaptic density in the cerebral cortex peaks at age 8 and declines until adulthood. EEG sleep analysis identifies crucial aspects of adolescent brain maturation.
A groundbreaking study explores the psychological impact of parental deportation on US-born children, who face separation from their families and uncertain futures. The research aims to understand what circumstances lead to better or worse outcomes for these children.
A large nationwide study found that female doctors' patients do not use health-care services more frequently than those treated by male doctors, contradicting previous investigations. The study suggests focusing on factors like smoking and diet to influence health-care utilization and mortality.
A UC Davis survey of over 1,600 gun retailers found that they frequently encounter and refuse attempts to make illegal purchases, but often fail to report them to law enforcement. Retailers support harsh sentences for both buyers and sellers involved in illicit activities.
A natural product called genistein-combined polysaccharide (GCP) may help patients with metastatic prostate cancer live longer by blocking a key mechanism used by prostate cancer cells to survive. GCP is expected to be effective in treating patients with low response to androgen-deprivation therapy.
MIND Institute researchers will examine whether children and youth with fragile X syndrome can improve their working memory, cognition, and behavior using an online computer-based cognitive training program. The four-year study aims to determine the efficacy of this intervention in improving working memory skills and potentially behavior.
A study by UC Davis researchers found that vascular brain injury, not amyloid plaques, has the greatest impact on cognitive domains. Vascular brain injury was associated with worse memory and executive function, while amyloid deposition had little to no effect.
Experts recommend physicians engage in gun policy dialogue, leveraging their skills in managing fears and providing mental health treatment. They can influence Congress through collective advocacy and lead by example.
Researchers at UC Davis have uncovered a biological mechanism by which harmful bacteria thrive in the guts of those with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The discovery may lead to new treatments with fewer side effects than current therapies, targeting molecular pathways that generate nitric oxide and nitrate.
A recent study found that deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHoH) physicians spend significant personal time arranging for accommodations, highlighting the need for institutional support. The survey of 56 DHoH clinicians revealed that adapting accommodations to individual needs is key to success.
A study of over 12,000 children has identified seven factors that can help physicians determine if a CT scan is necessary following blunt trauma to the abdomen. Children with none of these factors have only a 0.1% chance of having an abdominal injury requiring acute intervention.
Researchers found abnormal proteins in gluteal fat, which secretes chemerin and reduces omentin-1 levels. These proteins correlate with increased inflammation, insulin resistance, and heart disease risk. The study dispels the myth that pear-shaped bodies are healthier than apple-shaped ones.
A new UC Davis study reveals that workers earning the lowest wages are at a higher risk of developing hypertension, particularly among women and younger workers. The research found that doubling wages can decrease the risk of hypertension by up to 30%.
Garen Wintemute believes broader background checks and denials on gun purchases can reduce harm and ensure public safety. He cites research showing that individuals with a history of misdemeanor violent crime are nine times more likely to be arrested for violence later.
Researchers have discovered a higher frequency of the fragile X genetic defect in newborns than previously believed, with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 200 females and 1 in 400 males. The study's findings suggest that large-scale newborn screening for the defect is technically feasible using blood spots from infant heel pricks.
Researchers discovered HER2-positive breast cancer stem cells in previously thought HER2-negative tumors, making these cells resistant to traditional treatments. The findings suggest that targeted therapies can effectively treat HER2-negative breast cancers, while also providing a new diagnostic tool.
A recent UC Davis study reveals that general thoracic surgeons perform the majority of complex noncardiac thoracic surgeries, including esophageal and lung procedures. The research supports the recognition of general thoracic surgery as a distinct specialty, benefiting patients in selecting surgeons for specific procedures.
A panel of experts recommends more research on the health effects of medical imaging and ways to reduce unnecessary CT tests, as well as industry standardization of CT machines. The experts stress that despite widespread public concern about radiation risks, the biologic effects from medical imaging tests are not entirely understood.
A study has identified two genetic factors linked to sagittal craniosynostosis, a condition causing premature skull closure. The findings may lead to prenatal screening and diagnostic tests or early interventions to prevent the condition.
A study published in Environmental Health found that family members and preschool children are at high risk for exposure to toxic compounds such as arsenic, pesticides, and acrylamide. The researchers suggest dietary modifications can mitigate risk, including eating organic produce and limiting consumption of animal meat and fats.
Researchers found that targeting CD22 protein on lung cancer cells reduces tumor growth and metastasis in mouse models, leading to improved survival rates. The discovery may lead to the development of a novel therapy for non-small cell lung cancer.
A new study found that high blood pressure causes structural damage to the brain's white matter and gray matter, even among young adults. The research suggests that vascular brain injury develops insidiously over time, leading to accelerated brain aging and a higher risk of cognitive decline.
Researchers studied over 1,600 women for 10 years and found no correlation between dietary phytoestrogens or fiber intake and the onset of menopausal symptoms. Despite previous hypotheses that a diet high in phytoestrogens would reduce symptoms, the study suggests that finding a clinically significant effect would be unlikely.
A new study found that reducing symptoms of depression in heart failure patients can improve their physical health, social functioning and quality of life. Participants whose depression remitted had significant improvements on measures of physical health, including endurance.
A nationwide study found that intensive early intervention therapy can normalize brain activity, decrease autism symptoms and improve social skills in young children with autism. The therapy, called Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), was effective in improving cognition and language skills among very young children with autism.
Researchers at UC Davis have developed a novel drug delivery system using nanoparticles that targets bladder cancer cells, allowing for higher doses of chemotherapy while reducing side effects. The system also enables diagnostic imaging, offering potential benefits for advanced bladder cancer treatment and management.
Researchers discovered a second step in the light receptor process that corrects for rhodopsin errors, resulting in more accurate reading of light under dim conditions. This finding has long-term significance for understanding and treating vision deficits.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 27 studies found a strong correlation between psoriasis and an increased risk of developing diabetes. Patients with severe psoriasis are nearly twice as likely to have diabetes compared to the general population.
A new study by UC Davis researchers found that induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) share significant similarities with malignant cancer cells, highlighting the need for caution in clinical use. The findings suggest that iPSCs could cause cancer and may require additional safety measures before they can be used to treat diseases.
A nationwide study found that primary-care physicians earn an average of $2.8 million less than their specialist colleagues over a lifetime, potentially discouraging medical students from pursuing primary care. The study's authors recommend reducing pay disparities to ensure adequate access to primary care.
A clinical trial found that arbaclofen improved symptoms of social withdrawal and challenging behaviors in individuals with fragile X syndrome. The study suggests the compound may also be effective for autism spectrum disorder, offering new hope for treatment options.
A study of over 1,000 children found that Hispanic kids are more likely to be diagnosed with developmental delay than expected, highlighting the need for increased awareness and culturally relevant information. The results also suggest that bilingual children who receive secondary language exposure may have lower cognitive scores.
Researchers have identified a cellular pathway for the effects of alpha hydroxyl acids on keratinocytes, leading to skin exfoliation. The study reveals that glycolic acid triggers an acidic environment within cells, activating the TRPV3 ion channel and causing calcium ion overload, resulting in cell death.
Scientists have discovered how a defective gene causes brain changes leading to atypical social behavior characteristic of autism. The research found that abnormal action of the gene disrupted energy use in neurons, resulting in antisocial and repetitive behavior traits found in autism.
A recent study by researchers at UC Davis found that white children are more likely to receive cranial CT scans following minor head trauma compared to Hispanic and African-American children. This may be due to unnecessary radiation exposure, as white children were more likely to have parental anxiety cited as a reason for the scan.
Children with low serum albumin levels are at a moderately increased risk of graft failure after kidney transplant, according to new research from UC Davis. The study found that even a single low serum albumin measurement can be a clear risk factor for future graft failure.