Rudolph's application of physiology to congenital heart disease significantly advanced understanding of normal and abnormal heart development in newborn humans. His research led to the development of new diagnostic and treatment methods for congenital heart defects.
Scientists discover that breast tumors produce high levels of a fetal form of insulin receptor, stimulating rapid cell division and cancer growth. The finding offers a potential target for new cancer drugs, which could block or slow breast tumor growth.
A new mathematical model suggests that annual antibiotic treatments will not be enough to eradicate trachoma in areas with high incidence rates. The model predicts that these areas, which account for only 10% of total affected regions, will experience a higher rate of blindness due to reinfection.
UCSF researchers identified a signaling cascade that regulates steroidogenic factor 1, a nuclear receptor involved in sexual differentiation and stress response. The finding suggests a ligand-independent mechanism of action for SF-1, potentially explaining resistance to hormone therapies in certain cancers.
A new study by UC San Francisco health policy researchers found that patient characteristics and clinical practices significantly impact hospital resource use for liver transplantation. The study suggests guidelines to standardize resource use may lower costs, while findings highlight the need to reduce variations in practice patterns.
A new clinical study has found that a combination of exercise and moderate doses of male hormones can benefit men with HIV-wasting syndrome by building up lean tissue. The study showed significant increases in lean body mass and muscle strength, regardless of whether patients were undergoing treatment with HIV anti-retroviral drugs.
Researchers at UCSF Cancer Research Institute have made an observation that could explain the ability of modified cold virus ONYX-015 to kill cancer cells. The finding suggests that ONYX-015 targets a genetic vulnerability in tumor cells, specifically those with mutations or defects in p53 and p14ARF genes.
A new study found that anabolic steroids can increase lean body mass and reduce fatigue in kidney disease patients receiving dialysis. Patients who received the steroid gained an average of 5.7 pounds more lean body mass than those on placebo, scoring better on physical performance tests.
A new 'stress-sharing' prosthetic device has been shown to stimulate bone development and prevent loosening and failure in patients with cancer. The device directs forces on the leg bone rather than the metal implant, reducing the risk of complications and allowing patients to function long-term.
A nationwide survey of internists found that up to 50% of physicians in managed care settings failed to prescribe recommended services, while 39% in fee-for-service settings did so. Financial incentives led to a decrease in ordering tests and referrals.
A new report reveals that many heroin overdose deaths can be prevented with prompt medical attention and treatment. The study highlights the effectiveness of methadone maintenance programs in reducing overdose-related deaths. By increasing access to these programs, the US can combat its heroin epidemic.
A study by UC San Francisco researchers found that adolescent smokers incur more severe DNA damage than adult smokers, which can increase the risk of lung cancer. The study, published in Journal of the National Cancer Institute, suggests that smoking during adolescence may produce physiologic changes leading to persistent DNA damage.
The Pediatric Brain Tumor Consortium, sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, aims to speed the development of innovative treatments for children with brain tumors. The consortium brings together experts from eight institutions to conceive, develop and carry out pilot studies and early trials of promising new therapies.
Scientists find that telomerase enzyme contributes to chromosome stability beyond telomere length, offering a new target for extending cell life span and combating cancer. The discovery suggests a novel approach to manipulating the enzyme for therapeutic purposes.
A study of California physicians reveals mixed support for the state's law requiring suspected domestic violence cases to be reported to authorities. The majority believe the law creates barriers to care and violates patient confidentiality, which could deter victims from seeking help or jeopardize their safety.
Beta catenin disrupts cell regulation by synthesizing cyclin D1, allowing cells to proliferate out of control. The finding offers a potential new target for drug therapy in colon and other cancers.
Researchers have identified a receptor protein in rodents and humans that can detect temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, expanding the range of temperatures for which nerve receptors are known. The discovery holds promise for better understanding pain and developing drugs to block pain.
A new way to immunize against the Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterium has been developed, providing a fresh alternative to antibiotics in fighting this deadly microbe. The antibody blocks the toxin delivery system, allowing lung cells to mount a defense and prevent delivery of toxins.
Dr. Alex Sherriffs, a UCSF-Fresno Medical Education Program faculty member, has been recognized with the 1999 Award for Educational Excellence from the California Academy of Family Physicians Foundation. He is praised for his commitment to education and his ability to provide excellent mentorship to medical students.
A new ventilator treatment has been shown to significantly reduce mortality among victims of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) by 25%. The treatment involves providing smaller breaths of oxygen-rich air, which may protect the lung from injury. This life-saving breakthrough could save thousands of lives annually.
Researchers at UCSF discovered a molecular trigger that initiates uncontrolled mucus production, affecting millions worldwide. They suggest targeting this messenger to develop strategies to control mucus production and prevent airway blockage.
More than 25 topics requested by Bay Area women will be discussed at the symposium, including women's sexual health, herbal remedies, and menopause. Teen Health 2000 will cover topics such as body image, advocacy, race, contraception, and STDs.
A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that depressed older women are twice as likely to experience spinal fractures and have a 30% greater risk of non-spinal fractures compared to non-depressed women. The more symptoms of depression, the higher the risk of fracture.
A rigorous evaluation of the hospitalist model is necessary to assess its impact on patient outcomes, costs, and provider satisfaction. The UCSF researchers recommend a comprehensive evaluation framework that includes process and outcome measures.
A study by researchers at UCSF Medical Center found that the electrocardiogram is highly inaccurate for patients with left bundle-branch block (LBBB), leading to under-treatment. This affects approximately 100,000 Americans with LBBB who experience myocardial infarction every year.
A study of 1,208 young physicians found that women doctors married to other doctors worked fewer hours, earned less money, and took on more family responsibilities. In contrast, men MD2s also experienced benefits, including higher family incomes and successful spouses' careers.
A survey of nearly 1,000 primary care providers found that those with more experience were more likely to recommend evidence-based treatments for HIV. The study suggests that patients with HIV should have access to experienced physicians who can provide high-quality care.
A decade of anti-smoking campaigns in California show that aggressive ad campaigns exposing the tobacco industry's hypocrisy are key to success, while support from health advocacy groups is crucial for their effectiveness. The campaigns led to rapid drops in cigarette smoking in the state.
Researchers found that urine tests can detect asymptomatic STDs in adolescent girls, leading to earlier treatment and prevention of serious complications like PID. This could expand screening to more teens, particularly boys, and reduce costs compared to traditional pelvic exams.
A new computer keyboard design with modified key switches has been shown to reduce hand pain and numbness in frequent users. The study, conducted by researchers at UCSF and UC Berkeley, found a significant reduction in symptoms after 12 weeks of use.
A new UCSF study reveals that women are as likely as men to agree to a doctor's recommendation for an invasive cardiac procedure after testing positive for heart disease. The study also found that men and women reported similar willingness to accept recommendations for coronary angioplasty or coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Researchers found that HIV can infect cells lacking the CD4 receptor by forming a receptor complex with co-receptors like CCR5 or CXCR4. This expands the range of potential targets for drug therapies aimed at preventing HIV spread.
Research reveals that the AIDS virus in cerebrospinal fluid evolves independently of the virus in the blood, leading to two genetically distinct forms. This finding suggests that drugs effective against HIV-1 in blood may not be effective in the central nervous system, and vice versa.
A study reveals a dramatic rise in oral warts among HIV patients treated with protease inhibitors, which are effective against HIV. The researchers found that these warts were difficult to control and highly prone to recurrence, causing discomfort and affecting eating habits.
Researchers identified HIV's key molecular site in the brain and colon as CCR5 co-receptor. This finding suggests a potential target for preventing virus entry into these tissues and possibly others.
A crucial molecular dance has been identified as the primary driver of pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable lung inflammation. Researchers discovered that a protein called integrin activates TGF Beta, leading to excessive fibrous scarring in lungs.
Researchers found two embryonic genes essential for fetal bone formation also play a crucial role in adult fracture repair. The study's findings shed light on the molecular mechanisms of bone healing and have the potential to develop targeted, injection-based therapies.
Researchers discovered that auto-antibodies play a direct role in the development of multiple sclerosis by destroying myelin sheaths. The study, published in Nature Medicine, suggests that antibodies produced by B cells are responsible for breaking down myelin, a key component of nerve fibers.
The discovery of the Hephaestin gene offers insight into a cause of iron-deficiency anemia, revealing an intimate relationship between copper and iron metabolism. The protein facilitates transport of iron from the intestines to the body's circulatory system.
The UCSF report reveals significant variations in cardiovascular risk factors among different ethnic/racial groups and regions in California. High blood pressure and diabetes rates are disproportionately affecting African Americans and Hispanics, with 41.5% of African American men and 35% of African American women having high blood pre...
A UCSF study found that 11.7% of medical students sustained possible exposure to blood-borne diseases like HIV and hepatitis through accidental needlesticks, highlighting the need for greater supervision and training programs.
Researchers found HIV's impact on T-cell production and its role in the immune system. The study involved measuring daily rates of new T-cell production in HIV-negative adults and those with suppressed virus, revealing a surprising increase in new cell production responsible for increased T-cell counts.
Patients are willing to disclose behavior that puts them at risk for conditions ranging from HIV to domestic violence, regardless of the method used. The study's findings suggest that doctors can initiate discussions about sensitive subjects without worrying about patient willingness.
A UCSF study shows that alendronate significantly reduced the risk of spine and hip fractures by almost half among postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The drug also improved bone density in these women, reducing the risk of fractures by 30 percent compared to placebo.
Asthma researchers identified two molecules, interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, that connect to a specific receptor and initiate inflammation, increasing the number of goblet cells producing excessive mucus. This finding paves the way for developing more effective treatments that control the disease at its cellular level.
A new study by researchers at UCSF found that bartenders who worked in smoke-free conditions after the ban reported significant drops in coughing and other respiratory problems. Lung function also improved after the implementation of the smoke-free workplace law.
Researchers created genetically altered mice that exhibit anxiety to study the serotonin system's contribution to anxiety and depression. The model could help develop more refined targets for psychiatric drugs and provide insights into inherited personality disorders.
A clinical trial demonstrates that TPO, administered with G-CSF, boosts stem cell migration and increases the number of patients eligible for autologous stem cell transplantation. The treatment significantly improves re-growth of blood cells after chemotherapy.
By increasing sound processing speed in adult rats, researchers gained insight into brain mechanisms linked to language impairments and dyslexia. The study demonstrates the brain's 'plasticity' and suggests that neurons can be altered to improve efficiency in processing sounds.
The new report reveals that drug overdoses and poisonings cause one-third of injury deaths in San Francisco. The city's injury rates are lower than Oakland but higher than Los Angeles and San Jose, while the leading causes of injury death include firearms, falls, and motor vehicle accidents.