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University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus


CU researchers: Fast MRIs offer alternative to CT scans for pediatric head injuries

Researchers at CU School of Medicine have developed a new imaging method called 'fast MRI' that can effectively identify traumatic brain injuries in children without exposing them to ionizing radiation or anesthesia. The study found that fast MRI was completed successfully in nearly all cases, with accuracy similar to CT scans.

Physicians report high refusal rates for the HPV vaccine and need for improvement

A study from the University of Colorado School of Medicine found that physicians' delivery and communication practices must improve to boost HPV vaccine completion rates. Pediatricians who strongly recommend the vaccine have higher acceptance rates, and optimizing HPV delivery through standing orders and alert systems can also help.

Nobel Laureate, Tom Cech, Ph.D., suggests new way to target third most common oncogene, TERT

Researchers have identified a new way to target the third most common oncogene, TERT. The study reveals that TERT messenger RNA is held up in the nucleus, and keeping it trapped could be an effective strategy for treating cancer. This discovery offers a promising new approach in the fight against TERT over-activation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2019

CU School of Medicine researcher makes key finding related to pre-mRNA splicing

A study led by CU School of Medicine researcher Rui Zhao sheds light on the mechanism of pre-mRNA splicing, a complex process that converts precursor mRNA into mature mRNA for protein production. The research proposes a unified model explaining three fundamental phenomena in pre-mRNA splicing without requiring different spliceosomes.

Veterans with traumatic brain injuries have higher suicide risk

A study of over 1.4 million military veterans found that those with moderate or severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) are more likely to die by suicide, with a significant increase in firearm use as a means of suicide. The researchers emphasize the importance of screening for lifetime history of TBI to prevent future deaths by suicide.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalJournal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation·DateAug 1, 2019

Expectant mothers can mitigate the impact of marijuana on baby's brain development

A recent study found that higher maternal Choline levels during pregnancy can prevent fetal brain developmental problems caused by marijuana use. Infants exposed to prenatal marijuana had decreased cerebral nervous system inhibition and lower 'regulation' scores, leading to attention and social function problems later in life.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalPsychological Medicine·DateJul 31, 2019

Greater prevalence of congenital heart defects in high intensity oil and gas areas

A new study found mothers living near intense oil and gas development have a 40-70% higher chance of having children with congenital heart defects. The study analyzed 3,324 infants born in Colorado from 2005-2011, estimating monthly intensity of well activity to confirm positive associations between maternal exposure and CHDs.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalEnvironment International·DateJul 18, 2019

ASCO 2019: 40-50 percent response rate for brigatinib after other next-gen ALK inhibitors

A new study presented at ASCO 2019 shows that brigatinib is effective in patients who have received another next-generation ALK inhibitor. The 40-50 percent response rate suggests that brigatinib may be a useful treatment option for these patients. Detailed molecular analyses will help determine the characteristics of patients sensitiv...

Chronic kidney disease epidemic may be result of high heat, toxins

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that climate change may be contributing to a mysterious epidemic of chronic kidney disease among agricultural workers. The researchers found that heat exposure and heavy labor are common factors in the disease, which is also linked to toxins such as glyphosate and lead.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMay 8, 2019