A randomized clinical trial found that patients who knowingly took placebos were more likely to stay on methadone and had improved sleep quality. After three months of follow-up, 78% of the placebo-treated group remained on methadone compared to 61% of the control group.
Researchers found that traumatic brain injury suppresses the recycling function of both neurons and immune cells, including microglia and white blood cells. Boosting this process with a drug like rapamycin improves recovery in mice, reducing inflammation and enhancing memory function.
A new study by the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that ChatGPT provides correct information on breast cancer screening for most questions. However, inconsistencies and outdated information were detected in some responses. The researchers recommend relying on doctors for advice due to the limitations of ChatGPT.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine are using mRNA vaccine technology to combat various infectious diseases. A new clinical trial aims to test an mRNA-based vaccine against malaria, with hopes for a rapid adaptive response to virus evolution and the manufacture of combination vaccines.
Global virus network experts propose changes to global polio eradication strategy, emphasizing the need for high vaccination coverage and adaptable policies. They suggest using both inactivated and live, weakened vaccines, as well as reconvening a scientific advisory group to respond to new data and public health emergencies.
A new study using mice reveals that genetic mutations associated with increased risk of abdominal aneurysms, a 'silent killer' condition responsible for nearly 5,000 deaths annually. The findings could lead to earlier detection methods and screening for predisposed patients.
A new study led by University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers found that focused ultrasound treatment significantly reduced tremors and improved mobility in Parkinson's patients. Nearly 70% of treated patients showed a successful response after three months, with two-thirds continuing to respond a year later.
Researchers have unveiled the structure of DREADDs, a neural tool that enables precise control over neurons. The new findings will allow for further refinement and optimization of the tool, paving the way for innovative treatments for brain disorders such as schizophrenia, substance abuse, and Alzheimer's.
A recent study found that PrEP was well received by justice-involved individuals, demonstrating high uptake among those eligible. The approach provided HIV prevention services to a large proportion of incarcerated people, including men aged 25-29 years.
A University of Maryland School of Medicine physician-scientist leads a research program to develop a bio-synthetic whole-blood product for easy use in the field, potentially saving thousands of lives. The product will be designed to stabilize blood pressure and facilitate blood clotting.
Scientists have identified pericytes, a type of cell, that sense local energy needs and signal blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow. This process helps direct the brain's energy resources to support everyday functions.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that monoclonal antibody CIS43LS provided high levels of protection against controlled human malaria infection. The study's findings suggest that this treatment could be a potential game changer for deploying monoclonal antibody therapies in African countries.
The American Thoracic Society has issued new guidelines to help prevent future lung injuries from vaping. The report highlights the need for more research on the mechanisms of EVALI, as well as safer standards for e-liquid formulations.
A new clinical trial of over 12,000 patients found that inexpensive aspirin is just as effective as injectable blood thinners in preventing life-threatening blood clots and other complications. The study suggests that surgeons may change their practice to administer aspirin to patients hospitalized with bone fractures.
A new three-dose malaria vaccine demonstrated safety and efficacy in adults living with endemic malaria in Burkina Faso, providing up to 48% protection. Researchers reduced the number of required injections from five shots to three while improving vaccine efficacy.
A global analysis of over 32 million cardiovascular deaths found that extreme temperatures increase the risk of heart failure deaths. People with heart failure are most likely to be negatively impacted by very cold and very hot days.
Researchers propose that the claustrum functions as an internet router, amplifying and broadcasting signals to facilitate cognitive tasks. This theory challenges Francis Crick's idea that the claustrum is the seat of consciousness, suggesting a more distributed role in awareness.
Researchers report new findings from a landmark transplant, showing unexpected heart conduction measures that did not contribute to failure. The study suggests genetic modifications made to the pig's heart were not responsible for causing these changes.
Researchers identified how SARS-CoV-2's Nsp6 protein damages heart cells, hijacking their metabolism to cause damage. A drug, 2-deoxy-D-glucose, reduced this damage by blocking sugar metabolism, offering a potential treatment for long-term COVID-19 complications.
A new study by University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers found that girls aged 13 or younger who get pregnant have significantly higher risks of preterm birth, cesarean delivery, and ICU admission compared to older pregnant teens. These young girls experience increased health complications due to their age.
The Institute of Human Virology has received $7.5 million in NCI grants to combat lung cancer and anal precancer in Botswana and Nigeria, respectively. The studies will utilize existing HIV treatment infrastructure to reach at-risk populations and contribute to global cancer control.
A new study found that frail seniors often use public transportation to get to doctor appointments due to inadequate accessibility. The study highlights the pressing need to improve public transit infrastructure and services in cities to support an aging population.
A randomized clinical trial involving over 1,600 patients found that two antiseptic solutions are equally effective in preventing post-surgical infections. The study provides reassurance to orthopedic surgeons and helps improve practice of evidence-based medicine.
Researchers identified genes that affect immune system response and replication of SARS-CoV-2 virus. Missing ORF3a/b gene led to milder infections, while missing ORF8 gene worsened lung inflammation. Spike protein severity varied across variants, with mutations in accessory proteins altering clinical presentation.
The University of Maryland School of Medicine and UMBC have been awarded a 5-year, $13.7 million NIH grant to enhance efforts in recruiting and training junior faculty from underrepresented groups in biomedical science. The grant aims to build self-reinforcing communities of scientists committed to diversity and inclusive excellence.
A new study identified a specific enzyme, PDE11A, responsible for memory loss in social interactions with age. By manipulating this enzyme, researchers may develop therapies to prevent or reverse age-related cognitive decline.
Research linked blood type to early-onset stroke risk in young adults under 60. People with blood type A had a 16% higher risk, while those with blood type O had a 12% lower risk of having an early stroke. The study suggests potential new ways to predict and prevent strokes in young adults.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that ketamine's antidepressant response in mice is influenced by male administrators. The team discovered a specific brain region, corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), responsible for this effect, suggesting new ways to improve antidepressant therapy.
Researchers created mouse models with gene mutations linked to a rare seizure disorder, finding that two types of changes increase electrical signals and lead to symptoms. The findings provide new insights into the disease mechanism and suggest potential treatment options, including stimulants.
Research found that breastfed premature infants have improved gut barrier function and nutrient absorption due to the presence of Bifidobacterium breve. This strain strengthens the intestinal wall, protecting against disease. The discovery could lead to promising clinical interventions to increase survival rates of vulnerable preemies.
Scientists found a full bacterial genome of Wolbachia transferred into the fruit fly Drosophila ananassae, expanding chromosome size by 20%. Long-read sequencing technology revealed functional RNA and edited sequences indicating that genetic material is active.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine found that cells lining the heart direct cardiac muscle growth and outlined a complex mechanism regulating this process. The discovery may help develop better techniques for regenerating heart tissue and prevent congenital heart defects.
A new study finds that children who get less than nine hours of sleep per night have significant differences in certain brain regions compared to those who get the recommended amount. The study also linked inadequate sleep to greater mental health problems, like depression, anxiety, and impulsive behaviors.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine have developed a new method to test malaria vaccines that mimics natural exposure, increasing efficiency and accuracy. The study found the vaccine to be effective in both controlled clinical settings and in the field, with promising results for future mass vaccination programs.
A recent six-country African study reveals that pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 are at double the risk of ICU admission and four times the risk of dying compared to non-pregnant counterparts. The researchers emphasize the need for pregnant women to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to protect themselves and their unborn children.
Researchers at the University of Maryland School of Medicine conducted a groundbreaking xenotransplant surgery, implanting a genetically modified pig heart into a 57-year-old patient with terminal heart disease. The patient survived for two months with a strong functioning heart showing no obvious signs of rejection.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that more than 70% of primary care physicians reported prescribing antibiotics to treat asymptomatic bacteria in urine tests, defying medical guidelines. This practice can lead to adverse health effects and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Researchers study how brain regions work together to train and perform new skills in laboratory rats. The rats develop unique 'dances' that are essential for performing the task, but these are lost when disrupting connections between brain areas.
A study conducted in six sub-Saharan African countries found high mortality rates among hospitalized children and adolescents with COVID-19. The research highlights the need for targeted resources to fight the pandemic in Africa.
Researchers identified a powerful combination of antivirals that inhibit the growth of SARS-CoV-2 virus in human lung cells and mice. The combination of brequinar with either remdesivir or molnupiravir was found to be more potent than individual drugs, suggesting potential for reducing hospitalizations and deaths.
A University of Maryland School of Medicine study finds that a common ADHD medication, lisdexamfetamine, reduces symptoms of a rare genetic movement disorder in children, including collapsing episodes and improvements in speech and concentration. The treatment may also shed light on the mechanisms behind other neuromuscular diseases.
University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers have developed a technique to consistently and reproducibly open the blood-brain barrier in mice. This advancement provides a way to better test potential therapeutics for brain cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and mental illness.
A new study in mice suggests that an unhealthy vaginal microbiome in pregnant mothers can increase pup deaths and alter development in surviving babies. A healthier diet rich in fiber-containing fruits and vegetables may counteract these effects, particularly in vulnerable populations.
The Novavax COVID-19 vaccine has been shown to be highly efficacious and safe, with a 90% efficacy rate in preventing COVID-19 illness. The vaccine was also found to be 100% effective in preventing moderate and severe disease requiring hospitalization.
Researchers have discovered a genetic variant associated with lower LDL cholesterol and fibrinogen levels, significantly reducing the risk of heart disease in the Amish population. The variant is found in nearly 12% of those living in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania.
The University of Maryland School of Medicine has been awarded a $6.5M grant to develop a treatment for alcoholic liver disease-associated kidney dysfunction. The Institute of Human Virology and MitoPower will conduct clinical trials to test the safety and efficacy of MP-04, a lead compound in treating HRS.
Researchers from the University of Maryland School of Medicine and NIH found that retinoid therapy improved vision in mice with Usher syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. The study identified key functions of protocadherin-15, which helps recycle molecules essential for eye tissue.
Researchers at University of Maryland School of Medicine's Institute of Human Virology will use the grant to collect and analyze COVID-19 and HIV data from Nigeria and South Africa. The INFORM Africa project aims to provide new insights into virus mobility and impact, enabling governments to better respond to pandemics.
Researchers have detected antibodies primarily made in response to mucous membrane infections, not typically thought of as a blood and liver infection, in study participants with malaria. The discovery provides new insight into the human body's response to malaria and may help identify new ways to treat or develop vaccines.
Researchers at University of Maryland School of Medicine discovered that air pollution causes inflammation in the brain, leading to reduced sperm counts in mice. The findings suggest it may be possible to develop treatments for various medical conditions caused by air pollution.