Researchers found that increased wave reflections are predictive of cardiovascular events and congestive heart failure, even with small increases in magnitude. This measure surpassed established risk factors like hypertension in predicting heart failure risk.
A new microelectronic device developed by a Penn-led team can record brain activity at high resolutions, revolutionizing brain-computer interfaces for treating neurological and psychiatric illnesses. The device's flexibility and multiplexed nanosensors enable precise mapping of brain networks underlying normal function and disease.
A study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that even trained individuals lack confidence in performing CPR due to inadequate hands-on practice time. Introducing 'hands-only' CPR techniques improved confidence among subjects.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine reveals that discussions about cardiac arrest on Twitter can provide valuable opportunities for public health education. The researchers found that users frequently share information about CPR and AEDs, as well as discuss resuscitation topics in the news.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered that two types of intestinal stem cells are related and can produce each other. This finding suggests that developmental pathways in human organs that regenerate quickly may be more flexible than previously appreciated.
Researchers at Penn's Perelman School of Medicine have made a breakthrough in treating the rare genetic disorder FOP, also known as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva. By using RNA interference to silence the damaged gene copy and leave the normal copy untouched, they restored cellular function caused by the FOP mutation.
Two Penn physicians propose incorporating narrative into evidence-based medicine to translate medical science to the public, combating disproven theories and fear-based appeals. They suggest using counternarratives and personal stories to unmask hidden work of researchers and guidelines committees.
A multidisciplinary research program aims to study the origins and pathogenesis of Barrett's esophagus, focusing on chronic inflammation and bile acids. The team will develop preventive and therapeutic treatments targeting stem/progenitor cells.
Researchers identify FMRP protein as key player in RNA editing, a process that regulates neural activity. Flies with mutated dFMR1 genes exhibit similar symptoms to humans with Fragile X, including memory and cognitive deficits.
Researchers have created melanocytes from mouse tail cells using inducible pluripotent stem cells, offering potential benefits for tissue transplantation, cancer treatment, and drug discovery. The lab-made cells can be studied to understand the development of conditions like vitiligo and melanoma.
Researchers discovered that insulin signaling converges with nutrient metabolism pathways to regulate lipid synthesis in the liver. The study suggests that multiple pathways are required for insulin-resistant livers to accumulate lipids.
A Penn team has identified a key connection between genetic risk factors for schizophrenia and altered sound processing in the brain. By studying mice with a mutated dysbindin gene, they found reduced activity in specific nerve cells that control fast brain activity, leading to symptoms of schizophrenia.
Cognitive therapy has been shown to improve the lives of severely impaired schizophrenic patients, reducing symptoms and promoting recovery. By helping patients set concrete goals and overcome defeatist beliefs, treatment encourages engagement in activity and motivation, leading to better functional outcomes and reduced hallucinations.
Researchers discovered that a previously unrecognized population of immune cells in the lungs orchestrate the body's repair response following flu infection. The activation of these cells is central to tissue repair at lung surfaces and could promote wound healing following other respiratory infections.
Researchers developed an internet-based multimedia informed consent resource to make it easier for cancer patients to understand and feel comfortable enrolling in clinical trials. The tool, accessed via the Internet, contains a video version of the traditional informed consent process and a PDF of the written materials, allowing patien...
The University of Pennsylvania has received a $12.5 million grant from the NIH to accelerate medical research into new therapies for inherited forms of blindness and lung cancer. Researchers aim to use gene therapy and microscopic imaging tools to develop innovative treatments, potentially improving millions of lives.
A Penn study found that hepatitis C patients are more likely to forget their medication over time, highlighting the need for interventions to improve adherence. The researchers suggest strategies such as pill box refills and reminders to help patients stay on track with treatment.
A team of researchers, led by Michael Levy, have traced the spread of Chagas disease in Peru using advanced mathematical methods and door-to-door surveys. They found that the parasite was introduced into the region around 20 years ago, with most infections occurring over the last decade.
A new report from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine calls for policies to prepare individuals and society for earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's. Safeguards are needed to protect those at high risk or with a pre-clinical diagnosis, including laws and policies to prevent stigma and discrimination.
Researchers found that mice without the HDAC3 enzyme experience rapid thickening of the heart muscle and heart failure on a high-fat diet. This molecular link has implications for people on Western diets and combating heart disease.
The Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders will provide funds for four cores to support collaborations between programs and help jump start new investigations. The Center aims to enhance research productivity of investigators in musculoskeletal tissue injury and repair.
Researchers found an association between long-term dietary patterns and the bacteria of the human gut, leading to two distinct enterotypes. These enterotypes were strongly associated with diets rich in meat and fat versus plant material.
A new visual test effectively diagnosed concussions in collegiate athletes, detecting impaired eye movements and rapid eye movements. The King-Devick test, a previously used dyslexia test, was validated as a reliable tool to aid medical professionals and trainers in determining which athletes need to come out of games.
Researchers found that declines in hearing ability accelerate gray matter atrophy in auditory areas of the brain, leading to increased listening effort for speech comprehension. Early detection and intervention can help prevent speech comprehension difficulties in older adults.
A new study found that combination immunotherapy nearly doubles five-year survival among patients with advanced Sezary Syndrome, a rare leukemic form of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The therapy approach comprised extracorporeal photopheresis and systemic immunostimulatory agents.
A team of international scientists identified the protein TSLP as a key regulator of multiple allergic diseases, including eczema, food allergies, and asthma. They found that TSLP elicits the maturation of distinct basophils that promote allergic inflammation.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have successfully treated advanced chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients with genetically engineered 'serial killer' T cells. The treatment involves removing and reprogramming patient cells to target specific proteins, resulting in sustained remissions and reduced side effects.
Researchers found that a diet of flaxseed protects lung tissues before and after exposure to radiation, reducing damage and improving survival rates in mice. Flaxseed's bioactive lignan component is believed to confer its antioxidant properties, making it an attractive radioprotector and mitigator.
Researchers found that NPM-ALK silences the tumor suppressor gene IL-2Rγ in cancer cells, leading to cell death. The discovery presents a potential new target for treating lymphoma and other types of cancer.
Researchers developed second-generation engineered T cells that successfully target and kill ovarian cancer cells in immune-deficient mice. The new technology overcomes limitations of first-generation approaches, showing improved persistence and survival signals for the engineered T cells.
Researchers have identified a crucial role for TCF-1 in regulating T-cell development, which could lead to improved treatments for immune-suppressed patients. Notch triggers the process of T-cell development and turns on expression of TCF-1, but not itself.
A recent study suggests that social media tools like Facebook and Twitter can improve disaster preparedness and response by harnessing crowd-sourcing technologies and electronic communications. The authors propose several examples of social media tactics to boost disaster preparedness, including mobile apps, buddy systems, and RSS feeds.
Researchers found abnormal tau tangles and amyloid-beta plaques in survivors years after a single TBI, suggesting a potential link between the two conditions. The study suggests that a single TBI may initiate long-term neurodegenerative processes, offering new insights into the development of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have identified a genetic basis for muscle endurance in animal study. The study found that mice lacking a specific gene exhibit increased endurance and fatigue resistance, similar to elite athletes.
Research from the University of Pennsylvania suggests that ovarian cancer cells secrete chemical signals suppressing the immune system while promoting blood vessel growth. This discovery could lead to more effective cancer treatments by combining therapies targeting angiogenesis with those blocking immunosuppressive T-reg cells.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have demonstrated direct conversion of a non-heart cell type into a heart cell by RNA transfer. This breakthrough approach, called Transcriptome Induced Phenotype Remodeling (TIPeR), offers potential for cell-based therapy for cardiovascular diseases and personalized scre...
A study found that veterans who have attempted suicide not only face an elevated risk of further attempts but also experience higher mortality rates from all causes. The research highlights the need for more intensive support and prevention efforts among at-risk veterans.
A University of Pennsylvania study reports that over 200,000 people are treated for cardiac arrest in US hospitals each year. The high rate underscores the need to identify preventable causes and implement effective resuscitation care strategies.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new gene vector, AAV8, that delivers genes to photoreceptor cells more efficiently and safely than a previously used vector, AAV2. The study demonstrates potential for treating eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers have identified three new genes associated with the risk of progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disease. The study found that genetic variations in EIF2AK3, STX6, and MOBP contribute to PSP risk, while also shedding light on the underlying cause of the disease.
A recent Penn study discovered that microbes open and pass through the initial cellular barrier in a programmed and efficient way, suggesting a normal physiological event. This finding supports a general mechanism for epithelial opening exploited by invasive pathogens.
A Penn study reveals that specialty physicians turn away two-thirds of children with public insurance, exacerbating existing healthcare disparities. Children with identical conditions and private insurance face significantly shorter wait times for appointments.
Researchers at University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that disrupting the circadian rhythms of fruit flies by feeding them at incorrect times led to reduced fertility. The study suggests a connection between diet and reproduction, highlighting the importance of timing in maintaining reproductive capacity.
Researchers found that recent hospitalizations significantly increase the likelihood of emergency department re-admissions, highlighting the importance of emergency departments in preventing readmissions. The study suggests that emergency physicians can play a crucial role in reducing re-admissions by taking care of patients and sendin...
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that even with private health insurance, newly diagnosed cancer patients often struggle to schedule an appointment with an oncologist. The authors suggest that patient navigator programs and staff training could help improve access to care.
New research finds that women with BRCA1/2 mutations who undergo prophylactic oophorectomy and take short-term HRT have a decreased risk of developing breast cancer. However, the procedure also increases the risk of early menopause and related quality-of-life issues.
Researchers found loss of PTEN and mutations in MEK2, CDK4, and CDKN2A to be associated with patient response to GSK436. This study provides new insights into personalized approaches to melanoma therapy.
A Penn-led study has identified common clinical activities where changes in practice could lead to higher quality care and better use of finite clinical resources. The 'Top 5' list for internal medicine includes practices such as not overimaging, not overscreening, and using generic statins.
Scientists discovered an epigenetic marker system to predict the fate of progenitor cells, which can be used to guide stem-cell differentiation. This finding may lead to new approaches in regenerative medicine therapies, such as generating liver and pancreas cells for transplantation.
Researchers analyzed patient data from over 44 million enrollees to find no link between ADHD medication use and increased risk of sudden death, heart attack, or stroke. The study suggests that ADHD drugs are safe from a cardiovascular perspective for children and adolescents.