A nationwide study of 895 US school districts found that opening schools for in-person learning did not increase COVID-19 case rates in surrounding communities, except in the South. The researchers controlled for local policies and community mobility data to analyze the impact of schools on community spread.
A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that children and adults have similar risks of becoming infected with SARS-CoV-2. However, a larger proportion of infected children do not show symptoms of COVID-19, highlighting the need for continued public health safety measures.
A team of scientists at the University of Utah has discovered a new type of interneuron in the mammalian retina called the Campana cell. The discovery marks a notable development for the field, as scientists work toward a better understanding of the central nervous system by identifying all classes of neurons and their connections.
Researchers are tracking the health of over 1,500 women who had COVID-19 during pregnancy and their children to study the long-term effects of the virus. They aim to understand why some people develop post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), also known as 'long COVID,' and others don't.
A team of scientists successfully created a form of artificial vision for a blind woman using a prosthesis hardwired into her brain. The Moran|Cortivis Prosthesis enabled Gómez to identify lines, shapes, and simple letters evoked by different patterns of stimulation.
A new AI-powered algorithm, GEM, has been developed to quickly identify genetic causes of serious disease in newborns. The technology leverages machine learning and natural language processing to analyze vast amounts of genomic data and clinical records, achieving an accuracy rate of 92% compared to existing tools.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation called retroCHMP3 that can block the replication of certain viruses like HIV and Ebola by disrupting their ability to exit an infected cell. This finding has the potential to lead to the development of new medical interventions against these deadly diseases.
Researchers have identified a molecule that slows cells' production of alpha-synuclein, a protein forming toxic aggregates in Parkinson's brains. The compound, A-443654, also reduces cell stress and may help degrade existing alpha-synuclein aggregates.
Researchers found a higher incidence of Valley Fever since the last report, with most cases occurring in southwestern Utah. The disease can resemble symptoms of the flu or COVID-19 and is caused by a fungus that becomes airborne when dust is disturbed.
The new MIC-Drop technology enables rapid evaluation of hundreds of genes in a single experiment, improving large-scale genetic studies. Researchers can identify essential genes for healthy heart development and function.
Researchers discovered that a protein called VDAC2 plays a key role in regulating calcium signaling within heart cells, which can help prevent chronic heart failure. Targeting this protein with drugs or therapeutic treatments may eventually alleviate heart failure.
Scientists found that HtrA1 protein levels decrease with age in individuals with chromosome 10 risk variants associated with age-related macular degeneration. The study identified HtrA1 as a protective factor, suggesting it maintains the integrity of the RPE-Bruch's membrane interface.
Research suggests that fungi in the healthy gut can have a beneficial effect on health, while invasive forms may contribute to inflammatory bowel disease. Vaccines targeting specific proteins may help restore balance to the microbiome.
A nationwide study found mRNA COVID-19 vaccines significantly reduce the risk of infection by up to 91% in fully vaccinated individuals. For those who develop breakthrough cases, vaccines also shorten symptom duration and severity.
A new study by University of Utah Health finds that people with lower back pain injury miss 11 more days of work in a year when only receiving non-recommended treatments compared to those treated according to guidelines. The study suggests that adherence to medical guidelines leads to faster resolution of back pain.
Mathematical models predict that COVID-19 severity will decrease as populations develop immunity, with mild cases becoming the norm. The research suggests adaptations in immune response over time rather than virus changes may drive this shift.
A study published in Nature reveals that early life is critical for setting up surveillance mechanisms to keep good bacteria in check. The immune system learns to recognize and distinguish between good and bad bacteria, which helps prevent chronic inflammation and inflammatory bowel disease.
Veterans who received temporary financial assistance for housing had fewer hospital visits and an average reduction in health care costs of $2,800 over two years compared to those who did not receive the benefit. This model could help better serve homeless Americans, including non-veterans.
Researchers at University of Utah Health found a strong association between preeclampsia and stroke risk in women who had the condition during pregnancy. Over an average follow-up period of 32 years, women with preeclampsia were 3.8 times more likely to have strokes compared to those without the condition.
Researchers found that Staufen1 accumulates in brains of patients with neurodegenerative disorders, disrupting normal cellular function. Lowering Staufen1 levels may improve pathology and rid cells of stress granules, a key finding for potential treatment approaches.
A new study found that COVID-19 significantly increases the risk of in-hospital death among patients with hemorrhagic stroke, leading to longer hospital stays and more medical complications. Patients from racial and ethnic minorities, as well as those with obesity and diabetes, were particularly vulnerable.
A new University of Utah Health study reveals that healthcare workers with caregiving responsibilities are most likely to contemplate leaving or reducing hours due to the pandemic's impact on their personal lives. The findings suggest that retaining highly trained doctors and nurses could be a significant challenge for healthcare systems.
Researchers discovered that cone snails produce small chemicals mimicking worm pheromones to trigger sexual activity in marine worms. In laboratory experiments, these compounds sparked mating behavior in female and male fire worms, making it easier to lure them out of hiding.
Researchers found that an experimental treatment converted cells to generate insulin, reducing diabetic symptoms and increasing insulin cell mass. The treatment showed promise for regenerating insulin-producing capacity and restoring normal blood glucose balance.
Synthesized very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) have been shown to increase lipid levels in the retina and improve visual function in both normal and defective ELOVL4 mice. The study opens up a new area of research, raising questions about oral administration, blood transport, and selective targeting to the retina.
Researchers at University of Utah Health found hormonal IUDs comparable to copper IUDs for emergency contraception, offering a safe alternative to current options. The study also suggests that hormonal IUDs can provide highly effective contraception for up to seven years, reducing the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.
A recent study by University of Utah Health researchers has identified a genetic collaborator that influences the severity of the rare disease NGLY1. The gene NKCC1 moderates disease severity, with its interaction with NGLY1 affecting various bodily functions, including tear production and fluid balance.
A new study finds that more than half of doctors, nurses, and emergency responders involved in COVID-19 care are at risk for one or more mental health problems. The researchers found a comparable risk to rates observed during natural disasters, highlighting the need for evidence-based interventions.
Researchers discovered massive glutamate surges in brain, sparking spreading depolarizations, a precursor to migraine with aura. The study suggests an imbalance between glutamate release and reuptake may contribute to neurologic diseases, including stroke.
Swollen neurons are less likely to exhibit overactivity associated with long-term TBI complications. Researchers propose a more nuanced approach to managing cerebral swelling, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients with traumatic brain injuries.
Researchers report a promising emerging treatment that combines medications with temporary use of an artificial heart pump to reverse structural damage in the heart. In a multicenter study, 40 advanced heart failure patients were treated with this protocol, resulting in high rates of LVAD removal and improved cardiovascular health.
Researchers recreated HIV infection steps in a test tube, identifying essential components for replication. The study provides an unprecedented view of the virus and its role in infection, shedding light on potential targets for improved treatments.
A new study found that patients with sciatica who received four weeks of physical therapy experienced less disability in the year following their initial doctor's visit compared to those who followed a wait-and-see approach. Physical therapy significantly improved patient outcomes, including reduced pain and increased activity levels.
The pathoconnectome is a map of how eye disease alters retinal circuitry, offering insights into other neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and epilepsy. The research findings provide fundamental rules on how neural networks are rewired by disease, paving the way for new therapies.
A study of over 4,000 tweets reveals that only a small percentage of Twitter users use JUUL to stop smoking or improve their health. Most tweets about JUUL are positive and discuss first-person usage or the brand's products.
A study by University of Utah Health researchers found that Black essential workers are disproportionately affected by COVID-19 due to their occupations, which increase their risk of exposure to the virus. This disparity is attributed to racial disparities in job classifications and access to healthcare resources.
Scientists developed an injectable HIV drug that blocks infection and provides extended viral suppression with lower doses and reduced side effects. The drug, CPT31, has great potential to help patients with drug resistance and those who would benefit from a longer-acting treatment option.
A new study by ARUP Laboratories and University of Utah Health found that self-collected saliva and deep nasal swabs are equally effective in detecting SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. This discovery has important implications for patients and providers, offering a less invasive testing option.
Research found that COVID-19 causes platelets to become hyperactive, forming dangerous blood clots that can lead to cardiovascular problems. Understanding the underlying cause may lead to treatments to prevent this from happening in patients.
A study by University of Utah Health and PEEL Therapeutics found that an overactive NET immune response may lead to increased blood clotting, disease severity, and death from COVID-19. A naturally occurring protein, nNIF, quiets this hyperactive response, potentially opening new avenues for treatment.
A study by University of Utah Health found that genetic mutations accumulate at an accelerating rate during puberty, affecting lifespan and fertility. Young adults with slower rates of mutation accumulation lived about five years longer than those with faster rates.
Researchers created a mini-insulin molecule that combines human insulin's potency with the fast-acting potential of cone snail venom, potentially improving blood sugar control. The hybrid insulin has the same potency as human insulin but acts faster, making it a prime candidate for new diabetes treatments.
A study found that electronic health records (EHRs) commonly used in hospitals nationwide failed to detect up to one in three potentially harmful drug interactions and other medication errors. Despite improvements over the past decade, EHR systems consistently failed to detect errors that could injure or kill patients.
Antibody tests are good enough to monitor COVID-19 spread and guide policy decisions, but understanding test characteristics is crucial for accurate results. By fine-tuning existing tests, policymakers can make informed decisions about interventions and population protection.
A new predictor for brain cancer patients' life expectancy has been developed using a genome-wide pattern of DNA copy numbers. The pattern identifies patients who survive for a median of three years, three times longer than those without it.
Researchers analyzed data from Chinese men who recently had COVID-19 and found no evidence of the virus in semen or testes. However, the study's limitations mean it cannot fully rule out the possibility of sexual transmission.
The University of Utah has awarded seed grants to 56 cross-campus projects exploring COVID-19's impact on domestic violence and mental health. These projects will develop innovative strategies to prevent, treat, and mitigate the long-term effects of physical isolation.
A new study suggests that local doctors in rural areas can safely and effectively care for patients with left ventricular assist devices, reducing travel burdens and improving survival rates. Shared medical care eliminates the need for extensive travel, eases financial and emotional strains on patients.
A University of Utah Health study found that poor communications in 22 Utah communities hinder efforts to connect those in need with food resources. The researchers identified four clusters of communities: Food Secure, Food Insecure, Information Deserts, and Information Uncertain.
A new study of over 88,000 veterans with pneumonia found that broad-spectrum antibiotics did not improve outcomes and may even increase the risk of death. The researchers suggest sticking to standard antibiotic treatments for a couple of days before considering anti-MRSA therapy.