Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Motor learning: Lining up our sights

Neurologists investigate the significance of the vestibular system in directing gaze, finding that patients with vestibular or cerebellar dysfunction have difficulty controlling eye movements. The study suggests that rehabilitation training based on active head movements can enhance gaze shift control and learning to find endpoints.

New, noninvasive, stool-based colorectal cancer screening test

A new stool-based screening test, Cologuard, detected 92% of colorectal cancer and 42% of advanced pre-cancerous lesions, outperforming a commercial occult blood fecal immunochemical test. The non-invasive test allows patients to collect samples at home, increasing the potential for higher cancer screening rates.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 19, 2014

Mount Sinai study points to new biological mechanisms, treatment paradigm for kidney disease

Researchers discovered abnormal molecular signaling pathways that promote chronic kidney disease progression, targeting endothelial mitochondrial oxidative stress and glomerular filtration barrier. New therapeutic targets may prevent or reverse disease, providing hope for millions of Americans affected by kidney disease.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMar 3, 2014

Eliminating bacteria, changing lifestyle could lower risk in people genetically susceptible to colorectal cancer

A study led by Dr. Sergio A. Lira found that removing gut bacteria reduced polyp formation and inflammation in mice, potentially reducing colorectal cancer risk. The researchers propose a new approach to understanding the interplay between genetic mutations, gut bacteria, and inflammation.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMar 3, 2014

Hypnosis therapy shown to decrease fatigue levels in breast cancer patients

A randomized controlled trial found that cognitive behavioral therapy plus hypnosis significantly reduced fatigue in breast cancer patients during and after radiotherapy. The treatment group had less fatigue than 79% of control group patients at the end of radiotherapy, with benefits persisting for up to six months.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateFeb 20, 2014

Medicaid expansion improves health care services for prison population

A nationwide survey of state prison administrators found that Medicaid enrollment increased in preparation for release, improving access to basic health services. Most systems provided assistance with reenrollment, but termination policies were common, making it challenging for prisoners to access care upon release.

SourceLifespan·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJan 16, 2014

'Barcode' profiling enables analysis of hundreds of tumor marker proteins at once

Researchers have developed a novel DNA-barcoded antibody sensing approach to analyze hundreds of cancer-related protein markers from miniscule patient samples. This technology enables comprehensive analysis of protein expression patterns in single cells, revealing significant differences between tumors and predicting treatment response.

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 15, 2014

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai garners $6 million NIH grant for concussion research

The grant aims to build a more precise understanding of chronic traumatic encephalopathy and traumatic brain injury in civilians over age 45. Investigators will use extensive resources from an ongoing study of brain aging and conduct analyses of neuropsychology, neuroradiology, neurological, geriatric, and epidemiological aspects.

International study finds lower-dose IUDs are safe and effective

A recent international study found two lower-dose intrauterine contraceptive systems to be highly effective and well-tolerated over a three-year period. The devices were easier to use in women who had not delivered a child or had delivered by cesarean section, making them a suitable alternative for women seeking reduced hormone exposure.

SourceLA BioMed·JournalObstetrics and Gynecology·DateDec 5, 2013

Leicester scientists map structure of key complex in the immune system

Researchers have mapped the structure of complement component C1, a protein responsible for spotting foreign agents and triggering the immune response. The study reveals how the complex is assembled from its constituent proteins, shedding light on the immune system's prevention of disease and potential therapeutic applications.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2013

Mount Sinai finds value and limitations of patient assistance programs for women with breast cancer

A study by researchers from the Mount Sinai Hospital found that nearly 80% of women who contacted a patient assistance program had their needs met, compared to just 35% of those who did not. Most patients utilized programs for information about adjuvant therapies, psychosocial support, and overcoming practical/financial obstacles.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateOct 22, 2013

To sleep, perchance to clean

A recent study published in Science shows that the brain's unique glymphatic system, responsible for removing waste, is highly active during sleep. This process clears away toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease, suggesting a vital function of sleep in maintaining brain health.